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Shattered Things #1
Every Shattered Thing
Stephanie fights reality every day. The voices inside, the ones declaring her worth, deem her broken, used and dirty. She is an object. A toy. Something to be tossed aside when bored. Who will believe her if she whispers the truth about her wrecking ball of a family? Eventually, her secret explodes and the person who means the most to her knows just how shattered she is and why she's so afraid. But rescue is closer than she realizes. Hidden in plain sight, her horror hasn’t been ignored by everyone. Racing against the truth of what she faces, forces are joining together and developing a plan to free her from the hell in her own backyard. And while she’s at her lowest point, she’s hit with the beauty of love at any cost - redemption in the face of ruin. Will it be enough?
*Warning: Contains mature content that may not be suitable for younger audiences*
*Warning: Contains mature content that may not be suitable for younger audiences*
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2012
351 people are currently reading
865 people want to read
About the author
Elora Nicole Ramirez
11 books110 followersHi. My name’s Elora Ramirez.
I am a story coach, author, and gatherer of creative bones. I’ve been writing online for twenty years, which is basically an entire lifetime.
It’s at least long enough for me to find my voice, over and over again, in new ways and in new forms that require an element of bravery. Terry Tempest Williams is right: every single time I’ve uncovered a deeper piece of me, the unearthing has required a betrayal.
This is the alchemic part of creativity — The part that breeds magic and breathes form into being. Guiding you through the underworld of your story to uncover the bones of your past and how these make up the story of who you are in this flesh and bone is what I am here to do. It’s simple, really. We bury a lot. And because we bury, we forget.
And because we forget, we become incoherent.
Remembering births the coherence — a deeper understanding of your story, your creativity, your intuition, and your voice.
It’s always been about story for me. Every single thing I’ve ever done has the hint of narrative. Writing stories as spells for healing, leading others in the excavation of their own story-bones, listening for the whisper of a beginning for the next one I’m supposed to share, and inhaling as many books as physically possible is basically how I spend my days.
Welcome to this new chapter of discovery. I’m glad you’re here.
May you remember who you are.
May you find the bones of your story and learn the song they need to breathe again.
And may the ashes of what was reveal your true name.
I am a story coach, author, and gatherer of creative bones. I’ve been writing online for twenty years, which is basically an entire lifetime.
It’s at least long enough for me to find my voice, over and over again, in new ways and in new forms that require an element of bravery. Terry Tempest Williams is right: every single time I’ve uncovered a deeper piece of me, the unearthing has required a betrayal.
This is the alchemic part of creativity — The part that breeds magic and breathes form into being. Guiding you through the underworld of your story to uncover the bones of your past and how these make up the story of who you are in this flesh and bone is what I am here to do. It’s simple, really. We bury a lot. And because we bury, we forget.
And because we forget, we become incoherent.
Remembering births the coherence — a deeper understanding of your story, your creativity, your intuition, and your voice.
It’s always been about story for me. Every single thing I’ve ever done has the hint of narrative. Writing stories as spells for healing, leading others in the excavation of their own story-bones, listening for the whisper of a beginning for the next one I’m supposed to share, and inhaling as many books as physically possible is basically how I spend my days.
Welcome to this new chapter of discovery. I’m glad you’re here.
May you remember who you are.
May you find the bones of your story and learn the song they need to breathe again.
And may the ashes of what was reveal your true name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
September 5, 2013
Do not read this book. Do not read this book if you cannot be disturbed. Do not read this book if you don't want to experience the debut novel of a writer who faced the blank page about the hardest of subjects. Do not read this book if you can only handle the fiction of books like, "The Girl with the Dragon Tatoo" but not the violence towards heroines who are vulnerable to the worst in the real world.
I did not want to read this book. Even as I read it I did not want to read this book. I did not want to think about my daughter and her friends' potential vulnerability and the things that happen under our noses that we miss. I didn't want to read about what can only happen to the girls in "other" countries, not our own.
Why did I read it? Because I trusted the author. The author who mentors me to write out of a healing place. And as I read the end, even I, who didn't just fly through this book, who wondered if I was too old for this book, came to tears. Is there healing for even such as these? This book helps point the way, even to those who read this book through half-open eyes, like me.
I did not want to read this book. Even as I read it I did not want to read this book. I did not want to think about my daughter and her friends' potential vulnerability and the things that happen under our noses that we miss. I didn't want to read about what can only happen to the girls in "other" countries, not our own.
Why did I read it? Because I trusted the author. The author who mentors me to write out of a healing place. And as I read the end, even I, who didn't just fly through this book, who wondered if I was too old for this book, came to tears. Is there healing for even such as these? This book helps point the way, even to those who read this book through half-open eyes, like me.
September 10, 2013
Stumbling upon this book was completely serendipitous. I'd just come off a bender of reading all twelve books in a series in about two weeks and I needed something new to clear my head. I found this book and didn't even read the description or other reviews before I downloaded it. In a way, I'm glad that I didn't because I don't know that I would have started reading this yesterday if I had. Not because the blurbs and reviews aren't good, but because I don't think I "felt" like reading something about a heavy subject matter. That's the thing about books, right? Sometimes we're taken on a journey that we didn't even realize that we wanted to take. And that's exactly what this book is... A journey.
It's emotional and well-done. I loved her voice and word choice. I loved the build and structure of the story. Simply put, I was pleasantly surprised and look forward to future works by this author.
Yesterday (when I was supposed to be working), I also found myself lost on Elora's blog. http://eloranicole.com/
I've decided that it's one of the best and most inspiring blogs I've found. I kept doing that teary-eyed, nose-tingling swallow thing where you're just on the cusp of crying. It's just so real and raw. This woman knows how to hold her heart outside of her body for all the world to see. Some people might not realize how difficult that is, but I see it and I applaud it.
It's emotional and well-done. I loved her voice and word choice. I loved the build and structure of the story. Simply put, I was pleasantly surprised and look forward to future works by this author.
Yesterday (when I was supposed to be working), I also found myself lost on Elora's blog. http://eloranicole.com/
I've decided that it's one of the best and most inspiring blogs I've found. I kept doing that teary-eyed, nose-tingling swallow thing where you're just on the cusp of crying. It's just so real and raw. This woman knows how to hold her heart outside of her body for all the world to see. Some people might not realize how difficult that is, but I see it and I applaud it.
September 18, 2013
The book has a really good message, but unfortunately there are so many aspects of the book that are unrealistic.
LIKE:
This organization enlisted a high school boy to help them with this super dangerous situation? And his parents didn't know about it?
She is completely neglected, and doesn't use birth control. But somehow her father has bought her cranberry pills?
What hospital would release a child to her father who she claims allowed men to rape her? And what ever happened to that rape kit? In this day and age what doctor would keep it a secret? Why would they have wanted to keep it a secret?
Also what social worker would take the younger child and leave her there? The explanation seemed flaky to me.
Who sneaks out of a hospital? And how did she return to her house, which was a major crime scene, and no one was there?
