What do you think?
Rate this book
Hidden by These Walls
Secrets and shadows loom over sixteen-year-old Libby's life, threatening to shatter the fragile family she tries so hard to protect. Set in the 1980s, Libby's home is a battleground, her mother's rage fueled by alcohol and violence. Only her best friend Jake knows the truth, and together they struggle with the ramifications of Libby's reality. But when Libby's after-school job exposes her younger sisters to the same abuse, she knows she can no longer stay silent. Revealing the truth could tear her family apart, but staying quiet could have devastating consequences.
As Libby delves deeper into her parents' troubled past, she uncovers shocking secrets that force her to take action. With Jake by her side, they make a plan to seek help from a trusted relative. But as they begin to put their plan into action, a friend from school stumbles upon Libby's secret, and she is faced with a terrifying decision. With time running out, can Libby trust her friends to help her save her sisters?
For fans of Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson, Hidden by These Walls is a gripping tale of love, loyalty, and the courage to speak out against injustice. Don't miss this powerful story that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. Approx. 320 pages.
As Libby delves deeper into her parents' troubled past, she uncovers shocking secrets that force her to take action. With Jake by her side, they make a plan to seek help from a trusted relative. But as they begin to put their plan into action, a friend from school stumbles upon Libby's secret, and she is faced with a terrifying decision. With time running out, can Libby trust her friends to help her save her sisters?
For fans of Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson, Hidden by These Walls is a gripping tale of love, loyalty, and the courage to speak out against injustice. Don't miss this powerful story that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. Approx. 320 pages.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2025
6 people are currently reading
837 people want to read
About the author
K. D. Capener
1 book22 followersK. D. Capener is a graduate of Weber State University. She has always been an avid book enthusiast. Her favorite genres are mystery and historical fiction, but she's wanted to be a children's book author since she was young. She has too many hobbies and wishes there was enough time for all of them each day. She loves puzzles of all kinds, game nights, genealogy and traveling. She lives in beautiful Utah with her family. Hidden by These Walls is her debut novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
October 6, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of this book from the author. All I can say is WOW!!! I was unsure of what to expect from this book, but it was outstanding. Abuse isn't something that is frequently talked about and this book did a fantastic job encompassing the darkness and nightmarish acts that comes from it. It makes you wonder how many people you may know that experience or have experienced something similar to the actions shown in the book. I highly recommend this book and hope everybody else enjoys it as much as I did.
October 6, 2025
Wow, what a ride! I received a copy from the author and read it in days. This book is full of vivid imagery, suspense, and reflection. Each page had me hooked and I couldn’t put it down! The relationships between the characters were very well written and realistic. This is a thought-provoking, coming-of-age story that helps readers of all ages to understand the struggles of abuse, the importance of trusting those around you, and how to move forward after the unthinkable occurs.
October 28, 2025
This is a heartbreaking look inside the events of far too many children’s lives. I felt an immediate connection with Libby and could also many of my friends reflected in her character. (In case you know me in real life - this is not a reflection on my parents or stable childhood home, everyone’s trauma may vary!) Jake was also an old high school friend brought to life on the page - a teen ally with no idea what to do and the heart to help. Even with his good parents, he didn’t go to them. A lesson I wish more of us learned early in life - if your parents are good, go to them. If your parents are abusive find a friend’s good ones and go to them. There are likely many Jerri’s (and even some Jake’s parents”) who would help a child find authorities to stop the violence.
That said - not every story wraps up as neatly as this one. We need eyes on the justice system - both in how they treat offenders and even more how they treat victims, especially childhood victims.
I read this book near warp speed, with every fiber of my being aching for Libby, Anna, and Edie to find a safe path through to a more healthy life.
Thank you KD Capener for sharing your very important work with me. I’m honored to have read it, and to share it with others. Sometimes we can find solace in things that seem the opposite, and sometimes entertainment opens the eyes of the unknowing to what’s going on all around them. You, the author KD, are doing the “good work” and I appreciate that.
That said - not every story wraps up as neatly as this one. We need eyes on the justice system - both in how they treat offenders and even more how they treat victims, especially childhood victims.
I read this book near warp speed, with every fiber of my being aching for Libby, Anna, and Edie to find a safe path through to a more healthy life.
Thank you KD Capener for sharing your very important work with me. I’m honored to have read it, and to share it with others. Sometimes we can find solace in things that seem the opposite, and sometimes entertainment opens the eyes of the unknowing to what’s going on all around them. You, the author KD, are doing the “good work” and I appreciate that.
October 6, 2025
Thanks to the Author, I was able to receive a copy of this book! Even though the topic of abuse was difficult for me to read, it is something that needs attention.
The book is very well written. The story played out like a film in my mind. I was taken in by it and experienced the many emotions that this book brings to the reader.
The book is very well written. The story played out like a film in my mind. I was taken in by it and experienced the many emotions that this book brings to the reader.
