What do you think?
Rate this book
Bruised
Imogen has always believed that her black belt in Tae Kwon Do made her stronger than everyone else--more responsible, more capable. But when she witnesses a holdup in a diner, she freezes. The gunman is shot and killed by the police. And it's all her fault.
Now she's got to rebuild her life without the talent that made her special and the beliefs that made her strong. If only she could prove herself in a fight--a real fight--she might be able to let go of the guilt and shock. She's drawn to Ricky, another witness to the holdup, both romantically and because she believes he might be able to give her the fight she’s been waiting for.
But when it comes down to it, a fight won’t answer Imogen's big questions: What does it really mean to be stronger than other people? Is there such a thing as a fair fight? And can someone who's beaten and bruised fall in love?
Now she's got to rebuild her life without the talent that made her special and the beliefs that made her strong. If only she could prove herself in a fight--a real fight--she might be able to let go of the guilt and shock. She's drawn to Ricky, another witness to the holdup, both romantically and because she believes he might be able to give her the fight she’s been waiting for.
But when it comes down to it, a fight won’t answer Imogen's big questions: What does it really mean to be stronger than other people? Is there such a thing as a fair fight? And can someone who's beaten and bruised fall in love?
288 pages, Hardcover
First published March 5, 2013
18 people are currently reading
3490 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Skilton
8 books252 followersFEBRUARY 2022: SUMMER IN THE CITY, a three-book anthology co-authored with Priscilla Oliveras and Lori Wilde, is on sale for $1.99 digitally right now! My novella is "Mind Games," and it's a hate-to-love, second chance romance set during a magic show in NYC. Enjoy!
Out Now: HOLLYWOOD ENDING, a friends-to-lovers rom-com co-authored by Sarvenaz Tash under the pen name Tash Skilton
Out Now: GHOSTING: A LOVE STORY, a romantic comedy in the vein of Set it Up, You've Got Mail, and The Hating Game, co-authored by Sarvenaz Tash under the pen name Tash Skilton.
Latest solo release: FAME ADJACENT, a romantic comedy about the sole cast member of a 1990s song-and-dance show who didn't become famous.
Sarah is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, a fact that came in handy while writing her martial arts-themed debut YA novel, BRUISED (Amulet Books), which received a starred review from Publishers Weekly, and which the Horn Book called "nuanced and honest." Her second YA novel, HIGH AND DRY (Amulet Books), was called "A dark, well-constructed mystery with a strong voice" by Kirkus.
Her first mystery for adults was CLUB DECEPTION (Grand Central), about the magicians who belong to an exclusive underground magic club in Los Angeles, and the women who love, inspire, or control them.
Sarah and her husband, a magician, live in Southern California with their son. She's never been sawed in half, but there's still time. She loves to read coming-of-age novels, effed up memoirs, and edgy non-fiction. Find her on twitter: @Sarah_Skilton
Out Now: HOLLYWOOD ENDING, a friends-to-lovers rom-com co-authored by Sarvenaz Tash under the pen name Tash Skilton
Out Now: GHOSTING: A LOVE STORY, a romantic comedy in the vein of Set it Up, You've Got Mail, and The Hating Game, co-authored by Sarvenaz Tash under the pen name Tash Skilton.
Latest solo release: FAME ADJACENT, a romantic comedy about the sole cast member of a 1990s song-and-dance show who didn't become famous.
Sarah is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, a fact that came in handy while writing her martial arts-themed debut YA novel, BRUISED (Amulet Books), which received a starred review from Publishers Weekly, and which the Horn Book called "nuanced and honest." Her second YA novel, HIGH AND DRY (Amulet Books), was called "A dark, well-constructed mystery with a strong voice" by Kirkus.
Her first mystery for adults was CLUB DECEPTION (Grand Central), about the magicians who belong to an exclusive underground magic club in Los Angeles, and the women who love, inspire, or control them.
Sarah and her husband, a magician, live in Southern California with their son. She's never been sawed in half, but there's still time. She loves to read coming-of-age novels, effed up memoirs, and edgy non-fiction. Find her on twitter: @Sarah_Skilton
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
December 4, 2013
On The Nocturnal Library: Sarah Skilton talks about how she sees her main character, Imogen. Plus, there's a giveaway of a signed hardcover copy of BRUISED.
There’s only a handful of authors whose insightfulness I admire as much as I admire Sarah Skilton right now, most of them Australian. At first, my rating was 4.5 stars, but then I decided that such profound understanding of human psyche combined with really excellent writing deserves more. So I gave it a five, which is something I rarely do. And I don’t regret it.
Control and power are such interesting things. We all crave them, some more, some less, and none of us like to feel helpless or weak. But feeling powerful and in control can be a double-edged sword. That wonderful feeling easily turns into something horrible the second someone stronger comes along. We all want to believe that we can defend ourselves, that nothing big can harm us. Those things happen to other people, right?
But what if you spend years preparing for exactly one such event? Countless hours of training to protect not just yourself, but those who are weaker, powerless? And what if, when the time comes, you fail? I doubt an adult would be able to handle that very well. A sixteen-year-old girl? She’s likely to get angry, violent and depressed, and not in neat little stages, but all at once. She’s likely to crack.
Imogen spent six years living and breathing Tae Kwan Do. She followed all the rules, inside and outside the dojang. She trained hard, ate healthy and studied a lot for her average grades. She was confident that she could face any situation, confront any bully, fend off any attack, all thanks to her rigorous training. What she didn’t count on was a gun.
This story about Imogen’s struggle with guilt, depression, and the need to prove to everyone that she IS capable of defending herself, is one of the most heartbreaking things I’ve ever read. Skilton’s approach is brutally honest and realistic, and she’s not in the business of creating heroes. Imogen wasn’t always the easiest character to like, but even when she was being unfair or judgmental, I could feel the hurt pouring off her, and I desperately wanted to protect her even though she doesn’t need anyone’s protection.
The most wonderful thing about Bruised are its layers. As the story progresses, more of Imogen’s family issues are revealed, and we see it’s not just the event in the diner she struggles with, but also problems that were there before. She’s angry at her father for ignoring his diabetes and ending up in a wheelchair, she’s upset with her older brother for outshining her in everything, but most of all, she resents her mother for not accepting her for who she is.
There is no magic wand Imogen can wave to make her problems disappear. Depression and anger aren’t things one can just decide to recover from overnight. Bruised isn’t some miraculous story about self discovery. It’s about a girl forced to question everything she stands for and maybe become a better person in the process.
If you’re a contemporary fan, Bruised is an absolute must-read. If you’re not… well, neither am I, but the best things in life come from unexpected directions. I know not everyone will love this book as much as I did, but it will definitely leave an impression. It’s not one you’ll easily forget.
There’s only a handful of authors whose insightfulness I admire as much as I admire Sarah Skilton right now, most of them Australian. At first, my rating was 4.5 stars, but then I decided that such profound understanding of human psyche combined with really excellent writing deserves more. So I gave it a five, which is something I rarely do. And I don’t regret it.
Control and power are such interesting things. We all crave them, some more, some less, and none of us like to feel helpless or weak. But feeling powerful and in control can be a double-edged sword. That wonderful feeling easily turns into something horrible the second someone stronger comes along. We all want to believe that we can defend ourselves, that nothing big can harm us. Those things happen to other people, right?
But what if you spend years preparing for exactly one such event? Countless hours of training to protect not just yourself, but those who are weaker, powerless? And what if, when the time comes, you fail? I doubt an adult would be able to handle that very well. A sixteen-year-old girl? She’s likely to get angry, violent and depressed, and not in neat little stages, but all at once. She’s likely to crack.
Imogen spent six years living and breathing Tae Kwan Do. She followed all the rules, inside and outside the dojang. She trained hard, ate healthy and studied a lot for her average grades. She was confident that she could face any situation, confront any bully, fend off any attack, all thanks to her rigorous training. What she didn’t count on was a gun.
This story about Imogen’s struggle with guilt, depression, and the need to prove to everyone that she IS capable of defending herself, is one of the most heartbreaking things I’ve ever read. Skilton’s approach is brutally honest and realistic, and she’s not in the business of creating heroes. Imogen wasn’t always the easiest character to like, but even when she was being unfair or judgmental, I could feel the hurt pouring off her, and I desperately wanted to protect her even though she doesn’t need anyone’s protection.
The most wonderful thing about Bruised are its layers. As the story progresses, more of Imogen’s family issues are revealed, and we see it’s not just the event in the diner she struggles with, but also problems that were there before. She’s angry at her father for ignoring his diabetes and ending up in a wheelchair, she’s upset with her older brother for outshining her in everything, but most of all, she resents her mother for not accepting her for who she is.
There is no magic wand Imogen can wave to make her problems disappear. Depression and anger aren’t things one can just decide to recover from overnight. Bruised isn’t some miraculous story about self discovery. It’s about a girl forced to question everything she stands for and maybe become a better person in the process.
If you’re a contemporary fan, Bruised is an absolute must-read. If you’re not… well, neither am I, but the best things in life come from unexpected directions. I know not everyone will love this book as much as I did, but it will definitely leave an impression. It’s not one you’ll easily forget.
March 21, 2013
Hm, I feel alone in a sea of glowing 4s and 5s on this one.
This is such an interesting subject, and there were times when Imogene's PTSD flashbacks were definitely troubling. But I had a serious problem connecting with most of the characters, and I was never really convinced by most of the main story arcs.
A story that engaged my interest for the short while it took to read it, but one that ultimately left my heart...unbruised.
This is such an interesting subject, and there were times when Imogene's PTSD flashbacks were definitely troubling. But I had a serious problem connecting with most of the characters, and I was never really convinced by most of the main story arcs.
A story that engaged my interest for the short while it took to read it, but one that ultimately left my heart...unbruised.
May 8, 2013
“If a girl punches someone, she’s crazy. If a guy punches someone, he’s dealing with his feelings. He’s normal.”
I have to thank several friends for recommending Skilton’s debut recently; without their encouragement to pick it up, Bruised might have been quietly sucked into the black hole of my growing TBR list.
Bruised is an insightful novel about a girl’s journey to redefine her sense of self in the wake of a traumatic incident. While suffering PTSD as a result of a diner hold-up, Imogen is compelled to confront what she believed to be fundamental truths about herself. Considering herself responsible for the gunman’s death, Imogen struggles to reconcile the reality of the event with her own expectations of herself.
In some ways, Bruised reminded me of Elizabeth Scott’s Miracle, in its thought-provoking take on PTSD and the way it impacts self-perception. By failing to act when she believes she should have, Imogen’s sense of worth is undermined. The construct of herself as an empowered, disciplined and strong young woman is challenged by the fact that she froze under pressure, which drives a desperate need to prove herself. Under the weight of what she perceives as a failure, Imogen begins to pursue an increasingly self-destructive path in an effort to redeem herself. She wants a real fight, a chance to do-over the moment her mind, body and training betrayed her.
Skilton’s characterisation of Imogen and the depiction of her internal conflict is effective: its sharp and visceral, and Imogen’s disillusionment is believable. Imogen passes through a broad emotional spectrum, and this progression is developed organically. Skilton is unafraid to push Imogen into some dark places emotionally, essentially stripping her back to a state of mental vulnerability and raw instinct, before allowing her to slowly reconstruct her life.
This reconstruction is not only within Imogen, it’s also necessary in her core relationships: with her parents, her brother, her friends, and with Tae Kwon Do. Then there’s the boy who was also at the diner the night of the hold-up, the one person Imogen feels is able to relate to what she’s going through, and the burgeoning attraction between them.
I felt the most successfully handled relationship development was that within Imogen’s family. She is emotionally distant from both parents for different reasons, and sees her brother as responsible for her estrangement from her former best friend. Skilton tackles each of these dynamics realistically, and I enjoyed the manner in which they progressed and their issues were addressed, particularly between Imogen and Hunter. Their sibling bond felt genuine, yet believably complicated.
Most of all though, hats off to the author for allowing her teenage girl main character to respond to conflict in such a physical way. Imogen spends a considerable portion of the novel looking for an opportunity to test her ability to fight, a rematch of sorts. This quest leads her to make some poor choices (understandable in her situation), and also to try to get Ricky (her co-witness of the hold-up) to fight her. Imogen’s insistence on having someone engage in an no-holds-barred physical fight with her is not something commonly seen in YA, but Skilton navigates it well, addressing not only Imogen’s need, but Ricky’s reluctance to hit a girl, or be beaten by one.
If this novel lost me a little, it was in the way some of the plot threads/conflicts were resolved. While I enjoyed the openness of the ending, and the place where the author left Imogen, I felt a couple of the closing scenes were a bit twee in their delivery, and not necessary to communicate that the characters were in a positive space.
