Objectively, this is a well-written book. There are some really strong lines, and it makes you think. Vanessa is not the most likeable, the most reliable main character and she's written that way on purpose. Because Russell is making you think about how we think about victims of sexual abuse, how they are portrayed in the media, and really, the fact that we think everyone should come foward about their trauma, even if that it and of itself is traumatizing. 

This is not an easy book to read, and it's not something I would have picked up if it wasn't for book club. I am torn about whether or not I'm glad that I've read this book, because it is a story worth telling. Definitely recommend reading the author's note to understand why Russell wrote this particular stoy, because personally, I had wondered that while reading, too. 

Despite this book being dark and kind of haunting, the writing style makes it difficult to put down, in a way. The time jumps, the pacing, it all lends itself to that. I would just say, make sure you're in the right headspace before picking it up.