Ok I need a minute to process what just happened and I have no idea how many stars to give this.

Does this book go too far with the ick factor? Honestly, yes. But is the writing also stellar and made me really said and empathetic towards the characters? Also yes.

Did I enjoy reading the book? Enjoy is not the word I would use. Was I captivated? Mostly. Was I disgusted and horrified? Yes, at moments. Do I regret reading it? Not really.

I feel like this book is meant to be a commentary on naivety, the banality of evil, and the horror of extreme parental neglect. But I think the commentary potentially boils down to "sometimes, bad circumstances don't have silver linings. They're just bad".

My thoughts haven't been clarified at all while writing this review. I'm giving this 2.5 stars rounded up, because I think this book has something to say that I haven't quite put my finger on yet.

Not recommended to most people - this book is graphic and depraved, the likes of Hurricane Season and Earthlings. But if you liked those and are looking for another like it, this is it.

More thoughts here: https://youtu.be/vMa3vzClYkA