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Content snapshot
Flag an inaccuracy →What's in this book, at a glance — five things readers want to know before they start.
Violence
A lot
Graphic domestic violence including beatings; the abuse is depicted with full emotional and physical weight
Language
Some
Moderate language appropriate for the subject matter
Sexual Content
Barely any
Brief adult references
Substance Use
None
No substance use
Emotional Intensity
A lot
Profoundly heavy psychological content around domestic abuse, the psychology of staying, and the terror of leaving
What this book is about
Anna Quindlen's powerful domestic violence novel is both deeply sad and ultimately hopeful. Violence is significant as the husband's abuse is depicted with unflinching honesty. Psychological content around the cycle of abuse is heavy. Adult readers.
Notes for sensitive readers
Reader-flagged moments and themes that may affect your experience.
Graphic domestic violence
Cycle of abuse
Psychological trauma
Hiding from abuser
Reader Verification
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