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Believe Like a Child
Home isn't safe for young Alessa because her uncle lives there...unfortunately neither are the streets.
Alessa's uncle is a child predator, and she's one of his victims.
At sixteen, after the death of her only friend, Alessa finds herself isolated at home with her uncle. Unable to live there, she runs away.
Alone on the streets of North Philadelphia, she encounters more people who hurt her. About to hit rock bottom, Alessa breaks free from her new tormentors and finds refuge in a shelter for homeless and abused women.
Wherever she goes, however, trouble keeps seeking her out, until she meets three people who change the course of her life. Though Alessa's bittersweet journey is fraught with challenges, she does, nevertheless, find fleeting moments of joy. Then, as she settles down, a ghost from the past comes to haunt her, threatening to destroy the very foundation of her small world and plunging her back into an abyss of despair, until she makes her final bid for escape
.
**WARNING** 18+ Readers Only. Graphic content and subject matter. (This is a standalone novel)
Alessa's uncle is a child predator, and she's one of his victims.
At sixteen, after the death of her only friend, Alessa finds herself isolated at home with her uncle. Unable to live there, she runs away.
Alone on the streets of North Philadelphia, she encounters more people who hurt her. About to hit rock bottom, Alessa breaks free from her new tormentors and finds refuge in a shelter for homeless and abused women.
Wherever she goes, however, trouble keeps seeking her out, until she meets three people who change the course of her life. Though Alessa's bittersweet journey is fraught with challenges, she does, nevertheless, find fleeting moments of joy. Then, as she settles down, a ghost from the past comes to haunt her, threatening to destroy the very foundation of her small world and plunging her back into an abyss of despair, until she makes her final bid for escape
.
**WARNING** 18+ Readers Only. Graphic content and subject matter. (This is a standalone novel)
443 pages, Paperback
First published June 22, 2011
3906 people are currently reading
18368 people want to read
About the author
Paige Dearth
14 books1,920 followersWebsite: https://paigedearth.com/
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3e86gp7
Facebook: https://bit.ly/2JS5M1D
Twitter: https://bit.ly/2v1sWgK
#1 Amazon bestselling author Paige Dearth is a survivor of child abuse. Through grit and pure determination she set out to provide a look inside the pain and suffering caused by childhood trauma through her novels.
Paige writes real-life horror and refers to her work as Fiction With Meaning. She hopes that her fictional stories will create awareness for prevention and intervention. Paige writes stories about young children who need to overcome adversity and then take you on their life’s journey. You will shed tears of joy, grief, rage, and horror. She wants her readers to be thinking about the story long after they have turned the last page.
Paige believes that society should not look the other way because a subject seems too difficult to handle and to remember that people live through these real-life horrors.
Paige lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with her husband Mike, and dog, Benny. Her debut novel, Believe Like A Child, was the catalyst for her writing platform. The beginning of Believe Like A Child is based on events from Paige’s childhood. Paige’s novels present a fine balance between what lives on in her imagination and the evil that lurks in the real world.
Paige’s favorite motto is:
“Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.”
~Benjamin Franklin
PAIGE'S STANDALONE NOVELS IN ORDER OF PUBLICATION:
Believe Like A Child
When Smiles Fade
One Among Us
Mean Little People
Never Be Alone
My Final Breath
RAINEY PAXTON SERIES:
A Little Pinprick (Book One)
A Little High (Book Two)
Girls Missing (Book Three)
Girls Found (Book Four)
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3e86gp7
Facebook: https://bit.ly/2JS5M1D
Twitter: https://bit.ly/2v1sWgK
#1 Amazon bestselling author Paige Dearth is a survivor of child abuse. Through grit and pure determination she set out to provide a look inside the pain and suffering caused by childhood trauma through her novels.
Paige writes real-life horror and refers to her work as Fiction With Meaning. She hopes that her fictional stories will create awareness for prevention and intervention. Paige writes stories about young children who need to overcome adversity and then take you on their life’s journey. You will shed tears of joy, grief, rage, and horror. She wants her readers to be thinking about the story long after they have turned the last page.
Paige believes that society should not look the other way because a subject seems too difficult to handle and to remember that people live through these real-life horrors.
Paige lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with her husband Mike, and dog, Benny. Her debut novel, Believe Like A Child, was the catalyst for her writing platform. The beginning of Believe Like A Child is based on events from Paige’s childhood. Paige’s novels present a fine balance between what lives on in her imagination and the evil that lurks in the real world.
Paige’s favorite motto is:
“Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.”
~Benjamin Franklin
PAIGE'S STANDALONE NOVELS IN ORDER OF PUBLICATION:
Believe Like A Child
When Smiles Fade
One Among Us
Mean Little People
Never Be Alone
My Final Breath
RAINEY PAXTON SERIES:
A Little Pinprick (Book One)
A Little High (Book Two)
Girls Missing (Book Three)
Girls Found (Book Four)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 691 reviews
June 4, 2012
I had this friend growing up who used to talk in sayings:
“All I know is that I know nothing.”
“The unexamined life is not worth living.”
“Imagination is more important than knowledge.”
“A word to the wise ain’t necessary — it’s the stupid ones that need the advice.”
At the time I thought it was ridiculous. His way of showing off or making himself seem much more worldly than he actually was.
It wasn’t until today that I realized sometime cliched sayings are the most appropriate form of communication.
Yesterday I finally had the distinct pleasure (and yes…I do mean pleasure) of finishing a book I have been reading for more than a week. Normally a book will take me a day, a day and a half at the most, but “Believe Like a Child” by Paige Dearth was different. It was was so raw, so disturbing that I found myself having to put it down for extended period of time just to be able to breath properly.
It short…reading this book was like:
“Stumbling on a train wreck and being unable to tear your eyes away.”
You don’t want to watch, but you have to. You don’t want to subject yourself to the harsh realities bound to be inside of the wreckage, but your curiosity is stronger than your will.
“Believe Like A Child” is the train wreck. Dirty and smoking. Filled with horrors unimaginable. Dark, depressing and utterly engrossing to it’s very last page.
“Alessa is just seven years old when her uncle rapes her for the first time. As the years pass, his sexual appetite becomes more voracious and his perversion more twisted, until the abuse has become almost a daily ritual, with the unspoken involvement of the girl’s mother.
At the age of sixteen, after the death of her only friend, Alessa finds herself at the mercy of her real-life monster, with no relief in sight. She flees her home to escape this hell, only to find herself descending into a more dangerous one. Alone and helpless in the streets of North Philadelphia, she encounters more human predators who want to take over her life and devour her. About to hit rock bottom, Alessa manages to break away from her new tormentors and finds refuge in a shelter for homeless and abused women.
Wherever she goes, however, trouble keeps seeking her out, until she meets three people who change the course of her life forever. Though Alessa’s bittersweet journey is perpetually fraught with challenges, she does, nevertheless, manage to find fleeting moments of joy along the way. But as she begins to settle down, a ghost from the past comes to haunt her again, threatening to destroy the very foundation of her small world and plunging her back into an abyss of despair, until she makes her final bid for escape.”
I am going to start off my breakdown with a disclaimer.
This book is NOT for the faint of heart. It’s NOT for young audiences. It’s NOT for mothers easily overcome by anxiety. The situations presented in this novel are NOT easy to read about and will more than likely affect you either mentally or physically. If you have a difficult time reading (in explicit detail) about molestation, rape, prostitution, gang violence or are easily offended by harsh language… DO NOT READ THIS NOVEL!
It’s been a while since I have read a book as mentally demanding as this one. Hard, yes. Sad, yes. Mentally exhausting? No.
The pure sadness that radiated from the pages of this novel could be bottled and sold. The writing so shocking and intimate that even if it had been elementary; tied down by grammatical errors and sloppy structure; it would have gone by completely unnoticed.
AKA…the STORY did it’s job. It made everything else insignificant.
In the interest of sounding someone professional I’ll tell you this.
We are sucked into the details of this story through Alessa’s eyes, and because of this minute detail we are privy to the darkest and harshest aspects of her life. Nothing is left to the imagination. When she finds herself under the ties of her pedophile Uncle Danny, we are in the room with her. The experience is spelled out. It’s not flowery or filled with passive imagery. It is harsh, it is assaulting to the senses and it is real. The same could be said for the rest of the novel.
However, despite the abominable aspects of this story, there is a deeper meaning. One of triumph and faith. A glimmer of light that shines on the possibility of hope for ALL of the characters involved, not just Alessa. It teaches a lesson. That regardless of where you are now, you can always end up somewhere else. All you have to do is: Believe like a child. Believe in yourself.
Some stories you read and move on. Some stories you take with you for the rest of your life. Paige Dearth’s story is the latter.
A dark tale, with stunning characters and an emotional subject. Not for everyone, but perfect for a few.
Happy reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember:
“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.” – Einstein
“All I know is that I know nothing.”
“The unexamined life is not worth living.”
“Imagination is more important than knowledge.”
