The writing felt very sterile and technical. I didn't connect much to Nena's narrative though there was always something interesting or horrifying going on.

The story is told through dual timelines before Nena became a killer and after. In the before, it's through first pov, so we witness her trauma through her own words. The after is through third person pov, so there's more distance between us and Nena.

The world isn't kind to women, so there is abuse upon abuse heaped upon the page. A shining example is when a brother, under gun point, is asked to rape his sister. Not for the weak of heart.

There's really nothing enjoyable about this story, and I didn't feel a sense of satisfaction when Nena hardened into a killer after all the intense trauma. The before is more engaging than the after, but it's of course hard to read. I think my lack of enjoyment stems from a lack of characterization. I kept being "told" things, but I didn't see it.

On that same note, I wish Nena had more bonding time with Cortland. They barely said a few words to each other, but this is the catalyst that encouraged her doubt in the Tribe? A single dad who blinked twice? They needed way more scenes together. Not gonna lie Keigel and Nena had way more chemistry. I thought Nena and Georgia's connection was handled better.