I could really feel Andrea's anxiety, her pain, and then her hope. I have 2 young daughters but I feel like the themes in this book will help as they grow into young women

Every teenage girl should read this book. It details so well how the wrong kind of relationship can lead to controlling someone’s thoughts and actions and lead to fears that are UNIMAGINABLE! It details all the warning signs. A must read for young and impressionable teenage girls.

Forgiven Are the Starry-Eyed is thrilling and devastating. Painting the picture of a girl who suffers through an abusive and spiraling relationship, it hits close to home for so many women and girls. It's beautifully written and quick to read, but it'll take a lot longer to leave your mind. Even if you've never found yourself in Andrea's position, reading this book will leave you in a better place to be compassionate and perceptive to those quiet cries for help you may not have otherwise noticed. It's an important read.

‘In my mind, he was a tortured, brilliant artist, and I could be the one who helped him, who figured him out. So it became my mission.’ Forgiven Are the Starry-Eyed by Christine Dore Miller has a compelling synopsis and the story captured us immediately, what with its morose and emotional tone. The writing is superb and has an undercurrent of hopelessness and dejection. We are in awe that this is the first book by this debut Author, it was well written and touched on hard-hitting topics. “What happens between us in private stays private. Okay?” This Teen YA story deals with horrifically sensitive and extremely pertinent issues in today’s society. You’ve only got to turn on the news or scroll through social media to find stories like these on an almost regular basis. And those are only the ones we know or hear about or have been publicised. There’s still a dreadful silence and uncomfortable avoidance where topics of relationship abuse, violence, and sexual aggression are concerned. However, with the #metoo campaign, hopefully, awareness and support will be given, become a right and a deterrent. ‘I didn’t cry this time. And I was proud of that. Maybe I was getting better at this. Maybe he would be proud of me too.’ Forgiven Are the Starry-Eyed is not an easy read, however, it is an extremely important and a compelling read. The characters are well developed and relevant, their story an honest spotlight on what is sadly real –relationship- life for some, for many, for people we know and don’t know. It just takes that one person to notice, to care and not let go. ‘I smiled back at people who smiled at me, I answered questions when I was called on, but I otherwise just existed. I just took up space, floating through the halls, sitting in desks. And it was…easy, comfortable. And at this point, that felt like a win. Nobody got upset, nobody was worried, nobody was bothered. And that was a very welcome change.’ Whilst this is a fictional story it should be read by every young adult, parent or grandparent. Andrea could be a friend, a daughter or a granddaughter. Her life, in some parts or all, could be that of someone in your life. It is not impossible nor implausible. A healthy relationship is not a given. Sixteen year old, Andrea’s story is emotionally raw, tragic, yet beautiful in its strength and hope as she manoeuvres teenage life, wanting to be accepted and loved. Finding herself. Sometimes the skin within which we live can feel ‘too tight’ in the sense that our emotions, our worries, our pain feels overwhelming and we’re unable to release them. The path of ‘release’ someone choses to breathe, overcome and exist is what matters the most. Our heart broke for Andrea and the path on which she finds relief. However, it’s okay not to accept what you’re forced to live with, it’s okay to ask for help and it’s okay to say no, no more. I deserve better. I am worth more. ‘I told myself I had very few options now. I could just exist and accept that this was my life from now on. I’d be broken, but at least I’d be alive.’ We feel exhausted after Andrea’s journey and have to admit that whilst we felt like we could breathe at the end with some kind of comfort, we needed more. Perhaps an epilogue, just something. When you go through the ringer you need that extra bright light at the end. We’re so glad we picked this book up. What a read! “I feel like this isn’t real…”I said, closing my eyes tightly. “Open your eyes, beautiful,” he said, his hand stroking my cheek. “This is very, very real.”

