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Content snapshot
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Violence
Some
Sexual assault is the central event; its aftermath includes self-destructive behavior; not graphically depicted but clearly present
Language
Some
Moderate adult language; authentic teen voice
Sexual Content
Some
The rape and Eden's subsequent sexual choices as coping mechanisms are part of the narrative
Substance Use
Some
Alcohol and drug use as coping mechanisms throughout Eden's high school years
Emotional Intensity
Very heavy
Extreme psychological trauma and its four-year aftermath; the book does not soften the damage of sexual assault or offer easy healing
What this book is about
Eden McCrorey is raped by her brother's best friend the night before eighth grade. Amber Smith's YA novel follows Eden through four years of high school as she tries to navigate the aftermath—the silence, the anger, the self-destruction, and eventually, the possibility of healing.
Notes for sensitive readers
Reader-flagged moments and themes that may affect your experience.
Rape by a trusted person is the central event
Self-destructive coping mechanisms throughout
For mature readers—handles sexual assault honestly and without resolution for years
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