Told in alternating parts by Donovan and George, The Scarecrow & George C by Mia Kerick looks at fear, abuse, and what it takes to learn to live again. Donovan sees himself as a Scarecrow. He goes out of his way to dress and act in an intimidating manner in order to protect himself. George C sees himself as tainted, and despite his more outgoing personality, fears being looked at in disgust. Can these two broken men help each other heal?

Each spoke in first person, and broke the fourth wall completely by addressing the reader directly often, which I loved. Donovan was more sarcastic, but I did feel there was little other difference in tone between Van and George. I felt so bad for both of these boys! I cannot imagine a mother choosing a boyfriend over a child, and turning a blind eye to abuse. I know it happens, hell, I know people it has happened to, and yet… I can’t wrap my mind around it. Nor can I wrap my mind around verbal and emotional abuse towards your own child, and denigrating them for being gay. All of these can leave deep scars and warp the personality of a child (or even an adult). I was so happy that Donovan started learning to trust again. Having recalcitrant trust issues myself, it’s always nice to see happy resolutions in that regard.

***Many thanks to Netgalley and NineStar Press for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. Reviewed as part of the XPresso Blog Tour.