This was a fast read, but that's about the best thing I can to say about, I'm afraid. It's certainly reminded me to take that line about someone being a 'USA Today Bestselling Author' with a grain of salt since, to be honest, I can't imagine reading this and running out to buy more of Hensley's work.

All told, I just take issue with the lack of depth. The first half of this felt like a straightforward presentation of tropes and stereotypes, and when the twist came, that was a pleasant surprise...but it also felt more like the author had been playing with the reader than anything since the POV she'd chosen should have shown her hand much earlier. I hate the feeling of an author playing games with a reader instead of allowing a story to unfold naturally, twists included, so that was a major point against the book for me. But even beyond that, the way Hensley stuck to the stereotypes of the characters and didn't really show us anything more than instalove made for a fairly dry book, and characters that were difficult to believe in as the book got further in. Emotions weren't given time to develop, and we'd go from anger to forgiveness after a few frantic pages of interior monologue. That's the other issue--all of the character development depended on nothing more than frantic inner monologue, beyond fully developed scenes and the progression of any real feelings or relationship.

I've got another book by Hensley already sitting on my shelf. I'm honestly not sure I'll read it, given that it's already there, but I won't be buying more of her books. ( )

Honestly, this book was WOW. I loved everything about it - the story, the writing, the characters. And if you need a sign to read it, let this be it!

Corrine is a young girl, getting tormented by a stalker. When her fear lands her in her school's principal's arms, she is forced to accept his help. And Mr D is more than willing to be a better human and assist his student. However, passion flares between them, and a real connection forms. But when her demons show, would the couple be able to get through them?

What I liked:

Every fucking thing. I loved the book. It was wonderful. The story was interesting; the characters were deep and the plot twist was mind-blowing.

Corrine - Bitch, this girl is totally crazy. And I have no idea how I ended up loving her. Wonderful female character, strong character development, really fascinating. I loved how her fear and paranoia were portrayed. I love everything about her (and this is a big compliment coming from me, who am critical of FMCs because they are usually dumb doormats).

And Mr D was absolutely lovely. I love how he wasn't some kind of creep and actually tried to keep things professional. But his kindness, support and care were heartwarming, and I couldn't get enough of them.

Their relationship was adorable, and I would've loved to read more about their interactions.

The plot twist was mind-blowing, and I certainly didn't expect it. And the end was top-level.


What I didn't like:

I have to say I am a bit disappointed with the lack of spice, but that's my only problem.

Overall:

Strongly, strongly recommend this book! But be aware nothing is as it looks.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. ( )