The Way We Become

Published by Rock the Boat
Distributed by Simon & Schuster

About The Book

Eden struggled to find her voice when her brother's friend raped her – until she realised she wasn't alone

When Eden was raped by her brother's friend Kevin, it was almost impossible to tell her family, let alone report to the police. But when Kevin's own sister, Amanda, and his ex-girlfriend Gen also came forward, the girls found strength in their solidarity and did everything in their power to pursue justice.

Now, in the wake of the jury's decision, they are expected to move on while still grappling with the grief and hurt from the events that turned their lives inside out. With Amanda finishing high school, Eden adjusting to college, and Gen determining her path after graduation, each girl must chart her own course forward and discover the women they'll become.

From bestselling author Amber Smith comes a powerful story of justice, autonomy, and healing that will sit with readers long after they've turned the final page.

About The Author

Amber Smith is the New York Times bestselling author of the young adult novels The Way I Used to Be and The Last to Let Go. An advocate for increased awareness of gendered violence, as well as LGBTQ equality, she writes in the hope that her books can help to foster change and spark dialogue surrounding these issues. She grew up in Buffalo, New York, and now lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her partner and their ever-growing family of rescue dogs and cats. You can find her online at AmberSmithAuthor.com.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Rock the Boat (October 8, 2026)
  • Length: 400 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781836432067
  • Ages: 14 - 99

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Raves and Reviews

Praise for The Way I Used To Be series:

‘A courageous, necessary, and beautiful book.' Kathleen Glasgow, author of Girl in Pieces

'A raw novel that’ll stay with you long after you finish.' Buzzfeed

'An unflinching look at the struggles of a rape victim to process her trauma and find the strength to rebuild her life.' Laurie Halse Anderson, author of Speak

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More books from this author: Amber Smith

More books in this series: The Way I Used to Be

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