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Hijacked
Suicide.
Depression.
Self-harm.
Anxiety.
All things I had become intimate with because Arya produced it within me. Two suicide attempts by 17, I was slowly being destroyed by her. My entire life a struggle for survival.
Just out of the psych ward for the second time in my life, Hunter Daniels befriends me. He offers me comfort, understanding, and acceptance.He makes me feel as if it's ok to be me, crazy or not.
It's not long before I fall for him. As soon as I do, I discover his secret--the real reason he wanted to be my friend.
His secret threatens to destroy me and everything I'd worked for to be as stable as possible. Arya takes advantage of my vulnerability and strikes hard and fast. My life spirals farther out of control than it ever has before.
Depression.
Self-harm.
Anxiety.
All things I had become intimate with because Arya produced it within me. Two suicide attempts by 17, I was slowly being destroyed by her. My entire life a struggle for survival.
Just out of the psych ward for the second time in my life, Hunter Daniels befriends me. He offers me comfort, understanding, and acceptance.He makes me feel as if it's ok to be me, crazy or not.
It's not long before I fall for him. As soon as I do, I discover his secret--the real reason he wanted to be my friend.
His secret threatens to destroy me and everything I'd worked for to be as stable as possible. Arya takes advantage of my vulnerability and strikes hard and fast. My life spirals farther out of control than it ever has before.
Kindle Edition
Published April 19, 2023
30 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
July 15, 2023
I was so lucky to receive a free, pre release copy from the author. And when I tell you how good this book is. I am already planning a re-read!
The book is input downable!
As someone who’s struggled with mental health and attempts I connected to this book!
Fantastic read!
The book is input downable!
As someone who’s struggled with mental health and attempts I connected to this book!
Fantastic read!
August 24, 2023
This is a heavy yet POWERFUL story regarding mental illness. M.C. Stokes did brilliant in depicting the struggles with mental health and the daily battle one can face to *choose* life. This story is raw, real and emotionally invoking. Please make sure you are okay before reading this book and read any trigger warnings.
Mental illness does not discriminate.
Mental illness does not discriminate.
September 22, 2023
First and foremost. This book is heavy! Make sure you read the trigger warnings. As someone who struggles with mental health, this book was literally un-put-down-able. I read the entire thing today. I was lucky enough to receive this book as an ARC and it was just amazing.
Feeling Sam’s struggles throughout the book, somewhat helped me in my own way. I’ve had anxiety and depression for a while now, but within the last 5 or so years was diagnosed similarly to Sam! It was so relatable and at times i felt like i was Sam. This book sucked me in completely!
Feeling Sam’s struggles throughout the book, somewhat helped me in my own way. I’ve had anxiety and depression for a while now, but within the last 5 or so years was diagnosed similarly to Sam! It was so relatable and at times i felt like i was Sam. This book sucked me in completely!
September 17, 2023
I was privileged enough to receive an ARC of this book and I just have to say this book is beautiful in every way. It talks about so many different mental health subjects that do not get talked about enough. The big things and even the smaller things like not really knowing how to talk to someone that’s struggling/ not knowing how to ask for help. I struggle with mental health issues and most of my family does too, so being able to read this book and it shed light on things I didn’t even understand within myself was truly a gift. I feel like I understand myself and others so much more now. This book is filled with topics that can be very triggering to read through so if you choose to read this book despite that, allow yourself to take breaks when needed, let out tears, and talk to someone about what you’re thinking. As Sam learned, you are not alone and even if you think no one understands, I’m sure someone could if you opened up and give them the chance.
November 7, 2024
I work in mental health and learned some new things from this book, most notably the value in relationships in regards to mental health recovery, especially when most people who experience a mental illness are very stigmatized.
It seemed that a lot of events happened between the last chapter and the epilogue and that much more character expansion and exploration of bipolar could have occurred before this story was wrapped up with a quick ending. I also found the beginning of the book quite strong though it could have been longer while the middle was overly long.
It seemed that a lot of events happened between the last chapter and the epilogue and that much more character expansion and exploration of bipolar could have occurred before this story was wrapped up with a quick ending. I also found the beginning of the book quite strong though it could have been longer while the middle was overly long.
October 10, 2023
This book got me out of a reading slump. I'm normally not a YA reader, but this could easily apply to any age group, anyone struggling with their mental health.
