Books like The Way I Used To Be by Amber Smith

Amber Smith’s debut novel follows Eden as she navigates life in high school after being raped by a friend of her brother’s. Told in four parts—freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior years—the narrative explores Eden’s emotional turmoil, the breakdown and rebuilding of friendships, and her growing awareness of her own inner strength. As she grapples with pain, confusion, and the weight of silence, Eden ultimately learns to confront her trauma and embrace the resilience she has hidden within her heart. She once knew the world was simple and predictable; now she confronts the complex realities of betrayal, emotional distress, and the challenges of teenage life, all while holding onto hope and the possibility of healing. The novel offers a candid look at the emotional problems faced by teenagers dealing with sexual violence and the difficult path toward recovery and empowerment.

First publish date: 2016