Ugh. What a re read. I resonated so deeply with Elsie the first time around and this time is also no different. I found myself tearing up at the internal conversations one has with themselves when the world they know around them is cruel and deceptive…so they best the world to it by being just as deceitful.

Elsie is seeking so much more than the approval of people, she’s seeking warmth and want. To be needed, yes. But to be chosen, is the core of her actions and desires. I cannot explain how Ali wrote such a layered and beautiful character, but I can applaud her for the accuracy—though grueling in detail— and the journey of Elsie’s growth. 

Jack, Cece, Greg, and George played such a significant role is support Elsie in her journey back to herself, or maybe not even back, just to herself. I can’t relate to every scenario Elsie found herself in, from family to academic politics, it was so close to home and she is held to closely to my heart. 

Ugh, it makes this such a hard and wonderful re read and a Hazelwood and Hazelverse book that I don’t ever think I will find more myself in…

Brava as always Ms. Hazelwood, brava.