As a teacher, this book hit all of the right notes. 

Holy religious trauma, Batman. Following Laura Weymouth like I do, I know what she’s talked about in terms of her families religious background, and this book was an interesting examination of religious structures and the ways in which manipulation happens in those spaces. Anya was a fierce protagonist, and I enjoyed being with her on her journey. I can’t say I loved every part of this book, but I do love Laura Weymouth and her writing style, so that made up for any plot issues for me. 

If I had read this all at once I think I would have enjoyed it better, so it’s really my own fault. 

Yes this book did have me weeping at many points, and overall I was fully there for Kate's journey. The depiction of grief was incredibly emotional and honest, and really tugged at my heart strings.  However, some things did stick out to me that lessened my enjoyment. The opening felt just a bit too silly and out of place. I almost didn't continue reading because I found the whole grenade scenario just too ridiculous. I also found Hugh and Kate's relationship from the start just feel off. Yes, the deeper understanding of Hugh did make it make more sense by the end, but their relationship just automatically felt like it gave the game away. The second he was introduced, it was incredibly clear what his role would be in the story. It isn't really a bad thing, just made it feel like Kate was oblivious, and not in a grief-stricken way.