She moves to USC before finishing high school. You can't go to college, even if you've been accepted if you don't finish high school. This doesn't make sense.
Also, this high school kid suddenly gets his GED and runs off to find her. Where are his parents? And that's not exactly something you can do overnight.
Look I thought the book was powerful, had a great message, and was full of emotion. The inconsistencies were a bit hard to ignore.
LIKE:
This organization enlisted a high school boy to help them with this super dangerous situation? And his parents didn't know about it?
She is completely neglected, and doesn't use birth control. But somehow her father has bought her cranberry pills?
What hospital would release a child to her father who she claims allowed men to rape her? And what ever happened to that rape kit? In this day and age what doctor would keep it a secret? Why would they have wanted to keep it a secret?
Also what social worker would take the younger child and leave her there? The explanation seemed flaky to me.
Who sneaks out of a hospital? And how did she return to her house, which was a major crime scene, and no one was there?
She moves to USC before finishing high school. You can't go to college, even if you've been accepted if you don't finish high school. This doesn't make sense.
Also, this high school kid suddenly gets his GED and runs off to find her. Where are his parents? And that's not exactly something you can do overnight.
Look I thought the book was powerful, had a great message, and was full of emotion. The inconsistencies were a bit hard to ignore.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2014
What a emotional ride that was. If you can't handle scenes of a disturbing nature then this book is NOT for you. Whilst reading there were a few times I thought I couldn't continue until the end. I had to put the book down and walk away, clear my head and then continue. Elora Nicole Ramirez took the risk of writing about a very tough and sadly a subject that is still ongoing around the world as I'm writing this review and compelled something fantastic. It was wrote with the upmost sensitivity, passion and understanding that it grips your heart and makes it race before pulling it out and stamping on it and then the tears flow.
~ Why is yesterday still haunting
~ How am I supposed to love when I've been through nothing but hate
~ why isn't the past letting go
~ How am I supposed to trust when I've known nothing but fear
~ Why are these burdens so terrifying
Just when you think the plot can't thicken any more, when her harrowing life can't get any more gruesome BAM it just keeps coming and coming and my tears keep falling, my heart keeps breaking for that little lost girl, I want to jump into the book and save her with my very own hands. Fantastic book, would I recommend ? Yes, BUT not for the faint hearted.
~ Why is yesterday still haunting
~ How am I supposed to love when I've been through nothing but hate
~ why isn't the past letting go
~ How am I supposed to trust when I've known nothing but fear
~ Why are these burdens so terrifying
Just when you think the plot can't thicken any more, when her harrowing life can't get any more gruesome BAM it just keeps coming and coming and my tears keep falling, my heart keeps breaking for that little lost girl, I want to jump into the book and save her with my very own hands. Fantastic book, would I recommend ? Yes, BUT not for the faint hearted.
September 25, 2013
The content warning in the synopsis is not to be taken lightly. This book definitely deals with a tough subject that is all too real and may be difficult to handle. Anytime a book deals with abuse or sexual assault, I find my emotions exceedingly heightened. This book deals with that subject but at an even more intense level than I could have imagined.
Stephanie is a senior in high school and she is counting down the days to graduation when she will perceptively be free from her broken home and her abusive father. She has so many obstacles to overcome and being free may just be an out of reach dream but she still has hope for a fresh new start and the chance to live her dreams. I loved that despite everything she was going through and the terror that she lived everyday, she still held out hope and the promise of a "new day."
I was glad that she had people like Kevin and Emma and Jude in her life to help her cope and deal. They truly cared about her and they did everything they could to help her within their power. They never gave up and they came through for her when she needed them. Kevin was the type of guy that had the potential to shatter her even more but he truly connected with Stephanie and loved her. He wanted to protect her and he would do anything to take away her pain and sorrow. He helps her forget and brings her to life when she needs it more than anything else. Emma and Jude are like surrogate parents for her and they think of her as a daughter. They want so badly to help Stephanie and get her away from her father. In the end, they come through for her in so many ways and I was so glad she had them in her life.
Stephanie's father is a truly evil human being and the things that he was doing was so unimaginable. I could never have guessed that the plot would take this turn but when it did, I was sickened and horrified. Not only did he do appalling things to his own daughter but he took advantage of other young girls in the worst way. The deeper I got into this book, the more tragic it became and the harder it was for Stephanie to hold onto any hope. She lost everything and I wanted to cry when the last of her hope died out and she wanted it all to end. She had held on for so long and fought so hard but it came to a point where she saw no way out and no foreseeable future but the nightmare she was living. Kevin rescued her just in time and with it her hope to see another beautiful sunrise again.
This book was somewhat difficult for me to read because of the intensity and sensitive subject matter. However, I think the author did a really good job with it and handled it well. It really pointed out some unfortunate truths about the social service and justice system as well as the terrible things that can happen right under your nose, in your own neighborhood and community. All it takes is one person to stand up and provide the innocent with hope of another day and a brighter future.
*An eARC was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.*
Stephanie is a senior in high school and she is counting down the days to graduation when she will perceptively be free from her broken home and her abusive father. She has so many obstacles to overcome and being free may just be an out of reach dream but she still has hope for a fresh new start and the chance to live her dreams. I loved that despite everything she was going through and the terror that she lived everyday, she still held out hope and the promise of a "new day."
I was glad that she had people like Kevin and Emma and Jude in her life to help her cope and deal. They truly cared about her and they did everything they could to help her within their power. They never gave up and they came through for her when she needed them. Kevin was the type of guy that had the potential to shatter her even more but he truly connected with Stephanie and loved her. He wanted to protect her and he would do anything to take away her pain and sorrow. He helps her forget and brings her to life when she needs it more than anything else. Emma and Jude are like surrogate parents for her and they think of her as a daughter. They want so badly to help Stephanie and get her away from her father. In the end, they come through for her in so many ways and I was so glad she had them in her life.
Stephanie's father is a truly evil human being and the things that he was doing was so unimaginable. I could never have guessed that the plot would take this turn but when it did, I was sickened and horrified. Not only did he do appalling things to his own daughter but he took advantage of other young girls in the worst way. The deeper I got into this book, the more tragic it became and the harder it was for Stephanie to hold onto any hope. She lost everything and I wanted to cry when the last of her hope died out and she wanted it all to end. She had held on for so long and fought so hard but it came to a point where she saw no way out and no foreseeable future but the nightmare she was living. Kevin rescued her just in time and with it her hope to see another beautiful sunrise again.
This book was somewhat difficult for me to read because of the intensity and sensitive subject matter. However, I think the author did a really good job with it and handled it well. It really pointed out some unfortunate truths about the social service and justice system as well as the terrible things that can happen right under your nose, in your own neighborhood and community. All it takes is one person to stand up and provide the innocent with hope of another day and a brighter future.
*An eARC was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.*
November 8, 2014
It's not everyday that you come across a book that takes your breath away, in both good and bad ways. Every Shattered Thing was brilliantly written. It's full of gut-wrenching situations but also filled with poetic beauty.
