It's difficult for me to not have mixed emotions about the content of this story, and it's impossible to discuss them without spoilers, so only read the read of this review if you don't mind knowing what the book is truly about before starting it.

While it's arguable that Ward approached this story with the intention of depicting dissociative identity disorder accurately and with empathy, the fact remains that she further played into stereotypes by presenting Ted as a repulsive and monsterous threat until the very end of the novel. Subverting a trope isn't exactly revolutionary if you're still using it to frighten and digust people, the way the trope was originally intended. Giving Ted an ending where he is finally welcomed into another's life and able to speak about his inner world seems like an afterthought shoved into the book to make the reader feel less icky having read a dissection of his trauma after being tricked to think he was a child abductor. However, Ted's goodness shines throughout the book even in the darkest moments. It is rewarding to read a story about a rejected person who is innately kind towards other living creatures, especially when even his own mother treats him as if he is fated to hurt them. Additionally, I respect that Ward included resources to learn more about dissociative identity disorder in the print edition of the book. I don't think those resources or her author's note made it into the audiobook edition.

In its favor, the book is written to keep the reader glued to each page, or in my case, audiobook, which I listened to throughout my entire day until it was finished. The twists are jolting, but feel somewhat dirty to learn after they're all laid out. Ward is a talented writer, and thought I'm still not sure whether I relish this book or detest it, I do look forward to reading more of her work.