Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Cat has not yet shared in Dr. Marlowe's therapy group, but she has the darkest secret of all four girls and the most to lose by opening up.

160 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1999

17 people are currently reading
2281 people want to read

About the author

V.C. Andrews

370 books9,099 followers
Books published under the following names - Virginia Andrews, V. Andrews, Virginia C. Andrews & V.C. Endrius. Books since her death ghost written by Andrew Neiderman, but still attributed to the V.C. Andrews name

Virginia Cleo Andrews (born Cleo Virginia Andrews) was born June 6, 1923 in Portsmouth, Virginia. The youngest child and the only daughter of William Henry Andrews, a career navy man who opened a tool-and-die business after retirement, and Lillian Lilnora Parker Andrews, a telephone operator. She spent her happy childhood years in Portsmouth, Virginia, living briefly in Rochester, New York. The Andrews family returned to Portsmouth while Virginia was in high school.

While a teenager, Virginia suffered a tragic accident, falling down the stairs at her school and incurred severe back injuries. Arthritis and a failed spinal surgical procedure forced her to spend most of her life on crutches or in a wheelchair.

Virginia excelled in school and, at fifteen, won a scholarship for writing a parody of Tennyson's Idylls of the King. She proudly earned her diploma from Woodrow Wilson High School in Portsmouth. After graduation, she nurtured her artistic talent by completing a four-year correspondence art course while living at home with her family.

After William Andrews died in the late 1960s, Virginia helped to support herself and her mother through her extremely successful career as a commercial artist, portrait painter, and fashion illustrator.

Frustrated with the lack of creative satisfaction that her work provided, Virginia sought creative release through writing, which she did in secret. In 1972, she completed her first novel, The Gods of the Green Mountain [sic], a science-fantasy story. It was never published. Between 1972 and 1979, she wrote nine novels and twenty short stories, of which only one was published. "I Slept with My Uncle on My Wedding Night", a short fiction piece, was published in a pulp confession magazine.

Promise gleamed over the horizon for Virginia when she submitted a 290,000-word novel, The Obsessed, to a publishing company. She was told that the story had potential, but needed to be trimmed and spiced up a bit. She drafted a new outline in a single night and added "unspeakable things my mother didn't want me to write about." The ninety-eight-page revision was re-titled Flowers in the Attic and she was paid a $7,500 advance. Her new-generation Gothic novel reached the bestseller lists a mere two weeks after its 1979 paperback publication by Pocket Books.

Petals on the Wind, her sequel to Flowers, was published the next year, earning Virginia a $35,000 advance. The second book remained on the New York Times bestseller list for an unbelievable nineteen weeks (Flowers also returned to the list). These first two novels alone sold over seven million copies in only two years. The third novel of the Dollanganger series, If There Be Thorns, was released in 1981, bringing Virginia a $75,000 advance. It reached No. 2 on many bestseller lists within its first two weeks.

Taking a break from the chronicles of Chris and Cathy Dollanganger, Virginia published her one, and only, stand-alone novel, My Sweet Audrina, in 1982. The book welcomed an immediate success, topping the sales figures of her previous novels. Two years later, a fourth Dollanganger novel was released, Seeds of Yesterday. According to the New York Times, Seeds was the best-selling fiction paperback novel of 1984. Also in 1984, V.C. Andrews was named "Professional Woman of the Year" by the city of Norfolk, Virginia.

Upon Andrews's death in 1986, two final novels—Garden of Shadows and Fallen Hearts—were published. These two novels are considered the last to bear the "V.C. Andrews" name and to be almost completely written by

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
1,131 (32%)
4 stars
976 (27%)
3 stars
1,006 (28%)
2 stars
333 (9%)
1 star
87 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
Profile Image for Athena (OneReadingNurse).
974 reviews141 followers
July 15, 2019
I found this book left behind by a renter. I flipped through it in well under two hours, while skimming parts. On one other occasion I flipped through a VC Andrews book, something about a family of kids locked in the attic forever and they got ... Involved.

