This book was beautifully written. Judging by the characters and the scenes I can tell the author really put a ton of time and research into domestic violence, narcissistic abuse and ballet. The violent scenes between Tristan and Sparrow were so convincing and real that sometimes I felt like I needed to find a corner to hide in. She really nailed the selfishness and the surliness of an individual with Narcissistic personality disorder. The blame that Tristan placed on Sparrow for the most asinine things because he couldn't deal with his own short comings, the quick temper and the risk taking took me back to my own situation. All in all, this book was beautifully sad taking us along for the ride mixed with beauty and ugliness. I would recommend this to anyone else who's experienced relationship violence to read only if they are strong enough to do so. To know that you are never alone and your situation is similar to others' can be a powerful tool in your recovery.