Question #2

[Lauren]

It is clear from the prologue that Irene Mast lay the blame for Becca’s abuse at Noah’s hands on her daughter. What did you think when reading this and what did you think of it at the end of the book?

[Charlene]

I wasn't sure that the parents clearly understood to what degree Noah had defiled his little sister, not was it clear to me how much the parents blamed the girl. Yet, as I say this, something had to set them off into the madness and bizarre belief system.

[Lauren]

It was clear to me that Becca's mother put the blame on her. According to Becca, Irene said she had sinned and should ask for forgiveness. This infuriated me! There are some things that should transcend religion and a mother's love and belief in her daughter should be one of those things.

There is nothing in the prologue about Perry Mast's knowledge of what happened, but it is apparent from Noah's punishment that both he and his wife were aware of Noah's abuse and culpability in Becca's suicide.

[Jonetta]

I was incensed at Irene Mast's reaction to Becca's revelation. I never questioned whether Perry Mast knew and am 100% certain he did. It was stated that they blamed Noah for her suicide and she had left a note. Two psychopaths raised a monster and made him even worse.

[Lauren]

There was obviously some underlying psychosis in this family that led them to lock Noah up instead of turning the matter over to the Amish church (I'm sure they would be the ones to deal with Noah rather than the civilian authorities).

Then, of course, there is the fact that Perry and Irene set out on their personal crusade of punishing "disobedient" Amish girls.

[Jonetta]

I guess there aren't any disobedient Amish boys:)

[Lauren]

I guess not - but then the Amish are a patriarchal society :0(