October 19, 2025
I LOVED this book! It was a difficult topic (domestic abuse), but brings to light realities of those facing physical abuse, especially children. It’s a well written, coming-of-age, bit of teen romance story that kept me reading to find out what happened. The suspense kept me thinking about the book when I couldn’t read it. I liked how it focused on a short time period to keep the momentum going of the storyline. The characters came to life for me and I loved the twist at the end!
October 26, 2025
"Hidden By These Walls" is a powerful and emotional debut that truly stayed with me. As someone who grew up in an abusive household, this was at times a difficult read—but also an important one. The subject of child abuse is often hidden or silenced, and K.D. Capener does a remarkable job shedding light on both the pain and the strength of those who endure it.
Set in the late 1980s, the story doesn’t lean too heavily on nostalgia, but rather uses the time period to remind us how different—and often harder—it was for kids in unsafe homes to find help. This isn’t a fast-paced thriller; it’s more of a thoughtful character study that draws you in through the raw, emotional journey of Libby and her sisters.
I really appreciated the author’s sensitivity in opening with a content advisory and closing with helpful resources for readers who may relate to the story. My only small wish is that Libby’s younger sisters had been a bit more fleshed out—but from a YA perspective, it still works beautifully.
A tough but necessary read—heart-wrenching, compassionate, and ultimately hopeful. Thank you to K.D. Capener for this advanced reader copy. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Set in the late 1980s, the story doesn’t lean too heavily on nostalgia, but rather uses the time period to remind us how different—and often harder—it was for kids in unsafe homes to find help. This isn’t a fast-paced thriller; it’s more of a thoughtful character study that draws you in through the raw, emotional journey of Libby and her sisters.
I really appreciated the author’s sensitivity in opening with a content advisory and closing with helpful resources for readers who may relate to the story. My only small wish is that Libby’s younger sisters had been a bit more fleshed out—but from a YA perspective, it still works beautifully.
A tough but necessary read—heart-wrenching, compassionate, and ultimately hopeful. Thank you to K.D. Capener for this advanced reader copy. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 16, 2025
I received a free copy of this book and want to thank K.D. Capener for sending me an early edition of her debut novel. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect going in, but I was quickly pulled into the story. It deals with the difficult and sensitive topic of abuse, so I’d recommend checking trigger warnings before reading.
The author did a really good job portraying Libby's experiences in such a raw and honest way. She brings you into Libby's world and shines a light on something that’s too often overlooked. I found myself feeling emotional and frustrated alongside Libby, especially because her voice went unheard for so long. That emotional pull kept me hooked right through to the end because I needed to know how her story would turn out. This was a truly special book to read that had me feeling all of the feels.
The author did a really good job portraying Libby's experiences in such a raw and honest way. She brings you into Libby's world and shines a light on something that’s too often overlooked. I found myself feeling emotional and frustrated alongside Libby, especially because her voice went unheard for so long. That emotional pull kept me hooked right through to the end because I needed to know how her story would turn out. This was a truly special book to read that had me feeling all of the feels.
November 18, 2025
When I say this book exceeded all expectations and captured my interest from the first sentence I mean it! I am honestly not even sure what I thought I was getting myself into by reading this, but all I know is I fell in love with this book and its characters and so glad I read it.
I loved the pacing, it was fast, suspenseful, exciting, heart pounding, but also left room for details, emotion, and depth. From the first chapter I was hooked, the author really knew what she was doing starting it that way. I fast became curious about the characters and worried for them. As you would know from the synopsis this book deals with domestic abuse, so you can see why I would feel that way. Now I know people deal with these types of situations in real life and so that makes this a very difficult topic because it does happen. But I did appreciate the fact that the author did in no way shy away showcasing what these situations look like. From the emotional turmoil, to being physically harmed. Now there was on occasion just the explanation of what had happened to them in the past, but there were also things happening on page. And for me that really helps me understand why they feel the way they do, why they act a certain way, you know just gets you connected to the characters on a deeper level. Sometimes when things are just said and not shown I feel a disconnection to it like it didn't really happen if that makes sense. And I am no expert but I also think she handled it very well, and in a realistic but hopeful way.
Throughout the story, I felt the characters fear, desperation, and hesitation to get help. There was a range of emotions explored beautifully and deeply, and despite the terrible things happening, there were also moments of love, happiness, courage, and seeing what it can really mean to be loved. I felt terrible for what Libby had to deal with on a day to day basis, and not gonna lie it progressively got worse throughout the book leading to the big ending.
