This book has a lot of potential but fell a bit short in my opinion . Overall, the biggest downside for me was the dialogue. The vernacular used just seemed odd in places when considering the time period , setting , & ages of the characters . I did however love that it touched on the brokenness we have in our current foster system ,social service offices and the stigmas that surround the children and families in them. The story also brought to light the ease with which small town “good old boy “corrupt justice systems can operate without repercussions. The ending felt a bit jumbled and rushed in places as well. I wish there had been maybe a bit of reworking on the order certain things were brought into the story line . Personally I would have also loved more expansion towards the end on some events and less fluff of details in the beginning chapters. Overall, it was an okay read but not a 5 star for me personally .

I received this book as an advanced reader copy for free and am giving my review voluntarily for this courtesy.