There were several grammatical errors throughout, simple things that should have been caught by a pass through Word. The dialogue was also a little awkward sometimes, but it is high school, so I can look past that. Hunter was a little bit unbelievable, even with his mom's history. Teenage boys aren't usually that perceptive. Usually, I'm turned off by several grammatical errors, but this was such an accurate portrayal of suicidal ideation and self harm, I definitely can overlook that.
From page 1, it was like I was reading about myself. I've struggled with depression for most of my life. I started cutting at 13 and was hospitalized at 16. To this day, I am dealing with a plethora of mental illness diagnoses. I've always wanted an honest book about these things, and this is very close to that. It perfectly represents suicidal ideation, why self harming is a release, intrusive thoughts, panic attacks, and, of course depression.
I really only had 1 issue with the mental illness portrayal: considering all of Sam's symptoms from age 10 or so and all throughout the book up to the bipolar diagnosis, coupled with the presence of Arya and her physical description and personality, it sounds like disassociative identity disorder, which can commonly be mistaken for bipolar. Although I'm by no means a medical professional, I just have an interest in psychology and have done a lot of research over the years. It is possible, if the story were to continue, that the bipolar diagnosis would be determined to be wrong, especially since it is very common for AFAB people to be mistakenly diagnosed with bipolar disorder. But that gets into my own speculation. But DID would explain Arya, which the book never touched on. It's one thing to have an inner monologue, it's something else entirely to see and hear another person who is distinctly not you and ascribe them a personality.
I was pleasantly surprised by the ending, I was concerned it was going to end tragically there for a minute. Not only is it a HEA ending, but I like how it showed that it is possible to overcome your illness and live a fulfilling life.
I was very pleased with this book and highly recommend it to anyone who has ever struggled with depression or self harm.
There were several grammatical errors throughout, simple things that should have been caught by a pass through Word. The dialogue was also a little awkward sometimes, but it is high school, so I can look past that. Hunter was a little bit unbelievable, even with his mom's history. Teenage boys aren't usually that perceptive. Usually, I'm turned off by several grammatical errors, but this was such an accurate portrayal of suicidal ideation and self harm, I definitely can overlook that.
From page 1, it was like I was reading about myself. I've struggled with depression for most of my life. I started cutting at 13 and was hospitalized at 16. To this day, I am dealing with a plethora of mental illness diagnoses. I've always wanted an honest book about these things, and this is very close to that. It perfectly represents suicidal ideation, why self harming is a release, intrusive thoughts, panic attacks, and, of course depression.
I really only had 1 issue with the mental illness portrayal: considering all of Sam's symptoms from age 10 or so and all throughout the book up to the bipolar diagnosis, coupled with the presence of Arya and her physical description and personality, it sounds like disassociative identity disorder, which can commonly be mistaken for bipolar. Although I'm by no means a medical professional, I just have an interest in psychology and have done a lot of research over the years. It is possible, if the story were to continue, that the bipolar diagnosis would be determined to be wrong, especially since it is very common for AFAB people to be mistakenly diagnosed with bipolar disorder. But that gets into my own speculation. But DID would explain Arya, which the book never touched on. It's one thing to have an inner monologue, it's something else entirely to see and hear another person who is distinctly not you and ascribe them a personality.
I was pleasantly surprised by the ending, I was concerned it was going to end tragically there for a minute. Not only is it a HEA ending, but I like how it showed that it is possible to overcome your illness and live a fulfilling life.
I was very pleased with this book and highly recommend it to anyone who has ever struggled with depression or self harm.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2023
I try to read books that are out of my comfort zone and ideally by an Indie Author, this fits that bill. I knew this would be a challenging read given the content matter, but this was very much for the right reasons. This type of mental health issue is outside of my experience, as is the inner mindset of a teenage girl, but I felt the book helped me understand that perspective and so broadened my horizons. The book is relatively simply written, flowing very nicely and I finished it in one long afternoon. The description of self harm and attempted suicide is a hard thing to read but I think are topics that are too often brushed under the carpet. This book helps illuminate this difficult topic and I feel a little better able to understand these issues. I would definitely recommend being in the right headspace to read and digest this novel, but it is well worth your time in doing so!
