2.5

I didn’t hate this book… but I didn’t like it? I’m not sure the framing of an abusive relationship by giving him a valid reason for his anger is a good way to write an abusive character. I understand trying to give us sympathy for Ryle to complicate the issue of abuse and make us understand why women stay… but I think it would’ve been a stronger book if he simply was that way because he was, not because of past trauma. The idea that he “blacks out” when he’s mad and cannot think straight simply doesn’t bode well for him as a father either.

I see what Hoover was going for, it was a decent enough book to keep reading. The ending WAS good, but I guess I feel a little icky after reading it because I know that’s not how a real relationship works.