a really immersive and insightful story about a young girl’s battles, strength and determination. usually don’t like this type of story but i felt very present in the words, like i was experiencing this girl’s life along with her. also loved the dynamic and banter between emily and lucas; a sort of logical niece and sassy uncle vibe. how he is very standoffish and harsh one minute but the next you can tell he is concerned about emily. i really liked the realistic approach to the mother and daughters in the beginning; the simple forgetfulness of not trusting strangers or locking your door can alter lives forever. i couldn’t stop reading. i felt on the edge of my seat with each line, wondering if the men will find emily on the bus or one of the people who help her tell the police a runaway is roaming. i appreciate the shorter chapters too, always a plus. also enjoyed the fact we go back and forth from the attack to present day with emily trying to survive. that gives a feeling of more mystery and suspense to the story.