skins

by Anita Arendsen

Abuse and violence against women and children are not modern-day afflictions. They are societal violations that have been left untreated for decades. In this true-life story, Anita Arendsen weaves a tapestry of peculiar characters together to bring to life the reality of how this evil eats away at the core of existence, causing people to abandon morals and values, and even themselves. SKINS outlines the pain and misery caused by living with sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. Thoughts of suicide and murder constantly torment Amelia, so much so that she eventually even purchases a gun. This story tells the tale of how she purposefully peels away layers of hatred and self-loathing accrued over many years of physical and sexual abuse, revealing a deep-seated yearning to regain her dignity – and hope! – through resilience and self-care. This triumphant story does not dwell on what has been lost, however, but rather celebrates the tenacity and endurance of the human spirit.

292 pages, Paperback and ebook

First published May 25, 2021

Reviews

[Chevonn (All the books and I) · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Skins" is a story based on true life events that takes us on Amelia's life journey from childhood right through to being a woman with her own family and career. The thing is that along this journey, she experiences a lot of hurt and betrayal and devastation which leads to her appropriating a deep hatred and mistrust as she grows up.

This story is raw and emotional and deals with some very difficult topics, including sexual and physical abuse, difficult family relationships, homelessness and deep-seated fear and insecurity. It's tough to read what Amelia went through.

But on the flip side, it was incredible to see a character with such a hopeful and positive outlook, who could be so determined and who constantly sought to improve and do the best she could in the situation. I also absolutely loved the setting and that these are names and places I am familiar with - there's always an extra special feeling when reading a book like this. The writing created vivid pictures and scenes and helped to draw me, as the reader, right into the story being told.

I would issue a word of caution to readers wanting to dive into this book as there are some aspects that could be distressing and triggering, but at the same time, this is such an important book especially in our South African context. We need to address this epidemic in our country and we need to create an open dialogue for those who may be experiencing similar things to what Amelia experienced. And as human beings, we need to #dobetter!

Raw, emotional, honest and ultimately healing and hopeful! What a read! Also, what a beautiful cover! Absolutely love it. There is a lot to be said for this book that I haven't even mentioned. Do yourself a favour and grab a copy!

[Calista Gallwey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enthralling and Inspiring

For 2 days Skins did not leave my side! I took it everywhere with me.

This is the first book that I have read in a long time that captivated me right from the start and actually kept me intrigued with each page read.
I even found myself drawing out the last few pages because I didn’t want the book to end.

I thought Anita’s writing style very different to some of the other books and authors I have enjoyed in the past and was something I thoroughly enjoyed.

This book evoked every emotion on the spectrum.

Honestly brilliant!