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The Girl in the Pink Shoes
Jessica Harrington grew up not really knowing her biological father. He was something of an enigma, living in a country thousands of miles away. She was very much part of a single-parent family, relying on her mother for everything. That is, until her mother’s boyfriend stepped into her life.
The Girl in the Pink Shoes is a harrowing and graphic account of a young girl’s physical and sexual abuse at the hands of her stepfather, already a convicted paedophile. Jessica Harrington thought she would be protected. After all, wasn’t that what mums were supposed to do?
Jessica’s mother betrayed her and looked the other way. She allowed the devil himself into her daughter’s bedroom.
What followed was years of the most horrific abuse imaginable, brutal rapes, video recordings from hidden cameras, and introductions to other paedophiles.
Warned that if she ever breathed a word to anyone, she would be tortured and killed, there was never a safe place to hide from the horrors she faced on a daily basis.
Bullied at school, raped and beaten at home, Jessica saw no way out and tried to take her own life. But even then, the abuse and the torment continued for many years.
An incredible story from one of life’s true survivors that will leave a lasting impression long after the last page has been turned.
The Girl in the Pink Shoes is a harrowing and graphic account of a young girl’s physical and sexual abuse at the hands of her stepfather, already a convicted paedophile. Jessica Harrington thought she would be protected. After all, wasn’t that what mums were supposed to do?
Jessica’s mother betrayed her and looked the other way. She allowed the devil himself into her daughter’s bedroom.
What followed was years of the most horrific abuse imaginable, brutal rapes, video recordings from hidden cameras, and introductions to other paedophiles.
Warned that if she ever breathed a word to anyone, she would be tortured and killed, there was never a safe place to hide from the horrors she faced on a daily basis.
Bullied at school, raped and beaten at home, Jessica saw no way out and tried to take her own life. But even then, the abuse and the torment continued for many years.
An incredible story from one of life’s true survivors that will leave a lasting impression long after the last page has been turned.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 4, 2021
88 people are currently reading
223 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
November 17, 2021
Wow, I don't even know where to start with this book. It's one of the most horrifying things I've ever read. It's so hard to imagine that people (devils, really) like this exist all around us and are walking free in a large number of cases.
So, while this was difficult to read, and I had to take several breaks while doing so, I think it should be required reading for just about everyone.
Based on the content I wouldn't exactly recommend it for younger teens, but based on the writing style (and the possible help they could get from this) I would.
The writing style is to the point and easy to understand, so if someone of that age were to pick it up, lots of things would be clear to them.
I think especially the descriptions of Jessica's thoughts before, after and during the abuse are written well. They're detailed, but necessary.
And the book is very gripping, it's almost like a thriller because you never know what's going to happen next to poor Jessica so you're on the edge of your seat, scared to read on.
I didn't realise this was part one of the story when I saw it was available on Kindle Unlimited, so now I'll have to wait to finish it. And that ending isn't making the wait easy! I hate Shawn so much.
LET'S TALK ABOUT HIM.
I can't give too much away without spoiling, but this man deserves nothing except the equal amount of abuse he put Jessica through x100. To think that he got acting parts due to his abuse of her...what an upside down world we live in.
I wanted to punch everyone (save a select few) for turning a blind eye, namely Susan. What kind of mother would let a convicted pedophile into her home (and bed) and then ignore her child's cries for help over and over again to the point where it happened even in front of her?
To end this on a more positive note, I'm very proud of Jessica for writing down her experiences and sharing them with the world. I hope all her abusers get caught and that she gets justice.
So, while this was difficult to read, and I had to take several breaks while doing so, I think it should be required reading for just about everyone.
Based on the content I wouldn't exactly recommend it for younger teens, but based on the writing style (and the possible help they could get from this) I would.
The writing style is to the point and easy to understand, so if someone of that age were to pick it up, lots of things would be clear to them.
I think especially the descriptions of Jessica's thoughts before, after and during the abuse are written well. They're detailed, but necessary.
