If I could do half points, I'd give it a 2.5. This book is very emotionally charged, but not always in the best of ways. I felt so terribly for Jude, and Willem, and JB, and Malcom, each in turn, when each was faced with his own demons/problems.

I think I started to feel less compelled when it came to Jude. SpoilerThroughout the entirety of the book his self-destructive behavior is enabled; by his friends, his family, his doctor, his coworkers - literally everyone. Even when he's in a relationship, it's an unhealthy one, where Willem basically has to hope that he doesn't take his cutting too far.

The last two sections of the book (roughly 150 pages), I think were there only for 1) shock factor; and 2) to provide an excuse for SpoilerJude to kill himself without too much backlash.

Despite the problematic ideas of mental illness and trauma in the book, the prose is superb and there are times when the character choices feel more realistic than a "happily ever after" scenario. But I will say that it is difficult to accept the fact that there is almost nothing positive about this book. I think only 2 good things happen, both of which aren't focused upon to give a reader enough hope that things will change. It does become a little drudge.