“A word to the wise ain’t necessary — it’s the stupid ones that need the advice.”
At the time I thought it was ridiculous. His way of showing off or making himself seem much more worldly than he actually was.
It wasn’t until today that I realized sometime cliched sayings are the most appropriate form of communication.
Yesterday I finally had the distinct pleasure (and yes…I do mean pleasure) of finishing a book I have been reading for more than a week. Normally a book will take me a day, a day and a half at the most, but “Believe Like a Child” by Paige Dearth was different. It was was so raw, so disturbing that I found myself having to put it down for extended period of time just to be able to breath properly.
It short…reading this book was like:
“Stumbling on a train wreck and being unable to tear your eyes away.”
You don’t want to watch, but you have to. You don’t want to subject yourself to the harsh realities bound to be inside of the wreckage, but your curiosity is stronger than your will.
“Believe Like A Child” is the train wreck. Dirty and smoking. Filled with horrors unimaginable. Dark, depressing and utterly engrossing to it’s very last page.
“Alessa is just seven years old when her uncle rapes her for the first time. As the years pass, his sexual appetite becomes more voracious and his perversion more twisted, until the abuse has become almost a daily ritual, with the unspoken involvement of the girl’s mother.
At the age of sixteen, after the death of her only friend, Alessa finds herself at the mercy of her real-life monster, with no relief in sight. She flees her home to escape this hell, only to find herself descending into a more dangerous one. Alone and helpless in the streets of North Philadelphia, she encounters more human predators who want to take over her life and devour her. About to hit rock bottom, Alessa manages to break away from her new tormentors and finds refuge in a shelter for homeless and abused women.
Wherever she goes, however, trouble keeps seeking her out, until she meets three people who change the course of her life forever. Though Alessa’s bittersweet journey is perpetually fraught with challenges, she does, nevertheless, manage to find fleeting moments of joy along the way. But as she begins to settle down, a ghost from the past comes to haunt her again, threatening to destroy the very foundation of her small world and plunging her back into an abyss of despair, until she makes her final bid for escape.”
I am going to start off my breakdown with a disclaimer.
This book is NOT for the faint of heart. It’s NOT for young audiences. It’s NOT for mothers easily overcome by anxiety. The situations presented in this novel are NOT easy to read about and will more than likely affect you either mentally or physically. If you have a difficult time reading (in explicit detail) about molestation, rape, prostitution, gang violence or are easily offended by harsh language… DO NOT READ THIS NOVEL!
It’s been a while since I have read a book as mentally demanding as this one. Hard, yes. Sad, yes. Mentally exhausting? No.
The pure sadness that radiated from the pages of this novel could be bottled and sold. The writing so shocking and intimate that even if it had been elementary; tied down by grammatical errors and sloppy structure; it would have gone by completely unnoticed.
AKA…the STORY did it’s job. It made everything else insignificant.
In the interest of sounding someone professional I’ll tell you this.
We are sucked into the details of this story through Alessa’s eyes, and because of this minute detail we are privy to the darkest and harshest aspects of her life. Nothing is left to the imagination. When she finds herself under the ties of her pedophile Uncle Danny, we are in the room with her. The experience is spelled out. It’s not flowery or filled with passive imagery. It is harsh, it is assaulting to the senses and it is real. The same could be said for the rest of the novel.
However, despite the abominable aspects of this story, there is a deeper meaning. One of triumph and faith. A glimmer of light that shines on the possibility of hope for ALL of the characters involved, not just Alessa. It teaches a lesson. That regardless of where you are now, you can always end up somewhere else. All you have to do is: Believe like a child. Believe in yourself.
Some stories you read and move on. Some stories you take with you for the rest of your life. Paige Dearth’s story is the latter.
A dark tale, with stunning characters and an emotional subject. Not for everyone, but perfect for a few.
Happy reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember:
“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.” – Einstein
July 29, 2025
This is a Dark Fiction book, and this is the first book in the Home Street Home series. That covers a lot of hard to read topics, so if you get upset by reading very dark topics and Graphic content then DO NOT READ this book. The beginning of this book was really hard to read, and I had a hard time to like any of the characters. I connected to the characters by the middle of the book, and I found the middle to be easier to read even if it still had some really dark times in it. The ending is not a happy ever after ending, and I think this book needed a little happier ending because the book was so dark. I think this book would have be better if it was told in the point of view of the main character. Then I think I could have got closer to the character. I won a Kindle edition of this book from a Goodreads giveaway. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
July 11, 2022
At the start of this book quite a few chapters in, I was finding this really hard going. I knew there was abuse in this, its quite graphic and not easy to read. I even said to a couple of my book buddies at times it was a struggle. I considered putting it down.
Then I thought.......the author is doing her job well because I am 'feeling' things, so I carried on. I am glad I stayed with this book because here is a very little girl Alessa being abused by her uncle. Her Mother took him in because he paid his way. You could tell she knew exactly what was going on even before Alessa grew old enough to understand what was happening to her and she told her Mother. Her Mother's reaction was terrible towards her daughter.
When I actually got up to the place where Alessa finds a good friend and the Mother of that friend is so sweet and kind to Alessa not even having the knowledge of what was going on with Alessa behind closed doors, I felt the story taking a better turn. However, not all was plain sailing. Things happened to her friend, tragic things happened to change the friends Mother.
Going on a bit down the line, there was a homeless shelter mentioned. I couldn't get my head around the smoothness of it all. It just all turned too nice too quickly.
Even come across another potential friend/her brother/safety and refuge. That is why for me it has the rate of 3 stars. Yes I know its fiction, but it also has to be real to life or it becomes fairytale like.
In my humble opinion if certain tweaks were done in this book it would have rated a 4 star from me.
That being said, I do have 2 other of this authors novels to read, and I will be doing with an open mind as each book tells a story of its own no matter what you read from the same author [if that makes sense]
I would like to thank AuthorBuzz via Net Galley for allowing me to read and give an honest viewpoint.
Then I thought.......the author is doing her job well because I am 'feeling' things, so I carried on. I am glad I stayed with this book because here is a very little girl Alessa being abused by her uncle. Her Mother took him in because he paid his way. You could tell she knew exactly what was going on even before Alessa grew old enough to understand what was happening to her and she told her Mother. Her Mother's reaction was terrible towards her daughter.
When I actually got up to the place where Alessa finds a good friend and the Mother of that friend is so sweet and kind to Alessa not even having the knowledge of what was going on with Alessa behind closed doors, I felt the story taking a better turn. However, not all was plain sailing. Things happened to her friend, tragic things happened to change the friends Mother.
Going on a bit down the line, there was a homeless shelter mentioned. I couldn't get my head around the smoothness of it all. It just all turned too nice too quickly.
Even come across another potential friend/her brother/safety and refuge. That is why for me it has the rate of 3 stars. Yes I know its fiction, but it also has to be real to life or it becomes fairytale like.
In my humble opinion if certain tweaks were done in this book it would have rated a 4 star from me.
That being said, I do have 2 other of this authors novels to read, and I will be doing with an open mind as each book tells a story of its own no matter what you read from the same author [if that makes sense]
I would like to thank AuthorBuzz via Net Galley for allowing me to read and give an honest viewpoint.
October 22, 2012
This book was of a very intense subject matter and really deserved some better dialogue and overall better writing! I thought, particularly toward the end of the book that the characters said some of the silliest things and I really didn't need the author to be walking me through the obvious explanations or thought processes the characters were having. I also thought this was a little unbelievable - I found it getting overly predictable that something new and terrible would be happen to the main character. How fortunate for her that she only walked away with a "potty mouth" and no lingering trauma, STDs, poor self image (amazing how easily she recovered with no therapy!), or scars for that matter. And she got to keep a child that wasn't legally hers, met a fantastic guy who didn't care she'd slept with over 200 other men, and got to go to college and buy a homeless shelter! This book just got more and more ridiculous the further I read! I gave it two stars because I did actually wind up finishing it since I wanted to know the outcome. There are much better books out there with similar subject matters that follow the triumphs of people who have been dealt a terrible card in life! Would not recommend this one!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2020
A GR friend, Jade Violet has brought this book on view and I was instantly attracted to it by it's cover. I had to know what's in the book. Jade has given me a little preview of the background of this author, honestly I don't know much about the authors besides their full name. It's a bad habit, I know, I'm rectifying. Thank you Jade for this.
The subject of this book is delicate, a matter of cruelty that is a chameleon among people. Few encourage it and few are indifferent. The victims can't express their emotions and their sanity is beyond any turmoil we people feel. This book describes different torture - a torture to body and soul. You may be intimidated. I've read a lot of reviews after reading this book. I ended up in a situation where I've a lot to say and nothing to write. A reviewer with a two star rating had an honest thought of this book. She figured out a lot of obvious actions from the book which most of the reviewers never mentioned, I didn't too. But she was a little hard on the authors story. Paige has shared a part of her life that is so heartbreaking.