One of my favorite aspects of this story was the dynamics between certain characters. First there is her best friend Jake, who I can definitely see a friends to more in their future ;) (though this book ends and is a stand alone😂) but anyways he is very supportive, sweet, and brave. Though I do feel bad because he has had to carry the burden of knowing what happens to Libby at home but not able to say anything due to the promise he made her, but he is a big advocate for her saying something. Then there is Libby and her two younger sisters, Anna and Edie. Anna is ten, she is the quiet, studious, good one. Edie is eight and she is the ball of energy, spunky one, who I'm not gonna lie got on my nerves a bit but that's probably not fair because she shouldn't have had to deal with the things she did. But I really enjoyed the sweet moments between them just playing games or having fun thought everything was always laced with that ever constant fear. But they all helped each other out, and Libby is a great big sister, protecting them at all costs. Then there is Libby's boss, Jerri who notices the little things, befriends her and treats her like she's her own daughter. And Libby does have a few other friends who at the start I thought were surface level but by the end it felt like this tight knit found family group which I loved!
The ending was crazy, and amazing. Extremely climatic with everything coming to a head, but it was full of courage and strength and the love of friends. I hated to see it end but can't complain too much about the way it did because it was a happy one. All that to say I loved this story, ate it up, and definitely recommend you to pick this one up if you want a heart achingly sad, but beautiful, emotional, and deep story.
Contents: No swearing, domestic abuse, alcoholism
I loved the pacing, it was fast, suspenseful, exciting, heart pounding, but also left room for details, emotion, and depth. From the first chapter I was hooked, the author really knew what she was doing starting it that way. I fast became curious about the characters and worried for them. As you would know from the synopsis this book deals with domestic abuse, so you can see why I would feel that way. Now I know people deal with these types of situations in real life and so that makes this a very difficult topic because it does happen. But I did appreciate the fact that the author did in no way shy away showcasing what these situations look like. From the emotional turmoil, to being physically harmed. Now there was on occasion just the explanation of what had happened to them in the past, but there were also things happening on page. And for me that really helps me understand why they feel the way they do, why they act a certain way, you know just gets you connected to the characters on a deeper level. Sometimes when things are just said and not shown I feel a disconnection to it like it didn't really happen if that makes sense. And I am no expert but I also think she handled it very well, and in a realistic but hopeful way.
Throughout the story, I felt the characters fear, desperation, and hesitation to get help. There was a range of emotions explored beautifully and deeply, and despite the terrible things happening, there were also moments of love, happiness, courage, and seeing what it can really mean to be loved. I felt terrible for what Libby had to deal with on a day to day basis, and not gonna lie it progressively got worse throughout the book leading to the big ending.
One of my favorite aspects of this story was the dynamics between certain characters. First there is her best friend Jake, who I can definitely see a friends to more in their future ;) (though this book ends and is a stand alone😂) but anyways he is very supportive, sweet, and brave. Though I do feel bad because he has had to carry the burden of knowing what happens to Libby at home but not able to say anything due to the promise he made her, but he is a big advocate for her saying something. Then there is Libby and her two younger sisters, Anna and Edie. Anna is ten, she is the quiet, studious, good one. Edie is eight and she is the ball of energy, spunky one, who I'm not gonna lie got on my nerves a bit but that's probably not fair because she shouldn't have had to deal with the things she did. But I really enjoyed the sweet moments between them just playing games or having fun thought everything was always laced with that ever constant fear. But they all helped each other out, and Libby is a great big sister, protecting them at all costs. Then there is Libby's boss, Jerri who notices the little things, befriends her and treats her like she's her own daughter. And Libby does have a few other friends who at the start I thought were surface level but by the end it felt like this tight knit found family group which I loved!
The ending was crazy, and amazing. Extremely climatic with everything coming to a head, but it was full of courage and strength and the love of friends. I hated to see it end but can't complain too much about the way it did because it was a happy one. All that to say I loved this story, ate it up, and definitely recommend you to pick this one up if you want a heart achingly sad, but beautiful, emotional, and deep story.
Contents: No swearing, domestic abuse, alcoholism
October 27, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive a copy of this book from the author, and I really enjoyed getting to read it! This book approaches the difficult topic of abuse in a direct and compelling way. I felt as if this book did a good job of giving the internal monologue of a young abuse victim that often causes delays in reporting said abuse. As someone who experienced childhood domestic abuse, this was a hard but therapeutic read.
This is a YA novel, and it definitely reads as such. The writing style is very simple but throughout the story it proved to be effective as the story is told in first person from the teenage character. However, I am not someone who prefers YA so I would have loved to read this story in an elevated writing style.
As someone who reads thrillers often, I was expecting a lot of suspense. My biggest critique of this book was that it was lacking those classic thriller elements such as a shocking twist or ah-ha moment. This read more like a literary fiction with suspenseful moments.
Overall, this story grabbed my attention, had me rooting for the characters, and reminded me of the unfortunate reality of so many young people. Thank you again to the author for my copy! I cannot wait to read what you write next!
This is a YA novel, and it definitely reads as such. The writing style is very simple but throughout the story it proved to be effective as the story is told in first person from the teenage character. However, I am not someone who prefers YA so I would have loved to read this story in an elevated writing style.
