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Friday, September 10, 2010

Book Review: Scars by Cheryl Rainfield

Scars by Cheryl Rainfield
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
Release Date: Available Now
Publisher: Westside Books
Pages: 250
Source: Received from author for honest review

Summary: Kendra, fifteen, hasn't felt safe since she began to recall devastating memories of childhood sexual abuse, especially because she still can't remember the most important detail-- her abuser's identity. Frightened, Kendra believes someone is always watching and following her, leaving menacing messages only she understands. If she lets her guard down even for a minute, it could cost Kendra her life. To relieve the pressure, Kendra cuts; aside from her brilliantly expressive artwork, it's her only way of coping. Since her own mother is too self-absorbed to hear her cries for help, Kendra finds support in others instead: from her therapist and her art teacher, from Sandy, the close family friend who encourages her artwork, and from Meghan, the classmate who's becoming a friend and maybe more. But the truth about Kendra's abuse is just waiting to explode, with startling unforeseen consequences. Scars is the unforgettable story of one girl's frightening path to the truth.

My Review: Scars was a powerful, intense and heart-wrenching novel. Cheryl's own experiences inspired this story which showcased a realistic plot. Her bravery for sharing painful moments with her readers was commendable. In the beginning, the author introduced Kendra, a complex, troubled girl who was fighting to keep her hidden demons a secret. Her fear stemmed from a childhood of sexual abuse. She not only lived with the damaged memories but, also the lingering threat of a watchful predator who waited for her to crack. The abusers horrific treatment walked with her every day, while his face remained a blur. Kendra's outlet to release the continuous panic was to cut herself. Cutting was her escape from all the anguish and loss of control. In addition, there was so much more to Kendra, I enjoyed seeing her artistic ability and kind heart.

Seeking happiness was difficult to Kendra until Meghan came into her life. I thought Cheryl did a phenomenal job expressing real love between the two. I was emotionally moved by seeing how the protagonist found some type of comfort and trust in someone. Another figure I really liked was Carolyn, Kendra's therapist. She was the perfect role model. Therapy helped her come to terms with her feelings instead of bottling them inside. As I kept reading, I was enthralled and couldn't put the book down. The moment the climax occurred, I was shocked and appalled. I couldn't believe the outcome of the story. Once the abuser was unexpectedly revealed, I was floored. Overall, this book was inspirational and a great example of a story that can help individuals in Kendra's situation. This book rocked me to my core and I am in awe of Cheryl's writing ability to convey such a strong message to readers.

Interested in this book? Enter my giveaway here!

My Rating:
Book Trailer:



Author's Info:

Cheryl Rainfield writes realistic edgy fiction for teens, fantasy for children, and some nonfiction articles for adults. She edits and critiques children's and teen fiction, and on her website she reviews a wide variety of children's and YA books. In addition to writing, Cheryl is also a talented artist. She lives in Toronto with her dog Willow and cat Amazon.

For more info on Cheryl, visit her site(s):
-Website
-Twitter
-Facebook
-GoodReads


4 comments:

Marce said...

Something about this book completely intrigues me, I do like darker stories.

Great review, I think I will pick this one up.

Miss Remmers said...

This book looks absolutely fantastic!!

Brent Taylor said...

Eleni,

I will miss reading your fabulous posts!

Bere said...

Wonderful review, Eleni. Scars definitely seems like a powerful and emotionally charged book. I'll have to keep an eye out for this one. Thanks Eleni. =)

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