That said, the novel is tight and engaging. Although flawed, Imogen is a sympathetic protagonist with a compelling struggle. The romance and friendship subplots complement the story, while keeping Imogen’s internal journey front and centre. She develops as a character, yet there’s integrity to the way she is written; Imogen grows, but her core beliefs and strengths are not transformed, just adjusted. I appreciated Skilton’s dedication to Imogen in this way – allowing Imogen to keep those fundamental elements of her personality and principles. This is especially evident in the way the novel handles various attitudes towards sex. Skilton presents the characters’ perspectives without judgement or commentary – respecting the diversity of their experiences and choices.
Bruised is an accomplished debut novel about navigating physical and psychological trauma, and the challenging of self-worth. It’s a respectful and knowledgeable portrayal of martial arts, relationships and the journey of a teenage girl to redefine her inner world.
I have to thank several friends for recommending Skilton’s debut recently; without their encouragement to pick it up, Bruised might have been quietly sucked into the black hole of my growing TBR list.
Bruised is an insightful novel about a girl’s journey to redefine her sense of self in the wake of a traumatic incident. While suffering PTSD as a result of a diner hold-up, Imogen is compelled to confront what she believed to be fundamental truths about herself. Considering herself responsible for the gunman’s death, Imogen struggles to reconcile the reality of the event with her own expectations of herself.
In some ways, Bruised reminded me of Elizabeth Scott’s Miracle, in its thought-provoking take on PTSD and the way it impacts self-perception. By failing to act when she believes she should have, Imogen’s sense of worth is undermined. The construct of herself as an empowered, disciplined and strong young woman is challenged by the fact that she froze under pressure, which drives a desperate need to prove herself. Under the weight of what she perceives as a failure, Imogen begins to pursue an increasingly self-destructive path in an effort to redeem herself. She wants a real fight, a chance to do-over the moment her mind, body and training betrayed her.
Skilton’s characterisation of Imogen and the depiction of her internal conflict is effective: its sharp and visceral, and Imogen’s disillusionment is believable. Imogen passes through a broad emotional spectrum, and this progression is developed organically. Skilton is unafraid to push Imogen into some dark places emotionally, essentially stripping her back to a state of mental vulnerability and raw instinct, before allowing her to slowly reconstruct her life.
This reconstruction is not only within Imogen, it’s also necessary in her core relationships: with her parents, her brother, her friends, and with Tae Kwon Do. Then there’s the boy who was also at the diner the night of the hold-up, the one person Imogen feels is able to relate to what she’s going through, and the burgeoning attraction between them.
I felt the most successfully handled relationship development was that within Imogen’s family. She is emotionally distant from both parents for different reasons, and sees her brother as responsible for her estrangement from her former best friend. Skilton tackles each of these dynamics realistically, and I enjoyed the manner in which they progressed and their issues were addressed, particularly between Imogen and Hunter. Their sibling bond felt genuine, yet believably complicated.
Most of all though, hats off to the author for allowing her teenage girl main character to respond to conflict in such a physical way. Imogen spends a considerable portion of the novel looking for an opportunity to test her ability to fight, a rematch of sorts. This quest leads her to make some poor choices (understandable in her situation), and also to try to get Ricky (her co-witness of the hold-up) to fight her. Imogen’s insistence on having someone engage in an no-holds-barred physical fight with her is not something commonly seen in YA, but Skilton navigates it well, addressing not only Imogen’s need, but Ricky’s reluctance to hit a girl, or be beaten by one.
If this novel lost me a little, it was in the way some of the plot threads/conflicts were resolved. While I enjoyed the openness of the ending, and the place where the author left Imogen, I felt a couple of the closing scenes were a bit twee in their delivery, and not necessary to communicate that the characters were in a positive space.
That said, the novel is tight and engaging. Although flawed, Imogen is a sympathetic protagonist with a compelling struggle. The romance and friendship subplots complement the story, while keeping Imogen’s internal journey front and centre. She develops as a character, yet there’s integrity to the way she is written; Imogen grows, but her core beliefs and strengths are not transformed, just adjusted. I appreciated Skilton’s dedication to Imogen in this way – allowing Imogen to keep those fundamental elements of her personality and principles. This is especially evident in the way the novel handles various attitudes towards sex. Skilton presents the characters’ perspectives without judgement or commentary – respecting the diversity of their experiences and choices.
Bruised is an accomplished debut novel about navigating physical and psychological trauma, and the challenging of self-worth. It’s a respectful and knowledgeable portrayal of martial arts, relationships and the journey of a teenage girl to redefine her inner world.
April 6, 2013
4.5 Stars
Although I have no experience with martial arts, it is very much a part of my life. You can hardly walk in my house without seeing remnants of my brother's neatly broken boards, sparring gear, or the dozens of belts he went through to finally receive his black belt. As his older sister, though, I've seen more than just the physical evidence of his years spent on tae kwon do; I've seen the non-tangible evidence too. I've witnessed my brother transform from a shy, timid, and vulnerable child into a confident, encouraged, and courageous boy.
While I've never felt the urge to join martial arts myself, we all have something in our lives that provides stability or gives us control; that makes us feel as if we're doing something worthwhile with our lives. Very rarely, though, does that modicum of support in our life evaporate or break apart. When it does, the downhill spiral of our lives is seemingly inevitable. In fact, it's nearly impossible for me to imagine...or was until I picked up this utterly remarkable debut.
When Imogen, a tae kwon do black belt, is caught sitting in a restaurant as a gunman bursts in, she immediately crouches under her table, doing nothing to help save the gunman who is eventually cornered and killed. Now, after the event, Imogen is a mere shell of herself, closed off from the world and drowning in guilt. Ricky, the teenage boy also caught in the restaurant with Imogen during the shooting, seems to be the only person who understands Imogen and the PTSD she faces, but even his support isn't enough. It is up to Imogen to come to terms with who she is, especially without a black belt - a cloak of security - to define her.
First and foremost, I must mention that Sarah Skilton writes like a well-seasoned author, making it hard to believe this is her debut. I still have lingering doubts as to whether she has written other books under a different name because, frankly, to tackle this type of a subject with so much success and have it only be her debut is an incredible feat. And how beautifully she pulls together the story of Imogen's collapse and eventual understanding. It is achingly realistic and utterly pulls you in until every deep feeling of Imogen's is recreated in your gut too.
As a character, Imogen is brimming with flaws - which is possibly why I love her so. Not only is she inherently lost, but even before the incident, she was quick to judge and shut people out of her life, whether it be her father who is confined to his wheelchair or her older brother who she sees as nothing but a player. Now, depressed and bogged down with resentment, all Imogen feels is the need to prove herself again. Bruised takes it upon itself to carve out the heart-breaking journey Imogen must take to find herself, her control, and her passion all over again. It isn't as easy as simply coming to terms with her fright in the restaurant, it's also about dealing with her conflicted emotions towards tae kwon do. Is martial arts really a way of protecting yourself or is it only a method of fighting in a controlled environment, not real life? As Imogen struggles with these thoughts, we find our hearts going out to her, slowly but steadily, until it becomes impossible not to fully love her - with every one of her blatant faults.
Furthermore, what truly proves Skilton's talent is her ability to weave in layers of Imogen's life side-by-side with her PTSD. We witness the very real dilemmas Imogen faces at home with her family and in school with her friends. Although her relationship with Ricky is tender and sweet, it has its ups-and-downs too and Imogen's life, like all of ours, decides to throw everything at her at once, making her journey all the more realistic and poignant. Truly, Skilton makes you feel as if you are Imogen, flesh and bone, to the extent that this novel nearly steals your breath away from you during certain scenes. It is simply such a raw punch to your gut at times, its brutal honesty and beautiful resolution, that I am rendered speechless just thinking about it.
Bruised is not a perfect novel, but its flaws are minimal. Although it is realistic in every aspect that counts, the overnight-resolutions when it came to Imogen's issues with her family, and particularly her father who she feels is no longer a pillar of strength because he is now in a wheelchair, were a little too conveniently placed towards the end. Additionally, I found myself wanting more when it came to Ricky's separate manifestation of PTSD that was so different from Imogen's. While these are minor reservations that kept me from rewarding this with a full 5 Stars, they don't change the fact that Bruised is an utterly compelling debut. Sarah Skilton has earned not only a fan, but a stalker for I assure you, I will be eagerly waiting to see when her next book is due. And there will be a next book. If not, I will personally petition for one. Until then, though, do yourself a favor and read this. Bruised is one release this year you really do not want to miss out on.
Although I have no experience with martial arts, it is very much a part of my life. You can hardly walk in my house without seeing remnants of my brother's neatly broken boards, sparring gear, or the dozens of belts he went through to finally receive his black belt. As his older sister, though, I've seen more than just the physical evidence of his years spent on tae kwon do; I've seen the non-tangible evidence too. I've witnessed my brother transform from a shy, timid, and vulnerable child into a confident, encouraged, and courageous boy.
While I've never felt the urge to join martial arts myself, we all have something in our lives that provides stability or gives us control; that makes us feel as if we're doing something worthwhile with our lives. Very rarely, though, does that modicum of support in our life evaporate or break apart. When it does, the downhill spiral of our lives is seemingly inevitable. In fact, it's nearly impossible for me to imagine...or was until I picked up this utterly remarkable debut.
When Imogen, a tae kwon do black belt, is caught sitting in a restaurant as a gunman bursts in, she immediately crouches under her table, doing nothing to help save the gunman who is eventually cornered and killed. Now, after the event, Imogen is a mere shell of herself, closed off from the world and drowning in guilt. Ricky, the teenage boy also caught in the restaurant with Imogen during the shooting, seems to be the only person who understands Imogen and the PTSD she faces, but even his support isn't enough. It is up to Imogen to come to terms with who she is, especially without a black belt - a cloak of security - to define her.
First and foremost, I must mention that Sarah Skilton writes like a well-seasoned author, making it hard to believe this is her debut. I still have lingering doubts as to whether she has written other books under a different name because, frankly, to tackle this type of a subject with so much success and have it only be her debut is an incredible feat. And how beautifully she pulls together the story of Imogen's collapse and eventual understanding. It is achingly realistic and utterly pulls you in until every deep feeling of Imogen's is recreated in your gut too.
As a character, Imogen is brimming with flaws - which is possibly why I love her so. Not only is she inherently lost, but even before the incident, she was quick to judge and shut people out of her life, whether it be her father who is confined to his wheelchair or her older brother who she sees as nothing but a player. Now, depressed and bogged down with resentment, all Imogen feels is the need to prove herself again. Bruised takes it upon itself to carve out the heart-breaking journey Imogen must take to find herself, her control, and her passion all over again. It isn't as easy as simply coming to terms with her fright in the restaurant, it's also about dealing with her conflicted emotions towards tae kwon do. Is martial arts really a way of protecting yourself or is it only a method of fighting in a controlled environment, not real life? As Imogen struggles with these thoughts, we find our hearts going out to her, slowly but steadily, until it becomes impossible not to fully love her - with every one of her blatant faults.
Furthermore, what truly proves Skilton's talent is her ability to weave in layers of Imogen's life side-by-side with her PTSD. We witness the very real dilemmas Imogen faces at home with her family and in school with her friends. Although her relationship with Ricky is tender and sweet, it has its ups-and-downs too and Imogen's life, like all of ours, decides to throw everything at her at once, making her journey all the more realistic and poignant. Truly, Skilton makes you feel as if you are Imogen, flesh and bone, to the extent that this novel nearly steals your breath away from you during certain scenes. It is simply such a raw punch to your gut at times, its brutal honesty and beautiful resolution, that I am rendered speechless just thinking about it.
Bruised is not a perfect novel, but its flaws are minimal. Although it is realistic in every aspect that counts, the overnight-resolutions when it came to Imogen's issues with her family, and particularly her father who she feels is no longer a pillar of strength because he is now in a wheelchair, were a little too conveniently placed towards the end. Additionally, I found myself wanting more when it came to Ricky's separate manifestation of PTSD that was so different from Imogen's. While these are minor reservations that kept me from rewarding this with a full 5 Stars, they don't change the fact that Bruised is an utterly compelling debut. Sarah Skilton has earned not only a fan, but a stalker for I assure you, I will be eagerly waiting to see when her next book is due. And there will be a next book. If not, I will personally petition for one. Until then, though, do yourself a favor and read this. Bruised is one release this year you really do not want to miss out on.
March 16, 2013
A very thorough, in depth excursion into PTSD and how it affects your everyday life and the lives of the people who are around you.
This book was like watching a train wreck slowly unfold in front of my eyes. Imogen is 16 and a Tae Kwon Do black belt, practically a prodigy. When she ends up getting involved in a diner shooting and the gunman gets slaughtered by the police, she blames herself for not being able to intervene and salvage the situation with her martial art's skills.
