Since her mother’s death four years before, Victoria Parker has been trying to fulfill her final wish that she take care of her father who isn’t strong enough to deal with losing her. Although he has always had a quick temper, Victoria’s memories of her childhood with him are mostly happy ones. However, his depression, drinking and remarriage to mean stepmom Tiffany have brought strange and uncomfortable changes to their relationship. The breaking point comes one night when Victoria finds herself locked out of her home at 3:00 a.m. She tries to convince herself and the social worker that it's just a misunderstanding, but her father’s lies land her in a crowded and uncomfortable foster home. Victoria has to follow the strict rules of the house imposed by the tyrannical Connie, finish her senior year at a new school while scrambling to find a way to afford the college her father will no longer pay for, and avoid forming new friendships that could expose all of her secrets. Unfortunately, a lie about attending a school dance leads to a night in juvie after Connie reports her as a runaway. Now she has to contend with being ostracized at school, fighting her growing feelings for Kale, dealing with nightmares that disrupt her sleep, and addressing the escalating worry she has for her stepsister Sarah who has been left behind with her father. Will she find the strength and support she needs to stop protecting her dad, expose his lies, and end the nightmare?
Barthelmess has drawn on her experience as a foster kid to write a YA novel that exposes the flaws in the foster care system and the damage parents can do to their children with their actions. The friendship Victoria has with Christina and her budding romance with Kale provide some much-needed lightness. The title is explained when Victoria recognizes that many people have secrets, even Kale. “No one can really see the quiet you carry, unless you let them.” This isn’t an easy story to read, but it’s one that needs to be told and discussed with teens. A worthy addition to any library serving teens, but beware that there are potential triggers for sexual abuse and suicide. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Flux through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
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