Something that, thankfully, most of us will not have any personal experience of, the story of a child who is abused by her so-called guardian, her step-father in this instance, is highly and usually entertaining. For a subject so morbid, the story reveals more about Christina’s strength of character, and how her life progresses despite the terrible scenarios she lives with every day. I was truly hooked throughout! I deeply applaud Christina for telling her story, and getting it into the public air – a very brave, courageous and strong lady. Although not everyone’s ‘cup of tea’ because of the very nature of the tale, I have no problem recommending this book. (Yvonne Marrs Book Tour Reviewer)
Inspirational account that everyone should read, if not for the story of strength and perseverance over adversity, but for the decision to overcome and battle despite the odds. This is a crushing and heart-felt memoir that can only inspire the reader to evaluate their surroundings and see the beauty of their existence. That there is evil out there. Evil and cruelty that can be overcome. It even made me question my own inner strength and the superficial worries I often harbor. (Andrew Bell Book Tour Reviewer)
I was apprehensive about reading this book. I don’t often read memoirs in the first place, and knowing the dark subject matter that is involved in this nonfictional, personal account made me hesitant, especially knowing I’d be expected to write this review afterward. When I began to read, though, I was surprised to find myself completely drawn in, in the same way I’m drawn in by the writing of some of my favourite fiction novelists. Poignantly, it is not a work of fiction, but the skillfully written, subjective narration makes you feel what the author feels with every page. It is horrific, but it isn’t just horrific; it’s hopeful, clever, tragic, angry, and honest. It’s a testament to the author’s determination not to allow her abusers to define who she is as a person. (Tim Marshall Book Tour Reviewer)
A good, well written book which at times had me screaming at Christina to run as fast as she could away from her situation. I was invested in her story and I can understand why she did stick around, out of a fear of loneliness and lack of resources. Given the time the events occurred, there was also perhaps less help available. Although I would not normally read a book about sexual assault, I found this book engaging and thought provoking. (Eileen Tilley Book Tour Reviewer)
A subject that I would not normally choose to read, and I’ll admit I balked at it initially. Who wants to read about child abuse? However, I would stress that this book is so beautifully written that any reader worried about distressing detail should be reassured. All abuse is implied rather than graphically described. The journey takes us from the moment Christina’s life changed with the arrival of her new stepfather and three stepbrothers, to adulthood and her (hopefully) happy ending. I cannot stress enough the quality of the writing, and the high standard of the editing and production. This is a book that everyone should read, and I recommend it wholeheartedly. (Deb Barwick Book Tour Reviewer)
Every Nine Minutes is a story told directly from the heart. I must admit though, I found it hard going. It is a rather harrowing subject to begin with, then it seems to change tack and turn into a different book. I appreciate the courage to tell such a story, and the author seems to be a formidable woman. Many people will benefit from Christina Vitagliano’s honest openness though, and I’m glad I read to the end as I found the epilogue the best part. (Eleanor Dixon Book Tour Reviewer)
This is a true story of a woman who lays her soul bare to the world and shares the most intimate details of her trauma experienced to provide a message of hope and courage to those who have experienced or are currently experience abuse, in whatever form that takes shape. And for that I wholeheartedly admire the author for such a courageous account of her life growing up. Betrayed in the worst possible way by the people who claim to love her, Christina fights to hold onto her identity and not let the abuse define who she is and who she chooses to become. Her story is well written, and although a harrowing subject, she describes events in such a way that are not considered too graphic, more inferred, which makes anyone who has suffered similar abuse, find this a more tolerable read. And I would recommend it, because whilst a difficult subject it inspires hope, and gives strength and encouragement, an understanding that whilst you may never forget, or forgive, you can heal. (Kirsty McKay)
For anyone who has suffered or is currently suffering abuse in silence, my thoughts and prayers are with you and please note there is support out there. The Samaritans have been working with The Book Dragon following this Book Tour and we would encourage anyone who needs help to seek their support. Call 116123 or email jo@samaritans.org or visit their website: www.samaritans.org.
Overall we award 4.5 stars.