From there on, her life becomes a downward spiral; she starts having nightmares, failing classes, she mangles a guy's face for futile reasons, tries desperately to get in a fight, any fight to prove to herself that she's not helpless.
This is not the type of book I can catalogue as enjoyable for me. Its worth is undeniable: well written, well plotted, well characterized.
We stare at each other in the wall mirrors, and all our images on down to infinity stare at each other, too. I keep thinking one pair of them might be brave and break away from the rest; maybe one of the Imogens, just one of the hundreds, will turn around and kiss one the Rickys. I picture the rest of us looking on jealously. If only one pair of us does it, it won't count, it won't have to change anything, it won't risk what we have - our closeness. One version of us could kiss, and the rest of us could still be safe.
Some passages were incredibly insightful, vivid, so almost lyrical, they rendered Imogen's pain so raw and palpable. That certainly takes some skills.
It was downright painful for me watching Imogen losing control of her life, of her psyche and her body, seeing her so helpless and out of control, unable to cope and so full of angst.
I haven't experienced - thankfully - PTSD disorder but I can relate to the feeling of pushing away everybody who's around you and who's trying to help you because they're doing it in the wrong way. When you're so completely out of control people don't really know what to do with you, and it makes it all the more sad if those people are your family.
The part of the book that didn't sit well with me was Imogen's family: there's a - slightly oblivious- mother who has a degree magna cum laude in art history and works as a concierge in a hotel (the reason of this, we never find out, even if Imogen asks herself that question). We have a father who's been diagnosed with diabetes, is on a wheelchair and who also seems to be too on the way to self-destruction. It was clear to me that a good part of Imogen's problems derived from a situation a long time in the making, and were not imputable only to the shooting. That's why I didn't buy the dad's sudden redemption after the umpteenth of Imogen's antics nor the mother sudden wake up call. It takes more than that to solve that kind of problems.
Furthermore, I really would have liked to see a bit more of Ricky's character as I just got the image of a big teddy bear out of his parts in the book.
All in all, a very emotional read about coping, accepting one's limits and, as in all coming of age's stories worth their salt, finding one's identity.
This book was like watching a train wreck slowly unfold in front of my eyes. Imogen is 16 and a Tae Kwon Do black belt, practically a prodigy. When she ends up getting involved in a diner shooting and the gunman gets slaughtered by the police, she blames herself for not being able to intervene and salvage the situation with her martial art's skills.
From there on, her life becomes a downward spiral; she starts having nightmares, failing classes, she mangles a guy's face for futile reasons, tries desperately to get in a fight, any fight to prove to herself that she's not helpless.
This is not the type of book I can catalogue as enjoyable for me. Its worth is undeniable: well written, well plotted, well characterized.
We stare at each other in the wall mirrors, and all our images on down to infinity stare at each other, too. I keep thinking one pair of them might be brave and break away from the rest; maybe one of the Imogens, just one of the hundreds, will turn around and kiss one the Rickys. I picture the rest of us looking on jealously. If only one pair of us does it, it won't count, it won't have to change anything, it won't risk what we have - our closeness. One version of us could kiss, and the rest of us could still be safe.
Some passages were incredibly insightful, vivid, so almost lyrical, they rendered Imogen's pain so raw and palpable. That certainly takes some skills.
It was downright painful for me watching Imogen losing control of her life, of her psyche and her body, seeing her so helpless and out of control, unable to cope and so full of angst.
I haven't experienced - thankfully - PTSD disorder but I can relate to the feeling of pushing away everybody who's around you and who's trying to help you because they're doing it in the wrong way. When you're so completely out of control people don't really know what to do with you, and it makes it all the more sad if those people are your family.
The part of the book that didn't sit well with me was Imogen's family: there's a - slightly oblivious- mother who has a degree magna cum laude in art history and works as a concierge in a hotel (the reason of this, we never find out, even if Imogen asks herself that question). We have a father who's been diagnosed with diabetes, is on a wheelchair and who also seems to be too on the way to self-destruction. It was clear to me that a good part of Imogen's problems derived from a situation a long time in the making, and were not imputable only to the shooting. That's why I didn't buy the dad's sudden redemption after the umpteenth of Imogen's antics nor the mother sudden wake up call. It takes more than that to solve that kind of problems.
Furthermore, I really would have liked to see a bit more of Ricky's character as I just got the image of a big teddy bear out of his parts in the book.
All in all, a very emotional read about coping, accepting one's limits and, as in all coming of age's stories worth their salt, finding one's identity.
April 16, 2017
This was the #BookBuddyBox for April which is run over on Etsy by elena. Check out her shop here. It's a contemporary book, with is not my usual cup of tea as I tend to find it hard to connect with the characters, but I do think this story was pretty good at handling elements of PTSD and family issues and that made this more interesting than the average contemporary.
In this story we follow Imogen, a 16-year old Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do who is top of her class and a dedicated student. Imogen begins the story in a diner late one night when a gunman comes in to steal from the cash register. Imogen finds herself hiding under one of the table, terrified, but after the incident is finally over she doesn't know quite how to go back to 'normal'.
What I did like about this book was the way that the PTSD was handled in Imogen. I felt as though many of her actions were classic and tragic signs of PTSD, and after what she went through it was thoroughly convincing to me that she would 'act out' as she did.
The element I liked less was the family dynamic as I felt like there was a lack of care and compassion in her family and I feel as though after something so dramatic and horrible, a real family would support her more. The mother and father in this book often felt pretty redundant to me, and I wanted to see more of them taking control and trying. I definitely feel as though this was an irritating element of the book for me as it just felt like a plot-hole.
Overall it was a super quick read with some good elements that were made a lot better with the additional post-it notes and treasures added in by Elena. I don't think this is ever a book I would have chosen for myself, but I enjoyed the quick reading experience and I do think some parts surprised me. 3*s overall.
In this story we follow Imogen, a 16-year old Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do who is top of her class and a dedicated student. Imogen begins the story in a diner late one night when a gunman comes in to steal from the cash register. Imogen finds herself hiding under one of the table, terrified, but after the incident is finally over she doesn't know quite how to go back to 'normal'.
What I did like about this book was the way that the PTSD was handled in Imogen. I felt as though many of her actions were classic and tragic signs of PTSD, and after what she went through it was thoroughly convincing to me that she would 'act out' as she did.
The element I liked less was the family dynamic as I felt like there was a lack of care and compassion in her family and I feel as though after something so dramatic and horrible, a real family would support her more. The mother and father in this book often felt pretty redundant to me, and I wanted to see more of them taking control and trying. I definitely feel as though this was an irritating element of the book for me as it just felt like a plot-hole.
Overall it was a super quick read with some good elements that were made a lot better with the additional post-it notes and treasures added in by Elena. I don't think this is ever a book I would have chosen for myself, but I enjoyed the quick reading experience and I do think some parts surprised me. 3*s overall.
March 26, 2013
Bruised is story of a girl (Tae Kwon Do talent) who survives a hold-up, but not without emotional scars and torment. The opening chapter is so compelling, the PTSD that comes afterwards rings true. For a dramatic premise, the book never delves into the melodramatic, I think this is one of it's strengths.
The writing is strong and sure.
I really wish I had connected more to Imogen. As much as I admired what the author was doing with her themes, without this character connection I only felt a passing interest to everything that was going on (and sometimes I felt there was a lot going on - lots of little side plots). I also found the secondary characters a little flat and couldn't feel any chemistry with the love interest (it happens). That said, I did like Imogen's brother and the layers in their relationship.
Despite being disengaged, I can see the appeal and praise. It's a solid debut with an interesting topic (Tae Kwon Do and PTSD) and if the blurb speaks to you at all, you should check it out for yourself.
The writing is strong and sure.
I really wish I had connected more to Imogen. As much as I admired what the author was doing with her themes, without this character connection I only felt a passing interest to everything that was going on (and sometimes I felt there was a lot going on - lots of little side plots). I also found the secondary characters a little flat and couldn't feel any chemistry with the love interest (it happens). That said, I did like Imogen's brother and the layers in their relationship.
Despite being disengaged, I can see the appeal and praise. It's a solid debut with an interesting topic (Tae Kwon Do and PTSD) and if the blurb speaks to you at all, you should check it out for yourself.
February 25, 2016
I was expecting a lot from Bruised, debut novel of author Sarah Skilton, and it really delivered. It is a rare book that can so deftly convey the turbulent emotions that can arise following a traumatic event but Bruised really packs a punch and isn't afraid to delve into what damage can be done to a person's psyche in the aftermath of tragedy.
Bruised tells the story of Imogen, a sixteen year old girl who is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Imogen is in a diner one night when a lone gunman holds it up. Things escalate and the gunman ends up dead, shot down by the local police. The book follows the immediate aftermath of this event. Imogen has immense feelings of guilt but at first you are not really sure why as she has blanked on most of what happened that night, fragments of her memories only coming back to her when she is forced to confront them. The only clear memory she has of that night is of the boy who was there in the diner when everything happened. The one who she locked eyes with; who helped her remain in control when events were unfolding. Imogen doesn't even know his name and didn't get a chance to find out as they were separated by the police following the shooting.
Imogen falls into a deep depression, which is only compounded by her family who want to help but are powerless to do so. You soon find out that Imogen's home life has been somewhat strained and she finds it hard to reach out and seek comfort from those closest to her. Her father's health is not good and he is now in a wheelchair. She has never been overly close with her mother and she has a fractious relationship with her older brother Hunter who has been in her back books recently after he ruined her friendship with her best friend Shelly. Her other friends she was never as close to so Imogen feels she has no one to confide in. It is only when she crosses paths again with the boy from the diner, Ricky - who is also suffering from the events of that night, that Imogen starts to feel alive again but her grief and guilt do not let up and she could end up even pushing him away.
This was an extremely moving story and I feel it really captured how Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can affect people and make them react in ways they never would before. Imogen lived and breathed Tae Kwon Do and was confident in her abilities to protect herself and to diffuse difficult situations. All of her training did little to prepare her for coming up against a situation like the one she found herself in and Imogen is not only traumatised that she witnessed the gunman's death, she felt powerless to stop what was going on. She failed to handle it and it is this which most affects her. Years of hard training and discipline falls apart when Imogen is forced to confront what she views as her short-comings (though an adult would have been hard-pressed to deal with what happened let alone a sixteen year old). What happens when your worldview is completely shifted and you are powerless to do anything about it?
Bruised tackles this subject about what loss of power and control can to do a person and does it in a sensitive and realistic manner. Imogen has always felt that she was capable of taking care of herself and others who are unable to help themselves but when she is faced with the fact that people can (and often will) freeze in the face of real danger she has to cope with this loss of belief in herself and become stronger in the process. This takes a lot of time and even by the end of the book Imogen is not miraculously healed but she is on her way to becoming whole again. She has also become closer to her family and friends again and has fallen for Ricky, who was there for her even when she was trying her best to push him away.
Overall an adept and moving story, not afraid to delve into the darkness but essentially a story of hope and overcoming adversities. Imogen is truly taken to a dark place, given the circumstances I think anyone would start to crack, but she is on the path to healing herself by the end with help from her loved ones. I really liked her family and the rest of the supporting characters were rounded and had distinct personalities. Imogen and Ricky were great leads and I was really rooting for them to overcome their shared experience and get together properly.
Four stars ****
Bruised tells the story of Imogen, a sixteen year old girl who is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Imogen is in a diner one night when a lone gunman holds it up. Things escalate and the gunman ends up dead, shot down by the local police. The book follows the immediate aftermath of this event. Imogen has immense feelings of guilt but at first you are not really sure why as she has blanked on most of what happened that night, fragments of her memories only coming back to her when she is forced to confront them. The only clear memory she has of that night is of the boy who was there in the diner when everything happened. The one who she locked eyes with; who helped her remain in control when events were unfolding. Imogen doesn't even know his name and didn't get a chance to find out as they were separated by the police following the shooting.
Imogen falls into a deep depression, which is only compounded by her family who want to help but are powerless to do so. You soon find out that Imogen's home life has been somewhat strained and she finds it hard to reach out and seek comfort from those closest to her. Her father's health is not good and he is now in a wheelchair. She has never been overly close with her mother and she has a fractious relationship with her older brother Hunter who has been in her back books recently after he ruined her friendship with her best friend Shelly. Her other friends she was never as close to so Imogen feels she has no one to confide in. It is only when she crosses paths again with the boy from the diner, Ricky - who is also suffering from the events of that night, that Imogen starts to feel alive again but her grief and guilt do not let up and she could end up even pushing him away.
