Not as dark as I was anticipating, which made it very palatable!! I was planning on taking the book in bits and pieces as r*pe, a*use, as*ault, etc. can be hard to read. Especially when you've experienced similar. I had the hardest time putting this book down, seriously. I've never 'craved' a book so much. I'd have to leave the book at home otherwise I wouldn't be getting any work done at work. Beautifully written, excellent pacing, character development was awesome, and the book as a whole is just *chefs kiss*. Magnifico!! 20/10 recommend. And damn right, Tiffany, MUTE MOTHERF*ING R KELLY!!!!!!