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abbyreads2's review
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Majority of the book was me yelling at the main character, I mean I understand why she acted the way she did but it was still a hard read and seeing her make bad decisions after another, risking her relationships with her friends. One thing that bothered me though was that we never got to see if he did the same to his own daughter, one of her friends.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Drug use, Pedophilia, Rape, Sexual assault, and Alcohol
Moderate: Alcoholism, Sexism, Suicidal thoughts, and Toxic friendship
Minor: Addiction and Abortion
cowboylikemeagan's review against another edition
dark
emotional
sad
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I saw someone describe Ever Since as "a gut punch of a book" and it really is the perfect description. In the wake of finishing it, I'm struggling to put into words how important this book feels and how much it impacted me. It is an astounding debut, and it handles the difficult topic of sexual trauma in a way that is both delicate and real. The inclusion of myth and the theme of the power of storytelling was well woven throughout the book. I loved the characters, flawed as they were.
This is by no means an easy read though. I cried a lot. I thought a lot. But this is easily the best book I've read this year so far (I know, it's only two months) but I think it will be hard to top. Regardless, Alena Bruzas has earned a fan for life in me and I can't wait for her next release (which happens to be later this year!).
This is by no means an easy read though. I cried a lot. I thought a lot. But this is easily the best book I've read this year so far (I know, it's only two months) but I think it will be hard to top. Regardless, Alena Bruzas has earned a fan for life in me and I can't wait for her next release (which happens to be later this year!).
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Sexual assault, and Sexual harassment
Moderate: Alcoholism and Suicidal thoughts
Minor: Transphobia and Abortion
daniellereadslikealot_'s review
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
What an absolutely beautiful gut punch of a book. It was so easy to fall deeply into this story, as hard as its subject material was to read. The way sexual assault and consent are portrayed in this book are so unbelievably well done. Virginia was a magnificent character. She will stay with me for a very long time. I loved the little vignettes of mythology, especially Medea’s story. It really emphasized how society loves to change women’s stories to fit their narrative or to elevate the male gaze and perspective. I really loved Ro and Lyra so much as secondary characters. As much as I wish books like these weren’t necessary, I’m so glad this one exists in the world. I cried several times and I cannot wait to read what Bruzas writes next. Also, don’t miss the author’s note and please make sure you’re in the best mental health space to read this book. It does not pull punches and rightfully so.
CW: rape, sexual assault, grooming, drug use, underage drinking, infidelity, transphobia, slut shaming, child neglect, pedophilia, homophobia, violence, alcoholism, suicidal ideation
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infidelity, Rape, Sexual assault, and Sexual content
Moderate: Alcoholism, Drug use, Pedophilia, Suicidal thoughts, and Violence
Minor: Homophobia, Transphobia, and Death of parent
kkjager99's review
challenging
emotional
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Child abuse, Drug abuse, Physical abuse, and Sexual assault
cmnielsen89's review against another edition
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Child abuse, Pedophilia, Rape, and Suicidal thoughts
audacity's review
challenging
dark
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
3.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Alcoholism, Child abuse, Sexual assault, and Transphobia
Minor: Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, and Vomit
thewordsdevourer's review
challenging
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
*Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC
Ever Since is a tough but ultimately rewarding read about realistic, messy characters that takes place over the course of their last summer in high school, a story of abuse and finding one's voice that is needed but will no doubt be challenging a read to many.
The novel, above all else, illustrates the impact of abuse and trauma, the endless cycle or harm and revictimization, and poses the question of how said cycle could ever be broken, when the victim is also so broken. It also effectively depicts the power of safe space: how the existence of one is akin to a lifesaving anchor, and the contrary perpetuates harm. We always hear about how important it is especially for young people to have a safe roof over their heads, and never have I seen this shown so well in a novel as Bruzas does in her book here.
The majority of characters are multidimensional and messy, especially the main character Virginia, but understandably so, particulatly when their circumstances are shed light on towards the end of the story. Nevertheless, understanding the root of Virginia's destructive actions - both unto herself and her supposed dear ones - does not make it any easier to read. On the contrary, I am personally frustrated by the 'hurt people hurt people' adage so encapsulated in the book, knowing it hurts Virginia more than anyone to do what she does, but seemingly impossible to stop doing so.
Which leads to one of my caveats with the novel: it is never explained - at least clearly or in detail - why many of Virginia's harmful actions are done towards the proclaimed important people in her life. Being abused and traumatized make it understandable but not wholly innocent. In my opinion, Virginia should have taken more accountability about the things she did that hurt her friends, because it seems like she gets off scot-free; being a victim does not make her actions absolvable in themselves.
I also think the change in Virginia's psyche and her sense of self-worth is too sudden, finding her voice in one chapter then suddenly feeling invincible the next, when her growth could be a little more scattered throughout. As for the writing, there are definitely powerful moments that are searing and visceral - especially towards the end - but for the most part the short, choppy sentences and frequent breaks in paragraphs read a little juvenile and affect the pacing, though this could have been done to show Virginia's inner psyche.
All in all, Ever Since is a well-intentioned and compelling book whose story may prove challenging to many. The novel is ultimately rewarding, but it is a tough road getting there, especially with some uneven execution.
Ever Since is a tough but ultimately rewarding read about realistic, messy characters that takes place over the course of their last summer in high school, a story of abuse and finding one's voice that is needed but will no doubt be challenging a read to many.
The novel, above all else, illustrates the impact of abuse and trauma, the endless cycle or harm and revictimization, and poses the question of how said cycle could ever be broken, when the victim is also so broken. It also effectively depicts the power of safe space: how the existence of one is akin to a lifesaving anchor, and the contrary perpetuates harm. We always hear about how important it is especially for young people to have a safe roof over their heads, and never have I seen this shown so well in a novel as Bruzas does in her book here.
The majority of characters are multidimensional and messy, especially the main character Virginia, but understandably so, particulatly when their circumstances are shed light on towards the end of the story. Nevertheless, understanding the root of Virginia's destructive actions - both unto herself and her supposed dear ones - does not make it any easier to read. On the contrary, I am personally frustrated by the 'hurt people hurt people' adage so encapsulated in the book, knowing it hurts Virginia more than anyone to do what she does, but seemingly impossible to stop doing so.
Which leads to one of my caveats with the novel: it is never explained - at least clearly or in detail - why many of Virginia's harmful actions are done towards the proclaimed important people in her life. Being abused and traumatized make it understandable but not wholly innocent. In my opinion, Virginia should have taken more accountability about the things she did that hurt her friends, because it seems like she gets off scot-free; being a victim does not make her actions absolvable in themselves.
I also think the change in Virginia's psyche and her sense of self-worth is too sudden, finding her voice in one chapter then suddenly feeling invincible the next, when her growth could be a little more scattered throughout. As for the writing, there are definitely powerful moments that are searing and visceral - especially towards the end - but for the most part the short, choppy sentences and frequent breaks in paragraphs read a little juvenile and affect the pacing, though this could have been done to show Virginia's inner psyche.
All in all, Ever Since is a well-intentioned and compelling book whose story may prove challenging to many. The novel is ultimately rewarding, but it is a tough road getting there, especially with some uneven execution.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Domestic abuse, Infidelity, Mental illness, Misogyny, Pedophilia, Sexism, Sexual assault, Sexual content, Toxic relationship, Toxic friendship, and Alcohol
Moderate: Alcoholism, Panic attacks/disorders, Racism, Rape, Suicidal thoughts, Death of parent, and Sexual harassment
Minor: Transphobia and Abortion
prisoner_of_books's review
challenging
emotional
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
4.5 stars
Content warning: Contains descriptions of sexual assault, child sexual abuse, suicidal ideation, and drug and alcohol use/abuse.*
This story is a beautifully heartbreaking debut about abuse, trauma and the power of finding your voice. This story featured domestic and sexual abuse, slut shaming, victim blaming, and grooming. They are some heavy topics, but if you can deal with them, I highly recommend checking out this book.
Five friends whose lives are filled with real love, betrayal, heartbreak, and secrets unfolding. It all started when one friend, Poppy left without a word. Then Virginia our the mc found out that a little girl was being groomed. This book shows how the effects of abuse never really leave you. How shattered your life can feel and how messed up your perception of consent is.
At first I was confused by Virginia's decisions. But this book really opened my eyes.
I haven’t experienced anything like the topics in this book but I feel like this is definitely a realistic portrayal of abuse and the affects that last a lifetime. The decisions she made were all impacted by her trauma and the feelings that never went away. There were a lot of scenes in this book that I could feel the truth and led me to understand a lot of things.
Another thing I loved was the portrayal of friendship and the bond that was shaken but still stayed strong. I also loved the inclusions of the mythological stories and how the story of Circe was weaved into this one. I find it hard to write a review about this book, but I truly felt the story and it was emotional, raw and just an very important story with an important message about finding your voice and the impact it has on others.
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Rocky Pond books (Penguin) and the author of this advanced copy of the book in return for my honest review.
Content warning: Contains descriptions of sexual assault, child sexual abuse, suicidal ideation, and drug and alcohol use/abuse.*
This story is a beautifully heartbreaking debut about abuse, trauma and the power of finding your voice. This story featured domestic and sexual abuse, slut shaming, victim blaming, and grooming. They are some heavy topics, but if you can deal with them, I highly recommend checking out this book.
Five friends whose lives are filled with real love, betrayal, heartbreak, and secrets unfolding. It all started when one friend, Poppy left without a word. Then Virginia our the mc found out that a little girl was being groomed. This book shows how the effects of abuse never really leave you. How shattered your life can feel and how messed up your perception of consent is.
At first I was confused by Virginia's decisions. But this book really opened my eyes.
I haven’t experienced anything like the topics in this book but I feel like this is definitely a realistic portrayal of abuse and the affects that last a lifetime. The decisions she made were all impacted by her trauma and the feelings that never went away. There were a lot of scenes in this book that I could feel the truth and led me to understand a lot of things.
Another thing I loved was the portrayal of friendship and the bond that was shaken but still stayed strong. I also loved the inclusions of the mythological stories and how the story of Circe was weaved into this one. I find it hard to write a review about this book, but I truly felt the story and it was emotional, raw and just an very important story with an important message about finding your voice and the impact it has on others.
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Rocky Pond books (Penguin) and the author of this advanced copy of the book in return for my honest review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Child abuse, Drug abuse, and Sexual assault
Moderate: Suicidal thoughts
bookedbymadeline's review against another edition
dark
emotional
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Young Readers for the eARC! All opinions expressed are my own.
Wow this was a powerful, heartbreaking, emotional novel! The writing was beautiful and lyrical which pulled me in right away and held my attention; I was so drawn in that I didn’t notice the passing of time or how many pages I’d read. The writing style using repetitive phrasing was also a great demonstration of spiraling thoughts and anxiety/panic attacks especially for someone dealing with the aftermath of trauma.
I loved the characters for the most part, they had a lot of ups and downs with each other but their friendships and character development was excellent! Throughout the book, the MC Virginia also weaves in stories of powerful women in mythology such as Medea and Sita. I thought this was an interesting way to show the growing power Virginia has in using her voice!
Overall a heavy novel but wonderfully written and I think also an important story. Ever Since is definitely a contender for fave of the month and I can’t wait to add a physical copy to my shelves!
Additional TW/CW: child sexual abuse, grooming, underage drinking, neglect
Additional TW/CW: child sexual abuse, grooming, underage drinking, neglect
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Bullying, Child abuse, Drug abuse, Panic attacks/disorders, Sexual assault, Sexual content, Suicidal thoughts, and Death of parent
Moderate: Domestic abuse and Infidelity
Minor: Homophobia, Transphobia, and Violence
gracieoneill's review
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Young Readers Group for sending me a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book...was intense. The trigger warnings that Alena Bruzas provides are not to be taken lightly and though the topics (SA, CSA, grooming, suicidal ideation) are difficult to read about, she handles with them all the care they deserve.
First off — the story is mixed in with tellings, retellings, and reimagining of famous myths surrounding infamous women. This was genius, in my opinion and one of my favorite choices that Bruzas made. It gives us such an insight into our main character, Virginia. Of how she views the world, of how she views herself, of how she knows others views her. It gives her a chance to attempt to rewrite her own story, but the cruelty of the world still bleeds through the pages and through her writings. The choice to have these retellings between each chapter was a perfect one, in my opinion.
The plot itself was messy, as one would expect about a 17-year-old going through massive trauma. It was painful to read at points — I found myself frustrated with Virginia, her friends, the adults in her life, and just about every character. But, again, it's reflective of how life actually is. People aren't just a bunch of positive and negative traits neatly lined up. People make mistakes, lash out, and hide their pain through self-medication. There were moments and plot points that read very realistic and true and others that felt a bit far fetched.
For me, personally, the reason I only rate it a 3.5 is the writing style. Bruzas is a fantastic writer and I'm very excited to watch her career. It's stream of conscious writing which I personally can find a little hard to read. It took me a while to actually get invested in our characters because of this. This is my own personal preference within books and I don't think it's a reason to avoid this novel or not read it. Just something to know going in, if you're anything like me.
But, overall, this was a very strong debut and is an incredibly important addition to the YA collection — both in general but also as one that focusing on SA and CSA. I would recommend this to folks so long as they head the trigger warnings and understand the writing style.
This book...was intense. The trigger warnings that Alena Bruzas provides are not to be taken lightly and though the topics (SA, CSA, grooming, suicidal ideation) are difficult to read about, she handles with them all the care they deserve.
First off — the story is mixed in with tellings, retellings, and reimagining of famous myths surrounding infamous women. This was genius, in my opinion and one of my favorite choices that Bruzas made. It gives us such an insight into our main character, Virginia. Of how she views the world, of how she views herself, of how she knows others views her. It gives her a chance to attempt to rewrite her own story, but the cruelty of the world still bleeds through the pages and through her writings. The choice to have these retellings between each chapter was a perfect one, in my opinion.
The plot itself was messy, as one would expect about a 17-year-old going through massive trauma. It was painful to read at points — I found myself frustrated with Virginia, her friends, the adults in her life, and just about every character. But, again, it's reflective of how life actually is. People aren't just a bunch of positive and negative traits neatly lined up. People make mistakes, lash out, and hide their pain through self-medication. There were moments and plot points that read very realistic and true and others that felt a bit far fetched.
For me, personally, the reason I only rate it a 3.5 is the writing style. Bruzas is a fantastic writer and I'm very excited to watch her career. It's stream of conscious writing which I personally can find a little hard to read. It took me a while to actually get invested in our characters because of this. This is my own personal preference within books and I don't think it's a reason to avoid this novel or not read it. Just something to know going in, if you're anything like me.
But, overall, this was a very strong debut and is an incredibly important addition to the YA collection — both in general but also as one that focusing on SA and CSA. I would recommend this to folks so long as they head the trigger warnings and understand the writing style.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Child abuse, Sexual assault, and Suicidal thoughts
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