This was an extremely moving story and I feel it really captured how Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can affect people and make them react in ways they never would before. Imogen lived and breathed Tae Kwon Do and was confident in her abilities to protect herself and to diffuse difficult situations. All of her training did little to prepare her for coming up against a situation like the one she found herself in and Imogen is not only traumatised that she witnessed the gunman's death, she felt powerless to stop what was going on. She failed to handle it and it is this which most affects her. Years of hard training and discipline falls apart when Imogen is forced to confront what she views as her short-comings (though an adult would have been hard-pressed to deal with what happened let alone a sixteen year old). What happens when your worldview is completely shifted and you are powerless to do anything about it?
Bruised tackles this subject about what loss of power and control can to do a person and does it in a sensitive and realistic manner. Imogen has always felt that she was capable of taking care of herself and others who are unable to help themselves but when she is faced with the fact that people can (and often will) freeze in the face of real danger she has to cope with this loss of belief in herself and become stronger in the process. This takes a lot of time and even by the end of the book Imogen is not miraculously healed but she is on her way to becoming whole again. She has also become closer to her family and friends again and has fallen for Ricky, who was there for her even when she was trying her best to push him away.
Overall an adept and moving story, not afraid to delve into the darkness but essentially a story of hope and overcoming adversities. Imogen is truly taken to a dark place, given the circumstances I think anyone would start to crack, but she is on the path to healing herself by the end with help from her loved ones. I really liked her family and the rest of the supporting characters were rounded and had distinct personalities. Imogen and Ricky were great leads and I was really rooting for them to overcome their shared experience and get together properly.
Four stars ****
November 29, 2012
The kind of book that keeps you up late at night and lingers long after you've turned the last page. Imogen's struggle in the aftermath of trauma is brutal in a raw, beautiful way. I loved everything about it.
(I blurbed this book. That's what I said.)
(I blurbed this book. That's what I said.)
December 4, 2013
When I first found out about Bruised by Sarah Skilton, it didn't catch my attention very much, at all. It was only when I saw rave reviews for this book by some of my most trusted blogger friends (ehem, Keertana and Maja) that I knew I had to read it. And thank goodness for their accurate opinions on this book, because after finishing Bruised, I've come to the conclusion that this book is a new favorite for 2013. Honestly, if you look at my status updates on Goodreads for this book, pretty much every single one says, "I love this book. SO MUCH." Because in all seriousness, Bruised is a traumatizing story about a girl who witnesses the shooting of a gunman-- and blames it on herself for not preventing it. A gritty yet heartwarming contemporary, Bruised hit me in all the right places.
Firstly, I just need to mention that this book reminded me a lot of Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson. Why? It's similar in the ways of a girl who endures a traumatizing experience in which she needs to go through the healing process by forcing herself to remember. But there is that difference between these two books; what made me love Bruised so much more was the addition of Tae Kwan Do. It makes it infinitely more fascinating to read about. Not only does our main character Imogen struggle to recover from the witness of the shooting, she also comes to terms with her Tae Kwan Do training, and it plays a huge part in the story. First of all, I've never read a book that's remotely related to martial arts, and second, Skilton makes it sound freaking bad-ass. This unique sport that's been weaved into the story kept me on my toes for sure.
Another quality of this book that I fell in love with was Imogen, and the strong character development. Imogen's voice is darkly humorous and sarcastic-- and she's not very likable at first. But it's the little things that go through her mind that I learned to love and empathize with. Her bravery, courage, and her acceptance towards other people is just amazing. She grows as a character, too, and it's like watching a new door open, ready for possibilities. Aside from Imogen herself though, we have Imogen's family, who play a huge role in the story. Hunter, the man-whore of a brother was hilarious, but also deeply caring. The way that Imogen's issues affect Hunter and his reactions are completely realistic. Imogen's family and Imogen herself are endearing characters that I learned to admire by the end of the book.
And of course, there's the romance. Oh goodness. Can we just take a moment to applaud Skilton's skills to write a completely.. Beautifully violent romance? Ricky Alvarez, the love interest, happens to also be an eye-witness of the shooting that Imogen was at, and their bonding over the experience is intense and intricate at the same time. And by violent romance, I mean that Imogen constantly wants to fight someone because of the event she had to witness (this will make more sense once you read it, I promise!), and it's really memorable, to say the least. But Ricky's understanding nature and tender feelings were just. I can't-- I FELT ALL THE FEELS. That is all.
My final message to you all: pick up this book. I'M BEGGING YOU. Bruised is without a doubt, a page-turner with strands of emotion, love, growth, and acceptance braided throughout the pages. I couldn't have asked for a better-written debut from Sarah Skilton, and I am glad to say that this surprising story that touched my heart will surely touch yours as well.
5 teacups for BRUISED!
THIS REVIEW WAS ORIGINALLY POSTED ON A Reading Daydreamer:
http://a-reading-daydreamer.blogspot....
For more of my reviews, check out the blog:
Firstly, I just need to mention that this book reminded me a lot of Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson. Why? It's similar in the ways of a girl who endures a traumatizing experience in which she needs to go through the healing process by forcing herself to remember. But there is that difference between these two books; what made me love Bruised so much more was the addition of Tae Kwan Do. It makes it infinitely more fascinating to read about. Not only does our main character Imogen struggle to recover from the witness of the shooting, she also comes to terms with her Tae Kwan Do training, and it plays a huge part in the story. First of all, I've never read a book that's remotely related to martial arts, and second, Skilton makes it sound freaking bad-ass. This unique sport that's been weaved into the story kept me on my toes for sure.
Another quality of this book that I fell in love with was Imogen, and the strong character development. Imogen's voice is darkly humorous and sarcastic-- and she's not very likable at first. But it's the little things that go through her mind that I learned to love and empathize with. Her bravery, courage, and her acceptance towards other people is just amazing. She grows as a character, too, and it's like watching a new door open, ready for possibilities. Aside from Imogen herself though, we have Imogen's family, who play a huge role in the story. Hunter, the man-whore of a brother was hilarious, but also deeply caring. The way that Imogen's issues affect Hunter and his reactions are completely realistic. Imogen's family and Imogen herself are endearing characters that I learned to admire by the end of the book.
And of course, there's the romance. Oh goodness. Can we just take a moment to applaud Skilton's skills to write a completely.. Beautifully violent romance? Ricky Alvarez, the love interest, happens to also be an eye-witness of the shooting that Imogen was at, and their bonding over the experience is intense and intricate at the same time. And by violent romance, I mean that Imogen constantly wants to fight someone because of the event she had to witness (this will make more sense once you read it, I promise!), and it's really memorable, to say the least. But Ricky's understanding nature and tender feelings were just. I can't-- I FELT ALL THE FEELS. That is all.
My final message to you all: pick up this book. I'M BEGGING YOU. Bruised is without a doubt, a page-turner with strands of emotion, love, growth, and acceptance braided throughout the pages. I couldn't have asked for a better-written debut from Sarah Skilton, and I am glad to say that this surprising story that touched my heart will surely touch yours as well.
5 teacups for BRUISED!
THIS REVIEW WAS ORIGINALLY POSTED ON A Reading Daydreamer:
http://a-reading-daydreamer.blogspot....
For more of my reviews, check out the blog:
May 12, 2013
3.5
I wish I could give this a better rating but the fact is that Bruised did not impact me like I thought it would.
It’s a good book and I liked it but I feel it could have been better. Bruised could have been a deeper, darker exploration of PTSD had it stayed focused on the main Tae Kwon Do aspect of it, but it kept derailing into needless drama that I did not care about.
I found Imogen very unlikeable. Her attitude towards her parents especially bothered me. While I appreciate the complexity of her characterization, I could not connect with Imogen at all so her supposed trauma did not feel all that traumatizing to me.
Here's something I don't understand - why is Imogen so convinced that Ricky, and only Ricky, can understand what she's going through?? I get that she's upset because she didn't use her training to prevent what happened but why the certainty that a random guy hiding under another table would understand her agony better than her parents?? It would have made more sense had she known Ricky before the hold-up or had he been a trained fighter like Imogen herself but since that's not the case, her so-called connection with Ricky felt grossly underwhelming.
Coming to the good parts, I loved the writing. It was unusually seasoned for a debut.
I also loved the subtle touch of feminism concerning girls and fighting.
The Tae Kwon Do aspect was the best part of the book. Imogen's passion for martial arts and her loss of self-belief following the diner incident came through brilliantly well. I personally thought the ending was great and the part where Imogen realizes how arrogant she'd once been was a nice touch - made me like her a bit.
Overall, a very promising debut. I just wish Skilton had concentrated more on the central theme and not on the many sub-plots.
I wish I could give this a better rating but the fact is that Bruised did not impact me like I thought it would.
It’s a good book and I liked it but I feel it could have been better. Bruised could have been a deeper, darker exploration of PTSD had it stayed focused on the main Tae Kwon Do aspect of it, but it kept derailing into needless drama that I did not care about.
I found Imogen very unlikeable. Her attitude towards her parents especially bothered me. While I appreciate the complexity of her characterization, I could not connect with Imogen at all so her supposed trauma did not feel all that traumatizing to me.
Here's something I don't understand - why is Imogen so convinced that Ricky, and only Ricky, can understand what she's going through?? I get that she's upset because she didn't use her training to prevent what happened but why the certainty that a random guy hiding under another table would understand her agony better than her parents?? It would have made more sense had she known Ricky before the hold-up or had he been a trained fighter like Imogen herself but since that's not the case, her so-called connection with Ricky felt grossly underwhelming.
Coming to the good parts, I loved the writing. It was unusually seasoned for a debut.
"If my brain’s the arena, my thoughts are the rabid caged dogs in the wings, whipped into a fury. As long as I don’t acknowledge them, I can keep them at bay until I go to bed, at which point they show up as nightmares and tear themselves apart."
I also loved the subtle touch of feminism concerning girls and fighting.
"The only way female fighters could possibly interest anyone is if there’s a chance they’ll rip each other’s clothes off. Nobody will just let us fight."
"If a girl punches someone, she’s crazy. If a guy punches someone, he’s dealing with his feelings. He’s normal."
The Tae Kwon Do aspect was the best part of the book. Imogen's passion for martial arts and her loss of self-belief following the diner incident came through brilliantly well. I personally thought the ending was great and the part where Imogen realizes how arrogant she'd once been was a nice touch - made me like her a bit.
Overall, a very promising debut. I just wish Skilton had concentrated more on the central theme and not on the many sub-plots.
May 28, 2018
Well... at least this was given to me for free....
April 3, 2013
BRUISED is not exactly a coming of age story; it’s one of knowing what you can and cannot do and then dealing with consequences of things unexpected. In this one it’s Imogen, struggling to get over what she’s witnessed and at the same time having those around her struggle along with to make things right for her. Contrast all the emotional turmoil she’s living with to the uneasy state she’s in with her friends, and family and things went from worse, then worse again before any of the better came out.
A lot of what’s in this is not easy: her losing faith and failing to see purpose in what had previously defined her has her pushing others away then breaking down (in all aspects) yet still wanting/needing to prove that she could do something … And her break down (because it is that) was raw and clear but obviously hard to get through.
Then add on her family and the things not dealt with there, and things got even more difficult. Though I wanted an easy fix for her, what we got here is better. We see ALL aspects of her life shift toward the negative maybe because of the shooting but maybe also because of other events that had come before it. Then consider her issues with her father and an unsaid anger over how he is, along with brother and her loudly declared resentment over who he is and what he could do, as well as her uneasy almost absent connection with her mother. But what they do because of what she’s gone through is only a small part of everything else… because this family, this girl? ISSUES.
Take all that and we have girl on a self destruct because she’s unable to cope and lost certainty on who she is what she could do.
A lot of what’s in this is not easy: her losing faith and failing to see purpose in what had previously defined her has her pushing others away then breaking down (in all aspects) yet still wanting/needing to prove that she could do something … And her break down (because it is that) was raw and clear but obviously hard to get through.
Then add on her family and the things not dealt with there, and things got even more difficult. Though I wanted an easy fix for her, what we got here is better. We see ALL aspects of her life shift toward the negative maybe because of the shooting but maybe also because of other events that had come before it. Then consider her issues with her father and an unsaid anger over how he is, along with brother and her loudly declared resentment over who he is and what he could do, as well as her uneasy almost absent connection with her mother. But what they do because of what she’s gone through is only a small part of everything else… because this family, this girl? ISSUES.
Take all that and we have girl on a self destruct because she’s unable to cope and lost certainty on who she is what she could do.
July 31, 2016
This book and I, we had the classic "it's not you, it's me" situation. 'Coz I for one have no freaking interest in martial arts and Imogen, the MC, is ― wait for it ― a black belt in Tae Kwon Do! And the fact that all the relationships in this book felt horribly, horribly forced didn't help matters.