I was captivated with the heroin, Stephanie. She buried herself with in me. She is a natural born fighter. She is brave. She is special. And She is one heroin that I sat on the sidelines cheering for. Regardless of any and all terrible situations that she was presented with, she won. But not just that, she overcame her weaknesses. I don't want to divulge too too much, but just know Stephanie will forever change you.
I need to add that the secondary characters are truly story changers, for the best. You feel their love and their light, instantly. As I was cheering for Stephanie, I was also cheering for Kevin, Emma, Jude, and Pacey. Your heart will be filled to the brim, while you're aching from within, while reading this life changing story.
It should also be known that there was a beautiful love story woven between the darkness and sadness. It was pure, honest, and absolutely breathtaking. It had me in tears a time or two, and made me want to hug both Stephanie and Kevin. The love was felt from the words shared between these two, but it also showed in the most simple of touches a glances. Gahh...these two are magnificent!!
Author Elora Ramirez stuns you with this soul-piercing story; physically, mentally, and emotionally. This isn't a story for the faint of heart. It's a story of depth, strength, severe sadness, and horrific situations. The underlying message and even the story as a whole had me jumping for joy. It has also become one of my favorite books of 2014. I cannot say enough about Stephanie's story. Take a chance on this story, but remember that there are very graphic situations and that it isn't for everyone. Five Brilliant Stars!
I was captivated with the heroin, Stephanie. She buried herself with in me. She is a natural born fighter. She is brave. She is special. And She is one heroin that I sat on the sidelines cheering for. Regardless of any and all terrible situations that she was presented with, she won. But not just that, she overcame her weaknesses. I don't want to divulge too too much, but just know Stephanie will forever change you.
I need to add that the secondary characters are truly story changers, for the best. You feel their love and their light, instantly. As I was cheering for Stephanie, I was also cheering for Kevin, Emma, Jude, and Pacey. Your heart will be filled to the brim, while you're aching from within, while reading this life changing story.
It should also be known that there was a beautiful love story woven between the darkness and sadness. It was pure, honest, and absolutely breathtaking. It had me in tears a time or two, and made me want to hug both Stephanie and Kevin. The love was felt from the words shared between these two, but it also showed in the most simple of touches a glances. Gahh...these two are magnificent!!
Author Elora Ramirez stuns you with this soul-piercing story; physically, mentally, and emotionally. This isn't a story for the faint of heart. It's a story of depth, strength, severe sadness, and horrific situations. The underlying message and even the story as a whole had me jumping for joy. It has also become one of my favorite books of 2014. I cannot say enough about Stephanie's story. Take a chance on this story, but remember that there are very graphic situations and that it isn't for everyone. Five Brilliant Stars!
September 1, 2013
********ARC received in exchange for an honest review********
When I first signed up for this tour I knew it was going to be an emotional read. When I started reading the book, I wasn't sure how I felt about it. I said on my page that it was going to be a book I was either going to love or hate, and to be honest, once I finished I still wasn't sure how I was feeling. But after some time to process, I can now say, hand on my heart, 5 fantastic stars.
This book. Oh man. It was painful to read. The subject matter was heavy but it was handled with a great amount of care and emotion. The main character, Stephanie . . . that poor girl. As if things didn't start off bad enough for her, it just kept getting worse and worse until I was literally begging for her to catch a brake. How is it possible for this much evil to happen to one innocent girl?? But it is possible. In fact, it's not just possible but it actually happens. And I honestly dread to think of the numbers.
Every Shattered Thing was a hard book to read and this a hard review to write. I don't want to give away exactly what this story is about because I want you to experience it the way I did. And if you feel like giving up because you're not sure if you can handle it, please don't. If you give up on this story then it's almost as if you’re giving up on people who live through this on a daily basis. Their story needs to be heard. It's not easy but I'm so glad I read it.
Elora Ramirez really brought all the characters to life. The good and the bad, and unfortunately there was more bad than good. But there was good characters. People who fought for Stephanie. Gave her strength. Hope. Made her believe that rescue was possible so she didn't give up while everyone else just stood by and let it all happen. Please don't be one of those people on the side lines. Read the book. Look for the signs. We've all lived in blissful ignorance for too long.
This hasn't been my typical review. I've not really focused on the writing or the characters but that’s because it all just seems insignificant when you have a storyline such as this one. I have no doubt that this will stay with me for as long as my mind does and I hope it has the same effect on you too. It doesn’t end with a HEA or a cliffhanger but it's definitely left open for more and some of the other characters have their own story to tell so I will be looking out for them.
There are a few websites listed at the end that I spent a while afterwards looking through with tears streaming down my face as I read about stuff happening in our world that I've been completely blind to and I have an unlimited amount of respect for the people who are a part of these organisations. Every Shattered Thing by Elora Ramirez may be fiction but for some, it's their reality. Please listen
When I first signed up for this tour I knew it was going to be an emotional read. When I started reading the book, I wasn't sure how I felt about it. I said on my page that it was going to be a book I was either going to love or hate, and to be honest, once I finished I still wasn't sure how I was feeling. But after some time to process, I can now say, hand on my heart, 5 fantastic stars.
This book. Oh man. It was painful to read. The subject matter was heavy but it was handled with a great amount of care and emotion. The main character, Stephanie . . . that poor girl. As if things didn't start off bad enough for her, it just kept getting worse and worse until I was literally begging for her to catch a brake. How is it possible for this much evil to happen to one innocent girl?? But it is possible. In fact, it's not just possible but it actually happens. And I honestly dread to think of the numbers.
Every Shattered Thing was a hard book to read and this a hard review to write. I don't want to give away exactly what this story is about because I want you to experience it the way I did. And if you feel like giving up because you're not sure if you can handle it, please don't. If you give up on this story then it's almost as if you’re giving up on people who live through this on a daily basis. Their story needs to be heard. It's not easy but I'm so glad I read it.
Elora Ramirez really brought all the characters to life. The good and the bad, and unfortunately there was more bad than good. But there was good characters. People who fought for Stephanie. Gave her strength. Hope. Made her believe that rescue was possible so she didn't give up while everyone else just stood by and let it all happen. Please don't be one of those people on the side lines. Read the book. Look for the signs. We've all lived in blissful ignorance for too long.
This hasn't been my typical review. I've not really focused on the writing or the characters but that’s because it all just seems insignificant when you have a storyline such as this one. I have no doubt that this will stay with me for as long as my mind does and I hope it has the same effect on you too. It doesn’t end with a HEA or a cliffhanger but it's definitely left open for more and some of the other characters have their own story to tell so I will be looking out for them.
