4.5 stars 
 This is yet another book club read that I had been reluctant to read. I was worried that it would be boring, and probably depressing. 
 What's funny, is that it was both of those things, but not in a bad way. The pace of the story was slow, with very little plot movement. Instead, it was almost entirely character driven. The MC, Victoria, is a mess. She tells her story, swinging back and forth between past and present. In the past, she is a scarred and vicious ten year old. She is the kind of child that would make adults roll their eyes and walk away, grateful that she isn't their problem. In the present, Victoria is still dealing with all the issues that come from a life in the system, mostly self-inflicted. She is distant, close-lipped, and doesn't like to be touched. But even if she doesn't like people, she does have a way with flowers. 
 I had heard that this was a sad story, but as I began reading, I felt that it was more hopeful than depressing. It wasn't until I approached the end that I began to feel overwhelmed with grief and sadness. I had a difficult time putting the book down, but, when I did, it was near impossible to pick it up again. I kept anticipating the worst, but constantly reassured myself that there would be a happy ending. There had to be! 
 I recommend this book, but be ready for a heavy heart.