And the book is very gripping, it's almost like a thriller because you never know what's going to happen next to poor Jessica so you're on the edge of your seat, scared to read on.
I didn't realise this was part one of the story when I saw it was available on Kindle Unlimited, so now I'll have to wait to finish it. And that ending isn't making the wait easy! I hate Shawn so much.
LET'S TALK ABOUT HIM.
I can't give too much away without spoiling, but this man deserves nothing except the equal amount of abuse he put Jessica through x100. To think that he got acting parts due to his abuse of her...what an upside down world we live in.
I wanted to punch everyone (save a select few) for turning a blind eye, namely Susan. What kind of mother would let a convicted pedophile into her home (and bed) and then ignore her child's cries for help over and over again to the point where it happened even in front of her?
To end this on a more positive note, I'm very proud of Jessica for writing down her experiences and sharing them with the world. I hope all her abusers get caught and that she gets justice.
November 2, 2021
It's going to be hard to criticise this book without sounding heartless, so cut me some slack...
Clearly, it's an astonishing thing that Jessica has put her horrifying experiences down in words for people to read, and hopefully to make a difference for other people suffering in the way she has. Full credit to her for plumbing the depths of her memories and being brave enough to dredge up experiences that her mind has buried for her own protection. I can't express enough my sadness and horror at the things she has gone through.
My criticisms are about the writing style of the book. Now, I know that she's not a writer by trade. And often, she finds novel and expressive ways to write about how she was feeling and her coping mechanisms. Full marks for that. It's just that (i) some of the reviewers commend her on what a great writer she is - and I disagree, there are some things that are not that well written (ii) this would have been a much better read (in terms of language, grammar etc) if someone had just edited it for her (or edited it more thoroughly). There are missing words throughout, duplications, and constant errors that prevented the writing from flowing.
My final criticism is the end of the book. Is it meant to be a cliff-hanger? Is she going to write a sequel? Has she fallen into the modern TV-writers' habit of leaving us dangling in the hope that there's a follow-up? I don't understand.
So, I've probably put a few backs up here but it's done with the best of intentions about leaving an honest and fair review of the book. My heart goes out to Jessica, I commend her courage, and I feel heartbroken for all the souls who are being tormented by similar evil beings out there. Let's hope that the powers that be can improve the ways they help the victims and catch and punish the perpetrators. What a shockingly horrible aspect of the world we live in.
Clearly, it's an astonishing thing that Jessica has put her horrifying experiences down in words for people to read, and hopefully to make a difference for other people suffering in the way she has. Full credit to her for plumbing the depths of her memories and being brave enough to dredge up experiences that her mind has buried for her own protection. I can't express enough my sadness and horror at the things she has gone through.
My criticisms are about the writing style of the book. Now, I know that she's not a writer by trade. And often, she finds novel and expressive ways to write about how she was feeling and her coping mechanisms. Full marks for that. It's just that (i) some of the reviewers commend her on what a great writer she is - and I disagree, there are some things that are not that well written (ii) this would have been a much better read (in terms of language, grammar etc) if someone had just edited it for her (or edited it more thoroughly). There are missing words throughout, duplications, and constant errors that prevented the writing from flowing.
My final criticism is the end of the book. Is it meant to be a cliff-hanger? Is she going to write a sequel? Has she fallen into the modern TV-writers' habit of leaving us dangling in the hope that there's a follow-up? I don't understand.
So, I've probably put a few backs up here but it's done with the best of intentions about leaving an honest and fair review of the book. My heart goes out to Jessica, I commend her courage, and I feel heartbroken for all the souls who are being tormented by similar evil beings out there. Let's hope that the powers that be can improve the ways they help the victims and catch and punish the perpetrators. What a shockingly horrible aspect of the world we live in.
