Child abduction, brainwashing & psychological and emotional demons!

Elian Martinez is abducted on his way home from school and held captive for 3.5 years while being brainwashed. The excerpts surrounding his time in captivity were difficult and heartbreaking to read. His abductor spends years breaking him down and reprogramming him until the fateful day he leads him into a mall strapped with a bomb to his body. Elian, a.k.a Jacob, is meant to give his life to "The Purpose" but fate intercedes in the form of Maya.

Fast forward 10 months later and Elian and Maya's paths intersect once more, only this time in high school. Maya has always been anxious and has her own emotional demons plaguing her. Although she has been hailed a hero for helping thwart Elian's bombing attempt, Maya is unraveling and suffering from crippling PTSD.

This book deals with so many sensitive topics. It is definitely best suited for older audiences. There were certain graphic descriptions that more sensitive readers should be aware of. Emerson wasn't trying to be salacious in his writing. It definitely worked within the context of the story and makes readers aware of many issues that are prominent today including social anxiety, bullying, OCD, isolation and other mental issues.

Any Second is a deep book that explores the darker parts of life. It was heavy reading and often left me feeling uncomfortable but it was also quite riveting. I couldn't stop turning the pages. I was thoroughly invested in both Elian and Maya and enjoyed the journey the characters took throughout the book.

Thank you to Kevin Emerson, Random House CHildren's and NetGalley for an arc of the book. All opinions are 100% honest and my own thoughts on the book.