Whilst I've seen copies 'No Virgin' on sale before, the cover hasn't ever enticed me enough to actually give it a go. But, as the old adage goes, never judge a book by it's cover and that is definitely true for me with this book. To say I was hooked from the first line is in no way an exaggeration. Rape is often a taboo subject rarely discussed in books, but it happens, it happens way more than we care to consider, so it is incredibly important to see it discussed in literature, and from what I've read, this book deals with it in a sensible and sensitive manner.
Stacey, our 17 year old protagonist, is a shy and reticent girl with a somewhat difficult home life and a few close friends. She makes for a vulnerable and perhaps pitiable main character regardless of her opening statement declaring she was raped. Stacey's mum appears to be a complete push over and favours her younger sister Jodie, who got pregnant at the age of 14 and is clearly a reluctant and somewhat neglectful, mum. Both of these characters annoyed me within the first few pages. However, her best friend Patrice, is a realistic, strong and supportive friend, and although Stacey is worried their friendship is slipping away, I'm interested in how their relationship will develop in the novel.
Overall, a gripping first few chapters. I will definitely be adding this book to my wish list!
Stacey, our 17 year old protagonist, is a shy and reticent girl with a somewhat difficult home life and a few close friends. She makes for a vulnerable and perhaps pitiable main character regardless of her opening statement declaring she was raped. Stacey's mum appears to be a complete push over and favours her younger sister Jodie, who got pregnant at the age of 14 and is clearly a reluctant and somewhat neglectful, mum. Both of these characters annoyed me within the first few pages. However, her best friend Patrice, is a realistic, strong and supportive friend, and although Stacey is worried their friendship is slipping away, I'm interested in how their relationship will develop in the novel.
Overall, a gripping first few chapters. I will definitely be adding this book to my wish list!