January 12, 2023
Hey Jessica- Thank you for the free ARC from Netgalley in exchange of my honest review. I'll give you 4 out of 5 birds for The Girl in the Pink Shoes. Holy heavy! Did I know how intense of a book I was getting into, no... And it wasn't until I read the reviews that I realized this is part of your childhood. First of all I am so so sorry for the pain you have lived through. As far as the book itself, the storyline kept me invested and I needed to know what happened in the end. Is this book for everyone? Absolutely not. It has a major trigger warning. It's a sad reality that as parents we have to protect our children from so much and that there are some parents who aren't willing to protect their own children.
October 21, 2021
An emotional read
I cannot believe how brave Jessica is to share her story. It is a subject close to my heart and I found this an incredibly emotional read. Thoughts and prayers to anyone in this situation and I truly hope the author has found the security and happiness she deserves.
I cannot believe how brave Jessica is to share her story. It is a subject close to my heart and I found this an incredibly emotional read. Thoughts and prayers to anyone in this situation and I truly hope the author has found the security and happiness she deserves.
July 18, 2021
Emotional read
I can't say I've ventured into this genre before however the author was local to me and curiosity got the better of me. Such a horrowing story, superbly written I almost felt as though I were living it with her. A book which, hopefully, will shine a light on these issues and help to empower and save others in similar situations. X
I can't say I've ventured into this genre before however the author was local to me and curiosity got the better of me. Such a horrowing story, superbly written I almost felt as though I were living it with her. A book which, hopefully, will shine a light on these issues and help to empower and save others in similar situations. X
November 5, 2021
Deeply harrowing story
This book was deeply harrowing. This young girl was let down by so many people, in so many ways.
Every person who works with children, in any capacity should read this.
A story that will stay with me for a very long time
This book was deeply harrowing. This young girl was let down by so many people, in so many ways.
Every person who works with children, in any capacity should read this.
A story that will stay with me for a very long time
December 30, 2022
The Girl with the Pink Shoes was a solid start to a new revenge thriller series and I am looking forward to hooking into the sequel Little Lost Souls.
Lucy is a great main character and her raga bond tribe all very likeable, with well set up back stories.
A quick read with short chapters, it involves a missing girl, the deplorables who prey on children and those who hunt them.
Overall a thrilling 4.5 star read.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Lucy is a great main character and her raga bond tribe all very likeable, with well set up back stories.
A quick read with short chapters, it involves a missing girl, the deplorables who prey on children and those who hunt them.
Overall a thrilling 4.5 star read.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
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February 4, 2023I cannot rate someone's life and definitely not this author's. And if I found this a hard read, I'm guessing her lived experience was a lot harder.
September 12, 2022
It's again a horrible story about sexual abuse and the effects of it. The author has my respect for writing about such a personal, hurtful and cruel experience. Something that will always leave a scar on you, but you survived. And that's what is the important part for me.
Otherwise, the story was heartfelt for me. I'm not a victim of sexual abuse, but I could find a lot of similarities to my own thinking patterns, due to being bullied in school and having no support system from family and others. I could rely on a lot of how Jessica was feeling, even though our trauma is different. But the one thing I learned about trauma a long time ago is, that you can't compare them. Trauma is trauma. It can't be measured, but they have a lot in common. They are damaging to the mind. And often to the body, too. And it isn't easily to overcome that in some way.
Even though I had years between my school time, I still remember the bad things. Not all. Much like Jessica, you just forget some things to protect yourself. But I remember, and it never really left me.
So, I can understand a lot of things. For example, why she didn't tell anyone. I mean, when you searched for help and no one helps you again and again. You kind of learn to think, that it doesn't matter. And you learn to not trust anyone. In the end, you just roll and deal with it. And every scrap of kindness, has a meaning. But if that is ripped apart again and again, too, you became wary of the people around you. Do they really mean it? Is it a trick? Want they really be your friend, or do they only backstab you as soon as they can? And every rejection, when you lost a friend or aren't part of the group, cuts deeper and makes you more careful when someone approach. Because you think it's too good to be true.
As I said. A lot of similarities. And really, I wished I could have helped the girl in the story. Be her friend and find a way for her to escape. And bring those who hurt her to justice fast. But I can't. That's the saddest part about that. Knowing that someone else has lost their childhood to something bad. And you can't change that.