There are a few websites listed at the end that I spent a while afterwards looking through with tears streaming down my face as I read about stuff happening in our world that I've been completely blind to and I have an unlimited amount of respect for the people who are a part of these organisations. Every Shattered Thing by Elora Ramirez may be fiction but for some, it's their reality. Please listen
February 22, 2014
I'm seriously on the fence about this one. I love to read dark reads and this one can certainly be categorized as dark, but I like to read the dark stories for the light at the end of the tunnel. But there was no light for this one. I understand it is dealing with a VERY heavy subject but I need a little hope that things will be okay for the characters. I think the first problem was that I didn't connect with the MC. The second problem was the way the emotions were dealt with. They kinda fell flat for me. There were times that I felt a tinge of emotion, but this subject matter should have moved me to tears but I didn't even get misty eyed. There were a lot of inconsistencies for me and I think maybe that and the fact that I didn't connect to the MC kept me from getting emotionally involved.
I just wasn't able to find any humanity in this town save for the couple mentioned in the spoiler above. That was a big turn off for me. I kept reading in hopes that there would be a redemption. Maybe the bad people would be held accountable and the MC would finally get some justice. I'm not quite sure but the way it ended makes me think there will be another book. Maybe justice will be served in the next one. I commend the author for bringing attention to this subject.
I received this book from the author for my honest opinion.
I just wasn't able to find any humanity in this town save for the couple mentioned in the spoiler above. That was a big turn off for me. I kept reading in hopes that there would be a redemption. Maybe the bad people would be held accountable and the MC would finally get some justice. I'm not quite sure but the way it ended makes me think there will be another book. Maybe justice will be served in the next one. I commend the author for bringing attention to this subject.
I received this book from the author for my honest opinion.
September 6, 2013
Elora Ramirez, thank you for providing me a copy of your book for an honest review!
Where to start? When I went into this book, I knew Stephanie had issues. I hadn't realized until I started reading just how horrible they would be. As the story really started to unfold I couldn't help but feel an attachment to the character because one of my childhood best friends had been a victim of rape at the hands of her stepfather and had tried to take her life as a teen, thankfully unsuccessfully. He had really messed her up mentally and emotionally and just reading what was going on to Stephanie felt like a punch in the gut and had me seeing things as an adult that I hadn't really fully understood as a teen.
The author, Elora Ramirez, creates for the reader a story that unfortunately could be a story ripped from the news. I don't know how the author got through it without crying all over her keyboard as she wrote it. When you think things can't get worse for the main character, Stephanie, BAM they do. Luckily she has people who are there for her, that she knows are on her side but the betrayals run so deep. The betrayals, many and some completely out of the blue that it's hard to catch your breath because the heartache you feel for Stephanie and those around her just don't stop.
I suggest anyone over the age of 15 should read this book. It gives you an insight on things that you hear about, but this puts more of a reality into it. Even though it's fiction, you will learn things about people that you may not want to know about, but you should. You will find yourself reading this and unknowingly learning to recognize some of the signs of sexual abuse and hopefully what you learn you will never have to deal with, but if you do, you hopefully will be able to provide help to the person who needs it.
Where to start? When I went into this book, I knew Stephanie had issues. I hadn't realized until I started reading just how horrible they would be. As the story really started to unfold I couldn't help but feel an attachment to the character because one of my childhood best friends had been a victim of rape at the hands of her stepfather and had tried to take her life as a teen, thankfully unsuccessfully. He had really messed her up mentally and emotionally and just reading what was going on to Stephanie felt like a punch in the gut and had me seeing things as an adult that I hadn't really fully understood as a teen.
The author, Elora Ramirez, creates for the reader a story that unfortunately could be a story ripped from the news. I don't know how the author got through it without crying all over her keyboard as she wrote it. When you think things can't get worse for the main character, Stephanie, BAM they do. Luckily she has people who are there for her, that she knows are on her side but the betrayals run so deep. The betrayals, many and some completely out of the blue that it's hard to catch your breath because the heartache you feel for Stephanie and those around her just don't stop.
I suggest anyone over the age of 15 should read this book. It gives you an insight on things that you hear about, but this puts more of a reality into it. Even though it's fiction, you will learn things about people that you may not want to know about, but you should. You will find yourself reading this and unknowingly learning to recognize some of the signs of sexual abuse and hopefully what you learn you will never have to deal with, but if you do, you hopefully will be able to provide help to the person who needs it.
August 16, 2013
I sat down to read this book late in the evening. I read half of it and went to bed. Five minutes later, I read the other half. I couldn't stop. There was something so powerful and profound about the truth woven deeply into the story.
The moment my eyes inhaled her story, Stephanie reached into my soul, gripped it tight, sunk her nails in, looked into my eyes and whispered, "now you know me. what are you going to do about me?" This book is not an easy read, it is not a frilly fluffy love story or something that you might sit on your couch and murmur over for a short while before putting it down and moving on with your life. This book is a gripper, a life changer, a devastating emotional experience that still does not leave you devoid of hope.
Everyone should read this book. But this book should come with a warning label. "Warning: this book will change your life. And this book will never let go of you."
Elora Ramirez's writing style is deep without being over the reader's head. It is passionate without being angry. It is profound without being trite. It is familiar without being repetitious. It is heartbreaking and comforting. It speaks of Something Greater without throwing it in your face.
This book has changed my life.
The moment my eyes inhaled her story, Stephanie reached into my soul, gripped it tight, sunk her nails in, looked into my eyes and whispered, "now you know me. what are you going to do about me?" This book is not an easy read, it is not a frilly fluffy love story or something that you might sit on your couch and murmur over for a short while before putting it down and moving on with your life. This book is a gripper, a life changer, a devastating emotional experience that still does not leave you devoid of hope.
Everyone should read this book. But this book should come with a warning label. "Warning: this book will change your life. And this book will never let go of you."
Elora Ramirez's writing style is deep without being over the reader's head. It is passionate without being angry. It is profound without being trite. It is familiar without being repetitious. It is heartbreaking and comforting. It speaks of Something Greater without throwing it in your face.
This book has changed my life.
December 26, 2013
Every shattered thing is a book about a young woman named Stephanie who is trapped in a life of prostitution from her father and desperately praying for a way out. This was a hard book to read because the author is amazing at getting you to feel Stephanies pain without throwing it in your face. It is a heartbreaking journey into what this young girl is forced into everyday without any hope of escape. I think the saddest part is that there are young girls all over the world who go through this daily while people turn a blind eye. This book is heartbreaking and touching at the same time and is a great read, although be warned it is not a happy ending filled with love and hope. Great book I would definitely rate a 4 out of 5, only because the ending was left open....maybe there is a sequel coming out?
REVIEW BY SARAH AT BC&W
REVIEW BY SARAH AT BC&W
August 29, 2013
I cried tears of hope & heartbreak all the way through this book. Stephanie's story is a challenge to see people, to love well, and to hope in Rescue when we're the ones who desperately need to be seen & loved.
SO RECOMMENDED.
SO RECOMMENDED.
September 9, 2013
I usually try to tough books out but I got to a point where it was Just No. The subject matter wasn't what threw me off,I usually love stories about dark issues, this one just felt juvenile and flat along with the characters( except Emma).
February 12, 2019
Very sad book. Father is a pimp and he sends men over to go into his back shed to have sex with his daughter, and the cops are involved so he gets away with it until.... Now reading sequel Somewhere Between Water and Sky
June 17, 2018
Wow!!