Anyway, the good news is that I survived and learnt how to punch a guy twice my size. *high fives Imogen*
Anyway, the good news is that I survived and learnt how to punch a guy twice my size. *high fives Imogen*
December 4, 2013
Sarah Skilton and I are friends and share the same editor at Amulet Books, so I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of BRUISED...and I couldn't put it down. Skilton digs deep into the raw emotions of her damaged protagonist, Imogen, and, like an expert taekwondo player, allows her plot to make unexpected moves that will have you scrambling to turn the pages. There's an especially beautiful metaphor for Imogen's heart that I loved, and the relationships built, broken, and restored throughout the book moved me to tears. After finishing the novel, I found myself thinking of Imogen whenever I watched news stories involving gun violence, which is a testament to BRUISED's ability to stay with you.
Even if you know nothing about taekwondo (like me) and don't normally pick up books involving martial arts, make sure you don't miss this powerful, impossible-to-forget story of pain, love, and forgiveness.
Even if you know nothing about taekwondo (like me) and don't normally pick up books involving martial arts, make sure you don't miss this powerful, impossible-to-forget story of pain, love, and forgiveness.
June 22, 2011
I loved this book!
October 30, 2016
Originally posted at http://shelversanon.blogspot.com
Blast the trumpets! Throw the confetti! For I, Shelver, diehard fantasy/sci-fi addict and perpetually distrustful reader of contemporary, have found a contemporary book that she loves. And not just any contemporary book. An issue book!
Attribution
Bruised opens immediately after Imogen's world shatters. A woman is in the hospital, a man is dead, and Imogen is covered head to toe in his blood, "sticking to me like chunks of blackberry jam." To be held at gunpoint and then splattered with pieces of another person would be traumatizing for anyone, but it's worse for Imogen.
Imogen is a first degree black belt, a six-year student of Tae Kwan Do, and the youngest recipient of a black belt in her school. Never mind that the assailant had had a gun. She should have done something - knocked the gun from his hand, kicked out his legs, SOMETHING. Instead, she froze.
To Imogen, Tae Kwan Do is not a skill, it is a way of life. It failed her when she needed it most. In turn, she feels like she has failed everyone else. Her parents, the people in the diner, the gunman, her students, her brother, she failed them all. Most of all, she failed herself.
Ms. Skilton touches on some heavy subjects in this book. After the incident at the diner, Imogen goes into a tailspin, at first subtly and then bombastically. Like a chain of dominoes, Imogen's doubts and fears knock into other carefully concealed issues until her entire life is lying in shambles about her feet. Some of the issues explored in this book include:
Responsibility
Honor
Women and fighting
Family dynamics and sibling loyalty
Protecting, being protected, and who should do what
Sexuality/kissing
Health/diabetes
Pride in one's skills vs. arrogance/bullying
Normally, a list like that would make my skin crawl. It looks too deep, too heavy, too involved. With that in mind, trust me when I say that Ms. Skilton did a superb job. Though Bruised is hardly a funny book, Ms. Skilton balances Imogen's darker moments with lighter scenes involving friends and the cute boy from the diner, Ricky. I never felt like I was drowning in woes.
That's not to say there weren't some deep emotional moments. There were. Imogen hits some pretty epic lows in the course of the story. There were even a few points where I found myself getting misty. But amid all the gloom, two very important aspects kept my afloat.
First, the characters. What fantastic characters! Each character comes with his or her own set of hangups, but each is well-rounded and delightful. Imogen is fiery, self-disciplined, smart, but not too perfect. I loved that Ms. Skilton made sure she isn't the typical straight-A student that plagues the YA scene. However, she is a fanatic Tae Kwan Do student, and she teaches a class of students herself. Amid her personal turmoil, Imogen's passion for teaching helps balance out the gloomier aspects of her personality.
Ms. Skilton is also adept in her handling of the other characters. Each experiences personal growth and change, even if it's only in the way Imogen perceives him or her. For instance, Imogen's family initially seems like the typical dysfunctional YA bunch. Her mother hovers and worries, but often seems clueless of what's really going on in Imogen's life. Her father eats himself into an early grave and is often emotionally unavailable to Imogen. And Imo's older brother Hunter is the reigning playboy of her high school. Charismatic and selfish, he has systematically slept with nearly all of Imo's friends, including her ex-very best friend Shelley! However, by the end of the book, I as a reader understood each member of Imogen's family so much better. (Those two parts where I got a little misty? They both involved Hunter.)
The second aspect that helped me enjoy Bruised was Ms. Skilton's writing. Goodness, can that woman write. She lured me in from the beginning and kept me coming back for more. Me! The contemporary-averse reviewer! Her little descriptions made me so happy. At one point, Imogen describes the marching band going down her street:
A very simple sentence but it does its job. The brass and percussion enter, they play, they leave, but anyone who has ever heard a marching band knows exactly what she means when she talks about the "rat-a-tachycardia" playing.
And the voices! In my opinion, Ms. Skilton completely nails everyone's voice. Imogen, for the most part, sounds like the solid, mature, sixteen-year-old that she is. (Though sometimes I mistook her more for 17 or 18.) The parents are perfect in their worry, Ricky sounds like the Marine-bound Hispanic bundle of awesomeness that he is, and even Ricky's mom and gramma sound flawlessly authentic to my ears.
Included in the writing is the way Ms. Skilton handles Bruised's ending. As Bruised itself is never completely dark nor completely cheerful, I appreciate that the ending is neither too feel-good nor too depressing. Not everything is resolved. Sick characters are not magically healed. Wayward characters are not magically transformed. Lost friends are not magically returned. But there is hope. Each character, in their own way (except the dead gunman), is given a chance for a better tomorrow, and it is left up to them whether they choose to take it.
It fits in a very poetic way. As Ricky reminds Imogen, being bruised isn't so bad, because bruising means you're alive. And bruises heal.
Points Added For: Characterization, fantastic writing, not coming down too hard on either side for any of the presented issues, a pitch-perfect ending.
Points Subtracted For: I didn't think Hunter had to be quite so loose to make the point, and I thought the online video was a bit much.
Good For Fans Of: Really awesome contemporary books, issue books that aren't too heavy, spot-on writing, a protagonist with feminist views that are neither too abrasive nor too extreme (she's no pansy, but there's also no bra-burning).
Notes For Parents: Language, kissing, brief sex, drinking, death, homosexuality.
Blast the trumpets! Throw the confetti! For I, Shelver, diehard fantasy/sci-fi addict and perpetually distrustful reader of contemporary, have found a contemporary book that she loves. And not just any contemporary book. An issue book!
Attribution
Bruised opens immediately after Imogen's world shatters. A woman is in the hospital, a man is dead, and Imogen is covered head to toe in his blood, "sticking to me like chunks of blackberry jam." To be held at gunpoint and then splattered with pieces of another person would be traumatizing for anyone, but it's worse for Imogen.
Imogen is a first degree black belt, a six-year student of Tae Kwan Do, and the youngest recipient of a black belt in her school. Never mind that the assailant had had a gun. She should have done something - knocked the gun from his hand, kicked out his legs, SOMETHING. Instead, she froze.
To Imogen, Tae Kwan Do is not a skill, it is a way of life. It failed her when she needed it most. In turn, she feels like she has failed everyone else. Her parents, the people in the diner, the gunman, her students, her brother, she failed them all. Most of all, she failed herself.
Ms. Skilton touches on some heavy subjects in this book. After the incident at the diner, Imogen goes into a tailspin, at first subtly and then bombastically. Like a chain of dominoes, Imogen's doubts and fears knock into other carefully concealed issues until her entire life is lying in shambles about her feet. Some of the issues explored in this book include:
Responsibility
Honor
Women and fighting
Family dynamics and sibling loyalty
Protecting, being protected, and who should do what
Sexuality/kissing
Health/diabetes
Pride in one's skills vs. arrogance/bullying
Normally, a list like that would make my skin crawl. It looks too deep, too heavy, too involved. With that in mind, trust me when I say that Ms. Skilton did a superb job. Though Bruised is hardly a funny book, Ms. Skilton balances Imogen's darker moments with lighter scenes involving friends and the cute boy from the diner, Ricky. I never felt like I was drowning in woes.
That's not to say there weren't some deep emotional moments. There were. Imogen hits some pretty epic lows in the course of the story. There were even a few points where I found myself getting misty. But amid all the gloom, two very important aspects kept my afloat.
First, the characters. What fantastic characters! Each character comes with his or her own set of hangups, but each is well-rounded and delightful. Imogen is fiery, self-disciplined, smart, but not too perfect. I loved that Ms. Skilton made sure she isn't the typical straight-A student that plagues the YA scene. However, she is a fanatic Tae Kwan Do student, and she teaches a class of students herself. Amid her personal turmoil, Imogen's passion for teaching helps balance out the gloomier aspects of her personality.
Ms. Skilton is also adept in her handling of the other characters. Each experiences personal growth and change, even if it's only in the way Imogen perceives him or her. For instance, Imogen's family initially seems like the typical dysfunctional YA bunch. Her mother hovers and worries, but often seems clueless of what's really going on in Imogen's life. Her father eats himself into an early grave and is often emotionally unavailable to Imogen. And Imo's older brother Hunter is the reigning playboy of her high school. Charismatic and selfish, he has systematically slept with nearly all of Imo's friends, including her ex-very best friend Shelley! However, by the end of the book, I as a reader understood each member of Imogen's family so much better. (Those two parts where I got a little misty? They both involved Hunter.)
The second aspect that helped me enjoy Bruised was Ms. Skilton's writing. Goodness, can that woman write. She lured me in from the beginning and kept me coming back for more. Me! The contemporary-averse reviewer! Her little descriptions made me so happy. At one point, Imogen describes the marching band going down her street:
The brass section and drums take over for a second, a fast, erratic, rat-a-tachycardia, and the band moves into the distance until it disappears completely.
A very simple sentence but it does its job. The brass and percussion enter, they play, they leave, but anyone who has ever heard a marching band knows exactly what she means when she talks about the "rat-a-tachycardia" playing.
And the voices! In my opinion, Ms. Skilton completely nails everyone's voice. Imogen, for the most part, sounds like the solid, mature, sixteen-year-old that she is. (Though sometimes I mistook her more for 17 or 18.) The parents are perfect in their worry, Ricky sounds like the Marine-bound Hispanic bundle of awesomeness that he is, and even Ricky's mom and gramma sound flawlessly authentic to my ears.
Included in the writing is the way Ms. Skilton handles Bruised's ending. As Bruised itself is never completely dark nor completely cheerful, I appreciate that the ending is neither too feel-good nor too depressing. Not everything is resolved. Sick characters are not magically healed. Wayward characters are not magically transformed. Lost friends are not magically returned. But there is hope. Each character, in their own way (except the dead gunman), is given a chance for a better tomorrow, and it is left up to them whether they choose to take it.
It fits in a very poetic way. As Ricky reminds Imogen, being bruised isn't so bad, because bruising means you're alive. And bruises heal.
Points Added For: Characterization, fantastic writing, not coming down too hard on either side for any of the presented issues, a pitch-perfect ending.
Points Subtracted For: I didn't think Hunter had to be quite so loose to make the point, and I thought the online video was a bit much.
Good For Fans Of: Really awesome contemporary books, issue books that aren't too heavy, spot-on writing, a protagonist with feminist views that are neither too abrasive nor too extreme (she's no pansy, but there's also no bra-burning).
Notes For Parents: Language, kissing, brief sex, drinking, death, homosexuality.
April 17, 2017
I got this book through the April 2017 #BookBuddyBox run by the ever cheery Elena.
This is not the kind of book I would normally pick up. I read the blurb and thought, “Hmm, probably not for me”. I was wrong (shh, don’t tell anyone I said that, it rarely happens!). I read the first page out of curiosity and then somehow it was three hours later and 3am and I was still reading and I should have been asleep!
Imogen is a 16yr old black belt in Tae Kwon Do. She is present in a diner when an armed gunman attempts robbery (he ends up being shot by the police). During the event she hides under a table. Afterwards, she starts to struggle with the guilt of not using her martial arts skills and hiding under a table instead. Hiding under the table is something I think most of us could imagine ourselves doing in a similar situation. The story is told from Imogen’s perspective on her battle with PTSD and the aftermath of such a terrible event.
This book deals with PTSD really well! Imogen’s struggle with the guilt of being a survivor and her self-destructive behaviours are spot on.
You don’t need to have a huge knowledge or even interest in martial arts to enjoy this book. My martial arts interest barely stretches out of watching UFC once or twice a month. Although Tae Kwon Do is part of the story, it isn’t the main focus – so it’s easy to overlook it a little if it doesn’t interest you. There is a romance aspect that is a little more difficult to overlook, but I expect there to be romance in YA books. I’ve got quite good at pretending to be interested!