This had similar vibes - disturbing with major daddy problems. I think "how can anyone write this?" I am just not a fan of her writing style or anything about this book. The parents are as psychologically damaged as the kids, and I didn't feel much for the main character because naive or not, don't you at some point realize the behavior is wrong? The poor girl did have a lot of issues coming at her though but seriously, it's too much for me.
Profile Image for Lexy.
1,093 reviews35 followers
February 23, 2018
I thought this book was better than the first three books because it got me sucked in to the books.
Profile Image for Krystal Ayers.
224 reviews7 followers
May 21, 2021
This was a short read and honestly could have been longer thatn Misty's from the beginning because it had more issues to deal with. It had her father who raped and molested her, the fact that her mother is actually her sister, and that she's adopted. The sister and adopted part was glazed over at the end and deserved more to it. Cat definitely went through hell and I can understand why she would be so confused when her father was doing those things to her. They make them seem like they are loving and doing it for their own good. Poor Cat and poor children who go through this. Just terrible. The series for this is over but I wish for a later novel of all the girls, grown, and how they are doing as adults.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kelly Gunderman.
Author 2 books78 followers
December 13, 2018
Check out this, other reviews, and more fun bookish things on my young adult book blog, Here's to Happy Endings!

Cat is another one of those books that just seemed to take me forever to sit down and write a review for. I'm not sure why; it was a really good book, and I enjoyed Cat's story, much like the others, but for some reason, reviewing these books has just been kind of difficult. I honestly think that it might be because I obviously don't want to spoil anything for potential readers (you all know how I am about spoilers in my reviews by now), but it's kind of hard, since so much of the previous stories lead into the next one, and so on.

"How is a garden prepared and cultivated to grow black flowers full of thorns and poison? That was where I had found myself planted."


Cat is the last story in the miniseries before we get to the final book - she is the girl who sat down patiently and quietly, listening to the other three girls tell their stories first.

In the synopsis for Cat, we learn that out of all the girls' secrets, Cat's is going to be the darkest. I will definitely give the book credit for that - Cat's secret is really, really dark. It was fitting that her secret was so dark, though, because it added a new depth to the entire series. I don't want to go into everything in too much detail, but it isn't something that I saw coming!

"When you can lie to yourself, you can hide behind a mask and go out into the world. You don't feel as naked or as exposed."


Cat is number four out of the group of girls to tell her story: the other three have already told theirs to each other and to Doctor Marlowe, while Cat was the quiet and observant one. Now, she is beginning her tale.

At first, it begins innocently enough - her parents, especially her mother, are strict, not allowing Cat to wear makeup or any clothing that might be revealing in any way, nor is she permitted to have friends over or do anything social (including dances and dates). Her father, however, is always paying special attention to Cat, going against her mother's wishes and helping her live like her peers. As time goes on, Cat's father's intentions no longer seem quite as innocent, and Cat has a hard time talking about it to the other girls. She does feel safe with them, though, and eventually tells her entire story - even the worst parts imaginable.

"We were doing what Doctor Marlow had intended: we were changing each other as we changed ourselves. Like sisters related not through blood but through adversity and turmoil, we gathers around each other and warmed each other with our mutual pain and fear. Together, we would help each other kill the demons."


Cat's story was probably my second favorite out of the four - I really love Jade's, but this one was good, too. It was incredibly dark, though, and I didn't really realize that it was going to go the route that it did before I started the book. Sure, it made for an interesting story, and because of how deep it went I felt like I was really able to get to know Cat better, to hear her problems and really feel for her. She was a very interesting character, very complex and well written.

Cat's story was a great addition to the others, and I felt the tension building throughout the entire book until we got to the revelation of what was happening in Cat's life. Secrets (oh the secrets!) were unveiled, and it was such a drama filled novel that I couldn't put this down. I finished it in one sitting and was completely shocked by that ending.

Have you followed my reviews of the rest of the Wildflowers series? If not, check out my reviews for Misty, Star, and Jade!
Profile Image for Keshia.
109 reviews
February 2, 2013
Overall I found Cat's story to be the best of this series. Cat as a character was more relatable than any of the other girls, and her faults are what make her this way. Her story was more complicated than the others too and not only did that make the story itself more enjoyable, but it also made me more emotionally connected to Cat. Not to mention there was a surprise in the ending that I in no way saw coming at all. I like books such as these.

I enjoyed this series and for anyone who is reading it and starts with Misty, I would like to say keep going even if you didn't enjoy the first, because it does get better. Much better.
Profile Image for Adriana.
41 reviews
Read
June 23, 2011
Wow!!! What her parents did to her is so horrible that I'm not going to say it! Read the series!! It's about these 4 girls that have been treated badly by their parents. They all go together to one therapist and eah book is from a different girl's point of view and in that book she's telling her story about what her parents made her go through during their divorce and about all the people who took advantage of her. I'm missing the second book Star but all the others make sense without reading it.
Profile Image for Sarah Jensen.
2,090 reviews184 followers
Read
April 1, 2025
Book Review: Cat by V.C. Andrews

Cat, the fourth installment in V.C. Andrews’ Wildflowers series, published in 1999, concludes the narrative arc of the four central characters introduced in the series: Misty, Star, and Jade. This novel shifts its focus to Cat, a character whose journey through trauma, betrayal, and self-discovery encapsulates the recurring themes of the series while also providing a distinct voice and perspective.

Narrative Structure and Style
Andrews employs a first-person narrative style in Cat, allowing readers to gain direct insight into Cat’s thoughts, feelings, and motivations. The novel is structured to alternate between Cat’s present-day challenges and critical flashbacks that reveal her tumultuous past, particularly her complicated relationships with family and friends. Andrews’ prose is richly descriptive, capturing both the beauty and darkness of Cat’s experiences, effectively conveying her emotional state throughout the narrative.

The pacing of the novel is well-crafted, with tension building as Cat contends with the consequences of her past decisions and the dynamics within her friendships. Andrews skillfully weaves together elements of suspense and emotional depth, creating a narrative that resonates with readers on multiple levels.

Character Development
Cat is portrayed as a complex character, grappling with her identity in the shadow of her difficult upbringing. The novel explores her experiences with familial neglect and the longing for acceptance, which profoundly shape her worldview. As she interacts with her friends and navigates conflicts, Cat’s character reveals both strength and fragility, highlighting the dualities often present in individuals who have faced significant adversity.

The supporting characters, including her fellow Wildflowers, further enrich the narrative. Their relationships with Cat are pivotal, showcasing themes of loyalty, jealousy, and the complexities of friendship. Through these interactions, Andrews emphasizes the importance of connection and understanding, even amidst betrayal. The evolution of Cat’s relationships underscores her personal growth as she learns to confront her past and assert her own identity.

Themes of Trauma and Self-Discovery
A central theme in Cat is the exploration of trauma and its enduring effects on personal identity. Cat’s experiences of neglect and emotional turmoil echo the struggles faced by the previous characters in the series, reinforcing the notion that trauma can shape one’s life in profound ways. Andrews delves into the psychological ramifications of Cat’s past, illustrating how these experiences impact her relationships and self-perception.

The theme of self-discovery is equally significant in this narrative. As Cat confronts the ghosts of her past and the realities of her present, she embarks on a journey toward self-acceptance and empowerment. This quest for identity resonates strongly within the context of young adult literature, providing a powerful message about the importance of resilience and the possibility of transformation.

Societal Context and Educational Implications
Cat addresses several societal issues, including the impact of familial dysfunction, the nature of friendship, and the complexities of mental health. These themes create opportunities for educational discussions regarding the psychological effects of trauma and the importance of empathy and support in interpersonal relationships. By engaging with these topics, Andrews encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and the broader societal implications of the characters’ struggles.

Conclusion
In conclusion, V.C. Andrews’ Cat serves as a poignant exploration of trauma, identity, and the quest for acceptance within the Wildflowers series. Through Cat’s journey, Andrews crafts a compelling narrative that resonates with themes of resilience and self-discovery. The novel stands as a significant contribution to the series, effectively tying together the experiences of the Wildflowers while illuminating the unique challenges faced by Cat. By addressing complex emotional and psychological themes, Cat not only engages readers but also encourages them to consider the intricacies of personal growth against a backdrop of adversity, making it a noteworthy addition to Andrews’ body of work.
Profile Image for Jess Swann.
Author 13 books22 followers
April 9, 2019
Après les mises en bouche des tomes précédents, nous retrouvons Cat qui a sans doute l'histoire la plus dramatique de toutes. Entre une mère froide et obsédée par le ménage et les usages ( qui ressemble furieusement à certaines grand-mères déjà croisées dans les précédentes sagas) et un père beaucoup trop investi dans l'éducation (sexuelle) de sa fifille, Cat a de quoi être malheureuse... Je ne spoile pas en disant qu'on avait vu arriver depuis plusieurs tomes sur l'histoire de Cat (en même temps, le père abusif on l'attendait, connaissant la franchise). Du coup, la seule question que l'on se pose c'est : comment il s'y est pris ? Je reconnais que c'est insidieux mais il me semble l'avoir déjà lu dans une saga précédente, de fait, je n'ai pas été surprise. Cependant, cela reste crédible. J'ai beaucoup apprécié les réactions des trois autres filles et le fait que leurs liens se resserrent, du coup j'ai hâte de lire le dernier tome pour voir où l'auteur voulait en arriver


Ce que j'aime : le récit de Cat, classique mais insidieux


Ce que j'aime moins : encore une fois le manque de surprise


En bref : Un roman qui aborde un sujet grave de manière délicate mais qui ne peut pas s'empêcher de tomber dans certains écueils de la franchise


Ma note


7,5/10
Profile Image for Fyre.Katz.
817 reviews24 followers
September 12, 2017
Completion Post: 9/12
Week # 1 Title starts with a "C"
Cat (The Wildflowers #4) By: V.C. Andrews
Rating (1-5): 3
Review : This is Cathy story on why she is an Orphan with Parents and why she fits into the group of girls with similar problems as her own. Her mother shelters her from the world and make Cat even feel shameful about her body and the things she feels and her dad... well he is a big problem (which I won't tell ya in this) The girls act like what you would think girls would act talking to their psychologist and this is Cathy's day to tell the others why she is here. I gave it a 3 because I think I need a V.C. Andrews break- a lot of the ghostwriter's writing style and plots are the same now a days! So there ya go- first week is done YAY!
Profile Image for Monica.
336 reviews14 followers
October 27, 2020
Typical V.C. Andrews.

Fluid storytelling, scandalous to me when I first read her in my teenage years, the trauma and shock that Andrews is known for has become a bit predictable. While still uncomfortable and disturbing, this particular book left me feeling blase about the whole thing. Does this mean that I have become callous and uncaring? Does this mean I am outgrowing Ms. Andrews' writing? I hope not and more so that the Wildflowers series was not her strongest. Only way for me to find out is to keep reading I guess.......
Profile Image for Vanna.
984 reviews16 followers
December 23, 2020
4/5

The best novel out of Wildflowers! I felt really bad for Cat, not just for her family situation but the rudeness she endured with those fucking girls. They kept on interrupting her and not being patient, despite her being quite open and talkative about her situation. The only one that wasn't so bad was Misty.

This book was also just a lot more interesting than the other three. It was more sympathetic also.
12 reviews
April 5, 2018
You can definitely feel the feelings that Cat has in this small book. The author does a great job with putting you into her eyes and feel the way she's feeling. If you are triggered by non-consensual sex and abuse, either be cautious for yourself while reading or don't read this particular part in the series. Overall, I enjoyed it and can't wait to continue on in the series.
Profile Image for Jasmine Dorsett.
139 reviews2 followers
July 19, 2017
This book was very hard to finish. Not because it was bad. I just knew what was coming before it happened. VC Andrews used to surprise the reader, and throw turns in the story yoy would never see coming. This one was just kind of disappointing.
Profile Image for kia.
142 reviews21 followers
September 4, 2019
Boring. The girls' bickering were more annoying than the previous books. It's a shame that even though Cat's past was actually the most intriguing, it seemed like the ghost writer was forced to just get on with the whole instalment.
Profile Image for Christy Tubbs.
1 review
August 6, 2017
Love it

This book is very good it handles real problems with class . Cats struggles are very real and handles with care
Profile Image for Nessa.
1,858 reviews70 followers
October 14, 2018
I read this series many years ago, I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish.
Profile Image for Adam Martinez.
42 reviews1 follower
December 19, 2019
Probably the better of the first four books. It was a good story but I had just read type of family drama in most VC Andrews books..
Profile Image for Matchbook.
269 reviews9 followers
February 9, 2021
I got this weird urge to read this because I was obsessed with VC when I was in high school. All I can say is that was a weird bleeping book.
Profile Image for kitty.
9 reviews
June 26, 2022
when i first read this i was sooo confused ab the sister being her mother storyline ngl but they talk about it more in the bigger novel that follows
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for NoirReader.
78 reviews
October 7, 2022
Dayum. So Cat's story definitely seems to be the most f**ked up of all the f**ked up stories. Wow.
2 reviews4 followers
January 25, 2023
Did not see that ending coming at all! Still shocked! Best of the series so far.
Profile Image for SJ.
25 reviews
January 30, 2023
classic v.c. andrews. best novella of the 4
Profile Image for Marcos “MSMDragon”.
636 reviews20 followers
July 4, 2023
This one made me sick to my stomach. Collectively the four therapy sessions have been okay but some of the topics are quite triggering.
Profile Image for Itske Bannink.
60 reviews
December 14, 2023
This was the hardest one to swallow. And lets be honest, WHO SAW THE PLOTTWIST COMING?! LIKE HOLY ****
Profile Image for Sara G.
1,347 reviews24 followers
June 19, 2021
What does it say about me that I knew where Cat's story was going to go from her first appearance in Misty's book? I feel like this should have been fleshed out more, honestly. The story is difficult and traumatic, but it doesn't feel as genuine as Jade's or Star's, nor does it pull you in. I still think it's better than Misty's (and Jade's in some aspects), but it's just... a bit off.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.