Rachel Thompson delves into some raw corners in Broken Places, but she also manages to dig up a lot of hope. The mixture of poetry, narrative and prose balance the book nicely, making it not quite memoir, not quite poetry book, and all perfectly balanced. There were some moments in this book that struck a cord deep inside, something only the best poetry can do. "Arousal feels like shame, so she must be broken (Rachel Thompson, Broken Places)." Anyone who has ever had to bear the burden of an abuse knows the power of this phrase. There are many more instances of beauty, desperation and anger in this book. It is literature that's honestly written, unashamed and refreshing. Thompson decides that taboo topics need light the most, and she shines her light on some dark places. There may be triggers for abuse survivors, but perhaps not. Instead, I found solace and comfort in a book that understands my pain and strength. I think others will, too.