Shaken

-Jill Amber Chafin Read 12/13/2024-12/14/2024

Shaken will, without a doubt, leave you shook!!!

Shaken is a profound and gripping exploration of such a taboo subject, child abuse and its repercussions, particularly through the lens of Shaken Baby Syndrome while addressing mental health issues of those around the children in question.  Chafin bravely highlights the emotional turmoil that parents, guardians and caregivers experience when a child’s safety is compromised – not just from strangers, but from those they trust the most.

Chafin bravely takes on the complexities of love and betrayal in familial and caregiving relationships with realistic scenarios, twists and turns making you question who is responsible for the harm that came to little Morgan.  Characters like Charles (MMC) and Sally (FMC), who seem like devoted parents, are propelled into a nightmare that forces them to confront harsh realities.  Then you have Alyssa, the babysitter with her own secrets, adding another layer of intrigue and tension to the story.  It’s fascinating how the book addresses the idea that everyone has their struggles, which can lead to unforeseen actions and consequences.

Shaken presents discussions about mental health and challenges that arise when individuals face accusations of bringing about harm to a child.  In a world where trust is so crucial, these accusations can intensify one’s mental health issues, making the lines between reality and perception blur.  This would leave the accused attempting to maintain their innocence through whatever means necessary yet wanting to protect those in harm’s way.  Chafin’s reflections on the themes of innocence, guilt, and the sometimes-harsh realities of life resonate deeply to the reader.

Chafin crafts a gripping tale bursting with anguish and transformative events that compel you to keep turning the pages to uncover what lies ahead.  The unexpected twist at the end prompts you to reassess everything you’ve learned about the characters throughout the story.  By the time you finish the book, it feels as though you’ve endured a harrowing journey alongside the family, deepening the connection forged through their trials.  Ultimately, this book reminds you that everyone is human, capable of errors, and that anyone can be pushed to their limits.

I highly recommend Shaken but be warned TW’s of child abuse and mental health issues if you are a sensitive reader. 

Resources provided by Jill Amber Chaffin at the end of the book Shaken:

If you need emergency assistance at any time, including child abuse, call 911.

If you suspect child abuse and want to remain anonymous you can call Childhelp and they will direct the information on the child(ren) needing help to the appropriate people to get them help. Childhelp National Abuse Hotline:  800-422-4453

For more information on Shaken Baby Syndrome, including warning signs of possible harm, how to prevent it and where to get help see the following resources:

The National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome (NCSBS): HTTPS://WWW.DONTSHAKE.ORG

The Shaken Baby Alliance:  HTTPS://SHAKENBABY.ORG

Thank you, Jill Amber Chaffin, for entrusting me with an ARC of Shaken to read and leave my honest review.   As always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. I have not been promised any compensation by the author, present or future, for my review.

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