This book should be mandatory reading, for teens, for adults and everyone in between - and I don't say that lightly.

The story follows Andrea from the first time she meets Josh, through the duration of their relationship, and very importantly, beyond that. I've never read a book that so clearly and realistically shows how an abusive relationship becomes that, and also how messy and difficult it can be even after it's supposedly over. When we read a story, we expect an ending that has a clear final event, and this book excels in keeping the story realistic and not doing that. There is much more to abuse than most stories would have us know, and it's brilliant that this book exists to show the raw truth of it - from the fairly innocuous beginning to the bitter end.

The writing is beautiful throughout; Miller definitely has a way with words, in the best possible way. The dialogue is well-written and realistic, as is the narration by Andrea. Her thoughts are well-explained and relatable throughout.

Although it would be easy to paint Josh as a monster, and he truly is, there are some wonderful insights into his character that show it isn't necessarily as simple as that. Even as monstrous as he is, there's a high chance everyone who reads this (and to re-iterate, that should be everyone) will recognise Josh as someone they know. Maybe he's your best friend's boyfriend that you just can't warn her about enough, a friend that you know doesn't treat their loved ones well, or maybe he's your ex-boyfriend and you managed to break free.

This isn't an easy read. At times I felt like I could read it in one sitting, but I couldn't handle it. At times frustrating, anger-inducing, terrifying, upsetting, and always very real. There is always hope though, which is important. It has a perfect balance so that just when you think it's too dark, there is some light, somewhere.