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Iphigenia Murphy
Running away from home hasn't solved Iphigenia Murphy's problems. In fact, it's only a matter of time before they'll catch up with her. Iffy is desperate to find her long-lost mother, and, so far, in spite of the need to forage for food and shelter and fend off an unending number of creeps, living in Queens' Forest Park has felt safer than living at home. But as the summer days get shorter, it all threatens to fall apart.
A novel that explores the sustaining love of friendship, the kindness of strangers, and the indelible bond of family, Iphigenia Murphy captures the gritty side of 1992 Queens, the most diverse borough in New York City. Just like Iffy, the friends she makes in the park--Angel, a stray dog with the most ridiculous tail; Corinne, a young trans woman who is escaping her own abusive situation; and Anthony, a former foster kid from upstate whose parents are addicts--each seek a place where they feel at home. Whether fate or coincidence has brought them together, within this community of misfits Iffy can finally be herself, but she still has to face the effects of abandonment and abuse--and the possibility that she may be pregnant. During what turns out to be a remarkable journey to find her mother, will Iffy ultimately discover herself?
A novel that explores the sustaining love of friendship, the kindness of strangers, and the indelible bond of family, Iphigenia Murphy captures the gritty side of 1992 Queens, the most diverse borough in New York City. Just like Iffy, the friends she makes in the park--Angel, a stray dog with the most ridiculous tail; Corinne, a young trans woman who is escaping her own abusive situation; and Anthony, a former foster kid from upstate whose parents are addicts--each seek a place where they feel at home. Whether fate or coincidence has brought them together, within this community of misfits Iffy can finally be herself, but she still has to face the effects of abandonment and abuse--and the possibility that she may be pregnant. During what turns out to be a remarkable journey to find her mother, will Iffy ultimately discover herself?
272 pages, Hardcover
First published March 10, 2020
7 people are currently reading
3004 people want to read
About the author
Sara Hosey
7 books137 followersSara Hosey's debut novel, IPHIGENIA MURPHY, about a runaway who starts a new life in a wooded city park, has been called "gritty and unflinching" and named an audible buzzworthy listen. Kirkus Reviews calls her latest YA novel, SUMMER PEOPLE, "a timely mystery exploring multiple complex themes."
Sara's debut short story collection, DIRTY SUBURBIA, traces the experiences of girls and women living in a world that often hates them.
Sara's debut short story collection, DIRTY SUBURBIA, traces the experiences of girls and women living in a world that often hates them.
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March 24, 2020Originally published on The Nerd Daily | Review by Laura Erne
Iphigenia Murphy by Sara Hosey was a welcome surprise from Blackstone Publishing. There were many things that didn’t jump out at me as I read the synopsis but then I started to read the book and everything changed. This tough and gritty 90’s New York setting was disturbing and yet brilliant all at once. Hosey was able to create a simple depiction of a teenage runaway with an enormous amount of power backing her. I’m nothing like the main character in situation or personality and yet I found so much that I could connect with and that impressed me. The relationships created in this story were heartwarming and it showed how rough loneliness really is.
Be warned that there is no exaggerating how dark this flash from the past is. There’s abuse, homelessness, broken homes, drugs, and sexual assault. This isn’t a cute and quirky read. This deals with real life and there’s no such thing as a perfect life. This is real, raw, and gritty. If any of these themes mentioned above are triggers, I would not suggest reading this because it’s tough.
The main character, Iphigenia Murphy is strong, smart, and resilient. She comes from a broken home with an abusive stepbrother, a missing mother, a shrewd stepmother, and a neglectful father full of regret and anger all towards her. There’s no wonder she runs away and like I said, nothing she goes through isn’t even remotely close to my own life but I could understand her. She was taking charge and doing something for herself. That takes a lot of courage especially for a fifteen-year-old and her adapting to living on her own in the park showed her resourcefulness and tough tenacity to escape her cruelly dealt hand in life.
“And Lizette’s mother’s ex-boyfriend used to hit her. And I knew, too, that what happened at home, in your real life, was different from the stories on Beverly Hills 90210 or what they talked about in school. Just totally disconnected, like all that stuff they said about domestic violence and molestation and abuse, it was all well and good, but it had nothing to do with what was happening to me, to any of us. You can’t just walk out of your own life, like they do on TV.”
This should definitely be adapted into today’s school curriculum because all these things that happen are true and relevant and important to voice. There’s something here that kids today need to read so they stop taking everything they have for granted. There are tons of life lessons to be had and hard truths that people like to forget but keep happening. Maybe not to them, but perhaps it’s someone they know or they’re neighbour etc. This has real life situations that are too important to be overlooked and this book does an EXCELLENT job at exposing it in a simple and effective way.
I was initially worried about the 1992 backdrop for the plot because it was another thing I couldn’t connect with having no real idea what it’s like to be Iffy, but it was still easy to understand. I wasn’t constantly looking up words, phrases, or events circa 1990’s because that wasn’t the purpose of the story, the description was simple and the plot and situations that happen to Iffy are unfortunately still a true reality for many today. This book opened my eyes to so many different things. You know when you think the world is going to end because you didn’t get that ‘A’ your parents wanted or when you finally find the courage to ask your crush out only to be cruelly rejected in front of the entire school, you see how frivolous and stupid those things are compared to Iffy’s struggles. You see that life really can be worse for others and you start to see how much you take for granted in your own life. It’s scary and real and unbelievably still relevant. Hosey painted an incredibly vivid story that followed colourful characters and crafted a work of writing with a raw simplicity packed with emotions.
