What do you think?
Rate this book
Age of Consent
From the author of Daniel Isn’t Talking and Dying Young comes a shattering new novel, a page-turner about an estranged mother and daughter who must come to terms with their shared painful past
Thirty years ago, June was a young widow with a hopeless crush on a Craig Kirtz, a disc jockey at a local rock station. To her surprise, the two struck up a friendship that seemed headed for something more. But it was June’s thirteen-year-old daughter, Bobbie, whom Craig had wanted all along. Bobbie thought her secret life—the sex, the drugs, the illicit relationship itself—could remain safely buried in the past. But when she discovers that Craig had similarly pursued any number of other young girls, Bobbie returns home after a long absence with one purpose in mind: to bring Craig to trial.
Her decision is greeted with mixed feelings. Some people think that bringing charges against someone for a crime committed so many years ago is unjustified. She’s called a “middle-aged woman with a vendetta.” She’s accused of waging war against her own family. June remembers things differently from the way Bobbie does. Craig insists he has done nothing wrong. But the past has a way of revealing itself, and some relationships lay dormant through the years, ready to stir to life at the slightest provocation.
While their traumatic history is relived in the courtroom, Bobbie and June must face the choices they made and try to make sense of the pain they endured while seeking justice at long last. Told with warmth and compassion, this is a moving, deeply absorbing story of a family in crisis.
Thirty years ago, June was a young widow with a hopeless crush on a Craig Kirtz, a disc jockey at a local rock station. To her surprise, the two struck up a friendship that seemed headed for something more. But it was June’s thirteen-year-old daughter, Bobbie, whom Craig had wanted all along. Bobbie thought her secret life—the sex, the drugs, the illicit relationship itself—could remain safely buried in the past. But when she discovers that Craig had similarly pursued any number of other young girls, Bobbie returns home after a long absence with one purpose in mind: to bring Craig to trial.
Her decision is greeted with mixed feelings. Some people think that bringing charges against someone for a crime committed so many years ago is unjustified. She’s called a “middle-aged woman with a vendetta.” She’s accused of waging war against her own family. June remembers things differently from the way Bobbie does. Craig insists he has done nothing wrong. But the past has a way of revealing itself, and some relationships lay dormant through the years, ready to stir to life at the slightest provocation.
While their traumatic history is relived in the courtroom, Bobbie and June must face the choices they made and try to make sense of the pain they endured while seeking justice at long last. Told with warmth and compassion, this is a moving, deeply absorbing story of a family in crisis.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published July 14, 2016
15 people are currently reading
1011 people want to read
About the author
Marti Leimbach
23 books122 followersI write contemporary fiction for young adults and adults, though right now I'm concentrating on my YA thriller series, kicking off with Dragonfly Girl published by Harper Collins Feb '21.
I'm on Goodreads, but if you have questions you can also find me on Twitter https://twitter.com/MartiLeimbach
or on Instagram: marti.leimbach
In addition to all things literary, I'm interested in neurodiversity, young inventors, and science.
I teach on the Masters Programme in Creative Writing at the University of Oxford as a fiction tutor. My students are amazing!
When I'm not writing or teaching or reading, I'm looking after a small flock of Ryleand sheep, walking may Shetland sheepdog or hanging out with the fancy rats I breed as part of the National Fancy Rat Society, UK. You can find me at www.martileimbach.com and I LOVE to hear from readers!
I'm on Goodreads, but if you have questions you can also find me on Twitter https://twitter.com/MartiLeimbach
or on Instagram: marti.leimbach
In addition to all things literary, I'm interested in neurodiversity, young inventors, and science.
I teach on the Masters Programme in Creative Writing at the University of Oxford as a fiction tutor. My students are amazing!
When I'm not writing or teaching or reading, I'm looking after a small flock of Ryleand sheep, walking may Shetland sheepdog or hanging out with the fancy rats I breed as part of the National Fancy Rat Society, UK. You can find me at www.martileimbach.com and I LOVE to hear from readers!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
September 3, 2016
Due to the subject matter of The Age of Consent, I found the book hard to read. However, it is worth reading.
When she was just 13 years old, Bobbie was lured into a sexually and emotionally abusive relationship with local radio celebrity, Craig Kirtz. The abuse goes on for several years until an accident occurs that eventually allows Bobbie to escape. Throughout this time, Bobbie’s mother, June, turned a blind eye to what was happening to her daughter, as she had a crush on Craig.
Fast-forward 30 years--June is married to Craig. She hasn’t seen Bobbie since she ran away from home. Bobbie finally returns to share her story at Craig’s trial. June is in denial that Craig could commit such a crime, and thinks her daughter just wants attention. Now Bobbie must not only face Craig, but the mother who chose to believe her abuser over her daughter.
I found Craig to be one of the vilest characters I have ever read about. However, June was worse. She was so desperate for Craig’s attention that she was willing to let her daughter suffer. Reading this book made me nauseous.
When she was just 13 years old, Bobbie was lured into a sexually and emotionally abusive relationship with local radio celebrity, Craig Kirtz. The abuse goes on for several years until an accident occurs that eventually allows Bobbie to escape. Throughout this time, Bobbie’s mother, June, turned a blind eye to what was happening to her daughter, as she had a crush on Craig.
Fast-forward 30 years--June is married to Craig. She hasn’t seen Bobbie since she ran away from home. Bobbie finally returns to share her story at Craig’s trial. June is in denial that Craig could commit such a crime, and thinks her daughter just wants attention. Now Bobbie must not only face Craig, but the mother who chose to believe her abuser over her daughter.
I found Craig to be one of the vilest characters I have ever read about. However, June was worse. She was so desperate for Craig’s attention that she was willing to let her daughter suffer. Reading this book made me nauseous.
July 26, 2016
A special thank you to Doubleday and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
From the author of Daniel Isn’t Talking and Dying Young, Marti Leimbach delivers a dark and disturbing tale AGE OF CONSENT, a haunting portrayal of a young teenage girl trapped, sexual and psychological abuse, molestation-a relationship with a man- a heavy burden to carry.
Then the unthinkable, he moves into their home, when her own mother takes him in. It is the daughter he is after, not the mother.
It is 1978, Bobbie (Barbara) is a young teenage girl of fifteen years old, attempting to escape the clutches of a psycho-controlling man obsessed with her. He likes them young and flawless. He plays with her mind.
Craig, age twenty-eight years old, a Maryland disc jockey for a local radio station. A secret relationship. A local celebrity. An evil monster.
Bobbie finally gets her shot for escape during an automobile accident. She thinks hopefully he will die. However, the worst thing happens.