I really hope writing this story helped her and others. And maybe it did prevent in some way, too. Who knows?
Only the ending wasn't good to me. I mean, the most part of her story is really detailed. But the story ends abrupt without disclose what happened. And the epilogue, then. I wanted to know what changed, that Jessica reveal her story. And what is with her mother and brother? Though, I really hope Susan gets her punishment, too.
Overall, I give it 4 stars. Even though the theme is a heavy one.
Otherwise, the story was heartfelt for me. I'm not a victim of sexual abuse, but I could find a lot of similarities to my own thinking patterns, due to being bullied in school and having no support system from family and others. I could rely on a lot of how Jessica was feeling, even though our trauma is different. But the one thing I learned about trauma a long time ago is, that you can't compare them. Trauma is trauma. It can't be measured, but they have a lot in common. They are damaging to the mind. And often to the body, too. And it isn't easily to overcome that in some way.
Even though I had years between my school time, I still remember the bad things. Not all. Much like Jessica, you just forget some things to protect yourself. But I remember, and it never really left me.
So, I can understand a lot of things. For example, why she didn't tell anyone. I mean, when you searched for help and no one helps you again and again. You kind of learn to think, that it doesn't matter. And you learn to not trust anyone. In the end, you just roll and deal with it. And every scrap of kindness, has a meaning. But if that is ripped apart again and again, too, you became wary of the people around you. Do they really mean it? Is it a trick? Want they really be your friend, or do they only backstab you as soon as they can? And every rejection, when you lost a friend or aren't part of the group, cuts deeper and makes you more careful when someone approach. Because you think it's too good to be true.
As I said. A lot of similarities. And really, I wished I could have helped the girl in the story. Be her friend and find a way for her to escape. And bring those who hurt her to justice fast. But I can't. That's the saddest part about that. Knowing that someone else has lost their childhood to something bad. And you can't change that.
I really hope writing this story helped her and others. And maybe it did prevent in some way, too. Who knows?
Only the ending wasn't good to me. I mean, the most part of her story is really detailed. But the story ends abrupt without disclose what happened. And the epilogue, then. I wanted to know what changed, that Jessica reveal her story. And what is with her mother and brother? Though, I really hope Susan gets her punishment, too.
Overall, I give it 4 stars. Even though the theme is a heavy one.
January 9, 2022
Wow. This book was such an emotional read. While it is easily one of the most horrifying things I have ever read, I can completely understand why Jessica needs to tell her story and I believe whole heartedly that this is a story that needs to be heard.
I did have to take regular breaks reading through due to the nature of this book, as the situations that Jessica was put in were so diabolical that I physically had to have a couple of minutes away just to process what I had read.
Jessica tells her story in a to the point way, giving the reader her inner monologue that she was having during these attacks and doesn’t hide the gory details of her ordeal, which is another accolade to how strong she is to tell her story. Going in to such detail, in my opinion, is a step in the right direction of making this a less taboo topic to talk about. Children shouldn’t be made to feel that they can’t speak up about situations like the one Jessica went through; with her publishing her story it is one step closer to bringing the strength to other victims of abuse.
I was infuriated so many times, not only when it came to Shawn (the Devil incarnate, I don’t have the words to describe how I feel about this man, but I will say he makes me wish the Death Penalty was still given out) but also when it came to Jessica’s mother just turning a blind eye to the situation and gaslighting her daughter after torrents of abuse delivered at her hand; and then playing the doting mother when the outside world was involved. Sickening. How any Mother can treat their children in such a way, and let their child be abused, is beyond me and I just don’t have the words to describe how angry this makes me.
I also had a lot of fury aimed at the school staff and the police, so can see why Jessica felt that she had nobody to tell. She was failed over and over and over again, why was nobody noticing what Jessica was going through much sooner? My heart completely goes out to Jessica and I know I’ve already said it but I cannot commend her enough for how strong she is to be telling her story in such detail and letting the world into her life, when as a child she felt that she couldn’t speak to anyone.
