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"One of the most powerful books I've ever read."
—Stephanie Kuehnert, ROOKIE MAGAZINE

"Cupala's considerable narrative gifts keep readers engaged."
—KIRKUS REVIEWS

Joy Delamere is suffocating.

From asthma, from her parents, and from her boyfriend, delectably dangerous Asher, who is smothering her from the inside out. Joy can take his words —tender words, cruel words—until the night they go too far.

Now, Joy will leave everything behind to find the one who has offered his help, a homeless boy called Creed. She will become someone else. She will learn to survive. She will breathe...if only she can get to Creed before it's too late.

Set against the gritty backdrop of Seattle's streets and a cast of characters with secrets of their own,
Holly Cupala's powerful new novel explores the subtleties of abuse, the meaning of love, and how far a girl will go to discover her own strength.

"A gorgeously written, intense page-turner. [close]