Such AMAZING and REALISTIC character development...each main character with his/her own individual complex personalities--past/backstory, strengths, weaknesses, flaws, virtues, vices, secrets, wounds, warts, and all! With every chapter a work of art! I am continually astounded that such a talented young author can still possibly have such a full, deep, even agonizing insight into the "human" condition. . . especially the darkest side of evil where angels fear to tread!
As a 51 y/o woman who served in the U.S. Marines, I so relate to the utter, shattered, brokenness of Emily. And returning home to family expecting me to be my "old self"... NOT expecting the screaming night terrors; gut-wrenching fear of cruel, vicious men; loss of my sense of self (don't know who I am anymore...I just know I can NEVER be who I WAS)!
I have LOST myself in your exquisite storytelling and blossoming novel! Even shedding renewed hope and inspiration to put the broken, bloody pieces back together in my own life. And perhaps even find love, as well...
I could easily savor 10+ chapters every day--but I KNOW the CREATIVE PROCESS is so complex and draining, especially when done diligently. Keep up the spectacular work!!!