All told, this book is excellently written and is an absolute page turner. This story needs to be heard, and if anyone going through anything similar to Jessica happens to stumble upon this book it will absolutely give them the strength to speak up when they feel silenced. An amazing read.
I did have to take regular breaks reading through due to the nature of this book, as the situations that Jessica was put in were so diabolical that I physically had to have a couple of minutes away just to process what I had read.
Jessica tells her story in a to the point way, giving the reader her inner monologue that she was having during these attacks and doesn’t hide the gory details of her ordeal, which is another accolade to how strong she is to tell her story. Going in to such detail, in my opinion, is a step in the right direction of making this a less taboo topic to talk about. Children shouldn’t be made to feel that they can’t speak up about situations like the one Jessica went through; with her publishing her story it is one step closer to bringing the strength to other victims of abuse.
I was infuriated so many times, not only when it came to Shawn (the Devil incarnate, I don’t have the words to describe how I feel about this man, but I will say he makes me wish the Death Penalty was still given out) but also when it came to Jessica’s mother just turning a blind eye to the situation and gaslighting her daughter after torrents of abuse delivered at her hand; and then playing the doting mother when the outside world was involved. Sickening. How any Mother can treat their children in such a way, and let their child be abused, is beyond me and I just don’t have the words to describe how angry this makes me.
I also had a lot of fury aimed at the school staff and the police, so can see why Jessica felt that she had nobody to tell. She was failed over and over and over again, why was nobody noticing what Jessica was going through much sooner? My heart completely goes out to Jessica and I know I’ve already said it but I cannot commend her enough for how strong she is to be telling her story in such detail and letting the world into her life, when as a child she felt that she couldn’t speak to anyone.
All told, this book is excellently written and is an absolute page turner. This story needs to be heard, and if anyone going through anything similar to Jessica happens to stumble upon this book it will absolutely give them the strength to speak up when they feel silenced. An amazing read.
August 4, 2021
I am in absolute awe of this young author, for being able to write about such difficult, personal experiences, and do it in such a way that despite it being a subject that it is easier for most to pretend is not real, she has made the book into a page turner, a real life crime book, with the need to know that there is happier days to come.
I can't quite formulate my thoughts, I'm obviously never going to publish any written work, but I am left with a feeling or horror, sadness, admiration, hope and a wish that the system will change, which I am sure the author will play a major part in working towards. If I was your mum Jessica, I'd be so proud of you and I was so happy to read that Cathy briefly took the place as your mum on your prom night, and said how proud she is of you. You have every reason to hold your head up high, and I will look forward to reading part 2, hoping to find that your abusers will have been punished. Early on in the book you write that you don't feel like a victim, possibly in different words, but I think that is such a strong conviction to have, as I believe you are a survivor more than a victim.
Wishing you all the best.
Lillian Gallagher
I can't quite formulate my thoughts, I'm obviously never going to publish any written work, but I am left with a feeling or horror, sadness, admiration, hope and a wish that the system will change, which I am sure the author will play a major part in working towards. If I was your mum Jessica, I'd be so proud of you and I was so happy to read that Cathy briefly took the place as your mum on your prom night, and said how proud she is of you. You have every reason to hold your head up high, and I will look forward to reading part 2, hoping to find that your abusers will have been punished. Early on in the book you write that you don't feel like a victim, possibly in different words, but I think that is such a strong conviction to have, as I believe you are a survivor more than a victim.
Wishing you all the best.