This book should be mandatory reading, for teens, for adults and everyone in between - and I don't say that lightly. The story follows Andrea from the first time she meets Josh, through the duration of their relationship, and very importantly, beyond that. I've never read a book that so clearly and realistically shows how an abusive relationship becomes that, and also how messy and difficult it can be even after it's supposed to be over. When we read a story, we expect an ending that has a clear final event, and this book excels in keeping the story realistic and not doing that. There is much more to abuse than most stories would have us know and it's brilliant that this book exists to show the raw truth of it - from the fairly innocuous beginning to the bitter end. The writing is beautiful throughout, Miller definitely has a way with words, in the best possible way. The dialogue is well-written and realistic, as is the narration by Andrea. Her thoughts are well-explained and relatable throughout. Although it would be easy to paint Josh as a monster, and truly he is, there are some wonderful insights into his character that show it isn't necessarily as simple as that. Even as monstrous as he is though, there's a high chance everyone who reads this (and to re-iterate, that should be everyone) will recognise Josh as someone they know. Maybe he's your best friend's boyfriend that you just can't warn he off enough, a friend that you know doesn't treat their loved ones well, or maybe he's your ex-boyfriend and you managed to break free. This isn't an easy read. At times I felt like I could read it in one sitting, but I couldn't handle it. At times frustrating, anger-inducing, terrifying, upsetting, and always very real. There is always hope though, which is important. It has a perfect balance so that just when you think it's too dark, there is some light, somewhere.

Andrea is that teen who doesn’t get into trouble, is pretty much “wash and wear,” an uninvolved parent’s dream, the girl who gives no one any problems, therefore is overlooked by those who should be watching for “changes.” She was also ill-equipped to know where to turn, who to turn to and how to speak up for herself, she is a teen drowning in trouble. Christine Dore Miller’s FORGIVEN ARE THE STARRY-EYED will gut you, bring out your rage and hopefully open some eyes and hearts. Andrea is a victim of parents who are uninvolved, friends who betray her, peer pressure and her own emotional immaturity and insecurities and she fell for a predator and lost what little self-esteem she had. Josh is a mentally twisted predator and he uses his power over Andrea to quickly tear down her heart and ravage her soul, as well as her body. She gave him the power to control her, because she was never provided with the tools or the strength and support to say stop. This author has brilliantly told a tale of pain as seen through the eyes of Andrea, a sixteen-year-old girl. Readers will see that many details are left foggy, underdeveloped, but that Andrea stands in stark relief, after all, we are looking through Andrea’s eyes. Be prepared to be in uncomfortable, guilty disbelief. Be prepared to rage and to realize that the system, her family, all of us let her down. Posters do not work, billboards will not work, handouts piled on a desk will not work, people shaking their heads will not work…action works and if action or “getting involved” works for just one person, it is a start. But always start by looking at your own world and never be afraid to reach out to someone who may be screaming inside for help. And let's not forget about those who let Josh down, too. A must read for anyone who knows how to read. Share it, talk about it and make a difference. Thank you Christine Dore Miller for one of the most powerful reads I have ever seen. I was invited to read complimentary ARC edition from Evernight Teen! This is my honest review.

A deep and beautiful, if emotionally difficult, read. This topic isn’t discussed often, and it needs to be. Well-developed, believable characters depict how dating violence can sneak up on you, and how shame can overcome you over time. A riveting book.

Must read for teens, high school teachers, psychologists, counselors and coaches.

I loved the book. It was so well written and easy flowing. I look forward to her next book

Very well written- and probably a good read for teenage kids- both girls and boys! I did not grow with these problems, but I’m gathering this occurs often- again by both boys and also by girls! READ IT!

This book is so awesome and well written. I wish young adults would read this and know they are not alone and can get help with abusive relationships. Kudos to the author!

This novel is truly one that I could not put down until I read the very last word. In the first chapter, I was immediately swept up into the confused and shattered world of teen Andrea Cavanaugh, a high school student trapped in an abusive relationship. The danger of the situation unfolds to both Andrea and the reader, with the turn of each page - I felt as if I was experiencing every emotional high and low as she went through it all. This author should be commended for pulling no punches in tackling the very difficult yet critical subjects of dating violence and teen sexual abuse, The story is raw and emotional, but never unrealistic. All of the characters, both major and minor, are well fleshed-out and definitely relatable to persons of a similar age, as well as an older audience. The story itself is at times dark and devastating, but always captivating and entertaining. And, in the end, hopeful. I have a young son and daughter, and this is a book I will definitely give them to read when they are of age. For my daughter to know that when horrible things like this happen to a young woman, it is not their fault and they should not feel ashamed or afraid to seek help. And for my son to understand that there is absolutely no excuse whatsoever for a man to treat a woman like Andrea’s despicable boyfriend treated her. In our world today, a number of sexual predators in powerful roles are finally being exposed and prosecuted for what they’ve done. But far too many are still getting away with it. The education and awareness need to start with the youth because that’s when most of the abusing starts. This book should be in every high school library. It could be an extremely useful tool to help parents and teachers talk about the issues of dating violence and sexual abuse with their teenagers. Ms. Miller has a true gift for impactful storytelling, and I look forward to seeing more from her. Highly recommended for young adults and older readers alike.