Alessa was a victim to pedophile, kidnapping and prostitution. She has been a mere age of seven when her world turned dark, realising that there are no monsters under her bed but on her bed. The story starts right at the first page, of abuse on Alessa. Alessa is the youngest among 4 siblings. She is mostly ignored. She is shy and quiet. Her father has a disability from war and her mother won't work claiming she "needed" to stay home with the kids. As the story proceeds we know how selfish and cruel she is. Having financial problems, enters Uncle Danny who came to 'rescue' them. Alessa couldn't compare the cruelties she faced then and now,
"The first time Alessa’s uncle raped her, she felt isolated and helpless. The abuse became more frequent thereafter. It did occur to the child that she should tell her mother about her uncle’s behavior, but Danny enjoyed a certain standing both in her family and in the neighborhood where they lived and she was not confident about being taken seriously. By abusing her, he had stripped her of all confidence and she felt entirely defenseless, unable to resist his assaults, and at times, she felt like it was her who had caused the abuse."
Alone and helpless she bears all kinds of horrible situations forced on her. My heart felt burdened when she calls herself a "slut" without wholly knowing it's meaning. This little soul is neglected by her parents and partly by her siblings. Knowing this book is partly real I was emotional and struggling to complete it. I actually missed the numbers of abuses done on her. The author went with detail that is so beyond imaginary.
After managing to run away from her house, (hell) she tackles lots of challenges finding little joys here and there. Among this was three people - Remo, Lucy and Ebby, a man who loved her truly, she mothered a girl who wasn't her daughter and found a friend once again. Alessa went to therapy sessions, to college and most of all she was away from horridness and was independent. But when everything seemed fine, the past visits trying to destroy her perfect world.
The title of the book is strongly named. Trusting ownself with the innocence of a child. There are monsters among us with abominal actions and thoughts. Anyone can fall prey to this, child or adult. Alessa had a tragic ending.
The book has mistakes here and there, background description was vivid and there was no time period. I can overlook this because dispite this the author has managed to pull me deep in this story, has done a fine work in showing me a victims perspective.
This book has many triggers. The author is very raw in specifying the abuses. It can be horrifying and depressing. There are rapes of all stages, child abuse, molestation and prostitution.
The subject of this book is delicate, a matter of cruelty that is a chameleon among people. Few encourage it and few are indifferent. The victims can't express their emotions and their sanity is beyond any turmoil we people feel. This book describes different torture - a torture to body and soul. You may be intimidated. I've read a lot of reviews after reading this book. I ended up in a situation where I've a lot to say and nothing to write. A reviewer with a two star rating had an honest thought of this book. She figured out a lot of obvious actions from the book which most of the reviewers never mentioned, I didn't too. But she was a little hard on the authors story. Paige has shared a part of her life that is so heartbreaking.
Alessa was a victim to pedophile, kidnapping and prostitution. She has been a mere age of seven when her world turned dark, realising that there are no monsters under her bed but on her bed. The story starts right at the first page, of abuse on Alessa. Alessa is the youngest among 4 siblings. She is mostly ignored. She is shy and quiet. Her father has a disability from war and her mother won't work claiming she "needed" to stay home with the kids. As the story proceeds we know how selfish and cruel she is. Having financial problems, enters Uncle Danny who came to 'rescue' them. Alessa couldn't compare the cruelties she faced then and now,
"The first time Alessa’s uncle raped her, she felt isolated and helpless. The abuse became more frequent thereafter. It did occur to the child that she should tell her mother about her uncle’s behavior, but Danny enjoyed a certain standing both in her family and in the neighborhood where they lived and she was not confident about being taken seriously. By abusing her, he had stripped her of all confidence and she felt entirely defenseless, unable to resist his assaults, and at times, she felt like it was her who had caused the abuse."
Alone and helpless she bears all kinds of horrible situations forced on her. My heart felt burdened when she calls herself a "slut" without wholly knowing it's meaning. This little soul is neglected by her parents and partly by her siblings. Knowing this book is partly real I was emotional and struggling to complete it. I actually missed the numbers of abuses done on her. The author went with detail that is so beyond imaginary.
After managing to run away from her house, (hell) she tackles lots of challenges finding little joys here and there. Among this was three people - Remo, Lucy and Ebby, a man who loved her truly, she mothered a girl who wasn't her daughter and found a friend once again. Alessa went to therapy sessions, to college and most of all she was away from horridness and was independent. But when everything seemed fine, the past visits trying to destroy her perfect world.
The title of the book is strongly named. Trusting ownself with the innocence of a child. There are monsters among us with abominal actions and thoughts. Anyone can fall prey to this, child or adult. Alessa had a tragic ending.
The book has mistakes here and there, background description was vivid and there was no time period. I can overlook this because dispite this the author has managed to pull me deep in this story, has done a fine work in showing me a victims perspective.
This book has many triggers. The author is very raw in specifying the abuses. It can be horrifying and depressing. There are rapes of all stages, child abuse, molestation and prostitution.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2012
Believe Like a Child is the story of Alessa, a young girl who has been sexually, physically, and emotionally abused her whole life. The story starts out right in the first paragraph when Alessa was 7 years old and is being raped by her uncle. We get to watch her over the next few years as she grows up so we understand her background and where she's coming from so that later in the story we can maybe empathize and understand some of the decisions she makes throughout her life.
I'm not quite sure where to even start with this book. I knew just from the book description that this would not be a light, easy read, and boy was I right. It was an emotional rollercoaster, going through each and every emotion you could possibly think of with such rapid succession at times it made my mind spin. At times this book had me laughing out loud, and the next chapter over I would be in tears. It was an engrossing read that I found hard to put down. I just had to know what was going to happen next.
The characters were amazingly written. Alessa was so easy to love as a person. There were times I just wanted to be able to reach into the book and hug her or help her or just tell her it was going to be okay. Watching her go through her struggles and making the decisions she did sometimes based her low self-worth was heart wrenching, and the ending…wow! Definitely not what I thought was going to happen. I won't say anything else about it here because there's nothing I can say that won't give too much away…I'll just leave it at wow!
The third person narrative really worked in that we got to see so many different perspectives, some just for a short time, but those were times where there were things that we really needed to see from a different perspective. As I was reading the book, I was pretty sure I was going to give it a four-star rating rather than five-star, simply because the dialogue did not flow as nicely as I would have liked it to. It seemed just choppy and not realistic, but the more I read the easier it got to read and I did not notice it as much. It also seemed to fit it well with the overall feeling of the story.
The only thing that I was questioning is the time setting of the story. I would love to know what year this is supposed to be set in. Most of the time I thought it was pretty current, as the characters had cell phones and there were other things to make me think that it was a contemporary setting, but at the same time minimum wage was only $3.35, which confused me.
The topics in this book are not things that are usually written about openly and candidly. I think that is one of the things I enjoyed so much about Believe Like a Child, the frank and genuine openness of it. Overall, I enjoyed this story very, very much and am glad I had the opportunity to read it.
I'm not quite sure where to even start with this book. I knew just from the book description that this would not be a light, easy read, and boy was I right. It was an emotional rollercoaster, going through each and every emotion you could possibly think of with such rapid succession at times it made my mind spin. At times this book had me laughing out loud, and the next chapter over I would be in tears. It was an engrossing read that I found hard to put down. I just had to know what was going to happen next.
The characters were amazingly written. Alessa was so easy to love as a person. There were times I just wanted to be able to reach into the book and hug her or help her or just tell her it was going to be okay. Watching her go through her struggles and making the decisions she did sometimes based her low self-worth was heart wrenching, and the ending…wow! Definitely not what I thought was going to happen. I won't say anything else about it here because there's nothing I can say that won't give too much away…I'll just leave it at wow!
The third person narrative really worked in that we got to see so many different perspectives, some just for a short time, but those were times where there were things that we really needed to see from a different perspective. As I was reading the book, I was pretty sure I was going to give it a four-star rating rather than five-star, simply because the dialogue did not flow as nicely as I would have liked it to. It seemed just choppy and not realistic, but the more I read the easier it got to read and I did not notice it as much. It also seemed to fit it well with the overall feeling of the story.
The only thing that I was questioning is the time setting of the story. I would love to know what year this is supposed to be set in. Most of the time I thought it was pretty current, as the characters had cell phones and there were other things to make me think that it was a contemporary setting, but at the same time minimum wage was only $3.35, which confused me.
The topics in this book are not things that are usually written about openly and candidly. I think that is one of the things I enjoyed so much about Believe Like a Child, the frank and genuine openness of it. Overall, I enjoyed this story very, very much and am glad I had the opportunity to read it.
March 21, 2017
**I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.**
Though I applaud the effort, no part of me enjoyed this read. I fought hard not to DNF it and the only reason I didn’t was because it was a giveaway and I figured the least I could do was finish and review it. My track record with giveaway books so far is one DNF and it is something I swore to myself I wouldn’t do again.
