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Broken Beauty
**Contains graphic content involving the sensitive topic of rape and its aftermath. Not intended for teens under 18.**
Sometimes bad things happen to beautiful people.
When socialite party girl Mia Abbott-Renou wakes up in a garden she has little recall of the previous night -- except that she is naked...hurt...terrified. Not only has she been raped, but she knows one of her assailants: the son of a wealthy politician who happens to be her own father’s political ally.
Mia wants and needs justice. Except this privileged boy has an alibi and her father forbids her from going to the police. It’s a critical election year, one that his party might lose if his image as a doting father is soured due to Mia being labeled a lush or worse, promiscuous.
Devastated at not having the support of her family, Mia finds herself in a tug-of-war with her conscience over what to do, especially since she can’t remember exactly what happened that night. Worse, the men who attacked her have hurt several other girls, and Mia may be the key to stopping them.
Mia tries to forget, until the unthinkable happens, and she’s left reeling once again until she realizes that her strength will bring healing and unlocking her memories will bring justice.
Sometimes bad things happen to beautiful people.
When socialite party girl Mia Abbott-Renou wakes up in a garden she has little recall of the previous night -- except that she is naked...hurt...terrified. Not only has she been raped, but she knows one of her assailants: the son of a wealthy politician who happens to be her own father’s political ally.
Mia wants and needs justice. Except this privileged boy has an alibi and her father forbids her from going to the police. It’s a critical election year, one that his party might lose if his image as a doting father is soured due to Mia being labeled a lush or worse, promiscuous.
Devastated at not having the support of her family, Mia finds herself in a tug-of-war with her conscience over what to do, especially since she can’t remember exactly what happened that night. Worse, the men who attacked her have hurt several other girls, and Mia may be the key to stopping them.
Mia tries to forget, until the unthinkable happens, and she’s left reeling once again until she realizes that her strength will bring healing and unlocking her memories will bring justice.
85 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2013
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257 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
July 15, 2015
5 Words: Not. My. Cup. Of. Tea.
Very disappointing.
This book deals with such terribly serious issues that it's almost too much to read. Throw in the main character Mia and the fact that this seems to be more a portion of a book than a novella, and I just about put it down.
Mia is the biggest problem with this novella. She is so immature. Too immature. I wanted to scream at her, to smack her around the face and tell her to grow up. She "hates" her Daddy but she only ever calls him Daddy. Daddy. Seriously. That's not what you call your mostly-absent father who seemingly doesn't give a crap about you. She uses her best friend, puts up with her. This is her best friend who is incredibly supportive and frankly, a wonderful friend. Heck, I want her as a friend.
When I got to the end of this I honestly sat there thinking "where's the rest?" This is not a novella. It's part of a book. It's part of a book that has been hacked into chunks in a bid to make more money. You won't find any closure at all with the end of this. It's like perhaps the first 1/4 of a book where it's setting the scene and just when you get to the BIG ISSUE that will shape the rest of the story, you
See what I did there? That's how it ends.
On the flip side this did deal with the issues it tackled quite well. It did also remind me why I'm so so glad I was born and live in Britain. America, in some ways you suck.
I will read on, in the way I'd carry on after 80 pages of a naff book to see if it will get better. 49p seems OK, but I'd rather this was free. I got it from NetGalley in exchange for review but I wouldn't pay for it, not as it is.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
Very disappointing.
This book deals with such terribly serious issues that it's almost too much to read. Throw in the main character Mia and the fact that this seems to be more a portion of a book than a novella, and I just about put it down.
Mia is the biggest problem with this novella. She is so immature. Too immature. I wanted to scream at her, to smack her around the face and tell her to grow up. She "hates" her Daddy but she only ever calls him Daddy. Daddy. Seriously. That's not what you call your mostly-absent father who seemingly doesn't give a crap about you. She uses her best friend, puts up with her. This is her best friend who is incredibly supportive and frankly, a wonderful friend. Heck, I want her as a friend.
When I got to the end of this I honestly sat there thinking "where's the rest?" This is not a novella. It's part of a book. It's part of a book that has been hacked into chunks in a bid to make more money. You won't find any closure at all with the end of this. It's like perhaps the first 1/4 of a book where it's setting the scene and just when you get to the BIG ISSUE that will shape the rest of the story, you
See what I did there? That's how it ends.
On the flip side this did deal with the issues it tackled quite well. It did also remind me why I'm so so glad I was born and live in Britain. America, in some ways you suck.
I will read on, in the way I'd carry on after 80 pages of a naff book to see if it will get better. 49p seems OK, but I'd rather this was free. I got it from NetGalley in exchange for review but I wouldn't pay for it, not as it is.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
February 9, 2017
First, let me just say I got this book because Lizzy Ford is one of the authors. I love her sci-fi books and she's an automatic read for me. I grabbed this book up as soon as I saw it and didn't bother to read what it was about. This is nothing like I've read from her before. I don't know if I would have read this book if I had paid attention to the description. How do you rate a book that follows the story of the aftermath of a teenage girl who was raped? This story is devastating. This poor girl is trying to survive a brutal attack and the more I read, the more I was furious on her behalf. Her father is a politician and her mother is a drunk. Neither one of her parents showed up at the hospital. Her fathers only concern is how to use this "incident" for his campaign. Her father refuses to consent for the morning after pill because he views it as murder. She gets prosecuted for underage drinking so the DA can pressure her to name her attackers. This poor girl is being punished for what happened to her. This was not easy to read because I know that there is truth to this story for so many women. It just drives home that no one can truly understand what others go through. Everyone's experience is different. They react differently. They are treated differently. They have different support systems or no support systems at all.
This is not a complete story and ends on a cliffhanger. ARC provided by NetGalley.
This is not a complete story and ends on a cliffhanger. ARC provided by NetGalley.
February 5, 2017
*Received from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review*
SPOILERS!!!
This was a story of a girl being victimized again and again. First by her rapists and then by her own family. She can identify her rapists, but her family basically all tell her how the family's reputation will be ruined if she has to go to court against the boys. Her family was just the worst, and the sad reality is that this is such a common situation. Although her parents did it because of how it would make the family look, others tell victims to keep it within the family. And those victims, much like Mia, start to blame themselves and believe it wouldn't have happened if they hadn't done this or that. Sad. And even worse was that her father's beliefs kept the doctors from giving Mia the morning after pill and the book ended with Mia finding out she was pregnant. Stars off because the ending was so abrupt. Also because Mia was extremely condescending when she had to do work at the women's shelter. There were battered women and children trying to survive and she's busy complaining over the crumbs on a keypad and dirt on a table.
SPOILERS!!!
This was a story of a girl being victimized again and again. First by her rapists and then by her own family. She can identify her rapists, but her family basically all tell her how the family's reputation will be ruined if she has to go to court against the boys. Her family was just the worst, and the sad reality is that this is such a common situation. Although her parents did it because of how it would make the family look, others tell victims to keep it within the family. And those victims, much like Mia, start to blame themselves and believe it wouldn't have happened if they hadn't done this or that. Sad. And even worse was that her father's beliefs kept the doctors from giving Mia the morning after pill and the book ended with Mia finding out she was pregnant. Stars off because the ending was so abrupt. Also because Mia was extremely condescending when she had to do work at the women's shelter. There were battered women and children trying to survive and she's busy complaining over the crumbs on a keypad and dirt on a table.
April 19, 2015
~~3 HEARTS~~
WOW! This book is an eye opener. I had this on my kindle for the longest time so I thought it was time for me to get to some of the ones that I neglected. Well even though this is a novella which is short, this book packed a lot of emotions in it. I felt sympathy for Mia. She had nobody that really "cared" about her and her well being. Her father is a politician and her mother was away at rehab for alcoholism. Her father was all about the public eye. I really disliked him! He choose his job over his own daughter. Mia had nobody and I'm glad Dom was there for her when no one else was. I hope to get a little more of Dom in the next novella.
September 3, 2014
Arc provided via Netgalley in exchange for honest review
This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.
Rape is one of those sensitive and heavy themes to read about and I'm sure it's even harder to write about it, especially if you are a rape victim yourself. That's why I really admire the author of this book for writing this story. It's about Mia Abbott-Renou, the daughter of a famous politician, who is about to start her senior year in high school. At the beginning of the story, she wakes up in a hospital where she must come with terms that she was raped and then...all hell breaks loose.
Deeply emotional, touching & frustrating, around 70 pages long novella. Mia's story will bring you to tears. There were a few grammar mistakes, but I liked the writing style enough. The author wrote it in a pretty vivid and realistic way that you could feel every emotion and worry of the main character as if you were in that hospital room with her. I had only one bigger issue with the story and that's Mia's ignorance of protection and sex in general. I can't believe that in modern world of nowadays she could be so uneducated when it comes to sex, especially when you are the daughter of a well-know politician and have access to everything.
Unfortunately, rape is something that happens every day and our legal system often fails when it comes to this type of sexual assault. I don't even want to talk about countries like Pakistan and other similar countries of eastern Europe whose tradition and legal system make my skin crawl. My heart goes out to all, not only women, but all people who are victims of this horrible and traumatic act and who have to deal with its consequences every day. I definitely think that there should be more books with this theme to raise more awareness about this problem.
This is my first book by this author, but, minor issues aside, I liked it enough to be interested in reading the rest of 5 novellas in the series and to find out the fate of Mia Abbott-Renou. Come on Mia, you can do it!!!<3
This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.
Rape is one of those sensitive and heavy themes to read about and I'm sure it's even harder to write about it, especially if you are a rape victim yourself. That's why I really admire the author of this book for writing this story. It's about Mia Abbott-Renou, the daughter of a famous politician, who is about to start her senior year in high school. At the beginning of the story, she wakes up in a hospital where she must come with terms that she was raped and then...all hell breaks loose.
Deeply emotional, touching & frustrating, around 70 pages long novella. Mia's story will bring you to tears. There were a few grammar mistakes, but I liked the writing style enough. The author wrote it in a pretty vivid and realistic way that you could feel every emotion and worry of the main character as if you were in that hospital room with her. I had only one bigger issue with the story and that's Mia's ignorance of protection and sex in general. I can't believe that in modern world of nowadays she could be so uneducated when it comes to sex, especially when you are the daughter of a well-know politician and have access to everything.
