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Hurt People
She learned to read hands before she learned to read books.
Willow Jones knows the difference between a touch that asks and a touch that takes. She's known it since she was five years old and a stranger's hands taught her that safety is a word other people get to use.
Now she's eighteen and in a constant state of survival.
Surviving a boyfriend whose love arrives wrapped in poison, surviving a trailer where the walls carry everything, surviving a school that accepted her as a line item and expects her to be grateful.
Then Grayson Parker says her name like it holds weight.
He's her teacher, but he’s also the first person who's ever told her to keep going.
In a world where every hand she's ever known has left a mark, Willow has to learn the hardest lesson of all: that wanting something for herself isn't the same as deserving the wreckage that follows.
Hurt people hurt people. But that was never the whole sentence.
Willow Jones knows the difference between a touch that asks and a touch that takes. She's known it since she was five years old and a stranger's hands taught her that safety is a word other people get to use.
Now she's eighteen and in a constant state of survival.
Surviving a boyfriend whose love arrives wrapped in poison, surviving a trailer where the walls carry everything, surviving a school that accepted her as a line item and expects her to be grateful.
Then Grayson Parker says her name like it holds weight.
He's her teacher, but he’s also the first person who's ever told her to keep going.
In a world where every hand she's ever known has left a mark, Willow has to learn the hardest lesson of all: that wanting something for herself isn't the same as deserving the wreckage that follows.
Hurt people hurt people. But that was never the whole sentence.
Unknown Binding
About the author
Maisie Maeve
2 books3 followersMaisie Maeve is a romance author who enjoys writing real, messy, and sometimes heartbreaking love that leans into forbidden dynamics.
When she isn't reading or writing, you can find her watching reality TV with her husband or playing with her cats, dogs, and bearded dragon.
When she isn't reading or writing, you can find her watching reality TV with her husband or playing with her cats, dogs, and bearded dragon.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
September 18, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story broke my heart.
Not because it is relentlessly graphic or because every terrible thing Willow has endured is described in excruciating detail.
In fact, I was grateful that the author chose not to go deeply into some of the abuse, especially when it comes to Willow’s childhood.
I find those scenes incredibly difficult to read, and the way they are handled here gives us enough to understand the magnitude of what she went through without turning her suffering into something to be consumed.
Because the greatest horror in this story is not always physical.
It is psychological.
It is the constant tension that follows Willow everywhere.
The way she watches people.
Measures every word.
Calculates every reaction.
Thinks before she speaks.
Tries not to attract attention.
Tries not to anger Dean.
Tries to appear fine when she is anything but fine.
She has spent so much of her life surviving that simply existing without fear feels almost foreign to her.
Willow is, in many ways, a girl who has been drowning for most of her life, desperately trying to keep her head above a cold and violent sea.
And she is incredibly brave.
Not because she is fearless, but because she keeps going despite being terrified.
Greyson becomes the first person who makes her feel as though she can finally breathe with her head above the water.
Through books, quiet support, kindness, and his presence, he gives Willow something she has barely known before: a space where she can slowly begin to be herself.
I appreciated that the story does not pretend their relationship is simple or acceptable simply because there are feelings involved.
The student/teacher dynamic creates an undeniable ethical boundary, and I think the way the story handles that matters.
And then there is Dean.
Oh, Dean....
I had very little patience for him from the beginning.
His own abusive environment may help explain where some of his behaviour comes from, but it certainly does not excuse what he does to Willow.
Watching him manipulate, diminish, control, and psychologically hurt her made me want to reach through the pages more than once.
What impressed me most about this book, though, was the way the author creates tension without needing to constantly show us violence.
You can feel Willow's fear in the way she thinks, behaves, chooses, and relates to the people around her.
The writing pays close attention to her emotional state, and there were moments when the tension was almost tangible.
I also loved the importance of books within the story.
For Willow, they become more than something to read.
They become a doorway into another world, a place to breathe, and eventually a way of understanding that perhaps her life does not have to remain the way it has always been.
I didn't love this story in the way I love the books that completely consume me.
But I couldn't be indifferent to it.
And somehow, that feels even more important.
This book left me thinking about Willow long after I finished reading.
About children who grow up without the safety, love, and protection they should have been able to take for granted.
About the adults who are supposed to protect them and sometimes fail them.
About systems that can become more concerned with passing responsibility along than with actually seeing the child standing in front of them.
There are, thankfully, people who do protect, nurture, foster, and love these children as they deserve.
But this story made me think about the ones who fall through the cracks.
The children whose childhood becomes a succession of traumas while the adults around them somehow fail to see the full picture.