As someone who reads thrillers often, I was expecting a lot of suspense. My biggest critique of this book was that it was lacking those classic thriller elements such as a shocking twist or ah-ha moment. This read more like a literary fiction with suspenseful moments.
Overall, this story grabbed my attention, had me rooting for the characters, and reminded me of the unfortunate reality of so many young people. Thank you again to the author for my copy! I cannot wait to read what you write next!
October 28, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive this book directly from the author to read and review, and I’m so glad I did. This story is emotional, raw, and deeply moving. Libby’s pain, fear, and quiet bravery felt so real that it was hard to put the book down. K.D. Capener has written something powerful, a story that doesn’t shy away from darkness but still leaves you with hope. It’s heartbreaking yet beautifully written, and it stayed with me long after I finished it. I loved it so much!!
October 8, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Thank you to K.D. Capener for providing me with a copy of your debut novel.
This book was a difficult read due to the subject matter. K.D. Capener did not hold back at portraying the horror of the abuse Libby goes through. It was heart-wrenching at times, and I highly recommend checking the triggers before reading.
I think Libby was a very well-written, brave character, and I wanted to keep reading to see her fight her way out of a dire situation. I was always cheering her on. I also loved Anna and Edie. I think Edie brought some much-needed comedic relief to an otherwise dark novel.
My biggest critique with this book is the writing. It's very simple. It read like one continuous stream of Libby's thoughts, leading to a bit too much exposition, you know what I mean? For example, instead of showing Edie's actions and letting the reader come to the conclusion that she's headstrong and difficult, Libby explicitly describes her in that way, even going so far as to explicitly say that Edie and Anna were opposites of one another, instead of letting the reader glean that for themselves through their actions. Of course, this is a debut novel, and I don't expect every author to find their voice right out of the gate. This wouldn't detract me from reading a future novel from this author.
One other critique I had about side characters - they were pretty one-dimensional. Roy and Donna were 100% the bad guys, while everyone else was 100% the good guys. I'm not saying that Roy and Donna WEREN'T BAD, I'm just saying that it wasn't very realistic that everyone else were angels. Furthermore, Holly and Nicole weren't distinct enough that I could tell them apart. I kept getting confused about who was who. So, fleshing out the characters a bit more would've been beneficial to the story.
Despite the critiques I have, I still enjoyed this book. Like I said, I wanted to keep reading because I wanted to see Libby be victorious in her situation, and Libby, along with her sisters, were easy characters to root for. I look forward to further works from this author!
Thank you to K.D. Capener for providing me with a copy of your debut novel.
This book was a difficult read due to the subject matter. K.D. Capener did not hold back at portraying the horror of the abuse Libby goes through. It was heart-wrenching at times, and I highly recommend checking the triggers before reading.
I think Libby was a very well-written, brave character, and I wanted to keep reading to see her fight her way out of a dire situation. I was always cheering her on. I also loved Anna and Edie. I think Edie brought some much-needed comedic relief to an otherwise dark novel.
My biggest critique with this book is the writing. It's very simple. It read like one continuous stream of Libby's thoughts, leading to a bit too much exposition, you know what I mean? For example, instead of showing Edie's actions and letting the reader come to the conclusion that she's headstrong and difficult, Libby explicitly describes her in that way, even going so far as to explicitly say that Edie and Anna were opposites of one another, instead of letting the reader glean that for themselves through their actions. Of course, this is a debut novel, and I don't expect every author to find their voice right out of the gate. This wouldn't detract me from reading a future novel from this author.
One other critique I had about side characters - they were pretty one-dimensional. Roy and Donna were 100% the bad guys, while everyone else was 100% the good guys. I'm not saying that Roy and Donna WEREN'T BAD, I'm just saying that it wasn't very realistic that everyone else were angels. Furthermore, Holly and Nicole weren't distinct enough that I could tell them apart. I kept getting confused about who was who. So, fleshing out the characters a bit more would've been beneficial to the story.
Despite the critiques I have, I still enjoyed this book. Like I said, I wanted to keep reading because I wanted to see Libby be victorious in her situation, and Libby, along with her sisters, were easy characters to root for. I look forward to further works from this author!
February 10, 2026
I strongly resonated with Libby as a main character, especially as someone who grew up in an alcohol-filled and abusive household. Her experiences felt raw, honest, and very real. Watching her come to the realization that asking for help is not a failure but an act of courage was incredibly powerful. I felt deeply connected to her emotions in a short span of time, particularly in the moment when she feels exposed after Jake hints at her life to her boss, which revealed so much about her fear, vulnerability, and past.
It was also interesting to see how Jake and Holly’s perspectives shifted as their concern for Libby grew. Their evolving reactions felt authentic and highlighted how people can slowly come to recognize the seriousness of someone else’s pain. I truly appreciate the author for thoughtfully highlighting such an important and difficult subject.
Additionally, the author used some really creative and memorable metaphors throughout the book, which added an extra layer of beauty to the writing.
