Review: Accurate portrayal of an abuse victim.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 02 11, 2014
I read this book before I read any other reviews, and I'm glad.  I'm a person who always reads every negative review, but I have to say that these reviewers missed the mark.***spoilers***Yes, teenage girls are abused by father figures in their lives.  Yes, they tell no one because they feel that no one will believe them.  Yes, they jump into sexual relationships with boys who seem to show them love.  Yes, they gravitate toward people who will also abuse them.  Yes, the victims feel guilty--like it was their fault and they deserve what's happened to them.The main character, Cassidy, manages to find her way through all the garbage thrown at her to come away stronger and more aware of who she is in the end.  For many victims this never happens or only happens through years of therapy.  Cassidy was lucky enough to have a loving support system, even though she didn't realize it until too late to save herself.***end spoilers***Lauren Dodd gives us a glimpse of what abuse victims go through and the self-destructive behaviors that accompany the feelings of worthlessness.  These things are happening to children and teenagers and even adult every single day all across the globe.  This is real.  This book also shows that somewhere there is someone who will believe you and support you, you just have to trust enough to let them.