Susan Terris

This was a very unsatisfying tale about a girl facing a forced marriage, but with a man she likes. I was looking forward to how she was going to handle her mixed emotions, but was instead provided with a strange self-harm type of story. The characters were very flat, two dimensional, no development except for the mother, but then just a little toward the end of the book. People with serious mental issues seemed to be added in just for shock value. I completed the story, hoping that a point of Nell's actions could be found, didn't happen. I also was frustrated with the abrupt ending. Not recommended for any age.… (mere)

I read this book orginally as a preteen. I think that the underlying issues were above my comprehention at the time. I couldn't understand someone limiting thier food and destroying something they cherrished. As an adult the eating disorder theem is terrifying and so very sad.

I felt for Nell, being pushed into marriage and away from the life she wanted. I found myself wrapped up in her decisions and trying to cheer her on, even though I didn't think the book would end differently than it did on my first reading.

This is quick and good book, but I wouldn't call it an enjoyable read as the subject is so very uncomfortable.… (mere)