Book Review: But I Love Him by Amanda Grace

Summary: 

Sometimes at night, I wake up and stare at the heart for hours. I think of how I collected each piece from the beach, how I glued it all together into one big sculpture. I wonder if Connor realizes what it means, that he'll always have a piece of me no matter what happens. Each piece of glass is another piece of myself that I gave to him.

It's too bad I didn't keep any pieces for myself.

At the beginning of senior year, Ann was a smiling, straight-A student and track star with friends and a future. Then she met a haunted young man named Connor. Only she can heal his emotional scars; only he could make her feel so loved - and needed. Ann can't recall the pivotal moment it all changed, when she surrendered everything to be with him, but by graduation, her life has become a dangerous high wire act. Just one mistake could trigger Connor's rage, a senseless storm of cruel words and violence damaging everything - and everyone - in its path.

This evocative slideshow of flashbacks reveals a heartbreaking story of love gone terribly wrong.

Release Date: May 8, 2011

Age Group: New Adult

Source: Purchased

Review:

What a powerful book!  I started But I Love Him after reading Amanda Grace's latest book, The Truth About You and Me, and falling in love with her writing.  I adored both books, and will definitely be reading Amanda Grace's other novel, In Too Deep.  

But I Love Him gripped me from the very beginning, and didn't let go until I finished the book.  I tore through this book in one sitting, it was just that good for me.  I really felt for Ann.  At times I could not believe what was happening to her!  

I didn't think I would be a fan of a story told in reverse, but flashbacks were ideal for this subject, because it allowed me to be more objective about Ann's decision to stay in an abusive relationship.

I loved the ending and was really happy with Ann's decision.  I wish there would have been an epilogue, though, so I could know what happened with all of the characters.  My one complaint about But I Love Him was that the story felt repetitive at times.

But I Love Him is not an easy read, and it's definitely not a 'warm and fuzzy' read, but it's a book that should be read by all teens and their mothers.  It serves as a realistic portrayal of a dysfunctional, unhealthy relationship, and would be a great teaching tool  for teens who are just starting to date.  I recommend this book, and Amanda Grace!