This book was really hard to read not because of the writing style but the subject matter. I need time before I start the next book.
This book was really hard to read not because of the writing style but the subject matter. I need time before I start the next book.
September 5, 2023
Sigh. The story had potential. The writing was horrible. There was a point when Stephanie lost her phone and the next page it had her checking her phone. I will not be reading the next book.
August 25, 2021
It was an OK book with triggers. Some parts of it would help someone in a hopeless situation to not feel as hopeless. Other parts however does not make it seem like there’s a way out. There is a part 2 to this book but part one to me is not interesting enough to make me want to read the second book.
July 11, 2014
I think this book was too intense for me. And it wasn't at all what I was expecting when I read the description and decided to give the book a try. I thought there would be a significant amount of romance... This isn't really a romance novel.
At first reading about the abuse and the suffering was horrible and had meaning and I was actually feeling things when I read. But then there was more abuse. And more. And more. And more. And soon I was completely numb and was like oh yeah just ANOTHER rape scene hm whatever. I didn't even feel bad that I wasn't caring, I was so desensitized to it. I know human trafficking is an issue and it's a big deal but I felt like it was unrealistically portrayed.
I never connected much with Stephenie or her boyfriend that well. They were weird together. He was weird. Everything seemed fake. Also
I did not read the whole book. I couldn't handle reading about any more rape after some point. I skimmed to see whether it would get better and it never did. The whole book was just abuse and abuse and abuse and then
I won't get into any more about how the ending didn't make sense because since I didn't read the whole book I'm not really justified in making judgements about the ending. Regardless, I didn't like the book. I didn't like how it hid under a pretty romance cover and then was full of highly explicit content (I see now that there is a mature warning on the description but I don't recall that being there before). One star is all I could justify giving this awkward book.
At first reading about the abuse and the suffering was horrible and had meaning and I was actually feeling things when I read. But then there was more abuse. And more. And more. And more. And soon I was completely numb and was like oh yeah just ANOTHER rape scene hm whatever. I didn't even feel bad that I wasn't caring, I was so desensitized to it. I know human trafficking is an issue and it's a big deal but I felt like it was unrealistically portrayed.
I never connected much with Stephenie or her boyfriend that well. They were weird together. He was weird. Everything seemed fake. Also
I did not read the whole book. I couldn't handle reading about any more rape after some point. I skimmed to see whether it would get better and it never did. The whole book was just abuse and abuse and abuse and then
I won't get into any more about how the ending didn't make sense because since I didn't read the whole book I'm not really justified in making judgements about the ending. Regardless, I didn't like the book. I didn't like how it hid under a pretty romance cover and then was full of highly explicit content (I see now that there is a mature warning on the description but I don't recall that being there before). One star is all I could justify giving this awkward book.
August 28, 2013
This book....what can I say? I had so many emotions, most of them had me crying, it is not a very long book, but it packs a powerful punch about reality right in your face! The synopsis does not give away what the content of Stephanie's secrets are, and I don't really want to give it away either, however, it may be a trigger for some people so I will give two basic subjects that are covered in this book, physical and emotional abuse, and child prostitution, I will not go any father than that.
I read this book yesterday, and I still cannot stop thinking about it, I know that some may say "it's only a book", but it it not! This is happening everyday to girls (and boys) around the world, and could quite possibly be happening next door to us, and we may never know it.
There is a non-profit organisation mentioned in the book called Love146, I have heard of them before, and watched a couple videos about how they started the organisation, and you can see in the man's eyes about how passionate he is, and he was near tears telling about when he went on his first undercover mission to see how everything happens, it is truly heartbreaking, and inspiring at the same time as he has taken that experience and ran with it and dedicated his life to fighting so that no one has to go through that again in any country!
There are definitely situations in this book that were hard to read, and some made me gag a little just out of the sheer force of the trauma that she is experiencing. When she meets Kevin and she has someone who is a safe spot for her, I was relieved, she needed that. Also learning about Emma and her husband Jude and how good they were to her, it frustrated me that she didn't tell them what was going on, however, at the same time I understood it as she felt she needed to be there for her brother. Also there is the the "battered woman" syndrome where she believed everything that her dad said to her about leaving, he would find her and bring her back, that there was no way out, and this was going to be her life from now on, it is the same reason that it takes some women so long to leave their partners, and some never do, because they have just come to accept what is going on, and they don't fight it anymore.
I highly suggest this book to everyone! It is one of those books that will leave you reeling and looking for something that you can do to help, even if it is a $5.00 donation somewhere, I know I am going to be researching more and looking for opportunities to help for sure! I think that this book should be read by teenagers mature enough to handle the content as it gives a lot of good information about how their fellow classmates may be hiding what is going on at home, and what to look for so they may report it to someone to help them.
This is a 5/5 and if you have read it, I would love to know what you think!
I read this book yesterday, and I still cannot stop thinking about it, I know that some may say "it's only a book", but it it not! This is happening everyday to girls (and boys) around the world, and could quite possibly be happening next door to us, and we may never know it.
There is a non-profit organisation mentioned in the book called Love146, I have heard of them before, and watched a couple videos about how they started the organisation, and you can see in the man's eyes about how passionate he is, and he was near tears telling about when he went on his first undercover mission to see how everything happens, it is truly heartbreaking, and inspiring at the same time as he has taken that experience and ran with it and dedicated his life to fighting so that no one has to go through that again in any country!
There are definitely situations in this book that were hard to read, and some made me gag a little just out of the sheer force of the trauma that she is experiencing. When she meets Kevin and she has someone who is a safe spot for her, I was relieved, she needed that. Also learning about Emma and her husband Jude and how good they were to her, it frustrated me that she didn't tell them what was going on, however, at the same time I understood it as she felt she needed to be there for her brother. Also there is the the "battered woman" syndrome where she believed everything that her dad said to her about leaving, he would find her and bring her back, that there was no way out, and this was going to be her life from now on, it is the same reason that it takes some women so long to leave their partners, and some never do, because they have just come to accept what is going on, and they don't fight it anymore.
I highly suggest this book to everyone! It is one of those books that will leave you reeling and looking for something that you can do to help, even if it is a $5.00 donation somewhere, I know I am going to be researching more and looking for opportunities to help for sure! I think that this book should be read by teenagers mature enough to handle the content as it gives a lot of good information about how their fellow classmates may be hiding what is going on at home, and what to look for so they may report it to someone to help them.
This is a 5/5 and if you have read it, I would love to know what you think!
November 14, 2013
5/5 heart wrenching, ugly crier stars
***eARC provided by author in exchange for honest review***
I didn't know what to expect. As I began to read and read and read I was so sucked in I couldn't stop. Then I had to. I needed to walk away. I need love and reassurance from my kids and hubby. I needed to feel alive. I cried. I cried because this story moved me. I know there is evil in this world. I know that this story could be told by countless girls. I thought about how in the little town I live in, how this could happen, and for that I wept.