He is still alive. Her mother, June is stuck on this guy and visits his hospital daily. He is twisted and her mom falls for him. She is clueless to her daughter’s own needs. He now has the mother and daughter under his sadistic control. The monster isn’t staying away. He is forcing her from her own home. A continuous argument over the $1,000.
The biggest problem of all was how much her mother liked Craig. She would tell him exactly where Bobbie was, none the wiser while Craig set on his hunt.
Bobbie runs away and years later, she returns to the town, for the trial. To bring charges against the man who abused her, after learning he has done to same to other young girls. Decades ago she told herself she would never come back, never even look back. Now here she is.
Alternating between 1978 and 2008, the author details every evil deed and the horrible crimes against a poor young girl. A predator, who makes it his life mission to torture her even years later. (this is one sicko). Now her step-father.
Bobbie feels a combination of tenderness and rage—that her mother could command such love from her, that her mother could sully that love by talking about Craig.
Bobbie has to face the scorn from others and is named a “middle-aged woman with a vendetta.” She’s accused of waging war against her own family. Her step-father. Her mother. Everyone wants to know why she did not speak up years ago.
What about the mother, June who was not there to save and protect her; even during the trial, she takes the monster’s side. A powerful portrayal of mother and daughter (or son); and a link to a master emotional manipulator. From pain, suffering, and loss, a family in crisis. A mix of domestic, crime, and psychological suspense.
Pain, confusion, fear and the capacity of the human spirit to survive and thrive and even take on the burden of other’s guilt.
The dark high-charged subject matter is difficult to read at times. However, a cautionary tale to be mindful of those we bring into our children’s lives. Men can work their ways into a mother’s life to take advantage of the daughter. Also for those suffering from CSA and the devastating psychological effects of a lifetime. Deep shadows lurking.
While reading AGE OF CONSENT, I was also listening to Hollie Overton’s Baby Doll. Both books have predators of young girls (I was hoping someone would kill them both).
For victims, the effects of child sexual abuse can be devastating. Victims may feel significant distress and display a wide range of psychological symptoms, both short-and long-term. They may feel powerless, ashamed, and distrustful of others. Guilt, shame, and blame. As in the book, many perpetrators of sexual abuse are in a position of trust, or responsible for the child’s care, such as a family member, teacher, clergy member, or coach.
The author delivers a realistic view; the heartbreaking emotions from both daughter, mother, and a manipulative narcissist pervert. You will want to scream at the mother to open her eyes. Overall, the author captures the intense emotions and fear, keeping readers page-turning to the very end.
For fans of Chevy Stevens, Karin Slaughter, Heather Gudenkauf, T. Greenwood, Diane Chamberlain, and Jodi Picoult.
JDCMustReadBooks
From the author of Daniel Isn’t Talking and Dying Young, Marti Leimbach delivers a dark and disturbing tale AGE OF CONSENT, a haunting portrayal of a young teenage girl trapped, sexual and psychological abuse, molestation-a relationship with a man- a heavy burden to carry.
Then the unthinkable, he moves into their home, when her own mother takes him in. It is the daughter he is after, not the mother.
It is 1978, Bobbie (Barbara) is a young teenage girl of fifteen years old, attempting to escape the clutches of a psycho-controlling man obsessed with her. He likes them young and flawless. He plays with her mind.
Craig, age twenty-eight years old, a Maryland disc jockey for a local radio station. A secret relationship. A local celebrity. An evil monster.
Bobbie finally gets her shot for escape during an automobile accident. She thinks hopefully he will die. However, the worst thing happens.
He is still alive. Her mother, June is stuck on this guy and visits his hospital daily. He is twisted and her mom falls for him. She is clueless to her daughter’s own needs. He now has the mother and daughter under his sadistic control. The monster isn’t staying away. He is forcing her from her own home. A continuous argument over the $1,000.
The biggest problem of all was how much her mother liked Craig. She would tell him exactly where Bobbie was, none the wiser while Craig set on his hunt.
Bobbie runs away and years later, she returns to the town, for the trial. To bring charges against the man who abused her, after learning he has done to same to other young girls. Decades ago she told herself she would never come back, never even look back. Now here she is.
Alternating between 1978 and 2008, the author details every evil deed and the horrible crimes against a poor young girl. A predator, who makes it his life mission to torture her even years later. (this is one sicko). Now her step-father.
Bobbie feels a combination of tenderness and rage—that her mother could command such love from her, that her mother could sully that love by talking about Craig.
Bobbie has to face the scorn from others and is named a “middle-aged woman with a vendetta.” She’s accused of waging war against her own family. Her step-father. Her mother. Everyone wants to know why she did not speak up years ago.
What about the mother, June who was not there to save and protect her; even during the trial, she takes the monster’s side. A powerful portrayal of mother and daughter (or son); and a link to a master emotional manipulator. From pain, suffering, and loss, a family in crisis. A mix of domestic, crime, and psychological suspense.
Pain, confusion, fear and the capacity of the human spirit to survive and thrive and even take on the burden of other’s guilt.
The dark high-charged subject matter is difficult to read at times. However, a cautionary tale to be mindful of those we bring into our children’s lives. Men can work their ways into a mother’s life to take advantage of the daughter. Also for those suffering from CSA and the devastating psychological effects of a lifetime. Deep shadows lurking.
While reading AGE OF CONSENT, I was also listening to Hollie Overton’s Baby Doll. Both books have predators of young girls (I was hoping someone would kill them both).
For victims, the effects of child sexual abuse can be devastating. Victims may feel significant distress and display a wide range of psychological symptoms, both short-and long-term. They may feel powerless, ashamed, and distrustful of others. Guilt, shame, and blame. As in the book, many perpetrators of sexual abuse are in a position of trust, or responsible for the child’s care, such as a family member, teacher, clergy member, or coach.
The author delivers a realistic view; the heartbreaking emotions from both daughter, mother, and a manipulative narcissist pervert. You will want to scream at the mother to open her eyes. Overall, the author captures the intense emotions and fear, keeping readers page-turning to the very end.
For fans of Chevy Stevens, Karin Slaughter, Heather Gudenkauf, T. Greenwood, Diane Chamberlain, and Jodi Picoult.
JDCMustReadBooks
April 27, 2016
I'll start out by saying that this is a difficult book to read but that as a mother or a daughter or a woman, its a book that you should definitely read. It's a novel about abuse of a child but told in a way that I've never read before and in a way that's really made me think about how evil some people can be to other people.
First the triangle - June is a young widow - not real attractive but she would love to find someone to love. Bobbie is her 13 year old daughter - she is very cute and extremely smart and plans to go to college someday. She loves her mother deeply and tries to take care of her. Craig Kirtz is a local disc jockey who becomes a friend to the small family. June has a major crush on him but it was Bobbie that he was interested in and Bobbie that he seduced at the young age of 14. June has no idea that there is an on going relationship between Craig and Bobbie until years later when Bobbie brings charges against Craig for sexual abuse.
The novel alternates between the past and the present. The reader learns how Bobbie felt during her teenage years and how it affected her as an adult and why she decided to come back to her home town and face Craig and her mother again. By facing her past, she had to re-live it all again.
This is a fantastic novel about a difficult subject. It was so well done that I had trouble putting it down once I started and I was unable to start a new book once I finished it because the character of Bobbie kept resonating in my mind.
Thanks to Goodreads for a copy of this book for a fair and honest review.
First the triangle - June is a young widow - not real attractive but she would love to find someone to love. Bobbie is her 13 year old daughter - she is very cute and extremely smart and plans to go to college someday. She loves her mother deeply and tries to take care of her. Craig Kirtz is a local disc jockey who becomes a friend to the small family. June has a major crush on him but it was Bobbie that he was interested in and Bobbie that he seduced at the young age of 14. June has no idea that there is an on going relationship between Craig and Bobbie until years later when Bobbie brings charges against Craig for sexual abuse.
The novel alternates between the past and the present. The reader learns how Bobbie felt during her teenage years and how it affected her as an adult and why she decided to come back to her home town and face Craig and her mother again. By facing her past, she had to re-live it all again.
This is a fantastic novel about a difficult subject. It was so well done that I had trouble putting it down once I started and I was unable to start a new book once I finished it because the character of Bobbie kept resonating in my mind.
Thanks to Goodreads for a copy of this book for a fair and honest review.
January 19, 2016
Maybe having read so many memoirs and seeing true stories about mothers who overlook the obvious abuse right under their nose for the love of some man is what made this believable. I think of the differing opinions people will have reading about the sexual relationship a teenage girl is having with an older man. Some will say 'this isn't abuse, this girl enjoyed it' - the old 'if someone feels pleasure, they are just as guilty' defense will arise too. It is uncomfortable to discuss but more horrific admit happens, because we know there are children who feel ashamed, as if they are to blame if during any molestation something felt good. Isn't that just one of the vile ways sexual predators have success controlling children? The muddling of what is right and wrong, making them feel they are a part of it is exactly what abusers do to keep their victim chained to them and making the child believe their parent's will be horrified by their 'liking it' because their body reacted.
Bobbie is 13 when the seduction starts, 13! Mother June is blinded by her hunger for popular local celebrity disc jockey Craig Kirtz. We see a lonely single mother, and certainly it is understandable a single mother or father could crave human touch and romantic love- nothing unnatural about that. The disgust comes when June is more invested is this stranger than her own young daughter's strong feelings that she doesn't want him around. Naturally there are children that dislike a potential partner because they don't want another person taking up their parent's attention and time, but the speed at which she brings Craig home is suspect for any parent. Unbeknownst to her, Bobbie and Craig already have a relationship and the accident that has June running to nurse him is the perfect excuse to insinuate herself into his life, and bring the devil into their home. Why is she so quick to spend her time with him, when she has a young girl at home who needs said attention?
This novel goes from past to present, Bobbie has run away from her mother and hasn't seen her for a long time. Now a middle aged woman, it is time to bring Craig's sins to light. When she hears his accusers (also young girls) are disbelieved she knows it's time to set things right.
He is insidious as he manipulates young Bobbie. Her attempts at dodging him, her shame, his relentless pursuit (stalking even) and seduction is enough to make any woman squirm with fear for the young Bobbie and rage with a mother's instinct. And speaking of Mother's instinct, where was June's?
How to be believed in public when one's own mother 'stands by her man' over her now grown daughter, possibly even changing history to make herself believe that her 'bad seed' child is just lying so she can hold on to the man she loves. And as June herself is seduced by Craig, we wonder as much as she herself does what is so appealing about him as he is crude, vile and even cruel. Manipulator's are pros, it's how they get away with things. But I had a hard to exonerating June for her selective reality, so to speak. It is a parent's job to protect their children, and often that means sacrificing one's own needs.
I didn't feel Bobbie was solid enough to make good choices or be held accountable for her end of the 'relationship' because it is child abuse here. I would go so far as to say young girls are prime targets for such men because it makes them feel special to be singled out by 'older guys'. Girls are conflicted when they are coming into their sexuality and blossoming just as much as boys. Something happens where men start noticing the changes and so many girls go between liking the attention and feeling ashamed of it. As many women can think back on, men can be admiring or downright leering and vile. It is a confusing time in a young girl's life, and more so in one without attention. Bobbie has too much free time, and we can't fault her mother for having to work hard to keep a roof over her child's head but this lack of supervision is how Craig creeps in.
Maybe because I am older now, I see Bobbie differently than other teen girls would. I can even remember back in my youth a handful of girls that were dating men in their 20's (I remember one girl whose parents were fine with it), this was in junior high! Back then, other girls would either think 'wow, she's so lucky' or 'what a slut.' We all know when it's a teen boy and older woman it's 'man I wish I had a hot woman like that when I was a kid' and boys tend to be impressed by said boy's 'conquest'. It wasn't too often that peers would think 'that is creepy and wrong.' That in itself makes me ponder the difference between adults and kids. What sort of man or woman is spending their time seducing 13 year olds? How exactly can the blame ever be put on a child? Especially a child in dire need of attention, starving for it. Then take into account in this story a local celebrity is the seducer, and you just added an even shinier lure for a teenage girl. Attention is something all human beings, at any age, hunger for and so is feeling loved.
Craig uses her shame and naivete to continue abusing her. His swearing he will marry her turns her stomach, so it's obvious to the reader she is not really with him of her own free will, along with the fact she tries to lose him when she comes out of school. She fears him. Drugs are just yet another thing he uses to cloud things. What chance does someone like Bobbie have up against an experienced adult who knows how to cover his sins?
This is one for the book clubs!
Bobbie is 13 when the seduction starts, 13! Mother June is blinded by her hunger for popular local celebrity disc jockey Craig Kirtz. We see a lonely single mother, and certainly it is understandable a single mother or father could crave human touch and romantic love- nothing unnatural about that. The disgust comes when June is more invested is this stranger than her own young daughter's strong feelings that she doesn't want him around. Naturally there are children that dislike a potential partner because they don't want another person taking up their parent's attention and time, but the speed at which she brings Craig home is suspect for any parent. Unbeknownst to her, Bobbie and Craig already have a relationship and the accident that has June running to nurse him is the perfect excuse to insinuate herself into his life, and bring the devil into their home. Why is she so quick to spend her time with him, when she has a young girl at home who needs said attention?
This novel goes from past to present, Bobbie has run away from her mother and hasn't seen her for a long time. Now a middle aged woman, it is time to bring Craig's sins to light. When she hears his accusers (also young girls) are disbelieved she knows it's time to set things right.
He is insidious as he manipulates young Bobbie. Her attempts at dodging him, her shame, his relentless pursuit (stalking even) and seduction is enough to make any woman squirm with fear for the young Bobbie and rage with a mother's instinct. And speaking of Mother's instinct, where was June's?
How to be believed in public when one's own mother 'stands by her man' over her now grown daughter, possibly even changing history to make herself believe that her 'bad seed' child is just lying so she can hold on to the man she loves. And as June herself is seduced by Craig, we wonder as much as she herself does what is so appealing about him as he is crude, vile and even cruel. Manipulator's are pros, it's how they get away with things. But I had a hard to exonerating June for her selective reality, so to speak. It is a parent's job to protect their children, and often that means sacrificing one's own needs.
I didn't feel Bobbie was solid enough to make good choices or be held accountable for her end of the 'relationship' because it is child abuse here. I would go so far as to say young girls are prime targets for such men because it makes them feel special to be singled out by 'older guys'. Girls are conflicted when they are coming into their sexuality and blossoming just as much as boys. Something happens where men start noticing the changes and so many girls go between liking the attention and feeling ashamed of it. As many women can think back on, men can be admiring or downright leering and vile. It is a confusing time in a young girl's life, and more so in one without attention. Bobbie has too much free time, and we can't fault her mother for having to work hard to keep a roof over her child's head but this lack of supervision is how Craig creeps in.
Maybe because I am older now, I see Bobbie differently than other teen girls would. I can even remember back in my youth a handful of girls that were dating men in their 20's (I remember one girl whose parents were fine with it), this was in junior high! Back then, other girls would either think 'wow, she's so lucky' or 'what a slut.' We all know when it's a teen boy and older woman it's 'man I wish I had a hot woman like that when I was a kid' and boys tend to be impressed by said boy's 'conquest'. It wasn't too often that peers would think 'that is creepy and wrong.' That in itself makes me ponder the difference between adults and kids. What sort of man or woman is spending their time seducing 13 year olds? How exactly can the blame ever be put on a child? Especially a child in dire need of attention, starving for it. Then take into account in this story a local celebrity is the seducer, and you just added an even shinier lure for a teenage girl. Attention is something all human beings, at any age, hunger for and so is feeling loved.
Craig uses her shame and naivete to continue abusing her. His swearing he will marry her turns her stomach, so it's obvious to the reader she is not really with him of her own free will, along with the fact she tries to lose him when she comes out of school. She fears him. Drugs are just yet another thing he uses to cloud things. What chance does someone like Bobbie have up against an experienced adult who knows how to cover his sins?
This is one for the book clubs!
October 4, 2016
Thank you Bookreporter for giving me this book for an unbiased review.
Based on a vile abuse to under aged children, this book did a very good job of bringing out the horrors that these children go through. Sexually abused for years by a man almost twice her age, Bobbie had to endure the insult of her own mother then inviting this same man into their home.
Told in alternating chapters, at the time of the abuse, and then years later when Bobbie was an adult. Not only did this book express the pain Bobbie was going through, the ignorance of her mother June, the manipulation of the perpetrator Craig - who seduced both Bobbie and June, but also the intense love and friendship of her one friend Dan.
This novel is very well written. It shows how this abuse can happen and go unnoticed, leaving the child to feel both the guilt and the pain. It shows how manipulative the perpetrator can be to avoid being caught and how well they can trap their prey.
I actually enjoyed more the alternating chapters when Bobbie was an adult. It was the accumulation of what had happened and then how it was processed by everyone involved.
This is the first book I have read by this author, but it will not be the last.
Based on a vile abuse to under aged children, this book did a very good job of bringing out the horrors that these children go through. Sexually abused for years by a man almost twice her age, Bobbie had to endure the insult of her own mother then inviting this same man into their home.
Told in alternating chapters, at the time of the abuse, and then years later when Bobbie was an adult. Not only did this book express the pain Bobbie was going through, the ignorance of her mother June, the manipulation of the perpetrator Craig - who seduced both Bobbie and June, but also the intense love and friendship of her one friend Dan.
This novel is very well written. It shows how this abuse can happen and go unnoticed, leaving the child to feel both the guilt and the pain. It shows how manipulative the perpetrator can be to avoid being caught and how well they can trap their prey.
I actually enjoyed more the alternating chapters when Bobbie was an adult. It was the accumulation of what had happened and then how it was processed by everyone involved.
This is the first book I have read by this author, but it will not be the last.
May 6, 2017
AGE OF CONSENT
Written by Marti Leimbach
(Review Not on Blog)
2.5 STARS
The cover of this novel drew me when I was checking items in at work (library). As I read the synopsis, I knew this was going to be a tough book to read due to the subject matter. I prepared myself and delved in.
This story is about Bobbie as a teen and as a 40-something woman. When she was thirteen she met a man who was in late 20s, who then proceeded to prey on her for sexual purposes. The man, Craig, goes so far as to seduce the mother to be closer to the young girl. Fast forward decades later, a young girl accuses Craig of sexual assault which wakes something in Bobbie. Upon learning she is not the only one he has molested she decides to come forward and accuse Craig. Now all the things she purposely kept hidden may come to haunt her and lose the case. Also, her mother does not believe this would happen under her nose and begs her not to make it public. We see how this unfolds in 1978 and "presently" 2008.
I took one star off the rating, as the ending did not reflect rest of the book's pace or the effort that reader puts in to actually finish the book. Age of Consent was written well, and for that I will definitely try another book by Leimbach. I took another star off because of the character development, or rather lack thereof. They alternated between being wooden and cliched. The premise of the novel was intriguing as it is an issue that is still prevalent, so I wished there was a little more to the characters that made them realistic and would make me care more for them. And just a FYI, Julia Roberts' movie Dying Young was originally a novel written by this author.
Written by Marti Leimbach
(Review Not on Blog)
2.5 STARS
The cover of this novel drew me when I was checking items in at work (library). As I read the synopsis, I knew this was going to be a tough book to read due to the subject matter. I prepared myself and delved in.
This story is about Bobbie as a teen and as a 40-something woman. When she was thirteen she met a man who was in late 20s, who then proceeded to prey on her for sexual purposes. The man, Craig, goes so far as to seduce the mother to be closer to the young girl. Fast forward decades later, a young girl accuses Craig of sexual assault which wakes something in Bobbie. Upon learning she is not the only one he has molested she decides to come forward and accuse Craig. Now all the things she purposely kept hidden may come to haunt her and lose the case. Also, her mother does not believe this would happen under her nose and begs her not to make it public. We see how this unfolds in 1978 and "presently" 2008.
I took one star off the rating, as the ending did not reflect rest of the book's pace or the effort that reader puts in to actually finish the book. Age of Consent was written well, and for that I will definitely try another book by Leimbach. I took another star off because of the character development, or rather lack thereof. They alternated between being wooden and cliched. The premise of the novel was intriguing as it is an issue that is still prevalent, so I wished there was a little more to the characters that made them realistic and would make me care more for them. And just a FYI, Julia Roberts' movie Dying Young was originally a novel written by this author.
September 24, 2016
Wow, this is one hell of an impacting story and despite the title and suggestive book cover, there is no gratuitous sex or anything to upset a sensitive reader. This very strong story is told on two timelines thirty years apart mainly by Bobbie, the abused teenager. We start in 1978 with Bobbie and Craig in a motel room and we more than get the idea that Craig is not pleasant person and that Bobbie is in an uncomfortable position that she can't easily get out of. In modern day language, Bobbie has been 'groomed' by Craig and he's manipulated her in such a way that anything that is wrong is her fault. He makes sure that she feels guilty enough of a situation that she feels duty bound to continue to see him and ensures all their meetings are kept secret, no one must find out. Bobbie feels she needs to clean the motel room, or at least make it appear that she/they have not been there. In searching under the bed for any dropped items of clothing, she stumbles upon a rolled up thousand dollars. Much of the story centres around this money which suddenly becomes Craig's money. After an horrific car accident, Bobbie's mother, June, becomes involved with Craig.
Thirty years later, Bobbie has brought Craig to court for his abuse of her when she was a minor. The case is all the more difficult in that Craig is now her step-father and her mother has to testify against Craig and/or Bobbie – supporting one may lose the other from her life. All the above is either in the first chapters or the book's blurb, I am giving no more of the story away but the decisions, lies and issues raised give a very compelling and gripping read.
The characters are well developed and Craig in particular has a paranoid and complex personality – not a nice person but a great fictional character to read about. The lawyers and scenes feel real and well researched although I did have one obvious question that the defense lawyer should have asked and expected that to be part of a twist.
All in all, this was an amazing and well written book touching on a subject that is usually hidden and not talked about. It gives a good insight to the behaviour of both the perpetrator and victim without going into great detail of sex or using it as the major part of the story.
Thirty years later, Bobbie has brought Craig to court for his abuse of her when she was a minor. The case is all the more difficult in that Craig is now her step-father and her mother has to testify against Craig and/or Bobbie – supporting one may lose the other from her life. All the above is either in the first chapters or the book's blurb, I am giving no more of the story away but the decisions, lies and issues raised give a very compelling and gripping read.
The characters are well developed and Craig in particular has a paranoid and complex personality – not a nice person but a great fictional character to read about. The lawyers and scenes feel real and well researched although I did have one obvious question that the defense lawyer should have asked and expected that to be part of a twist.
All in all, this was an amazing and well written book touching on a subject that is usually hidden and not talked about. It gives a good insight to the behaviour of both the perpetrator and victim without going into great detail of sex or using it as the major part of the story.
July 26, 2016
Age of Consent by Marti Leimbach is an unflinchingly honest novel about a woman who was sexually abused when she was a teenager who finally tries to get justice thirty years later. The subject matter is dark and disturbing yet the rambling, disjointed narrative does not do the topic justice.
In the late 70s, Bobbie became the victim of a sexual predator whom her mom later married. In 2008, Bobbie brings charges against him for the long ago crime. What should be a compelling court case in the present becomes muddled by extraneous details and a meandering storyline that flashes back and forth between past and present. The present day narrative is concise yet contains a few troubling coincidences that diminish the impact of the court case. There is evidence that could corroborate key facts in the case, yet somehow the prosecutor fails to see it. The courtroom scenes fall flat and the lack of clear resolution is a bit of a disappointment when taking into consideration the fact that a key witness has an epiphany that could turn the entire case around.
The flashbacks contain horrifying details of fifteen year old Bobbie's abuse at the hands of twenty-eight year old disc jockey Craig Kirtz yet these details are often lost in tedious passages that do little to explain why Bobbie was drawn to a man with absolutely no charm or redeeming qualities. Bobbie's scenes with Craig are harrowing and her fear and disgust are palpable. The fact she kept the relationship a secret from her mother is easy to understand since teenagers often remain silent in these types of situations. Bobbie's shame later in life is realistic as is her underlying belief she is somehow responsible for what happened to her as a teenager. Bobbie's explanation for the series of event that led up to her involvement with Craig occurs so late in the story that it almost feels like an afterthought.
However, what is most perplexing is why Bobbie's mother, June, was so thoroughly enthralled with Craig in the first place. Yes, his job as a disc jockey made him a "celebrity" of sorts, but his behavior is so appalling that is impossible to understand what she found so appealing about him. And the fact that June was able to overlook and explain away certain details that should have been major red flags is mindboggling.
Age of Consent by Marti Leimbach does manage to end on positive note but overall, the novel is a bit of a disappointing read. While some parts of the story are unsatisfying, it is a gritty and realistic portrayal of how sexual predators groom their victims and coerce them into keeping silent about the inappropriate relationship.
In the late 70s, Bobbie became the victim of a sexual predator whom her mom later married. In 2008, Bobbie brings charges against him for the long ago crime. What should be a compelling court case in the present becomes muddled by extraneous details and a meandering storyline that flashes back and forth between past and present. The present day narrative is concise yet contains a few troubling coincidences that diminish the impact of the court case. There is evidence that could corroborate key facts in the case, yet somehow the prosecutor fails to see it. The courtroom scenes fall flat and the lack of clear resolution is a bit of a disappointment when taking into consideration the fact that a key witness has an epiphany that could turn the entire case around.
The flashbacks contain horrifying details of fifteen year old Bobbie's abuse at the hands of twenty-eight year old disc jockey Craig Kirtz yet these details are often lost in tedious passages that do little to explain why Bobbie was drawn to a man with absolutely no charm or redeeming qualities. Bobbie's scenes with Craig are harrowing and her fear and disgust are palpable. The fact she kept the relationship a secret from her mother is easy to understand since teenagers often remain silent in these types of situations. Bobbie's shame later in life is realistic as is her underlying belief she is somehow responsible for what happened to her as a teenager. Bobbie's explanation for the series of event that led up to her involvement with Craig occurs so late in the story that it almost feels like an afterthought.
However, what is most perplexing is why Bobbie's mother, June, was so thoroughly enthralled with Craig in the first place. Yes, his job as a disc jockey made him a "celebrity" of sorts, but his behavior is so appalling that is impossible to understand what she found so appealing about him. And the fact that June was able to overlook and explain away certain details that should have been major red flags is mindboggling.