This book is about a sexually abused child that as she grows up, struggles to find a safe passage through life. The story is told from her point of view and she shares every detail of what happens to her throughout the story. I want to be clear, the descriptions are extremely graphic. I'm sure they were written this way to highlight what kind of hell children (as well as adults) face in these situations.
The introduction was brutal and stomach turning and the rest of the story meandered down a fantastical path into the absurd. I could excuse the beginning when I thought there was a message to be had but once it worked its way into everything bad happening all of the time regardless of believability, I was over it. I could get past the childlike writing style because I assumed like the graphic details, it was written that way to send a message. I could not get past the mediocre characters and the beyond belief storyline.
Two stars changed to one after I tried for hours to find even one positive thing I could say in this review.
Though I applaud the effort, no part of me enjoyed this read. I fought hard not to DNF it and the only reason I didn’t was because it was a giveaway and I figured the least I could do was finish and review it. My track record with giveaway books so far is one DNF and it is something I swore to myself I wouldn’t do again.
This book is about a sexually abused child that as she grows up, struggles to find a safe passage through life. The story is told from her point of view and she shares every detail of what happens to her throughout the story. I want to be clear, the descriptions are extremely graphic. I'm sure they were written this way to highlight what kind of hell children (as well as adults) face in these situations.
The introduction was brutal and stomach turning and the rest of the story meandered down a fantastical path into the absurd. I could excuse the beginning when I thought there was a message to be had but once it worked its way into everything bad happening all of the time regardless of believability, I was over it. I could get past the childlike writing style because I assumed like the graphic details, it was written that way to send a message. I could not get past the mediocre characters and the beyond belief storyline.
Two stars changed to one after I tried for hours to find even one positive thing I could say in this review.
April 25, 2019
I received a free e-copy of Believe Like a Child by Paige Dearth from Goodreads for my honest review.
First off I should warn you that this book will not be for everyone. This book is sad and very hard to read much less stomach. I did read the entire book, as I felt like I was so far in I needed to know how thing turned out. There is so much emotion written in this book. The pain deep in your heart and soul you will feel for Alessa and Lucy will have you so choked up at time you will need to put the book down and just concentrate on your breathing. This book deals with Child rape, kidnapping, prostitution, torture and drugs. It is a book that I don't regret reading as I think these subjects are so often ignored. I, myself lived a childhood of abuse and there are signs that people need to pay attention too. If anything it might raise awareness for these horrible crimes. More needs to be done to help innocent children from these kind of things and stronger punishments need to be upheld.
First off I should warn you that this book will not be for everyone. This book is sad and very hard to read much less stomach. I did read the entire book, as I felt like I was so far in I needed to know how thing turned out. There is so much emotion written in this book. The pain deep in your heart and soul you will feel for Alessa and Lucy will have you so choked up at time you will need to put the book down and just concentrate on your breathing. This book deals with Child rape, kidnapping, prostitution, torture and drugs. It is a book that I don't regret reading as I think these subjects are so often ignored. I, myself lived a childhood of abuse and there are signs that people need to pay attention too. If anything it might raise awareness for these horrible crimes. More needs to be done to help innocent children from these kind of things and stronger punishments need to be upheld.
November 16, 2012
When I agreed to review Believe Like a Chile by Paige Dearth, I knew I was in for a bit of a tough story. Just the synopsis of the book, which is in some ways like Ms. Dearth's own background, as she explained in her email, was bracing and eye-opening. The subject of child abuse and pedophilia are very tough subjects, but it was Dearth's candor in talking about these subjects in her email that definitely caught my attention. I decided then and there that this story needed a wider audience, as its message is very important. So, albeit in a small way, I decided to review this book and promote it as best I could here on the blog. So, here it is.
Dearth begins her book with a young girl named Alessa. Alessa's home life leaves a lot to be desired, with a mother that constantly berates her over her appearance (she is paler and lankier than her siblings) and her demeanor. Although she does nothing to deserve it, Alessa is beaten by her mother with a wooden spoon. This changes, however, when her Uncle Danny moves in with the family. Although her earlier memories of the man are pleasant and fun, Uncle Danny becomes a very different person when he begins to live with Alessa. At night he begins to psychologically manipulate and rape her, which continues for years unchecked. Once, Alessa gathered the courage to tell her mother, but she was met with a barrage of insults and comments that she was a liar. Eventually, Alessa befriends a schoolmate and is able to escape Uncle Danny more often, only to end up in a situation where she must leave her home due to something that occurs with this schoolmate (I won't give too much away). She flees to North Philadelphia with a train ticket and $2,000 in cash, and is able to secure a dingy apartment and a job at a discount store. She soon befriends a woman named Tasha, who eventually introduces her to her brother, Harlin. Harlin is a drug dealer and is known for his violence and protection he provides to those he deems worthy in North Philadelphia. Although she is initially scared of Harlin, Alessa eventually begins to befriend him, and even thinks she may like him. This all changes, however, when things again spiral out of control for Alessa and she is forced to flee again to save her own life. What will become of her? Will she ever be able to escape her demons?
So, with that short synopsis, you can see why this book is definitely an intense read. What struck me most about Dearth's writing style is that she pulled no punches, nor elaborated on any detail too profusely. It read like a detached third person narrative, explaining the facts and nothing more in the worst sections of Alessa's life, then providing a short section on how Alessa felt and how hopeless she felt after the repeated abuses. It was definitely interesting, as it was in no way influencing the reader to feel a particular way, or encouraging him/her to feel bad for Alessa. Obviously, I felt extremely bad for her, and in a way I think the bracing format that described everything exactly as it happened is a good way to go about telling these kinds of stories. We're often confronted with tales of sexual assault (e.g. Sandusky trial), yet often we talk about it in abstract ways, never actually describing the horrors the abused must endure. By specifically stating what happens, Dearth is plainly laying out the facts and forcing us to deal with the gravity of the situation. I applaud her for doing this, as it will start a dialogue that hopefully will end with better protection of young people from pedophiles and ensure that these crimes never happen again. Until we really face this problem head on, instead of pretending it isn't happening (e.g. Catholic Church scandals, Boy Scouts), we can't adequately treat it. I'm glad that Dearth was able to write this, as I believe it probably helped her heal as much as it helped me realize that these crimes aren't something we can ignore. So, if you aren't moved enough to already do so, pick up a copy of this book and read it. The help that Alessa eventually receives is enough to restore your faith in humanity.
Todd (Reflections of a Book Addict)
Originally Posted: http://wp.me/p18lIL-1jR
Dearth begins her book with a young girl named Alessa. Alessa's home life leaves a lot to be desired, with a mother that constantly berates her over her appearance (she is paler and lankier than her siblings) and her demeanor. Although she does nothing to deserve it, Alessa is beaten by her mother with a wooden spoon. This changes, however, when her Uncle Danny moves in with the family. Although her earlier memories of the man are pleasant and fun, Uncle Danny becomes a very different person when he begins to live with Alessa. At night he begins to psychologically manipulate and rape her, which continues for years unchecked. Once, Alessa gathered the courage to tell her mother, but she was met with a barrage of insults and comments that she was a liar. Eventually, Alessa befriends a schoolmate and is able to escape Uncle Danny more often, only to end up in a situation where she must leave her home due to something that occurs with this schoolmate (I won't give too much away). She flees to North Philadelphia with a train ticket and $2,000 in cash, and is able to secure a dingy apartment and a job at a discount store. She soon befriends a woman named Tasha, who eventually introduces her to her brother, Harlin. Harlin is a drug dealer and is known for his violence and protection he provides to those he deems worthy in North Philadelphia. Although she is initially scared of Harlin, Alessa eventually begins to befriend him, and even thinks she may like him. This all changes, however, when things again spiral out of control for Alessa and she is forced to flee again to save her own life. What will become of her? Will she ever be able to escape her demons?
So, with that short synopsis, you can see why this book is definitely an intense read. What struck me most about Dearth's writing style is that she pulled no punches, nor elaborated on any detail too profusely. It read like a detached third person narrative, explaining the facts and nothing more in the worst sections of Alessa's life, then providing a short section on how Alessa felt and how hopeless she felt after the repeated abuses. It was definitely interesting, as it was in no way influencing the reader to feel a particular way, or encouraging him/her to feel bad for Alessa. Obviously, I felt extremely bad for her, and in a way I think the bracing format that described everything exactly as it happened is a good way to go about telling these kinds of stories. We're often confronted with tales of sexual assault (e.g. Sandusky trial), yet often we talk about it in abstract ways, never actually describing the horrors the abused must endure. By specifically stating what happens, Dearth is plainly laying out the facts and forcing us to deal with the gravity of the situation. I applaud her for doing this, as it will start a dialogue that hopefully will end with better protection of young people from pedophiles and ensure that these crimes never happen again. Until we really face this problem head on, instead of pretending it isn't happening (e.g. Catholic Church scandals, Boy Scouts), we can't adequately treat it. I'm glad that Dearth was able to write this, as I believe it probably helped her heal as much as it helped me realize that these crimes aren't something we can ignore. So, if you aren't moved enough to already do so, pick up a copy of this book and read it. The help that Alessa eventually receives is enough to restore your faith in humanity.
