Margot McGovern

Not to be dramatic but living alone in an old house on some faraway island, studying greek and latin, translating ancient texts and throwing gatsby-esque parties where the halls fill with jazz music is exactly how I want to live my life.

In all seriousness though this was such a touching and relatable portrayal of childhood trauma, mental illness, and the strength in recovery. There were a couple things I didn't quite agree with (the ending seemed rather unrealistic, to let her leave after such a short recovery time and only 1 month without self harming, how unsupervised the kids seemed to be despite there being supposedly a lot of staff, the kids leaving once they turn 18 instead of once they are well enough) but I did love the portrayal of mental illness, how it discusses society's demonization of people with mental illness, and the strength in choosing a family who will love you. The prose and way the island was written was lyrical and atmospheric and how Kit's trauma played into her fantastical stories and romanticised view on her home was done well. It definitely struck a cord for me as someone struggling with recovering from childhood trauma myself.

Trigger warning for: abuse, suicide, self harm, PTSD… (meer)