Sadness enveloped my soul, I wanted to shield my children from all evil. I just could not fathom how parents could be this heartless and wretched.
Stephanie the main character is easy to love. She is living in hell and everyday it gets worse and worse. Trapped in a house where her parents do not love or respect her, she fights daily to see the good in humanity. She uses her writing as an escape and does her best to shield her baby brother from all the rage and hate in the house. The only people that she can turn to are Emma, Jude and her boyfriend Kevin.
I loved Emma and Jude. They are truly heroes for loving and giving Stephanie the hope she needed to survive. They showered her with love even though at times she felt useless and dirty.
Kevin, ah Kevin what can I say. This guy stole my breath away. He saw the beauty in Stephanie that most people over looked or did not care to see. He also gave her hope and was there for her even in her roughest and worst times in her life. His love for her was unconditional and beyond measure. I cheered for them and loved that he gave her something to look forward too.
Stephanie's parents are disgusting, vile, evil, nasty people who should have been shot. I was sick, so sick at the things I read that were done to this child and other children. Like I said I know there is evil in this world and I have read many books about abuse, drugs, human trafficking, prostitution etc...But the pictures of this girl were so strong in my head I cried. How parents could do this is beyond my scope of understanding, I know it happens, I have seen tv shows about it, even watched a few specials. My daughter is 13, Stephanie's abuse began when she was 12, so it hit me. I don't really know what else I can say, because I feel the author did her duty. She wrote a spectacular book. One that is eye opening. I am a bit sad with the ending only because it was not a HEA. I don't know if there will be a book two but (and I know I have bitched about series books) I need a book two. I need to know that Stephanie overcomes her past. That Kevin is able to repair the damage done. That Jude and Emma are still there giving her hope and love.
***eARC provided by author in exchange for honest review***
I didn't know what to expect. As I began to read and read and read I was so sucked in I couldn't stop. Then I had to. I needed to walk away. I need love and reassurance from my kids and hubby. I needed to feel alive. I cried. I cried because this story moved me. I know there is evil in this world. I know that this story could be told by countless girls. I thought about how in the little town I live in, how this could happen, and for that I wept.
Sadness enveloped my soul, I wanted to shield my children from all evil. I just could not fathom how parents could be this heartless and wretched.
Stephanie the main character is easy to love. She is living in hell and everyday it gets worse and worse. Trapped in a house where her parents do not love or respect her, she fights daily to see the good in humanity. She uses her writing as an escape and does her best to shield her baby brother from all the rage and hate in the house. The only people that she can turn to are Emma, Jude and her boyfriend Kevin.
I loved Emma and Jude. They are truly heroes for loving and giving Stephanie the hope she needed to survive. They showered her with love even though at times she felt useless and dirty.
Kevin, ah Kevin what can I say. This guy stole my breath away. He saw the beauty in Stephanie that most people over looked or did not care to see. He also gave her hope and was there for her even in her roughest and worst times in her life. His love for her was unconditional and beyond measure. I cheered for them and loved that he gave her something to look forward too.
Stephanie's parents are disgusting, vile, evil, nasty people who should have been shot. I was sick, so sick at the things I read that were done to this child and other children. Like I said I know there is evil in this world and I have read many books about abuse, drugs, human trafficking, prostitution etc...But the pictures of this girl were so strong in my head I cried. How parents could do this is beyond my scope of understanding, I know it happens, I have seen tv shows about it, even watched a few specials. My daughter is 13, Stephanie's abuse began when she was 12, so it hit me. I don't really know what else I can say, because I feel the author did her duty. She wrote a spectacular book. One that is eye opening. I am a bit sad with the ending only because it was not a HEA. I don't know if there will be a book two but (and I know I have bitched about series books) I need a book two. I need to know that Stephanie overcomes her past. That Kevin is able to repair the damage done. That Jude and Emma are still there giving her hope and love.
September 4, 2013
This is one of those heavy subject books that seems so interesting when you first see it, then you pick it up and actually start reading and kind of remember that yeah, you actually have a heart. And it doesn't just swoony-swoon over Guy Chambers. It cares about things. And it actually CAN care about a female MC, even when you don't necessarily like her a whole lot.
I don't particularly like Stephanie. She was boring to me. But I'm not even going to try to pretend I exactly know what it's like to live her life. Through her eyes, though, it was extremely frustrating. It's not even like her predicament was a huge secret. And...just...FRUSTRATION.
But, you know what? I like this book. Because it CAN frustrate me for an actual, logical reason that makes me THINK. I'm a firm believer that when a book gets into my brain this much because it portrays serious issues that well, then it's something worth paying attention to.
Honestly, it's not my favorite novel addressing something serious like this, but it IS a good one. It held my attention and curiosity, and it told a story that I'm glad to have read. The writing wasn't my favorite, but it wasn't bad, either. I just felt that the vocabulary was somewhat out of place at times. Words were used in such a fashion that they didn't feel entirely real, like something Stephanie or Kevin or maybe even Jude would say if they were people I knew in real life.
Okay, not that I've mentioned both Kevin and Jude, I'll tell you this--no. No love triangle. Jude is a father-figure to Stephanie and I think he's great. I adore Kevin, too, but actually in a book boyfriend way for him. I think Stephanie is so, so lucky to have both of these people in her life, as well as Emma. I thought Emma was awesome.
Overall, I would definitely recommend Every Shattered Thing if you can handle the dark premise and it's something you enjoy reading. Rest assured, Elora Ramirez does a superb job at doing this topic justice.
You can find more from me on my blog, Just a Booklover
I don't particularly like Stephanie. She was boring to me. But I'm not even going to try to pretend I exactly know what it's like to live her life. Through her eyes, though, it was extremely frustrating. It's not even like her predicament was a huge secret. And...just...FRUSTRATION.
But, you know what? I like this book. Because it CAN frustrate me for an actual, logical reason that makes me THINK. I'm a firm believer that when a book gets into my brain this much because it portrays serious issues that well, then it's something worth paying attention to.
Honestly, it's not my favorite novel addressing something serious like this, but it IS a good one. It held my attention and curiosity, and it told a story that I'm glad to have read. The writing wasn't my favorite, but it wasn't bad, either. I just felt that the vocabulary was somewhat out of place at times. Words were used in such a fashion that they didn't feel entirely real, like something Stephanie or Kevin or maybe even Jude would say if they were people I knew in real life.
Okay, not that I've mentioned both Kevin and Jude, I'll tell you this--no. No love triangle. Jude is a father-figure to Stephanie and I think he's great. I adore Kevin, too, but actually in a book boyfriend way for him. I think Stephanie is so, so lucky to have both of these people in her life, as well as Emma. I thought Emma was awesome.
Overall, I would definitely recommend Every Shattered Thing if you can handle the dark premise and it's something you enjoy reading. Rest assured, Elora Ramirez does a superb job at doing this topic justice.
You can find more from me on my blog, Just a Booklover
September 2, 2013
Let me start this by saying Every Shattered Thing by Elora Ramirez was by far the best book I read during the month of August and one of the best I’ve read this year! Now, on to the review:
He snarls in disgust. “I regret the day you were born. You mean nothing to me, you little bitch. Nothing. You’re the worst mistake of my life.”
Is your mouth open right now? Yea, mine was. This is a father talking to his daughter Stephanie. This is the first time that my heart broke a little bit, a tear formed, and my blood pressure rose while reading Every Shattered Thing and it definitely wasn’t the last.
“He’s right you know. You’re worthless. I wish I would have listened to him from the very beginning. You shoulda never been born. I shoulda aborted you when I had the chance.”
Well, damn! To say Stephanie has a rough life is the understatement of the year. This is her mother talking to her. I seriously cannot get my thoughts together in regards to this book. It is just that overwhelming and exhausting.
We hear about human trafficking in the news, happening in other countries, and in the movie Taken starring Liam Neeson. But, how many of us actually read an account of what it may be like for a young lady that is a victim of this inhumane act? Every Shattered Thing is a work of fiction but I would bet money on it that it is pretty accurate depiction of how a young woman feels as a sex slave.
Every Shattered Thing left me speechless and hurt. My head hurt after it was over. My heart hurt after it was over. Every Shattered Thing is a book of desperation. Every Shattered Thing is a book of darkness. Every Shattered Thing is a book of hope. Every Shattered Thing is a book that everyone should read because we should not continue to sweep the topic of sex trafficking under the rug. I truly commend Elora Ramirez for writing Every Shattered Thing!!!
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of Every Shattered Thing in exchange for an honest review.
He snarls in disgust. “I regret the day you were born. You mean nothing to me, you little bitch. Nothing. You’re the worst mistake of my life.”
Is your mouth open right now? Yea, mine was. This is a father talking to his daughter Stephanie. This is the first time that my heart broke a little bit, a tear formed, and my blood pressure rose while reading Every Shattered Thing and it definitely wasn’t the last.
“He’s right you know. You’re worthless. I wish I would have listened to him from the very beginning. You shoulda never been born. I shoulda aborted you when I had the chance.”
Well, damn! To say Stephanie has a rough life is the understatement of the year. This is her mother talking to her. I seriously cannot get my thoughts together in regards to this book. It is just that overwhelming and exhausting.
We hear about human trafficking in the news, happening in other countries, and in the movie Taken starring Liam Neeson. But, how many of us actually read an account of what it may be like for a young lady that is a victim of this inhumane act? Every Shattered Thing is a work of fiction but I would bet money on it that it is pretty accurate depiction of how a young woman feels as a sex slave.
Every Shattered Thing left me speechless and hurt. My head hurt after it was over. My heart hurt after it was over. Every Shattered Thing is a book of desperation. Every Shattered Thing is a book of darkness. Every Shattered Thing is a book of hope. Every Shattered Thing is a book that everyone should read because we should not continue to sweep the topic of sex trafficking under the rug. I truly commend Elora Ramirez for writing Every Shattered Thing!!!
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of Every Shattered Thing in exchange for an honest review.
August 27, 2013
This is a fabulously well-written book. Elora paints a vivid picture of the world of human trafficking. It's fiction, but you know as you're reading that this is reality for so many young girls. You know that you're reading pieces of stories, shadows of others' heartbreaks. It is raw and ragged, but also a captivating story- well-paced and the characters are so real. I felt as if I could really know these people. It is fiction at its best. In the days after I finished the novel, I often found myself thinking, "who told me that? who did I hear that from?" and remember that it was a character from Every Shattered Thing.
The book has an undoubtedly dark and disturbing premise. Some scenes were so graphic that I struggled to get through them. But there is a crack in the darkness, just enough for the light. Redemption is powerfully and honestly woven through the book. It is hard-fought for hope, and I find that is the truest kind. For so many who are in hopeless situations, redemption seems a fairy tale. Elora speaks to this through Stephanie's story and any redemption she finds is not without loss and pain. Elora does this difficult topic justice. She does not diminish the pain and darkness with cliches and happy endings. Yes, rescue is coming, but it is coming through grit and grime. It is coming by facing the darkness. The redemption is so profound because of the evil the characters have survived.
This is not only a great read, but an important book. Truth woven into fiction, and done masterfully. Read this book- and get everyone you know to read it too.
The book has an undoubtedly dark and disturbing premise. Some scenes were so graphic that I struggled to get through them. But there is a crack in the darkness, just enough for the light. Redemption is powerfully and honestly woven through the book. It is hard-fought for hope, and I find that is the truest kind. For so many who are in hopeless situations, redemption seems a fairy tale. Elora speaks to this through Stephanie's story and any redemption she finds is not without loss and pain. Elora does this difficult topic justice. She does not diminish the pain and darkness with cliches and happy endings. Yes, rescue is coming, but it is coming through grit and grime. It is coming by facing the darkness. The redemption is so profound because of the evil the characters have survived.
This is not only a great read, but an important book. Truth woven into fiction, and done masterfully. Read this book- and get everyone you know to read it too.
September 16, 2013
I don't think I've ever cried so much reading a book before.
If I wasn't sobbing my eyes out for Stephanie and Pacey, then I had tears streaming down my cheeks because of the beautiful love shown by Kevin, Emma and Jude.
This book is hard-hitting and shattered my heart a million times over. The horror of what was happening to Steph left me feeling broken every time I thought about it...it still does! And to think that this sort of thing actually happens in real life; There are actually sick, disgusting individuals who'd act in such a despicable manner!
I was an emotional wreck by the end of this book. I felt every heart-wrenching, gut-twisting moment that Steph had to live through, and all I wanted to do was reach into this book and pull her and Pacey from its pages. I was just so thankful that they had people who did love and care enough to do something to help them both when they really needed it. They'd been through so much, and lived in hell for many years. When I think of their pathetic excuse for parents, my blood boils.
I loved Kevin! He was just such an amazing, gentle, wonderful guy. There's so much more I want to say about him, and about the way he took care of Steph, but I'm afraid I'll give too much away. Just know, that when you read this book, you will fall in love with him.
The ending was a huge surprise. I was totally blindsided.
Ramirez is an amazingly talented writer and I really cannot wait to read more from her.
I'll just be sure to stock up on tissues before reading her next book :)
If I wasn't sobbing my eyes out for Stephanie and Pacey, then I had tears streaming down my cheeks because of the beautiful love shown by Kevin, Emma and Jude.
This book is hard-hitting and shattered my heart a million times over. The horror of what was happening to Steph left me feeling broken every time I thought about it...it still does! And to think that this sort of thing actually happens in real life; There are actually sick, disgusting individuals who'd act in such a despicable manner!
I was an emotional wreck by the end of this book. I felt every heart-wrenching, gut-twisting moment that Steph had to live through, and all I wanted to do was reach into this book and pull her and Pacey from its pages. I was just so thankful that they had people who did love and care enough to do something to help them both when they really needed it. They'd been through so much, and lived in hell for many years. When I think of their pathetic excuse for parents, my blood boils.