Todd (Reflections of a Book Addict)
Originally Posted: http://wp.me/p18lIL-1jR
May 29, 2013
~This is a completely unsolicited review, independent of any obligation real or imagined by anyone.~
Let me say first that I am an editor, and as such I read a lot. Now I will set aside my day job, and talk about this story. It drew me in from the beginning with a story so honest, so terrible that you knew the author had been there, done that. The story is an impressive tale that covers a topic most people shy from. Most people would never, even in fiction, be as honest in what really happens in life. I sincerely wish there was a higher rating than five stars, for I believe Paige Dearth to be one of the very few authors I know of that I would give a higher rating to. WARNING there is graphic honesty about the sex trade, and the sexual abuse of children. For me, this very honesty made the story better. It showed the horror children live through, and what is possible to over come.
Stepping back into my job as an editor, yes there are a few small 'boo boos' in the story. I would be less than honest if I didn't mention them. However, whomever did edit this did a good job. None of the tiny mistakes will detract from the story, nor would 'fixing' them have enhanced the story. I will be reading more of the work by this author. Count on it! May I also say that as Ms. Dearth, herself, was a victim of childhood abuse, she gives the look from the 'inside' in a way no other could. Well done!!
Let me say first that I am an editor, and as such I read a lot. Now I will set aside my day job, and talk about this story. It drew me in from the beginning with a story so honest, so terrible that you knew the author had been there, done that. The story is an impressive tale that covers a topic most people shy from. Most people would never, even in fiction, be as honest in what really happens in life. I sincerely wish there was a higher rating than five stars, for I believe Paige Dearth to be one of the very few authors I know of that I would give a higher rating to. WARNING there is graphic honesty about the sex trade, and the sexual abuse of children. For me, this very honesty made the story better. It showed the horror children live through, and what is possible to over come.
Stepping back into my job as an editor, yes there are a few small 'boo boos' in the story. I would be less than honest if I didn't mention them. However, whomever did edit this did a good job. None of the tiny mistakes will detract from the story, nor would 'fixing' them have enhanced the story. I will be reading more of the work by this author. Count on it! May I also say that as Ms. Dearth, herself, was a victim of childhood abuse, she gives the look from the 'inside' in a way no other could. Well done!!
January 22, 2013
As compelling and important as the topic of this book was, I had to force myself to finish it. What I disliked intensely about this book was the almost childish way of writing. In my opinion, had this book been written better, it would have been an extremely strong work.
The topic is something that needs to be spoken about, and kudos to the author for being brave enough to tackle it, particularly because she herself suffered sexual abuse. However, I found the style of writing extremely basic and littered with unneeded quips that actually made me roll my eyes.
This is a book that, due to the subject matter and story, will haunt and disturb you. However you may find yourself not wanting to read it because of the overtly simplistic and banal way it was written. I didn't expect or want Shakespeare, but when a novel makes me distracted by its writing (in a negative way), I find it disappointing as it doesn't allow me to escape or believe in the story.
The topic is something that needs to be spoken about, and kudos to the author for being brave enough to tackle it, particularly because she herself suffered sexual abuse. However, I found the style of writing extremely basic and littered with unneeded quips that actually made me roll my eyes.
This is a book that, due to the subject matter and story, will haunt and disturb you. However you may find yourself not wanting to read it because of the overtly simplistic and banal way it was written. I didn't expect or want Shakespeare, but when a novel makes me distracted by its writing (in a negative way), I find it disappointing as it doesn't allow me to escape or believe in the story.
October 5, 2015
This is one book I know I won't forget. If that sounds like a negative premise, then let me just tell you this - this is the kind of story that'll stick with you and change how you might look at things from then on.
Paige got in touch with me, and offered me to review her book and after her touching e-mail, there was no way I could say no to a story that needed to be told. Some people write for fun, for money, for joy; and then there's books like Paige's which are written to inspire and are stories that need to be told. I'm glad I read her book and I write this review in the hopes that more people will be encouraged to take this roller coaster of a book and feel inspired after reading it.
The book is Page's real life story, and she paints a picture for us of the trouble, turmoil, abuse and neglect that she went through. She faced hurdle after hurdle in her life, only to overcome them and now stand at the brink of life where she can look back and be proud of the journey she has come on.
The opening page alone is one that captures your attention and from there on, despite the experiences that you see Paige suffer, you know you can't put the book down, simply 'cause if it's hard to read, how much harder is it for the person that went through it all?
This is a in-you-face kind of book, with nothing held back - which makes me admire Paige even more, for she wasn't afraid of telling her story, with the knowledge that the worst was behind her. With poised and fluid writing, and descriptions that allow you to stand in her shoes, her writing was one that allowed you to take everything in all at once and feel the overwhelming emotions of fear, anger, love, hate, everything that Paige's character inspires in you.
For her courage, for the unbelievable story of bravery and inspiration, and for the bold truth that this book is, I highly rate and admire Paige and her story and thank her for sending me her book, and hope that she will take this review as a statement and testament that her dreams have already come true :)
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Paige got in touch with me, and offered me to review her book and after her touching e-mail, there was no way I could say no to a story that needed to be told. Some people write for fun, for money, for joy; and then there's books like Paige's which are written to inspire and are stories that need to be told. I'm glad I read her book and I write this review in the hopes that more people will be encouraged to take this roller coaster of a book and feel inspired after reading it.
The book is Page's real life story, and she paints a picture for us of the trouble, turmoil, abuse and neglect that she went through. She faced hurdle after hurdle in her life, only to overcome them and now stand at the brink of life where she can look back and be proud of the journey she has come on.
The opening page alone is one that captures your attention and from there on, despite the experiences that you see Paige suffer, you know you can't put the book down, simply 'cause if it's hard to read, how much harder is it for the person that went through it all?
This is a in-you-face kind of book, with nothing held back - which makes me admire Paige even more, for she wasn't afraid of telling her story, with the knowledge that the worst was behind her. With poised and fluid writing, and descriptions that allow you to stand in her shoes, her writing was one that allowed you to take everything in all at once and feel the overwhelming emotions of fear, anger, love, hate, everything that Paige's character inspires in you.
For her courage, for the unbelievable story of bravery and inspiration, and for the bold truth that this book is, I highly rate and admire Paige and her story and thank her for sending me her book, and hope that she will take this review as a statement and testament that her dreams have already come true :)
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
November 2, 2012
I honestly don't even know if I can write a review to express how powerful this book is. I can never judge people again.
Just from the first sentence of this novel, my heart stopped. The novel's main character, Alessa, has the most heart breaking story and I was drawn right into it. The world tends to throw things like rape and abuse into the shadows, but this book sure doesn't.
I honestly have to say that this book takes on a whole new point of view, and that is it's best quality. Before I read this book, I thought of people differently. If someone told me about the things that Alessa had done, I would've hated her. But now that I've heard her side of things, I think she is amazing. I won't ever think of people the same way again. I really think that out of all of the books I've read, this is the one that will stick with me forever.
Just from the first sentence of this novel, my heart stopped. The novel's main character, Alessa, has the most heart breaking story and I was drawn right into it. The world tends to throw things like rape and abuse into the shadows, but this book sure doesn't.
I honestly have to say that this book takes on a whole new point of view, and that is it's best quality. Before I read this book, I thought of people differently. If someone told me about the things that Alessa had done, I would've hated her. But now that I've heard her side of things, I think she is amazing. I won't ever think of people the same way again. I really think that out of all of the books I've read, this is the one that will stick with me forever.
October 7, 2015
From the writing style to the storyline to the characterization. I had a problem with all of it.
This was a dark tale. And while I thought at first it was good because it raises awareness to some problems in life I felt as if Alessa was cut out to be a victim from the start (I never think it is the victim's fault, but a message in the undercurrent was you are born a victim and you don't really ever get out. This is something I can't agree with) and she kept on being victimized from every angle.
This one is just not for me.
An Arc was provided through NetGalley.
This was a dark tale. And while I thought at first it was good because it raises awareness to some problems in life I felt as if Alessa was cut out to be a victim from the start (I never think it is the victim's fault, but a message in the undercurrent was you are born a victim and you don't really ever get out. This is something I can't agree with) and she kept on being victimized from every angle.
This one is just not for me.
An Arc was provided through NetGalley.
February 5, 2020
This book was just okay.
Don't get me wrong the story is intense and the events that take place will push every boundary and set off every trigger however, something about the way the book is written just didn't work for me. I guess for me this is a powerful story and the writing just doesn't pack the punch that it should.
Don't get me wrong the story is intense and the events that take place will push every boundary and set off every trigger however, something about the way the book is written just didn't work for me. I guess for me this is a powerful story and the writing just doesn't pack the punch that it should.
January 20, 2015
I felt compelled to read this, especially after researching the author and her life. I really wish I hadn't.
The book starts out with a 6 year old child being raped by her uncle and a mother who doesn't care as long as the uncle donates money to the household. This goes on for 10 years. Aleesa doesn't tell a teacher ... doesn't tell her best and only friend ...and doesn't tell her friend's mother until her friend is killed.
She decides at age 16 that she's had enough and runs to freedom from all the abuse. I was looking for the story to turn into something other than heart-wrenching and depressing . I was looking for hope ... for that light at the end of the tunnel for this child. It didn't come.
In no way do I not feel for the author's early life, and I hope that writing about her experiences in literary form have truly helped her ... but this is not expressed well with this book.
(received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
The book starts out with a 6 year old child being raped by her uncle and a mother who doesn't care as long as the uncle donates money to the household. This goes on for 10 years. Aleesa doesn't tell a teacher ... doesn't tell her best and only friend ...and doesn't tell her friend's mother until her friend is killed.
She decides at age 16 that she's had enough and runs to freedom from all the abuse. I was looking for the story to turn into something other than heart-wrenching and depressing . I was looking for hope ... for that light at the end of the tunnel for this child. It didn't come.
In no way do I not feel for the author's early life, and I hope that writing about her experiences in literary form have truly helped her ... but this is not expressed well with this book.
(received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
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November 14, 2021This review was first posted on Northern Plunder, if you want to see more reviews please click here.
I honestly do not think I've felt such a range of emotions throughout a book before, it has left me somewhat speechless As I was finishing up reading it I burst into tears, not just because what had happened on the page in front of me but because I'd held back such strong emotions throughout the every page, it certainly becomes a weight and really touches your heart. Sounds silly I know. This story follows Alessa throughout her roller coaster of a life - and by this I don't mean its thrilling and exciting, I mean it has plenty of ups and downs - a few of my friends asked myself how I could possibly sit, read, by choice, and enjoy a book where rape and abuse happens for what feels like 80% of the book and I felt a little lost and first because it does seem an absurbed thing to do when I choose to read to relax and as first I did struggle getting through pages of the book but soon I found the more I read, the harder the book was to put down, whilst what I was reading was far from pleasant it was interesting, interesting to see how Alessa not only handled herself and the situations she was faced with time and time again, but to see how as a person she grew, bloomed if you will, into this amazing woman. Not only that, we can't simply sit back and pretend things like this don't happen, because they do and you'd have thought by now the world would have changed but its probably something that's never going to happen, no matter how hard we all wish. Anyway back to Alessa and her story, like I said it really is a tragedy, but on her journey she gains a new family and gets to live and cherish a life that we all take for granted. It is an amazing book. I'm not even going to delve into the ending which led me tears, that is something you're going to have to read about for yourself. But just remember no matter how insignificant you feel, if you will it enough you can change your life and the lives of those around you and make a difference in this world. I really really recommend this book and that's why I'm giving it a 4.5 star rating, I can't quiet commit to the full 5 but wow, it's just amazing.
I honestly do not think I've felt such a range of emotions throughout a book before, it has left me somewhat speechless As I was finishing up reading it I burst into tears, not just because what had happened on the page in front of me but because I'd held back such strong emotions throughout the every page, it certainly becomes a weight and really touches your heart. Sounds silly I know. This story follows Alessa throughout her roller coaster of a life - and by this I don't mean its thrilling and exciting, I mean it has plenty of ups and downs - a few of my friends asked myself how I could possibly sit, read, by choice, and enjoy a book where rape and abuse happens for what feels like 80% of the book and I felt a little lost and first because it does seem an absurbed thing to do when I choose to read to relax and as first I did struggle getting through pages of the book but soon I found the more I read, the harder the book was to put down, whilst what I was reading was far from pleasant it was interesting, interesting to see how Alessa not only handled herself and the situations she was faced with time and time again, but to see how as a person she grew, bloomed if you will, into this amazing woman. Not only that, we can't simply sit back and pretend things like this don't happen, because they do and you'd have thought by now the world would have changed but its probably something that's never going to happen, no matter how hard we all wish. Anyway back to Alessa and her story, like I said it really is a tragedy, but on her journey she gains a new family and gets to live and cherish a life that we all take for granted. It is an amazing book. I'm not even going to delve into the ending which led me tears, that is something you're going to have to read about for yourself. But just remember no matter how insignificant you feel, if you will it enough you can change your life and the lives of those around you and make a difference in this world. I really really recommend this book and that's why I'm giving it a 4.5 star rating, I can't quiet commit to the full 5 but wow, it's just amazing.
May 11, 2022
This is my second book by this author.
It took a while since I've read the book "One Among Us" by this author at last time.
Because story of her books are very dark and shocking. Need some time and courage to read next one.
And I got free Kindle book! Thank you very much! It's right time!
Author Paige Dearth is a victim of child abuse/sexual abuse, and the beginning of this book is bases on her real life. I can't imagine how she's been through that much and survived.
This book was also hard to read ( because of too much detail of abuse scenes), but I forced to read. Made me think that I need to know about child abuse, sexual abuse and drugs that has been huge problems nowadays.
It's so scary those things destroy everything from inside to outside.
First half is about journey of Alessa who survived from hell.
Second half is about people's judgement of her past what she's done.
The end was so shocking.
This is not only the story of book. It might be happening everywhere or somewhere we can't see right now.
So many victims who haven't been loved and don't know how to love.
I got so much emotional.
After finish, I have two questions.
* Why took so long time till police came over the Harlin's house? Police know where he lives.
* How's Zoe doing?
These are what I am wondering.....So I rated 4 stars.
It took a while since I've read the book "One Among Us" by this author at last time.
Because story of her books are very dark and shocking. Need some time and courage to read next one.
And I got free Kindle book! Thank you very much! It's right time!
Author Paige Dearth is a victim of child abuse/sexual abuse, and the beginning of this book is bases on her real life. I can't imagine how she's been through that much and survived.
This book was also hard to read ( because of too much detail of abuse scenes), but I forced to read. Made me think that I need to know about child abuse, sexual abuse and drugs that has been huge problems nowadays.
It's so scary those things destroy everything from inside to outside.
First half is about journey of Alessa who survived from hell.
Second half is about people's judgement of her past what she's done.
The end was so shocking.
This is not only the story of book. It might be happening everywhere or somewhere we can't see right now.
So many victims who haven't been loved and don't know how to love.
I got so much emotional.
After finish, I have two questions.
* Why took so long time till police came over the Harlin's house? Police know where he lives.
* How's Zoe doing?
These are what I am wondering.....So I rated 4 stars.
December 14, 2011
This story sent shudders thru me! I am a very lucky woman as I have never been in any situations like this and I thank God all the time for that small miracle. What really upsets me the most is that this girl's mother knew what was going on and she did nothing because her brother paid her $750 a month to live there. Her excuse was that she needed the money to keep her family up, but at the expense of her daughter? Really? This is no mother in my opinion! She needs to be charged with accessory to rape or more. When Alessa tried to get her mother to help her all the mother did was call her a liar and a pig and she threatened to beat her to death.
Finally, at age fourteen, she has a best friend named Rhonda, and Rhonda's mom Zoe. She loves both of them because of the love that is shown to her. So, when tragedy strikes, it devastates Alessa. One night while over at Rhonda's house a woman shows up accusing Zoe of sleeping with her husband. Zoe tells her she did not know that the man was married but the wife pulls a gun and shoots Zoe and Rhonda. Zoe is not seriously hurt but Rhonda dies. Poor Alessa's mom makes matter worse by coming to the hospital and calling Zoe a whore and shouting and causing a scene. She is forbidden to ever go to Zoe's house again.
When Alessa is almost 17 her parents go to Atlantic City and leave her alone with the uncle. The uncle said he was having some friends over and that Alessa was expected to have sex with all of them! She escapes and runs to Zoe, who gives her $2,000 and some clothes that belonged to Rhonda. She went to North Philly and got a job at at Dollar Store and met a new friend named Tasha. One night while walking home she was attacked by a gang of boys and was raped by one of them. Before the others could rape her, Tasha's brother shows up with a gun and his gang and they rescue Alessa. Tasha's brother then killed the boy and then cut the other boy's penis off then poured kerosene over him and set him on fire! He also went to the Dollar Store and made the manager put Alessa on the day shift.
Unfortunately, he wanted more also. He got her to dance in a strip joint in the beginning and then later he wanted her to do more. He started charging men to be with Alessa because he had become addicted to cocaine and needed the money. With Tasha's help she was able to escape to a homeless shelter where whe met a little girl named Lucy who had been sexually abused by both parents. Alessa found them both a warm place to stay and she started back dancing to earn momey. One night while walking home they are both stopped by yet another gang that wants Lucy. Alessa tells them to leave her alone and take her instead.
Lucy was sent to a nearby restaurant and the gang raped and beat Alessa so bad she had broken arms and legs. After several hours Lucy got scared because Alessa had not come so she called a social worker that both of them knew and the social worker called the cops and they found Alessa unconscious and nearly dead. She was taken to a hospital and stayed there for about a week. The social worker found them a place to stay and got her set up with a therapist who helped Alessa heal, both emotionally and physically. Alessa finally came to understand the true meaning of love and knew that the hell of a life she had had was finally over. She married the therapist and the both of them raised Lucy. She was finally free!
Finally, at age fourteen, she has a best friend named Rhonda, and Rhonda's mom Zoe. She loves both of them because of the love that is shown to her. So, when tragedy strikes, it devastates Alessa. One night while over at Rhonda's house a woman shows up accusing Zoe of sleeping with her husband. Zoe tells her she did not know that the man was married but the wife pulls a gun and shoots Zoe and Rhonda. Zoe is not seriously hurt but Rhonda dies. Poor Alessa's mom makes matter worse by coming to the hospital and calling Zoe a whore and shouting and causing a scene. She is forbidden to ever go to Zoe's house again.
When Alessa is almost 17 her parents go to Atlantic City and leave her alone with the uncle. The uncle said he was having some friends over and that Alessa was expected to have sex with all of them! She escapes and runs to Zoe, who gives her $2,000 and some clothes that belonged to Rhonda. She went to North Philly and got a job at at Dollar Store and met a new friend named Tasha. One night while walking home she was attacked by a gang of boys and was raped by one of them. Before the others could rape her, Tasha's brother shows up with a gun and his gang and they rescue Alessa. Tasha's brother then killed the boy and then cut the other boy's penis off then poured kerosene over him and set him on fire! He also went to the Dollar Store and made the manager put Alessa on the day shift.
Unfortunately, he wanted more also. He got her to dance in a strip joint in the beginning and then later he wanted her to do more. He started charging men to be with Alessa because he had become addicted to cocaine and needed the money. With Tasha's help she was able to escape to a homeless shelter where whe met a little girl named Lucy who had been sexually abused by both parents. Alessa found them both a warm place to stay and she started back dancing to earn momey. One night while walking home they are both stopped by yet another gang that wants Lucy. Alessa tells them to leave her alone and take her instead.
Lucy was sent to a nearby restaurant and the gang raped and beat Alessa so bad she had broken arms and legs. After several hours Lucy got scared because Alessa had not come so she called a social worker that both of them knew and the social worker called the cops and they found Alessa unconscious and nearly dead. She was taken to a hospital and stayed there for about a week. The social worker found them a place to stay and got her set up with a therapist who helped Alessa heal, both emotionally and physically. Alessa finally came to understand the true meaning of love and knew that the hell of a life she had had was finally over. She married the therapist and the both of them raised Lucy. She was finally free!
December 8, 2011
Believe Like a Child is a roller coaster ride of emotions, hurt, pain, anger, hope, love, and trust all wrapped up into a neat little bundle that will open your eyes to something that actually happens every single day all around the world. Alessa is dealt a crappy hand from the moment she entered the world. Born into a family that is dirt poor, with only her Grandmother ever showing her any real love, her mother takes in Alessa's uncle to live with them to help pay the bills. At age seven, she begins to endure continuous sexual abuse from him That lasts until the one night that she witnesses her best friend, and really only friend, being shot. Taking off on her own, Alessa endures too many to count highs and lows. When things start going well, something is always waiting around the corner to bring her down. After suffering sexual, mental, and physical abuse from just about everyone she meets, homelessness, and betrayal she never gives up hope. Alessa's strength and resilience is encouraging and you can't help but root for her to over come everything thrown her way.
I had a hard time pulling myself back into my normal life each time I put the book down for the night. Alessa comes to life in such detail you feel like you know her. Believe Like a Child is a no-holds barred, the truth is in your face novel. It is very graphic in parts but I honestly believe it has to be to make it what it is. The cover is haunting, reminding you each time you look at it that hush-hush child abuse really happens and makes your heart break. I found tears running down my face in parts and cheering out load at others. The ending will grip at your heart strings and leave you haunted when you finish the last page.
Believe Like a Child is a wonderfully written first novel by Paige Dearth and I highly recommend reading it. Paige has a real talent to draw you right into her world and keep you captivated until the end.
I had a hard time pulling myself back into my normal life each time I put the book down for the night. Alessa comes to life in such detail you feel like you know her. Believe Like a Child is a no-holds barred, the truth is in your face novel. It is very graphic in parts but I honestly believe it has to be to make it what it is. The cover is haunting, reminding you each time you look at it that hush-hush child abuse really happens and makes your heart break. I found tears running down my face in parts and cheering out load at others. The ending will grip at your heart strings and leave you haunted when you finish the last page.
Believe Like a Child is a wonderfully written first novel by Paige Dearth and I highly recommend reading it. Paige has a real talent to draw you right into her world and keep you captivated until the end.
April 14, 2015
This is the third book I have read by Paige Dearth, I read them out of order, but that did not effect the story at all. I will start by saying this is a novel with language, violence and child abuse, so be forewarned instead of leaving a bad review based on those issues. This also contains love and hope. This grabbed my attention from the first page and kept me hooked to the shocking end. It was not always easy to read but it is worth it. We follow Alessa, an abused child. She is unloved and abused at home and when she forges ahead on her own she faces trials beyond belief. She also finds the love she has needed and craved all her life. In Lucy she finds unconditional famy love. In Ebby she finds the love and hope of friendship. In Remo she finds healthy and fulfilling romantic love. There is hope in the darkness.
I have read some other reviews about how dark this book is. Yes it is dark but look for the light. It is there. Child abuse, sexual abuse, rape and homelessness do happen but people do survive. As for the end, I won't give it away but what would someone who has survived all that Alessa has do when all hope is taken away?
Just always be thankful for what you have, especially the little things. Read this book, then give someone you love an extra hug. Tell someone in your life how much you need them and appreciate their love and support.
I would recommend this book to others, not always easy to read but these things do happen all the time. This is subject matter that needs to be written about and read.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This did not effect my review one way or the other. I was a fan after I read the first book.
I have read some other reviews about how dark this book is. Yes it is dark but look for the light. It is there. Child abuse, sexual abuse, rape and homelessness do happen but people do survive. As for the end, I won't give it away but what would someone who has survived all that Alessa has do when all hope is taken away?
Just always be thankful for what you have, especially the little things. Read this book, then give someone you love an extra hug. Tell someone in your life how much you need them and appreciate their love and support.
I would recommend this book to others, not always easy to read but these things do happen all the time. This is subject matter that needs to be written about and read.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This did not effect my review one way or the other. I was a fan after I read the first book.
January 18, 2014
I just finished this book and honestly, felt let down. Then, I start reading all the raving reviews and it makes me cringe.
I'm not saying this isn't a powerful story. It is. It is a subject that should be brought to light because there are so many children out there like Alessa, who suffer in silence.
The beginning is very powerful. Alessa's story draws you in. How could someone suffer through such a horrific childhood? How will she come out of this? Will she come out of this? Those are all the things that were going through my head as I began her story.
As I got further along, I really struggled to continue. The dialogue felt so silly and contrived. The writing was not nearly as strong as the story being told and that made it very difficult to read. I felt no connection to the characters because they were so poorly written.
I had to force myself to finish it. Once I did, it felt very empty. I like the twist at the end but it wasn't enough to redeem the rest of the book. Not for me anyway.
This could have been such a powerful book. If the author had invested more into the characterization and the writing, it would have been an excellent read.
I know most people will hate me for saying she didn't invest herself in this story. I realize she used her own personal experiences and I don't discount that. It takes a lot of courage to talk about that kind of abuse and to put it out there so honestly. I commend her for that. I just wish, for her sake and for the sake of all the victims out there who deserve a voice, that this had been a stronger work.
I am moving on to her other book in the hopes that it will be more impressive.
I'm not saying this isn't a powerful story. It is. It is a subject that should be brought to light because there are so many children out there like Alessa, who suffer in silence.
The beginning is very powerful. Alessa's story draws you in. How could someone suffer through such a horrific childhood? How will she come out of this? Will she come out of this? Those are all the things that were going through my head as I began her story.
As I got further along, I really struggled to continue. The dialogue felt so silly and contrived. The writing was not nearly as strong as the story being told and that made it very difficult to read. I felt no connection to the characters because they were so poorly written.
I had to force myself to finish it. Once I did, it felt very empty. I like the twist at the end but it wasn't enough to redeem the rest of the book. Not for me anyway.
This could have been such a powerful book. If the author had invested more into the characterization and the writing, it would have been an excellent read.
I know most people will hate me for saying she didn't invest herself in this story. I realize she used her own personal experiences and I don't discount that. It takes a lot of courage to talk about that kind of abuse and to put it out there so honestly. I commend her for that. I just wish, for her sake and for the sake of all the victims out there who deserve a voice, that this had been a stronger work.
I am moving on to her other book in the hopes that it will be more impressive.
October 23, 2015
And this should be in the hall of fame!
OMG! I cried from the first chapter until the last page! This story is an awesome read, a tear jerker, dramatic and should be told over and over again. This will give you nightmares, dreams, and goals. How can I say nightmares and dreams in the same sentence?
Alessa is the character that will stick with you until your dying days. It brings tears to my eyes even to write this review. You will not be able to put this book done.
I commend Alessa, she is strong, determined, smart, caring, everything you shouldn't find in a person that has endured everything that she has. And that is what made her more lovable... This book gave me the strength to face everyday with the biggest smile that I can just cause Alessa did.
This was far past just a story, it should be an omen, something everyone should follow (to a certain extent) The author told such a valuable message here.
Oh and this had all the drama that you can think of. The characters were all so believable, and real. In your face raw as hell real! and the cover it went so perfectly well with what's between the pages.
I'm so happy the author gave me a chance to read this story and even still I want to buy the book again.. and again.....
Oh let me add, the ending was superb and something that was so unexpected! I was furious but it bittersweet.
OMG! I cried from the first chapter until the last page! This story is an awesome read, a tear jerker, dramatic and should be told over and over again. This will give you nightmares, dreams, and goals. How can I say nightmares and dreams in the same sentence?
Alessa is the character that will stick with you until your dying days. It brings tears to my eyes even to write this review. You will not be able to put this book done.
I commend Alessa, she is strong, determined, smart, caring, everything you shouldn't find in a person that has endured everything that she has. And that is what made her more lovable... This book gave me the strength to face everyday with the biggest smile that I can just cause Alessa did.
This was far past just a story, it should be an omen, something everyone should follow (to a certain extent) The author told such a valuable message here.
Oh and this had all the drama that you can think of. The characters were all so believable, and real. In your face raw as hell real! and the cover it went so perfectly well with what's between the pages.
I'm so happy the author gave me a chance to read this story and even still I want to buy the book again.. and again.....
Oh let me add, the ending was superb and something that was so unexpected! I was furious but it bittersweet.
February 22, 2022
Hard
As always a very hard book to read but bringing awareness could save a life. Not the ending I was expecting.
As always a very hard book to read but bringing awareness could save a life. Not the ending I was expecting.
May 19, 2023
O' My Good!!!
What an awful book. Not that the book is written poorly.
The descriptions and details are amazing. The characters are fleshed out and have a lot of real emotions and express them freely.
Sounds fine so far. But wait.
Alissa is the main character and her life is a mess and ends in a mess. Not her fault in any way.
Starting at an early age she becomes a sex toy for her fat gross Uncle. She tells her mother who tells her to shut up telling lies. And the money he is giving her mother pays the rent. So she was sold to her Uncle for rent money.
Bad start. But it only gets worse for her.
While homeless she befriends a nine-year girl, Lucy, who ran away from home because her parents were sexually abusing her.
Before she meets Lucy she is a sex slave for Hood and his gang for their protection. From whom??
Should I continue/
There are a couple of bright spots in the story, but they don't make up for the rest of her life story.
Readers beware!
What an awful book. Not that the book is written poorly.
The descriptions and details are amazing. The characters are fleshed out and have a lot of real emotions and express them freely.
Sounds fine so far. But wait.
Alissa is the main character and her life is a mess and ends in a mess. Not her fault in any way.
Starting at an early age she becomes a sex toy for her fat gross Uncle. She tells her mother who tells her to shut up telling lies. And the money he is giving her mother pays the rent. So she was sold to her Uncle for rent money.
Bad start. But it only gets worse for her.
While homeless she befriends a nine-year girl, Lucy, who ran away from home because her parents were sexually abusing her.
Before she meets Lucy she is a sex slave for Hood and his gang for their protection. From whom??
Should I continue/
There are a couple of bright spots in the story, but they don't make up for the rest of her life story.
Readers beware!
May 8, 2014
I thought this book was a bit better written than her other book, even though this one was the first one. I found that much of the book was restating the same things over again and that there was a lot of over explanation of actions and thoughts. It was a very amateurishly written book.
There was a lot of graphic rape scenes so those who can't read that type of thing, this book probably isn't for you.
Even though I had these issues with it, I found the book to be raw and real. This is what it is to be in the life the characters in this book find themselves in. This is what it is to be an abused, homeless teen trying to survive. I would read another book by this author.
The rest of this review is full of spoilers, so if you haven't read the book yet and intend to do so, I suggest you don't read the rest of this review.
There was a lot of graphic rape scenes so those who can't read that type of thing, this book probably isn't for you.
Even though I had these issues with it, I found the book to be raw and real. This is what it is to be in the life the characters in this book find themselves in. This is what it is to be an abused, homeless teen trying to survive. I would read another book by this author.
The rest of this review is full of spoilers, so if you haven't read the book yet and intend to do so, I suggest you don't read the rest of this review.
March 28, 2017
2.5 stars
IF YOU ARE TRIGGERED BY RAPE, TORTURE, KIDNAPPING, PROSTITUTION, CHILD RAPE, DRUG USE, OR ANY OTHER EVILS THIS BOOK IS NOT FOR YOU!
I've had this book on my to-be-read shelf on Goodreads for a long time now. I've entered to win it through Goodreads giveaways every chance it becomes available and was even starting to consider purchasing it through Amazon, boy am I glad I was finally able to get it through my library!
While I understand the intention of this book was to shine light on some extremely difficult to discuss topics I felt a majority of it was unnecessarily vivid in description. I understand the concept of rape, believe me I understand that it is a disgusting act committed by truly messed up people. What I do not need however is an in depth detail of a seven year old having this happen to her by her uncle.
The story itself was fairly decent however the writing felt very simple. The descriptions all felt very similar with little to nothing changing except the occasional scenery and character names. Literally it felt like she just exchanged one rapist for another throughout. Then you get a glimpse of her living a happy normal life only to be thrown right back into hell. Through the whole book I kept thinking, was it the authors intention to just keep giving Alessa the short end of the stick or was she trying to say that anyone that gets raped from that young of an age is bound to live a terrifyingly brutal and potentially harmful life? I don't actually know if that was her intention but it certainly felt that way to me.
Please remember that this is my opinion of this book and that it should not sway your decision to read it. I do have another one of Paige's books on my to-be-read shelf so here's to hoping it's good! Remember to be respectful of others opinions!!
IF YOU ARE TRIGGERED BY RAPE, TORTURE, KIDNAPPING, PROSTITUTION, CHILD RAPE, DRUG USE, OR ANY OTHER EVILS THIS BOOK IS NOT FOR YOU!
I've had this book on my to-be-read shelf on Goodreads for a long time now. I've entered to win it through Goodreads giveaways every chance it becomes available and was even starting to consider purchasing it through Amazon, boy am I glad I was finally able to get it through my library!
While I understand the intention of this book was to shine light on some extremely difficult to discuss topics I felt a majority of it was unnecessarily vivid in description. I understand the concept of rape, believe me I understand that it is a disgusting act committed by truly messed up people. What I do not need however is an in depth detail of a seven year old having this happen to her by her uncle.
The story itself was fairly decent however the writing felt very simple. The descriptions all felt very similar with little to nothing changing except the occasional scenery and character names. Literally it felt like she just exchanged one rapist for another throughout. Then you get a glimpse of her living a happy normal life only to be thrown right back into hell. Through the whole book I kept thinking, was it the authors intention to just keep giving Alessa the short end of the stick or was she trying to say that anyone that gets raped from that young of an age is bound to live a terrifyingly brutal and potentially harmful life? I don't actually know if that was her intention but it certainly felt that way to me.
Please remember that this is my opinion of this book and that it should not sway your decision to read it. I do have another one of Paige's books on my to-be-read shelf so here's to hoping it's good! Remember to be respectful of others opinions!!
August 5, 2021
I have never in my life cried while reading a book. My heart goes out to Alessa, she went through so much and worked so hard to get out of a horror story, she made a good life for herself and did so much for the homeless community only for it to come crashing down again, all because of that scum bag pile of S#!* Harlin!! I am so furious! How dare he?! What right did any of the messed up people in her past have to do the things they did to her!?
I am so moved by this story that I can't stop thinking about it. This is definitely on the very top of my best books read list now. I can't wait to read more of Ms. Dearth's books but first, let me recover from this one. One word: WOW
I am so moved by this story that I can't stop thinking about it. This is definitely on the very top of my best books read list now. I can't wait to read more of Ms. Dearth's books but first, let me recover from this one. One word: WOW
December 16, 2020
Holy s**t!!!! If I could give this book 10 stars, I would! This book, much like the other book I have read by Paige Dearth, grabs you from deep inside and tugs at every emotion you could have. I felt horror. I felt sadness. I felt rage. I felt happiness. I felt devastation. I shed tears. If that doesn't deserve a 5 star rating, I don't know what does.
I think reading the blurbs about any of Paige's books will let the reader know there could be A LOT of triggers in all of her books. She holds nothing back and that is one thing I love about her writing.
I think reading the blurbs about any of Paige's books will let the reader know there could be A LOT of triggers in all of her books. She holds nothing back and that is one thing I love about her writing.
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