That is a terrifying thought.
And yet, this is not a story without light.
It is painful, but it is also hopeful.
There is darkness here, but there is love.
There is fear, but there is courage.
There is trauma, but there is the possibility of healing.
And ultimately, there is hope.
The ending felt almost poetic to me.
Not because everything that happened can simply be erased, but because it felt like the closing of a circle, the kind of ending that reminds us that what happened to someone does not have to determine everything that comes after.
It reminded me that sometimes surviving is only the first step.
Sometimes, the real victory is finally learning that you are allowed to live.
This is a painful story, but it is also a story about perseverance, love, and finding a way forward when life has given you every reason to stop.
I didn't finish it thinking, "I loved this book."
I finished it thinking, "this story deserves to be read".
And shared.
And, perhaps most importantly, reflected upon.
Because children like Willow should never have to become this strong just to survive.
This story broke my heart.
Not because it is relentlessly graphic or because every terrible thing Willow has endured is described in excruciating detail.
In fact, I was grateful that the author chose not to go deeply into some of the abuse, especially when it comes to Willow’s childhood.
I find those scenes incredibly difficult to read, and the way they are handled here gives us enough to understand the magnitude of what she went through without turning her suffering into something to be consumed.
Because the greatest horror in this story is not always physical.
It is psychological.
It is the constant tension that follows Willow everywhere.
The way she watches people.
Measures every word.
Calculates every reaction.
Thinks before she speaks.
Tries not to attract attention.
Tries not to anger Dean.
Tries to appear fine when she is anything but fine.
She has spent so much of her life surviving that simply existing without fear feels almost foreign to her.
Willow is, in many ways, a girl who has been drowning for most of her life, desperately trying to keep her head above a cold and violent sea.
And she is incredibly brave.
Not because she is fearless, but because she keeps going despite being terrified.
Greyson becomes the first person who makes her feel as though she can finally breathe with her head above the water.
Through books, quiet support, kindness, and his presence, he gives Willow something she has barely known before: a space where she can slowly begin to be herself.
I appreciated that the story does not pretend their relationship is simple or acceptable simply because there are feelings involved.
The student/teacher dynamic creates an undeniable ethical boundary, and I think the way the story handles that matters.
And then there is Dean.
Oh, Dean....
I had very little patience for him from the beginning.
His own abusive environment may help explain where some of his behaviour comes from, but it certainly does not excuse what he does to Willow.
Watching him manipulate, diminish, control, and psychologically hurt her made me want to reach through the pages more than once.
What impressed me most about this book, though, was the way the author creates tension without needing to constantly show us violence.
You can feel Willow's fear in the way she thinks, behaves, chooses, and relates to the people around her.
The writing pays close attention to her emotional state, and there were moments when the tension was almost tangible.
I also loved the importance of books within the story.
For Willow, they become more than something to read.
They become a doorway into another world, a place to breathe, and eventually a way of understanding that perhaps her life does not have to remain the way it has always been.
I didn't love this story in the way I love the books that completely consume me.
But I couldn't be indifferent to it.
And somehow, that feels even more important.
This book left me thinking about Willow long after I finished reading.
About children who grow up without the safety, love, and protection they should have been able to take for granted.
About the adults who are supposed to protect them and sometimes fail them.
About systems that can become more concerned with passing responsibility along than with actually seeing the child standing in front of them.
There are, thankfully, people who do protect, nurture, foster, and love these children as they deserve.
But this story made me think about the ones who fall through the cracks.
The children whose childhood becomes a succession of traumas while the adults around them somehow fail to see the full picture.
That is a terrifying thought.
And yet, this is not a story without light.
It is painful, but it is also hopeful.
There is darkness here, but there is love.
There is fear, but there is courage.
There is trauma, but there is the possibility of healing.
And ultimately, there is hope.
The ending felt almost poetic to me.
Not because everything that happened can simply be erased, but because it felt like the closing of a circle, the kind of ending that reminds us that what happened to someone does not have to determine everything that comes after.
It reminded me that sometimes surviving is only the first step.
Sometimes, the real victory is finally learning that you are allowed to live.
This is a painful story, but it is also a story about perseverance, love, and finding a way forward when life has given you every reason to stop.
I didn't finish it thinking, "I loved this book."
I finished it thinking, "this story deserves to be read".
And shared.
And, perhaps most importantly, reflected upon.
Because children like Willow should never have to become this strong just to survive.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Maybe hurt people heal too”… 🥹😮💨
First things first, INFINITY stars. Period, hands down. I will think about this book for the rest of my entire life. I’m fairly certain this is maybe authors debut novel and she gets every piece of my standing ovation and I’ll read ANYTHING she writes. I’ll read this book again and again.
The impact from this book was full body. It wasn’t soft or easy, it was every sharp edge that made you feel it going through.. Willow and i have shared so many similarities sometimes i thought i was reading about myself. The journey my baby willow endured and her still being thankful for life. 😭😭 i cried throughout this entire book. I love them so much..
The fact that they were fostering.. wow. A full circle moment for some of my favorite characters ever.
I found my Gray in life. 💙
First things first, INFINITY stars. Period, hands down. I will think about this book for the rest of my entire life. I’m fairly certain this is maybe authors debut novel and she gets every piece of my standing ovation and I’ll read ANYTHING she writes. I’ll read this book again and again.
The impact from this book was full body. It wasn’t soft or easy, it was every sharp edge that made you feel it going through.. Willow and i have shared so many similarities sometimes i thought i was reading about myself. The journey my baby willow endured and her still being thankful for life. 😭😭 i cried throughout this entire book. I love them so much..
The fact that they were fostering.. wow. A full circle moment for some of my favorite characters ever.
I found my Gray in life. 💙
Review of advance copy received from Author
**This was given by the author as an Arc read, I was not paid to leave a review**
I don't really know where to start, I devoured this book in 1 evening, i had to keep going, i needed to know what happened next.
Willow is 1 hell of a girl, who has struggled all her life by other people's hands/behaviour. She lost her parents at such a young age, and from then on was mistreated severely.... I mean making her sleep in a kennel was just the start.....
My heart broke for her, I wished so badly to jump in the story to help her. There's the boyfriend, with his abusive dad and learnt behaviour from that, his 'apologies', the flowers, the empty promises, she needed someone safe and got him, someone who blamed his hateful speech and physical blows on his father, yet they were his words/fists, despicable creature!!
Then enter Grayson Parker, the English teacher who loves the subject he teaches and wants to let the students he teaches rise up and make their own decisions about their work, challenges them to make them dig deep, everything a great English teacher should do. He notices Willow's work, he sees the signs of abuse she's hiding in her writing, he wants to help after knowing how destructive an abuser can be, and they fall, you see if happening, the first kiss, they do not know each other yet, then when they realise its teacher/student, they try to stay away, but are constantly drawn back together, he is he4 safety net to start with, then it develops into so much more.
Forbidden - yes, absolutely....
Immoral- completely...
If in real life - abuse of power/stature, criminal offence, in literature however - so hot!!! Haha.
I absolutely loved this book, and I'm so glad I was able to read it as an Arc reader. Thank you Maisie.
I don't really know where to start, I devoured this book in 1 evening, i had to keep going, i needed to know what happened next.
Willow is 1 hell of a girl, who has struggled all her life by other people's hands/behaviour. She lost her parents at such a young age, and from then on was mistreated severely.... I mean making her sleep in a kennel was just the start.....
My heart broke for her, I wished so badly to jump in the story to help her. There's the boyfriend, with his abusive dad and learnt behaviour from that, his 'apologies', the flowers, the empty promises, she needed someone safe and got him, someone who blamed his hateful speech and physical blows on his father, yet they were his words/fists, despicable creature!!
Then enter Grayson Parker, the English teacher who loves the subject he teaches and wants to let the students he teaches rise up and make their own decisions about their work, challenges them to make them dig deep, everything a great English teacher should do. He notices Willow's work, he sees the signs of abuse she's hiding in her writing, he wants to help after knowing how destructive an abuser can be, and they fall, you see if happening, the first kiss, they do not know each other yet, then when they realise its teacher/student, they try to stay away, but are constantly drawn back together, he is he4 safety net to start with, then it develops into so much more.
Forbidden - yes, absolutely....
Immoral- completely...
If in real life - abuse of power/stature, criminal offence, in literature however - so hot!!! Haha.
I absolutely loved this book, and I'm so glad I was able to read it as an Arc reader. Thank you Maisie.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2026
Absolutely Devastated in the Best Way Possible 🤍
If you’re scrolling through reviews trying to decide if Hurt People is worth your time, stop looking and just go read it. Seriously. This book will strip your soul bare and leave you piecing yourself back together in the absolute best way.
I read this book in one day and it absolutely wrecked me. Maisie Maeve’s writing style is pure, raw magic—it’s exquisite. I honestly don't think I've ever cried this hard over a book before, simply because of how deeply every single word cut. The scenes are so vividly set, pulling up memories that were buried so deeply.
The main character? She felt like a mirror. It’s like the author peeked into the darkest, most private corners of my life—the exact parts I’ve never dared to share out loud—and put them right onto the paper. That numbing weight, the brutal rawness, and that heavy, familiar feeling of settling for what’s safe because you don't think you deserve anything more... it hit so close to home.
To the author: thank you for making us feel seen. Thank you for giving a voice to the heavy thoughts we turn over and over in our heads, the ones we keep locked away because we're terrified of being "too much" or feeling like a burden. You made those hidden feelings heard 🤍🥹
If you need a story that reaches straight into your chest, shatters your heart, and honors every piece of it, do yourself a favor and dive in immediately. 5/5 stars doesn't even come close. It truly has become my favorite book of the year and is in the top three reads in my life. I truly cannot wait to read more of her books in the future.🙏
If you’re scrolling through reviews trying to decide if Hurt People is worth your time, stop looking and just go read it. Seriously. This book will strip your soul bare and leave you piecing yourself back together in the absolute best way.
I read this book in one day and it absolutely wrecked me. Maisie Maeve’s writing style is pure, raw magic—it’s exquisite. I honestly don't think I've ever cried this hard over a book before, simply because of how deeply every single word cut. The scenes are so vividly set, pulling up memories that were buried so deeply.
The main character? She felt like a mirror. It’s like the author peeked into the darkest, most private corners of my life—the exact parts I’ve never dared to share out loud—and put them right onto the paper. That numbing weight, the brutal rawness, and that heavy, familiar feeling of settling for what’s safe because you don't think you deserve anything more... it hit so close to home.
To the author: thank you for making us feel seen. Thank you for giving a voice to the heavy thoughts we turn over and over in our heads, the ones we keep locked away because we're terrified of being "too much" or feeling like a burden. You made those hidden feelings heard 🤍🥹
If you need a story that reaches straight into your chest, shatters your heart, and honors every piece of it, do yourself a favor and dive in immediately. 5/5 stars doesn't even come close. It truly has become my favorite book of the year and is in the top three reads in my life. I truly cannot wait to read more of her books in the future.🙏
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Maisie for the opportunity to review this book!
Hurt People by Maisie Maeve is one of those books that stays with you.
Willow wears her experiences in her bones. Her trauma is never softened or simplified, and the resilience she shows in learning to live beyond it feels remarkably raw and honest. She is a character who feels deeply human... flawed, hurting, and determined to keep moving forward.
Grayson’s role in her journey is just as compelling. I loved the way he can hold space for Willow while still challenging her, both emotionally and academically. Their connection feels grounded in genuine understanding, and their conversations about writing, books, and ideas were some of my favorite parts of the story. They reveal a relationship that goes far beyond attraction.
Maisie Maeve’s writing is immersive, particularly in the quieter moments. The emotional weight of each scene comes through in the characters’ thoughts and conversations, creating a sense of intimacy that makes it easy to get lost in their experiences.
And the spice? Delicious. More importantly, it serves the story. The intimate scenes deepen the characters’ relationship and reflect where they are emotionally rather than existing simply for the sake of spice, which makes them that much more satisfying.
A raw, emotionally immersive story about trauma, resilience, connection, and finding someone who challenges you to become more of yourself.
Hurt People by Maisie Maeve is one of those books that stays with you.
Willow wears her experiences in her bones. Her trauma is never softened or simplified, and the resilience she shows in learning to live beyond it feels remarkably raw and honest. She is a character who feels deeply human... flawed, hurting, and determined to keep moving forward.
Grayson’s role in her journey is just as compelling. I loved the way he can hold space for Willow while still challenging her, both emotionally and academically. Their connection feels grounded in genuine understanding, and their conversations about writing, books, and ideas were some of my favorite parts of the story. They reveal a relationship that goes far beyond attraction.
Maisie Maeve’s writing is immersive, particularly in the quieter moments. The emotional weight of each scene comes through in the characters’ thoughts and conversations, creating a sense of intimacy that makes it easy to get lost in their experiences.
And the spice? Delicious. More importantly, it serves the story. The intimate scenes deepen the characters’ relationship and reflect where they are emotionally rather than existing simply for the sake of spice, which makes them that much more satisfying.
A raw, emotionally immersive story about trauma, resilience, connection, and finding someone who challenges you to become more of yourself.
September 18, 2026
I received the e-arc for Hurt People earlier this week and I finished it within a few hours (took a night to wrap it up.) I loved the story sooo much. It was such a heartbreaking yet tender tale that saw light at the end in form of the love and comfort that Gray and Willow find in each other. I adore Greyson so much, he was so real and raw. How could I not fall for him? The maturity, intensity of care and patience he has towards Willow despite his grief ridden past made me weep and feel for him so so much. And Willow...😭the world tried to break her in so many ways since she was a kiddo but her resilience, tender heart with spine of steel...wow. Gray and Willow together are fire and passion. From the first meet to their journey of professional boundaries to finding solace in each other. The relationship dynamics were explored so beautifully and maturely. Thanks for writing not only about being a victim of abuse but also rising from its ashes and finding love. Greyson has his own set of skeletons and yet he wants to protect Willow and🥺 Willow tries to be there for him as much as he becomes her peaceful place in a difficult world. I loved the storyline, the leads and how it explores the theme that it takes so much from within to choose what could be when what there is, whether good or bad, is all you've ever known or life has given you. Waiting for more from the author.
Love,
S.
Love,
S.
September 5, 2026
I received an ARC for this book for my honest review !
I am honestly so surprised that this is this authors debut novel. From the second I picked this book up I was consumed with Willow’s story. I read it in a single sitting and didn’t put it down until I was done which was around 2am.
The writing in this is phenomenal.
I love a good depressed fmc but she was also so strong and kept pushing to stay (pay attention to your mental health before/while reading this book) You felt everything Willow was going through. Even though you want to hate Dean (her bf in the beginning) you can understand why she kept forgiving him. I felt like I was Willow with the way her emotions and thoughts were written. I wanted to scream at her while giving her the biggest hug.
Then there’s our mmc Grayson who is doing what he thinks is right because the entire system has failed them both. He is everything she needs. Keep in mind that this is a SLOW burn and it isn’t the typical possessive student teacher I am used to but none of that would have worked for this story. The slow burn made everything worth it and it made sense for Willows story.
Bottom line I think this book was fantastic and I can’t wait to see more from this author !
I am honestly so surprised that this is this authors debut novel. From the second I picked this book up I was consumed with Willow’s story. I read it in a single sitting and didn’t put it down until I was done which was around 2am.
The writing in this is phenomenal.
I love a good depressed fmc but she was also so strong and kept pushing to stay (pay attention to your mental health before/while reading this book) You felt everything Willow was going through. Even though you want to hate Dean (her bf in the beginning) you can understand why she kept forgiving him. I felt like I was Willow with the way her emotions and thoughts were written. I wanted to scream at her while giving her the biggest hug.
Then there’s our mmc Grayson who is doing what he thinks is right because the entire system has failed them both. He is everything she needs. Keep in mind that this is a SLOW burn and it isn’t the typical possessive student teacher I am used to but none of that would have worked for this story. The slow burn made everything worth it and it made sense for Willows story.
Bottom line I think this book was fantastic and I can’t wait to see more from this author !
September 9, 2026
Read the TW!
This handled the small age gap and teacher/student relationship well in my opinion.
Willow is a deeply traumatized 18 year old FMC who clings to what she knows. This has abuse in it and honestly it was realistic. Some people become less of what they once were... you could see the battle of her knowing it was a cycle but still not breaking free.
Grayson was 24 and sees her and what she hides. He also was written to be a fantastic english teacher. I liked the prompts he did in class. He has his own trauma and he talks of it later on but he was really mature in his thinking.
I actually was really nervous on Samantha and Jade. I wasn't sure if they were going to be mean girls and I was so happy they weren't written that way.
Dean.... oh that man is the worst and absolutely could never be redeemed.
This story had well done lines that had me deeply thinking about it.
"Trauma" “That it isn’t something that lives exclusively in the person it happened to. It lives in the places. The rooms. You can leave the house, but the house doesn’t leave you.”
"He talks about inherited geography. About the way violence writes itself into the body at the cellular level and the body passes it down."
"Maybe hurt people heal people too."
This handled the small age gap and teacher/student relationship well in my opinion.
Willow is a deeply traumatized 18 year old FMC who clings to what she knows. This has abuse in it and honestly it was realistic. Some people become less of what they once were... you could see the battle of her knowing it was a cycle but still not breaking free.
Grayson was 24 and sees her and what she hides. He also was written to be a fantastic english teacher. I liked the prompts he did in class. He has his own trauma and he talks of it later on but he was really mature in his thinking.
I actually was really nervous on Samantha and Jade. I wasn't sure if they were going to be mean girls and I was so happy they weren't written that way.
Dean.... oh that man is the worst and absolutely could never be redeemed.
This story had well done lines that had me deeply thinking about it.
"Trauma" “That it isn’t something that lives exclusively in the person it happened to. It lives in the places. The rooms. You can leave the house, but the house doesn’t leave you.”
"He talks about inherited geography. About the way violence writes itself into the body at the cellular level and the body passes it down."
"Maybe hurt people heal people too."
Review of advance copy received from Author
*Received Advanced Reader Copy from author*
The teacher-student trope is one I always approach cautiously. When it’s done right, though, it’s one of my favorite tropes, and Maisie Maeve did it phenomenally.
This book hooked me from the very first chapter.
The dynamic between Willow and Greyson is such a compelling example of what it looks like to break the cycle of hurt and trauma. The title, Hurt People, immediately made me think of the quote, “hurt people hurt people,” which feels like one of the central themes woven throughout the entire story.
I especially loved seeing the differences between Dean and Willow’s hurt versus Greyson’s, and how each of their individual traumas manifests throughout the story. They’ve all hurt each other in completely different ways, and watching those dynamics unfold on the page was fascinating as a reader.
Maisie Maeve did such a great job of making the characters’ pain feel complex rather than simply good versus bad. The story really captures how unresolved hurt can be passed from person to person, and more importantly, what it can look like when someone finally chooses to break that cycle.
The teacher-student trope is one I always approach cautiously. When it’s done right, though, it’s one of my favorite tropes, and Maisie Maeve did it phenomenally.
This book hooked me from the very first chapter.
The dynamic between Willow and Greyson is such a compelling example of what it looks like to break the cycle of hurt and trauma. The title, Hurt People, immediately made me think of the quote, “hurt people hurt people,” which feels like one of the central themes woven throughout the entire story.
I especially loved seeing the differences between Dean and Willow’s hurt versus Greyson’s, and how each of their individual traumas manifests throughout the story. They’ve all hurt each other in completely different ways, and watching those dynamics unfold on the page was fascinating as a reader.
Maisie Maeve did such a great job of making the characters’ pain feel complex rather than simply good versus bad. The story really captures how unresolved hurt can be passed from person to person, and more importantly, what it can look like when someone finally chooses to break that cycle.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Hurt people hurt people. I know that. I’ve always known that”
“Maybe hurt people heal people too”
🖤🖤🖤
This book was devastating, deep and beautiful.
My emotions were wrecked from the very beginning with the Before section. Before chapter one even got here, tears running down my face.
Willow had it so rough. For so long. It was all she knew. Until him. Until Grayson. The man on the beach who became everything she needed.
🖤🖤🖤
From what I can gather this was this author’s debut. And my gosh what a debut.
There are authors you can tell when reading their first book, that it’s the first…sometimes it’s messy, sometimes it feels young when it’s not, like you can tell they love to read and just decided to be an author one day.
This book, this author….the writing was so good, the storyline so deep, the subject matter was soul crushing and at the same time centered around an AP English class. All of this really makes me question if this author has a background in literature. This is not just an author, this is a writer.
“Maybe hurt people heal people too”
🖤🖤🖤
This book was devastating, deep and beautiful.
My emotions were wrecked from the very beginning with the Before section. Before chapter one even got here, tears running down my face.
Willow had it so rough. For so long. It was all she knew. Until him. Until Grayson. The man on the beach who became everything she needed.
🖤🖤🖤
From what I can gather this was this author’s debut. And my gosh what a debut.
There are authors you can tell when reading their first book, that it’s the first…sometimes it’s messy, sometimes it feels young when it’s not, like you can tell they love to read and just decided to be an author one day.
This book, this author….the writing was so good, the storyline so deep, the subject matter was soul crushing and at the same time centered around an AP English class. All of this really makes me question if this author has a background in literature. This is not just an author, this is a writer.
September 5, 2026
Thank you to Maisie for allowing me the pleasure of reading and reviewing the ARC.
Wow.
Hurt People is devastating. I don't cry often but this made me tear up. My review isn't going to do this book justice, let me just say that.
The way Maisie wrote Willow's trauma and experiences and how they bled into even the happiest of her moments was extraordinary. I have rarely seen such a writing style from an author before but I'm obsessed with the masterpiece Maisie is able to put onto a page.
I read and finished this book in one sitting. Was that a good idea for my mental health? Probably not. But I was too lost to put it down. When I finished, I just sat in silence and let this story sit with me. I resonated with parts of Willow and I had so many emotions and feelings that just sitting in silence and existing after I finished the book was the only thing I could do.
And this is a debut? I can't wait to see it take off the way it deserves.
Wow.
Wow.
Hurt People is devastating. I don't cry often but this made me tear up. My review isn't going to do this book justice, let me just say that.
The way Maisie wrote Willow's trauma and experiences and how they bled into even the happiest of her moments was extraordinary. I have rarely seen such a writing style from an author before but I'm obsessed with the masterpiece Maisie is able to put onto a page.
I read and finished this book in one sitting. Was that a good idea for my mental health? Probably not. But I was too lost to put it down. When I finished, I just sat in silence and let this story sit with me. I resonated with parts of Willow and I had so many emotions and feelings that just sitting in silence and existing after I finished the book was the only thing I could do.
And this is a debut? I can't wait to see it take off the way it deserves.
Wow.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don't think there are enough words to describe this book. It gave me all the feels and I could not put this book down.
Hurt People by Maisie Maeve had me wanting to bawl my eyes out often, fist pump whenever Willow did something great, swoon when Greyson does exactly what he should, and yell because just when I thought Dean couldn't suck anymore than he already does, he sucks more.
The character development that Willow has is just amazing. The way her relationship with Greyson builds is utterly perfect.
Part of me is really hoping that (in the future) Dean can get his act together and recieve the help he actually needs.
Hurt People explores darker themes including childhood trauma, abuse within the foster system, toxic relationships, implied SA, and more.
Please check the content warnings reading.
I received this eARC from the author/publisher, but this honest review is voluntary.
Hurt People by Maisie Maeve had me wanting to bawl my eyes out often, fist pump whenever Willow did something great, swoon when Greyson does exactly what he should, and yell because just when I thought Dean couldn't suck anymore than he already does, he sucks more.
The character development that Willow has is just amazing. The way her relationship with Greyson builds is utterly perfect.
Part of me is really hoping that (in the future) Dean can get his act together and recieve the help he actually needs.
Hurt People explores darker themes including childhood trauma, abuse within the foster system, toxic relationships, implied SA, and more.
Please check the content warnings reading.
I received this eARC from the author/publisher, but this honest review is voluntary.
September 7, 2026
Thank you Maisie Maeve for letting me read and review an ARC for this book!
Hurt People completely wrecked me in the best way. Maisie Maeve has such a beautiful way of writing characters who are messy, hurting, and trying to find their way through everything they’ve been carrying.
This book made me feel so many things. The characters felt incredibly real, and I loved watching their walls slowly come down and seeing the little pieces of vulnerability underneath. There were moments that made my heart hurt, moments that made me smile, and plenty where I just had to sit with what I’d read for a minute.
I especially loved the emotional depth of this story. It’s the kind of book that reminds you that people can be hurting in ways you can’t always see, and that sometimes finding the right person can feel like finally being understood.
Hurt People completely wrecked me in the best way. Maisie Maeve has such a beautiful way of writing characters who are messy, hurting, and trying to find their way through everything they’ve been carrying.
This book made me feel so many things. The characters felt incredibly real, and I loved watching their walls slowly come down and seeing the little pieces of vulnerability underneath. There were moments that made my heart hurt, moments that made me smile, and plenty where I just had to sit with what I’d read for a minute.
I especially loved the emotional depth of this story. It’s the kind of book that reminds you that people can be hurting in ways you can’t always see, and that sometimes finding the right person can feel like finally being understood.
September 30, 2026
🩷Before reading this book, please read the trigger warnings.
It handles extremely heavy topics that may be difficult for some. 🩷
This book is an easy 5⭐'s
✨Hurt people changed me in the best possible way✨
Reading this book takes you on an emotional rollercoaster.
✨I cried, I giggled and I swooned✨
The characters in this book have dealt with unimaginable situations, and turn to each other for support and love...and reading the emotional connection these two had, was beautiful.
I read this book in under 24 hours, and I'm shook that it's this authors debut novel.
If you love a taboo romance, with a beautiful healing journey and two people who can't deny there connection...then I HIGHLY recommend reading this when it's released🫶🏼
It handles extremely heavy topics that may be difficult for some. 🩷
This book is an easy 5⭐'s
✨Hurt people changed me in the best possible way✨
Reading this book takes you on an emotional rollercoaster.
✨I cried, I giggled and I swooned✨
The characters in this book have dealt with unimaginable situations, and turn to each other for support and love...and reading the emotional connection these two had, was beautiful.
I read this book in under 24 hours, and I'm shook that it's this authors debut novel.
If you love a taboo romance, with a beautiful healing journey and two people who can't deny there connection...then I HIGHLY recommend reading this when it's released🫶🏼
Review of advance copy received from Author
So first let me start by saying wow, this book was so beautifully written. Watching Willow grow into her character and become bolder and stronger reminded me of myself when I was younger. Watching her struggle with toxic relationships from every angle and allowing herself to be stepped all over hurt to read but watching her slowly realize she doesnt have to do that was heartbreaking beautiful. And I say that knowing how much it hurts to break those cycles but it feels so good when you do. And Grayson was the biggest green flag of a MMC I've ever met. He was dreamy, attentive, smart and he loved our girl! This book is a 100/10 recommend from me
September 9, 2026
Wow this book was such incredibly written that I had to put it down. It hit so many parts in my soul that I didn’t know how to continue without feeling the pain in willows soul because the words were so strong, so real. The strength and pain she went through was immense and it only made her stronger. Grayson is such a great mmc and he has so much care and love in his body especially from his past. The way they love each other is raw. This was a beautiful and hard story but definitely one worth reading. “Maybe hurt people heal people too.” Is such a beautiful statement.
Also fuck you dean.
Also fuck you dean.
September 18, 2026
Review of advanced copy sent by author.
This was a wonderful read. It expressed trauma and taboo topics but with grace and weight to it.
You can tell the author put thought and care into developing each character.
This book tugged on all my hart strings in just the right ways. I felt her pain, sadness and anger. I also felt her courage and strength through each step of the way.
Can’t wait to look into other titles this author has made.
This was a wonderful read. It expressed trauma and taboo topics but with grace and weight to it.
You can tell the author put thought and care into developing each character.
This book tugged on all my hart strings in just the right ways. I felt her pain, sadness and anger. I also felt her courage and strength through each step of the way.
Can’t wait to look into other titles this author has made.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is a MUST! It has a lot of depth to it and goes into some unloved topics, but to me that's what made it a better book! The author wrote out the FMC amazingly! I also love how even though the FMC was happy and safe the author still wrote in how her past affects her current situations! Definitely going to be purchasing a physical copy once it releases!
September 9, 2026
Maisie you did such a wonderful job on your debut book! I was so surprised to hear it was your first because of how well written this one was. Your writing is very poetic. I love an angsty read and I fell in love with Grayson and Willow. They both came from tragic backgrounds and they ended up finding healing within each other. I can’t wait to read more from you in the years ahead 💜
September 11, 2026
Review...
This is an emotional story, Willow is the FMC and wears her emotional clearly.
Her trauma was shocking, from loosing her parents when young, to the abuse she suffered all her life. Willow was so strong and resilient.
The characters felt real, Grayson is such an amazing character, he has so much love for willow and it shows in the writing. Lovely book.
This is an emotional story, Willow is the FMC and wears her emotional clearly.
Her trauma was shocking, from loosing her parents when young, to the abuse she suffered all her life. Willow was so strong and resilient.
The characters felt real, Grayson is such an amazing character, he has so much love for willow and it shows in the writing. Lovely book.
September 13, 2026
I loved this story it has really depth and real emotions I have never been in this situation myself howver I felt for the characters and felt like I was right there with them im so happy the story ended on a high and willow got the ending she deserved this was a new author for me howver I will be reading more of her work if i could have given more stars i would have
September 15, 2026
Thank you Maisie for this beautiful ARC 🫶🏻
Wow. Just wow. What a debut. I was hooked from the start but wanted to take it in and slow down rather than binging it. This story is so painful, so raw yet so beautiful. I started to worry we wouldn’t get a HEA because of everything Willow had been and continued to go through but the ending was perfect.
Wow. Just wow. What a debut. I was hooked from the start but wanted to take it in and slow down rather than binging it. This story is so painful, so raw yet so beautiful. I started to worry we wouldn’t get a HEA because of everything Willow had been and continued to go through but the ending was perfect.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It only took me two days to read this, if I didn't work a full-time job I would have read it in one! It was surprising, half-way through chapter one you're already being dragged into the story. I won't do any spoilers and ruin it for anyone but wow. This was a great read and I'll be buying the physical copy when it comes out! Thank you Maisie Maeve for such a brave story, I loved it.
September 18, 2026
This gave me all the feels. It was devastating and heartbreaking reading through everything Willow has been through (check TW’s). Grayson was such a protector and sees everything Willow tries to hide. In my opinion, this book dealt with the teacher/student and slight age gap well. Overall, a good read but heartbreaking read.
September 18, 2026
I cant begin to describe how this book made me feel. I connected with this book more then im willing to admit. It was hard to put down and it has healed a part of me I didnt know i needed healing. This book has left a mark and it will stay with me for a long time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Phenomenal debut.
September 29, 2026
The tears that I cried is unreal. A beautifully written story of pain, heartache, unfairness, hurt, healing, love, and hope.
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