Overall, despite a slower beginning which took some time to draw me in, this was an impactful and heartfelt story that stayed with me, and I’m glad I took the time to read it.
It was also interesting to see how Jake and Holly’s perspectives shifted as their concern for Libby grew. Their evolving reactions felt authentic and highlighted how people can slowly come to recognize the seriousness of someone else’s pain. I truly appreciate the author for thoughtfully highlighting such an important and difficult subject.
Additionally, the author used some really creative and memorable metaphors throughout the book, which added an extra layer of beauty to the writing.
Overall, despite a slower beginning which took some time to draw me in, this was an impactful and heartfelt story that stayed with me, and I’m glad I took the time to read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2025
This book was a hard yet excellent read. It includes mentions of abuse and fairly graphic scenes of abuse so be intentional with what you read if this is something you aren’t comfortable with.
That being said, wow! Just wow. Libby is a teen living in a house with her half sisters and mom. She works every day to take care of the family and keep her sisters safe. Jake is her friend from school who wants to help without causing further trouble. Throughout the book he tries hard to help the situation. I didn’t know how the book was going to go so I was nervously anticipating the ending. It was a great ending and I really enjoyed the read, it was rough but good. I say rough because reading abuse situations is hard. This book is written well.
That being said, wow! Just wow. Libby is a teen living in a house with her half sisters and mom. She works every day to take care of the family and keep her sisters safe. Jake is her friend from school who wants to help without causing further trouble. Throughout the book he tries hard to help the situation. I didn’t know how the book was going to go so I was nervously anticipating the ending. It was a great ending and I really enjoyed the read, it was rough but good. I say rough because reading abuse situations is hard. This book is written well.
December 26, 2025
Read this if you want a story of sibling love; of learning to trust your friends; of acting with courage in the face of sometimes paralyzing fear; of keeping hope alive even through difficult circumstances; of resilience and the strength go move forward.
It will hook you from the beginning and never let go.
It will hook you from the beginning and never let go.
October 26, 2025
I am not a huge reader and I read this book so fast. It was a great book. I would love to have an extended version, so I know what happens in the future life of some of these people. It just kept my interest and wanting me to read more. It also brought back memories of when I was a teenager and I think everyone goes through these feelings.
December 5, 2025
Set in the 1980s, this story centers on the main protagonist, Libby, trying to keep her two younger sisters safe. Their home life is a mess and their mother’s abuse and alcoholism runs rampant. The pain is real and heartbreaking, but so is Libby’s strength, love, and loyalty.
This book is a reminder that sometimes we need to speak up, reach out, and fight for ourselves and others.
That said, this story is powerful and heart wrenching yet filled with hope.
Highly recommend to anyone who cares about stories of survival, sisterhood, and the courage to break free. 💪❤️🩹
This book is a reminder that sometimes we need to speak up, reach out, and fight for ourselves and others.
That said, this story is powerful and heart wrenching yet filled with hope.
Highly recommend to anyone who cares about stories of survival, sisterhood, and the courage to break free. 💪❤️🩹
October 27, 2025
Hidden by These Walls is a strong and emotionally resonant debut. It excels at immersing the reader in Libby’s world — a place of fear, love, loyalty and the heavy cost of silence. If you’re drawn to realistic young-adult fiction that tackles heavy themes with care, this is a book worth picking up.
I’d give it 4 out of 5 stars.
I’d give it 4 out of 5 stars.
October 5, 2025
I went into this not really knowing what I was going to read. I didn’t expect it to be YA but I was pleasantly surprised. I don’t typically read YA but I enjoyed this. I think physical and mental abuse is a very taboo topic that needs to be spoken about more. The author did an amazing job of encapsulating the various points of view from Libby - feeling guilty but also needing to get out of her home life with her sisters. This was a very realistic story with very real feelings. I felt like I related to parts of this book as well.
I received a copy of this book thanks to the author!
I received a copy of this book thanks to the author!
December 13, 2025
This book was so good! I couldn’t put it down or stop thinking about it until I finished! It definitely was a tear jerker but I loved it! If you haven’t read it I recommend you read it soon!!
November 27, 2025
Hidden By These Walls is an earnest, heartfelt debut that tackles an incredibly difficult topic for a YA audience: a teenage girl trying to protect her younger sisters while living with a parent whose alcoholism has hardened into bitterness, volatility, and neglect. It’s a brave story to tell, and I admire K.D. Capener for stepping into such heavy emotional terrain with compassion and sincerity.
One of the true highlights is the 1980s setting. The music, fashion, and pop-culture references feel wonderfully authentic and give the novel a vivid sense of atmosphere. As an eighties kid myself, those details rang true and really enriched Libby’s world.
The first-person YA perspective keeps the emotional stakes immediate and makes Libby’s love for her sisters the heart of the book. At the same time, the natural limits of a sixteen-year-old’s viewpoint sometimes lead to straightforward, task-to-task transitions between scenes and the occasional awkward analogy, though never in a way that detracts from the story’s core themes of courage, loyalty, and the longing for safety and stability.