September 15, 2023
Wow. I don’t know that I can come up with the right words. I’ve battled depression and self harm for 23 years and was finally diagnosed with bipolar disorder 4 years ago when I had a bad manic attack after a sudden death and the divorce occurred four years ago. I also work in children’s mental health. This was a wonderfully done work of art. You showed the nitty gritty without glamorizing or shaming. The internal battle with the inner monologue that at times never seems to go away was spot on.
I recommend checking trigger warnings and making sure you are comfortable with the topics that take place before diving in.
I recommend checking trigger warnings and making sure you are comfortable with the topics that take place before diving in.
September 19, 2023
Wow what a beautifully written book. This book touched me in so many different ways and was a beautiful book to help understand and gain better knowledge of mental health needs and matters. From the confusion in Sam, the confusion in everyone on knowledge around her mental health and attempts and even her mothers fear and emotions towards the whole situation.
The book got me through every emotion possible but a lot of tears were shed but smiles were also shown a few times! The amount of highlights/notes I’ve taken from this book is probably the most in any book I’ve ever read.
Everyone needs their own Hunter in their life.
The book got me through every emotion possible but a lot of tears were shed but smiles were also shown a few times! The amount of highlights/notes I’ve taken from this book is probably the most in any book I’ve ever read.
Everyone needs their own Hunter in their life.
September 22, 2023
Spoilers? Maybe?
Please check trigger warning before reading. This book is heavy for those who struggle with mental illness.
I hesitate to say I love this book because it really is such dark story. However, I could not put it down! The story follows a young girl through her daily battle with depression. So many of the thoughts Sam had were thoughts many people have. It's amazing to see the support she receives. I appreciate how Sam's battle wasn't fluffed up or "fade to black" her attempts at her life were detailed as were her struggles afterwards. I thought naming Sam's intrusive thoughts as a separate person or entity than herself was a creative choice. This allowed the reader to see that although Sam was having those thoughts and feelings they were caused by her illness. Too often they can be labelled as one & the same.
Please check trigger warning before reading. This book is heavy for those who struggle with mental illness.
I hesitate to say I love this book because it really is such dark story. However, I could not put it down! The story follows a young girl through her daily battle with depression. So many of the thoughts Sam had were thoughts many people have. It's amazing to see the support she receives. I appreciate how Sam's battle wasn't fluffed up or "fade to black" her attempts at her life were detailed as were her struggles afterwards. I thought naming Sam's intrusive thoughts as a separate person or entity than herself was a creative choice. This allowed the reader to see that although Sam was having those thoughts and feelings they were caused by her illness. Too often they can be labelled as one & the same.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2023
**Make sure to read TW**
Wow! What a great read! Yes, it's HEAVY.. but it's also AMAZING! Having been through something similar in my life, I related to Sam more than I have ever related to a character! It was great to see that even with mental health issues, you can have a "normal" life & a happily ever after! I read this book from start to finish without stopping & will definitely be reading again... & again!!
Wow! What a great read! Yes, it's HEAVY.. but it's also AMAZING! Having been through something similar in my life, I related to Sam more than I have ever related to a character! It was great to see that even with mental health issues, you can have a "normal" life & a happily ever after! I read this book from start to finish without stopping & will definitely be reading again... & again!!
September 24, 2023
I ate this book up within 24 hours! This is a heavy read so proceed with caution on the trigger warnings. But it’s a wonderful read that deals with mental illness and how it not only affects the person, but everyone around them.
It did have a few grammar errors (spelling or wording that didn’t make sense) so that’s the only reason why I deducted a star. Other than that, it was a great read and I definitely recommend it!
It did have a few grammar errors (spelling or wording that didn’t make sense) so that’s the only reason why I deducted a star. Other than that, it was a great read and I definitely recommend it!
September 18, 2023
Pleas check trigger warnings!
This book, just wow. It was raw, real, and really put into perspective living with mental illness, especially in a time where there was so much stigma surrounding it, and how it has evolved today. Beautifully written, I felt present in Sam’s daily struggles. Very well done!
This book, just wow. It was raw, real, and really put into perspective living with mental illness, especially in a time where there was so much stigma surrounding it, and how it has evolved today. Beautifully written, I felt present in Sam’s daily struggles. Very well done!