“I blew out the candles. I wished. I wished so hard. I had learned my lesson from fairy tales, though, to never make your wish too specific. Like, if you wish for a lot of money, you might get a big check, but because, like, you lost your arm in an accident or something. So, I left it vague. I wish to be okay. I wish for us all to be okay.”
For someone who fell in love with the perfect fairytale ‘happily ever afters’ as a child, this resonated with me quite a lot. This girl is only 16, but she’s so wise and it’s sad because this book tells you why she’s like that. She had to grow up much younger than most and for her that in itself was a hard lesson she had to learn because otherwise she wouldn’t make it out alive.
“Well, I can be the brains and you can be the beauty,’ I said.”
“Oh, you got them both. I can be, well, I’ll just be the boyfriend.”
This book has an unexpected romance amid all the friendships and although it was an insta-love, I found it was sweet enough that the immediacy of the relationship wasn’t as noticeable as others are. Anthony was a sweetheart and he was the perfect match for Iffy. He never saw her as the girl from the broken home, or the girl who was her stepbrothers leftovers. She was just Iffy, the girl he met at the park, the one who lent him one of her precious books despite just meeting him. She took the chance on him and he saw how lucky he was to have met her rather than the other way around. He isn’t an arrogant ass and he’s never embarrassed by her. And one of the most important things to include about him was how he never doubted his relationship with her. Yes, there isn’t a perspective for him to show that but every scene with these two had him smitten for her. Ant and Iff for always!
I loved the author’s inclusion of how to pronounce Iphigenia’s name as well as the origins behind it because I live for that stuff! It’s probably one of the most unique names I’ve ever come across and that’s saying something because I’ve read a lot of fantasy books. One more nerdy but very important thing to include is one more applause for Hosey’s writing. It was very simple like I’ve mentioned countless times already (each time because of it’s immense importance) but this phrase stuck with me for the whole 283 pages of the book.
“And I knew what he would say if I asked, and it went something like, ‘Shut the fuck up,’ maybe punctuated with a slap.”
This is a first person narration/perspective and it not only sounds like a teenager, but it also has that wow factor to it. I can picture this exact phrase over and over again and every time it keeps every ounce of power behind it. I can hear that punctuated slap coming and flinch every single time. It’s chilling. It’s powerful. And it shows early on that Hosey has what it takes to deliver a strong piece of writing. She was brilliant and I’m beyond excited to see more from her. I was impressed with everything in here and I was incredibly glad for this book mail from Blackstone Publishing!
Iphigenia Murphy by Sara Hosey was a welcome surprise from Blackstone Publishing. There were many things that didn’t jump out at me as I read the synopsis but then I started to read the book and everything changed. This tough and gritty 90’s New York setting was disturbing and yet brilliant all at once. Hosey was able to create a simple depiction of a teenage runaway with an enormous amount of power backing her. I’m nothing like the main character in situation or personality and yet I found so much that I could connect with and that impressed me. The relationships created in this story were heartwarming and it showed how rough loneliness really is.
Be warned that there is no exaggerating how dark this flash from the past is. There’s abuse, homelessness, broken homes, drugs, and sexual assault. This isn’t a cute and quirky read. This deals with real life and there’s no such thing as a perfect life. This is real, raw, and gritty. If any of these themes mentioned above are triggers, I would not suggest reading this because it’s tough.
The main character, Iphigenia Murphy is strong, smart, and resilient. She comes from a broken home with an abusive stepbrother, a missing mother, a shrewd stepmother, and a neglectful father full of regret and anger all towards her. There’s no wonder she runs away and like I said, nothing she goes through isn’t even remotely close to my own life but I could understand her. She was taking charge and doing something for herself. That takes a lot of courage especially for a fifteen-year-old and her adapting to living on her own in the park showed her resourcefulness and tough tenacity to escape her cruelly dealt hand in life.
“And Lizette’s mother’s ex-boyfriend used to hit her. And I knew, too, that what happened at home, in your real life, was different from the stories on Beverly Hills 90210 or what they talked about in school. Just totally disconnected, like all that stuff they said about domestic violence and molestation and abuse, it was all well and good, but it had nothing to do with what was happening to me, to any of us. You can’t just walk out of your own life, like they do on TV.”
This should definitely be adapted into today’s school curriculum because all these things that happen are true and relevant and important to voice. There’s something here that kids today need to read so they stop taking everything they have for granted. There are tons of life lessons to be had and hard truths that people like to forget but keep happening. Maybe not to them, but perhaps it’s someone they know or they’re neighbour etc. This has real life situations that are too important to be overlooked and this book does an EXCELLENT job at exposing it in a simple and effective way.
I was initially worried about the 1992 backdrop for the plot because it was another thing I couldn’t connect with having no real idea what it’s like to be Iffy, but it was still easy to understand. I wasn’t constantly looking up words, phrases, or events circa 1990’s because that wasn’t the purpose of the story, the description was simple and the plot and situations that happen to Iffy are unfortunately still a true reality for many today. This book opened my eyes to so many different things. You know when you think the world is going to end because you didn’t get that ‘A’ your parents wanted or when you finally find the courage to ask your crush out only to be cruelly rejected in front of the entire school, you see how frivolous and stupid those things are compared to Iffy’s struggles. You see that life really can be worse for others and you start to see how much you take for granted in your own life. It’s scary and real and unbelievably still relevant. Hosey painted an incredibly vivid story that followed colourful characters and crafted a work of writing with a raw simplicity packed with emotions.
“I blew out the candles. I wished. I wished so hard. I had learned my lesson from fairy tales, though, to never make your wish too specific. Like, if you wish for a lot of money, you might get a big check, but because, like, you lost your arm in an accident or something. So, I left it vague. I wish to be okay. I wish for us all to be okay.”