I loved Kevin! He was just such an amazing, gentle, wonderful guy. There's so much more I want to say about him, and about the way he took care of Steph, but I'm afraid I'll give too much away. Just know, that when you read this book, you will fall in love with him.
The ending was a huge surprise. I was totally blindsided.
Ramirez is an amazingly talented writer and I really cannot wait to read more from her.
I'll just be sure to stock up on tissues before reading her next book :)
August 29, 2013
Every Shattered Thing was a heartbreakingly wonderful read! I hadn't read the blurb to this book before I started, I was just told that it was an amazing read, YA but with mature content. The beginning of the book reminded me of Reason to Breathe series, but after a few chapters I realized that there was more going on than just a drunken abusive father. The writing is very vivid, enough that your stomach twists in knots.. it's just down right sick in places.
The thing I liked most about this book, was Stephanie, the main character. Her life is the most crap-tastic I've ever read, yet she remains strong. Even at her most shattered and broken, she's strong. My heart ached at times when she was strong. I don't know if my will to live would have equaled hers, yet she made it. The ending made me sad though. I saw some of the components coming through, but was in denial. I have to agree with Stephanie's decision even though it hurts to think about it.
Overall, this was a very rocky and emotional read. It will break you down but give you hope.. you will know that things can always get worse, but you need to stay positive, and hope things will get better. Since this is a dark read, it's definitely not for the light hearted, it hurts, it's real life, but a damn good read!
The thing I liked most about this book, was Stephanie, the main character. Her life is the most crap-tastic I've ever read, yet she remains strong. Even at her most shattered and broken, she's strong. My heart ached at times when she was strong. I don't know if my will to live would have equaled hers, yet she made it. The ending made me sad though. I saw some of the components coming through, but was in denial. I have to agree with Stephanie's decision even though it hurts to think about it.
Overall, this was a very rocky and emotional read. It will break you down but give you hope.. you will know that things can always get worse, but you need to stay positive, and hope things will get better. Since this is a dark read, it's definitely not for the light hearted, it hurts, it's real life, but a damn good read!
September 28, 2013
This is definitely the most heartbreaking and gut wrenching book I have ever read so far. When I saw the Blurb and reviews, I didn't really have a firm grasp on just how deep the book is until I began reading it.
There were moments when I was talking myself out of finishing it just because it was too much. With what Stephanie is going through, it was so easy to just give up-- to let go. I actually found myself wishing she would just finish herself off just so the torture would end. I know it's wrong and cowardly but seriously, her situation is just so effed up that I just want her to rest already. No woman should ever go through what she has.
I admire the strength and the emotional toughness that the main character exuded -- to be able to hang on when everything is going to hell is highly commendable. I loved how the author was able to portray a girl who was by all means shattered but somehow survived it one day at a time and to be able to focus on the people that still mattered.
I kind of wished the ending though was more. I know with what she's gone through that an instant happy ending would be ludicrous but still, I felt like the ending left me hanging. Nevertheless, I loved this book despite the awful pictures it painted within the corners of my mind. :)
There were moments when I was talking myself out of finishing it just because it was too much. With what Stephanie is going through, it was so easy to just give up-- to let go. I actually found myself wishing she would just finish herself off just so the torture would end. I know it's wrong and cowardly but seriously, her situation is just so effed up that I just want her to rest already. No woman should ever go through what she has.
I admire the strength and the emotional toughness that the main character exuded -- to be able to hang on when everything is going to hell is highly commendable. I loved how the author was able to portray a girl who was by all means shattered but somehow survived it one day at a time and to be able to focus on the people that still mattered.
I kind of wished the ending though was more. I know with what she's gone through that an instant happy ending would be ludicrous but still, I felt like the ending left me hanging. Nevertheless, I loved this book despite the awful pictures it painted within the corners of my mind. :)
March 11, 2014
One of the most powerful books I read all year, This was a gritty story about a young girl forced into prostitution.
This story ripped my heart out and stomped on it. The reality of trafficking is terrifying and far more prevalent then we know. This is the story of nightmares!
I could not put it down, I stayed up till nearly 3 am needing to know how it would end.
The book shattered me! I was devastated while reading it. I sobbed from the HORRORS she endured. Every time I felt hope it was ripped away, I felt helpless and wished I could rescue her. Stephanie who was forced into prostitution by her farther believed that she had little prospect to be saved, But there were others around that did love her and offered her the support she needed to survive.
This was an incredibly difficult book to read, There is no happy ending in a story like this. It was an amazing book that was thought provoking and profound. It paints a vivid picture of the realities of trafficking and for that it is a MUST read!!!!!!!!!
5 Gut-wrenching stars
This story ripped my heart out and stomped on it. The reality of trafficking is terrifying and far more prevalent then we know. This is the story of nightmares!
I could not put it down, I stayed up till nearly 3 am needing to know how it would end.
The book shattered me! I was devastated while reading it. I sobbed from the HORRORS she endured. Every time I felt hope it was ripped away, I felt helpless and wished I could rescue her. Stephanie who was forced into prostitution by her farther believed that she had little prospect to be saved, But there were others around that did love her and offered her the support she needed to survive.
This was an incredibly difficult book to read, There is no happy ending in a story like this. It was an amazing book that was thought provoking and profound. It paints a vivid picture of the realities of trafficking and for that it is a MUST read!!!!!!!!!
5 Gut-wrenching stars
October 15, 2013
This is not an easy read. Sure, it's fairly short and the syntax and vocabulary are straight-forward (you could probably breeze through it in a day or two if you wanted), but the subject matter is jarring. It is certainly not for the faint-hearted. I think you honor yourself and the material best by reading this one slow, a couple chapters at a time. Let the characters introduce themselves to you, give yourself time to process the hard parts, let the upsetting truths slowly shatter your own preconceived notions, of justice and hope and redemption. I think you'll find, as I did, that the story lingers in your mind for days afterward, refusing to be let go and it will break you in every good way.
September 8, 2013
I'll be honest; even though Elora's writing (on her blog) always speaks to my soul, I was skeptical of Every Shattered Thing as a YA novel, because I haven't touched one of those in years, and haven't wanted to. But once I started reading, I couldn't stop. The characters grabbed my heart and wouldn't let go. I plunged headfirst into the story and didn't come up for air until I finished. I felt more kinds of emotions than I have reading any single book: rage, sadness, optimism, despair, hope. People, any writer who can do that for me is worth your time and your money, since I rarely feel a book I am reading. Elora has a beautiful way with words, and I can't wait for her next book. :)
December 31, 2014
This is such an important book to read. It is heart wrenching and hard to read. I've seen some other reviews suggesting the violence and abuse in it was too much or taken too far, but after extensive research into human trafficking and hearing stories from rescued girls, I can say with confidence, nothing in this book is exaggerated. It is imperative that we take the long hard look into things happening on our own soil. Aside from the significance of the issue, the book is beautifully written and I highly recommend it.
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