Lillian Gallagher
February 27, 2022
Argh this is a difficult one to rate. It is between a 3 and a 4. But I almost feel bad for rating it. It is an real account/diary entries of the author's childhood, which was by far from normal. Although it is not the best written, I feel like the content is more important here than the writing style. *TWs/CWs and Spoilers from this point on* - She suffers abuse, rape and neglect by her mother and her new partner, who is a registered pedophile and was caught with photos of children before. Despite his bail conditions being not to live with children, he is cleared to live with Jessica, her mother - who she refers to as Susan (first name), and her brother - who is seen as an angel. Not only is her home life a misery, her school life ain't much better due to lack of friendships and bullying. So much so she attempts to take her own life. If you read this, please be aware of the TWs I have listed here, and so many more. But it is an important read - as I know it happens.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2023
This book was about the author and the child abuse she was raised in. Jessica was ten years old when her mother's boyfriend came into her life. From the first time she met him she didn't like the way he looked at her. Then her mother found out he was a convicted paedophile and was not supposed to be around children. Her mother would become out of control when she drank wine and would beat and kick Jessica and accuse her of stealing her boyfriend. Then the next morning she had no recollection of what she had done and told Jessica she had dreamed this and it wasn't true. She said the same thing when Jessica told her that her stepfather had done things to her that he shouldn't. This treatment went on until she graduated from high school. It is a hard story to read about and as the reader learns more about Jessica and her family you are amazed that no one did anything to rescue Jessica and get her out of this household for so long.
July 14, 2022
Absolutely horrowing. it states that it talks about child sexual abuse and abuse in general and as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse myself I have read a few other stories from survivors which even though are jarring are insightful and usually have a element of hope.
This though is nothing but depraved debauchery detailing the acts of violence in such detail it made me physically sick and I couldn't pass chapter 10. I am guessing this book is independently published because I honestly don't want to believe a reputable publishing house would publish anything so vile.
I couldn't and wouldn't finish this book for all the money in the world and it has affected my mental health so severely that I can not even think of picking up a book that isn't light hearted or funny for at least a month.
If you value your mental health and physical health stay well clear of this book.
This though is nothing but depraved debauchery detailing the acts of violence in such detail it made me physically sick and I couldn't pass chapter 10. I am guessing this book is independently published because I honestly don't want to believe a reputable publishing house would publish anything so vile.
I couldn't and wouldn't finish this book for all the money in the world and it has affected my mental health so severely that I can not even think of picking up a book that isn't light hearted or funny for at least a month.
If you value your mental health and physical health stay well clear of this book.
January 9, 2022
A very difficult read
For someone so young the book is incredibly well written. I've read similar books before and I don't read them because they're so traumatic. I'm glad that Sean was prosecuted but I'd like to have known more about that and more about the blind mice who were prosecuted. It was only touched upon very lightly. Many many parts of this book were really difficult to read because they were so raw and she was so young. Certain points had me almost throw up. It really was harrowing. As someone who survived domestic abuse in the early years of my life, I'm in a position where I count myself lucky that I didn't go through the stuff Jess has been through. I think knowing how Sean ended up on trial/actions that led to trial would have been more satisfactory
For someone so young the book is incredibly well written. I've read similar books before and I don't read them because they're so traumatic. I'm glad that Sean was prosecuted but I'd like to have known more about that and more about the blind mice who were prosecuted. It was only touched upon very lightly. Many many parts of this book were really difficult to read because they were so raw and she was so young. Certain points had me almost throw up. It really was harrowing. As someone who survived domestic abuse in the early years of my life, I'm in a position where I count myself lucky that I didn't go through the stuff Jess has been through. I think knowing how Sean ended up on trial/actions that led to trial would have been more satisfactory
November 25, 2021
The Girl in the Pink Shoes⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I don't usually read books like this , it's too much and a trigger in my own head.Anyway I am glad I did read your book Jessica and I wish you the best of everything and wish everyone in your life now are worthy of your love. It is heartbreaking what on have been put through and it shows how strong you are to stand up for yourself and others. It's not just heartbreaking it's brutal again and again.I recommend people to read this book to see that the devil hasn't got horns ,ordinary people can be the devil and so evil.I hope that now you are happy ,safe and much loved⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I don't usually read books like this , it's too much and a trigger in my own head.Anyway I am glad I did read your book Jessica and I wish you the best of everything and wish everyone in your life now are worthy of your love. It is heartbreaking what on have been put through and it shows how strong you are to stand up for yourself and others. It's not just heartbreaking it's brutal again and again.I recommend people to read this book to see that the devil hasn't got horns ,ordinary people can be the devil and so evil.I hope that now you are happy ,safe and much loved⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 7, 2022
What this lady endured during her childhood is shocking. Hallowing. Horrific. To tell her tale must have cost her emotionally I can’t even imagine.