Unfortunately, rape is something that happens every day and our legal system often fails when it comes to this type of sexual assault. I don't even want to talk about countries like Pakistan and other similar countries of eastern Europe whose tradition and legal system make my skin crawl. My heart goes out to all, not only women, but all people who are victims of this horrible and traumatic act and who have to deal with its consequences every day. I definitely think that there should be more books with this theme to raise more awareness about this problem.
This is my first book by this author, but, minor issues aside, I liked it enough to be interested in reading the rest of 5 novellas in the series and to find out the fate of Mia Abbott-Renou. Come on Mia, you can do it!!!<3
April 16, 2014
*I got this book from NetGalley and this review is completely honest.*
This is a novella, the first of six, that follow Mia, a young, rich girl whose father is a prominent politician. This novella covers some dark topics: rape and abuse. That being said, and having read quite a few books with this topic, I didn't feel this novella did it as well as others. The writing was fine, definitely better than some, but there are some specific reasons I didn't like this novella.
- First of all, Mia acts very immature. This is a girl, a young woman really, who is almost done with high school and goes to parties and has a fake ID. But she acts like a 12 year old. I know I have mentioned this before, but I can't stand grown women calling their father 'Daddy' constantly. Once or twice, ok fine she loves her dad, but Mia calls her father nothing else! She doesn't even like her father and is constantly explaining why. But not only does Mia call her father 'Daddy', so does everyone else in the novel! That makes absolutely no sense. Mia does not act like I expected a young girl her age in her situation to, at all. It didn't match up in my head.
- Since this is basically a book being split into novellas, I feel like the story was rushed and disjointed. I personally don't like the idea of splitting a story up into novellas. I would much rather read a nice, thick book that feels complete than broken episodes, which is what I feel this is.
- The main theme in this story is surviving rape. I think that is definitely a story that needs to be told, but I don't think it was told extremely well here. Other aspects of the story (plot, characters) fell really flat and didn't have the development that one would expect.
Overall, I flew through this novella quickly, but I was just itching to be done and move on to something else. It wasn't particularly vivid, I will most likely forget it, and I wasn't moved enough to want to read the next ones.
This is a novella, the first of six, that follow Mia, a young, rich girl whose father is a prominent politician. This novella covers some dark topics: rape and abuse. That being said, and having read quite a few books with this topic, I didn't feel this novella did it as well as others. The writing was fine, definitely better than some, but there are some specific reasons I didn't like this novella.
- First of all, Mia acts very immature. This is a girl, a young woman really, who is almost done with high school and goes to parties and has a fake ID. But she acts like a 12 year old. I know I have mentioned this before, but I can't stand grown women calling their father 'Daddy' constantly. Once or twice, ok fine she loves her dad, but Mia calls her father nothing else! She doesn't even like her father and is constantly explaining why. But not only does Mia call her father 'Daddy', so does everyone else in the novel! That makes absolutely no sense. Mia does not act like I expected a young girl her age in her situation to, at all. It didn't match up in my head.
- Since this is basically a book being split into novellas, I feel like the story was rushed and disjointed. I personally don't like the idea of splitting a story up into novellas. I would much rather read a nice, thick book that feels complete than broken episodes, which is what I feel this is.
- The main theme in this story is surviving rape. I think that is definitely a story that needs to be told, but I don't think it was told extremely well here. Other aspects of the story (plot, characters) fell really flat and didn't have the development that one would expect.
Overall, I flew through this novella quickly, but I was just itching to be done and move on to something else. It wasn't particularly vivid, I will most likely forget it, and I wasn't moved enough to want to read the next ones.
August 6, 2016
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to Indie Inked and Netgalley.)
Mia wakes to realise that she has been raped and beaten. When she accuses her attacker, her father’s lawyer basically stops her from really pointing the finger, convincing her that it will hurt her father’s campaign for a political re-election.
Who attacked Mia? And will she have the guts to stand up and fight for justice?
This was an okay story, but it was really frustrating the things that happened to Mia, and the way that her father treated her.
Mia seemed like a fairly normal girl, who had to cope with unrealistic expectations from her father. As if being raped wasn’t bad enough, she then had to deal with her father trying to turn what happened to her to his advantage! Who gives a poo about his campaign – Mia was raped and deserves justice.
That was quite honestly the worst part of this book, not the rape. The way that her father’s lawyer and publicist basically stopped Mia from telling the truth about what had happened to her, told her that she couldn’t accuse the man who she knew had raped her because he was her father’s campaign-partner’s son, and then stopped her from having the morning after pill because he was campaigning against abortion and the morning after pill?! Crazy! Evil! And so darn frustrating! I felt like punching him for her. What an awful way to treat your daughter!
The ending to this was a bit of a cliff-hanger, and left me even angrier at Mia’s father. I might read the next part of this series, but I’m too angry to read it right now!
Overall; frustrating story about a girl who was raped, and the treatment she received afterwards.
6.5 out of 10.
Mia wakes to realise that she has been raped and beaten. When she accuses her attacker, her father’s lawyer basically stops her from really pointing the finger, convincing her that it will hurt her father’s campaign for a political re-election.
Who attacked Mia? And will she have the guts to stand up and fight for justice?
This was an okay story, but it was really frustrating the things that happened to Mia, and the way that her father treated her.
Mia seemed like a fairly normal girl, who had to cope with unrealistic expectations from her father. As if being raped wasn’t bad enough, she then had to deal with her father trying to turn what happened to her to his advantage! Who gives a poo about his campaign – Mia was raped and deserves justice.
That was quite honestly the worst part of this book, not the rape. The way that her father’s lawyer and publicist basically stopped Mia from telling the truth about what had happened to her, told her that she couldn’t accuse the man who she knew had raped her because he was her father’s campaign-partner’s son, and then stopped her from having the morning after pill because he was campaigning against abortion and the morning after pill?! Crazy! Evil! And so darn frustrating! I felt like punching him for her. What an awful way to treat your daughter!
The ending to this was a bit of a cliff-hanger, and left me even angrier at Mia’s father. I might read the next part of this series, but I’m too angry to read it right now!
Overall; frustrating story about a girl who was raped, and the treatment she received afterwards.
6.5 out of 10.
March 5, 2015
This was a book I requested from Indie Inked via Net Galley. I'm quite late in getting to this read as it slipped to the bottom of my pile.
This is an awful story of Mia Abbott-Renou who wakes up one morning in a garden, naked, bruised, hurt and terrified. She cannot remember first hand what the hell happened.
She's been raped by the son of a wealthy politician who happens to be her own father’s political ally.
When she tells of this horrific crime that has happened to her all her Father can think about is himself and how the wrong attention would affect his political career. I was sooooo angry with his family for putting Mia through this awful ordeal. Being raped was enough, no support from her family because of they're own selfishness is quite abhorrent.
I hoped and prayed that Mia would have the courage to turn her back on what her family wants, most of all, what her Father wants and just report the crime and get the sod arrested!
I can't tell you what happens.
There is a book 2 that will though.
This was well written, Mia was quite immature at times, not sure if that is how the author wanted her to be portrayed. I could relate to the characters, so all in all, a pretty good read.
3.5 stars
March 19, 2014
ARC recieved via NetGalley
I really enjoyed reading this book.
This book focuses on the subject of rape and how it can affect the victim mentally and physically. I thought it was beautifully written and it was easy to connect to the character Mia to experience things from her perspective. Personally, I thought that this story sounded quite realistic which I liked.
Mia struggles with what the right thing to do is- get justice for what was done to her or help her family's political career. There are people who want her to get the justice she deserves as well as thoses who want her to keep quite. I imagine in real life rape cases, there are both of these types of people. I didn't like Mia's family one little bit...she was beaten and raped yet they hardly seemed to care. I loved Dom on the other hand...he showed Mia that there is people in the world that do give a damn.
I definely want to continue reading Mia's story- I enjoyed this book plus with that ending, I need to know what happens.
I really enjoyed reading this book.
This book focuses on the subject of rape and how it can affect the victim mentally and physically. I thought it was beautifully written and it was easy to connect to the character Mia to experience things from her perspective. Personally, I thought that this story sounded quite realistic which I liked.
Mia struggles with what the right thing to do is- get justice for what was done to her or help her family's political career. There are people who want her to get the justice she deserves as well as thoses who want her to keep quite. I imagine in real life rape cases, there are both of these types of people. I didn't like Mia's family one little bit...she was beaten and raped yet they hardly seemed to care. I loved Dom on the other hand...he showed Mia that there is people in the world that do give a damn.
I definely want to continue reading Mia's story- I enjoyed this book plus with that ending, I need to know what happens.
January 2, 2014
I don't know where to start with this review. This book was so graphic and the story was so horrible, I never wish anyone to go through what Mia went through. However, I am disappointed the author decided to make a series of novellas. I felt certain parts of this novella were too drawn out, while others were too short. I wish the story was one complete novel that I could read from start to finish. I want to know what happens to Mia and what she decides to do, however I do not see me purchasing the rest of the series to actually find out.
January 5, 2014
Thank you Netgalley for providing this ARC. Thank you Chloe Adams for writing the story.
This is a story about a brutal crime, RAPE. Mia Abbott-Renou is the daughter of a very powerful man, a US Senator and she is raped by one of his best supporter's son. The writing is captivating. It is emotional and thought provoking. You feel the horrible, and shame of Mia. How can someone go through this horrible ordeal only to be cast aside? The only issue I have is this series will come out in 6 mini parts, every two months. I rather have two books and be done with it.
This is a story about a brutal crime, RAPE. Mia Abbott-Renou is the daughter of a very powerful man, a US Senator and she is raped by one of his best supporter's son. The writing is captivating. It is emotional and thought provoking. You feel the horrible, and shame of Mia. How can someone go through this horrible ordeal only to be cast aside? The only issue I have is this series will come out in 6 mini parts, every two months. I rather have two books and be done with it.