Although dealing with a very heavy subject, the story is actually a really easy read. I am a really slow reader, but I finished this in about half the time it would normally take me. It’s funny in parts, light-hearted in others with unexpected things coming out of nowhere that take you by surprise. I have to say this: I really don’t like Hunter – Imogen’s popular, confident and rather selfish older brother. Even though he does try to do the right thing after the event, I still couldn’t like him. I mean, who likes popular, confident people eh?! *gives the stink eye to hunter* I mean, peace and love to all.
Overall, I’m very glad I read this. A good emotional, interesting and heart-warming story.
”What the hell are you doing, Daryl?”
“Just empty the register! Shut up.”
This is not the kind of book I would normally pick up. I read the blurb and thought, “Hmm, probably not for me”. I was wrong (shh, don’t tell anyone I said that, it rarely happens!). I read the first page out of curiosity and then somehow it was three hours later and 3am and I was still reading and I should have been asleep!
Imogen is a 16yr old black belt in Tae Kwon Do. She is present in a diner when an armed gunman attempts robbery (he ends up being shot by the police). During the event she hides under a table. Afterwards, she starts to struggle with the guilt of not using her martial arts skills and hiding under a table instead. Hiding under the table is something I think most of us could imagine ourselves doing in a similar situation. The story is told from Imogen’s perspective on her battle with PTSD and the aftermath of such a terrible event.
I haven’t cried about the diner I have no feelings I’m not human Mom keeps telling me to have a good cry but something in me got turned off like a switch and now other people can tell I’m not normal, I’m heartless.
This book deals with PTSD really well! Imogen’s struggle with the guilt of being a survivor and her self-destructive behaviours are spot on.
Low to the ground is comforting; standing up is bad.
You don’t need to have a huge knowledge or even interest in martial arts to enjoy this book. My martial arts interest barely stretches out of watching UFC once or twice a month. Although Tae Kwon Do is part of the story, it isn’t the main focus – so it’s easy to overlook it a little if it doesn’t interest you. There is a romance aspect that is a little more difficult to overlook, but I expect there to be romance in YA books. I’ve got quite good at pretending to be interested!
Although dealing with a very heavy subject, the story is actually a really easy read. I am a really slow reader, but I finished this in about half the time it would normally take me. It’s funny in parts, light-hearted in others with unexpected things coming out of nowhere that take you by surprise. I have to say this: I really don’t like Hunter – Imogen’s popular, confident and rather selfish older brother. Even though he does try to do the right thing after the event, I still couldn’t like him. I mean, who likes popular, confident people eh?! *gives the stink eye to hunter* I mean, peace and love to all.
Overall, I’m very glad I read this. A good emotional, interesting and heart-warming story.
May 30, 2020
This coming of age book follows Imogen after a shooting, as a black belt in Tae Kwon Do she is taught to protect citizens but when the shooting occurred she couldn’t save herself or others, and she blames herself. Now she feels as if her black belt is worth nothing because she couldn’t do anything to stop it. As the shooting occurred her and Ricky were both hidden under the tables and have developed a bond through that. As all coming of age books it covers family, friendship and relationship issues. However I believe the main topics this book covers very well is trauma, guilt and forgiveness. The authors writing being almost poetic and heartbreaking this was a very emotional read which i would highly recommend.
December 4, 2013
Sometimes a book comes along at just the right time and resonates in just the right way. Bruised was that book for me. It could be that I needed a break from all the paranormal stories I’ve been reading, and I have to admit it was a nice change of pace to read a contemporary novel. But no matter what your usual reading fare is, Bruised is sure to trigger some type of emotion, because it’s so well written and perfectly paced. I absolutely loved the character of Imogen; I found her to be one of the most real and natural teenage protagonists I’ve come across in quite some time. Her story is unique, but I’m betting many readers will empathize with her situation nonetheless.
Imogen is a sixteen-year-old with a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. The past six years of her life have been dedicated to immersing herself in martial arts and adhering to the rules set forth by Grandmaster Huan, her teacher. But one night as she and a friend are about to leave a diner, a man with a gun tries to rob the place. Instead of using her martial arts skills to stop the holdup, Imogen hides under a table. From her spot on the ground, she sees a boy across the way, also hiding. The next thing she knows, she’s at the police station, covered in blood. No matter how hard she tries, she can’t remember the events of the shooting. But even worse, she blames herself for the gunman’s death, for not being able to use her fighting skills when it really mattered.
One day at school she is called in to see the school counselor, and she meets the mysterious boy from the diner, a boy named Ricky who sets her heart fluttering. Ricky and Imogen attend counseling sessions together to overcome the stress of the shooting, getting to know each other better in the process. The rest of the story involves Imogen’s slow emergence from self-blame to accepting the things in life she can’t control.
This book isn’t really about the plot. I pretty much gave you a wrap up of the story in the last two paragraphs. So why did I love it so much? I loved it because this is a story about relationships and how they can hurt us, help us, and define us. Even before the shooting, Imogen is having problems with many of the people in her life. Her girlfriends are dropping her because they are interested in dating her older brother, Hunter. Her brother is stealing her friends by sleeping with them. And her father is in a wheelchair after being diagnosed with diabetes. Everything is changing, and Imogen is having trouble dealing. Everything except Tae Kwon Do, the one thing in her life that feels steady and comforting. But after the shooting, she realizes that even her well-honed fighting skills have failed her, and she doesn’t know how to come back from the shock of the experience.
There’s a line in the book about building up your muscles, and that the only way to make them stronger is to tear them down first. Skilton uses this as a metaphor as Imogen comes to grips with the tragedy and what her life means now that she’s questioning everything she believes in. Her emotional turmoil is written in such a believable way, and her interactions with Ricky, her family and her friends seem honest and true to life. Poor Imogen is going through a lot, and it’s no wonder she nearly has a mental breakdown. In addition to the drama surrounding the shooting, she’s also dealing with normal teenage stuff: her first kiss, trying to keep her grades up at school, and how to handle it when a friend moves away. I loved Ricky’s character, too, and his interactions with Imogen are especially well done. Yes, there is a bit of romance, but it’s not the focus of the story. Imogen and Ricky are attracted to each other, but they also have some obstacles to get past before their happy ending. More than once, Ricky and Imogen trade actual blows, which may turn some readers off. But I thought these scenes were important in not only propelling the story forward, but giving us a glimpse into Imogen’s inner turmoil.
The author uses color as a theme throughout the book, and I loved the way she accomplished this. She starts out by describing the different belt colors of Tae Kwon Do and their importance in Imogen’s life. Then she has Imogen compare herself to her brother:
We have similar features, but they came out wrong on me, like secondhand clothes. If his short, curly hair is a buttery-golden sunflower, my straight, thick tresses are the color of dandelions—nourished with acid rain. If his eyes are the clear aquamarine of a thirst-quenching mirage, mine are a dry, hazel-colored chalk and the boring sidewalk beneath it.
This gorgeous writing continues up to the end, when she cleverly brings color back to wrap things up.
So what did happen that night at the diner? Imogen does eventually recover her memories, but it takes time and the help of friends and family, including some wise advice from Grandmaster Huan. The details of the shooting are not nearly as important as Imogen’s journey toward healing and self-discovery. Her story will stay with you long after you’ve read the final page, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll be dying to read Sarah Skilton’s next book.
Many thanks to the author for the signed ARC I won!
Imogen is a sixteen-year-old with a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. The past six years of her life have been dedicated to immersing herself in martial arts and adhering to the rules set forth by Grandmaster Huan, her teacher. But one night as she and a friend are about to leave a diner, a man with a gun tries to rob the place. Instead of using her martial arts skills to stop the holdup, Imogen hides under a table. From her spot on the ground, she sees a boy across the way, also hiding. The next thing she knows, she’s at the police station, covered in blood. No matter how hard she tries, she can’t remember the events of the shooting. But even worse, she blames herself for the gunman’s death, for not being able to use her fighting skills when it really mattered.
One day at school she is called in to see the school counselor, and she meets the mysterious boy from the diner, a boy named Ricky who sets her heart fluttering. Ricky and Imogen attend counseling sessions together to overcome the stress of the shooting, getting to know each other better in the process. The rest of the story involves Imogen’s slow emergence from self-blame to accepting the things in life she can’t control.
This book isn’t really about the plot. I pretty much gave you a wrap up of the story in the last two paragraphs. So why did I love it so much? I loved it because this is a story about relationships and how they can hurt us, help us, and define us. Even before the shooting, Imogen is having problems with many of the people in her life. Her girlfriends are dropping her because they are interested in dating her older brother, Hunter. Her brother is stealing her friends by sleeping with them. And her father is in a wheelchair after being diagnosed with diabetes. Everything is changing, and Imogen is having trouble dealing. Everything except Tae Kwon Do, the one thing in her life that feels steady and comforting. But after the shooting, she realizes that even her well-honed fighting skills have failed her, and she doesn’t know how to come back from the shock of the experience.
There’s a line in the book about building up your muscles, and that the only way to make them stronger is to tear them down first. Skilton uses this as a metaphor as Imogen comes to grips with the tragedy and what her life means now that she’s questioning everything she believes in. Her emotional turmoil is written in such a believable way, and her interactions with Ricky, her family and her friends seem honest and true to life. Poor Imogen is going through a lot, and it’s no wonder she nearly has a mental breakdown. In addition to the drama surrounding the shooting, she’s also dealing with normal teenage stuff: her first kiss, trying to keep her grades up at school, and how to handle it when a friend moves away. I loved Ricky’s character, too, and his interactions with Imogen are especially well done. Yes, there is a bit of romance, but it’s not the focus of the story. Imogen and Ricky are attracted to each other, but they also have some obstacles to get past before their happy ending. More than once, Ricky and Imogen trade actual blows, which may turn some readers off. But I thought these scenes were important in not only propelling the story forward, but giving us a glimpse into Imogen’s inner turmoil.
The author uses color as a theme throughout the book, and I loved the way she accomplished this. She starts out by describing the different belt colors of Tae Kwon Do and their importance in Imogen’s life. Then she has Imogen compare herself to her brother:
We have similar features, but they came out wrong on me, like secondhand clothes. If his short, curly hair is a buttery-golden sunflower, my straight, thick tresses are the color of dandelions—nourished with acid rain. If his eyes are the clear aquamarine of a thirst-quenching mirage, mine are a dry, hazel-colored chalk and the boring sidewalk beneath it.
This gorgeous writing continues up to the end, when she cleverly brings color back to wrap things up.
So what did happen that night at the diner? Imogen does eventually recover her memories, but it takes time and the help of friends and family, including some wise advice from Grandmaster Huan. The details of the shooting are not nearly as important as Imogen’s journey toward healing and self-discovery. Her story will stay with you long after you’ve read the final page, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll be dying to read Sarah Skilton’s next book.
Many thanks to the author for the signed ARC I won!
May 11, 2020
Imogen has been training for six years for this moment, a moment where she would protect those in harms way, where her training can come to use. Yet, when that moment comes, there is nothing Imogen can do.
I really liked this book. We see the hurt, pain and suffering of a girl who feels guilty for a man's death. She feels that she doesn't deserve her black belt because she wasn't upholding the ideals she was taught for so many years. She is tired of never being good enough, and is angry/upset/frustrated at her family for some many other reasons.
This is a good book in discovering yourself agiai and coming to terms with things you can and cannot control.
I really liked this book. We see the hurt, pain and suffering of a girl who feels guilty for a man's death. She feels that she doesn't deserve her black belt because she wasn't upholding the ideals she was taught for so many years. She is tired of never being good enough, and is angry/upset/frustrated at her family for some many other reasons.
This is a good book in discovering yourself agiai and coming to terms with things you can and cannot control.
April 2, 2013
I have had my eye on this book for a while, the cover of the book is simple but very eye catching, and one that drew me in, once I had read the synopsis I knew I had to read it so I was excited to receive a copy for review.
I love this quote, to me it embodies the idea of the story and the character Imogen. Bruised is about Imogen and focuses on the aftermath of the hold up in the diner and how she is dealing with it, or not dealing in her case. It affects her friends, family, school and even herself. She is second guessing her actions and what she could have done, the guilt literally eats her alive and she can't seem to move past it and try to pick up the pieces and carry on with her life.
During the story we get to meet people that play important parts in Imogen's life. Her Brother Hunter, who once was her close friend, who now dates and sleeps his way through her friends, destroying the friendships she made with them and causing her to lose a close friend. ;Rick plays a very important role in Bruised also, he was in the diner with Imogen and was a witness to the traumatic event. I really enjoyed getting to know him and his family, and get to see him bring out a different side to Imogen.
When I initially began reading Bruised I had firm feelings about what I felt about the characters, especially Hunter, but as I got further on I saw a different side to him, one that made me rethink my original judgement about him, and while I do not like how he acts towards Imogen's friends, he did manage to clear his name a bit for me. Ricky was a sweetheart, he supports Imogen when he can and to be honest takes a lot of crap off her that he didn't really deserve.
Bruised really makes you think, not only about what you would do in a similar situation but how a traumatic event can spiral out of control and effect everyone. No matter how many trophy's, awards or belts you have, do they actually mean anything when it comes down to actually implementing what you know or can do. Faced with danger like Imogen was, could you stand up and fight not knowing what might happen or would you keep yourself safe and 100% alive. I personally would like to think that if I was faced with something that I could get up and fight, but part of me doubts I could do this, and I guess we never know what we would do unless we were forced into action.
Bruised was a fantastic read, from the very first page, right up to the last word. I enjoyed every single page of it and finished it in a few hours, I could not put it down. Sarah Skilton has woven a story that draws you in and doesn't let go. When I reached the end of the book I did not want it to be over, I wanted more of Imogen, more Ricky and more Hunter. The ending of the book was perfect, even though it came far too soon, and it was good to see the characters come full circle.
"My black belt represents everything I could've done and everything I didn't do, the only time it really mattered."
Page 3 uncorrected proof
I love this quote, to me it embodies the idea of the story and the character Imogen. Bruised is about Imogen and focuses on the aftermath of the hold up in the diner and how she is dealing with it, or not dealing in her case. It affects her friends, family, school and even herself. She is second guessing her actions and what she could have done, the guilt literally eats her alive and she can't seem to move past it and try to pick up the pieces and carry on with her life.
During the story we get to meet people that play important parts in Imogen's life. Her Brother Hunter, who once was her close friend, who now dates and sleeps his way through her friends, destroying the friendships she made with them and causing her to lose a close friend. ;Rick plays a very important role in Bruised also, he was in the diner with Imogen and was a witness to the traumatic event. I really enjoyed getting to know him and his family, and get to see him bring out a different side to Imogen.
When I initially began reading Bruised I had firm feelings about what I felt about the characters, especially Hunter, but as I got further on I saw a different side to him, one that made me rethink my original judgement about him, and while I do not like how he acts towards Imogen's friends, he did manage to clear his name a bit for me. Ricky was a sweetheart, he supports Imogen when he can and to be honest takes a lot of crap off her that he didn't really deserve.
Bruised really makes you think, not only about what you would do in a similar situation but how a traumatic event can spiral out of control and effect everyone. No matter how many trophy's, awards or belts you have, do they actually mean anything when it comes down to actually implementing what you know or can do. Faced with danger like Imogen was, could you stand up and fight not knowing what might happen or would you keep yourself safe and 100% alive. I personally would like to think that if I was faced with something that I could get up and fight, but part of me doubts I could do this, and I guess we never know what we would do unless we were forced into action.
Bruised was a fantastic read, from the very first page, right up to the last word. I enjoyed every single page of it and finished it in a few hours, I could not put it down. Sarah Skilton has woven a story that draws you in and doesn't let go. When I reached the end of the book I did not want it to be over, I wanted more of Imogen, more Ricky and more Hunter. The ending of the book was perfect, even though it came far too soon, and it was good to see the characters come full circle.
May 13, 2013
I always find stories that deal with a traumatic incident and how it affects the characters minds (and essentially their day to day life) utterly fascinating. BRUISED dealt with just that. After Imogen lives through being one of the few patrons in a diner when it is held up she has blocked much of the event out of her mind. As she struggles with clearing the clouds in her memory of that day and with how mad she is at herself for not doing anything an interesting story unfolds but it left me longing for more of a connection to the characters.
Imogen is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, her ranking and the fact that she didn’t do anything to take the gunman down during the heist is wreaking havoc inside her. Immediately after the event I really felt for her and I was sad that she was struggling so much with her self confidence. I could understand why she was beating herself up over it after having gotten so far and mastered her colors in TKD. But somewhere along the way her inner turmoil just lost me and I started to feel as if it was a bit grating. This is entirely personal and I know that there are tons of people who disagree with me but I started to kind of glaze over to her emotions. I longed for more to happen outside of her strife and inner dialogue that was essentially beating herself up.
She does make a great connection with Ricky (another survivor of the heist) he was a sweet guy but failed to become more than that. I think there were quite a few missed connections in the story and looking back there was so much potential. Imogen is in a fight with her very best friend and I wanted to get to see them work it out, she is having a hard time accepting her brother’s sleazy ways and I wanted to see them work it out, but there was so much turmoil which led up to some very short resolutions in the end. I think had I gone on more of the ups & downs in these relationships I would have connected to them more, but it was pretty much always down and I never got to experience the peaks. One relationship that I could connect to was between Imogen and her father. As someone who has a father who struggles with overeating greatly affecting his health I could feel the frustrations that she felt when looking at him. I latched onto those moments and was happy that we got to go through more with those two than with the relationships I mentioned previously.
An interesting look at PTSD and how it can affect a teenagers life, BRUISED was a read that kept me entertained for a day and a half but it’s not one that I will be thinking about for a long time to come. I think this is a solid read but I wish I had gotten more out of it. But hey, look at all the glowing reviews on Goodreads, maybe you will get something more out of it than me.
--
You can read all of my reviews at Alluring Reads.
Imogen is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, her ranking and the fact that she didn’t do anything to take the gunman down during the heist is wreaking havoc inside her. Immediately after the event I really felt for her and I was sad that she was struggling so much with her self confidence. I could understand why she was beating herself up over it after having gotten so far and mastered her colors in TKD. But somewhere along the way her inner turmoil just lost me and I started to feel as if it was a bit grating. This is entirely personal and I know that there are tons of people who disagree with me but I started to kind of glaze over to her emotions. I longed for more to happen outside of her strife and inner dialogue that was essentially beating herself up.
She does make a great connection with Ricky (another survivor of the heist) he was a sweet guy but failed to become more than that. I think there were quite a few missed connections in the story and looking back there was so much potential. Imogen is in a fight with her very best friend and I wanted to get to see them work it out, she is having a hard time accepting her brother’s sleazy ways and I wanted to see them work it out, but there was so much turmoil which led up to some very short resolutions in the end. I think had I gone on more of the ups & downs in these relationships I would have connected to them more, but it was pretty much always down and I never got to experience the peaks. One relationship that I could connect to was between Imogen and her father. As someone who has a father who struggles with overeating greatly affecting his health I could feel the frustrations that she felt when looking at him. I latched onto those moments and was happy that we got to go through more with those two than with the relationships I mentioned previously.
An interesting look at PTSD and how it can affect a teenagers life, BRUISED was a read that kept me entertained for a day and a half but it’s not one that I will be thinking about for a long time to come. I think this is a solid read but I wish I had gotten more out of it. But hey, look at all the glowing reviews on Goodreads, maybe you will get something more out of it than me.
--
You can read all of my reviews at Alluring Reads.
February 4, 2013
_________________________________
This review and more at Readers In Wonderland
_________________________________
Full formatting of this review shows on the blog. ^
BRUISED tells the story of a girl named Imogen, a teenage black belt. She believes the black belt makes her confident and strong. It takes an awful experience to show her just how wrong she is about being a black belt. Imogen , that's Imo-gen, believes in one thing above all-protect the weak. So when the diner she is at one night gets held up by gunpoint, she blanks out. The gunman ends up dead, and she blames herself. After all, what was all that training for if it didn't come in handy when she needed it most? At least, this is what she thinks. With the help of a boy that experienced the event with her, Imogen has to figure out what it truly means to be a black belt.
"The younger you are, the quicker you can normalize an event and move on, because you don't know any other way of life. It just becomes a small part of your narrative as the years go by. But it seems to me the younger you are when something bad happens to you, the longer you have to carry it with you."
Imogen is a great protagonist: relatable and humorous. You are able to feel her emotions and struggles, she is really hurting from the diner accident. Luckily, she has some help from her family and a boy that was in the incident with her. Ricky is also a great character, he has lot of depth and maybe even worse issues than Imogen has.
This novel has its fair share of laughs, tears, and memorable quotes. It also has some pretty cool cultural references. Like being said, you don't have to have knowledge of Tae Kwon Do or anything to really enjoy the story. It's not even really about that, it's the fact that Imogen has this ability but it "failed" her when she needed it.
'You're bruised,' he says. 'It means you're alive.'
"With action, romance, and a complex heroine, Bruised introduces a vibrant new voice to the young adult world -- full of dark humor and hard truths." Definitely. I would say that this is for sure more contemporary, though. With some romance and fighting sprinkled in. It's really about dealing with the issues that plagues Imogen after this haunting encounter.
That open ending really gets me, though. On one hand, I was begging to know what happened with the characters relationship-wise. On the other, if you step back for a bit, you can truly appreciate how it is left open for you to imagine the possibilities. That is what makes a great book.
This review and more at Readers In Wonderland
_________________________________
Full formatting of this review shows on the blog. ^
BRUISED tells the story of a girl named Imogen, a teenage black belt. She believes the black belt makes her confident and strong. It takes an awful experience to show her just how wrong she is about being a black belt. Imogen , that's Imo-gen, believes in one thing above all-protect the weak. So when the diner she is at one night gets held up by gunpoint, she blanks out. The gunman ends up dead, and she blames herself. After all, what was all that training for if it didn't come in handy when she needed it most? At least, this is what she thinks. With the help of a boy that experienced the event with her, Imogen has to figure out what it truly means to be a black belt.
"The younger you are, the quicker you can normalize an event and move on, because you don't know any other way of life. It just becomes a small part of your narrative as the years go by. But it seems to me the younger you are when something bad happens to you, the longer you have to carry it with you."
Imogen is a great protagonist: relatable and humorous. You are able to feel her emotions and struggles, she is really hurting from the diner accident. Luckily, she has some help from her family and a boy that was in the incident with her. Ricky is also a great character, he has lot of depth and maybe even worse issues than Imogen has.
This novel has its fair share of laughs, tears, and memorable quotes. It also has some pretty cool cultural references. Like being said, you don't have to have knowledge of Tae Kwon Do or anything to really enjoy the story. It's not even really about that, it's the fact that Imogen has this ability but it "failed" her when she needed it.
'You're bruised,' he says. 'It means you're alive.'
"With action, romance, and a complex heroine, Bruised introduces a vibrant new voice to the young adult world -- full of dark humor and hard truths." Definitely. I would say that this is for sure more contemporary, though. With some romance and fighting sprinkled in. It's really about dealing with the issues that plagues Imogen after this haunting encounter.
That open ending really gets me, though. On one hand, I was begging to know what happened with the characters relationship-wise. On the other, if you step back for a bit, you can truly appreciate how it is left open for you to imagine the possibilities. That is what makes a great book.
December 4, 2013
In Bruised, Sarah Skilton is set to take the YA world by storm. In this incredible debut she brings a powerhouse combination of emotion, romance, and action that left me breathless and reeling and utterly wrecked in the best way possible..
When we first meet Imogen she is in a state of shock, left bereft after the events that have transpired in the diner. There is no build-up, no warming to this character—Skilton bravely thrusts her into the spotlight having just survived an unthinkable ordeal. I loved that I didn’t have any preconceived ideas of who Imogen was prior to the shooting. All I got was the brokenness and confusion that came seconds after everything went down, and from there I got to watch Imogen rebuild and grow.
I can’t say enough about Imogen. Through a few flashbacks you get the gist that while she wasn’t the most popular girl in school; she had this confidence that was unshakable due to her devotion to martial arts. I love that Skilton didn’t romanticize Tae Kwon Do. The sport requires absolute dedication and discipline, and only a handful of people can thrive under the rigorous demands of it. It’s not flowery ceremonies or tough guys who can’t be hurt and Imogen isn’t a girl who quickly bounces back. It takes time for her to recover.
While this book is a quick read, clocking in under 300 pages, there is nothing quick about Imogen’s journey. Skilton took her time with the pacing, giving her protagonist the time needed to heal and evolve. It’s not an easy road, and my heart broke for Imogen several times over, especially when she regains her memory of what really happened in the diner, but it’s a road I would gladly travel with this character. From the start I was drawn to the dual strength and vulnerability Imogen possessed.
Few books have spoken to me the way Bruised has. Yes, it is a coming of age story, of a girl finding she is not as invincible as most teens think they are, but there is a lesson here that translates across generations and social divides. It’s the story of a human being realizing that they are human and learning to accept that, and that is something I think everyone can appreciate.
