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Mean Little People
A reckless journey from boyhood to Mafia.
(The HOME STREET HOME SERIES is a collection of standalone novels.)
Tony Bruno is like any other seven-year-old boy . . . he wants to have fun and be accepted by his peers. But the boys in Tony’s school bully him unmercifully, until one day, they almost kill him.
His father is embarrassed by Tony’s inability to defend himself and tries to beat and berate the mean into his son. Tony's only moments of peace were found in the arms of his mother, but she was no match for her husband and could not protect her son.
One day Tony’s tormentors push him too far. Possessed by blind rage Tony fights back with a vengeance, tipping the balance of power, and taking his rightful place among his peers.
Years later Tony notices the new kid, Salvatore being tormented by the class bully. Tony didn’t know that Salvatore’s father was a powerful man, and instinctively rushes into the fight and protects Salvatore. This act of kindness forges a bond creating a lifetime friendship of trust and loyalty.
One night Salvatore commits a horrific crime, and Tony being a devoted friend, pays the consequences. While in juvenile detention Tony is assaulted and the acts of cruelty harden him. Back on the outside with no place to go, Tony does what’s needed to survive.
After leaving his street gang, Tony becomes a made man inside the Philadelphia mob family where he has a sense of belonging. With resolute allegiance and conviction to the mafia, Tony cherishes being part of a real family, one much stronger than those with a bloodline.
This is a story about a boy born into poverty and destined to become a mobster. Tony Bruno loves as hard as he hates and protects as quickly as he kills.
Some see Tony as a criminal and others see him as a hero . . . but you must decide for yourself if Tony falls on the side of good or evil.
**WARNING** 18+ Readers Only. Graphic content and subject matter.
NOTE: Mean Little People was previously titled Born Mobster. The content remains the same.
(The HOME STREET HOME SERIES is a collection of standalone novels.)
Tony Bruno is like any other seven-year-old boy . . . he wants to have fun and be accepted by his peers. But the boys in Tony’s school bully him unmercifully, until one day, they almost kill him.
His father is embarrassed by Tony’s inability to defend himself and tries to beat and berate the mean into his son. Tony's only moments of peace were found in the arms of his mother, but she was no match for her husband and could not protect her son.
One day Tony’s tormentors push him too far. Possessed by blind rage Tony fights back with a vengeance, tipping the balance of power, and taking his rightful place among his peers.
Years later Tony notices the new kid, Salvatore being tormented by the class bully. Tony didn’t know that Salvatore’s father was a powerful man, and instinctively rushes into the fight and protects Salvatore. This act of kindness forges a bond creating a lifetime friendship of trust and loyalty.
One night Salvatore commits a horrific crime, and Tony being a devoted friend, pays the consequences. While in juvenile detention Tony is assaulted and the acts of cruelty harden him. Back on the outside with no place to go, Tony does what’s needed to survive.
After leaving his street gang, Tony becomes a made man inside the Philadelphia mob family where he has a sense of belonging. With resolute allegiance and conviction to the mafia, Tony cherishes being part of a real family, one much stronger than those with a bloodline.
This is a story about a boy born into poverty and destined to become a mobster. Tony Bruno loves as hard as he hates and protects as quickly as he kills.
Some see Tony as a criminal and others see him as a hero . . . but you must decide for yourself if Tony falls on the side of good or evil.
**WARNING** 18+ Readers Only. Graphic content and subject matter.
NOTE: Mean Little People was previously titled Born Mobster. The content remains the same.
504 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2016
2119 people are currently reading
6658 people want to read
About the author
Paige Dearth
14 books1,902 followersWebsite: https://paigedearth.com/
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3e86gp7
Facebook: https://bit.ly/2JS5M1D
Twitter: https://bit.ly/2v1sWgK
#1 Amazon bestselling author Paige Dearth is a survivor of child abuse. Through grit and pure determination she set out to provide a look inside the pain and suffering caused by childhood trauma through her novels.
Paige writes real-life horror and refers to her work as Fiction With Meaning. She hopes that her fictional stories will create awareness for prevention and intervention. Paige writes stories about young children who need to overcome adversity and then take you on their life’s journey. You will shed tears of joy, grief, rage, and horror. She wants her readers to be thinking about the story long after they have turned the last page.
Paige believes that society should not look the other way because a subject seems too difficult to handle and to remember that people live through these real-life horrors.
Paige lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with her husband Mike, and dog, Benny. Her debut novel, Believe Like A Child, was the catalyst for her writing platform. The beginning of Believe Like A Child is based on events from Paige’s childhood. Paige’s novels present a fine balance between what lives on in her imagination and the evil that lurks in the real world.
Paige’s favorite motto is:
“Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.”
~Benjamin Franklin
PAIGE'S STANDALONE NOVELS IN ORDER OF PUBLICATION:
Believe Like A Child
When Smiles Fade
One Among Us
Mean Little People
Never Be Alone
My Final Breath
RAINEY PAXTON SERIES:
A Little Pinprick (Book One)
A Little High (Book Two)
Girls Missing (Book Three)
Girls Found (Book Four)
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3e86gp7
Facebook: https://bit.ly/2JS5M1D
Twitter: https://bit.ly/2v1sWgK
#1 Amazon bestselling author Paige Dearth is a survivor of child abuse. Through grit and pure determination she set out to provide a look inside the pain and suffering caused by childhood trauma through her novels.
Paige writes real-life horror and refers to her work as Fiction With Meaning. She hopes that her fictional stories will create awareness for prevention and intervention. Paige writes stories about young children who need to overcome adversity and then take you on their life’s journey. You will shed tears of joy, grief, rage, and horror. She wants her readers to be thinking about the story long after they have turned the last page.
Paige believes that society should not look the other way because a subject seems too difficult to handle and to remember that people live through these real-life horrors.
Paige lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with her husband Mike, and dog, Benny. Her debut novel, Believe Like A Child, was the catalyst for her writing platform. The beginning of Believe Like A Child is based on events from Paige’s childhood. Paige’s novels present a fine balance between what lives on in her imagination and the evil that lurks in the real world.
Paige’s favorite motto is:
“Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.”
~Benjamin Franklin
PAIGE'S STANDALONE NOVELS IN ORDER OF PUBLICATION:
Believe Like A Child
When Smiles Fade
One Among Us
Mean Little People
Never Be Alone
My Final Breath
RAINEY PAXTON SERIES:
A Little Pinprick (Book One)
A Little High (Book Two)
Girls Missing (Book Three)
Girls Found (Book Four)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 335 reviews
June 15, 2017
3.5 Stars. Whew! Brutal read and difficult to rate!
First and foremost, be forewarned....MEAN LITTLE PEOPLE is a tough, dark read....a violent and often gruesome read....filled with despicable acts of physical and verbal abuse, mutilations and tortuous cruelty....from beginning to end.
Now, if you still want to proceed, meet five year old Tony Bruno....he is a good kid who is continually brutalized and bullied at school....and when he goes home....he receives....not sympathy and comfort, but more physical abuse from his worthless father.
As Tony becomes a young teen, his troubled life continues with a trip to a juvenile detention center that breaks his spirit and sets the tumultuous course for the rest of his life.
MEAN LITTLE PEOPLE is a coming-of-age story set in a painful, lonely and often hopeless environment where Tony lives in fear and isolation and carries the weight of the world on his shoulders.
For me, at times, the dialogue and language slang seemed a bit off and brutality overdone, hence the 3 Stars, but take note, average Goodread's ratings are 4+, and for those who can take it, the story continues with ONE AMONG US.
......Paige Dearth was a victim of child abuse herself and began writing stories "grounded in truth" to cope and provide awareness to others.
Thank you NetGalley and AuthorBuzz for the complimentary ebook in exchange for an honest review.
May 28, 2017
I wanted to run, screaming in disbelief from this story and yet, I had to read every single word, not as a voyeur to the events portrayed, but as a human being aghast that any living creature should be a victim of Tony’s life. Paige Dearth knows abuse and this is her vehicle to awaken the world to the brutality of what can happen beyond our little corner of the world. MEAN LITTLE PEOPLE is by far, one of the most difficult to read books I have ever reviewed.
Tony is the boy we pretend not to see. He is the young innocent who became fodder for abuse from every corner and that abuse created the young man who did what he must to survive, to be accepted and even to stand for others like him when he could. Was he a hero, a victim, a product of his environment? Yes. Did he crave love and acceptance, feel the sting of rejection and the pain of a world bent on either ignoring his plight or using him as a tool for its own devices? Yes. Is this an indictment of a world that is failing itself? Yes.
Although fictitious, this tale is not unrealistic or a flight of fancy. This is raw, heinous and beyond shocking to our senses. Abuse is alive and functioning in a world who must “bring awareness” to a problem that should never exist. Where does the fault lay? Certainly not in the laps of the abused, but in the laps of a society that covets the phrase, "They need to do something about this." Did this this hit harder than a wrecking ball? Was it far more effective than a hallway poster? Oh Hell yes.
This is a tale of abuse, betrayal, and the desperate quest for redemption and acceptance in a world that let one more child down. Read it, try to stomach the events and tell me you are not affected.
I received this copy from Fiction with Meaning in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Fiction with Meaning LLC (April 9, 2017)
Publication Date: April 9, 2017
Genre: Child Abuse | Dysfunctional Family | Bullying
Print Length: 466 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Tony is the boy we pretend not to see. He is the young innocent who became fodder for abuse from every corner and that abuse created the young man who did what he must to survive, to be accepted and even to stand for others like him when he could. Was he a hero, a victim, a product of his environment? Yes. Did he crave love and acceptance, feel the sting of rejection and the pain of a world bent on either ignoring his plight or using him as a tool for its own devices? Yes. Is this an indictment of a world that is failing itself? Yes.
Although fictitious, this tale is not unrealistic or a flight of fancy. This is raw, heinous and beyond shocking to our senses. Abuse is alive and functioning in a world who must “bring awareness” to a problem that should never exist. Where does the fault lay? Certainly not in the laps of the abused, but in the laps of a society that covets the phrase, "They need to do something about this." Did this this hit harder than a wrecking ball? Was it far more effective than a hallway poster? Oh Hell yes.
This is a tale of abuse, betrayal, and the desperate quest for redemption and acceptance in a world that let one more child down. Read it, try to stomach the events and tell me you are not affected.
I received this copy from Fiction with Meaning in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Fiction with Meaning LLC (April 9, 2017)
Publication Date: April 9, 2017
Genre: Child Abuse | Dysfunctional Family | Bullying
Print Length: 466 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
May 20, 2017
Mean Little People takes us through the life of a young promising boy that has to live in a harsh world, surrounded by terrible people. Being unfamiliar with the author I was shocked by the crudeness in which violence was depicted, there were so many moments when I was sure that there’s no way she would go as far as actually showing the deed, but Paige Dearth doesn’t shy away from showing the countless cruelties that Tony has to suffer. This book is not for the faint of heart as it goes to really dark places. It is addicting, but I had to read it at a moderate pace. Because of the nature of the content, it doesn’t really favor binge-reading, unless you’re feeling too cheery and want to change that. The more you read, the more you can feel the darkness taking root in your mind just as it does in Tony’s.
As the book progresses, Tony starts to battle the darkness that the world forces on him, trying to find a balance between what keeps him human and what is slowly turning him into the monster that he has sworn never to become. Tony as a characters is both tragic and scary, it hurts seeing him transition from a lovable young boy into a hateful adult.
I feel that the fact that Tony goes through so many terrible things hurt the quality of this book. There were moments, mostly in the first part of the book, when it all felt like a game of “how can we make Tony suffer more?” It wasn’t the violence itself at fault, but the way in which the universe seemed to plot against Tony took me a bit out of the story and made me self-conscious about the fact that I was reading a book. To add to that, some of the character’s decisions (especially his mother’s) didn’t feel believable to me.
Despite that, I thoroughly enjoyed Mean Little People, it reminded me of Karin Slaughter’s Pretty Girls which is a favorite of mine. I like authors that are not afraid to tackle subjects in a way that might turn some people off because of the roughness and the straightforward rawness that they infuse in their prose. Paige Dearth is an author that I’ll keep my eyes on.
I received a copy of this book courtesy of Fiction With Meaning, LLC and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
As the book progresses, Tony starts to battle the darkness that the world forces on him, trying to find a balance between what keeps him human and what is slowly turning him into the monster that he has sworn never to become. Tony as a characters is both tragic and scary, it hurts seeing him transition from a lovable young boy into a hateful adult.
I feel that the fact that Tony goes through so many terrible things hurt the quality of this book. There were moments, mostly in the first part of the book, when it all felt like a game of “how can we make Tony suffer more?” It wasn’t the violence itself at fault, but the way in which the universe seemed to plot against Tony took me a bit out of the story and made me self-conscious about the fact that I was reading a book. To add to that, some of the character’s decisions (especially his mother’s) didn’t feel believable to me.
Despite that, I thoroughly enjoyed Mean Little People, it reminded me of Karin Slaughter’s Pretty Girls which is a favorite of mine. I like authors that are not afraid to tackle subjects in a way that might turn some people off because of the roughness and the straightforward rawness that they infuse in their prose. Paige Dearth is an author that I’ll keep my eyes on.
I received a copy of this book courtesy of Fiction With Meaning, LLC and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 7, 2017
This is the first ebook I got from NetGalley to review and it is so worth it! I finished it in 3 days! Definitely one of my new favorites.
***This book started out with all types of feels. Sympathy, empathy, hopelessness, vulnerability, fear, rage, overwhelming sadness, this is a very emotional book with graphic details***
I genuinely had to put it down after the prologue for a few minutes and collect myself.
Opening with Tony, a kid just wanting to fit in and be a part of something bigger, gets bullied by a group of cruel boys and torment him to near death. This is a story of survival through and through. The prologue was short but still depicted the incident very real, true dark horror. I actually cried and I'm not even on Chapter 1?
Not only does Tony get bullied by kids, but his home life isn't too happy either. His father, an abusive alcohol and his scared but loving mother. Her language and protection of her son are a little comic relief.
Some of the feelings adults get are very heart shattering hearing from a defenseless child. I can't imagine the psychological problems these horrible events would have. His moral fiber giving him the courage to stick up for other bullied kids.
The roller coaster of emotions let's you get a little break as it seems Tony's life is starting to look up a little as he goes on to 7th grade. Mafia! Crime bosses! Teenage bodyguards, murder, prison, torture, isolation, friendship, and hardships. Yeah I said a little break, but now this emotional rollercoaster is at full speed and lost a wheel.
Tony learns through these hardships from his family, friends, criminals, the homeless, junkies, a gang, the mafia, and his first love, what it means to appreciate the little that you have.
***This book started out with all types of feels. Sympathy, empathy, hopelessness, vulnerability, fear, rage, overwhelming sadness, this is a very emotional book with graphic details***
I genuinely had to put it down after the prologue for a few minutes and collect myself.
Opening with Tony, a kid just wanting to fit in and be a part of something bigger, gets bullied by a group of cruel boys and torment him to near death. This is a story of survival through and through. The prologue was short but still depicted the incident very real, true dark horror. I actually cried and I'm not even on Chapter 1?
Not only does Tony get bullied by kids, but his home life isn't too happy either. His father, an abusive alcohol and his scared but loving mother. Her language and protection of her son are a little comic relief.
Some of the feelings adults get are very heart shattering hearing from a defenseless child. I can't imagine the psychological problems these horrible events would have. His moral fiber giving him the courage to stick up for other bullied kids.
The roller coaster of emotions let's you get a little break as it seems Tony's life is starting to look up a little as he goes on to 7th grade. Mafia! Crime bosses! Teenage bodyguards, murder, prison, torture, isolation, friendship, and hardships. Yeah I said a little break, but now this emotional rollercoaster is at full speed and lost a wheel.
Tony learns through these hardships from his family, friends, criminals, the homeless, junkies, a gang, the mafia, and his first love, what it means to appreciate the little that you have.
April 1, 2017
This is a quite dark, action-packed thriller with both bullying and revenge in large, detailed doses. I read a lot of thrillers and horror, so dark subject matter doesn’t particularly bother me. But by the end it felt like too much—there wasn’t much that was redeeming or hopeful in the story. Bad things keep happening to Tony to the point of being unrealistic and just a drag. True, thrillers don’t have to have a “happily ever after”, but Tony’s story got me sympathetically involved with him initially so I wanted better for him.
After a childhood of abuse and bullying, Tony gets involved with the Mafia both to gain respect at long last and to get in a position of power to deal back against those who harmed him. While I could sort of root for the revenge aspect, his life continues to be very brutal and savage.
I’m rating it 4 stars because it definitely kept my interest and the action-movie lover in me enjoyed reading it. But I dinged a star for being left somewhat hollowed out by the experience. I would have liked some more “up beats” to ease the negativity, and overall I’m not sure what the message is. Also, there are apparently more Tony books to come, so the ending is left open. I would have liked more of a wrap up.
I did like this author, Paige Dearth, and I will check out more of her books.
I received an ARC of this book from netgalley in exchange for a fair review.
After a childhood of abuse and bullying, Tony gets involved with the Mafia both to gain respect at long last and to get in a position of power to deal back against those who harmed him. While I could sort of root for the revenge aspect, his life continues to be very brutal and savage.
I’m rating it 4 stars because it definitely kept my interest and the action-movie lover in me enjoyed reading it. But I dinged a star for being left somewhat hollowed out by the experience. I would have liked some more “up beats” to ease the negativity, and overall I’m not sure what the message is. Also, there are apparently more Tony books to come, so the ending is left open. I would have liked more of a wrap up.
I did like this author, Paige Dearth, and I will check out more of her books.
I received an ARC of this book from netgalley in exchange for a fair review.
Read
January 4, 2018DNF at 16%, not because the book was badly done in any way, but because I couldn't stand the subject matter any longer. This was completely my own responsibility and not the result of misleading marketing on the book. The book clearly tells us what happens inside in the summary, it was my own fault I picked it up even though I knew full well this subject isn't for me.
Nevertheless, thank you to NetGalley for giving me a free copy of this book to review.
Nevertheless, thank you to NetGalley for giving me a free copy of this book to review.
June 14, 2020
..Someone once told me that I was coldhearted. They believed it. I didn’t. Kids learn how to cope. Bullied kids find that special superpower inside that pushes them to survive.
Tony has been bullied for as long as he can remember and he hates it. Not only does he gets teased but he is forced to deal with the constant abuse from his Father. While he has a mother that he respects and appreciates, she cannot seem to escape the mistreament that she gets from her deadbead husband. Tony feels tortured and alone, he does not have any friends that would sit by him at lunch or anyone who wants to be associated with a loser like him. Tony's mother assures him that sometimes bad things happpen to good people and he should not let bullies get to him. However,he knows that she is only saying that because she loves him and is biased. When he does finally meet a friend, it does not last long as he gets betrayed.
As Tony grows up over the years, he has learned the art of defending himself but that does not come without reprecusssions. Tony is introduced to the mob life that would get him in more trouble than he would like but that does not stop him from doing whatver it takes to find that inner peace. If violence is not the answer to his deterimental state, how does he get back to being that happy place of being a sympatheitc kid and not a dignified 'loser' with no friends.
This is an amazing novel semi adult novel about gangs, violence and adolescence in the face of adverstiy.
I really loved the characrerization and the storytelling of this book! There were many moments when I wanted to hug Tony because he felt so broken in the beginning. He pretended to be someone he was not only to be accepted by friends. This is sadly how most people in primary school feels, if they think that they are not being accepted, they are willng to do anything to gain the approval of unruly people. I loved how this book went from chidhood to youngadulthood, that was one remarkable hing about the storytelling.
I will recommend this book to anyone, amazing characterization, splendid consistency and amazing ending.
It has been awhile since I read a five star book, kudos to the author for an amzing novel!
Tony has been bullied for as long as he can remember and he hates it. Not only does he gets teased but he is forced to deal with the constant abuse from his Father. While he has a mother that he respects and appreciates, she cannot seem to escape the mistreament that she gets from her deadbead husband. Tony feels tortured and alone, he does not have any friends that would sit by him at lunch or anyone who wants to be associated with a loser like him. Tony's mother assures him that sometimes bad things happpen to good people and he should not let bullies get to him. However,he knows that she is only saying that because she loves him and is biased. When he does finally meet a friend, it does not last long as he gets betrayed.
As Tony grows up over the years, he has learned the art of defending himself but that does not come without reprecusssions. Tony is introduced to the mob life that would get him in more trouble than he would like but that does not stop him from doing whatver it takes to find that inner peace. If violence is not the answer to his deterimental state, how does he get back to being that happy place of being a sympatheitc kid and not a dignified 'loser' with no friends.
This is an amazing novel semi adult novel about gangs, violence and adolescence in the face of adverstiy.
I really loved the characrerization and the storytelling of this book! There were many moments when I wanted to hug Tony because he felt so broken in the beginning. He pretended to be someone he was not only to be accepted by friends. This is sadly how most people in primary school feels, if they think that they are not being accepted, they are willng to do anything to gain the approval of unruly people. I loved how this book went from chidhood to youngadulthood, that was one remarkable hing about the storytelling.
I will recommend this book to anyone, amazing characterization, splendid consistency and amazing ending.
It has been awhile since I read a five star book, kudos to the author for an amzing novel!
October 28, 2024
5 stars audio
1 star story
My first and last book from this author.
1 star story
My first and last book from this author.
June 6, 2020
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
A kid is bullied from the day he is born and becomes a criminal.
I think this is supposed to be a form of realism, but it didn't seem too realistic.
A kid is bullied from the day he is born and becomes a criminal.
I think this is supposed to be a form of realism, but it didn't seem too realistic.
June 24, 2017
I wanted to run away, screaming in terror from this story so many times while reading it. It is the most difficult book to get through as well as review I have ever read. Nothing could have prepared me for this story and the horrors that awaited me within it. I can't even write this review without crying.
Tony was bullied at school as well as at home by his father. At just 13 years old he paid the price for a crime he didn't commit. He went to juvenile detention, where the adults are supposed to protect and help the kids there to do better, but instead that often isn't the case at all. Adults who should know better can be the biggest monsters of all. His father threw him out on the streets at 13 and his life just keeps getting worse from there. Are there some happy moments? Sure, but don't get used to them. When you think it couldn't possibly get worse, it does. When you think it couldn't get more heart-breaking, it will.
This story is horrific...but it's entirely realistic, which just adds to the horror. Real people live with these horrors. Real people go through this crap. It's a world gone wrong. A little love and caring could have gone a long way. It's about a boy abused and neglected at every turn, just trying to survive and in order to just survive he ends up having to do horrible things. This book takes you on his journey, through all the crap life throws at him, through all his feelings and thoughts. It made me feel so much for him, to cry so many ugly tears. And even typing this they keep coming...it's been nearly a day since I finished the story before writing this up, and I can't stop crying or thinking about it. I know this story will stay with me, and I will never look at anyone the same way again. You never know what they've been through to get to where they are today.
I get why this book is written the way it is, to tear your heart to shreds. It contains a very important message on bullying and where it can lead. How it CAN stop, these horrors don't need to happen. But it won't stop unless we look these stories in the eyes and take them in. Stories like this need to be told and listened to, no matter how hard it is. Because of how hard it is. If it's this hard to read it, imagine the kids living it.
Stuff that you might worry about while reading does get challenged and tackled in the book. It tackles so many things. And stuff is obviously ment to cause horror, to not be agreed with. I can see why it was written that way, if it wasn't the impact and meaning might be lost.
Tony gets PTSD from stuff he goes through, anyone that lives the life he did would. His nightmares, the way it affects daily life things, the feelings and shame he has from it all are talked about. As someone with PTSD I related so much. I related to several things in this story actually as well seeing stuff in it that i've seen in real life. I loved the way it handled Tony's PTSD. It talked about how it affected him. Kate, who if you read you will meet in the story, helps him through it. Nothing may ever be perfect but it talks about ways to help those with PTSD in a realistic way.
Themes include everything from bullying, abuse, rape (and when do you ever see a boy getting raped talked about or cared about? In fiction or real life, it's something that needs to be mentioned), love, kindness, sexism, toxic masculinity. To not be so quick to judge others, you never know their life story. The balance between good and evil. How a little kindness and love can mean a lot and even make a world of difference.
There is so much more I want to say but don't know how to say it or don't want to spoil the story. It's something you just have to experience for yourself. Read it when you are in a good headspace and keep the tissues close.