For someone who fell in love with the perfect fairytale ‘happily ever afters’ as a child, this resonated with me quite a lot. This girl is only 16, but she’s so wise and it’s sad because this book tells you why she’s like that. She had to grow up much younger than most and for her that in itself was a hard lesson she had to learn because otherwise she wouldn’t make it out alive.
“Well, I can be the brains and you can be the beauty,’ I said.”
“Oh, you got them both. I can be, well, I’ll just be the boyfriend.”
This book has an unexpected romance amid all the friendships and although it was an insta-love, I found it was sweet enough that the immediacy of the relationship wasn’t as noticeable as others are. Anthony was a sweetheart and he was the perfect match for Iffy. He never saw her as the girl from the broken home, or the girl who was her stepbrothers leftovers. She was just Iffy, the girl he met at the park, the one who lent him one of her precious books despite just meeting him. She took the chance on him and he saw how lucky he was to have met her rather than the other way around. He isn’t an arrogant ass and he’s never embarrassed by her. And one of the most important things to include about him was how he never doubted his relationship with her. Yes, there isn’t a perspective for him to show that but every scene with these two had him smitten for her. Ant and Iff for always!
I loved the author’s inclusion of how to pronounce Iphigenia’s name as well as the origins behind it because I live for that stuff! It’s probably one of the most unique names I’ve ever come across and that’s saying something because I’ve read a lot of fantasy books. One more nerdy but very important thing to include is one more applause for Hosey’s writing. It was very simple like I’ve mentioned countless times already (each time because of it’s immense importance) but this phrase stuck with me for the whole 283 pages of the book.
“And I knew what he would say if I asked, and it went something like, ‘Shut the fuck up,’ maybe punctuated with a slap.”
This is a first person narration/perspective and it not only sounds like a teenager, but it also has that wow factor to it. I can picture this exact phrase over and over again and every time it keeps every ounce of power behind it. I can hear that punctuated slap coming and flinch every single time. It’s chilling. It’s powerful. And it shows early on that Hosey has what it takes to deliver a strong piece of writing. She was brilliant and I’m beyond excited to see more from her. I was impressed with everything in here and I was incredibly glad for this book mail from Blackstone Publishing!
January 3, 2021
Actual rating: 3.70
Finished this last night with the hope of feeling all achy breaky heart and sadness as most reviews would tell you but ofcourse I didn't find it as much powerful enough to have such emotions flow from me.
Finished this last night with the hope of feeling all achy breaky heart and sadness as most reviews would tell you but ofcourse I didn't find it as much powerful enough to have such emotions flow from me.
April 23, 2020
*This review can also be found on The Reader & The Chef! Huge thanks to Blackstone and MTMC Tours for the tour copy.*
Oh my heart. Iphigenia Murphy is a heart-breaking tale about abandonment, abuse, homelessness and survival. I was not prepared for this emotionally raw journey, but I am glad I did get to experience Iphigenia Murphy because it’s such a great read. It made me tear up and feel anger (so much anger), but also so much love and fierce protectiveness over the characters. ♥
Iphigenia Murphy is the book’s title AND the main character’s name, and it fits perfectly because this novel is truly character-centric. The characters ARE the highlight of this book. Starting off with Iphigenia, I must say that I truly loved and felt for her. She’s brave and courageous, but most of the times she’s scared and incredibly lonely, which made my heart weep even more. Reading about her struggles constantly made me want to jump inside the book to help her out. After being abandoned my her mother, ignored/blamed by her father and stepmother, not to mention abused by her stepbrother; she decides she can’t take it no longer and is better off finding shelter in the park while seeking out her mother. It’s then that she starts to meet other characters with their own abusive relationships or struggles and she forms precious new bonds that, while they don’t fix her problems, it sure helps her struggling lonely heart.
Here is where I must also mention my love for Corinne (a trans woman escaping her own abusive relationship) & Angel, the dog. The moment we meet Corinne and Angel my heart began to breathe a bit easier since Iffy is so lonely at first, navigating life at the park while looking for the whereabouts of her mom. Living in the outside world is dangerous, particularly for a young girl, and I just love how Iffy, Corinne, and Angel find companionship with each other. And eventually, Anthony who is a character that later comes into their lives and is also precious!
But as I mentioned before, this book is raw. It’s not a happy story and there are no easy answers. It portrays homelessness, abandonment, domestic violence and emotional abuse. Rape and abortion for rape survivors. It was heartbreaking to read about it, but also important. However, Iphigenia Murphy DOES highlight the kindness of people amidst the nastiness of others, and how important it is to believe and support victims of sexual abuse.
Make sure to add Iphigenia Murphy to your TBR!
Oh my heart. Iphigenia Murphy is a heart-breaking tale about abandonment, abuse, homelessness and survival. I was not prepared for this emotionally raw journey, but I am glad I did get to experience Iphigenia Murphy because it’s such a great read. It made me tear up and feel anger (so much anger), but also so much love and fierce protectiveness over the characters. ♥
Iphigenia Murphy is the book’s title AND the main character’s name, and it fits perfectly because this novel is truly character-centric. The characters ARE the highlight of this book. Starting off with Iphigenia, I must say that I truly loved and felt for her. She’s brave and courageous, but most of the times she’s scared and incredibly lonely, which made my heart weep even more. Reading about her struggles constantly made me want to jump inside the book to help her out. After being abandoned my her mother, ignored/blamed by her father and stepmother, not to mention abused by her stepbrother; she decides she can’t take it no longer and is better off finding shelter in the park while seeking out her mother. It’s then that she starts to meet other characters with their own abusive relationships or struggles and she forms precious new bonds that, while they don’t fix her problems, it sure helps her struggling lonely heart.
Here is where I must also mention my love for Corinne (a trans woman escaping her own abusive relationship) & Angel, the dog. The moment we meet Corinne and Angel my heart began to breathe a bit easier since Iffy is so lonely at first, navigating life at the park while looking for the whereabouts of her mom. Living in the outside world is dangerous, particularly for a young girl, and I just love how Iffy, Corinne, and Angel find companionship with each other. And eventually, Anthony who is a character that later comes into their lives and is also precious!
But as I mentioned before, this book is raw. It’s not a happy story and there are no easy answers. It portrays homelessness, abandonment, domestic violence and emotional abuse. Rape and abortion for rape survivors. It was heartbreaking to read about it, but also important. However, Iphigenia Murphy DOES highlight the kindness of people amidst the nastiness of others, and how important it is to believe and support victims of sexual abuse.
Make sure to add Iphigenia Murphy to your TBR!
October 9, 2019
This is a book that I went into without expecting much and was then amazed by.
What initially made me read this story was that I had never encountered a main character in Iphi’s situation before.
Most of the book is set on the street and it was amazing and heartbreaking to see that that was where Iphy felt the safest in comparison with her old house. The description of Iphy’s day to day was also one of the best parts of the book, not only because it let us peek behind the curtain on what it was to be homeless but how it was to be a fifteen-year-old girl living in the streets.
This book reminded me of Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine and that filled me with hope: in both cases, we get to know young women with a history of mental illness to whom something monstrous was done, the difference being Iphy living in the 90s and Eleanor in the 2010s. While Iphy had no other solution than running way, social services helped Eleanor from the beginning and that made all the difference. The books are also similar in the importance they place in small acts of kindness and how they can change a life.
I was not too crazy about how the book started but I loved everything after that: the theme, the other characters and their interactions with Iphy and the rhythm at which the story was told. I was reading this story with my heart in my throat the entire time, never knowing what would happen next.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and Edelweiss+ for this DRC.
7/10
What initially made me read this story was that I had never encountered a main character in Iphi’s situation before.
Most of the book is set on the street and it was amazing and heartbreaking to see that that was where Iphy felt the safest in comparison with her old house. The description of Iphy’s day to day was also one of the best parts of the book, not only because it let us peek behind the curtain on what it was to be homeless but how it was to be a fifteen-year-old girl living in the streets.
This book reminded me of Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine and that filled me with hope: in both cases, we get to know young women with a history of mental illness to whom something monstrous was done, the difference being Iphy living in the 90s and Eleanor in the 2010s. While Iphy had no other solution than running way, social services helped Eleanor from the beginning and that made all the difference. The books are also similar in the importance they place in small acts of kindness and how they can change a life.
I was not too crazy about how the book started but I loved everything after that: the theme, the other characters and their interactions with Iphy and the rhythm at which the story was told. I was reading this story with my heart in my throat the entire time, never knowing what would happen next.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and Edelweiss+ for this DRC.
7/10
September 11, 2022
I really loved this book. I have a lot of trouble finding YA books that I like, and this was one of the few that passed my test. The author is also my friend and former professor, so of course this was a must-read. I loved the writing style, I was immediately sucked into the story and wanted to keep reading to see where things would go. But what I loved the most about this book were the characters, particularly the female characters, particularly Iffy and Corinne. It is so difficult to find stories with well-written, diverse, realistic female characters. The characters in this story are very realistic in that they are not based on a single stereotype or on being “not like other girls.” These characters are messy, they don’t always make the right choices or do everything perfectly. I also have never read a book with this kind of story and that focused on characters like these. Lastly, I thought that Sara did an excellent job tackling the heavy themes in this story in an authentic way, without pushing a heavy-handed message or writing “tragedy porn,” which I have seen in a lot of other stories with heavy themes. I loved that the story ended in an open-ended way but also on a very hopeful note, and that we are shown that though there is a lot of darkness in the world, there are also people who truly care about being there for others. Thank you so much for writing this, Sara! I can’t wait to read your other books!
April 11, 2020
Iphigenia Muphy is a YA novel in the way that Hunger Games or Lord of the Rings were YA novels. It is absolutely a must-read for adults of all ages who want compelling stories that dig into difficult issues by telling incredible stories in believable ways. Iphigenia Murphy is a 15-year-old from Queens with a family that is at turns violent and neglectful. She runs away to Forest Park (with a pretty viable plan for surviving at least through the summer), and meets a host of characters as complicated as she is.
Sara Hosey's writing avoids any whiff of the stereotypical portrayals of abuse, victimization, and survivorship. She takes violence and injustice head-on and lets the reader see them through the eyes of this shy, unpopular, smart, perceptive, young woman who has decided she's had enough and is going to live life on her own terms.
If you want to read something serious that sucks you in and gives you a character to root for, you need to meet Iphigenia Murphy.
March 5, 2020
Disclaimer: I received an e-arc and a finished copy from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Iphigenia Murphy
Author: Sara Hosey
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: March 10, 2020
Publisher: Blackstone Publishing
Pages: 272
Recommended Age: 17+ (abortion *nothing wrong with it, but it's not some people's cup of tea and I like to be upfront.*, Rape and attempted rape, sexual assault, language, some violence)
Synopsis: Running away from home hasn't solved Iphigenia Murphy's problems. In fact, it's only a matter of time before they'll catch up with her. Iffy is desperate to find her long-lost mother, and, so far, in spite of the need to forage for food and shelter and fend off an unending number of creeps, living in Queens' Forest Park has felt safer than living at home. But as the summer days get shorter, it all threatens to fall apart.
A novel that explores the sustaining love of friendship, the kindness of strangers, and the indelible bond of family, Iphigenia Murphy captures the gritty side of 1992 Queens, the most diverse borough in New York City. Just like Iffy, the friends she makes in the park--Angel, a stray dog with the most ridiculous tail; Corinne, a young trans woman who is escaping her own abusive situation; and Anthony, a former foster kid from upstate whose parents are addicts--each seek a place where they feel at home. Whether fate or coincidence has brought them together, within this community of misfits Iffy can finally be herself, but she still has to face the effects of abandonment and abuse--and the possibility that she may be pregnant. During what turns out to be a remarkable journey to find her mother, will Iffy ultimately discover herself?
Review: I really loved the story overall. I thought the characters were well developed and the plot was intriguing. I like the world building as well and it's definitely a book that'll make you cry!
However, the writing was a bit weird in my opinion. It just felt more documentary style that in the main characters head style.
Verdict: A well done contemporary!
Book: Iphigenia Murphy
Author: Sara Hosey
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: March 10, 2020
Publisher: Blackstone Publishing
Pages: 272
Recommended Age: 17+ (abortion *nothing wrong with it, but it's not some people's cup of tea and I like to be upfront.*, Rape and attempted rape, sexual assault, language, some violence)
Synopsis: Running away from home hasn't solved Iphigenia Murphy's problems. In fact, it's only a matter of time before they'll catch up with her. Iffy is desperate to find her long-lost mother, and, so far, in spite of the need to forage for food and shelter and fend off an unending number of creeps, living in Queens' Forest Park has felt safer than living at home. But as the summer days get shorter, it all threatens to fall apart.
A novel that explores the sustaining love of friendship, the kindness of strangers, and the indelible bond of family, Iphigenia Murphy captures the gritty side of 1992 Queens, the most diverse borough in New York City. Just like Iffy, the friends she makes in the park--Angel, a stray dog with the most ridiculous tail; Corinne, a young trans woman who is escaping her own abusive situation; and Anthony, a former foster kid from upstate whose parents are addicts--each seek a place where they feel at home. Whether fate or coincidence has brought them together, within this community of misfits Iffy can finally be herself, but she still has to face the effects of abandonment and abuse--and the possibility that she may be pregnant. During what turns out to be a remarkable journey to find her mother, will Iffy ultimately discover herself?
Review: I really loved the story overall. I thought the characters were well developed and the plot was intriguing. I like the world building as well and it's definitely a book that'll make you cry!
However, the writing was a bit weird in my opinion. It just felt more documentary style that in the main characters head style.
Verdict: A well done contemporary!
July 2, 2020
This was a very hard-hitting book that managed to capture the essence of such dark themes whilst also managing to create a sense of hope and growth. I think the main focus of this novel was moving forwards and growing as a person but only for yourself and not for other people. It was a gripping and very intense story but I just don't think there was enough time to fully focus on every aspect to the max.
Thanks to Netgalley for an E-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley for an E-arc in exchange for an honest review.
March 12, 2020
I received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Happy Tuesday! Today, is all about Iphigenia Murphy, a new YA novel about a teen running away from home, and trying to find her mother.
About Iphigenia Murphy:
IMHO: Iphigenia Murphy
Iphigenia Murphy won me from the get as she was getting gone. Her home life sucks in a really common way and her response is very typical, but rarely portrayed. SO many kids run away and most books are just scary propaganda. Not so here!! It's about damn time honestly. I ran away from "home" that was a drug house and away from a violent first boyfriend and Iphigenia Murphy gets it right.
Trigger warnings for abuse, rape, neglect, racism, drug addiction and transphobia.
The Rundown:
About the Author:
Giveaway for Iphigenia Murphy:
Prize: Win a hardcover of IPHIGENIA MURPHY by Sara Hosey, a bookmark, a button and a skateboard keychain (US Only)
Starts: 4th March 2020
Ends: 18th March 2020
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Tour Schedule:
This review was originally posted on The Layaway Dragon
About Iphigenia Murphy:
IMHO: Iphigenia Murphy
Iphigenia Murphy won me from the get as she was getting gone. Her home life sucks in a really common way and her response is very typical, but rarely portrayed. SO many kids run away and most books are just scary propaganda. Not so here!! It's about damn time honestly. I ran away from "home" that was a drug house and away from a violent first boyfriend and Iphigenia Murphy gets it right.
Trigger warnings for abuse, rape, neglect, racism, drug addiction and transphobia.
The Rundown:
-Distinct voice
-Corinne, trans*queen
-Sweet and understandable instalove. I feel like people are going to judge harshly, but as a kid in a similarly fucked up home life, it's true. Imagine first love, being THAT vulnerable and desperate for connection, security and love.
-LOVE THE ABORTION REP!!!
-Handles abuse and rape VERY well
-Wish the ending was fuller, more detailed to explain her change of mind
Loved it all except the time jump ending where it felt like I was missing a step and I wanted more. I wanted every single moment.
I wondered if other people had to work so hard to try to seem normal all the time.
Lizette’s default attitude was exasperated. Sometimes she was even exasperated about having to be so exasperated all the time.
On the one hand, sometimes it seemed as though we already knew all the important stuff, we didn’t need to speak it out loud.
There are some girls that nobody looks for. Turns out, I was one of those girls Just like my mother.
And then there would be his voice in my head again. “You should be thanking me.”
Someone might murder me. I mentally shrugged.
It’s funny how quickly something can begin to seem normal. Even if it’s not. Even if it’s the least normal thing in the world.
And then something wonderful happened. That big, mismatched, fluffy tail started to wag.
Thinking back, I know that one of the things that made Corinne so attractive was that she always seemed like someone who was exactly in the right place, wherever she was.
"Saint Sneak, that’s what I’ll call you. Patron saint of the gutter punks.”
People walking down the street were crossing to the other side to avoid us.
Just totally disconnected, like all that stuff they said about domestic violence and molestation and abuse, it was all well and good, but it had nothing to do with what was happening to me, to any of us.
“A professional bag lady,” I said. “I prefer pro-hobo.”
“I know I have problems, but my situations weren’t good either, you know what I mean?”
“But her mother avenges her, Iphigenia.”
"I mean, why can’t you ever get a miscarriage when you need one?”
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Starts: 4th March 2020
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This review was originally posted on The Layaway Dragon
March 8, 2020
3.5/5
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Want to read
March 14, 2020Trigger Warnings : Abuse, Hopelessness, Trans phobia, Drugs.
This is a cruel bleak world and we barely choose to see that side of it. This book handled it conscientiously, making sure we enjoy reading it as well as take away something from it. It's a slow burning flame which ignites to become a volcano when you are done. Thank you so much @blackstonepublishing and @theffbc for giving me a chance to read this book
Characters :
This book had really interesting characters with depth and a history. Iphigenia, Connine, Anthony. Everyone made the story even more dynamic and thought provoking. They may have been abused, but they choose not to become a victim. They thrive for each other and make each other thrive for a better life. The way they processed their pain and emotions, make you challenge all your thoughts and want to make so much better.
The Story :
This story is gonna stay with me forever.
This is a cruel bleak world and we barely choose to see that side of it. This book handled it conscientiously, making sure we enjoy reading it as well as take away something from it. It's a slow burning flame which ignites to become a volcano when you are done. Thank you so much @blackstonepublishing and @theffbc for giving me a chance to read this book
Characters :
This book had really interesting characters with depth and a history. Iphigenia, Connine, Anthony. Everyone made the story even more dynamic and thought provoking. They may have been abused, but they choose not to become a victim. They thrive for each other and make each other thrive for a better life. The way they processed their pain and emotions, make you challenge all your thoughts and want to make so much better.
The Story :
This story is gonna stay with me forever.
June 14, 2020
I don't know...
How sad it is that two messed up people could mess up the lives of their children too? That instead of being protected and cherish, some children live in permanent fear-and some don't even get to be teenagers. It's nice that against all odds, Iff was still able to survive and found happiness. Yet, it only brought to mind the sad reality that many children did not and will not.
How sad it is that two messed up people could mess up the lives of their children too? That instead of being protected and cherish, some children live in permanent fear-and some don't even get to be teenagers. It's nice that against all odds, Iff was still able to survive and found happiness. Yet, it only brought to mind the sad reality that many children did not and will not.
December 9, 2019
This book spoke to my heart and spirit. I was once upon a time homeless for about 6 months growing up. I was fortunate enough to be able to spend time in shelters that were were clean and having enough money to stay in hotels. But there were a few times that we were stuck in our truck to spend the night. It wasn't the worst time of my life. But it sure wasn't the best either and its not an experience that I would like to repeat. This story is so heartbreaking and real. I loved the parts where we got to learn more about Iphigenia's every day life. It was a real eye opener to this world of living on the street. This is one story for the world to read and I hope to get my own copy of it soon.
Go Into This One Knowing: Teen Homelessness
Go Into This One Knowing: Teen Homelessness
April 26, 2020
I finished this book in one day; it's been a very long time since I've finished anything in one day! I couldn't stop reading, had to know what happened to Iphigenia, Corrine, Anthony, and Angel. I loved the book, so sincere, heartfelt, and beautifully written. The characters are bold, gritty, precious, and so very fragile and flawed. All of that. 5 stars. Hands down.
March 29, 2020
si algo no terminó de cerrarme de este libro es el final. es realmente bello que todo termine """bien""" para Iffy, pero la mayoría de casos como el de ella no terminan como un epílogo feliz en un libro. esas mujeres aparecen en las noticias: imágenes censuradas, bolsas negras con cierres de punta a punta y con una serie de números seguidos por la palabra "femicidios" a una esquina de la pantalla.
el romance no me gustó, fue muy instantáneo para mi gusto.
la relación entre la protagonista y Corinne me dejó DE CAMA. son completas desconocidas y se tratan como hermanas. me llena el alma.
also, ¿POR QUÉ NADIE LE AVISÓ A LA AUTORA QUE SER ESPAÑOL NO ES LO MISMO QUE SER LATINO? aunque para la persona blanca y estadounidense promedio no sea importante, cuando uno ABRE UN LIBRO, te das cuenta que los españoles en la actualidad son descendientes de quienes torturaron, robaron y asesinaron a nuestros ancestros.
me duele muchísimo que saber que hay miles de Iphigenias y Corissas en el mundo, adolescentes víctimas del abuso y la negligencia y no estamos haciendo nada al respecto.
si les gustó Sadie este libro puede llegar a gustarles, pero no es el primero que recomendaría para leer sobre estos temas.
tw: abuso sexual, acoso, misoginia, maltrato doméstico, abuso de sustancias, salud mental.
el romance no me gustó, fue muy instantáneo para mi gusto.
la relación entre la protagonista y Corinne me dejó DE CAMA. son completas desconocidas y se tratan como hermanas. me llena el alma.
also, ¿POR QUÉ NADIE LE AVISÓ A LA AUTORA QUE SER ESPAÑOL NO ES LO MISMO QUE SER LATINO? aunque para la persona blanca y estadounidense promedio no sea importante, cuando uno ABRE UN LIBRO, te das cuenta que los españoles en la actualidad son descendientes de quienes torturaron, robaron y asesinaron a nuestros ancestros.
me duele muchísimo que saber que hay miles de Iphigenias y Corissas en el mundo, adolescentes víctimas del abuso y la negligencia y no estamos haciendo nada al respecto.
si les gustó Sadie este libro puede llegar a gustarles, pero no es el primero que recomendaría para leer sobre estos temas.
tw: abuso sexual, acoso, misoginia, maltrato doméstico, abuso de sustancias, salud mental.
March 14, 2020
This was an intense story.
Iphigenia runs away from her abusive home to live in a park where she thinks she can find her mother. She becomes friends with a transgender woman and a young man who has been kicked out of his home. She also takes care of a homeless dog. Her new friends help her wander through the park and try to find her mother.
There were some very difficult scenes in this book. Iphigenia was abused by her stepmother and stepbrother, and her father didn’t do anything to help. Her friend Corinne was abused by her boyfriend. There was also an upsetting scene where a woman claims to be the owner of Iphigenia’s dog. As a dog owner, it was difficult to read, because both girls felt like they had a claim to the dog but neither wanted to give her up.
I thought by the title of the book that there would be more of a Greek mythology storyline. I loved the play Iphigenia at Aulis when I read it in school. There were some similar themes to the play, and it followed the story in an abstract way, but I wish it had more Greek mythology references.
This was a good story, though it dealt with some upsetting issues.
Thank you Blackstone Publishing for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Iphigenia runs away from her abusive home to live in a park where she thinks she can find her mother. She becomes friends with a transgender woman and a young man who has been kicked out of his home. She also takes care of a homeless dog. Her new friends help her wander through the park and try to find her mother.
There were some very difficult scenes in this book. Iphigenia was abused by her stepmother and stepbrother, and her father didn’t do anything to help. Her friend Corinne was abused by her boyfriend. There was also an upsetting scene where a woman claims to be the owner of Iphigenia’s dog. As a dog owner, it was difficult to read, because both girls felt like they had a claim to the dog but neither wanted to give her up.
I thought by the title of the book that there would be more of a Greek mythology storyline. I loved the play Iphigenia at Aulis when I read it in school. There were some similar themes to the play, and it followed the story in an abstract way, but I wish it had more Greek mythology references.
This was a good story, though it dealt with some upsetting issues.
Thank you Blackstone Publishing for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Read
March 8, 2020You have no idea how excited I have been about this 90s revival. You know, I say as I sit here typing under a brightly colored quilt in 90s baggy jeans and a graphic tee-shirt. There’s just something about revisiting my childhood that makes me happy. So OF COURSE I immediately HAD to read Iphigenia Murphy when I found out about it! I mean, a run away living in a tent in Queens? It’s just like this story was made from me (you know, I say again as I impatiently wait for more backpacking supplies to come in the mail).
Let me start off by saying I love the writing in this book! It’s brutally honest, which makes it so much more realistic. It truly feels like you’re reading about a teenager compared to all of those teenage characters who sound like mid-century poets. My only real complaint is that it took me like 30 tries before I (think) I got Iphigenia pronounced correctly. It’s a genius name, but boy what a mouthful!
This book covers some brutal topics, but they are very real issues in society. This takes me back to the honesty part I mentioned before. I find that I really love books that don’t skim around topics or try to sugar coat all of the nuances of life. This book features a diverse cast of characters that all miraculously seem to come together and show that life isn’t always the dream that you see in movies.
You can view my full review & giveaway on my blog! I post a wide range of reviews!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
Let me start off by saying I love the writing in this book! It’s brutally honest, which makes it so much more realistic. It truly feels like you’re reading about a teenager compared to all of those teenage characters who sound like mid-century poets. My only real complaint is that it took me like 30 tries before I (think) I got Iphigenia pronounced correctly. It’s a genius name, but boy what a mouthful!
This book covers some brutal topics, but they are very real issues in society. This takes me back to the honesty part I mentioned before. I find that I really love books that don’t skim around topics or try to sugar coat all of the nuances of life. This book features a diverse cast of characters that all miraculously seem to come together and show that life isn’t always the dream that you see in movies.
You can view my full review & giveaway on my blog! I post a wide range of reviews!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
March 23, 2020
I was gifted a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I am mostly a fantasy reader since contemporaries usually don't entertain me as much. However, Iphigenia Murphy has surpassed my expectations. It is a story that brings up realistic life issues into the spotlight and how friendship is extremely important to keep us in check.
This book has definitely crushed my heart, I could not go through one fifth of the hardships that Iphigenia encounters. Running away from home is the hardest decision of all and Iphigenia was brave enough to do it when she saw she had no other chances, she chased her freedom.
The secondary characters bright light into the darkness that is Iphigenia's life. I love how diverse the characters are (TRANS, other races, even animal companions) and how well we get to know them throughout the story. Angel is definitely my favorite character.
I am mostly a fantasy reader since contemporaries usually don't entertain me as much. However, Iphigenia Murphy has surpassed my expectations. It is a story that brings up realistic life issues into the spotlight and how friendship is extremely important to keep us in check.
This book has definitely crushed my heart, I could not go through one fifth of the hardships that Iphigenia encounters. Running away from home is the hardest decision of all and Iphigenia was brave enough to do it when she saw she had no other chances, she chased her freedom.
The secondary characters bright light into the darkness that is Iphigenia's life. I love how diverse the characters are (TRANS, other races, even animal companions) and how well we get to know them throughout the story. Angel is definitely my favorite character.
December 31, 2020
Iphigenia Murphy is one of those books that sticks with you throughout your whole life. This YA novel is full of heartache, sadness, and above all else, hope.
The story was incredibly hard to read. I was in tears throughout as I felt Iffy’s pain. When Corrine came along, then Ann and Anthony, I couldn’t help but sigh with relief. I held out hope that life would turn out okay for Iffy.
My only complaint is that I wanted to know what happened to Iffy, further than the Epilogue took me. I need to know in my soul that she really is okay. Iffy lives inside me now and I will never be able to let her go.
Thank you, Sara, for giving me this delightful girl who makes me believe that the world can turn out okay in the end.
I was provided with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
The story was incredibly hard to read. I was in tears throughout as I felt Iffy’s pain. When Corrine came along, then Ann and Anthony, I couldn’t help but sigh with relief. I held out hope that life would turn out okay for Iffy.
My only complaint is that I wanted to know what happened to Iffy, further than the Epilogue took me. I need to know in my soul that she really is okay. Iffy lives inside me now and I will never be able to let her go.
Thank you, Sara, for giving me this delightful girl who makes me believe that the world can turn out okay in the end.
I was provided with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
April 18, 2020
Oh my god....
This book, this book was freaking amazing !
I cried, I laughed , I got scared...
A mix of emotions all the time, it was a pleasure to read this book !
Iphigenia's story was so painful but very real to a some of us.
She was a warrior, Corinne was the best friend she deserved !
Angel was truly an angel and even Ann helped out.
I was so scared about Anthony, always expecting him to screw up ...
I just feel sad that we don't get a final closure, as her life in like 3 years later or something like that.
But anyway I loved this one, definitely one of my favourite books of 2020!
4.5⭐
This book, this book was freaking amazing !
I cried, I laughed , I got scared...
A mix of emotions all the time, it was a pleasure to read this book !
Iphigenia's story was so painful but very real to a some of us.
She was a warrior, Corinne was the best friend she deserved !
Angel was truly an angel and even Ann helped out.
I was so scared about Anthony, always expecting him to screw up ...
I just feel sad that we don't get a final closure, as her life in like 3 years later or something like that.
But anyway I loved this one, definitely one of my favourite books of 2020!
4.5⭐
July 22, 2020
I absolutely loved this book! The character development, the subject matter, the ease with which this story was written. I felt as though I was right there in the park with Iffy, experiencing the danger of living in an unprotected environment in one moment, and the joys of loving people and a pet who understand you in the next moment.
As much as I love reading, I have been unable to finish a book while sheltering at home during Covid-19. That is until I started this book. It is so well-written that it drew me in immediately! And now I’m ready for a sequel. :)
As much as I love reading, I have been unable to finish a book while sheltering at home during Covid-19. That is until I started this book. It is so well-written that it drew me in immediately! And now I’m ready for a sequel. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2020
To begin with, I usually put a book down after 30 or 40 pages if it doesn’t grip me by then. . This novel is so poignant and sad in parts, but the heroine, Iffy is one of many unusual kids who takes life on and meets some wonderful characters and shows that there are some very wonderful humans out there in the midst of chaos and disappointment. There are silver linings in a sometimes very dim world.
July 7, 2020
A great YA novel. After being abused by her stepbrother, a young girl runs away from home and becomes homeless to search for her mother. There are parts that are tough to read, but you see that the tough parts are what makes the character who she is. She’s not afraid to be by herself—it’s the people that mess with her that have to be afraid. I found myself wanting to cheer for her towards the end of the book!!
January 13, 2021
I love this book - a journey into a teenager's tough decisions. The author does such a good job of getting inside Iphigenia's head, we see how her choices make total sense in her world. She's a child surviving, finding grace and love, in the middle of an awful situation. There are heartbreaking (and heartwarming) scenes in here that could easily go off track in the hands of less skilled writer, but Hosey never forces the sentimentality. Great book.
March 27, 2020
I loved this book. It is a tough subject handled with so much compassion. Not since Katniss Everdeen from the Hunger Games has there been a heroine with the kind of grit, courage and resilience that we experience in Iphigenia Murphy. And her relationship with her dog Angel is one I will always remember. Highly recommend for young adults of all ages.
June 20, 2020
I really enjoyed this book!’
I really enjoyed reading this book. While it was heartbreaking at times, it was a pleasant read that evoked compassion and anger while really rooting for the main character “iffy”. Very interesting story line and probably much more realistic in NYC than we’d like to believe!
I really enjoyed reading this book. While it was heartbreaking at times, it was a pleasant read that evoked compassion and anger while really rooting for the main character “iffy”. Very interesting story line and probably much more realistic in NYC than we’d like to believe!
August 21, 2020
Heartbreaking but beautiful story of survival under the worst circumstances. Loved Iffy’s character and the other strong characters she meets on her journey. This story makes you reflect on important issues like abuse, homeless and abandonment. Truly enjoyed this touching novel . Excellent writing by Sara Hosey!
October 17, 2021
TW: Abuse (emotional, physical and sexual), stalking, suicide ideation, homelessness,
*SPOILER TW*
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Incestuous rape, pregnancy, abortion
A deep heartache of a book, one that deals with many traumas of beautifully broken people. No punches are pulled, but my heart felt both warm and comforted reading it.
*SPOILER TW*
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Incestuous rape, pregnancy, abortion
A deep heartache of a book, one that deals with many traumas of beautifully broken people. No punches are pulled, but my heart felt both warm and comforted reading it.
February 15, 2022
Iffy is a teen who can no longer stand living at home so she plans on living at the local park until she can find her mom. Life is quite tragic for anyone without a home or family but especially for a teenager. Thankfully, she finds solace in a dog she names "Angel" and the kindness of people she meets on her journey. This was a tough story to read but uplifting at the same time.
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