January 1, 2017
So sad.
I was in two minds whether or not to read this book but i chose to go ahead with it. It is absolutely heart wrenching and so emotional. It is so sad that this happens to millions of woman all over the world, positively heartbreaking.
I was in two minds whether or not to read this book but i chose to go ahead with it. It is absolutely heart wrenching and so emotional. It is so sad that this happens to millions of woman all over the world, positively heartbreaking.
October 11, 2022
I received an e-copy of this book from the publishers at NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
NetGalley has almost become a 1-click request obsession with me. I find all these assorted books that intrigue and perplex me so I request them and then end up with so many I don't know how I will ever read them all. This book was one of those impulsive requests. I had heard good things about Lizzy Ford and was curious to see what her hard-hitting novella about such a tragic subject would be like. As someone who has dealt with such issues on a personal basis, I am impulsively drawn to read Mia's story.
Mia's life is what dreams are made of. Rich, powerful, and adored by many, how could anything bad ever touch her? But, of course, bad things can effect even those from privileged stations. Mia attends a party with a fake ID and a hope of cutting loose and having fun. What she gets instead is a traumatic event in which she is beaten, raped and left in a garden like garbage. Mia's night is a blur of agony and devastation.
The officers that find her are her only saving graces when her family is less than thrilled (or even concerned) about Mia's attack. Her political father seems more concerned with damage control and twisting the story for his own gain than whether his damaged daughter is well. Mia is left feeling utterly alone.
The situation only gets worse as Mia struggles to understand what happened to her and how she can find justice for herself and other victims of her attackers while still abiding by her family's wishes. If she stays quiet can she stand to look in the mirror? If she speaks up will she lose the only family she has ever known?
I was in tears almost the entire 78 pages of this book. Mia's experiences and lack of empathy from the people who are predestined to love her, makes me feel sick inside. How could people who are your blood and even the man who gave you life be more concerned with image and social standing than with the sanity and mental fortitude of someone like Mia? There is no way anyone in Mia's situation would be able to deal with that sort of issue without any sort of support. And to top it off? Being told to choose between standing by your family or seeking justice against your attacker? Who gives a young girl that sort of ultimatum?
To say I enjoyed the book would not feel right to me. It was beautifully written, the characters were believable, and the subject, albeit a bit touchy, is something a lot of women can relate to. Rape is a horridly tragic crime to which no one should ever have to experience. I think this book is a wonderful fictional account of how rape victims deal with life afterwards. Not many people give much though to how a rape victim adjusts and lives in constant fear after they are violated. I think Broken Beauty should be read by women worldwide. It helps to understand that it DOES happen to other people.
Broken Beauty is designed to make it's reader's hearts ache with sorrow and empathy for it's young protagonist, Mia. It is a poignant tale of violence, emotional trauma, and the struggle to hold it all together and heal physically, mentally and emotionally.
February 2, 2017
This was so good and also so sad and made me furious. Just to think about going through a rape and getting zero support from your family. Your own father tells lies about not getting pregnant by rape and the people closest to you want you to say that it was your fault. It breaks my heart to think that it stills is possible to get away with false information about women health issues and handing the guilt card to rape victims. A great story which deserves to be told to as many readers as possible.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, NetGalley and Captured Press!
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, NetGalley and Captured Press!
January 4, 2018
I'm going to confess I thought this was a bit trashy at the start, but it really quickly took a great turn and I highly recommend it! Dammit cliffhanger though. The story feels like it was a bit inspired by that Brock Turner jerk, it has that sort of "essence" to it where the villain is super privileged and the victim ends up the one under attack. Short and compelling.
December 20, 2013
I received this ARC from Netgalley for an honest review.
Warning.....Does contain a rape scene!!
This is the first of 6 novellas chronicling Mia's struggles and triumphs. It says the novellas will be released over the course of a year, tentatively every 2 months (to give you a heads up if you are not a cliffhanger lover)
This book is about almost 18 year old Mia Abbott-Renou. She is the youngest daughter of a wealthy politician. When the book starts, Mia decided to go to a party (with a fake ID)instead of an event for her father where she ended up getting drugged and raped by 2 guys. One she knows, Robert Conner, the son of a wealthy man AND one of her fathers most important allies. Mia is found by two police officers, Dom and Keisha, who she feels safe with and insists they stay by her side. Because of this her father sends his attorney, who is also Mia's uncle Chris to see her at the hospital because he is "to busy" to see that she keeps quiet about WHO the person was (grrrrr)The Drs want her to take the morning after pill but her father is against abortion and will not allow it. (He had told Mia in the past that in events like rape, you couldn't get pregnant, so at the time, she isn't really worried about it)
My heart breaks for Mia because other than her friend Ari, she is basically alone. Her mother is in rehab because she is an alcoholic and her father is off to busy to come see his own daughter cleaning up the mess of it all.
Eventually Mia has to go to the police station for questioning over her fake ID and drinking where she is charged for possession of a fraudulent ID and identity theft because the guy she got the ID from stole it. She is sentenced to do 100 hours community service and to see a counselor. The DA then tells her she will be booked, processed, charged and then released upon telling them who she got the ID from. When she agrees but says she does not want her lawyer present they take her back for questioning. When they go to get on the elevator, the one person she feels safest with and her guardian angel Dom is there. Once in the interview room they also inform her that there have been other rapes by the same 2 men and try to get her to admit who the men are. Once the DA knows he is getting no where he steps out and leaves Dom to see if he can get her to open up which crushes her. She doesn't talk and she can see the disappointment in his eyes but he finally drives her home where he gives her his card and his sisters card at a womens shelter if she ever decides to open up or talk.
Once she goes in the house, Chris asks her what kind of community service she wants to do and she chooses to do it at the women's shelter where Dom's sister works. Once she starts, she is not to thrilled with the place but she tries her best. One evening as she is walking down the hall a nurse yells for her to come help her and asks her to take some urine samples up to the next floor for testing. Once she does a nurse named Ricki tells her they are actually urine samples to be tested for pregnancy. When they stick the test strips in all 20 bottles, they all turn pink which means pregnant so they do it over and over again thinking it has to be defective somehow. Finally Ricki tells Mia that they are also gonna try it just to see if they can get different results. Once she sticks her strip in, it turns pink!!! She begins to freak and goes into a closet where she is closing herself off and going into her own little world. She can hear voices trying to bring her out of it but it does no good. Finally, she hears a voice she knows and trust....DOM. Dom drives her home and once they pull in the driveway she sees her daddy's car which is still running so she knows he is planning on leaving so she goes in to confront him. Once she does, she asks him why he lied to her and he wants to know about what and she says about getting pregnant when your raped and her uncle Chris speaks up and says "are you pregnant" and she tells him yes. Her dad says so your going to be a mother and she says NO and he says you know this family doesn't believe in abortion and she says you don't but I can't live with this. He tells her she can't kill an innocent life and she depends to know what about her life, what about the fact that I was raped. He tells her what happened to her is every fathers nightmare but she can't commit another sin by having an abortion and then.................................damn cliffhanger!!!!!
What will happen with Mia? Will she have an abortion? Will she finally start the process to put the two who raped her in jail? I can see the connection with Mia and Dom, when she turns 18 will there finally be love for the two of them? OMG, there is so many questions. I need the other books like NOW!!
This is a great read, I would def recommend. My only complaint about this book is its just to short.(I think it is about 85 pages)
Warning.....Does contain a rape scene!!
This is the first of 6 novellas chronicling Mia's struggles and triumphs. It says the novellas will be released over the course of a year, tentatively every 2 months (to give you a heads up if you are not a cliffhanger lover)
This book is about almost 18 year old Mia Abbott-Renou. She is the youngest daughter of a wealthy politician. When the book starts, Mia decided to go to a party (with a fake ID)instead of an event for her father where she ended up getting drugged and raped by 2 guys. One she knows, Robert Conner, the son of a wealthy man AND one of her fathers most important allies. Mia is found by two police officers, Dom and Keisha, who she feels safe with and insists they stay by her side. Because of this her father sends his attorney, who is also Mia's uncle Chris to see her at the hospital because he is "to busy" to see that she keeps quiet about WHO the person was (grrrrr)The Drs want her to take the morning after pill but her father is against abortion and will not allow it. (He had told Mia in the past that in events like rape, you couldn't get pregnant, so at the time, she isn't really worried about it)
My heart breaks for Mia because other than her friend Ari, she is basically alone. Her mother is in rehab because she is an alcoholic and her father is off to busy to come see his own daughter cleaning up the mess of it all.
Eventually Mia has to go to the police station for questioning over her fake ID and drinking where she is charged for possession of a fraudulent ID and identity theft because the guy she got the ID from stole it. She is sentenced to do 100 hours community service and to see a counselor. The DA then tells her she will be booked, processed, charged and then released upon telling them who she got the ID from. When she agrees but says she does not want her lawyer present they take her back for questioning. When they go to get on the elevator, the one person she feels safest with and her guardian angel Dom is there. Once in the interview room they also inform her that there have been other rapes by the same 2 men and try to get her to admit who the men are. Once the DA knows he is getting no where he steps out and leaves Dom to see if he can get her to open up which crushes her. She doesn't talk and she can see the disappointment in his eyes but he finally drives her home where he gives her his card and his sisters card at a womens shelter if she ever decides to open up or talk.
Once she goes in the house, Chris asks her what kind of community service she wants to do and she chooses to do it at the women's shelter where Dom's sister works. Once she starts, she is not to thrilled with the place but she tries her best. One evening as she is walking down the hall a nurse yells for her to come help her and asks her to take some urine samples up to the next floor for testing. Once she does a nurse named Ricki tells her they are actually urine samples to be tested for pregnancy. When they stick the test strips in all 20 bottles, they all turn pink which means pregnant so they do it over and over again thinking it has to be defective somehow. Finally Ricki tells Mia that they are also gonna try it just to see if they can get different results. Once she sticks her strip in, it turns pink!!! She begins to freak and goes into a closet where she is closing herself off and going into her own little world. She can hear voices trying to bring her out of it but it does no good. Finally, she hears a voice she knows and trust....DOM. Dom drives her home and once they pull in the driveway she sees her daddy's car which is still running so she knows he is planning on leaving so she goes in to confront him. Once she does, she asks him why he lied to her and he wants to know about what and she says about getting pregnant when your raped and her uncle Chris speaks up and says "are you pregnant" and she tells him yes. Her dad says so your going to be a mother and she says NO and he says you know this family doesn't believe in abortion and she says you don't but I can't live with this. He tells her she can't kill an innocent life and she depends to know what about her life, what about the fact that I was raped. He tells her what happened to her is every fathers nightmare but she can't commit another sin by having an abortion and then.................................damn cliffhanger!!!!!