TW: Bullying, Abuse, Neglect, Violence, Rape, Murder, Depression, PTSD, homophobia, fatphobia, fire
Full review (with stats and things) also on my blog Here
Tony was bullied at school as well as at home by his father. At just 13 years old he paid the price for a crime he didn't commit. He went to juvenile detention, where the adults are supposed to protect and help the kids there to do better, but instead that often isn't the case at all. Adults who should know better can be the biggest monsters of all. His father threw him out on the streets at 13 and his life just keeps getting worse from there. Are there some happy moments? Sure, but don't get used to them. When you think it couldn't possibly get worse, it does. When you think it couldn't get more heart-breaking, it will.
This story is horrific...but it's entirely realistic, which just adds to the horror. Real people live with these horrors. Real people go through this crap. It's a world gone wrong. A little love and caring could have gone a long way. It's about a boy abused and neglected at every turn, just trying to survive and in order to just survive he ends up having to do horrible things. This book takes you on his journey, through all the crap life throws at him, through all his feelings and thoughts. It made me feel so much for him, to cry so many ugly tears. And even typing this they keep coming...it's been nearly a day since I finished the story before writing this up, and I can't stop crying or thinking about it. I know this story will stay with me, and I will never look at anyone the same way again. You never know what they've been through to get to where they are today.
I get why this book is written the way it is, to tear your heart to shreds. It contains a very important message on bullying and where it can lead. How it CAN stop, these horrors don't need to happen. But it won't stop unless we look these stories in the eyes and take them in. Stories like this need to be told and listened to, no matter how hard it is. Because of how hard it is. If it's this hard to read it, imagine the kids living it.
Stuff that you might worry about while reading does get challenged and tackled in the book. It tackles so many things. And stuff is obviously ment to cause horror, to not be agreed with. I can see why it was written that way, if it wasn't the impact and meaning might be lost.
Tony gets PTSD from stuff he goes through, anyone that lives the life he did would. His nightmares, the way it affects daily life things, the feelings and shame he has from it all are talked about. As someone with PTSD I related so much. I related to several things in this story actually as well seeing stuff in it that i've seen in real life. I loved the way it handled Tony's PTSD. It talked about how it affected him. Kate, who if you read you will meet in the story, helps him through it. Nothing may ever be perfect but it talks about ways to help those with PTSD in a realistic way.
Themes include everything from bullying, abuse, rape (and when do you ever see a boy getting raped talked about or cared about? In fiction or real life, it's something that needs to be mentioned), love, kindness, sexism, toxic masculinity. To not be so quick to judge others, you never know their life story. The balance between good and evil. How a little kindness and love can mean a lot and even make a world of difference.
There is so much more I want to say but don't know how to say it or don't want to spoil the story. It's something you just have to experience for yourself. Read it when you are in a good headspace and keep the tissues close.
TW: Bullying, Abuse, Neglect, Violence, Rape, Murder, Depression, PTSD, homophobia, fatphobia, fire
Full review (with stats and things) also on my blog Here
April 10, 2020
This book is pretty good. If you keep up with my reads, you know I like my Fiction brutal. Now, this isn't extreme horror brutal, but it does have a couple of scenes that are pretty violent. And I love that. The story itself is WOW. Could actually be someone's real life. From being bullied as child, beaten by their father, kicked out of the house at a young age, raped in juvie, joining a gang, then ultimately becoming a gangster. This is a long story, and covers so much of Tony's life. So much happens. I feel like parts of it were a little too long, but in the end it s worth reading. I recommend for anybody who likes this kind of storyline to read this book. I can see how this is realistic fiction. I think I may be a Paige Dearth fan now
June 3, 2017
I found "Mean Little People" by Paige Dearth to be a bit of a hard read. The writing is good and so is the story line but the things Tony had to go through were difficult to read and I had to keep putting the book down.
Tony has had a hard life from the very beginning. He is bullied by other school children and faces abuse at home. After finally being kicked out from his home at the young age of 13, Tony tries desperately to find a place he can call home but keeps going down the wrong path.
I kept reading because I was interested in Tony's story and I just wanted to hug him and bring him home but the things he went through were hard to absorb. I understand and respect that it was what the author intended and it does make you feel uncomfortable. The horror here is the depth of human depravity. We don't need monsters; they are alive and well in human form. I am interested in hearing more of Tony's story.
I received a copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley for free in exchange for an honest review.
Tony has had a hard life from the very beginning. He is bullied by other school children and faces abuse at home. After finally being kicked out from his home at the young age of 13, Tony tries desperately to find a place he can call home but keeps going down the wrong path.
I kept reading because I was interested in Tony's story and I just wanted to hug him and bring him home but the things he went through were hard to absorb. I understand and respect that it was what the author intended and it does make you feel uncomfortable. The horror here is the depth of human depravity. We don't need monsters; they are alive and well in human form. I am interested in hearing more of Tony's story.
I received a copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley for free in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2018
I won a Kindle edition through a Goodreads giveaway.
This is a dark, heart breaking and gruesome book full of action that kept me turning the pages. Well written. I look forward to reading more from the author.
This is a dark, heart breaking and gruesome book full of action that kept me turning the pages. Well written. I look forward to reading more from the author.
May 24, 2017
This story begins when Tony Bruno is 7 years old and follows him through young adulthood. It is bleak, brutal, and at times shocking. Life for Tony is nothing but pain. He is taunted, beaten and bullied nearly to death by his classmates, belittled and beaten at home by his good for nothing father, friendless and alone in his misery. He is subjected to every abuse imaginable. Physical, emotional, and later sexually assaulted, which was quite difficult to read...I had to put this book down twice and walk away for a bit.
At 13 he is tossed out of his home with nowhere to turn. Tony ends up in a gang and later in the mob. There are few friendly faces amidst all this turmoil. He meets a kindly older woman and her grand daughter who become his surrogate family, and a girl he falls in love with, but his gangster lifestyle attracts danger to those closest to him. This was an emotional read, that at times had me enraged, disgusted, and sometimes in tears.
I received a complimentary copy for review.
At 13 he is tossed out of his home with nowhere to turn. Tony ends up in a gang and later in the mob. There are few friendly faces amidst all this turmoil. He meets a kindly older woman and her grand daughter who become his surrogate family, and a girl he falls in love with, but his gangster lifestyle attracts danger to those closest to him. This was an emotional read, that at times had me enraged, disgusted, and sometimes in tears.
I received a complimentary copy for review.
