On the Fence

“Sometimes we expect more that people are capable of giving at the moment”

It's hinted/suggested that her mother committed suicide and Charlies goes on a rant about how her mom left her behind, didn't want her because she was selfish. Her father tells her that she has been struggling with mental illness for years yet Charlie's reaction implies it was a 'choice' for her to be like that. Because being suicidal is a 'choice'. What a great message to send, especially considering this book is targeted towards a young audience. Charlie reacts very strongly about finding out the truth yet all she needs to move on is to have Braden confess his love for her. It truly annoys me when authors give the characters a tragic backstory and then they brush over it.