By iamsandykay on October 26, 2021 ( Leave a comment )

Book Review – Things that H(a)unt Duology

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To Make Monsters Out of Girls
by Amanda Lovelace

Book Description:

“What happens when the man of your dreams turns out to be a nightmare with sharp teeth and claws?” Lovelace explores the memory of being in an abusive relationship. She poses the eternal question: Can you heal once you’ve been marked by a monster, or will the sun always sting?

My Take:

Cathartic in a rip-your-heart-out-and-make-you-say-Thank-you kind of way. Perfect.

This one was my favorite of the two.

I won’t say we all have, but haven’t most of us been in a relationship that seems like the thing while we’re in it and then one day you wake up, look around, and wonder “what the hell am I doing here?!?”

I for sure have.

Abuse comes in many, many forms. Physical, emotional, mental, and various blends of them all.

I recognized myself throughout the book.
Monster boy? Yep. Knew him and loved him.
Monster girl? Yep. Definitely have been her.
Sun heart? Luckily found them – and found the sun in myself.

Stars 5
Would I Recommend? Yes

To Drink Coffee with a Ghost
by Amanda Lovelace

Book Description:

“You cannot have a funeral for your mother without also having a funeral for yourself.” This book poses the ever-lingering question: What happens when someone dies before they’re able to redeem themselves? Lovelace unravels the memory of the complicated relationship she had with her now-deceased mother.

My Take:

Such a great tribute to a tumultuous relationship and facing the difficulty in missing someone and being glad they’re gone.

I really enjoyed this book, too, it just didn’t resonate with me a closely as To Make Monsters Out of Girls. Throughout the book I found myself wanting to scoop up the little girl, so clearly still hurting, and wrap her in a hug. This work makes me want to reach out to those I know are hurting or those who may be hurting and trying to cover it up.

Stars 4.5
Would I Recommend? Yes

The Final Verdict