Libby’s mother is portrayed as relentlessly cruel — both physically and emotionally — which makes the danger in the household feel very real. As a kid watching shows about abuse, I often wondered why the victim wouldn’t “fight back” or simply report their abuser to the police, and this book does a strong job showing how control, fear, and responsibility for younger siblings can trap a near-adult in place. At the same time, the story might have benefitted from occasional glimpses of warmth or complexity in the mother — not to soften what she does, but to add the layers and poignance that often accompany real-life cycles of abuse. Even so, the impact of the situation comes through clearly.
Like many debuts, some characters come across more simply drawn than others, but the sincerity behind the storytelling is unmistakable. The novel approaches family trauma and resilience with a genuine sense of care, and that matters more than anything.
Overall, Hidden By These Walls is a meaningful and compassionate first novel with an important message. Readers who gravitate toward YA stories that confront real-world hardships — especially with a nostalgic 80s backdrop — will find much to connect with here. I’m looking forward to seeing what K.D. Capener writes next.
5 Stars — rounded up from 4.5 Stars
One of the true highlights is the 1980s setting. The music, fashion, and pop-culture references feel wonderfully authentic and give the novel a vivid sense of atmosphere. As an eighties kid myself, those details rang true and really enriched Libby’s world.
The first-person YA perspective keeps the emotional stakes immediate and makes Libby’s love for her sisters the heart of the book. At the same time, the natural limits of a sixteen-year-old’s viewpoint sometimes lead to straightforward, task-to-task transitions between scenes and the occasional awkward analogy, though never in a way that detracts from the story’s core themes of courage, loyalty, and the longing for safety and stability.
Libby’s mother is portrayed as relentlessly cruel — both physically and emotionally — which makes the danger in the household feel very real. As a kid watching shows about abuse, I often wondered why the victim wouldn’t “fight back” or simply report their abuser to the police, and this book does a strong job showing how control, fear, and responsibility for younger siblings can trap a near-adult in place. At the same time, the story might have benefitted from occasional glimpses of warmth or complexity in the mother — not to soften what she does, but to add the layers and poignance that often accompany real-life cycles of abuse. Even so, the impact of the situation comes through clearly.
Like many debuts, some characters come across more simply drawn than others, but the sincerity behind the storytelling is unmistakable. The novel approaches family trauma and resilience with a genuine sense of care, and that matters more than anything.
Overall, Hidden By These Walls is a meaningful and compassionate first novel with an important message. Readers who gravitate toward YA stories that confront real-world hardships — especially with a nostalgic 80s backdrop — will find much to connect with here. I’m looking forward to seeing what K.D. Capener writes next.
5 Stars — rounded up from 4.5 Stars
October 9, 2025
Thank you to K.D. Capener for providing me with a copy of your debut novel.
This was a YA book. It isn't a genre I often read but I am really glad I had the chance to read this.
This book cover difficult topics including abuse and alcoholism. I thought these subject were handled brilliantly by K.D. Capener who did not hold back at portraying the horror of the abuse. In my mind it was right to show the extent of the shocking and horrific terrors that Libby and her sister's Anna and Edie suffered.
The light in this book was the wonderful character that was Libby. What a brave teenager she was battling inner turmoil, whilst trying to protect her younger sisters from the horrors they all endured at home. Libby should have been able to get on with her teenage years, enjoying school, friendships and enjoying the tender years before reaching adulthood. Libby sought solace in her 80's music, her friendship with Jake, Holly and Nicole.
It was easy to root for Libby and see how her journey progressed as she fought the controlling and terrifying life at home at the hands of her mother.
The glimmer of hope and light in this book came from the wonderful friendships and the fight for survival against the odds. The friendship between Libby and Jake was really sweet and touching and provided much needed comfort for Libby.
This was well written and the characters were brought to life on the pages, both the good ones and the bad ones. You could really feel the tension and the discomfort of the dire situation in Libby's home life.
Thank you K.D. Capener for the chance to read this debut book.
This was a YA book. It isn't a genre I often read but I am really glad I had the chance to read this.
This book cover difficult topics including abuse and alcoholism. I thought these subject were handled brilliantly by K.D. Capener who did not hold back at portraying the horror of the abuse. In my mind it was right to show the extent of the shocking and horrific terrors that Libby and her sister's Anna and Edie suffered.
The light in this book was the wonderful character that was Libby. What a brave teenager she was battling inner turmoil, whilst trying to protect her younger sisters from the horrors they all endured at home. Libby should have been able to get on with her teenage years, enjoying school, friendships and enjoying the tender years before reaching adulthood. Libby sought solace in her 80's music, her friendship with Jake, Holly and Nicole.
It was easy to root for Libby and see how her journey progressed as she fought the controlling and terrifying life at home at the hands of her mother.
The glimmer of hope and light in this book came from the wonderful friendships and the fight for survival against the odds. The friendship between Libby and Jake was really sweet and touching and provided much needed comfort for Libby.
This was well written and the characters were brought to life on the pages, both the good ones and the bad ones. You could really feel the tension and the discomfort of the dire situation in Libby's home life.
Thank you K.D. Capener for the chance to read this debut book.
October 8, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of Hidden by These Walls.
Hidden by These Walls is a powerful and emotional story that follows Libby, a young girl struggling to protect her two younger sisters while living under the roof of their abusive, alcoholic mother. From the very first page, I was completely drawn into Libby’s world — her courage, pain, and fierce love for her sisters felt so real that I couldn’t put the book down.
The writing is so vivid and beautifully crafted that it feels like a movie playing in your mind. Every scene is painted with such detail and emotion that you can see, hear, and feel everything the characters go through.
The author does an incredible job capturing the raw emotions and inner strength it takes to survive in such a toxic environment. Every chapter left me holding my breath, hoping that Libby and her sisters would find a way out, and admiring the resilience they showed despite everything stacked against them.
It’s a heartbreaking yet beautifully written story about family, survival, and the unbreakable bond between siblings. Hidden by These Walls is one of those rare books that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Absolutely spectacular.
Hidden by These Walls is a powerful and emotional story that follows Libby, a young girl struggling to protect her two younger sisters while living under the roof of their abusive, alcoholic mother. From the very first page, I was completely drawn into Libby’s world — her courage, pain, and fierce love for her sisters felt so real that I couldn’t put the book down.
The writing is so vivid and beautifully crafted that it feels like a movie playing in your mind. Every scene is painted with such detail and emotion that you can see, hear, and feel everything the characters go through.
The author does an incredible job capturing the raw emotions and inner strength it takes to survive in such a toxic environment. Every chapter left me holding my breath, hoping that Libby and her sisters would find a way out, and admiring the resilience they showed despite everything stacked against them.
It’s a heartbreaking yet beautifully written story about family, survival, and the unbreakable bond between siblings. Hidden by These Walls is one of those rare books that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Absolutely spectacular.
October 20, 2025
In Hidden by these Walls, K.D. Capener presents an emotional and gritty portrait of 16 year old Libby, whose home life is fractured by alcoholism and violence. I was immediately drawn into Libby's dual struggle: to preserve what remains of her fragile family and to find the courage to protect her younger sisters. Libby knows that speaking out could tear everything apart that she has tried to keep together.
The author does a fantastic job of keeping the reader so engaged that you don't want to put the book down. Hidden by these Walls is written so decriptively that the reader can see each scene play out in their mind. This book is a must read for teens, young adults, and anyone who interacts with teens and children in any way at all. It is a great lesson in knowing what to look for and what questions to ask if you sense someone is in trouble. It is also a great reminder that none of us are alone and if we can find the courage to ask for help, we can change a situation for ourselves and others.
While the subject matter of this book may be at times uncomfortable and upsetting, readers who invest in Libby's journey will find a deeply moving and ultimately hopeful story of resilience and redemption.
The author does a fantastic job of keeping the reader so engaged that you don't want to put the book down. Hidden by these Walls is written so decriptively that the reader can see each scene play out in their mind. This book is a must read for teens, young adults, and anyone who interacts with teens and children in any way at all. It is a great lesson in knowing what to look for and what questions to ask if you sense someone is in trouble. It is also a great reminder that none of us are alone and if we can find the courage to ask for help, we can change a situation for ourselves and others.
While the subject matter of this book may be at times uncomfortable and upsetting, readers who invest in Libby's journey will find a deeply moving and ultimately hopeful story of resilience and redemption.
October 27, 2025
Thank you to the author for the ARC. ♥️
"Hidden by These Walls" releases on October 28th.
Genre: YA Contemporary, Realistic Fiction, set in the 1980s.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
My Review :
"Hidden by These Walls" tells the story of Libby, a sixteen-year-old who's "had to grow up faster than most. Living with an abusive mother, she becomes the protector of her younger sisters, doing everything she can to keep them safe. It's a raw and emotional story that shows the strength it takes to survive and care for others in such a home.
The story captures how difficult it is for her to choose herself when she's used to carrying everyone else's pain.
Stories like this matter because they show real problems many teens go through but don't often talk about. Seeing Libby take on so much responsibility at such a young age makes her story honest and powerful. It's about losing your childhood, staying strong, and slowly finding hope again.
Huge appreciation to the author for writing this with such care and honesty, raising awareness on how important it is to speak up...because silence only allows the pain to continue.
Other than the story being a bit slow-paced at times, it's a raw and deeply moving read.
"Hidden by These Walls" releases on October 28th.