September 28, 2016
If you think that you are a slow reader, this book will change that!
The pages couldn't fly fast enough. I wanted, okay, needed to know more of what is going on, what is going to happen!! You will probably need to take a few breathers, this story has it's graphic moments. Ms. Dearth goes into vivid detail to ensure that you are placed right amidst the action, feeling all that it is possible to feel, no matter how shocking. I'll definitely be reading more from this Author!!
I received an early release of this book from Netgalley. Opinions in this review are my own.
The pages couldn't fly fast enough. I wanted, okay, needed to know more of what is going on, what is going to happen!! You will probably need to take a few breathers, this story has it's graphic moments. Ms. Dearth goes into vivid detail to ensure that you are placed right amidst the action, feeling all that it is possible to feel, no matter how shocking. I'll definitely be reading more from this Author!!
I received an early release of this book from Netgalley. Opinions in this review are my own.
July 14, 2024
Bullied to mafia
Bullies are creeps. Tony is constantly bullied at school and at home. When he finally has enough, him and his bully, Vincent, because best friends. Along the way they meet Salvatore and he just happens to be the son of mafia underboss of Philly. Tony experiences life in such turmoil but pulled himself out and made his life how we wanted. The end result was not what I expected but that's what made this book so amazing. I will definitely be reading more by Paige Dearth
Bullies are creeps. Tony is constantly bullied at school and at home. When he finally has enough, him and his bully, Vincent, because best friends. Along the way they meet Salvatore and he just happens to be the son of mafia underboss of Philly. Tony experiences life in such turmoil but pulled himself out and made his life how we wanted. The end result was not what I expected but that's what made this book so amazing. I will definitely be reading more by Paige Dearth
June 15, 2017
( 4.5 stars out of 5 )
An action-packed, heart-wrenching and vividly graphic novel that realistically exposes the grittiest parts of humanity.
Tony has always led a tormented life. Born to an alcoholic, physically abusive father -- he is bullied at home and school. In a fit of rage, Tony fights back against his school tormentors, earning the respect of other kids and the lifelong friendship of the ringleader. Defending the defenseless leads him to another friendship with Salvatore -- a mob boss's son -- when Tony intervenes on the behalf of Salvatore. In an act of revenge against his bully, Salvatore commits a horrific crime in which Tony is blamed. Suffering the consequences of his friend's crime, Tony is degenerated by the atrocities bestowed upon him, setting the course for his future. MEAN LITTLE PEOPLE explores the deepest, darkest depths of mankind. The characterization of Tony blurs into the gray area between good and evil as he struggles to survive in horrific situations. An action-packed, heart-wrenching and vividly graphic novel that realistically exposes the grittiest parts of humanity.
* Disturbing scenes of physical and sexual abuse as well as torture are portrayed in this novel and may trigger some readers *
~ Kris Miller, certified TopShelf Reviewer. TopShelf Magazine does not offer 'paid review services’ and TopShelf Reviewers are not compensated for their reviews.
April 19, 2020
This is a very tough book to read.
The violence is off the charts, physical & mental both to a child and to adults. Let me repeat, this is a violent book and not easy to read, however it is also well written and addictive. We wonder how people become monsters, well here is your answer. I often think about the environment in which people are brought up in. If its a good environment those people generally are good and decent people, it's what they know, learned, experienced, saw and therefore they repeat that. Well then the same has to be true for the opposite, a hideous & violent upbringing results in another monstrous person.
I don't want to read another Paige Dearth book, it is simply too sad, too depressing, too much. I won't forget this story.
The violence is off the charts, physical & mental both to a child and to adults. Let me repeat, this is a violent book and not easy to read, however it is also well written and addictive. We wonder how people become monsters, well here is your answer. I often think about the environment in which people are brought up in. If its a good environment those people generally are good and decent people, it's what they know, learned, experienced, saw and therefore they repeat that. Well then the same has to be true for the opposite, a hideous & violent upbringing results in another monstrous person.
I don't want to read another Paige Dearth book, it is simply too sad, too depressing, too much. I won't forget this story.
October 22, 2018
An enthralling, savage, and heartbreaking read.
Children can be so cruel to each other, brutal even. Tony Bruno has learned way too much about how cruel very early in life. He's also learned that a lot of those children grow up to be even more brutal adults. Monsters who seemingly have no one to answer to.
This story is graphic and raw. We go through Tony's horrific childhood ... dealing with ruthless bullies, abusive family members, juvenile detention, child molesters, homelessness, devastating losses, and both mob and gang life where he witnesses numerous violent and sadistic acts. This book goes to some extremely dark places.
All he wants is to not be alone, to have someone to love him, be there for him, take care of him, and he gets everything but that from most of the adults in his life. The few who do care are powerless to help and offer what little they can. He spends much of his life trying to find somewhere to belong.
It was hard to put this one down, it's loaded with drama and action that keeps you turning the pages. This is the first book that I've read from this author, but I own a few more and they have moved up significantly on my to read list, I'm going right into One Among Us next.
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway and that in no way influenced this review.
Children can be so cruel to each other, brutal even. Tony Bruno has learned way too much about how cruel very early in life. He's also learned that a lot of those children grow up to be even more brutal adults. Monsters who seemingly have no one to answer to.
This story is graphic and raw. We go through Tony's horrific childhood ... dealing with ruthless bullies, abusive family members, juvenile detention, child molesters, homelessness, devastating losses, and both mob and gang life where he witnesses numerous violent and sadistic acts. This book goes to some extremely dark places.
All he wants is to not be alone, to have someone to love him, be there for him, take care of him, and he gets everything but that from most of the adults in his life. The few who do care are powerless to help and offer what little they can. He spends much of his life trying to find somewhere to belong.
It was hard to put this one down, it's loaded with drama and action that keeps you turning the pages. This is the first book that I've read from this author, but I own a few more and they have moved up significantly on my to read list, I'm going right into One Among Us next.
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway and that in no way influenced this review.
November 15, 2016
*****Copy of book provided by NetGalley for honest review.*****
From a young age Tony is bullied at school and at home by his father. His mother is unable to protect him as she herself is battered by her husband and her father abused her mother too. This was such a heartbreaking story and all I could think was that these things happen in real life. In a twist of faith his bully becomes his best friend and is soon joined by another. I was routing for things to get better but he is soon thrown out to the street, sent to juvenile detention and abused by those sent to protect him. I really enjoyed this story and it made me cry at times for Tony.