The story is told from her point of view what she remembers. Heartbreaking read. It starts slightly confusing of who is who. In one part her brother is 4, a couple of pages after he is 3 so I got slightly muddled. The ending was disappointing, but she has stated an other book is coming out this year so I’m hoping for more insight of how everything came to an end, if she spoke up, if she has moved on and how she got there.
Thank u Jessica for your story. How brave and courageous you are.
The story is told from her point of view what she remembers. Heartbreaking read. It starts slightly confusing of who is who. In one part her brother is 4, a couple of pages after he is 3 so I got slightly muddled. The ending was disappointing, but she has stated an other book is coming out this year so I’m hoping for more insight of how everything came to an end, if she spoke up, if she has moved on and how she got there.
Thank u Jessica for your story. How brave and courageous you are.
June 2, 2022
WARNING… book contains descriptions of sexual abuse to a minor..
While I’ve not read a book of this nature for some time (Cathy Glass etc) I could no put this book down…
What Jessica went through in her early years is unbelievable and while I’m aware this does happen and is still going on it’s still hard to read about it in such detail.
This is Jessica’s very own story and if books like this are your kind to read then please go grab a copy or download it.
To Jessica - you’re amazing for dealing with this and publishing it for others to read.. as Cathy told you.. if this book helps one person..
While I’ve not read a book of this nature for some time (Cathy Glass etc) I could no put this book down…
What Jessica went through in her early years is unbelievable and while I’m aware this does happen and is still going on it’s still hard to read about it in such detail.
This is Jessica’s very own story and if books like this are your kind to read then please go grab a copy or download it.
To Jessica - you’re amazing for dealing with this and publishing it for others to read.. as Cathy told you.. if this book helps one person..
August 26, 2021
A must read for all.
As a librarian in a school with vulnerable teenagers, many who are experiencing this or have had previous experience of this I found this to be very moving, an eye opener and has altered my view on how these students must be feeling. I would recommend this book to all who come into contact with vulnerable young people as the horrendous chain of events detailed will completely change the way you handle situations and the support you offer. Thank you Jessica for sharing your story with the world.
As a librarian in a school with vulnerable teenagers, many who are experiencing this or have had previous experience of this I found this to be very moving, an eye opener and has altered my view on how these students must be feeling. I would recommend this book to all who come into contact with vulnerable young people as the horrendous chain of events detailed will completely change the way you handle situations and the support you offer. Thank you Jessica for sharing your story with the world.
November 23, 2021
A terrible yet informative tale
We all read about child abuse in the papers but this is the story of one such girl . It isn't badly written.
It is almost incomprehensible how these girls, like beaten wives, defend their abusers and don't come clean about everything they've suffered. It seems to happen all too often.
This book seems to rush to the end without really explaining what happened. There are hints in the book that the author escaped from this dreadful life and is now happy bit we aren't told how.
Not a comfortable read but a sobering one.
We all read about child abuse in the papers but this is the story of one such girl . It isn't badly written.
It is almost incomprehensible how these girls, like beaten wives, defend their abusers and don't come clean about everything they've suffered. It seems to happen all too often.
This book seems to rush to the end without really explaining what happened. There are hints in the book that the author escaped from this dreadful life and is now happy bit we aren't told how.
Not a comfortable read but a sobering one.
February 26, 2022
Such a brave thing to do; tell this horrifying story of such awful abuse. Even as I write the words “horrifying” and “awful” I realise they do not convey just how terrible this poor girl’s life was. I would urge anyone who works in childcare, social services or foster care to read this, as Jessica’s story portrays just how let down she was by these settings and what may have seemed like nothing or flippant remarks or reactions to them could have helped rather than hindered her. Very well written and highly recommended. P.s we share the same surname but are not related.