Age of Consent by Marti Leimbach does manage to end on positive note but overall, the novel is a bit of a disappointing read. While some parts of the story are unsatisfying, it is a gritty and realistic portrayal of how sexual predators groom their victims and coerce them into keeping silent about the inappropriate relationship.
July 7, 2016
This was a very creepy book. More one of the characters than the actual story. The story line topic was a disgusting crime. I'm pretty sure it's not one of those you can't put down. It was a creative and imaginative story with a very manipulative character. It's scary that there are those kind of people out there. And then the mother, crazy.
I will have to say though and I'm trying to say this so there is no spoiler. But, if Bobbie had just told them what was sticking out of his eye, that would have been proof. Apparently, that was not the ending the author was going for. Most certainly, too obvious.
Anyway, I enjoyed reading this book and while I wasn't crazy about part of the ending, I was glad about another part of the ending. Now, after reading this paragraph, makes you want to jump up and go get it, right? HA!
Thanks Doubleday Books and Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
I will have to say though and I'm trying to say this so there is no spoiler. But, if Bobbie had just told them what was sticking out of his eye, that would have been proof. Apparently, that was not the ending the author was going for. Most certainly, too obvious.
Anyway, I enjoyed reading this book and while I wasn't crazy about part of the ending, I was glad about another part of the ending. Now, after reading this paragraph, makes you want to jump up and go get it, right? HA!
Thanks Doubleday Books and Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
July 21, 2016
I've not long finished a proof copy of this given to me by HarperCollins. As I was reading I kept thinking, 'hmmm, I'll finish reading it but I'm not really enjoying it'.
Actually, as I sit here thinking about it I've realised it's not really a book you're meant to "enjoy". It's a book that is meant to open your eyes and your mind, a book which is meant to make you think about certain things in a different way, in a way you haven't seen them before.
This is a book about child abuse and molestation. It's a book about power and control told from the point of view of the victim, a 13 year old girl in the 1970's. It has been written brilliantly and Bobbie, the young girl, will stay with me for a long long time!!
Actually, as I sit here thinking about it I've realised it's not really a book you're meant to "enjoy". It's a book that is meant to open your eyes and your mind, a book which is meant to make you think about certain things in a different way, in a way you haven't seen them before.
This is a book about child abuse and molestation. It's a book about power and control told from the point of view of the victim, a 13 year old girl in the 1970's. It has been written brilliantly and Bobbie, the young girl, will stay with me for a long long time!!
June 10, 2016
*I won this book for free in a Goodreads Giveaway in exchange for an honest opinion *
This book was very well written. There was constant tension. No sugarcoating what soever. If you like the show Law and Order: SVU, you would probably like this book. The story is told in third person, usually Barbara's viewpoint. Occasionally June's as well. Once or twice in Craig's. The book is very bittersweet, so if you want a happy ending this might not be for you. All in all, I recommend it.
This book was very well written. There was constant tension. No sugarcoating what soever. If you like the show Law and Order: SVU, you would probably like this book. The story is told in third person, usually Barbara's viewpoint. Occasionally June's as well. Once or twice in Craig's. The book is very bittersweet, so if you want a happy ending this might not be for you. All in all, I recommend it.
December 19, 2017
Unsurprisingly this is not pleasant reading, not so much because of the descriptions of sexual abuse (there aren't too many of those, thankfully), but because of the persistent, grinding psychological abuse. I found it infuriating that the main character Bobbie seemed unable to extricate herself from the grip of the manipulative, ruthless older man who was abusing her since age 13. Reading about how she felt trapped, as though he was directing her from inside her head, even when he was not around, was excruciating. I was close to throwing the book and not finishing it because of this. I kept thinking, just get out of there, don't go with him you stupid cow. I couldn't (and still can't) understand how this way of thinking is possible. I guess this is what "grooming" does to victims, and I am fortunate enough not to have been "groomed", so I can't possibly know. [In my personal case when a man tried to rape me I stabbed him in the ribs several times before running away. I consider myself lucky.]
The book doesn't provide an explanation as to why Bobbie remained under his spell for so long - only a visceral account of how she felt, and the very act of reading this account is painful. This makes me think that the author must be working from a well of personal, or very close second-hand experience, and that this book is a way of unburdening herself by speaking out, among other reasons.
In terms of the writing, I did not enjoy it. The book reads like a film script, too bogged down in details - some of which I skipped because I wanted to know what actually happens. I wasn't too keen on the use of present simple tense for present-day events (e.g. "she goes to the wardrobe and takes out a shirt"; "she sees the bald scalp reflecting the ceiling lamps"), and I thought the jumping between past and present didn't do anything to enhance the story or help the reader understand anything.
Regarding the ending, I couldn't help feeling a bit let down, but maybe it can be seen as semi-open to reader interpretation so I can't complain too much.
And here is a little spoiler coming, so don't read below if you don't want spoilers.
I think the title, "Age of Consent" is a reference to the sexual abuse experienced by Bobbie's mother, which started with the scene in the hospital when he asked her to take off her top. She was fully aware of what was happening, didn't want to do it, but didn't say no and did what he was asking of her. In other words, there is no such thing as "Age of Consent": you can be an adult and still be exploited; it's not only children who can be victims.
The book doesn't provide an explanation as to why Bobbie remained under his spell for so long - only a visceral account of how she felt, and the very act of reading this account is painful. This makes me think that the author must be working from a well of personal, or very close second-hand experience, and that this book is a way of unburdening herself by speaking out, among other reasons.
In terms of the writing, I did not enjoy it. The book reads like a film script, too bogged down in details - some of which I skipped because I wanted to know what actually happens. I wasn't too keen on the use of present simple tense for present-day events (e.g. "she goes to the wardrobe and takes out a shirt"; "she sees the bald scalp reflecting the ceiling lamps"), and I thought the jumping between past and present didn't do anything to enhance the story or help the reader understand anything.
Regarding the ending, I couldn't help feeling a bit let down, but maybe it can be seen as semi-open to reader interpretation so I can't complain too much.
And here is a little spoiler coming, so don't read below if you don't want spoilers.
I think the title, "Age of Consent" is a reference to the sexual abuse experienced by Bobbie's mother, which started with the scene in the hospital when he asked her to take off her top. She was fully aware of what was happening, didn't want to do it, but didn't say no and did what he was asking of her. In other words, there is no such thing as "Age of Consent": you can be an adult and still be exploited; it's not only children who can be victims.
March 12, 2024
Enjoyable but also made me rage a lot
August 4, 2016
When I first received an email regarding this book I was instantly intrigued. It was a little different than my normal reads these days so I was willing to give it a try. Age of Consent was a quick read for me, I was completely invested in the story and finding out what was going to happen.