As a retired English teacher, Christine’s brutal truth about abusive relationships needs to be read by parents and their junior and senior school students. It is a difficult read, but it is a topic that needs to be discussed, and parents need to know this really does happen.

Even though I was exhausted, I stayed up for hours reading Forgiven are the Starry-Eyed. I am now in my thirties, but the book transported me back to my vulnerable teenage years. I recommend this book for all, teenage and some of us that are a little older. It brings alive the emotional, physical and sexual abuse that young women face.

A heartbreaking, honest depiction of dating violence. The book gives teens, young adults, and adults a like the words, tools, and resources they can access when going through a relatable experience. Such a beautifully written, brave story. I couldnt put it down and finished it in one sitting!

I’ve just finished reading and I have tears forming for what I’ve just read, it’s a book so real and so relevant, written in such a way that left me riveted. I’ve lived Andrea’s life and I’m left speechless with the accuracy feelings are depicted and I’m hopeful for the awareness and hope this book can bring.

Loved this book. Really felt like it was super relatable and touches on issues that teens deal with and will feel understood when reading this. Characters were well developed and it was very easy to read. Recommend!

Andie is a sweet and under the radar kind of girl. She has a small group of friends that do everything together and she knows her place in the world. One day a new boy transfers to her school and changes everything. Josh and Andie start dating and it’s great for a couple months but then she starts to see some changes. It’ll take everything she has to fight this change and come out if it in one piece. Let me start off by saying that this book is not for the faint hearted and it is very heavy in nature. Saying that I have to commend the author for writing this book and sharing his story with the world. The attention to detail from the most minor thing, like the colour of a cardigan, to the most explosive scenes is impeccable. You really get a sense of who these people are and you are pulled along in their life stories. Andie is the girl you root for and wish the best for so it does break your heart to see her struggle through. Josh’s personality is infectious at first and the switch happens so seamlessly. The whole character grouping from the MCs to the “supporting staff” are filled out very well and you can imagine your own friends in their places. We are not given a clean ending that has the answers all wrapped up but it does provide an insight as well as hope. This book does have a lot of triggers; manipulation, self harm, abuse-both verbal and mental and rape. It’s not a light and fluffy read but it’s an important read! I implore anyone who has found themselves in this situation to reach out and talk to someone. Help can come to us in the most random of places so don’t give up. Again, well done to the author, Christine Doré Miller.

An emotional rollercoaster that pushes you to feel. Andie is a sweet and under the radar kind of girl. She has a small group of friends that do everything together and she knows her place in the world. One day a new boy transfers to her school and changes everything. Josh and Andie start dating and it’s great for a couple months but then she starts to see some changes. It’ll take everything she has to fight this change and come out if it in one piece. Let me start off by saying that this book is not for the faint hearted and it is very heavy in nature. Saying that I have to commend the author for writing this book and sharing this story with the world. When I was reading the book I had the feeling of it happening in front of me. The attention to detail from the most minor thing, like the colour of a cardigan, to the most explosive scenes is impeccable. It plays out for the reader so effortlessly that I have to credit the writing style for being so natural. You really get a sense of who these people are and you are pulled along in their life stories. Andie is the girl you root for and wish the best for so it does break your heart to see her struggle through. Josh’s personality is infectious at first and the switch happens so seamlessly. The whole character grouping from the MCs to the “supporting staff” are filled out very well and you can imagine your own friends in their places. We are not given a clean ending that has the answers all wrapped up but it does provide an insight as well as hope. Report this ad This book does have a lot of triggers; manipulation, self harm, abuse-both verbal and mental and rape. It’s not a light and fluffy read but it’s an important read! I implore anyone who has found themselves in this situation to reach out and talk to someone. Help can come to us in the most random of places so don’t give up. Again, well done to the author, Christine Doré Miller.