February 1, 2025
I'm just speechless, i haven't had a book making me feel so seen and so understood in forever, I truly suggest reading this book if you suffer from depression, anxiety or any mental illness that often doesn't make you feel seen. Honestly I felt like i was reading my own thoughts on some pages, i feel it healed something in me, like I'm not alone with these self sabotaging thoughts ❤️
October 12, 2023
Amazing real life story told with fictional characters. So true to real life. So relatable to anyone who has experienced this personally or professionally. Heart breaking and heart warming story of surviving with demon inside.
July 28, 2023
This was a deep and powerful read. I think the way that the author wrote this from Sam's pov was riveting and provided the most beautiful way of connecting with Sam and all that she experiences. And not just what she experiences, but how others experience her and how they're affected as well. Lots of this was hard to stomach, because at times it was so relatable, but I'm so glad to have read it. So glad to see this out there. Hunter and Nicole were great to get to know too, and it was the highlight for my hope for Sam's journey!
August 1, 2023
As someone who struggles with their mental health, this book is so relatable. You follow Sam and her narration through getting help and they way her brain works. I really enjoyed this read.
August 30, 2023
I loved the love story, but it was difficult reading because I to have felt her experiences.....
September 28, 2023
Very good book! Paints a true picture of mental health. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
August 19, 2023
Very beautiful book!! I was hesitant to read this book because it was classified as a romance and I am not into "spice." However this book was much more than a romance and I thought the romance in the book was sweet. I felt like Sam was me as I read. I suffer a lot of symptoms she went through. However I found my diagnosis differed from hers by the end of the book. This book left me wanting more. I wanted another book like this one because it was so profound.i would recommend this book to anyone. Especially people who don't understand mental health.
📣🔴SPOILERS 🔴📣
I have similar ideations as Sam and struggle with self harm like her. It has been years since I had a relapse. However when I read this book it brought back the memories and the relief I got from self harm. I would caution people of that. However I still believe that everyone should read this book.
📣🔴SPOILERS 🔴📣
I have similar ideations as Sam and struggle with self harm like her. It has been years since I had a relapse. However when I read this book it brought back the memories and the relief I got from self harm. I would caution people of that. However I still believe that everyone should read this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2023
I dont think words could honestly give this book the rating it deserves.
Please check your trigger warnings as this book is heavily mental health and can be a very difficult read.
The information around everything is spot on and honestly if you want to support someone with mental health disorders I'd say this book gives the most amazing insight.
Sam's world isn't just the normal everyday. Sam's day involves each day at a time. Her living is her survival. Hunter comes into Sam's life and she slowly comes round to communication as Hunter learns the best and most effective way to help Sam.
The Epilogue had me in tears, Happy tears but wow.
This book touched me so much.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Please check your trigger warnings as this book is heavily mental health and can be a very difficult read.
The information around everything is spot on and honestly if you want to support someone with mental health disorders I'd say this book gives the most amazing insight.
Sam's world isn't just the normal everyday. Sam's day involves each day at a time. Her living is her survival. Hunter comes into Sam's life and she slowly comes round to communication as Hunter learns the best and most effective way to help Sam.
The Epilogue had me in tears, Happy tears but wow.
This book touched me so much.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 30, 2023
This book is the first time I have ever reviewed something, so I apologize if it doesn’t provide the information that one usually looks for in a review. While I was provided a promotional copy of the book by the author in exchange for a review, it was I who initiated the request as the premise sounded like something that would interest me. Little did I know that I would relate to it in ways that I couldn’t have imagined.
First off, I want to mention that this is a difficult story to read, especially if you suffer from mental illness of any sort. I don’t want to give away too many spoilers, but the story follows a teenage girl named Sam as she fights through the battle of mental health. We get to see the highs and the lows throughout the story, but instead of just glazing over the extremely difficult parts, the author has decided to include them. These parts can be triggering to some, so practice caution if you choose to read it.
I started to read this story at a very low point recently. Some would question why I chose a book of this nature to read when the very subject matter was something that I was going through – hell, even I questioned it. I have suffered from depression and anxiety for the majority of my life. Some of the events and actions in this book lined up very closely with events and actions in my own life. I will admit that, while reading, I wondered if I was strong enough to continue reading it. It brought about memories from my past and feelings that I thought I had long buried. Just as I would get to a point where I started to feel like I needed a break, there would be a reprieve from the onslaught that Sam was going through. I’m not sure if this was intentionally done by the author or if it was a complete coincidence, but it helped as it gave me a moment to pause and reflect on the positive instead of spiraling into the negative and staying there.