We jump from the past to the present and the stories weave themselves together. Bobbie, a young girl in a dangerous “relationship” comes back to confront her past 30 years later. Martin Leimbach really gave us a feel for each character and what they were thinking and how they each perceived a situation.
Craig was a manipulative jerk, I couldn’t stand him from the beginning.
“I’m supposed to let him just walk away like her always does. Because that’s what Craig is like, you know. He glides through life and lets everyone else worry about his shit!”
June was a delusional middle aged woman who couldn’t see past the end of her own nose. She was always making excuses for Craig that spanned the thirty years of this story.
And then we have Bobbie, I LOVED her character. Her emotions came through and you could feel everything that she did. The hurt, the shame, the anger. But she was as strong as she could be.
“There had been no moment of regret, no goodbye, spoken or unspoken.”
As I previously stated I was invested in this story, sadly at the end it started to move a little too fast and then we are left with a conclusion but missing many answers. It’s hard to explain. I would love to have had more of a glimpse of Bobbie’s time away and what she went through to become the amazing woman she is now.
“A secret is something you ought to tell, that you owe it to someone to tell. And you don’t owe anyone.”
We jump from the past to the present and the stories weave themselves together. Bobbie, a young girl in a dangerous “relationship” comes back to confront her past 30 years later. Martin Leimbach really gave us a feel for each character and what they were thinking and how they each perceived a situation.
Craig was a manipulative jerk, I couldn’t stand him from the beginning.
“I’m supposed to let him just walk away like her always does. Because that’s what Craig is like, you know. He glides through life and lets everyone else worry about his shit!”
June was a delusional middle aged woman who couldn’t see past the end of her own nose. She was always making excuses for Craig that spanned the thirty years of this story.
And then we have Bobbie, I LOVED her character. Her emotions came through and you could feel everything that she did. The hurt, the shame, the anger. But she was as strong as she could be.
“There had been no moment of regret, no goodbye, spoken or unspoken.”
As I previously stated I was invested in this story, sadly at the end it started to move a little too fast and then we are left with a conclusion but missing many answers. It’s hard to explain. I would love to have had more of a glimpse of Bobbie’s time away and what she went through to become the amazing woman she is now.
“A secret is something you ought to tell, that you owe it to someone to tell. And you don’t owe anyone.”
July 4, 2016
I really enjoyed this book...hated a couple of the characters, but liked the book. I felt so badly for Bobbie, the victim of a child predator, and it was interesting to see how young girls get involved and can't get away from the men who control and abuse them. In this story I grew to despise the mother and of course Craig; but that was the good writing that made the characters so abhorrent and the story so good. I think this would make a great book club book with lots to discuss. Highly recommend!
Thanks to Edelweiss and Nan Talese for the opportunity to read an advance digital copy.
Thanks to Edelweiss and Nan Talese for the opportunity to read an advance digital copy.
May 16, 2016
although this book is a little troublesome to read due to subject matter, i found it to be a true to life story that may hit a little too close to home for some. however, it was a engrossing read and i had a hard time putting it down. good character development and consistent storytime line and stayed true to the accuracy of the different time periods.
July 14, 2016
Thrilling and spellbinding. Bobbie, abused 30 years ago, aged 13, returns to testify against her abuser, taking the reader through every possible emotion. Not my normal read, but this is beautifully written and I couldn't put it down.
August 21, 2016
A big giant 5 stars! Review to follow
December 28, 2021
TRIGGER WARNING: statutory Rape. Assault. Underage Sex. Mental and physical abuse. Child endangerment.
I also basically tell the story in my review. If you do NOT want to know what happened, stop reading this!!!
I was just so furious with the main character mother. However, I did like the book, very much so. It was just the most infuriating thing I have read in a long time!
As much as I was really into this book, I was not in the right headspace to read it. I say that because there are plenty of trigger warning and it was really hard to read, and will be some spoilers in this review.
This is a story about a 15 year old who is being prayed upon by an adult who is a DJ for the local radio station. His name is Craig and he is a predator and emotionally and physically abusive to Barbara. Her mother June is absolutely clueless. Actually, Noone knows about Craig and Barbara. Then one night after Craig is abusing Barbara at a hotel (and almost beats the owner to death) Craig crashes the car with Barbara in it.. Craig is badly hurt and looses an eye is is near death. Barbara somehow,, barely makes it but walks home 7 miles barefoot while Craig is passed out.. anything to get away from him. I will add she has tried to get away from him before, but he literally shows up at her school and her house and berates and threatened her like,, all the time. Craig worms his way into Barbaras mothers life.. He starts a relationship with June and Barbara is terrified and sick over it. Barbara decided if her mom picks Craig over her was, she will run away
And so she does. Fast forward to now Barbara is 30 years old. Her mother is married to Craig. A 15 year old just accused Craig of rape and she lost trial. June does not believe her husband has done anything wrong. However Barbara has not talked to June in over 15years and still has no.idea about her daughter and Craig. Now Barbara is back because she Is going on trial for what Craig did to her all those years ago. Her mother does not believe her at all!!!. This is why I was not in the head space for this book. All these accusations, and June thinks every one is lien on Craig because he is a "celebrity ". It was actually sickening how June treats her daughter. Even goes o. Trail to say her daughter is lien. Barbara is on the stand telling how she WAS in that car accident with Craig that almost killed her. They crashed because Craig was hiring Barbara while driving. On the stand June finally remembered Craig waking up from the crash and the first thing he says was WHERE IS BARBARA. IS BARBARA OK. June now remembered and cries out because she's realizing her daughter has been trying to tell her SHE WAS BEING ABUSED IN EVERY WAY POSSIBLE AS A LITERAL CHILD and what a horrible mother she has been
Yeah... I was seeing red reading this. I have to be in a better state of mind to read something so terrible. I was just so angry with June and Craig. It was so bad the way they treated this child. I will say however, the ending is great. And this really was a good heartfelt book. Just pretty infuriating.
I also basically tell the story in my review. If you do NOT want to know what happened, stop reading this!!!
I was just so furious with the main character mother. However, I did like the book, very much so. It was just the most infuriating thing I have read in a long time!
As much as I was really into this book, I was not in the right headspace to read it. I say that because there are plenty of trigger warning and it was really hard to read, and will be some spoilers in this review.