What will happen with Mia? Will she have an abortion? Will she finally start the process to put the two who raped her in jail? I can see the connection with Mia and Dom, when she turns 18 will there finally be love for the two of them? OMG, there is so many questions. I need the other books like NOW!!
This is a great read, I would def recommend. My only complaint about this book is its just to short.(I think it is about 85 pages)
February 5, 2014
INITIAL THOUGHTS
I saw this novella whilst searching Netgalley and was at a point where I wanted to read something other than my usual genre that also wasn't YA aimed. So when I saw this I requested it, was accepted and I decided to read it straight away.
I wasn't sure what to expect after reading the warning about the book being about rape.
MY REVIEW
The cover shows a female looking upset and kind of hiding behind her hair. Upon reading the book I'd say the female fits the imagery I get from the book for the main character of Mia.
The story begins at a traumatic time for Mia as the police rescue her after she has been raped by two men. Mia is taken to the hospital by the two police officers that found her, a female officer called Keisha and a young male officer called Dom. Dom and Mia really befriend Mia and make her feel safe after her ordeal. In fact during her examination and the aftermath of the rape they are the only people Mia feels care about her. Her own father is in politics and is more interested in keeping the rape out of the news. When the story turns up in the newspapers he uses Mia to gain the abused women votes. The only time Mia's father seems to take any notice is to issue his staff with orders to give Mia. Chris is a the "law man" on Mia's fathers staff and also her Uncle, so it hits Mia even more when she is told to "forget" who did this to her as the perpetrator is the son of someone who is very important and Mia's father need the families support to keep votes. Mia is made to give a speech, a speech that her father press women Shea, has wrote. Mia has never faced the press before but she is really given no choice but to give the speech with only the support of her best friend Ari. Mia does hesitate and leaves out part of the speech as it is making out the whole thing was her own fault. Sure Mia was drinking underage, in a rather flashy dress with a Fake ID but that doesn't excuse her attackers does it? Mia is actually charged for having a Fake ID and underage drinking and her Uncle Chris manages to get an "easy" sentence of 100 hours community service. Its whilst doing the community service that Mia does a pregnancy test to check some pregnancy test strips are giving false results . . .I mean there is no way that the test is right, that she's pregnant is there? Mia's father told her that you couldn't become pregnant when you are raped . . .and he wouldn't authorize her to have the morning after pill as in his political career he is against pregnancy termination in any way.
This novella tells of how Mia has to cope relatively alone with the aftermath of the rape, sure her father has her see a "shrink" another distant relative to help her.
This book does deal with the very sensitive subject of rape and I have to say it is written about in a realistic, believable and really insightful yet delicate way.
So did I enjoy the book? I thought it was a brilliantly written book about a highly sensitive subject. Would I recommend the book? I do recommend it, sadly it's no longer available on Netgalley but I checked the price as I was writing this review and at 49p I'd says it's a bargain! I've recommended it to my mum and daughter already too. I think it would fit from the New Adult age group upwards. Would I read another novella in this series? I am about to start reading Broken World on my kindle. I bought it immediately upon finishing Broken Beauty. Would I read other books by this Author? I will definitely be taking a closer look at other titles by this author, both as Chloe Adams and Lizzy Ford.
I saw this novella whilst searching Netgalley and was at a point where I wanted to read something other than my usual genre that also wasn't YA aimed. So when I saw this I requested it, was accepted and I decided to read it straight away.
I wasn't sure what to expect after reading the warning about the book being about rape.
MY REVIEW
The cover shows a female looking upset and kind of hiding behind her hair. Upon reading the book I'd say the female fits the imagery I get from the book for the main character of Mia.
The story begins at a traumatic time for Mia as the police rescue her after she has been raped by two men. Mia is taken to the hospital by the two police officers that found her, a female officer called Keisha and a young male officer called Dom. Dom and Mia really befriend Mia and make her feel safe after her ordeal. In fact during her examination and the aftermath of the rape they are the only people Mia feels care about her. Her own father is in politics and is more interested in keeping the rape out of the news. When the story turns up in the newspapers he uses Mia to gain the abused women votes. The only time Mia's father seems to take any notice is to issue his staff with orders to give Mia. Chris is a the "law man" on Mia's fathers staff and also her Uncle, so it hits Mia even more when she is told to "forget" who did this to her as the perpetrator is the son of someone who is very important and Mia's father need the families support to keep votes. Mia is made to give a speech, a speech that her father press women Shea, has wrote. Mia has never faced the press before but she is really given no choice but to give the speech with only the support of her best friend Ari. Mia does hesitate and leaves out part of the speech as it is making out the whole thing was her own fault. Sure Mia was drinking underage, in a rather flashy dress with a Fake ID but that doesn't excuse her attackers does it? Mia is actually charged for having a Fake ID and underage drinking and her Uncle Chris manages to get an "easy" sentence of 100 hours community service. Its whilst doing the community service that Mia does a pregnancy test to check some pregnancy test strips are giving false results . . .I mean there is no way that the test is right, that she's pregnant is there? Mia's father told her that you couldn't become pregnant when you are raped . . .and he wouldn't authorize her to have the morning after pill as in his political career he is against pregnancy termination in any way.
This novella tells of how Mia has to cope relatively alone with the aftermath of the rape, sure her father has her see a "shrink" another distant relative to help her.
This book does deal with the very sensitive subject of rape and I have to say it is written about in a realistic, believable and really insightful yet delicate way.
So did I enjoy the book? I thought it was a brilliantly written book about a highly sensitive subject. Would I recommend the book? I do recommend it, sadly it's no longer available on Netgalley but I checked the price as I was writing this review and at 49p I'd says it's a bargain! I've recommended it to my mum and daughter already too. I think it would fit from the New Adult age group upwards. Would I read another novella in this series? I am about to start reading Broken World on my kindle. I bought it immediately upon finishing Broken Beauty. Would I read other books by this Author? I will definitely be taking a closer look at other titles by this author, both as Chloe Adams and Lizzy Ford.
January 26, 2014
These books are not for the faint of heart! Lizzy Ford has written a heart wrenching story. These novellas are written in the first person perspective of Mia Abbott-Renou, and are so beautifully written that I am in awe. Mrs. Ford bravely took on several sensitive topics such as rape, and the politics surrounding Rape that we've heard in the news in recent years, and did it with such grace that you have no choice but to feel empathy for Mia.
After reading both novellas in one night I sat thinking about how to write this review in a way that would do this story Justice.
In Broken Beauty, the first of the novellas, it starts with a very confused Mia just having been assaulted. The first scenes were written in such great detail that you can feel her confusion and pain. Throughout the first chapters you go through the experience with Mia,from waking up feeling confused, to the humiliation of being photographed at the hospital. Imagine going through all of this as a 17 year old like Mia? Throughout the first Novella you will see Mia try to deal with her Rape and the aftermath. She realizes to late that the people in her life she trusts the most to look out for her have ulterior motives, Her daddy,who is in the middle of a re-election campaign sends what amounts to his clean up team in when she's in the hospital to let them know that because in his eyes "you can't get pregnant from rape" he will not be giving his consent for the morning after pill. When Mia finally makes it home she is given a statement to read to the press by one of her half siblings that basically says she's sorry for being raped.
There were parts in both of these books that had me in tears, wanting to scream at the top of my lungs that what's happening is not fair. I was so frustrated with the way this girl was being treated by the people who are supposed to be protecting her, while instead they were treating her as though she's a pawn in some game of political chess.
By the end of Broken beauty I was Heartbroken but determined to find out what was going to happen next.
Broken World picks up right where Broken Beauty left off, which is nice as most sequels jump forward a bit. Throughout Broken World you watch as Mia starts to find her voice again. She has so much strength and courage that it really is inspiring. Again and not surprisingly, Lizzy Ford paints you a vivid picture of the trials Mia is facing and she does it in a way that makes you want to cheer her on.
Typically I would feel uncomfortable reading about someones assault, but this story was written with such care that not once did I feel like I was intruding on someones private experience.
Broken world finds Mia in a compromising position, defy her father, who she has only ever wanted approval and understanding from, or disappoint her hero, the man who found her broken and bleeding and has stood by her side since. Mia finds some unlikely allies in this novella, who even in their attempts to help her are still using these attempts to manipulate the situation for political gain. Will Mia find the support she's looking for to be able to stand up and do what she believes is the right thing, or will she continue to let her father manipulate the situation for her so that it will all just go away?
Thank you Mrs. Ford for having the courage to share this story! I am eager to read what happens next for Mia!
After reading both novellas in one night I sat thinking about how to write this review in a way that would do this story Justice.
In Broken Beauty, the first of the novellas, it starts with a very confused Mia just having been assaulted. The first scenes were written in such great detail that you can feel her confusion and pain. Throughout the first chapters you go through the experience with Mia,from waking up feeling confused, to the humiliation of being photographed at the hospital. Imagine going through all of this as a 17 year old like Mia? Throughout the first Novella you will see Mia try to deal with her Rape and the aftermath. She realizes to late that the people in her life she trusts the most to look out for her have ulterior motives, Her daddy,who is in the middle of a re-election campaign sends what amounts to his clean up team in when she's in the hospital to let them know that because in his eyes "you can't get pregnant from rape" he will not be giving his consent for the morning after pill. When Mia finally makes it home she is given a statement to read to the press by one of her half siblings that basically says she's sorry for being raped.
There were parts in both of these books that had me in tears, wanting to scream at the top of my lungs that what's happening is not fair. I was so frustrated with the way this girl was being treated by the people who are supposed to be protecting her, while instead they were treating her as though she's a pawn in some game of political chess.
By the end of Broken beauty I was Heartbroken but determined to find out what was going to happen next.
Broken World picks up right where Broken Beauty left off, which is nice as most sequels jump forward a bit. Throughout Broken World you watch as Mia starts to find her voice again. She has so much strength and courage that it really is inspiring. Again and not surprisingly, Lizzy Ford paints you a vivid picture of the trials Mia is facing and she does it in a way that makes you want to cheer her on.
Typically I would feel uncomfortable reading about someones assault, but this story was written with such care that not once did I feel like I was intruding on someones private experience.
Broken world finds Mia in a compromising position, defy her father, who she has only ever wanted approval and understanding from, or disappoint her hero, the man who found her broken and bleeding and has stood by her side since. Mia finds some unlikely allies in this novella, who even in their attempts to help her are still using these attempts to manipulate the situation for political gain. Will Mia find the support she's looking for to be able to stand up and do what she believes is the right thing, or will she continue to let her father manipulate the situation for her so that it will all just go away?
Thank you Mrs. Ford for having the courage to share this story! I am eager to read what happens next for Mia!
February 5, 2022
**Received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
It should be noted, while this is marketed as a novella it reads more like the opening chapters of a larger story. This is not a stand alone read; you will need to read Broken World and Broken Chains to get full closure on Mia's story.
That's said, if you can persevere with the difficult subject matter Lizzy Ford does a reasonable job of conveying what it might be like to experience "date rape" and the after math.
As the reader, I really felt for Mia because despite her traumatic ordeal she was repeatedly let down by her family too.
I would have preferred to read this as one, full story rather than three shorter books. But they were still worth the read. I didn't appreciate the price tag of the third book though, given the fact they are novella lengths.
There doesn't seem to have been any plot reason for three books, simply revenue and sales, which just seems ridiculous (and greedy) given the lengths of each.
It should be noted, while this is marketed as a novella it reads more like the opening chapters of a larger story. This is not a stand alone read; you will need to read Broken World and Broken Chains to get full closure on Mia's story.
That's said, if you can persevere with the difficult subject matter Lizzy Ford does a reasonable job of conveying what it might be like to experience "date rape" and the after math.
As the reader, I really felt for Mia because despite her traumatic ordeal she was repeatedly let down by her family too.
I would have preferred to read this as one, full story rather than three shorter books. But they were still worth the read. I didn't appreciate the price tag of the third book though, given the fact they are novella lengths.
There doesn't seem to have been any plot reason for three books, simply revenue and sales, which just seems ridiculous (and greedy) given the lengths of each.
January 16, 2014
ARC from NetGalley for honest review!!
Mia Abbot-Renou is a 17yr old high school student with a politician father. He pretty much chooses his career over her and so she is left by herself quite often. She decides to get a fake ID and goes to a party alone to have a little fun. After a few drinks she meets a very handsome man and he offers to buy her a drink. He’s in line talking to a friend of his and all she can think is how perfect his but is, so she takes a picture of it then send it to her best friend Ari.
She hears sirens and people talking close by while she sleeps but hasn’t yet opened her eyes. Shes cold not believing she didn’t cover up before passing out but then she starts to feel the hard ground, smelling trees, and something strange. She hears someone trying to rouse her but the voices aren’t familiar but as she opens her eyes she blinded by light. Shes told they are the police and to keep calm. Her eyes become blurry and starts remembering what has happened.
There was someone on top of her smelling of whiskey and grunting while she struggled. She feels pain tearing her from the inside but she cant move because he’s holding her hands above her head.
She comes back to the present time, screaming and trying to escape. Her memory clears to show her that two police officers are there helping her and telling her shes safe but to stay awake in case of a concussion. They ask if there’s someone that they can call and the only one she wants is her best friend Ari.
She starts fading into her memories again as she shoves the blond man and runs. The dark haired one grabs her, lifts her up and slams her to the ground. She scrambles up but he kicks her hard then kneels over her, and hits her in the face. She goes to an in-between place, where shes aware of the world but can’t react to it. Mia feels the pain between her legs like he’s tearing her apart. The blonde man is back, takes his place but she tries to move, nothing happens and he flips her over then steps away. She lays there sobbing and all she can do is scream.
She becomes historical when she comes back to the present feeling like shes going to be left alone in the middle of hell. The police help her and the male police officer Dom, seems sweet and reminds her of her grandpa. He lifts her and holds her close refusing to leave her. She feels an instant connection to him and he is the only thing keeping her sane at the moment. Does her father come to the rescue? Who are these men?
I have to say this was a short read but so hard to review without telling the whole story. I DID NOT want to put this book down. The characters were believable and at times riveting. I was on the edge of my seat one minute and wanting to cover my eyes in others. GREAT WORK CHLOE!! I give this book a solid FIVE stars!!
Mia Abbot-Renou is a 17yr old high school student with a politician father. He pretty much chooses his career over her and so she is left by herself quite often. She decides to get a fake ID and goes to a party alone to have a little fun. After a few drinks she meets a very handsome man and he offers to buy her a drink. He’s in line talking to a friend of his and all she can think is how perfect his but is, so she takes a picture of it then send it to her best friend Ari.
She hears sirens and people talking close by while she sleeps but hasn’t yet opened her eyes. Shes cold not believing she didn’t cover up before passing out but then she starts to feel the hard ground, smelling trees, and something strange. She hears someone trying to rouse her but the voices aren’t familiar but as she opens her eyes she blinded by light. Shes told they are the police and to keep calm. Her eyes become blurry and starts remembering what has happened.
There was someone on top of her smelling of whiskey and grunting while she struggled. She feels pain tearing her from the inside but she cant move because he’s holding her hands above her head.
She comes back to the present time, screaming and trying to escape. Her memory clears to show her that two police officers are there helping her and telling her shes safe but to stay awake in case of a concussion. They ask if there’s someone that they can call and the only one she wants is her best friend Ari.
She starts fading into her memories again as she shoves the blond man and runs. The dark haired one grabs her, lifts her up and slams her to the ground. She scrambles up but he kicks her hard then kneels over her, and hits her in the face. She goes to an in-between place, where shes aware of the world but can’t react to it. Mia feels the pain between her legs like he’s tearing her apart. The blonde man is back, takes his place but she tries to move, nothing happens and he flips her over then steps away. She lays there sobbing and all she can do is scream.
She becomes historical when she comes back to the present feeling like shes going to be left alone in the middle of hell. The police help her and the male police officer Dom, seems sweet and reminds her of her grandpa. He lifts her and holds her close refusing to leave her. She feels an instant connection to him and he is the only thing keeping her sane at the moment. Does her father come to the rescue? Who are these men?
I have to say this was a short read but so hard to review without telling the whole story. I DID NOT want to put this book down. The characters were believable and at times riveting. I was on the edge of my seat one minute and wanting to cover my eyes in others. GREAT WORK CHLOE!! I give this book a solid FIVE stars!!
September 9, 2016
***NOTE: I know I've refrained from posting negative reviews, but I feel very strongly about this book.***
The purpose of Broken Beauty, I assume, is to construct a deeply moving story about a young politician’s daughter who is restricted from speaking up; however, I found the entire story (or the first installment) flat and not very-well thought-out, resulting in a severe lack of character development and cringe-worthy plot.
Firstly, the characters had cookie-cutter personalities with a strict role and little character development. The main character strikes me as a Mary-sue, because not only does she deprive of little, but that she is flawless in aspect of her personality. The one instance which I will never forget is when she tells Shea that “she [Mia] hopes that she [Shea] gets raped.” This alone baffled me beyond words, because the pain of rape isn’t something that should be taken so lightly, and to wish such an awful thing to another person? I was sickened by her portrayal; and even more so when basically all the characters like Mia, despite her awful, materialistic personality.
Secondly, the actual rape itself felt forced and was extremely unbelievable. No matter how well somebody can drug another, they wouldn’t choose a target who can fight back. Another instance where I was baffled by Mia’s awful personality was when they showed the victims of rape –other people connected to her own past– and she didn’t feel a thing. Not only has that, but a lot of the plot revolved around Mia’s stupidity of believing that “you can’t get pregnant from being raped.” Any fifth-grader can identity a flaw in that argument; the fact she couldn’t is another forced fact. Other downfalls of the plot include the obvious dwelling on unnecessary information –to prolong the installation, I believe– and the addition of a best friend with no purpose. The best friend is typically happy, carefree and exists solely to keep Mia company, nothing more.
Overall, what could have been a good novella ended up feeling flat. I am surprised I manage to get through the entire instalment, as there were too many things I disliked; however, that’s not to say there weren’t positive things, such as the truly insightful exchanges between Mia’s psychologist, the aspect of having a pregnant mother and the other rape victims to add suspense. Unfortunately, the positives did not outweigh the negatives, and I will not be reading the next instalment in the series (although I’m happy to read the author’s other works, as I admire their writing style).
December 18, 2013
E-galley received through Netgalley for review
Broken Beauty is the first in a series of six novellas telling the story of Mia Abbott-Renou, the youngst daughter of a wealthy Southern politician. Shortly before her 18th birthday, Mia goes to a party, where she is drugged and raped by two guys. She remembers the name of one of her assailants: he's the son of a wealthy man and one of her father's most important supporters. Mia's father insists that she is not able to remember what happened exactly, so she cannot make accusations, and forbids her to go to the police. He also insists that she won't need the morning after pill.
With a distant father, a mother in rehab, and the attention of the press constantly on her, Mia can rely on very few people to make it through: her best friend Ari, and the officer who saved her the night of the assault, Dom.
Mia is a young woman from a privileged background. Her father is in politics, her elder stepsiblings, too, are public figures, and the whole family is preparing for her father's expected re-election. Mia's mother is an alcoholic who is currently in rehab, and her father is too busy with her job, so Mia is mostly left to herself. After the party where she is drugged, raped, and beaten, Mia is found by two police officers: Dom and Keisha. They bring her to the hospital, where Mia refuses to take the morning after pill. Her father is against it, claiming that women who are raped have a way of preventing a pregnancy.
Since she was drinking alcohol at the party using a fake ID, Mia is sentenced to social work. She decides to help at a women's help centre, where she also attends group therapy groups for rape victims. Lter she learns that her assailants also raped several other young women, and she's the only one who recognized them and could press charges. Yet she knows that doing so would severely hurt her father's re-election. Then a shocking discovery about her future sends Mia on a tailspin, and she doesn't know what to do.
Broken Beauty is a touching novella, and my only complaint is that it ends too soon. I want to know what happens next! I became quickly involved in Mia's story, and felt for her, being so alone with a father who cares more about being re-elected that caring for his daughter. His claims that raped women cannot get pregnant is simply too laughable, and you just know that he's going to be proved wrong soon.
One of the very few people supporting Mia is Dom, the young policeman who brings her to the hospital after her assault. Mia trusts him immediately, because he reminds her of her late grandfather. You can just see that he's going to be Mia's love interest in the next novellas - after she has turned eighteen, of course.
I definitely want to read more about Mia's story.
Broken Beauty is the first in a series of six novellas telling the story of Mia Abbott-Renou, the youngst daughter of a wealthy Southern politician. Shortly before her 18th birthday, Mia goes to a party, where she is drugged and raped by two guys. She remembers the name of one of her assailants: he's the son of a wealthy man and one of her father's most important supporters. Mia's father insists that she is not able to remember what happened exactly, so she cannot make accusations, and forbids her to go to the police. He also insists that she won't need the morning after pill.
With a distant father, a mother in rehab, and the attention of the press constantly on her, Mia can rely on very few people to make it through: her best friend Ari, and the officer who saved her the night of the assault, Dom.
Mia is a young woman from a privileged background. Her father is in politics, her elder stepsiblings, too, are public figures, and the whole family is preparing for her father's expected re-election. Mia's mother is an alcoholic who is currently in rehab, and her father is too busy with her job, so Mia is mostly left to herself. After the party where she is drugged, raped, and beaten, Mia is found by two police officers: Dom and Keisha. They bring her to the hospital, where Mia refuses to take the morning after pill. Her father is against it, claiming that women who are raped have a way of preventing a pregnancy.
Since she was drinking alcohol at the party using a fake ID, Mia is sentenced to social work. She decides to help at a women's help centre, where she also attends group therapy groups for rape victims. Lter she learns that her assailants also raped several other young women, and she's the only one who recognized them and could press charges. Yet she knows that doing so would severely hurt her father's re-election. Then a shocking discovery about her future sends Mia on a tailspin, and she doesn't know what to do.
Broken Beauty is a touching novella, and my only complaint is that it ends too soon. I want to know what happens next! I became quickly involved in Mia's story, and felt for her, being so alone with a father who cares more about being re-elected that caring for his daughter. His claims that raped women cannot get pregnant is simply too laughable, and you just know that he's going to be proved wrong soon.
One of the very few people supporting Mia is Dom, the young policeman who brings her to the hospital after her assault. Mia trusts him immediately, because he reminds her of her late grandfather. You can just see that he's going to be Mia's love interest in the next novellas - after she has turned eighteen, of course.
I definitely want to read more about Mia's story.
April 6, 2014
I reviewed this at MustReadBooksOrDie with my friend Shelley!
Court: I am not sure what I was expecting from a first installment in a novella series, but this definitely was not it! Wow. My mind is still somewhat blown by what I have read. In all of 85 pages, Chloe Adams takes us on quite a harrowing journey. I do have to thank the author for the note at the beginning giving us another warning and insight into what the book was about, how she went about writing it, and the effect it has had on readers so far. That was a really awesome tidbit, and I loved that...especially now knowing what I know. This is not for the faint of heart! Shel: The note at the beginning was perfect; I'm so glad she had it there and I hope it makes it in to every edition she publishes. This novel evoked a lot of strong emotion from me and even though I have so little time to read, I kinda want to find time to read the next book in this series..now.
Court: So...I have this thing called a rage boner. That is when I get really really really angry, and there really is no nice words that can be said. I tell Shelley I have this and she knows I'm really pretty dang angry...and that I am holding in all sorts of angst like behavior, pretty much short of throwing myself in the floor and wallering around like a toddler throwing a tantrum. So...now that I've cleared that up...OMELFG...WTF is wrong with these people! There are only I think 3...count 'em...three in this...okay...no FOUR people in this that I can stand. Every one else can seriously go fuck themselves because they are AWFUL! Wow. I have never hated a book family as much as this one...and we've had some doozys. So...for you fine people...I will try to tuck myself back...and chill out...so you can see that this is a very emotional story that will continue in atleast another installment from what I have researched (need to do some more of that...) and boy-o...all of that from 85 pages...yeah.
Shel: I concur with Courtney's expression of rage. The protagonist in this novella series has one of the worst things that can ever happen to you, happen. She has the support of her best friend and a stranger. Everyone else manipulates or uses her or makes her feel even worse than she already does. I was livid a good 90% of this novel...which, I suppose could be a bad thing but I see it as a sign of the writer completely sinking me in to her story. Don't let our anger scare you off..this is definitely a good read. Pick it up and let us know what you think.
Shelley: 4 Stars Courtney: 4 Stars
Court: I am not sure what I was expecting from a first installment in a novella series, but this definitely was not it! Wow. My mind is still somewhat blown by what I have read. In all of 85 pages, Chloe Adams takes us on quite a harrowing journey. I do have to thank the author for the note at the beginning giving us another warning and insight into what the book was about, how she went about writing it, and the effect it has had on readers so far. That was a really awesome tidbit, and I loved that...especially now knowing what I know. This is not for the faint of heart! Shel: The note at the beginning was perfect; I'm so glad she had it there and I hope it makes it in to every edition she publishes. This novel evoked a lot of strong emotion from me and even though I have so little time to read, I kinda want to find time to read the next book in this series..now.
Court: So...I have this thing called a rage boner. That is when I get really really really angry, and there really is no nice words that can be said. I tell Shelley I have this and she knows I'm really pretty dang angry...and that I am holding in all sorts of angst like behavior, pretty much short of throwing myself in the floor and wallering around like a toddler throwing a tantrum. So...now that I've cleared that up...OMELFG...WTF is wrong with these people! There are only I think 3...count 'em...three in this...okay...no FOUR people in this that I can stand. Every one else can seriously go fuck themselves because they are AWFUL! Wow. I have never hated a book family as much as this one...and we've had some doozys. So...for you fine people...I will try to tuck myself back...and chill out...so you can see that this is a very emotional story that will continue in atleast another installment from what I have researched (need to do some more of that...) and boy-o...all of that from 85 pages...yeah.
Shel: I concur with Courtney's expression of rage. The protagonist in this novella series has one of the worst things that can ever happen to you, happen. She has the support of her best friend and a stranger. Everyone else manipulates or uses her or makes her feel even worse than she already does. I was livid a good 90% of this novel...which, I suppose could be a bad thing but I see it as a sign of the writer completely sinking me in to her story. Don't let our anger scare you off..this is definitely a good read. Pick it up and let us know what you think.
Shelley: 4 Stars Courtney: 4 Stars
July 29, 2014
Wow, speechless! Lizzy Ford you amazed me and I thank you. What do you do when one faithful event changes you life forever? How do you pick up the pieces, when everything is scripted for you? Mia, is trying to live outside of her pretty packaged existence, and trusting someone who is an unsuspecting monster will be her biggest mistake.
"when you step outside, walk to the microphones. Give the greeting of your choice then read what's on the paper. Thank them and let me talk. Got it?"
Reading that was awful how could family dismiss something that is slowly destroying her, I admit being teary eyed reading this book. The ups and downs that Mia goes through is heartbreaking because her story could be anyone's. The fact that she is in constantly trying to pieces herself together while she is crumbling slowly is gut wrenching . Her mother tries to give her advice as best as she can.
"Chris is a good man, Mia. He comes across as a little cold, distant, but you can trust him to help you". -Mia's mother.
Mia's uncle Chris tries in his own way to help her, she starts going to therapy. She starts to miss the officers who found her, because at least they cared, she eyes something in her jewelry box that reminds her of one of them.
"...I noticed the quarter at the bottom of the box. It's the one I won from Dom after the silly game we played. For some reason, it makes me feel better. It's a reminder that there are good people out there, even if they aren't in my house"- Mia's thought
Dom, what can I say about Dom... he's a loving family man, and Mia's protector. Will he be able to convince Mia to come forward with the statement containing the names of her attacker or will her politically involved family come first?
".. The samples for the rape kit they did on you match those of these six women"
"I don't understand," I say.
"That means the two men who hurt you, hurt these women, too,"
In these few sevens Mia starts to realize she can help others like herself to receive justice.
"There is a difference between them and you," the DA continues. "You are the only one who can remember your attackers...""... You're the only one of seven victims who can remember. All of you had the same two attackers."
What will Mia do? what is yet to happen ? How far will her bravery reach? These answers will be reviled once you read this heartfelt book. Take it from me this book can be an eye opener, and shows the steps to healing aren't always easy. This was a therapeutic read for me. Please take the time and read this book it's an amazing read. Thank you Lizzy for being brave for all us and writing about this topic!
**Reviewed as part of Fun Fab and Tantalizing Reads**
"when you step outside, walk to the microphones. Give the greeting of your choice then read what's on the paper. Thank them and let me talk. Got it?"
Reading that was awful how could family dismiss something that is slowly destroying her, I admit being teary eyed reading this book. The ups and downs that Mia goes through is heartbreaking because her story could be anyone's. The fact that she is in constantly trying to pieces herself together while she is crumbling slowly is gut wrenching . Her mother tries to give her advice as best as she can.
"Chris is a good man, Mia. He comes across as a little cold, distant, but you can trust him to help you". -Mia's mother.
Mia's uncle Chris tries in his own way to help her, she starts going to therapy. She starts to miss the officers who found her, because at least they cared, she eyes something in her jewelry box that reminds her of one of them.
"...I noticed the quarter at the bottom of the box. It's the one I won from Dom after the silly game we played. For some reason, it makes me feel better. It's a reminder that there are good people out there, even if they aren't in my house"- Mia's thought
Dom, what can I say about Dom... he's a loving family man, and Mia's protector. Will he be able to convince Mia to come forward with the statement containing the names of her attacker or will her politically involved family come first?
".. The samples for the rape kit they did on you match those of these six women"
"I don't understand," I say.
"That means the two men who hurt you, hurt these women, too,"
In these few sevens Mia starts to realize she can help others like herself to receive justice.
"There is a difference between them and you," the DA continues. "You are the only one who can remember your attackers...""... You're the only one of seven victims who can remember. All of you had the same two attackers."
What will Mia do? what is yet to happen ? How far will her bravery reach? These answers will be reviled once you read this heartfelt book. Take it from me this book can be an eye opener, and shows the steps to healing aren't always easy. This was a therapeutic read for me. Please take the time and read this book it's an amazing read. Thank you Lizzy for being brave for all us and writing about this topic!
**Reviewed as part of Fun Fab and Tantalizing Reads**
February 7, 2014
An ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
3.5 stars! A heartbreaking read that makes you want more.
Broken Beauty is the first in a set of three Broken Beauty Novellas by Lizzy Ford. It contains graphic content involving the sensitive topic of rape and its painful aftermath.
There are many books published recently that deal with the sensitive topic of rape and how it affects not only the victim, but those around them. I haven’t read many of them, but from what others tell me, they are handled well and with respect. I happen to think that this novella does the same thing.
With that being said, I do not like that this was written as a novella. I have nothing against them, it’s just that they frustrate me, especially when I feel like I’ve only got the first part of a book and they end with cliffhangers. I understand the concept, but I wish this would’ve been done as a complete novel.
Now that that’s said, I’d like to address my rating. I really did enjoy the story and the writing, as much as you can when dealing with such a taboo and sensitive topic. My rating is for the fact that this is done as a novella and I feel like just as I was getting really invested in the story line and plot, it was over. Like, BAM! Running straight into a brick wall at full speed, just when things are picking up and we are getting farther into the characters.
I agree with others that Mia comes off a bit spoiled but can you really blame her? Look what her family is like. Many say that she’s immature, but when looking at her age, upbringing, and the whole situation, I think she seems pretty real. Yes, there were moments here and there that were a little unbelievable for me, but then again this story is fiction. I look forward to seeing her grow and overcome the hardship that life has dealt her as the rest of the story comes out though.
Her friend, Ari, was nice though and one of the only characters I could stand besides Mia, the nurse who helped her in the hospital, and Dom and Kiesha. Dom’s sister was also someone I would like to be around. Mia’s family though, I could not stand them. Her ‘daddy’ was a piece of crap along with everyone else that shared her last name. I thought her mom might be redeemable there in the beginning, but NOPE. Not at all.
I was hesitant to take on this novella, but in the end, I’m glad I did. I felt for Mia and look forward to reading more of her story as it continues. Hopefully, one day, these can all be published together. I think that would help them out.
3.5 stars! A heartbreaking read that makes you want more.
Broken Beauty is the first in a set of three Broken Beauty Novellas by Lizzy Ford. It contains graphic content involving the sensitive topic of rape and its painful aftermath.
There are many books published recently that deal with the sensitive topic of rape and how it affects not only the victim, but those around them. I haven’t read many of them, but from what others tell me, they are handled well and with respect. I happen to think that this novella does the same thing.
With that being said, I do not like that this was written as a novella. I have nothing against them, it’s just that they frustrate me, especially when I feel like I’ve only got the first part of a book and they end with cliffhangers. I understand the concept, but I wish this would’ve been done as a complete novel.
Now that that’s said, I’d like to address my rating. I really did enjoy the story and the writing, as much as you can when dealing with such a taboo and sensitive topic. My rating is for the fact that this is done as a novella and I feel like just as I was getting really invested in the story line and plot, it was over. Like, BAM! Running straight into a brick wall at full speed, just when things are picking up and we are getting farther into the characters.
I agree with others that Mia comes off a bit spoiled but can you really blame her? Look what her family is like. Many say that she’s immature, but when looking at her age, upbringing, and the whole situation, I think she seems pretty real. Yes, there were moments here and there that were a little unbelievable for me, but then again this story is fiction. I look forward to seeing her grow and overcome the hardship that life has dealt her as the rest of the story comes out though.
Her friend, Ari, was nice though and one of the only characters I could stand besides Mia, the nurse who helped her in the hospital, and Dom and Kiesha. Dom’s sister was also someone I would like to be around. Mia’s family though, I could not stand them. Her ‘daddy’ was a piece of crap along with everyone else that shared her last name. I thought her mom might be redeemable there in the beginning, but NOPE. Not at all.
I was hesitant to take on this novella, but in the end, I’m glad I did. I felt for Mia and look forward to reading more of her story as it continues. Hopefully, one day, these can all be published together. I think that would help them out.
November 28, 2013
This is the heartbreaking story of a young girl who is brutally beaten and raped. It contains sensitive subject matter that may not be for everyone. That being said, it was well written and I think the author did a nice job bringing us Mia's tragic story.
*Spoilers*
This is a hard story to read. It is heartbreaking and tragic. There doesn't seem to be any light at the end of the tunnel for this young girl. It starts out with her regaining consciousness after being drugged, beaten and raped at a party. It continues to get worse for her when none of her family show up to the hospital to see about her after this horrific trauma. Her Mother is in Rehab and her Father is a wealthy politician seeking re-election. Her Mother tells her she will come from Rehab (Spa) to see her, but never shows. Her Father has a "meeting" with her in his office several days after the incident to make sure she spins the story to make him look good. It is just so heartbreaking. She has no one except her best friend Ari who seems to care for her at all. I just wanted to reach through the pages and hug this poor girl.
Even though Mia is obviously accustomed to wealth and privilege, she is down to earth and has a kindness about her. She remembers her grandpa that loved her and his kindness. She very much wants someone to love her. I wanted to slam her Dad's head into his desk. It's just so hard for me to believe that there are actually people that uncaring and flippant towards their own children. She hasn't had much love or support in her life, but she has a goodness about her.
Mia has quite a bit of inner dialogue. Most probably because she has no one in her life that cares. I found that part of the book a little frustrating. She has little short thoughts that sort of jump around all over the place. It's probably very normal for her circumstances, but I found it a little frustrating to follow. It lacked the flow which usually holds my interest.
It should be noted that this is a short novella that is the first of a 6 part series of novella's. It ends quite abruptly. That's not usually my cup of tea. I don't like waiting a month to find out what happens next, but I certainly want to see how things turn out for Mia. So I'll be looking for the next installment.
I received an ARC copy of this novella in exchange for an honest review.
*Spoilers*
This is a hard story to read. It is heartbreaking and tragic. There doesn't seem to be any light at the end of the tunnel for this young girl. It starts out with her regaining consciousness after being drugged, beaten and raped at a party. It continues to get worse for her when none of her family show up to the hospital to see about her after this horrific trauma. Her Mother is in Rehab and her Father is a wealthy politician seeking re-election. Her Mother tells her she will come from Rehab (Spa) to see her, but never shows. Her Father has a "meeting" with her in his office several days after the incident to make sure she spins the story to make him look good. It is just so heartbreaking. She has no one except her best friend Ari who seems to care for her at all. I just wanted to reach through the pages and hug this poor girl.
Even though Mia is obviously accustomed to wealth and privilege, she is down to earth and has a kindness about her. She remembers her grandpa that loved her and his kindness. She very much wants someone to love her. I wanted to slam her Dad's head into his desk. It's just so hard for me to believe that there are actually people that uncaring and flippant towards their own children. She hasn't had much love or support in her life, but she has a goodness about her.
Mia has quite a bit of inner dialogue. Most probably because she has no one in her life that cares. I found that part of the book a little frustrating. She has little short thoughts that sort of jump around all over the place. It's probably very normal for her circumstances, but I found it a little frustrating to follow. It lacked the flow which usually holds my interest.
It should be noted that this is a short novella that is the first of a 6 part series of novella's. It ends quite abruptly. That's not usually my cup of tea. I don't like waiting a month to find out what happens next, but I certainly want to see how things turn out for Mia. So I'll be looking for the next installment.
I received an ARC copy of this novella in exchange for an honest review.
October 20, 2014
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Mia is the daughter of a powerful conservative senator from the South. She lives the privileged life at their family’s home in DC, worrying very little about anything other than partying and shopping. When she decides to skip a benefit dinner one night with her friend Ari, in favor of attending a party, her life changes forever when she becomes the victim of a violent rape.
Mia knows who the perpetrator is, the son of a wealthy supporter of her father. She knows that if she were to publicly accuse him of the rape and beating, she could put her father’s re-election campaign at risk, so she chooses to not press charges. She is urged to go after him by Ari, as well as Dom, the policeman who helped rescue her that night, the one that she feels a bond with, the only man she feels safe with. But her father and her uncle Chris, the family’s attorney, dissuade her, leaving her to deal with the traumatic events on her own, her only help coming in the form of her family’s therapist.
There is a lot to this story, especially considering this is a novella. There are secrets and lies that you might expect from a political family, as well as the need to keep up appearances, especially during an election year. Mia is a character you can immediately empathize with and really get a sense that underneath that frightened exterior, there lies the heart of a fighter that will someday break free. It’s heartbreaking to see the victim shaming that takes place, knowing that even though this is a work of fiction, it is still alive in well in the real world.
While I truly loved this novella, despite its grittiness and subject matter, I’m not sure that I will continue with the next book. It is noted that this is the first book in a six novella series, however only two have been published, and after looking online for news of a third, I have found no updates by the author in over a year. I love this story, however I have a hard time waiting that long between volumes; while that might work for George R.R. Martin and his epic length books, that doesn’t work for a series of novellas. Still, I did appreciate the care in which the subject matter was broached and felt that the author was able to convey the thoughts, feelings, and fears of the victim commendably.
Mia is the daughter of a powerful conservative senator from the South. She lives the privileged life at their family’s home in DC, worrying very little about anything other than partying and shopping. When she decides to skip a benefit dinner one night with her friend Ari, in favor of attending a party, her life changes forever when she becomes the victim of a violent rape.
Mia knows who the perpetrator is, the son of a wealthy supporter of her father. She knows that if she were to publicly accuse him of the rape and beating, she could put her father’s re-election campaign at risk, so she chooses to not press charges. She is urged to go after him by Ari, as well as Dom, the policeman who helped rescue her that night, the one that she feels a bond with, the only man she feels safe with. But her father and her uncle Chris, the family’s attorney, dissuade her, leaving her to deal with the traumatic events on her own, her only help coming in the form of her family’s therapist.
There is a lot to this story, especially considering this is a novella. There are secrets and lies that you might expect from a political family, as well as the need to keep up appearances, especially during an election year. Mia is a character you can immediately empathize with and really get a sense that underneath that frightened exterior, there lies the heart of a fighter that will someday break free. It’s heartbreaking to see the victim shaming that takes place, knowing that even though this is a work of fiction, it is still alive in well in the real world.
While I truly loved this novella, despite its grittiness and subject matter, I’m not sure that I will continue with the next book. It is noted that this is the first book in a six novella series, however only two have been published, and after looking online for news of a third, I have found no updates by the author in over a year. I love this story, however I have a hard time waiting that long between volumes; while that might work for George R.R. Martin and his epic length books, that doesn’t work for a series of novellas. Still, I did appreciate the care in which the subject matter was broached and felt that the author was able to convey the thoughts, feelings, and fears of the victim commendably.
June 5, 2014
I have just finished reading Broken Beauty, have hit the cliffhanger and my jaw is on the floor. Wow, just wow. Rape is a hard issue to write about and I think the author nailed it. This well written book is raw and gritty and will have you riding on an emotional roller coast from beginning to end.
The story starts out with Mia waking up disoriented and confused. It then continues on as she realizes what has happened and follows the aftermath. The story is told completely from Mia’s first person voice so the reader gets to experience all her pain and emotions. Some moments are hard to swallow other times I would think she really can’t be that naïve. Of course, I have to remind myself she is only a under-aged teenage and is a product of both her upbringing and her environment. There is a whole cast of secondary characters that fuel this drama filled stories. I DETEST her parents. I just can’t figure out her mom but her dad, that man needs to die a slow painful death! Yes, this book will fill you with emotion. Sympathy for Mia, anger for her situation, hate for her parent, shock for what has yet to come.
I have been a fan of Lizzy Ford and her PNR books for years. Really, it was the whole reason why I picked this book up in the first place. This book that she has written as Chloe Adams is as far from her normal PNRs as you can get. I’m not saying that is a bad thing. Actually, it a good thing because it allows my brain to accept and anticipate something completely different then what I normally get from Ms. Ford.
Broken Beauty Novellas is set to be a series of six short stories chronicling Mia’s journey as struggles with finding herself in a situation no woman, no person, should find themselves in; A victim of rape. For those of you who find rape to be a hard issue to read then this may not be the book for you. But for those who are willing, then take a chance and read Broken Beauty.
I received this book from Stephanie's Book Reports in exchange for my honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars – 4
The story starts out with Mia waking up disoriented and confused. It then continues on as she realizes what has happened and follows the aftermath. The story is told completely from Mia’s first person voice so the reader gets to experience all her pain and emotions. Some moments are hard to swallow other times I would think she really can’t be that naïve. Of course, I have to remind myself she is only a under-aged teenage and is a product of both her upbringing and her environment. There is a whole cast of secondary characters that fuel this drama filled stories. I DETEST her parents. I just can’t figure out her mom but her dad, that man needs to die a slow painful death! Yes, this book will fill you with emotion. Sympathy for Mia, anger for her situation, hate for her parent, shock for what has yet to come.
I have been a fan of Lizzy Ford and her PNR books for years. Really, it was the whole reason why I picked this book up in the first place. This book that she has written as Chloe Adams is as far from her normal PNRs as you can get. I’m not saying that is a bad thing. Actually, it a good thing because it allows my brain to accept and anticipate something completely different then what I normally get from Ms. Ford.
Broken Beauty Novellas is set to be a series of six short stories chronicling Mia’s journey as struggles with finding herself in a situation no woman, no person, should find themselves in; A victim of rape. For those of you who find rape to be a hard issue to read then this may not be the book for you. But for those who are willing, then take a chance and read Broken Beauty.
I received this book from Stephanie's Book Reports in exchange for my honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars – 4
January 6, 2014
Title: Broken Beauty, #1, Broken Beauty Novellas
Author: Lizzy Ford, writing as Chloe Adams
Rating: 5/5
**Trigger warning: rape**
Mia is a high school senior and daughter of an influential politician who is on the verge of being re-elected into his post. She escapes the drudge of a political fundraising event in order to head to a party, thanks to a false licence, but the event turns into a nightmare when she is raped. Worse even – she knows her attacker is the son of one of her father’s political ally. Accusing him would cause scandal that might cause her father’s campaign to fall to its ruin. Therefore, her father and his publicist and lawyer force her to imply that the rape is her fault, forcing their own beliefs on her situation. Her story simply becomes another means for her father to gain sympathy from voters.
This story completely broke my heart. Lizzy Ford did a wonderful job at writing a beautifully tragic novella; I was completely enraged at Mia’s entourage as they did everything in their power to make this into her fault. I felt Mia’s anger. She’s forced to do as she’s told to avoid the political scandal she could cause despite what she actually wants: justice. Dom, the police officer who finds her after she’s been raped, is a total guardian angel. I sure hope that he stays by her side through the upcoming stories.
Every character is well-defined and leave you with a desire to know more about the story. The plot is interesting and the action moves quickly enough that the book is a page-turner. The ending solves some questions, but has enough of a cliffhanger to make you eager to read the next book in the series.
Since it was just a novella, and it was such a short read, I don’t have more to add to my review. You could say that Mia’s story has left me speechless. It was a beautiful, poignant novella; I’d recommend it to anyone and I’m looking forward to reading the next books from Lizzy Ford.
I would also like to thank Indie Inked, as well as Netgalley, for the free copy of this novella to review.
Author: Lizzy Ford, writing as Chloe Adams
Rating: 5/5
**Trigger warning: rape**
Mia is a high school senior and daughter of an influential politician who is on the verge of being re-elected into his post. She escapes the drudge of a political fundraising event in order to head to a party, thanks to a false licence, but the event turns into a nightmare when she is raped. Worse even – she knows her attacker is the son of one of her father’s political ally. Accusing him would cause scandal that might cause her father’s campaign to fall to its ruin. Therefore, her father and his publicist and lawyer force her to imply that the rape is her fault, forcing their own beliefs on her situation. Her story simply becomes another means for her father to gain sympathy from voters.
This story completely broke my heart. Lizzy Ford did a wonderful job at writing a beautifully tragic novella; I was completely enraged at Mia’s entourage as they did everything in their power to make this into her fault. I felt Mia’s anger. She’s forced to do as she’s told to avoid the political scandal she could cause despite what she actually wants: justice. Dom, the police officer who finds her after she’s been raped, is a total guardian angel. I sure hope that he stays by her side through the upcoming stories.
Every character is well-defined and leave you with a desire to know more about the story. The plot is interesting and the action moves quickly enough that the book is a page-turner. The ending solves some questions, but has enough of a cliffhanger to make you eager to read the next book in the series.
Since it was just a novella, and it was such a short read, I don’t have more to add to my review. You could say that Mia’s story has left me speechless. It was a beautiful, poignant novella; I’d recommend it to anyone and I’m looking forward to reading the next books from Lizzy Ford.
I would also like to thank Indie Inked, as well as Netgalley, for the free copy of this novella to review.
February 5, 2014
I wasn't sure what to expect from this story when I started it. Reviews seemed to be very mixed, but I was interested enough to read it for myself. I'm glad I did. This story is heavy and dark and very raw. There were times when it was difficult to read because I know that this story is all too true for far too many people. That being said, the author handled the topic of rape with extreme grace and courage. She did not sugar coat the situation. This was not a story about someone who goes through a horrible ordeal and then gets back up, falls in love and lives happily ever after. At least, that is not where the story is now. The story focuses on what happens before you get back up, on the aftermath of the trauma, on the beginning stages of healing. It is real in it's depiction of the challenges and emotional struggle that follows someone after a traumatic experience. This is an honest account of the many obstacles to the healing process, including a missing support system, victim-blaming, physical and emotional recovery, navigating the legal system and coming to terms with a life of "after."
I was horrified by Mia's family and their treatment of her following her rape. I wanted to give her a hug, scream at her parents and throw something at everyone who treated her like a pawn in a game, all at the same time. The emotions in this story are real and they're not pretty, but I felt humbled by being able to share in them because the world Mia is living in exists and it exists for too many beautiful and broken people. Because this is just one part of the story, there isn't a happily ever after. Mia is only just realizing how deeply her experienced has rocked her, how much her world has shifted. This story is just the beginning, so there is a lot to process without knowing that everything will end up ok, but there is a glimmer of hope in Dom and some of the other secondary characters we are only just getting to know. With that in mind, I know I want to finish this journey with Mia and I encourage others to share in her story too.
I was horrified by Mia's family and their treatment of her following her rape. I wanted to give her a hug, scream at her parents and throw something at everyone who treated her like a pawn in a game, all at the same time. The emotions in this story are real and they're not pretty, but I felt humbled by being able to share in them because the world Mia is living in exists and it exists for too many beautiful and broken people. Because this is just one part of the story, there isn't a happily ever after. Mia is only just realizing how deeply her experienced has rocked her, how much her world has shifted. This story is just the beginning, so there is a lot to process without knowing that everything will end up ok, but there is a glimmer of hope in Dom and some of the other secondary characters we are only just getting to know. With that in mind, I know I want to finish this journey with Mia and I encourage others to share in her story too.
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