Genre: YA Contemporary, Realistic Fiction, set in the 1980s.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
My Review :
"Hidden by These Walls" tells the story of Libby, a sixteen-year-old who's "had to grow up faster than most. Living with an abusive mother, she becomes the protector of her younger sisters, doing everything she can to keep them safe. It's a raw and emotional story that shows the strength it takes to survive and care for others in such a home.
The story captures how difficult it is for her to choose herself when she's used to carrying everyone else's pain.
Stories like this matter because they show real problems many teens go through but don't often talk about. Seeing Libby take on so much responsibility at such a young age makes her story honest and powerful. It's about losing your childhood, staying strong, and slowly finding hope again.
Huge appreciation to the author for writing this with such care and honesty, raising awareness on how important it is to speak up...because silence only allows the pain to continue.
Other than the story being a bit slow-paced at times, it's a raw and deeply moving read.
October 14, 2025
I had the privilege of reading an early copy of this book from the author, and from the very first page, I was completely hooked. The story is gripping and emotionally charged, with each chapter pulling me deeper into the lives of its characters. The story's unexpected twists kept me eagerly turning pages, desperately wanting to know what happens next.
Libby, the main character, is both courageous and deeply relatable. Her fierce determination to protect her sisters from their mother’s abuse and alcoholism makes her journey not just compelling, but profoundly moving. The author paints each scene with vivid, often heartbreaking detail, capturing the raw emotion of abuse without ever losing sight of resilience and hope.
What stands out most is how authentically the story portrays the complexities of abuse, family loyalty, and survival. Not only is the story powerful, it lingers with you long after the final page. I can’t recommend this book enough!
Libby, the main character, is both courageous and deeply relatable. Her fierce determination to protect her sisters from their mother’s abuse and alcoholism makes her journey not just compelling, but profoundly moving. The author paints each scene with vivid, often heartbreaking detail, capturing the raw emotion of abuse without ever losing sight of resilience and hope.
What stands out most is how authentically the story portrays the complexities of abuse, family loyalty, and survival. Not only is the story powerful, it lingers with you long after the final page. I can’t recommend this book enough!
October 27, 2025
I do not consider myself an avid reader and when I do get a chance to dive into a book, it has to catch my attention right away. I simply won't move forward unless my interest has been piqued. As a fortunate early reviewer, I am happy to say this book captured me from page one! As I read, I kept imagining this as a movie - that says to me that the descriptive elements, the character development, the scene detail - provided the imagery to help guide me through the story in just the way I needed. I felt "connected" to this book, finding myself a bit emotional as I journeyed alongside the characters.
I would highly suggest this book for all readers - the voracious and the occasional. As a first-time published author, I am very impressed with K.D. Capener and I hope there are more books from her in the future.
I would highly suggest this book for all readers - the voracious and the occasional. As a first-time published author, I am very impressed with K.D. Capener and I hope there are more books from her in the future.
October 10, 2025
📖✨ We were so grateful to receive an advanced reader copy of *Hidddn by These Walls* by K.D. Capener.
This story tugged at my heart in every direction 💔 It follows an eldest daughter doing everything she can to protect herself and her sisters from their abusive mother. The subject matter is incredibly heavy — but it’s real, and it’s something far too many kids face every single day.
💬 It’s a powerful reminder: if you see something, say something.
Despite the darkness, there’s light at the end of the tunnel 🌤️ The writing is vivid, emotional, and completely absorbing — I couldn’t stop thinking about these sisters long after I closed the book.
January 23, 2026
Hidden by These Walls is a powerful and emotionally gripping novel that doesn’t shy away from difficult truths. K. D. Capener captures the fear, confusion, and fierce love of a teenager trying to protect her family in an environment shaped by abuse and silence. Libby is a compelling, courageous protagonist, and the 1980s setting adds a haunting authenticity to the story. The relationships especially Libby’s bond with Jake and her sisters are written with honesty and heart. This is a hard but necessary read, handled with compassion and care. Highly recommended for readers who appreciate impactful, character-driven stories that linger long after the final page.
January 15, 2026
I don't read novels very often, but I found this one very well written and it kept me engaged the entire book. The characters were vivid, and I enjoyed all the details about life in the late 1980s. That being said, the subject matter is heart-wrenching and made me more cognizant of the young people around me and to be aware of what burdens they might be carrying. It's a very engaging book with an action-packed climax, and I hope it will help young people ask for help when they need it.
Buy this book, get yourself some hot chocolate, and read it by the fireplace. Highly recommend.
Buy this book, get yourself some hot chocolate, and read it by the fireplace. Highly recommend.
February 4, 2026
A powerful and emotional debut from Capener. Libby’s story is absolutely heartbreaking and a powerful reminder that we never truly know what someone is going through, and that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. I cried, I cheered, and I felt deeply connected to Libby and her journey. As a mom myself, parts of this were hard to read and emotionally heavy, but they felt so, so important. Whether you’re eighteen or eighty, this story is moving, necessary, and unforgettable. I highly recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews