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Girl on the Brink
*****Best of YA-Suspense magazine*****
The summer before senior year, 17-year-old Chloe starts an internship as a reporter at a local newspaper. While on assignment, she meets Kieran, a quirky aspiring actor. Chloe becomes smitten with Kieran’s charisma and his ability to soothe her soul, torn over her parents’ impending divorce. But as their bond deepens, Kieran becomes smothering and flies into terrifying rages. He confides in Chloe that he suffered a traumatic childhood, and Chloe is moved to help him. If only he could be healed, she thinks, their relationship would be perfect. But her efforts backfire, and Kieran turns violent. Chloe breaks up with him, but Kieran pursues her relentlessly to make up. Chloe must make the heartrending choice between saving herself or saving Kieran, until Kieran’s mission of remorse turns into a quest for revenge.
The summer before senior year, 17-year-old Chloe starts an internship as a reporter at a local newspaper. While on assignment, she meets Kieran, a quirky aspiring actor. Chloe becomes smitten with Kieran’s charisma and his ability to soothe her soul, torn over her parents’ impending divorce. But as their bond deepens, Kieran becomes smothering and flies into terrifying rages. He confides in Chloe that he suffered a traumatic childhood, and Chloe is moved to help him. If only he could be healed, she thinks, their relationship would be perfect. But her efforts backfire, and Kieran turns violent. Chloe breaks up with him, but Kieran pursues her relentlessly to make up. Chloe must make the heartrending choice between saving herself or saving Kieran, until Kieran’s mission of remorse turns into a quest for revenge.
258 pages, ebook
First published August 8, 2016
7 people are currently reading
1384 people want to read
About the author
Christina Hoag
58 books173 followersChristina Hoag was a former journalist for the Miami Herald and the Associated Press who's had her laptop searched by Colombian guerrillas and phone tapped in Venezuela, suspected of drug trafficking in Guyana, hid under a car to evade Guatemalan soldiers, an d posed as a nun to get inside a Caracas jail. She's interviewed gang members, bank robbers, gunmen, thieves and thugs in prisons, shantytowns and slums, not to forget billionaires and presidents, some of whom fall into the previous categories. Now she writes about such characters in her fiction.
Her debut novel "Skin of Tattoos," a noir crime novel, was a finalist for the 2017 Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Award for Suspense. Her YA thriller "Girl on the Brink" was named Suspense Magazine’s Best of 2016 YA.
She also writes nonfiction, co-authoring Peace in the Hood: Working with Gang Members to End the Violence (Turner Publishing, 2014), a groundbreaking book on violence intervention used in several universities.
She has had numerous short stories, creative nonfiction essays and poems published in literary journals including Shooter (UK), San Antonio Review, Round Table Literary Journal, Santa Barbara Literary Journal and Lunch Ticket, and won Honorable Mentions for essay and short story in the International Human Rights Arts Festival’s Literary Justice 2020 contest and for essay and novel excerpt in the Soul-Making Keats Writing Competition 2020.
Fluent in Spanish and French, Christina grew up as an expat around the world. She lives in Los Angeles where she has taught creative writing at a maximum-security prison and to at-risk teen girls in South and East Los Angeles. She
A regular speaker at writing conferences and groups, bookstores and libraries, she volunteers as a trained domestic violence support group facilitator and is a public speaker about DV.
Her debut novel "Skin of Tattoos," a noir crime novel, was a finalist for the 2017 Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Award for Suspense. Her YA thriller "Girl on the Brink" was named Suspense Magazine’s Best of 2016 YA.
She also writes nonfiction, co-authoring Peace in the Hood: Working with Gang Members to End the Violence (Turner Publishing, 2014), a groundbreaking book on violence intervention used in several universities.
She has had numerous short stories, creative nonfiction essays and poems published in literary journals including Shooter (UK), San Antonio Review, Round Table Literary Journal, Santa Barbara Literary Journal and Lunch Ticket, and won Honorable Mentions for essay and short story in the International Human Rights Arts Festival’s Literary Justice 2020 contest and for essay and novel excerpt in the Soul-Making Keats Writing Competition 2020.
Fluent in Spanish and French, Christina grew up as an expat around the world. She lives in Los Angeles where she has taught creative writing at a maximum-security prison and to at-risk teen girls in South and East Los Angeles. She
A regular speaker at writing conferences and groups, bookstores and libraries, she volunteers as a trained domestic violence support group facilitator and is a public speaker about DV.
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January 10, 2019
My original Girl on the Brink audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
17-year-old Chloe is about to start her last year at high school when she meets charming Kieran. Initially, Kieran seems perfect boyfriend material. Unlike other boys Chloe has come across, Kieran doesn’t just want sex, he is very attentive and fun to be with. He actually listens to Chloe when she needs to talk about her difficult time at home. Her parents have recently separated and Chloe’s Mum is not coping well.
I have listened to numerous novels with a domestic abuse theme. What made Girl on the Brink stand out from the crowd for me personally was the age of the main character. This is technically a young adult novel, but it should appeal to a much wider audience. There is so much potential for discussion here, it would be a great book to be shared and talked about between parents and teenagers, in youth groups etc.
While some readers/listeners will soon pick up on the tell-tale signs of where Chloe and Kieran’s relationship starts to turn sour, the story is ideal for introducing less experienced audiences to this difficult subject matter in a meaningful but very enjoyable way. Chloe is a brilliantly drawn character and it is easy to feel for her, but what made this really outstanding for me, is the fact that Christina Hoag’s characterization of Kieran made me feel all sorts of emotions, too. I was there with Chloe when she tried desperately to help Kieran. The push and pull between needing to save herself and wanting to save Kieran was done so well and really emotional.
Christina Hoag has evidently done extensive research into the topic. The novel is well written, the story is completely believable, characters and dialog felt realistic, and the cycle of abuse is portrayed frightfully accurately.
Possible spoiler: Unlike other domestic abuse stories I have read, this one doesn’t end when Chloe “frees herself”. I liked that it went further into the aftermath of it all. The support group meeting certainly provided a lot more information about domestic abuse without ever coming across as being preachy. My only minor niggle: while I realize that most domestic abuse is targeted at women, it would have been nice to acknowledge, within the support group meeting perhaps, that men can also be victims of domestic abuse.
The narration by Angela Rose Marsi was excellent. She had a young sounding voice that suited Chloe’s first-person perspective very well, but her male voices were equally great and very believable. There were no issues with the production of the audio.
This is the sort of novel that should be widely available in educational establishments, libraries, and homes across the country. Highly recommended!
Audiobook provided for review by the audiobookreviewer.com
17-year-old Chloe is about to start her last year at high school when she meets charming Kieran. Initially, Kieran seems perfect boyfriend material. Unlike other boys Chloe has come across, Kieran doesn’t just want sex, he is very attentive and fun to be with. He actually listens to Chloe when she needs to talk about her difficult time at home. Her parents have recently separated and Chloe’s Mum is not coping well.
I have listened to numerous novels with a domestic abuse theme. What made Girl on the Brink stand out from the crowd for me personally was the age of the main character. This is technically a young adult novel, but it should appeal to a much wider audience. There is so much potential for discussion here, it would be a great book to be shared and talked about between parents and teenagers, in youth groups etc.
While some readers/listeners will soon pick up on the tell-tale signs of where Chloe and Kieran’s relationship starts to turn sour, the story is ideal for introducing less experienced audiences to this difficult subject matter in a meaningful but very enjoyable way. Chloe is a brilliantly drawn character and it is easy to feel for her, but what made this really outstanding for me, is the fact that Christina Hoag’s characterization of Kieran made me feel all sorts of emotions, too. I was there with Chloe when she tried desperately to help Kieran. The push and pull between needing to save herself and wanting to save Kieran was done so well and really emotional.
Christina Hoag has evidently done extensive research into the topic. The novel is well written, the story is completely believable, characters and dialog felt realistic, and the cycle of abuse is portrayed frightfully accurately.
Possible spoiler: Unlike other domestic abuse stories I have read, this one doesn’t end when Chloe “frees herself”. I liked that it went further into the aftermath of it all. The support group meeting certainly provided a lot more information about domestic abuse without ever coming across as being preachy. My only minor niggle: while I realize that most domestic abuse is targeted at women, it would have been nice to acknowledge, within the support group meeting perhaps, that men can also be victims of domestic abuse.
The narration by Angela Rose Marsi was excellent. She had a young sounding voice that suited Chloe’s first-person perspective very well, but her male voices were equally great and very believable. There were no issues with the production of the audio.
This is the sort of novel that should be widely available in educational establishments, libraries, and homes across the country. Highly recommended!
Audiobook provided for review by the audiobookreviewer.com
December 11, 2018
Quick review for a quick read. I feel awful that this book managed to slip past my radar considering it was published back in 2016, but I'm very glad I had the chance to read it now. "Girl on the Brink" is very much a true-to-life, brutally honest story of a young woman coming to terms with an abusive relationship. Chloe's understandably in a rough place in the beginning of this novel - her parents are divorcing, her mother's going through emotional upheavals that occur in cycles of depression - essentially there are pieces of Chloe's life that are falling apart. It makes sense that when Kieran comes into Chloe's life, she's looking for a change of pace from all the other bad relationships she's been through. Kieran seems to give Chloe attention and apt praise, though it quickly becomes clear that Kieran's affections are a bit...too much. At first Chloe thinks this is just how Kieran is, until she realizes his quick turns of mood and ability to twist the truth into raging fits that put her directly in his path of rage. It becomes a matter of whether or not she can help him or get as far away from him as humanly possible.
I rooted for Chloe this entire novel, and I was glad to see her progression despite all the horrible and harrowing events she endures. I thought the primary and secondary characters were given apt time to develop and fleshing out throughout the events of the story. The tension was well placed and the pacing moved very well - there wasn't a moment where I put down this book at all - it had me so invested in Chloe's story and wanting her - as well as her family and friends - to find better places given the events of the novel. Overall, I really liked "Girl on the Brink" and thought it was a great story not only for its respective audience, but shedding light and truth on abusive relationships in a way that's full of empathy and reckoning.
Overall score: 4.5/5 stars.
I rooted for Chloe this entire novel, and I was glad to see her progression despite all the horrible and harrowing events she endures. I thought the primary and secondary characters were given apt time to develop and fleshing out throughout the events of the story. The tension was well placed and the pacing moved very well - there wasn't a moment where I put down this book at all - it had me so invested in Chloe's story and wanting her - as well as her family and friends - to find better places given the events of the novel. Overall, I really liked "Girl on the Brink" and thought it was a great story not only for its respective audience, but shedding light and truth on abusive relationships in a way that's full of empathy and reckoning.
Overall score: 4.5/5 stars.
April 7, 2021
The book I would give my teen self.
If I could go back in time and give one book to my teen self this would be the one. I can see so much of my younger self in Chloe and her story. I don't normally read YA as the themes generally don't interest me however I'm so glad I gave this book a chance. It was the first story in a long time that I couldn't put down.
Spoilers from here on:
This is one of the realest and most personal portrayals of domestic abuse I've ever come across. I really empathized with Chloe and how she felt constantly walking on eggshells. I was really able to understand her motivation to keep the peace. I felt like some of the characters could have been fleshed out a little more but I think it lends itself well to how Kieran tries to cut Chloe off from her friends and family.
I really think this is a fantastic book. If you're going to give one book to a young woman in your life please make it this one.
If I could go back in time and give one book to my teen self this would be the one. I can see so much of my younger self in Chloe and her story. I don't normally read YA as the themes generally don't interest me however I'm so glad I gave this book a chance. It was the first story in a long time that I couldn't put down.
Spoilers from here on:
This is one of the realest and most personal portrayals of domestic abuse I've ever come across. I really empathized with Chloe and how she felt constantly walking on eggshells. I was really able to understand her motivation to keep the peace. I felt like some of the characters could have been fleshed out a little more but I think it lends itself well to how Kieran tries to cut Chloe off from her friends and family.
I really think this is a fantastic book. If you're going to give one book to a young woman in your life please make it this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2016
The summer before senior year, 17-year-old Chloe starts an internship as a reporter at a local newspaper. While on assignment, she meets Kieran, a quirky aspiring actor. Chloe becomes smitten with Kieran’s charisma and his ability to soothe her soul, torn over her parents’ impending divorce. But as their bond deepens, Kieran becomes smothering and flies into terrifying rages. He confides in Chloe that he suffered a traumatic childhood, and Chloe is moved to help him. If only he could be healed, she thinks, their relationship would be perfect. But her efforts backfire and Kieran becomes violent. Chloe breaks up with him, but Kieran pursues her relentlessly to make up. Chloe must make the heartrending choice between saving herself or saving Kieran, until Kieran’s mission of remorse turns into a quest for revenge.
Rating: 4.5/5 Penguins
Quick Reasons: trigger warning--physical abuse, emotional abuse, violence; this was hard to read, but so cathartic at the same time; my life in book form!; emotional, harrowing, heart-wrenching read; poignant and powerful; all girls/women need to read this book
Huge thanks to Christina Hoag, Fire & Ice Young Adult Books, and YA Bound Book Tours for sending me a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review! This in no way altered my read of or opinions on this book.
When things happen like your parents splitting up, it kind of shakes your whole world, turns it upside down. One minute everything's so normal, it's boring. The next, well, life just crumbles like a stale brownie. And you can't put crumbs back into a brownie.
Okay, penguins--it's time for a tiny confession. Heading into this read, I was very worried. You see... I am a domestic abuse survivor. He never got the chance to take it farther than emotional and psychological abuse, but the scars--invisible as they may be--are very, very much real. I knew, when I read the synopsis for this book, that that was EXACTLY what was waiting for me with this read. But something about this book called to me, regardless. I decided to take a chance, triggering content be derned. (And yes, I meant to say derned!)
Christina Hoag took a very important, very challenging subject...and made it relatable. Personable. REAL. I know the statistics, penguins--so, so many women have faced, are facing, or will in the future face this exact situation. The problem is, hardly none of us actively talk about our experiences--it's been drilled into us to keep silent, to keep secret, to keep hidden. Christina Hoag knew that, I believe--and used that to weave an emotionally harrowing, daunting story of first love...and the many ways it can go wrong or destroy the soul.
"What?" he says.
"You're like a marble. Every time you roll, I see a different color."
What I'm trying to say is, this book is super important, and I feel every girl/woman needs to read it. There is emotional turmoil. There are some very difficult scenes to read and digest. But there's also a raw, unbridled honesty laced into every word--and, at the end, something I feel we ALL need to hear more of: the reminder that we can get through it, that we can stand tall, that we deserve better. That we are loved. The characters are complex and well-written; the prose is subtly poetic and altogether beautiful. The journey is heart-wrenching, and terrifying, and hits home so hard--but it's so important, all the same.
I have so much admiration for Christina Hoag, and this book. She achieved something that many struggle with: a fine mixture of blunt honesty and raw sensitivity, a way to reach out of the pages and into readers' very souls. I recommend this to lovers of contemporary fiction, poetic and poignant prose, and heart-wrenching journeys...but please, if you're easily triggered by abuse, be careful going into this read. I will be keeping an eye out for future Christina Hoag novels with bated breath (I know, this is perhaps a weird choice of words following such a heavy read, but I'm going with it); I cannot wait to see what she tackles next.
May 26, 2020
Chloe is having a hard time at home so when she meets Kieran who is older and puts some things in to perspective. She trusts him, and things are great until they aren’t. Its interesting to see how fast it can change without you seeing or realizing that your almost dependent on that person.
And they were so young. I wasn’t a fan of Kieran’s from the get go and I went in completely blind other than the blurb. I found him to be very manipulative she justifies some of his behavior I think because she wants attention and he gives it to her. And that can be a hard trap to get out of.
He wanted her all to himself, he never wanted to meet or hang out with her friends. Huge red flags but when you’re a teenager and life at home isn’t easy you turn to whoever will give you what you need.
It was a good lesson book.
I love the voice of Marian, Chloe’s boss at the paper. The narrator did a good job bringing depth to these characters.
And they were so young. I wasn’t a fan of Kieran’s from the get go and I went in completely blind other than the blurb. I found him to be very manipulative she justifies some of his behavior I think because she wants attention and he gives it to her. And that can be a hard trap to get out of.
He wanted her all to himself, he never wanted to meet or hang out with her friends. Huge red flags but when you’re a teenager and life at home isn’t easy you turn to whoever will give you what you need.
It was a good lesson book.
I love the voice of Marian, Chloe’s boss at the paper. The narrator did a good job bringing depth to these characters.
June 11, 2021
Mi eterno drama de Goodreads con las estrellas continúa. Quería darle las 4.5, pero no me dejan las medias estrellas, así que lo dejaré así. ¿Será mi lectura favorita de junio? Es posible, ya lo veremos cuando haga la lista de favoritos por mes.
Reseña rápida:
+ Un libro para reflexionar.
+ Personajes realistas.
+ Estilo ligero y fácil de leer.
+ No explota el drama o el morbo.
Reseña:
Esta novela llegó a mí por parte de la autora que contactó conmigo para colaborar y, cuándo lo hizo, fui a buscar más información a internet. Y la verdad es que pintaba muy bien por lo que me decidí a leerlo y he de decir que las expectativas las ha cumplido. La novela está inspirada en su propia historia, algo que le da más peso. Y, aunque ella ya aclara que los sucesos y personajes son ficticios, mucho de lo que ocurre y algunas conversaciones son similares a lo que ella vivió.
Su intención al hacer la novela, y al ponerla con una protagonista adolescente, era ayudar a las jóvenes a ser conscientes y a entender cómo es una relación tóxica y cómo salir de ella. Un punto muy interesante es que al final tiene una lista de preguntas para reflexionar sobre el libro y que serían perfectas para organizar lecturas conjuntas o para utilizarlas en clase en los institutos, ya que opino que es una novela que sería interesante promoverla en la escuela.
Y, comenzando con la reseña realmente, voy a señalar esto de nuevo: es un libro para reflexionar. No solo desde el papel de Chloe, la protagonista, sino también del de sus amistades y familia. ¿Cómo te das cuenta de que tu relación se ha vuelto tóxica? ¿Cómo reaccionarías cuando una amiga empieza a pasar de ti por estar con el novio? ¿Si tu hija parece feliz con su pareja, pero está en una relación violenta, le haces el caso suficiente? El libro nunca culpa a la victima e incluso en los capítulos finales hay mucho trabajo de cómo lidiar con estas situaciones. Además, la situación de ella en casa también es un tema importante con el que muchos pueden sentirse identificados.
Ya he dicho que puedes aprender de varios personajes. Así que ahora toca destacar que son personajes complejos, reales. Aunque sea todo desde el punto de vista de Chloe, tenemos a las amigas, a la madre, en menor medida al padre, hermano y su jefa, y, sobre todo, al novio. Para mí Chloe, su madre y Kieran, el novio, son los personajes más desarrollados en la historia. Nadie es perfecto ni exagerado en la historia, son personas reales, tienen interacciones como las que puedes tener o tenías con tus amigas cuando estabas en el instituto. Es fácil verse reflejado en algunos de sus momentos.
Un punto que ayudará mucho a ser leído es que utiliza un estilo ligero. Es muy fácil de leer, no se hace denso, ni sobreabundan las descripciones. Tiene reflexiones interiores de la protagonistas, pero sobre todo acciones que hacen que todo se mueva muy rápido. Y, en este punto, tengo que alabar el inicio. Con un flashforward (un salto adelante en la historia) nos da una escena de tensión que te engancha de golpe a la novela, para luego retroceder al pasado y ver cómo se conocen Kieran y Chloe por primera vez. Una decisión muy acertada que hizo que me metiera en la historia de lleno y que te adelantaba qué iba a pasar y, a partir de ello, ibas a estar analizando sus interacciones desde esa perspectiva.
A mí me gustan los new adult dramáticos (que además parece ser el grupo de contemporánea que más adora el drama), pero aquí no se deja llevar por explotarte la lágrima. Trata el tema de la violencia doméstica con cuidado y respeto y es perfecto. No busca destrozarte y dejarte sollozando, sino hacer que seas consciente de una realidad de hoy en día.
¿Lo recomendaría? Sí, creo que es una lectura necesaria para adolescentes e, incluso, algunos adultos y no solo para mujeres. Sinceramente, me parece que sería bueno que la recomendaran en los institutos.
Por último, quiero destacar este momento:
Reseña rápida:
+ Un libro para reflexionar.
+ Personajes realistas.
+ Estilo ligero y fácil de leer.
+ No explota el drama o el morbo.
Reseña:
Esta novela llegó a mí por parte de la autora que contactó conmigo para colaborar y, cuándo lo hizo, fui a buscar más información a internet. Y la verdad es que pintaba muy bien por lo que me decidí a leerlo y he de decir que las expectativas las ha cumplido. La novela está inspirada en su propia historia, algo que le da más peso. Y, aunque ella ya aclara que los sucesos y personajes son ficticios, mucho de lo que ocurre y algunas conversaciones son similares a lo que ella vivió.
Su intención al hacer la novela, y al ponerla con una protagonista adolescente, era ayudar a las jóvenes a ser conscientes y a entender cómo es una relación tóxica y cómo salir de ella. Un punto muy interesante es que al final tiene una lista de preguntas para reflexionar sobre el libro y que serían perfectas para organizar lecturas conjuntas o para utilizarlas en clase en los institutos, ya que opino que es una novela que sería interesante promoverla en la escuela.
Y, comenzando con la reseña realmente, voy a señalar esto de nuevo: es un libro para reflexionar. No solo desde el papel de Chloe, la protagonista, sino también del de sus amistades y familia. ¿Cómo te das cuenta de que tu relación se ha vuelto tóxica? ¿Cómo reaccionarías cuando una amiga empieza a pasar de ti por estar con el novio? ¿Si tu hija parece feliz con su pareja, pero está en una relación violenta, le haces el caso suficiente? El libro nunca culpa a la victima e incluso en los capítulos finales hay mucho trabajo de cómo lidiar con estas situaciones. Además, la situación de ella en casa también es un tema importante con el que muchos pueden sentirse identificados.
Ya he dicho que puedes aprender de varios personajes. Así que ahora toca destacar que son personajes complejos, reales. Aunque sea todo desde el punto de vista de Chloe, tenemos a las amigas, a la madre, en menor medida al padre, hermano y su jefa, y, sobre todo, al novio. Para mí Chloe, su madre y Kieran, el novio, son los personajes más desarrollados en la historia. Nadie es perfecto ni exagerado en la historia, son personas reales, tienen interacciones como las que puedes tener o tenías con tus amigas cuando estabas en el instituto. Es fácil verse reflejado en algunos de sus momentos.
Un punto que ayudará mucho a ser leído es que utiliza un estilo ligero. Es muy fácil de leer, no se hace denso, ni sobreabundan las descripciones. Tiene reflexiones interiores de la protagonistas, pero sobre todo acciones que hacen que todo se mueva muy rápido. Y, en este punto, tengo que alabar el inicio. Con un flashforward (un salto adelante en la historia) nos da una escena de tensión que te engancha de golpe a la novela, para luego retroceder al pasado y ver cómo se conocen Kieran y Chloe por primera vez. Una decisión muy acertada que hizo que me metiera en la historia de lleno y que te adelantaba qué iba a pasar y, a partir de ello, ibas a estar analizando sus interacciones desde esa perspectiva.
A mí me gustan los new adult dramáticos (que además parece ser el grupo de contemporánea que más adora el drama), pero aquí no se deja llevar por explotarte la lágrima. Trata el tema de la violencia doméstica con cuidado y respeto y es perfecto. No busca destrozarte y dejarte sollozando, sino hacer que seas consciente de una realidad de hoy en día.
¿Lo recomendaría? Sí, creo que es una lectura necesaria para adolescentes e, incluso, algunos adultos y no solo para mujeres. Sinceramente, me parece que sería bueno que la recomendaran en los institutos.
Por último, quiero destacar este momento:
"Cuando alguien es abusivo contigo de cualquier manera, ya sea un empujón o acecho, ve a la policía inmediatamente. Haz una denuncia, inicia un rastro de papel sobre ellos. No sientas pena por ellos y no te sientas avergonzada. Es importante que te protejas porque si algo serio sucede, tendrás evidencia que te respalde y podremos actuar en base a ella"
December 20, 2016
Chloe can't believe her luck when she gets the opportunity to spend the summer as an intern at the local newspaper. On her first assignment she meets Kieran. Kieran works at a garden center, but wants to be an actor. When he asks her out Chloe immediately says yes. Things at home are far from peaceful for Chloe and she could use a nice distraction. Her father has left and her mother isn't coping well, so Chloe has a lot of responsibilities. Kieran listens to Chloe's problems and he's attentive and kind to her. They fall in love quickly and soon they are inseparable.
Kieran tells Chloe about his past. His childhood was difficult and Chloe's heart aches for him. Because of this she initially accepts his mood swings. Kieran can become jealous and abusive and surprises Chloe with his behavior over and over again. Chloe loves him though, so she tries to be supportive and she wants to make things better for him. Meanwhile she's about to lose everything she holds dear. What's more important, being there for Kieran because he needs her or being a normal happy high school student again? And what would happen if Chloe would leave Kieran, can she handle the consequences or is it better to stay?
Girl on the Brink is a beautiful, shocking story. At first Chloe thinks she's found the perfect boyfriend. Kieran isn't like any boy she's ever met. He's kind, he listens to what she has to say and he seems to be genuinely interested in Chloe's life. He also gives her plenty of advice. Chloe thinks she's found the perfect boyfriend. When Kieran shows her his true nature Chloe tries to help him because of his past. She's sweet and caring and I had tears in my eyes when I read her story. Kieran is intense, he's suffocating and he's jealous. He uses his concern and affection to show Chloe that he's such a good and loving boyfriend, while she's the one with shortcomings. At first she believes him, which was heartbreaking to read. Christina Hoag has perfectly captured how abusive relationships start and how gradually the victim is being lured into the trap.
Girl on the Brink is impressive and very well written. Christina Hoag has made her story gripping and filled with emotion. I loved Chloe from the start. She's smart, she's capable and she has a bright future ahead of her. She doesn't have an easy time and she's vulnerable, which is why it's so easy for Kieran to get close. Christina Hoag shows her readers all the signs of (impending) abuse. I loved the way she intertwines information with a great story and she's writing about warning signals in a fantastic way. Girl on the Brink is a story about an incredibly important topic and the writing is amazing. It's a book that should be read by as many people as possible.
Kieran tells Chloe about his past. His childhood was difficult and Chloe's heart aches for him. Because of this she initially accepts his mood swings. Kieran can become jealous and abusive and surprises Chloe with his behavior over and over again. Chloe loves him though, so she tries to be supportive and she wants to make things better for him. Meanwhile she's about to lose everything she holds dear. What's more important, being there for Kieran because he needs her or being a normal happy high school student again? And what would happen if Chloe would leave Kieran, can she handle the consequences or is it better to stay?
Girl on the Brink is a beautiful, shocking story. At first Chloe thinks she's found the perfect boyfriend. Kieran isn't like any boy she's ever met. He's kind, he listens to what she has to say and he seems to be genuinely interested in Chloe's life. He also gives her plenty of advice. Chloe thinks she's found the perfect boyfriend. When Kieran shows her his true nature Chloe tries to help him because of his past. She's sweet and caring and I had tears in my eyes when I read her story. Kieran is intense, he's suffocating and he's jealous. He uses his concern and affection to show Chloe that he's such a good and loving boyfriend, while she's the one with shortcomings. At first she believes him, which was heartbreaking to read. Christina Hoag has perfectly captured how abusive relationships start and how gradually the victim is being lured into the trap.
Girl on the Brink is impressive and very well written. Christina Hoag has made her story gripping and filled with emotion. I loved Chloe from the start. She's smart, she's capable and she has a bright future ahead of her. She doesn't have an easy time and she's vulnerable, which is why it's so easy for Kieran to get close. Christina Hoag shows her readers all the signs of (impending) abuse. I loved the way she intertwines information with a great story and she's writing about warning signals in a fantastic way. Girl on the Brink is a story about an incredibly important topic and the writing is amazing. It's a book that should be read by as many people as possible.
August 21, 2016
I was immediately drawn to Girl on the Brink by its exquisite cover which bears the legend “sometimes the one you love isn’t the one you’re meant to be with.” There is a bittersweet quality to both which draws a potential reader in. Ms. Hoag delivers a sweet and poignant tale of a first love that transforms into an abusive and controlling relationship. As a school librarian and the mother of a teenaged daughter, I have struggled with the power differentials in the literary relationships in some recent, very popular fiction. In the Twilight series, Edward and Bella share a deeply troubling relationship. As the pair grow closer together, Edward effectively places distance between Bella and her family and friends. He is very controlling. I have advised countless young girls to pay attention to the “red flags” in this relationship which make it clear that it is not an entirely healthy one. I also try to point out more empowered heroines, like Katniss Everdeen of the Hunger Games, who demands that the men in her life accept her on her own terms. As mentors to young women, we should seek to give them the skills and the knowledge to recognize an abusive relationship and then to extract themselves. Works like Girl on the Brink are important for this reason.
It is my belief that Girl on the Brink is a must have for every high school and public library. Young girls can relate to Chloe and the beauty of her love for Kieran. They are going to “save” each other. When the relationship goes horribly wrong, Chloe finds the courage and the support to extract herself from it. This story truly resonated with me in part because I was also in an abusive relationship in my first year of college. Chloe’s experience was mine, as were her words and thoughts. Hoag does a masterful job of representing the elements and experiences that are common to women in abusive relationships, regardless of age, socioeconomic status, and race. Hoag uses a sensitive and deft touch on the highly charged issue.
I was too young and uninformed to extract myself as quickly and efficiently from my abusive relationship. Chloe is stronger and more determined, but she does admit to having some doubts and longing for Kieran, even when it is clear she would never be able to survive with him.
I plan on having my daughter read this book so that we can discuss the issues it presents. The love affair draws a reader in, but the story is really about courage and the fact that even when you feel like you have no place to turn and the person who loves you most is hurting you, you are not alone.
It is my belief that Girl on the Brink is a must have for every high school and public library. Young girls can relate to Chloe and the beauty of her love for Kieran. They are going to “save” each other. When the relationship goes horribly wrong, Chloe finds the courage and the support to extract herself from it. This story truly resonated with me in part because I was also in an abusive relationship in my first year of college. Chloe’s experience was mine, as were her words and thoughts. Hoag does a masterful job of representing the elements and experiences that are common to women in abusive relationships, regardless of age, socioeconomic status, and race. Hoag uses a sensitive and deft touch on the highly charged issue.
I was too young and uninformed to extract myself as quickly and efficiently from my abusive relationship. Chloe is stronger and more determined, but she does admit to having some doubts and longing for Kieran, even when it is clear she would never be able to survive with him.
I plan on having my daughter read this book so that we can discuss the issues it presents. The love affair draws a reader in, but the story is really about courage and the fact that even when you feel like you have no place to turn and the person who loves you most is hurting you, you are not alone.
February 1, 2017
It’s books like these that make me realize how lucky Bella was that Edward didn’t turn out to be a creep underneath all that undead skin (Seriously. Just imagine the stalking potential from a guy that can watch you through your bedroom window–even if it happens to be on the top of 50-storey tower).
The main character from Christina Hoag‘s YA Suspense/Thriller, Girl on the Brink, is not so fortunate.
Meet Chloe, a level-headed 17 year-old that appears to embarking upon the summer of her dreams when she lands an internship at the local paper. Sure, things aren’t exactly peachey at home with her mom getting drunk and stoned all the time to avoid dealing with the loss of her husband. But whatevs, this girl boss has no problem cleaning up a few barf stains on the living from couch between news assignments. Then he arrives.
Kieran is handsome and older and funny and appears to absolutely adore Chloe. However, as their summer romance progresses, a darker, bitterness begins to poke through Prince Charming’s golden exterior. When Kieran’s love suddenly turns destructive Chloe must tap into her inner Diane Sawyer to survive.
I really liked how realistic this book felt. The ugly side of Kieren’s personality is revealed in tiny morsels alongside the good that made him feel very alive to me. In fact, I had a few boyfriend flashbacks while reading the novel that made him feel a little too real at times.
But by far, my fave fave part of the book was how Chloe was able to take control of the situation and kick-some ass, without having to kick any real ass in the process.
All told, this book is a must-read for all girl bosses in-training–at least the ones that plan on dating before they turn 40 (no judgement).
The main character from Christina Hoag‘s YA Suspense/Thriller, Girl on the Brink, is not so fortunate.
Meet Chloe, a level-headed 17 year-old that appears to embarking upon the summer of her dreams when she lands an internship at the local paper. Sure, things aren’t exactly peachey at home with her mom getting drunk and stoned all the time to avoid dealing with the loss of her husband. But whatevs, this girl boss has no problem cleaning up a few barf stains on the living from couch between news assignments. Then he arrives.
Kieran is handsome and older and funny and appears to absolutely adore Chloe. However, as their summer romance progresses, a darker, bitterness begins to poke through Prince Charming’s golden exterior. When Kieran’s love suddenly turns destructive Chloe must tap into her inner Diane Sawyer to survive.
I really liked how realistic this book felt. The ugly side of Kieren’s personality is revealed in tiny morsels alongside the good that made him feel very alive to me. In fact, I had a few boyfriend flashbacks while reading the novel that made him feel a little too real at times.
But by far, my fave fave part of the book was how Chloe was able to take control of the situation and kick-some ass, without having to kick any real ass in the process.
All told, this book is a must-read for all girl bosses in-training–at least the ones that plan on dating before they turn 40 (no judgement).
October 19, 2016
Girl on the Brink is a must read for all teenagers. It’s both light and dark, happy and sad. Despite red flags going up right away for me with Kieran, it’s easy to see how Chloe let the attention Kieran gives her take over her life. It’s easy to see how his attentiveness turns to obsession. Turns to emotional, and eventually physical, abuse.
This book is hard to read. It’s hard to see a nice girl like Chloe, who is already going through so much at home with her dad having moved away and her mom sunk in a deep depression. It’s no wonder she clings to the one good thing in her life, the boy who says he loves her.
Abuse is a difficult topic to tackle, especially when aimed at teens. Hoag did a wonderful job creating realistic characters, setting up the romance, and putting in all the little warnings that things weren’t as good as they seemed. I truly believe this book belongs in every high school. Too many girls go through what Chloe endured and they need to know that they are not alone and that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
I think my favorite thing about this book is that it’s not preachy. It doesn’t read like an after school special. It’s just a good teen contemporary romance… that takes a dark turn into abuse.
Disclaimer: I work for the publisher of this book and I am the cover designer, however I stand by my review and ratings 100%. I would not promote a book I didn’t believe in.
This book is hard to read. It’s hard to see a nice girl like Chloe, who is already going through so much at home with her dad having moved away and her mom sunk in a deep depression. It’s no wonder she clings to the one good thing in her life, the boy who says he loves her.
Abuse is a difficult topic to tackle, especially when aimed at teens. Hoag did a wonderful job creating realistic characters, setting up the romance, and putting in all the little warnings that things weren’t as good as they seemed. I truly believe this book belongs in every high school. Too many girls go through what Chloe endured and they need to know that they are not alone and that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
I think my favorite thing about this book is that it’s not preachy. It doesn’t read like an after school special. It’s just a good teen contemporary romance… that takes a dark turn into abuse.
Disclaimer: I work for the publisher of this book and I am the cover designer, however I stand by my review and ratings 100%. I would not promote a book I didn’t believe in.
May 19, 2017
Girl on the brink by Christina Hoag.
Sometimes the one you love isn’t the one you’re meant to be with.
The summer before senior year, Chloe starts an internship as a reporter at a local newspaper. While on assignment, she meets Kieran, a quirky aspiring actor. Chloe becomes smitten with Kieran’s charisma and his ability to soothe her soul, torn over her parents’ impending divorce. But as their bond deepens, Kieran becomes smothering and flies into terrifying rages. He confides in Chloe that he suffered a traumatic childhood, and Chloe is moved to help him. If only he could be healed, she thinks, their relationship would be perfect. But her efforts backfire, and Kieran turns violent. Chloe breaks up with him, but Kieran pursues her relentlessly to make up. Chloe must make the heartrending choice between saving herself or saving Kieran, until Kieran’s mission of remorse turns into a quest for revenge.
A good read with good characters. Little slow in places but then soon picked up and I couldn't put it put it down. 4*. Tbc on fb.
Sometimes the one you love isn’t the one you’re meant to be with.
The summer before senior year, Chloe starts an internship as a reporter at a local newspaper. While on assignment, she meets Kieran, a quirky aspiring actor. Chloe becomes smitten with Kieran’s charisma and his ability to soothe her soul, torn over her parents’ impending divorce. But as their bond deepens, Kieran becomes smothering and flies into terrifying rages. He confides in Chloe that he suffered a traumatic childhood, and Chloe is moved to help him. If only he could be healed, she thinks, their relationship would be perfect. But her efforts backfire, and Kieran turns violent. Chloe breaks up with him, but Kieran pursues her relentlessly to make up. Chloe must make the heartrending choice between saving herself or saving Kieran, until Kieran’s mission of remorse turns into a quest for revenge.
A good read with good characters. Little slow in places but then soon picked up and I couldn't put it put it down. 4*. Tbc on fb.
June 4, 2021
El young adult no es uno de mis géneros favoritos, pero es innegable que en él se está generando una literatura absolutamente necesaria, es importante ver y visibilizar que los temas que muchas veces parecen cosas de adultos, también están presentes en esa etapa tan complicada de la vida de por sí.
El libro no da concesiones, lo que cuenta lo cuenta sin florituras,de manera directa, sin esquivar temas y situaciones complejas, y es una muy buena manera de narrar este tipo de historias, el llamar a las cosas por su nombre.
Realmente recomendable,
Nota 8/10
El libro no da concesiones, lo que cuenta lo cuenta sin florituras,de manera directa, sin esquivar temas y situaciones complejas, y es una muy buena manera de narrar este tipo de historias, el llamar a las cosas por su nombre.
Realmente recomendable,
Nota 8/10
June 18, 2021
Creo que es un libro que todos debemos leer, todos podemos vivir situaciones como las que describe el libro y el leerlo nos puede ayudar a identificar las señales. La forma de describir los sucesos te hace que te sientes al filo del asiento y que quieras gritarle al personaje que salga de ahí. Es una lectura muy adictiva y que te deja una enseñanza de vida. Por favor léanlo, realmente vale la pena.
October 19, 2016
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
There is so much I want to say about this book, but where do I start…
This one was a very emotional read for me and it still hits me even as I sit here typing.
Girl on the Brink tells the story of Chloe a soon-to-be senior in high school who has a great internship at the local newspaper and thought her future couldn’t be brighter. However, that was before her parents separated, her dad moved out, and her mom started using pills and alcohol to cope with the situation. With her best friend headed off to Summer camp, Chloe is not sure who she can depend on to help her through the Summer.
Enter Kieran, a smooth-talking, wannabe-actor who makes Chloe feel like she is the most important person in the world. Chloe thinks she couldn’t have found anyone more perfect and finds herself falling in love. Sure he comes on a little strong at first and almost seems too nice, but that just means he really cares, right? Poor Chloe just doesn’t know what is in store for her.
Kieran slowly starts raising some red flags, that I, as a reader, was definitely able to spot. He starts isolating Chloe from her friends, making her dependent on him, giving her guilt trips, acting jealous, and a million other things that should have served as warnings to Chloe. However, as with many victims of abuse, Chloe doesn’t allow herself to recognize these signs until it is almost too late. I won’t say too much more so I don’t spoil it, but there were times when I just wanted to yell at these characters they frustrated me so much…but I guess that is a testament to how well the author wrote them and their story.
At the beginning of the book, things seem normal…the calm before the storm, if you will. I don’t know if it was because I was expecting something to happen because of the blurb or because the author intended for Kieran to come across in a way that just seemed like something was off, but I was so tense waiting to see what would be the turning point. When would the “perfect guy” mask fall and the charade end? Or maybe I am just cynical and look for the flaws…but in this case, I was correct. It's not long before Chloe's relationship with Kieran invades all aspects of Chloe's life and the tension begins to escalate. All of Chloe’s other relationships, her work, and even her future are eventually affected in some way by this one single relationship in her life.
To make it even sadder, Chloe truly loved Kieran. Having never witnessed or experienced domestic abuse she naively believed she could help Kieran, who claimed to be a victim of childhood abuse, get help for his problems and that it would change things...it would change Kieran. And yes, maybe Kieran did need help, but all I wanted to do was to hug Chloe and tell her that she needed to help herself first and then she could find help for him. Tell somebody!
As I alluded to above, I had a complicated relationship with the characters in this story. Occasionally I got glimpses of the strong young woman Chloe could and would be without Kieran in her life and I’d get excited, but the next thing you know she is back to being a shell of her former self and I’d be frustrated again. The author did a great job showing how an abusive relationship, physical, emotional, verbal, etc., can truly affect who you are as a person. Chloe has such growth in the book, but it is mostly toward the end of the book.
I felt so much for Chloe because she is so alone at times in this story and I realize that there are millions of Chloes out there everywhere. Chloe’s story could easily have been anyone’s story…male or female. It’s important that we recognize the signs both in our relationships and in other’s relationships so we can get help before it is too late.
I once took a self-defense class that touched on the red flags for domestic abuse in relationships and how you can recognize them. Based on Chloe’s reactions and the initial reactions of her friends to the situation, I am wondering if all teens (and adults) need to take a class because I realize that this is how some of them think. “It will never happen to me.” “He/she’s just really into you.” “What did you do to make him/her mad?” “Well, why didn’t you say anything?” “That just happens in the movies.” “He/She didn’t mean it.” These aren’t quotes from the book, but they could have been just as they are probably words that are said everyday in real life. And this just breaks my heart.
While heartbreaking, Girl on the Brink manages to portray an abusive relationship in an honest and real way without being too overly dramatic. I am so grateful for Christina Hoag for sharing this powerful story and I hope that teens and adults will read this book.
ALSO, IT IS NEVER OKAY FOR ANYONE TO PUT THEIR HANDS ON YOU WITHOUT YOUR CONSENT!
AND EMOTIONAL AND VERBAL ABUSE IS STILL ABUSE!
There is so much I want to say about this book, but where do I start…
This one was a very emotional read for me and it still hits me even as I sit here typing.
Girl on the Brink tells the story of Chloe a soon-to-be senior in high school who has a great internship at the local newspaper and thought her future couldn’t be brighter. However, that was before her parents separated, her dad moved out, and her mom started using pills and alcohol to cope with the situation. With her best friend headed off to Summer camp, Chloe is not sure who she can depend on to help her through the Summer.
Enter Kieran, a smooth-talking, wannabe-actor who makes Chloe feel like she is the most important person in the world. Chloe thinks she couldn’t have found anyone more perfect and finds herself falling in love. Sure he comes on a little strong at first and almost seems too nice, but that just means he really cares, right? Poor Chloe just doesn’t know what is in store for her.
Kieran slowly starts raising some red flags, that I, as a reader, was definitely able to spot. He starts isolating Chloe from her friends, making her dependent on him, giving her guilt trips, acting jealous, and a million other things that should have served as warnings to Chloe. However, as with many victims of abuse, Chloe doesn’t allow herself to recognize these signs until it is almost too late. I won’t say too much more so I don’t spoil it, but there were times when I just wanted to yell at these characters they frustrated me so much…but I guess that is a testament to how well the author wrote them and their story.
At the beginning of the book, things seem normal…the calm before the storm, if you will. I don’t know if it was because I was expecting something to happen because of the blurb or because the author intended for Kieran to come across in a way that just seemed like something was off, but I was so tense waiting to see what would be the turning point. When would the “perfect guy” mask fall and the charade end? Or maybe I am just cynical and look for the flaws…but in this case, I was correct. It's not long before Chloe's relationship with Kieran invades all aspects of Chloe's life and the tension begins to escalate. All of Chloe’s other relationships, her work, and even her future are eventually affected in some way by this one single relationship in her life.
To make it even sadder, Chloe truly loved Kieran. Having never witnessed or experienced domestic abuse she naively believed she could help Kieran, who claimed to be a victim of childhood abuse, get help for his problems and that it would change things...it would change Kieran. And yes, maybe Kieran did need help, but all I wanted to do was to hug Chloe and tell her that she needed to help herself first and then she could find help for him. Tell somebody!
As I alluded to above, I had a complicated relationship with the characters in this story. Occasionally I got glimpses of the strong young woman Chloe could and would be without Kieran in her life and I’d get excited, but the next thing you know she is back to being a shell of her former self and I’d be frustrated again. The author did a great job showing how an abusive relationship, physical, emotional, verbal, etc., can truly affect who you are as a person. Chloe has such growth in the book, but it is mostly toward the end of the book.
I felt so much for Chloe because she is so alone at times in this story and I realize that there are millions of Chloes out there everywhere. Chloe’s story could easily have been anyone’s story…male or female. It’s important that we recognize the signs both in our relationships and in other’s relationships so we can get help before it is too late.
I once took a self-defense class that touched on the red flags for domestic abuse in relationships and how you can recognize them. Based on Chloe’s reactions and the initial reactions of her friends to the situation, I am wondering if all teens (and adults) need to take a class because I realize that this is how some of them think. “It will never happen to me.” “He/she’s just really into you.” “What did you do to make him/her mad?” “Well, why didn’t you say anything?” “That just happens in the movies.” “He/She didn’t mean it.” These aren’t quotes from the book, but they could have been just as they are probably words that are said everyday in real life. And this just breaks my heart.
While heartbreaking, Girl on the Brink manages to portray an abusive relationship in an honest and real way without being too overly dramatic. I am so grateful for Christina Hoag for sharing this powerful story and I hope that teens and adults will read this book.
ALSO, IT IS NEVER OKAY FOR ANYONE TO PUT THEIR HANDS ON YOU WITHOUT YOUR CONSENT!
AND EMOTIONAL AND VERBAL ABUSE IS STILL ABUSE!
October 17, 2016
The 3 hours of sleep I sacrificed to finish this book was totally worth it.
5 stars
I don't actually know much about the topic of domestic abuse but I felt that this is a meaningful and empowering book on the topic.
Chloe and Kieran’s relationship seems to be perfect at first. They understand each other’s pain, do not judge the other for his/her past, they trust each other wholeheartedly (or at least Chloe does) and most importantly, they love each other. But just like how it was formed, it can crumble away just as easily.
Even though I didn’t always agree with Chloe’s choices, I couldn’t bring myself to hate her, or even dislike her in the slightest because I understood perfectly every action she took. She has finally found someone who understands her, someone who she can abide in, and she doesn’t want to let this relationship go so easily. At first, she tries to rationalise Kieran’s mood swings. “Maybe he’s just tired after a long day at work. Maybe I really am in the wrong.” When it got worse, she proactively tries to help him. “If I can fix him, then our relationship will be perfect.” I couldn’t get annoyed at her for not leaving him sooner, but rather I felt sad towards her. She desperately wants this relationship to work out, but Kieran isn’t doing anything to help.
I liked the inclusion of the neighbourhood police department. When they first appeared 80% into the book, I was apprehensive. “What are they doing here? Is this a plot twist? Is there enough time for a police investigation to pan out?” But the opposite happened. The P.D. is there to show the lack of help these victims of domestic abuse get, not just in small towns like the one depicted in Girl on the Brink, because these cases just get buried under other investigations that have deemed as ‘more important’.
Girl on the Brink is a very insightful and impactful book that I think all should read, regardless of gender. Domestic abuse is not okay, no matter what form it comes in or who is the one carrying it out. No matter what sort of troubled past your partner has had, there is absolutely no reason for him/her to abuse you and no reason for one to put up with any sort of abuse. Learn to see the signs, prevent it or get help.
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5 stars
I don't actually know much about the topic of domestic abuse but I felt that this is a meaningful and empowering book on the topic.
I love Kieran, the good Kieran, not the crazy Kieran.
But one comes with the other.
Chloe and Kieran’s relationship seems to be perfect at first. They understand each other’s pain, do not judge the other for his/her past, they trust each other wholeheartedly (or at least Chloe does) and most importantly, they love each other. But just like how it was formed, it can crumble away just as easily.
I wish I could help him. He told me he just wanted me to love him.
Love. Wholehearted, pure, simple.
“All you need is love,” like that old song goes. That’s all I can do―love Kieran.
Even though I didn’t always agree with Chloe’s choices, I couldn’t bring myself to hate her, or even dislike her in the slightest because I understood perfectly every action she took. She has finally found someone who understands her, someone who she can abide in, and she doesn’t want to let this relationship go so easily. At first, she tries to rationalise Kieran’s mood swings. “Maybe he’s just tired after a long day at work. Maybe I really am in the wrong.” When it got worse, she proactively tries to help him. “If I can fix him, then our relationship will be perfect.” I couldn’t get annoyed at her for not leaving him sooner, but rather I felt sad towards her. She desperately wants this relationship to work out, but Kieran isn’t doing anything to help.
I can’t trust him. The only thing I can do is go along
with whatever he wants so he stays calm.
I liked the inclusion of the neighbourhood police department. When they first appeared 80% into the book, I was apprehensive. “What are they doing here? Is this a plot twist? Is there enough time for a police investigation to pan out?” But the opposite happened. The P.D. is there to show the lack of help these victims of domestic abuse get, not just in small towns like the one depicted in Girl on the Brink, because these cases just get buried under other investigations that have deemed as ‘more important’.
Violence happens to people on TV, in newspapers. Not to an A student, a reporter.
But it did happen to me. I've become one of those people.
How? How did that happen?
Girl on the Brink is a very insightful and impactful book that I think all should read, regardless of gender. Domestic abuse is not okay, no matter what form it comes in or who is the one carrying it out. No matter what sort of troubled past your partner has had, there is absolutely no reason for him/her to abuse you and no reason for one to put up with any sort of abuse. Learn to see the signs, prevent it or get help.
As I drive home, I think that maybe I'll never fully get over Kieran.
You go through an emotional earthquake like that, and it's going to stay with you.
But you have to stop being afraid of it.
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October 20, 2016
Soon-to-be high school senior Chloe is a girl who's world is in flux. Her father recently moved out of their New Jersey home to live with his girlfriend in Manhattan. Her mother's depressed, alternately taking anti-anxiety meds or alcohol to cope with her sudden heartbreak. Chloe's brother is away at summer camp, as is her best friend. It's a virtually empty home, and it's unsettling. Even if her mom's there, she's withdrawn or asleep.
Chloe has an internship at her town's weekly newspaper, and she meets Kieran while out doing an interview for the paper. He's two years older and seems engaging and charming. He sympathizes about her family issues, confessing his own youthful trauma, and they bond quickly. Also, Kieran isn't like other boys who seem to only want sex. He woos her with dates and conversation, shares his grand dreams to become an actor and makes Chloe feel wanted and loved at a time where she's feeling lonely and abandoned by family.
Soon, however, Chloe begins to notice that Kieran is constantly shielding her from her friends, and he's cajoling her into doing what he wants all the time. He's attentive in a way that's becoming problematic--stalking her physically or via phone calls at work. Whenever Chloe attempts to assert herself, or her independence he's right there, convincing her how much he loves her, and how they really fit together emotionally. They are physical with each other, and Chloe believes Kieran's "truth," but it gets difficult to manage his mood swings. He's erratic, and jealous, and gets angry quickly, followed by dramatic apologies and presents.
Each time Chloe recognizes that Kieran's love for her is obsessive, he convinces her to make more and more sacrifices for his wishes. She has so few ties at this point, that his sabotage easily severs her flailing friendships. All along there's been small instances of physical abuse, beginning with intimidation and escalating into pushes, shoves and one harrowing weekend where Kieran essentially keeps Chloe prisoner in her own home.
It's then that Chloe finally reaches out. Her mother's able to be responsive, and act as an advocate, though the problems haven't ended. I liked the story, and felt like it was an important one to tell. Also, it's written in an accessible way, seeing how slowly domestic violence can creep into a relationship. Chloe is a good student, and good kid. Her family is middle class, and her friends are normal. She's an Everyday gal, who can't comprehend the danger she's in until she's literally running for help.
Part and parcel with Chloe's situation is her embarrassment that she could be dating an abuser. She often wonders how she could have been foolish enough to fall for Kieran, but she also misses the way he made her feel cherished and loved. He's two people in her mind: Sweet Kieran and Mean Kieran, which is a common experience for abuse victims. There's a lot of honest self-reflection in the story, and guides the reader to understand the underpinning signs of abuse, and emotional manipulation. Chloe's lucky that she was able to get help when she did, but she makes further (common) mistakes in how she shuts Kieran down. People wonder why women don't report abuse, or why they allow their abusers to return--some of this complicated cycle is very plainly demonstrated in the book, and that's a powerful object lesson for younger readers, in particular.
Chloe has an internship at her town's weekly newspaper, and she meets Kieran while out doing an interview for the paper. He's two years older and seems engaging and charming. He sympathizes about her family issues, confessing his own youthful trauma, and they bond quickly. Also, Kieran isn't like other boys who seem to only want sex. He woos her with dates and conversation, shares his grand dreams to become an actor and makes Chloe feel wanted and loved at a time where she's feeling lonely and abandoned by family.
Soon, however, Chloe begins to notice that Kieran is constantly shielding her from her friends, and he's cajoling her into doing what he wants all the time. He's attentive in a way that's becoming problematic--stalking her physically or via phone calls at work. Whenever Chloe attempts to assert herself, or her independence he's right there, convincing her how much he loves her, and how they really fit together emotionally. They are physical with each other, and Chloe believes Kieran's "truth," but it gets difficult to manage his mood swings. He's erratic, and jealous, and gets angry quickly, followed by dramatic apologies and presents.
Each time Chloe recognizes that Kieran's love for her is obsessive, he convinces her to make more and more sacrifices for his wishes. She has so few ties at this point, that his sabotage easily severs her flailing friendships. All along there's been small instances of physical abuse, beginning with intimidation and escalating into pushes, shoves and one harrowing weekend where Kieran essentially keeps Chloe prisoner in her own home.
It's then that Chloe finally reaches out. Her mother's able to be responsive, and act as an advocate, though the problems haven't ended. I liked the story, and felt like it was an important one to tell. Also, it's written in an accessible way, seeing how slowly domestic violence can creep into a relationship. Chloe is a good student, and good kid. Her family is middle class, and her friends are normal. She's an Everyday gal, who can't comprehend the danger she's in until she's literally running for help.
Part and parcel with Chloe's situation is her embarrassment that she could be dating an abuser. She often wonders how she could have been foolish enough to fall for Kieran, but she also misses the way he made her feel cherished and loved. He's two people in her mind: Sweet Kieran and Mean Kieran, which is a common experience for abuse victims. There's a lot of honest self-reflection in the story, and guides the reader to understand the underpinning signs of abuse, and emotional manipulation. Chloe's lucky that she was able to get help when she did, but she makes further (common) mistakes in how she shuts Kieran down. People wonder why women don't report abuse, or why they allow their abusers to return--some of this complicated cycle is very plainly demonstrated in the book, and that's a powerful object lesson for younger readers, in particular.
April 24, 2019
"I hope...he never calls me again, but he still owes me a big apology."
--Girl on the Brink
Summary: Aspiring reporter Chloe (age 17) lands a dream job as a summer intern with the local paper in her New Jersey suburb, and meets the somewhat annoying-but-cute Kieran while she is on assignment. Kieran (age 19) pounces on Chloe, who is pleased to find a creative person like herself (he's an aspiring actor), and enjoys his lavish attention as a welcome alternative to her unhappy home life due to her parents' impending divorce. Gradually, it becomes more and more apparent that Kieran is emotionally disturbed, and unable (or unwilling) to control his need to micromanage her life or his extreme jealousy. At first, she thinks "There's no point in resisting," but by the time he's repeatedly hurt her physically and mentally, Chloe knows in her head that he's abusing her, but her heart makes excuses for him. Which will win? Head or heart?
Los Angeles author Christina Hoag has crafted Girl on the Brink as a "howdunit." While it is no mystery why the vulnerable and intelligent 17-year old Chloe falls for the initial charm of a potentially lethal 19-year old young man whose avid attention leads her into a summer romance, the real mystery lies in how the heck this otherwise sharp, but troubled, teen will extricate herself from what increasingly becomes an abusive relationship.
Hoag has grounded the story in the psychological reality of how abusive relationships can occur at any age. The episodic story is told in first person from Chloe's point of view, which gives it a kind of one-sided diary quality, but its use of present tense gives it a you-are-there immediacy. It unfolds the way life--and relationships--unfold.
This is not a "sleeping with the enemy" tale. There are no real villains here. Neither the sex nor the violence is sensationalized. In fact, the tragedy and victory play out with greater impact because "domestic abuse" is sadly commonplace--even though it is almost taboo in American culture to discuss it openly, especially with young daughters and sons.
Many readers may see themselves or someone they know in these pages. And to her credit, Hoag supplies a "Resources" list in the Appendix where teens can seek help if they are in Chloe's situation.
It is a well-documented fact that a significant number of abusive relationships are inhabited by two people who say they love each other. Girl on the Brink gently explores this paradox (nothing is preachy). And when it is finally over, a wiser Chloe states:
"I know it was okay to leave Kieran, and it was okay to miss him, too."
Abusive relationships can happen throughout women's lives in repetitive patterns. Girl on the Brink serves as a beacon that shines light on how to nip potential abuse cycles in the bud, and place high priority on mutual respect in relationships.
--Girl on the Brink
Summary: Aspiring reporter Chloe (age 17) lands a dream job as a summer intern with the local paper in her New Jersey suburb, and meets the somewhat annoying-but-cute Kieran while she is on assignment. Kieran (age 19) pounces on Chloe, who is pleased to find a creative person like herself (he's an aspiring actor), and enjoys his lavish attention as a welcome alternative to her unhappy home life due to her parents' impending divorce. Gradually, it becomes more and more apparent that Kieran is emotionally disturbed, and unable (or unwilling) to control his need to micromanage her life or his extreme jealousy. At first, she thinks "There's no point in resisting," but by the time he's repeatedly hurt her physically and mentally, Chloe knows in her head that he's abusing her, but her heart makes excuses for him. Which will win? Head or heart?
Los Angeles author Christina Hoag has crafted Girl on the Brink as a "howdunit." While it is no mystery why the vulnerable and intelligent 17-year old Chloe falls for the initial charm of a potentially lethal 19-year old young man whose avid attention leads her into a summer romance, the real mystery lies in how the heck this otherwise sharp, but troubled, teen will extricate herself from what increasingly becomes an abusive relationship.
Hoag has grounded the story in the psychological reality of how abusive relationships can occur at any age. The episodic story is told in first person from Chloe's point of view, which gives it a kind of one-sided diary quality, but its use of present tense gives it a you-are-there immediacy. It unfolds the way life--and relationships--unfold.
This is not a "sleeping with the enemy" tale. There are no real villains here. Neither the sex nor the violence is sensationalized. In fact, the tragedy and victory play out with greater impact because "domestic abuse" is sadly commonplace--even though it is almost taboo in American culture to discuss it openly, especially with young daughters and sons.
Many readers may see themselves or someone they know in these pages. And to her credit, Hoag supplies a "Resources" list in the Appendix where teens can seek help if they are in Chloe's situation.
It is a well-documented fact that a significant number of abusive relationships are inhabited by two people who say they love each other. Girl on the Brink gently explores this paradox (nothing is preachy). And when it is finally over, a wiser Chloe states:
"I know it was okay to leave Kieran, and it was okay to miss him, too."
Abusive relationships can happen throughout women's lives in repetitive patterns. Girl on the Brink serves as a beacon that shines light on how to nip potential abuse cycles in the bud, and place high priority on mutual respect in relationships.
February 17, 2017
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Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot
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I generously received an ARC from YABound Book Tours in exchange for an honest review...
This book is intended for a mature audience and should be read with the utmost caution.
A woman wearing glasses speaks. “You gotta stay strong, girl. You can’t let him back in or he do the same shit to you over and over. They never stop. And yeah, it’s hard when you miss ‘em, but eventually there’s nothing good left to miss because the abuse just gets worse and worse. That’s what you gotta think of anytime you feel yourself getting weak.” --- Excerpt from - Melange Books, LLC. “Girl on the Brink.” iBooks.
Girl on the Brink is the first book I have read from author Christina Hoag, but I’ll happily admit that it won’t be the last. This book was truly one of the most emotional reads that I have read in a long time because it addresses such a strong message that all teens should have knowledge about. I strongly recommend this book to every young women out there because so many of “us” find ourselves in abusive relationships, ignoring the early warning signs.
At some point in our lives we have either witnessed an abusive (physical or emotional) relationship or have been in one. You’ve had that friend that begins a relationship and suddenly disappears only to reappear weeks/months later looking and acting like a completely different person. The joy that once radiated off of her is no longer there. Sadly I watched this happen to one of my best friends and it took her three years to finally take a stand against the violence.
When we were 15 years old she began dating this older guy. To the outside world it looked like the perfect relationship, but behind closed doors it was anything but. Shortly after their relationship started, her whole demeanor change. My once fun and joyful friend drastically changed before my eyes. She quit the cheerleading squad, her grades began to drop and she lost interest in hanging out with her friends. We all suspected that something was going on, but she never admitted to it until we witnessed it first hand. While her story ended on a high note, hundreds of them end tragically.
I strongly recommend this book to any women who has ever been in an abusive relationship. I also recommend parents having their teens that are just starting to date read this book.
I generously received an ARC from YABound Book Tours in exchange for an honest review...
This book is intended for a mature audience and should be read with the utmost caution.
A woman wearing glasses speaks. “You gotta stay strong, girl. You can’t let him back in or he do the same shit to you over and over. They never stop. And yeah, it’s hard when you miss ‘em, but eventually there’s nothing good left to miss because the abuse just gets worse and worse. That’s what you gotta think of anytime you feel yourself getting weak.” --- Excerpt from - Melange Books, LLC. “Girl on the Brink.” iBooks.
Girl on the Brink is the first book I have read from author Christina Hoag, but I’ll happily admit that it won’t be the last. This book was truly one of the most emotional reads that I have read in a long time because it addresses such a strong message that all teens should have knowledge about. I strongly recommend this book to every young women out there because so many of “us” find ourselves in abusive relationships, ignoring the early warning signs.
At some point in our lives we have either witnessed an abusive (physical or emotional) relationship or have been in one. You’ve had that friend that begins a relationship and suddenly disappears only to reappear weeks/months later looking and acting like a completely different person. The joy that once radiated off of her is no longer there. Sadly I watched this happen to one of my best friends and it took her three years to finally take a stand against the violence.
When we were 15 years old she began dating this older guy. To the outside world it looked like the perfect relationship, but behind closed doors it was anything but. Shortly after their relationship started, her whole demeanor change. My once fun and joyful friend drastically changed before my eyes. She quit the cheerleading squad, her grades began to drop and she lost interest in hanging out with her friends. We all suspected that something was going on, but she never admitted to it until we witnessed it first hand. While her story ended on a high note, hundreds of them end tragically.
I strongly recommend this book to any women who has ever been in an abusive relationship. I also recommend parents having their teens that are just starting to date read this book.
August 30, 2016
“People have to help themselves. There’s nothing you can do. You have to protect yourself from dangerous people, and that means walking away.” (Kindle Locations 4238-4239).
On an assignment for her newspaper internship the summer before senior year, Chloe meets Kieran. He is attentive and charming and wants to be with Chloe. After her last relationship that went nowhere, Chloe is alll too happy to be with Kieran, but he immediately starts to take over her life. He is with her at all times and she slowly starts losing her friends because she only wants to be with Kieran. It isn’t all roses and dates, though, as Kieran’s possessive side is also full of violence just below the surface waiting for an opportunity to lash out. Relationships are never perfect, but Chloe will soon learn that this one with Kieran is bringing her down a path she will have a hard time leaving.
I wasn’t really sure if Kieran was a bad boyfriend or not. He gets possessive early on. On their special date it’s all about him and his acting and using her to video him to get ready. When she wants him to meet her friends he cleverly manipulates the situations so they don’t meet and she doesn’t see her friends that night. This could be normal or it could be the shallow end of a bad situation. Kieran is the puppy dog lover who follows Chloe around and makes her feel special with all the attention. So what if he’s jealous? So what if he makes her do things she doesn’t at first want to do? They are made for each other like peanut butter and pickles on a sandwich, right?
Anyone who’s been in a bad relationship will see the signs, but innocent Chloe doesn’t know any better. This book was so scarily accurate I had trouble putting it down and going to bed. I was waiting for that climax. I was waiting for something truly dreadful to happen to Chloe. I was waiting to see how far Kieran would go.
The beginning was a bit slow to get to the plot of the story, but the smooth writing style and interesting insight into Chloe’s relationships with those around her will keep you reading until you get to the meat of the story: Kieran.
Much like Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson, Girl on the Brink is a book people NEED to read. Chloe had few relationships herself before Kieran came along and what he did might have appeared normal or justified, but seeing it from the outside the signs are much more clear. This could happen to you. It happens every day. Domestic abuse is NOT okay, either emotionally or physically and both boys and girls need to know what it looks like.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author and this is an honest review.
On an assignment for her newspaper internship the summer before senior year, Chloe meets Kieran. He is attentive and charming and wants to be with Chloe. After her last relationship that went nowhere, Chloe is alll too happy to be with Kieran, but he immediately starts to take over her life. He is with her at all times and she slowly starts losing her friends because she only wants to be with Kieran. It isn’t all roses and dates, though, as Kieran’s possessive side is also full of violence just below the surface waiting for an opportunity to lash out. Relationships are never perfect, but Chloe will soon learn that this one with Kieran is bringing her down a path she will have a hard time leaving.
I wasn’t really sure if Kieran was a bad boyfriend or not. He gets possessive early on. On their special date it’s all about him and his acting and using her to video him to get ready. When she wants him to meet her friends he cleverly manipulates the situations so they don’t meet and she doesn’t see her friends that night. This could be normal or it could be the shallow end of a bad situation. Kieran is the puppy dog lover who follows Chloe around and makes her feel special with all the attention. So what if he’s jealous? So what if he makes her do things she doesn’t at first want to do? They are made for each other like peanut butter and pickles on a sandwich, right?
Anyone who’s been in a bad relationship will see the signs, but innocent Chloe doesn’t know any better. This book was so scarily accurate I had trouble putting it down and going to bed. I was waiting for that climax. I was waiting for something truly dreadful to happen to Chloe. I was waiting to see how far Kieran would go.
The beginning was a bit slow to get to the plot of the story, but the smooth writing style and interesting insight into Chloe’s relationships with those around her will keep you reading until you get to the meat of the story: Kieran.
Much like Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson, Girl on the Brink is a book people NEED to read. Chloe had few relationships herself before Kieran came along and what he did might have appeared normal or justified, but seeing it from the outside the signs are much more clear. This could happen to you. It happens every day. Domestic abuse is NOT okay, either emotionally or physically and both boys and girls need to know what it looks like.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author and this is an honest review.
October 20, 2016
Have you ever been stuck in a relationship that has been turbulent ? Know someone that has been yo-yoed around due to relationship issues ? Chloe had her whole life ahead of her with landing the perfect internship job at the local newspaper and at seventeen it was the best job for her before her senior year. During her first interview, Chloe meets Kieran . She hasn't had the best of luck with guys and Kieran is hot and seems into her . The relationship starts out as any normal one would but during this time , Kieran starts to get more protective of Chloe and only wanting her attention on him. For the first few months, Chloe goes along with it as she wants to make him happy and she does like him. However, as we go through the pages we notice that Kieran's attitude changes and it's like a switch has been flicked and he turns into a raging abusive boyfriend and always demanding where she goes and becomes obsessive. Chloe hoping to nip it in the bud , breaks it off early with Kieran but this turns out to rage him even more and then from here Chloe will discover the full wrath of revenge and what it is like to have a stalker as Kieran starts to stalk Chloe and when she finally gets up the guts to do something about it , he has twisted everything painting Chloe as the Bad one in the relationship not him. Girl on the Brink was a worst case scenario if someone gets stuck in a relationship like this as trials ensured and police records were created. Girl on the Brink is an Edgy YA read and talks about the different forms of abuse that can happen in a relationship and how often something that seems perfect can be decieving and end up toxic.
October 20, 2016
When I read this synopsis of GIRL ON THE BRINK and saw the beautiful cover, I wanted to read this book. I've read several books about teenage domestic abuse, but this one more than others has left me taken aback. To be quite honest, I'm finding it difficult to share my thoughts.
Reading about Chloe and Kieran's relationship and seeing it all unfold as it was happening, was like reliving the nightmare of what my friend experienced when we were teenagers. Without revealing any specifics for the sake of her privacy, I can say that her story and Chloe's story are far too similar - the manipulation, the mind control, the separation from family and friends, the intimidation, and the physical abuse. And it was scary.
Christina Hoag is very effective in her storytelling as she depicts the many stages of this relationship and the aftermath of its demise.
Quotes to note:
"I try to stop the spin, to get back to where I know I'm right." (Ch.8) - Kieran is getting out of control again, and Chloe recognizes the manipulation in the moment.
"I never thought you'd be one of those girls who makes a boyfriend her life and forgets her best friend. Boy, was I wrong." (Ch. 11) - said by Clarissa, Chloe's best friend. She doesn't know the whole truth of the situation, and is hurt by what she thinks she knows.
"He's doing it again, twisting the truth." (Ch. 11) - Even more manipuation.
"It's my fault. Why didn't I break up with him after his fit of rage?" (Ch. 14) - Chloe blaming herself and victims are apt to do.
GIRL ON THE BRINK is a tough but necessary read. Maybe after some time, I can better express my thoughts, but right now I'm still taking it all in.
Reading about Chloe and Kieran's relationship and seeing it all unfold as it was happening, was like reliving the nightmare of what my friend experienced when we were teenagers. Without revealing any specifics for the sake of her privacy, I can say that her story and Chloe's story are far too similar - the manipulation, the mind control, the separation from family and friends, the intimidation, and the physical abuse. And it was scary.
Christina Hoag is very effective in her storytelling as she depicts the many stages of this relationship and the aftermath of its demise.
Quotes to note:
"I try to stop the spin, to get back to where I know I'm right." (Ch.8) - Kieran is getting out of control again, and Chloe recognizes the manipulation in the moment.
"I never thought you'd be one of those girls who makes a boyfriend her life and forgets her best friend. Boy, was I wrong." (Ch. 11) - said by Clarissa, Chloe's best friend. She doesn't know the whole truth of the situation, and is hurt by what she thinks she knows.
"He's doing it again, twisting the truth." (Ch. 11) - Even more manipuation.
"It's my fault. Why didn't I break up with him after his fit of rage?" (Ch. 14) - Chloe blaming herself and victims are apt to do.
GIRL ON THE BRINK is a tough but necessary read. Maybe after some time, I can better express my thoughts, but right now I'm still taking it all in.
October 20, 2016
Full Review at http://kendralovesbooks.blogspot.com/...
For the summer, Chloe interns for her local newspaper. On her first assignment she meets Kieran. He asks Chloe out on a date and she immediately says yes. Their date goes great and she really starts liking Kieran. Throughout the summer they hang out with each other almost everyday. But when Chloe wants to hang out with her friends, Kieran always has an excuse or makes for feel guilty to be with him instead. And when they do see Chloe's friends, Kieran is very possessive of her.
Then Kieran starts becoming more and more mentally abusive. But he always comes back and apologizes and showers Chloe with flowers and gifts. Chloe keeps going back to him, then he starts becoming physical abusive and Chloe finally has enough. She tells her mom and she joins a support group for domestic violence.
I really liked this book and it's on a really real subject that effects tons of people around the world. I really liked Chloe and I'm glad she could tell her mom so she could get help. Chloe was really strong and made sure she didn't run back to Kieran even though she missed him. As for Kieran I hope he gets what he deserves. All in all, I absolutely recommend this book!!!
I received a copy from YA Bound Books in exchange for an honest review.
For the summer, Chloe interns for her local newspaper. On her first assignment she meets Kieran. He asks Chloe out on a date and she immediately says yes. Their date goes great and she really starts liking Kieran. Throughout the summer they hang out with each other almost everyday. But when Chloe wants to hang out with her friends, Kieran always has an excuse or makes for feel guilty to be with him instead. And when they do see Chloe's friends, Kieran is very possessive of her.
Then Kieran starts becoming more and more mentally abusive. But he always comes back and apologizes and showers Chloe with flowers and gifts. Chloe keeps going back to him, then he starts becoming physical abusive and Chloe finally has enough. She tells her mom and she joins a support group for domestic violence.
I really liked this book and it's on a really real subject that effects tons of people around the world. I really liked Chloe and I'm glad she could tell her mom so she could get help. Chloe was really strong and made sure she didn't run back to Kieran even though she missed him. As for Kieran I hope he gets what he deserves. All in all, I absolutely recommend this book!!!
I received a copy from YA Bound Books in exchange for an honest review.
October 21, 2016
I often find that I really enjoy these books that have to do with dating abuse. I think that it is because I can relate. I had a bad experience with an ex that was not as bad as this situation but bordered on mental abuse. It was very difficult to get out of that relationship so I really felt for these characters while reading.
I enjoyed the character of Chloe a lot. She is a smart kid whom may not have made all the correct decisions but was smart enough to know when to get out. I could feel her loneliness when she was experiencing trouble with her friends and her boyfriend all at the same time. I really felt saddened during those times.
At first, Kieran, was perfect. I even fell for him but he quickly became obsessive and domineering, not to mention physically abusive. By the end of the book, I no longer had a liking for him and parts seemed to be written to make the reader feel a little bad for all he had gone through, but I did not.
I would suggest this book for any teen that may be going through an abusive relationship or any teen whom is starting to date just so that they know the dangers and can see the warning signs.
I enjoyed the character of Chloe a lot. She is a smart kid whom may not have made all the correct decisions but was smart enough to know when to get out. I could feel her loneliness when she was experiencing trouble with her friends and her boyfriend all at the same time. I really felt saddened during those times.
At first, Kieran, was perfect. I even fell for him but he quickly became obsessive and domineering, not to mention physically abusive. By the end of the book, I no longer had a liking for him and parts seemed to be written to make the reader feel a little bad for all he had gone through, but I did not.
I would suggest this book for any teen that may be going through an abusive relationship or any teen whom is starting to date just so that they know the dangers and can see the warning signs.
Read
October 17, 2022The Backstory: This book was inspired by my own experience. I got involved in an abusive relationship and managed to get myself out of it after a year and a half or so, but it was difficult. This happened to me well into adulthood, but I wanted to write a book aimed at teenagers because the signs of an abuser are clear -- once you know what they are! Trouble is, no one tells you what they are! So Chloe's story lays out the red flags in a way that I hope is entertaining and suspenseful! Since writing this, I've written several essays and short stories about my experience and I've spoken at women's groups about it. I've also spoken about it at writers' groups as an example of how I wrote an autobiographical novel. Last year, I took a training course that certifies me as a domestic violence counsellor in California and I now volunteer as a facilitator for a DV support group in the Los Angeles area. My goal with this book is to make teenagers aware of intimate partner abuse and violence. Sadly, it's incredibly common all over the world. I hope that by sharing my story I have helped someone somewhere.
June 5, 2021
Primero que nada quiero agradecer a la autora por enviarme un ejemplar, estoy muy contenta con esto.
Primero empecemos con lo importante, cabe de aclarar que NO es un libro romántico, sin embargo creo yo que es un libro que TODA persona interesada en el género ya mencionado debe leer.
Amé por completo la forma en la autora transmitió cada etapa de Cloe, toca puntos tan fuertes como lo es el mantener una relación tóxica, lo difícil que es intentar salir de ella y lo mucho que en ocasiones esa persona puede llegar a manipularnos, los personajes secundarios que hacen propensa a nuestra protagonista a cometer errores hacen que sea una historial real.
En verdad me arrepiento de no haber conocido el libro con anterioridad al igual que a principio no meterme de lleno a la historia por cuestiones de trabajo, es un libro que todo adolescente debe de leer si tomamos en cuenta los temas, que como ya dije, tratan.
Sin duda les digo con el corazón en la mano que es un libro que DEBEN comprar.
Ustedes, ¿ya lo leyeron? y si es así ¿qué tal les pareció?
@labloggerliteraria
Primero empecemos con lo importante, cabe de aclarar que NO es un libro romántico, sin embargo creo yo que es un libro que TODA persona interesada en el género ya mencionado debe leer.
Amé por completo la forma en la autora transmitió cada etapa de Cloe, toca puntos tan fuertes como lo es el mantener una relación tóxica, lo difícil que es intentar salir de ella y lo mucho que en ocasiones esa persona puede llegar a manipularnos, los personajes secundarios que hacen propensa a nuestra protagonista a cometer errores hacen que sea una historial real.
En verdad me arrepiento de no haber conocido el libro con anterioridad al igual que a principio no meterme de lleno a la historia por cuestiones de trabajo, es un libro que todo adolescente debe de leer si tomamos en cuenta los temas, que como ya dije, tratan.
Sin duda les digo con el corazón en la mano que es un libro que DEBEN comprar.
Ustedes, ¿ya lo leyeron? y si es así ¿qué tal les pareció?
@labloggerliteraria
September 7, 2016
There are several things I love about Christina Hoag’s fiction: her lyrical prose, well-developed characters, and suspenseful plots. But in addition to these important elements, Ms. Hoag does something I feel makes some fiction stand out above the rest—namely, she deals with issues of crucial significance. Like her gritty, realistic portrayal of L.A. gang life in Skin of Tattoos, Girl on the Brink brings readers face-to-face with a real-world topic some would rather not confront: abusive relationships between teenagers. Inspired by true events, this book is provocative, scary, and extremely engaging. Despite some rather dubious naiveté on the part of the female protagonist and the cops toward the end of the story, Girl on the Brink is a must read for anyone concerned with the issue of domestic violence, particularly among the young. I eagerly await more of Ms. Hoag’s work and will be among its first readers.
May 17, 2017
A compelling story, initially of first love, which quickly spirals into abuse, control and fear. Chloe is the perfect target for a manipulator like Kieran. The break up of her parents marriage, her mum's inability to cope with it and her lack of experience mean that she is particularly vulnerable to Kieran, who seems like the answer to all her dreams. Following a well known pattern, Kieran flatters, isolates and then controls Chloe who is out of her depth but is too ashamed and humiliated to confide in anyone. His excuses become hers as she tries to justify his treatment of her.
The sequence of events in this book rang so true and there are countless women, and men, out there whose lives follow the same path. This is an important topic, impressively told and I hope that it reaches a wide audience, particularly amongst the YA market.
My thanks to TBConFB for this copy.
The sequence of events in this book rang so true and there are countless women, and men, out there whose lives follow the same path. This is an important topic, impressively told and I hope that it reaches a wide audience, particularly amongst the YA market.
My thanks to TBConFB for this copy.
May 26, 2021
Un libro increible, con un gran mensaje y con una lectura fácil y fluida, demoré varios días para acabarlo, pero no por falta de ganas, más bien por falta de tiempo.
Te atrapa y cuesta trabajo dejarlo.
Cloe es una adolescente en el verano antes de su último año del instituto que conoce a un chico de 19 bastante maduro comparado con sus compañeros de clases, pero eso no es lo único diferente en su comportamiento, Kieran dista mucho de ser alguien normal y pronto se lo deja en claro.
En esta historia podemos apreciar las etapas de maltrato al que es sometida la protagonista y es bastante claro dónde cometió errores que pudieron marcar una diferencia. Se puede tomar como una guía de apoyo para después del maltrato.
Es una gran lectura para adolescentes y una forma de brindar ayudar para prevenir y sobrellevar la situación.
Te atrapa y cuesta trabajo dejarlo.
Cloe es una adolescente en el verano antes de su último año del instituto que conoce a un chico de 19 bastante maduro comparado con sus compañeros de clases, pero eso no es lo único diferente en su comportamiento, Kieran dista mucho de ser alguien normal y pronto se lo deja en claro.
En esta historia podemos apreciar las etapas de maltrato al que es sometida la protagonista y es bastante claro dónde cometió errores que pudieron marcar una diferencia. Se puede tomar como una guía de apoyo para después del maltrato.
Es una gran lectura para adolescentes y una forma de brindar ayudar para prevenir y sobrellevar la situación.
June 22, 2018
This is a heart breaking story of emotional abuse and it illustrates how easy it is for teens to become emotionally lost, even when they seem happy and appear to be doing well in life. It shows how people are wrapped up in their own lives and just how easy it is to miss the signs that show our friends or loved ones are struggling. The circle of abuse, the effects that divorce has on self esteem and the human need to feel loved, are highlighted in this story. The narrator really brings the story to life, doing a wonderful job of all the voices and making you feel the emotions expressed. This is a book all teens and women should listen to, it really bring home just how easy it is to slip into and how hard to overcome that circle of abuse is.
June 20, 2020
Chloe meets Kieran whilst on a job for a local newspaper. What starts as a fun filled relationship soon turns into one where she is being manipulated and isolated from her friends. With her family falling to pieces around her, Chloe wants to help Kieran overcome his demons from his childhood. The story really showed how very subtlety someone can assert influence and control. When times are good you really want to believe in Kieran, when times are bad you want to shout as Chloe to run as fast as she can and not look back. Taking a tough subject I felt the author dealt with it sensitively and at times it made me feel uncomfortable, but that was important to the story as it made it much more realistic. An interesting listen.
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