From a young age Tony is bullied at school and at home by his father. His mother is unable to protect him as she herself is battered by her husband and her father abused her mother too. This was such a heartbreaking story and all I could think was that these things happen in real life. In a twist of faith his bully becomes his best friend and is soon joined by another. I was routing for things to get better but he is soon thrown out to the street, sent to juvenile detention and abused by those sent to protect him. I really enjoyed this story and it made me cry at times for Tony.
August 19, 2017
I have read several books by Paige Dearth and all have been excellent. A very emotional book and heartbreaking. Looking forward to reading more by this author.
March 23, 2020
Dang
Such a good book. By no means is it for the light-hearted. This book is Good from beginning to end!
Such a good book. By no means is it for the light-hearted. This book is Good from beginning to end!
January 10, 2018
Paige Dearth’s Mean Little People is a difficult book to review. Her plotting and story arches are excellent but her characterisations and dialogue are very stilted and at times implausible due to the limitations of her writing style.
Mean Little People has a lot going for it. As stated above, the plotting and situations are above par and keeps the reader enthralled within the story structure. It is very episodic and there are many things within this framework that work extremely well. The main character is interesting and the depth and depravity that is found within this setting is dark and deeply disturbing. I was invested on how everything would turn out but I did have to overlook some flaws which at times made it hard to differentiate between the different characters.
The flaws in which take away from the book are lack of personable dialogue where everyone pretty much speaks in the same exact way which flattens some of the characters. There is also the lack of real character depths when dealing with secondary characters which creates some cardboard cut-out villains that could do with a bit of a polish to lift the material to a higher standard. This prevents some readers to become fully invested in the overall plot. If you can overlook this and just coast along for the ride, you will find the workings of an excellent plot.
The material is dark and maybe a bit too much for some readers as this does deal with a harsh reality of sexual, physical and mental abuse. Good characters of heart are often crucified or snuffed out and evil tends to prevail and win which for some audiences this will not be the tied up in a neat bow. It is a messy story and it does work for being so but the author has made some hard decisions and I have to admire her for sticking by these. You can tell that the author is deeply invested in her characters and at times it must have been difficult to tell their story and make the decisions she made.
The only other fault that and this is more of a personal reflection is the acknowledgement and paragraphs before the manuscript where the author gives a glimpse into her own abuse whilst growing up. I personally feel that if this was put at the end of the book, it would probably lift the book as a footnote instead of a precursor to the overall book. This is just a personal gripe and really does not take away from the overall manuscript.
Overall, this is a good read and not sure what the author’s intentions are. If it is to raise awareness of bullying and abuse, it really doesn’t hit the bullet points but if she is putting a story out there for dark and entertaining that she has hit all the marks. This is a very good yarn though it is very dark and has a hard hitting violence that will offend some readers. If you have the stomach and constitution for the subject material, you should be rewarded with a great plotted story. I for one will be looking out for the sequel as I am interested where Ms Dearth will take the story. I would give this 3 ½ stars but I will round this up to a four star rating.
Mean Little People has a lot going for it. As stated above, the plotting and situations are above par and keeps the reader enthralled within the story structure. It is very episodic and there are many things within this framework that work extremely well. The main character is interesting and the depth and depravity that is found within this setting is dark and deeply disturbing. I was invested on how everything would turn out but I did have to overlook some flaws which at times made it hard to differentiate between the different characters.
The flaws in which take away from the book are lack of personable dialogue where everyone pretty much speaks in the same exact way which flattens some of the characters. There is also the lack of real character depths when dealing with secondary characters which creates some cardboard cut-out villains that could do with a bit of a polish to lift the material to a higher standard. This prevents some readers to become fully invested in the overall plot. If you can overlook this and just coast along for the ride, you will find the workings of an excellent plot.
The material is dark and maybe a bit too much for some readers as this does deal with a harsh reality of sexual, physical and mental abuse. Good characters of heart are often crucified or snuffed out and evil tends to prevail and win which for some audiences this will not be the tied up in a neat bow. It is a messy story and it does work for being so but the author has made some hard decisions and I have to admire her for sticking by these. You can tell that the author is deeply invested in her characters and at times it must have been difficult to tell their story and make the decisions she made.
The only other fault that and this is more of a personal reflection is the acknowledgement and paragraphs before the manuscript where the author gives a glimpse into her own abuse whilst growing up. I personally feel that if this was put at the end of the book, it would probably lift the book as a footnote instead of a precursor to the overall book. This is just a personal gripe and really does not take away from the overall manuscript.
Overall, this is a good read and not sure what the author’s intentions are. If it is to raise awareness of bullying and abuse, it really doesn’t hit the bullet points but if she is putting a story out there for dark and entertaining that she has hit all the marks. This is a very good yarn though it is very dark and has a hard hitting violence that will offend some readers. If you have the stomach and constitution for the subject material, you should be rewarded with a great plotted story. I for one will be looking out for the sequel as I am interested where Ms Dearth will take the story. I would give this 3 ½ stars but I will round this up to a four star rating.
August 11, 2017
Whew...I need to take a shower after reading this book
First of all, if you have any PTSD triggers to bullying, rape, many types of abuse, or violence - this might NOT be the story for you. It starts out at a 100mph and it's pedal to the metal after that.
The story starts out with 7 year-old Tony Bruno being ruthlessly bullied by his classmates and physically abused by his father. And as the years pass, the action ramps up.
Tony does what he has to to survive and this is a dark, dark story of him growing up and maturing.
The book is not what I expected. It is much broader in scope than I thought it was going to be as it tells his story well up into adulthood in different parts of Philadelphia.
It is well written with meticulously described characters and settings but BE WARNED. There is graphic violence, sexual situations including rapes and torture.
I received this book from the author through Net Galley in exchange for my unbiased review.
First of all, if you have any PTSD triggers to bullying, rape, many types of abuse, or violence - this might NOT be the story for you. It starts out at a 100mph and it's pedal to the metal after that.
The story starts out with 7 year-old Tony Bruno being ruthlessly bullied by his classmates and physically abused by his father. And as the years pass, the action ramps up.
Tony does what he has to to survive and this is a dark, dark story of him growing up and maturing.
The book is not what I expected. It is much broader in scope than I thought it was going to be as it tells his story well up into adulthood in different parts of Philadelphia.
It is well written with meticulously described characters and settings but BE WARNED. There is graphic violence, sexual situations including rapes and torture.
I received this book from the author through Net Galley in exchange for my unbiased review.
May 13, 2024
Violence upon a child begets violent revenge.
3.75 stars. **Mild spoilers!**
Tony Bruno, age 7. Whipping boy of his sadistic father. Bullied daily at school and on the streets. He meets Salvatore, son of the South Philadelphia mob boss, and gets framed for Salvatore's crime. To young for prison, Tony is sent to juvenile detention, were greater physical and emotional abuse is heaped upon him by the very guards whose jobs were to protect him.
What follows is a gut-wrenching story of an innocent child becoming a man who turns the tables on all the "mean little people" who wronged him throughout his life. Changing from bullied to bully to killer. From bully to gang member to one of Philadelphia's top Mafia bosses.
I would have rated this book higher, but some of the plotlines were way past sadistic and bordered on nauseating.
**Triggers: Child abuse and neglect. Child rape. Murder, gang violence, Mafia entanglement, violent revenge, learning to love and loosing many loved ones.
3.75 stars. **Mild spoilers!**
Tony Bruno, age 7. Whipping boy of his sadistic father. Bullied daily at school and on the streets. He meets Salvatore, son of the South Philadelphia mob boss, and gets framed for Salvatore's crime. To young for prison, Tony is sent to juvenile detention, were greater physical and emotional abuse is heaped upon him by the very guards whose jobs were to protect him.
What follows is a gut-wrenching story of an innocent child becoming a man who turns the tables on all the "mean little people" who wronged him throughout his life. Changing from bullied to bully to killer. From bully to gang member to one of Philadelphia's top Mafia bosses.
I would have rated this book higher, but some of the plotlines were way past sadistic and bordered on nauseating.
**Triggers: Child abuse and neglect. Child rape. Murder, gang violence, Mafia entanglement, violent revenge, learning to love and loosing many loved ones.
June 1, 2017
I received a free copy of 'Mean Little People' in exchange for an honest review.
What a dark book. We meet Tony Bruno at age 7. An outcast, bullied and abused by his peers and his own father, the poor kid hasn't got a lot going for him right from the start. He eventually learns to stand up for himself and finds friends, but then also finds himself taking the rap for one of them and landing himself in juvie - which results in a huge downwards spiral for him. It's pretty hard hitting, as although worlds and worlds away from my life, unfortunately, it feels like a lot of the topics covered in the book are very real for a very large number of people.
As I said before, this is a dark book. It's pretty graphic and disturbing - quite a full on read if I'm being honest - but I could not put it down. I read it in one sitting. Despite some of the horrendous stuff that Tony and his friends get up to, I found most of the characters quite likeable, which I think was intentional on the authors behalf, and proves that she has done a great job. This book definitely would not be for everyone, but I thoroughly enjoyed it, and will be adding Paige Dearth to my authors list!
What a dark book. We meet Tony Bruno at age 7. An outcast, bullied and abused by his peers and his own father, the poor kid hasn't got a lot going for him right from the start. He eventually learns to stand up for himself and finds friends, but then also finds himself taking the rap for one of them and landing himself in juvie - which results in a huge downwards spiral for him. It's pretty hard hitting, as although worlds and worlds away from my life, unfortunately, it feels like a lot of the topics covered in the book are very real for a very large number of people.
As I said before, this is a dark book. It's pretty graphic and disturbing - quite a full on read if I'm being honest - but I could not put it down. I read it in one sitting. Despite some of the horrendous stuff that Tony and his friends get up to, I found most of the characters quite likeable, which I think was intentional on the authors behalf, and proves that she has done a great job. This book definitely would not be for everyone, but I thoroughly enjoyed it, and will be adding Paige Dearth to my authors list!
May 22, 2017
This is a dark book. Tony is bullied at school, bullied at home by his father, winds up in Juvie where horrible things happen to him, lives on the streets and pretty much raises himself. Just when you think things are in an upswing you get the rug pulled out from under you. It is an emotional roller coaster of a book.
As a Philly girl I loved the setting and Dearth really brings South Philly to life, North Philadelphia has changed a bit from the time this book is set but I remember when it was the gang ridden hell hole she describes.
Its been a few days since I finished this book and its still sitting with me. Tony is one of those characters who will stay with me for a long time.
As a Philly girl I loved the setting and Dearth really brings South Philly to life, North Philadelphia has changed a bit from the time this book is set but I remember when it was the gang ridden hell hole she describes.
Its been a few days since I finished this book and its still sitting with me. Tony is one of those characters who will stay with me for a long time.
September 12, 2017
Wow what a brutal read this was, very hard to read in parts due to the nature of the book and what happens to 5yr old Tony both at home and at school. His life is just awful and there's no respite from the bullying, abuse and neglect.
It's such a dark and twisted book but highly enjoyable also (sick as that sounds).
It tells the story of Tony from been a young boy to an adult and all the trials and tribulations of his life. It's about nature and nurture and just how wrong it can go when kids are treated the way he was. It's crude and a very very tough read I couldn't read it all in one go as I needed a break from it (so god knows how Tony felt living it). I was rooting for him throughout knowing how hopeless his situation was and just hoping beyond hope he came through and proved everyone wrong for himself if not anyone else.
In all though a tremendous book and I'd recommend it to others regardless of the dark nature of it. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
It's such a dark and twisted book but highly enjoyable also (sick as that sounds).
It tells the story of Tony from been a young boy to an adult and all the trials and tribulations of his life. It's about nature and nurture and just how wrong it can go when kids are treated the way he was. It's crude and a very very tough read I couldn't read it all in one go as I needed a break from it (so god knows how Tony felt living it). I was rooting for him throughout knowing how hopeless his situation was and just hoping beyond hope he came through and proved everyone wrong for himself if not anyone else.
In all though a tremendous book and I'd recommend it to others regardless of the dark nature of it. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
July 21, 2021
The most poorly written juvenile drivel that I have ever read. I am totally stumped as to how this book could possibly have gotten the amount of positive reviews that it has. I will make it a point to remember this author's name to be sure that I never read any of her other books.
April 12, 2024
Sad at the end...
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