All in all, the story was amazingly written and I’m glad I took the time to experience it. The pacing never seemed to go too fast or too slow. I’m giving it 5 stars because the subject matter is difficult and given that I have some insight into the main character that was provided by the author, I commend her for simply being able to write it. There were a few spelling and grammatical errors, but they were extremely minimal and did not distract from the overall story. (Likely things that were simply missed during the editing process – it happens! :D)
First off, I want to mention that this is a difficult story to read, especially if you suffer from mental illness of any sort. I don’t want to give away too many spoilers, but the story follows a teenage girl named Sam as she fights through the battle of mental health. We get to see the highs and the lows throughout the story, but instead of just glazing over the extremely difficult parts, the author has decided to include them. These parts can be triggering to some, so practice caution if you choose to read it.
I started to read this story at a very low point recently. Some would question why I chose a book of this nature to read when the very subject matter was something that I was going through – hell, even I questioned it. I have suffered from depression and anxiety for the majority of my life. Some of the events and actions in this book lined up very closely with events and actions in my own life. I will admit that, while reading, I wondered if I was strong enough to continue reading it. It brought about memories from my past and feelings that I thought I had long buried. Just as I would get to a point where I started to feel like I needed a break, there would be a reprieve from the onslaught that Sam was going through. I’m not sure if this was intentionally done by the author or if it was a complete coincidence, but it helped as it gave me a moment to pause and reflect on the positive instead of spiraling into the negative and staying there.
All in all, the story was amazingly written and I’m glad I took the time to experience it. The pacing never seemed to go too fast or too slow. I’m giving it 5 stars because the subject matter is difficult and given that I have some insight into the main character that was provided by the author, I commend her for simply being able to write it. There were a few spelling and grammatical errors, but they were extremely minimal and did not distract from the overall story. (Likely things that were simply missed during the editing process – it happens! :D)
April 26, 2025
Some stories don’t just echo in your mind — they rip straight through your soul.
As a widow who lost her husband, a soldier, to suicide, reading Sam's battle with Arya gave me a heartbreaking glimpse into the war my late husband must have been fighting silently.
The Journal of Sam and Arya isn't just a story; it’s an unfiltered window into a kind of suffering that most people never see, and too many never survive.
M.C. Stokes captured the invisible, relentless assault of depression with such brutal honesty that at times it hurt to breathe — but that’s exactly why it matters.
It was a difficult read for me — deeply personal in ways I didn’t expect — but it was also strangely comforting.
Because finally, someone dared to go there.
Finally, someone shared the depths most are too afraid to speak about.
I’m grateful M.C. Stokes didn’t sugarcoat it.
Because real battles don’t come with pretty endings.
And sometimes understanding, even a small piece, helps you carry the loss with a little less silence.
Arya isn’t just a fictional creation. She is the darkness.
The lies depression whispers.
The relentless pull of self-destruction that no amount of love, strength, or "positive thinking" can simply erase.
Watching Sam fight every day — sometimes losing ground but still surviving — was achingly true to what survival really looks like when you're living inside that kind of storm.
The romance subplot didn’t feel forced. It felt necessary — a reminder that even in the deepest pain, the human heart keeps looking for light. Sometimes messy, sometimes broken, but still reaching.
This book isn't for the faint of heart.
It's for the ones who've loved someone through their darkest hours.
It's for those who know that survival isn't always clean or heroic — sometimes it’s just getting through one more impossible day.
Thank you, M.C. Stokes, for not sanitizing the truth.
Thank you for making space for those of us still carrying our battles quietly, every single day.
April 3, 2024
CW/TW - Depression, Su!cide, Anxiety, Self-H@rm, Mania
Where to start with this.. This book, the gloves come off from page 1! It is very clear that the author has intimate knowledge of the contents in this book. I will say this up front; if you have unstable mental health, read this book in doses, but READ IT!!
There is something about the main character that grips you, and you want her to win at all costs. The personification of mental illness and references to it being a separate entity is such a beautiful way to express those struggles. The subject matter is an integral part of the overall story and weaves your emotions through the gambit. I had to take breaks between reading sections of the book because my own struggles were jumping forward. However, I'm grateful this book exists in the YA genre.