When we first meet Imogen she is in a state of shock, left bereft after the events that have transpired in the diner. There is no build-up, no warming to this character—Skilton bravely thrusts her into the spotlight having just survived an unthinkable ordeal. I loved that I didn’t have any preconceived ideas of who Imogen was prior to the shooting. All I got was the brokenness and confusion that came seconds after everything went down, and from there I got to watch Imogen rebuild and grow.
I can’t say enough about Imogen. Through a few flashbacks you get the gist that while she wasn’t the most popular girl in school; she had this confidence that was unshakable due to her devotion to martial arts. I love that Skilton didn’t romanticize Tae Kwon Do. The sport requires absolute dedication and discipline, and only a handful of people can thrive under the rigorous demands of it. It’s not flowery ceremonies or tough guys who can’t be hurt and Imogen isn’t a girl who quickly bounces back. It takes time for her to recover.
While this book is a quick read, clocking in under 300 pages, there is nothing quick about Imogen’s journey. Skilton took her time with the pacing, giving her protagonist the time needed to heal and evolve. It’s not an easy road, and my heart broke for Imogen several times over, especially when she regains her memory of what really happened in the diner, but it’s a road I would gladly travel with this character. From the start I was drawn to the dual strength and vulnerability Imogen possessed.
Few books have spoken to me the way Bruised has. Yes, it is a coming of age story, of a girl finding she is not as invincible as most teens think they are, but there is a lesson here that translates across generations and social divides. It’s the story of a human being realizing that they are human and learning to accept that, and that is something I think everyone can appreciate.
May 9, 2013
3.5 Stars
Let me preface this by saying that I do not have a heart of stone because it seems that I am among the few that this book did not resonate with completely. Secondly, let me reiterate that I liked it. I just didn’t love it.
Bruised tells the story of a girl trained in martial arts who struggles with PTSD after a diner hold-up results in the gunman’s death, leaving her to deal with the ensuing guilt and depression from her inability to prevent it.
By the time my brother arrives, he can’t get to me.
The cops have barricaded the diner—two blocks in all directions. Blood and worse coats my hair, my face, and my clothes, sticking to me like chunks of blackberry jam. They had to cut me out of my shirt, but since they can’t cut me out of my skin, I don’t see how I’ll ever be clean.
The opening packs a punch and there is no doubt that Sarah Skilton can write. There were little golden nuggets of like prose throughout that were poignant and heart-felt and raw — exactly the sort of writing I love most. But what I had difficulty with in spite of this was connecting with some of the characters and in particular the MC herself.
I completely get the family issues; she’s hard, really hard in her judgement of their mistakes and actions, a trait, which explains why she’s so hard on herself after the diner incident. But Imogen was not a character I sympathized mainly because I did not find her very likeable. And then there was the sudden and albeit convenient turn around of the parents that lacked realism and reeked more of the need for a HEA ending.
Still, this is an impressive debut novel, and I look forward to Skilton’s future books.
Let me preface this by saying that I do not have a heart of stone because it seems that I am among the few that this book did not resonate with completely. Secondly, let me reiterate that I liked it. I just didn’t love it.
Bruised tells the story of a girl trained in martial arts who struggles with PTSD after a diner hold-up results in the gunman’s death, leaving her to deal with the ensuing guilt and depression from her inability to prevent it.
By the time my brother arrives, he can’t get to me.
The cops have barricaded the diner—two blocks in all directions. Blood and worse coats my hair, my face, and my clothes, sticking to me like chunks of blackberry jam. They had to cut me out of my shirt, but since they can’t cut me out of my skin, I don’t see how I’ll ever be clean.
The opening packs a punch and there is no doubt that Sarah Skilton can write. There were little golden nuggets of like prose throughout that were poignant and heart-felt and raw — exactly the sort of writing I love most. But what I had difficulty with in spite of this was connecting with some of the characters and in particular the MC herself.
I completely get the family issues; she’s hard, really hard in her judgement of their mistakes and actions, a trait, which explains why she’s so hard on herself after the diner incident. But Imogen was not a character I sympathized mainly because I did not find her very likeable. And then there was the sudden and albeit convenient turn around of the parents that lacked realism and reeked more of the need for a HEA ending.
Still, this is an impressive debut novel, and I look forward to Skilton’s future books.
April 1, 2014
I think I should not have started this book at 10 pm on Sunday night. Finding a novel so potent it caused me to pull an all-nighter was worth it, though.
Imogen is in the wrong place at the wrong time. As she waits for her friend to wash up in the diner's lavatory, a twitchy, frenetic man storms inside waving a gun. Imogene quietly hides under a table, keeping absolutely still as sounds of violence and pain echo around her. Her guilt is a live thing that grows after the event, after the police arrive and gently escort her from the wreckage, after her popular older brother and parents help her home.
Survivor's guilt is real, but in Imogene's case, it has an additional punch. Imogen is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Certificates of her belt tests, achievements, and competition victories decorate her bedroom walls floor to ceiling. How could she have failed so terribly? What good were her skills? Was she truly deserving of those belts? She decides in her heart that she is not worthy of the martial art, not worthy of anything.
The author delves into themes of trauma, violence, and personal responsibility by leading the reader through Imogene's agonizing journey to find her way back to normal. Not a character or word is wasted. Her handsome, charismatic golden boy brother, whom she stubbornly refuses to forgive for an earlier trespass, valiantly labors to keep her from hurting herself and the family. Her parents are equally complex, their many human flaws, such as the father's ignoring his diabetes, are so real, it feels a bit voyeuristic, reading of this tragic family.
The ending is at once poignant, true, unexpected, and satisfying.
Imogen is in the wrong place at the wrong time. As she waits for her friend to wash up in the diner's lavatory, a twitchy, frenetic man storms inside waving a gun. Imogene quietly hides under a table, keeping absolutely still as sounds of violence and pain echo around her. Her guilt is a live thing that grows after the event, after the police arrive and gently escort her from the wreckage, after her popular older brother and parents help her home.
Survivor's guilt is real, but in Imogene's case, it has an additional punch. Imogen is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Certificates of her belt tests, achievements, and competition victories decorate her bedroom walls floor to ceiling. How could she have failed so terribly? What good were her skills? Was she truly deserving of those belts? She decides in her heart that she is not worthy of the martial art, not worthy of anything.
The author delves into themes of trauma, violence, and personal responsibility by leading the reader through Imogene's agonizing journey to find her way back to normal. Not a character or word is wasted. Her handsome, charismatic golden boy brother, whom she stubbornly refuses to forgive for an earlier trespass, valiantly labors to keep her from hurting herself and the family. Her parents are equally complex, their many human flaws, such as the father's ignoring his diabetes, are so real, it feels a bit voyeuristic, reading of this tragic family.
The ending is at once poignant, true, unexpected, and satisfying.
March 30, 2014
I’ve heard a lot of good things about Bruised, that’s why when Amulet Books sent me a copy for review, I immediately read it and until now, I don’t know whether to give this one 3 or 4 stars.
First of all, I really admire the main character, Imogen, for her bravery. Heck, she was only sixteen when she witnessed a holdup in a diner and survived it. Her story opened my eyes about PTSD and how it can affect a person, especially a teenager, and also those people surrounding you. But in Imogen’s case, she blames herself for what happened because she is someone who is a Tae Kwon Do black belter, and should know what to do in situations like that, but instead, she just froze and did nothing.
Even though I admired her character, I don’t find her that relatable and I’m losing more and more interest as I read the book. I don’t know if it’s because of her lack of chemistry with Ricky, the other holdup witness, or if it’s because I didn’t feel enough from Imogen. I just wish that the book impacted me more, in a way that it will really affect me and make me think about everything that’s in it – but unfortunately, it didn’t.
On the bright side, I liked Imogen’s passion for Tae Kwon Do and I’m glad that even though she went through something so difficult, her world did not stop there and she continued learning. Ricky is also a positive influence on Imogen and they coped with their problem together.
Again, I wish this impacted me more than it did, but it still is definitely worth reading.
First of all, I really admire the main character, Imogen, for her bravery. Heck, she was only sixteen when she witnessed a holdup in a diner and survived it. Her story opened my eyes about PTSD and how it can affect a person, especially a teenager, and also those people surrounding you. But in Imogen’s case, she blames herself for what happened because she is someone who is a Tae Kwon Do black belter, and should know what to do in situations like that, but instead, she just froze and did nothing.
Even though I admired her character, I don’t find her that relatable and I’m losing more and more interest as I read the book. I don’t know if it’s because of her lack of chemistry with Ricky, the other holdup witness, or if it’s because I didn’t feel enough from Imogen. I just wish that the book impacted me more, in a way that it will really affect me and make me think about everything that’s in it – but unfortunately, it didn’t.
On the bright side, I liked Imogen’s passion for Tae Kwon Do and I’m glad that even though she went through something so difficult, her world did not stop there and she continued learning. Ricky is also a positive influence on Imogen and they coped with their problem together.
Again, I wish this impacted me more than it did, but it still is definitely worth reading.
August 29, 2016
Grade: B+
Tae Kwon Do black belt Imogene freezes when a gunman tries to rob a diner and he winds up dead. She can't forgive herself for not using her skills. She angry, so angry she's getting into fights. Underneath her fury, fear and nightmares from that night. She's pushing everyone away, but can't seem to stop herself.
Imogen is such a well rounded character. She sees the world in black and white, is quick to anger and slow to forgive. She's resentful that her father has become wheelchair bound, furious her brother slept with her ex best friend, but maddest at herself for failing to prevent the gunman's death. I liked her a lot, although she wasn't always likable. She was super judgmental about her friend wanting to lose her virginity and mentioned several times she rarely cursed (usually after she swore).
Sarah Skilton gave Imogen a great voice, sarcastically humorous even in the depths of despair. Skilton showed, never told which gave the book great pacing and emotion. She included a diverse cast of characters in an unobtrusive manner.
**Minor spoiler** not about the plot, but it happens late in the story.
I strongly objected to the minor subplot where Imogen tried to get Ricky to hit her and was appalled that he actually did, at her behest. I don't think it's ever appropriate to use males hitting females as a positive part of a relationship.
Tae Kwon Do black belt Imogene freezes when a gunman tries to rob a diner and he winds up dead. She can't forgive herself for not using her skills. She angry, so angry she's getting into fights. Underneath her fury, fear and nightmares from that night. She's pushing everyone away, but can't seem to stop herself.
Imogen is such a well rounded character. She sees the world in black and white, is quick to anger and slow to forgive. She's resentful that her father has become wheelchair bound, furious her brother slept with her ex best friend, but maddest at herself for failing to prevent the gunman's death. I liked her a lot, although she wasn't always likable. She was super judgmental about her friend wanting to lose her virginity and mentioned several times she rarely cursed (usually after she swore).
Sarah Skilton gave Imogen a great voice, sarcastically humorous even in the depths of despair. Skilton showed, never told which gave the book great pacing and emotion. She included a diverse cast of characters in an unobtrusive manner.
**Minor spoiler** not about the plot, but it happens late in the story.
I strongly objected to the minor subplot where Imogen tried to get Ricky to hit her and was appalled that he actually did, at her behest. I don't think it's ever appropriate to use males hitting females as a positive part of a relationship.
January 12, 2015
I am totally bias towards this book being am a black belt in Tae Kwon Do myself, but I must say, I really enjoyed this book. For me, it was easy to truly appreciate this book because I'm a martial artist.
The struggles and thoughts Imogen faces are things I have wondered myself. If I am ever in an actual dangerous situation, and not just partnering up against someone in class, how would I react? I'd like to think I would be able to defend myself, still, they say you never know what you'd do in a hypothetical situation. Also, sometimes I have trouble incorporating Tae Kwon Do into my daily life, and reading this book just showed me how much it affects people.
I liked the varying relationships Imogen went through in the book, from learning to forgive her brother and best friend, finding a boyfriend, reuniting with her parents, and dealing with herself and the guilt she has towards herself. I don't know what it's like to be in a situation like Imogen was, but I can see how much of a emotional battle it turns into and the questions it arouses.
If you are a martial artist or interested in it, I would definitely recommend this book!
The struggles and thoughts Imogen faces are things I have wondered myself. If I am ever in an actual dangerous situation, and not just partnering up against someone in class, how would I react? I'd like to think I would be able to defend myself, still, they say you never know what you'd do in a hypothetical situation. Also, sometimes I have trouble incorporating Tae Kwon Do into my daily life, and reading this book just showed me how much it affects people.
I liked the varying relationships Imogen went through in the book, from learning to forgive her brother and best friend, finding a boyfriend, reuniting with her parents, and dealing with herself and the guilt she has towards herself. I don't know what it's like to be in a situation like Imogen was, but I can see how much of a emotional battle it turns into and the questions it arouses.
If you are a martial artist or interested in it, I would definitely recommend this book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews