Engaging, deeply disturbing, and inspiring, this biographical novel explores the experiences of a child intermittently molested by a family member over many years. Later labeled a pedophile and possibly a psychopath by Lilly’s therapist in adulthood, the serial sexual abuser stalked her and other victims, often beginning in toddlerhood and sometimes continuing well beyond puberty, when most pedophiles lose interest in victims. Lurking behind an enabling wife (Lilly’s maternal aunt), Lilly’s godfather manages to create an almost impenetrable web of terror and deceit. Lilly’s parents are blinded by their own psychological shortcomings and their commitment to maintaining harmony in their extended Catholic family. Lilly’s intense fear of Frank’s ongoing threats and the natural disassociation and compartmentalization experienced by sexual assault victims keep her memories and her inclination to reach out for help at bay, except for a teenage confession to her older brother and her commendable attempts to protect her younger sister.

Devastating to read but hard to put down, the novel is divided into eras of Lilly’s life that are marked by her love of nature, her academic progress, and the family vacations, weddings, and celebrations that become terrifying events for a youngster facing ongoing sexual abuse. Lilly’s memories are interspersed with revelations from her therapy sessions in adulthood. The topic is geared toward adult and mature young adult readers, and the straightforward but dynamic writing is suitable for both audiences. Giachino’s courageous ability to share this troubling aspect of her life in writing is almost miraculous as it is often difficult for victims of sexual abuse to move past blaming themselves for their trauma, particularly after many years of the ongoing grooming and psychological abuse that accompanies the physical assaults. Ultimately, Lilly’s determination to protect others from the trauma she experienced becomes her saving grace.

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