The relationships in relation to the main characters' struggle are spot on. The thought processes that Sam has are very similar to thoughts I myself have struggled to overcome. This book is a punch to the solar plexus at times and makes you want to cry along with Sam.
Do not pass this book up if you have children, even if you yourself don't struggle with mental health. The conversations that you can have regarding the material could be invaluable to helping your child or even your children's friends. Teaching and learning about mental health issues will give your children a way to connect with friends or family who do struggle!
Debating on getting the physical version of this book just to be able to share it out to friends of pre-teens/teenagers.
Such a gripping read and well worth it!!
Where to start with this.. This book, the gloves come off from page 1! It is very clear that the author has intimate knowledge of the contents in this book. I will say this up front; if you have unstable mental health, read this book in doses, but READ IT!!
There is something about the main character that grips you, and you want her to win at all costs. The personification of mental illness and references to it being a separate entity is such a beautiful way to express those struggles. The subject matter is an integral part of the overall story and weaves your emotions through the gambit. I had to take breaks between reading sections of the book because my own struggles were jumping forward. However, I'm grateful this book exists in the YA genre.
The relationships in relation to the main characters' struggle are spot on. The thought processes that Sam has are very similar to thoughts I myself have struggled to overcome. This book is a punch to the solar plexus at times and makes you want to cry along with Sam.
Do not pass this book up if you have children, even if you yourself don't struggle with mental health. The conversations that you can have regarding the material could be invaluable to helping your child or even your children's friends. Teaching and learning about mental health issues will give your children a way to connect with friends or family who do struggle!
Debating on getting the physical version of this book just to be able to share it out to friends of pre-teens/teenagers.
Such a gripping read and well worth it!!
October 27, 2024
I cannot even find the words for this book.
Stokes has written several books now, and I’ve yet to find one I don’t like, but this one takes the lead.
As someone that has experienced mental illness, myself, I am impressed to see it written in a manner that not only puts you in the shoes of the character but also in a way that makes you WANT to follow the story.
So many people get it wrong, or make it so hard to follow that you just can’t finish, but not with Sam.
Sam is a mess, if we are being honest, but most of us are so that’s okay. She’s also trying her best to survive with no resources and no knowledge to what’s happening to her. I’ve been there, it’s awful. And we are introduced to her struggles in the form of Arya. I can’t say I relate 100% to Sam, as I don’t. But what I did, man it hit home. I had to put the book down and physically catch my breath a couple times, but it was worth it at the end.
I came to really adore and relate with Sam as I read on, even having different conditions. And seeing hers portrayed as an outside character and voice was so well written. I was sad when the book ended, but thankful to see the note it ended on, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t curious as to what other curve balls Sam learned to navigate through, though.
And can we just say what a breath of fresh air Hunter was? I had a Hunter, not in romantic form, but platonic. And I was and still am thankful, every single day, for my Hunter. I loved how he wanted to be there and to help. His patience and kindness and his nervousness was something to smile at.
If you’re looking for a way to better understand depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder this is a great book to read, I’d probably say it would be good for several other conditions as well and is such an eye opener.
Once again, well Done Stokes!
Stokes has written several books now, and I’ve yet to find one I don’t like, but this one takes the lead.
As someone that has experienced mental illness, myself, I am impressed to see it written in a manner that not only puts you in the shoes of the character but also in a way that makes you WANT to follow the story.
So many people get it wrong, or make it so hard to follow that you just can’t finish, but not with Sam.
Sam is a mess, if we are being honest, but most of us are so that’s okay. She’s also trying her best to survive with no resources and no knowledge to what’s happening to her. I’ve been there, it’s awful. And we are introduced to her struggles in the form of Arya. I can’t say I relate 100% to Sam, as I don’t. But what I did, man it hit home. I had to put the book down and physically catch my breath a couple times, but it was worth it at the end.
I came to really adore and relate with Sam as I read on, even having different conditions. And seeing hers portrayed as an outside character and voice was so well written. I was sad when the book ended, but thankful to see the note it ended on, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t curious as to what other curve balls Sam learned to navigate through, though.
And can we just say what a breath of fresh air Hunter was? I had a Hunter, not in romantic form, but platonic. And I was and still am thankful, every single day, for my Hunter. I loved how he wanted to be there and to help. His patience and kindness and his nervousness was something to smile at.
If you’re looking for a way to better understand depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder this is a great book to read, I’d probably say it would be good for several other conditions as well and is such an eye opener.
Once again, well Done Stokes!
August 2, 2024
Hijacked is such a great read, but it maybe difficult for some readers. I really had a hard time putting this book down. I think the author did a fantastic job writing this book. The book takes you on a journey of the MC's mental health struggle. It will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions but it's worth it because it's beautifully written. It gives you a inside look of how someone dealing with mental health issues may feel even if they look happy on the outside. I would highly recommend this book for everyone to read, but your mental health matters so if it's too hard of a read that's ok too. If you can read it I promise it will be worth it, if you need to take breaks while reading it that's ok too. I would love to hear y'alls thoughts if you read it!
Please read trigger warnings before reading this book!
Please read trigger warnings before reading this book!
April 28, 2025
There are not enough words to express how this book made me feel or how it opened my own mind up to things that I could not see in my own depression struggle. No one's struggle is the same I know, but when you read a book that just connects with your heart and shows you that your not alone in this world or to crazy for someone to love,there isn't an amount of stars or a rating that could truly describe it.
I am very thankful that I was allowed to read this book, from M.C Stokes she is a terrific author.
If you need a book that truly explains all the complexities, of having a mental illness and it being a fight! I recommend this wholeheartedly. Though my struggle may be different than that of Sam's, it resonated with me so much that the tears just flowed.
Plus, everyone needs a Hunter! And I am so happy I have mine!
I am very thankful that I was allowed to read this book, from M.C Stokes she is a terrific author.
If you need a book that truly explains all the complexities, of having a mental illness and it being a fight! I recommend this wholeheartedly. Though my struggle may be different than that of Sam's, it resonated with me so much that the tears just flowed.
Plus, everyone needs a Hunter! And I am so happy I have mine!
November 15, 2024
As someone who suffers from chronic depression and anxiety, this book hit home on so many levels for me. Stokes captured the inner monologue of a person suffering from mental illness very well. In fact, much of her writing reminds me of things I actually wrote in my high school journals.
The story is sorrowful, hopeful, and kept me on edge as I wondered how things were going to go for Sam. I was rooting her on from the very beginning and so enjoyed her blooming relationship with Hunter. I had to know if Sam would fight through her illness and claim the life she deserved.
This is an excellent read, a thoughtful exposition into the depths of mental illness with a side of sweet, young romance.
The story is sorrowful, hopeful, and kept me on edge as I wondered how things were going to go for Sam. I was rooting her on from the very beginning and so enjoyed her blooming relationship with Hunter. I had to know if Sam would fight through her illness and claim the life she deserved.
This is an excellent read, a thoughtful exposition into the depths of mental illness with a side of sweet, young romance.
April 18, 2025
“Hijacked” by M.C. Stokes is a dark, emotionally intense story that dives deep into mental health and the silent battles so many fight alone. The Audible version brought this to life in such a powerful way—the narrator’s emotion made it all the more impactful. Stokes does a remarkable job of shedding light on the realities of suicide and mental health and the stigma that often keeps people from reaching out. What stood out to me most was the reminder that sometimes friends and family do notice something’s wrong, but they just don’t know how to help. This book encourages us to break that silence—to ask, to check in. It’s okay to not be okay, and it’s okay to ask for help. This is a powerful and necessary read that stays with you.
August 4, 2025
I dont think words could honestly give this book the rating it deserves.
Please check your trigger warnings as this book is heavily mental health and can be a very difficult read.
The information around everything is spot on and honestly if you want to support someone with mental health disorders I'd say this book gives the most amazing insight.
Sam's world isn't just the normal everyday. Sam's day involves each day at a time. Her living is her survival. Hunter comes into Sam's life and she slowly comes round to communication as Hunter learns the best and most effective way to help Sam.
The Epilogue had me in tears, Happy tears but wow.
This book touched me so much.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Please check your trigger warnings as this book is heavily mental health and can be a very difficult read.
The information around everything is spot on and honestly if you want to support someone with mental health disorders I'd say this book gives the most amazing insight.
Sam's world isn't just the normal everyday. Sam's day involves each day at a time. Her living is her survival. Hunter comes into Sam's life and she slowly comes round to communication as Hunter learns the best and most effective way to help Sam.
The Epilogue had me in tears, Happy tears but wow.
This book touched me so much.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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