June 28, 2025
I had to stop reading at page 123 because the content is so disturbing and upsetting. I’m still giving it 5 stars in the hope that any proceeds support Jessica directly.
This story is a devastating reminder of how many vile people exist in the world, and how a child can suffer at the hands of adults who should have protected her. Some people just shouldn’t be allowed children.
I hope Jessica has found peace and healing. To all those responsible for her pain, I hope karma has delivered what’s due.
This story is a devastating reminder of how many vile people exist in the world, and how a child can suffer at the hands of adults who should have protected her. Some people just shouldn’t be allowed children.
I hope Jessica has found peace and healing. To all those responsible for her pain, I hope karma has delivered what’s due.
July 19, 2022
I enjoyed the book, it was something close to my own heart and what I went through as a child, so I cried a lot reading this. Jessica is a brave young lady and an inspiration to everyone, well done to her for sharing this story.
There were quite a few editing issues which annoyed me a little and the ending was odd. So how did he get caught, what happened to him etc? I know Jessica is writing another book, so hoping that it’s a sequel and we find out a bit more.
There were quite a few editing issues which annoyed me a little and the ending was odd. So how did he get caught, what happened to him etc? I know Jessica is writing another book, so hoping that it’s a sequel and we find out a bit more.
September 25, 2022
Wow this is a brilliant book but heartbreaking. It is not for the faint hearted as it details the abuse Jessica suffered from her stepdad and other paedophiles. I had tears in my eyes in places when reading this. I can't believe what Jessica went through and the people who let her down so badly, I was so angry at them.
I definitely recommend reading this book.
Thank you Jessica for sharing your story with us.
I definitely recommend reading this book.
Thank you Jessica for sharing your story with us.
December 25, 2022
I got the amazing opportunity to read this phenomenal book in an ARC
All I can say is WOW!
This book definitely kept me on my toes.
My brain trying to figure out the kidnapper!
Lucy is one heck of a PI and with the help of her new found friends they solved the mystery and put the bad person behind bars.
Definitely looking forward to more of Lucy in the next chapters of these books.
A definite 5 star for me!
All I can say is WOW!
This book definitely kept me on my toes.
My brain trying to figure out the kidnapper!
Lucy is one heck of a PI and with the help of her new found friends they solved the mystery and put the bad person behind bars.
Definitely looking forward to more of Lucy in the next chapters of these books.
A definite 5 star for me!
July 22, 2024
A heartbreaking story of abuse Jessica went through.the people who were meant to love and protect Jessica hurt her and disappeared out of her life.im glad Jessica was able to share her story this will help others come forward and help them to feel they can share their stories as survivours they should never blame themselves these adults knew exactly what they were doing Thank you Jessica for sharing your story you deserve love and happiness <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2021
Jessica Harrington is a brilliant story teller. At some moments in this book I felt I was living in her shoes. I finished the book in two days as I couldn’t put it down. She left me wanting more! I hope there is another book on her life after the abuse ended and all the amazing things she has/is accomplishing.
August 1, 2021
This book is harrowing in its content the more because it is a true story. It is set in Cornwall where this girl was living and describes how she suffered mental, physical and sexual abuse by people who were supposed to be caring for her. She also endured bullying at school and was subsequently groomed .
August 16, 2021
This was truly the most horrific thing I have ever read in my life. It will make you cry, it might even make you sick. The heart ache you’ll feel for the person telling the story is like no other. It breaks my heart that this is true and really happened. Please check trigger warnings before reading.
August 23, 2021
Very brave
Well written and incredibly brave. It was a harrowing read and I spent most of it in tears.
I would have liked to have known more about how it all came to light and how Shawn ended up in court, or how she found her brother. What happened to her Mum?
Very courageous I wish Jessica all the happiness in the world .
Well written and incredibly brave. It was a harrowing read and I spent most of it in tears.
I would have liked to have known more about how it all came to light and how Shawn ended up in court, or how she found her brother. What happened to her Mum?
Very courageous I wish Jessica all the happiness in the world .
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