Book Reviews by Lynn

This is a fascinating story of a woman suffering with depression. I struggled to put this book down!Amber is a teenager who has had several changes in her life. Not only is her father not her father, but moving to a new home town and trying to make new friends has her feeling like her life is spiralling out of control. Her only respite from the emotional pain seems to come from the physical pain of cutting. I loved Amber's character. Having one set back after the other is enough to drive anyone into depression. I just wish that she didn't feel the urge to self-harm.This is an emotionally laden story that brings into focus the effects of depression. Many people feel depressed at one time or another. However, sometimes the emotional pain is too much for one person, and they resort to diversionary tactics to try to make themselves feel better. Some do extreme sports, others overeat and a few self-harm. Amber is one of those who feels the release of endorphins after she cuts. Luckily, I have never had depression so bad that I have had to go to such extremes. I've had mild depression (who hasn't?), but I completely empathised with Amber. What surprised me is that no-one seemed to suspect that there was anything wrong. I suppose that people only see what they want to see. Just like eating disorders, severe depression can lead to unhealthy and dangerous behaviour. If undiagnosed, those suffering depression can spiral down to suicidal tendencies. I have had a few people I know take their lives due to depression. I felt completely helpless, as I had moved thousands of miles away, and had not spoken to them for a while so had no inkling at all.If you or someone you know is prone to depression, I seriously suggest that medical advice be sought as soon as possible. There are medicines and support groups that may be able to help. I am now looking forward to reading the next book in the series.Raebeth McGee has written a powerful story that is a MUST READ. Her descriptive words, and the flow of the story, carried me on a rollercoaster of emotions. I shed more than a few tears, so a tissue may come in handy! I highly recommend this book to the older YA age range (15+) and adults alike. - Lynn Worton