This is a story about a 15 year old who is being prayed upon by an adult who is a DJ for the local radio station. His name is Craig and he is a predator and emotionally and physically abusive to Barbara. Her mother June is absolutely clueless. Actually, Noone knows about Craig and Barbara. Then one night after Craig is abusing Barbara at a hotel (and almost beats the owner to death) Craig crashes the car with Barbara in it.. Craig is badly hurt and looses an eye is is near death. Barbara somehow,, barely makes it but walks home 7 miles barefoot while Craig is passed out.. anything to get away from him. I will add she has tried to get away from him before, but he literally shows up at her school and her house and berates and threatened her like,, all the time. Craig worms his way into Barbaras mothers life.. He starts a relationship with June and Barbara is terrified and sick over it. Barbara decided if her mom picks Craig over her was, she will run away
And so she does. Fast forward to now Barbara is 30 years old. Her mother is married to Craig. A 15 year old just accused Craig of rape and she lost trial. June does not believe her husband has done anything wrong. However Barbara has not talked to June in over 15years and still has no.idea about her daughter and Craig. Now Barbara is back because she Is going on trial for what Craig did to her all those years ago. Her mother does not believe her at all!!!. This is why I was not in the head space for this book. All these accusations, and June thinks every one is lien on Craig because he is a "celebrity ". It was actually sickening how June treats her daughter. Even goes o. Trail to say her daughter is lien. Barbara is on the stand telling how she WAS in that car accident with Craig that almost killed her. They crashed because Craig was hiring Barbara while driving. On the stand June finally remembered Craig waking up from the crash and the first thing he says was WHERE IS BARBARA. IS BARBARA OK. June now remembered and cries out because she's realizing her daughter has been trying to tell her SHE WAS BEING ABUSED IN EVERY WAY POSSIBLE AS A LITERAL CHILD and what a horrible mother she has been
Yeah... I was seeing red reading this. I have to be in a better state of mind to read something so terrible. I was just so angry with June and Craig. It was so bad the way they treated this child. I will say however, the ending is great. And this really was a good heartfelt book. Just pretty infuriating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2021
This was not the book that I thought it was going to be. There was something about the writing style that made the book such a chore to get through. The plot was also very slow paced and repetitive. I was mainly interested in the trial and present timeline but instead there were so many chapters from the past that I had to read through (and ended up skimming not too far into the book).
Craig was such a vile character and having to read his manipulative and predatory thoughts was too much to stomach at times. June was a character that had me alternating between fury and hatred. The fact that she was so desperately clinging to a man that treated her like absolute crap was so frustrating to read.
The ending took an unexpected turn and so many things were left unresolved. Abrupt and open endings are not something I do well with. The only reason I stuck it out to the end was because I wanted to know how everything would turn out. That turned out to be a waste of time and I wished I'd just DNF'd it earlier when I wanted to.
Craig was such a vile character and having to read his manipulative and predatory thoughts was too much to stomach at times. June was a character that had me alternating between fury and hatred. The fact that she was so desperately clinging to a man that treated her like absolute crap was so frustrating to read.
The ending took an unexpected turn and so many things were left unresolved. Abrupt and open endings are not something I do well with. The only reason I stuck it out to the end was because I wanted to know how everything would turn out. That turned out to be a waste of time and I wished I'd just DNF'd it earlier when I wanted to.
June 6, 2017
I am so happy that I had the privilege of reading this book. Although, it is regarding a serious topic (sexual abuse of a minor) and the subject matter was dark at times, it still felt like an easy read for me. The characters were all so dynamic and colorful, it was so interesting to get to know them as they were in the past (30 years ago) and who they become. Marti Leimbach knows how to tell a story, each chapter flows directly into the next, which can be hard to do considering the 30 year time difference, different third party point of views and difficult subject matter. Marti Leimbach struck such a delicate balance here that it was as almost as if this book comes to life. You can't help but emphasize and root for the heroine, Bobbie as she continually faces off with the abuser but never considers herself a victim. Powerful book that will stick with you for a while and really make you think. I'm excited to pick up a few more books by Marti, as she is one of my new favorite authors.
April 7, 2018
This was one of the best books I’ve read in ages. Done in a week. It was a well-constructed and nuanced story, alternating between the events that happened to a teenaged girl and the modern day court case in which she is trying to find justice. The characters are well-drawn and there is no cliche in them. The imagery and prose used to convey the main character’s thoughts and feelings is convincing. I did find myself getting frustrated at times with her passivity, and found myself urging her to bloody do something, but that I suspect was entirely intentional: the sense of impotence of a girl caught in a situation from which she sees no escape. The economy of the scenes involved would also make this a great play.
July 8, 2018
I think this was a very well written book and I "enjoyed" it. It's hard to say you like a book that has so many hard truths. I believe the author understands abusive relationships and did a very good job with the characters.
Spoilers:
This book keeps you turning the pages.
Spoilers:
This book keeps you turning the pages.
March 24, 2019
Another tough read but another one that was well worth it. I thought Bobbie was a great narrator and was really drawn into her story. I loved her relationship with Dan. I also thought the ambiguity in June's story and her "romance" with Craig was good.
I was slightly disappointed because I expected more focus on the court case but the main focus is on the interpersonal relationships between the characters.
I was slightly disappointed because I expected more focus on the court case but the main focus is on the interpersonal relationships between the characters.
March 8, 2024
Sexual predator, courtroom drama, and thriller all rolled into one. Thirty years after the event, a woman who was abused as a child reads of a case against her molester. breaking down on a technicality .Realising he had molested other girls, she decides to tell the authorities of her own abuse. Deals also with the relationship of the disbelieving mother (who is married to the abuser) and her daughter
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2025
Holy shit. The detail. Not for the assaults, but the detail in perspective and the grooming. The mother's chapters broke me. The story, in general, was a lot. It was heartbreaking. And so real. It's pretty much always someone you know. You see and hear about it all the time when it comes to children. Tragic and heartbreaking. The ending wasn't satisfying, though. Not in the slightest. Am curious about the author's other works, now.
April 25, 2018
This book touched me greatly. As a survivor of sexual abuse, it rang true on every level and explains more clearly than I ever could how I felt while I was going through it and how I feel about my abuser and what sex means for me today. I could completely understand Bobbie and her actions. An uncomfortable read but well worth it if you know anyone who has experienced this kind of abuse.
March 16, 2019
First word that comes to mind for this book is disgusting. Not really for the book itself, but for the fact that there are really people out there like Craig and June.
Quotes:
It is more important that innocence be protected than it is that guilt be punished.
You always hold on to the damaging things people do
Death is no ending for anyone but the dying
Quotes:
It is more important that innocence be protected than it is that guilt be punished.
You always hold on to the damaging things people do
Death is no ending for anyone but the dying
July 27, 2018
I genuinely thought this would be more interesting. It’s a good story but I felt like it could’ve been written differently. I found myself going back over what I read a lot because I didn’t catch things the first time.
October 11, 2018
The DJ is another character to add to the list of evil people that are believable, I did have a laugh at some scenes, the make up counter, Mcdonalds you pay, motel fight and others, does that make me bad.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews