Extended Content Warning

There is a chapter in this book where Viola finally addresses and copes with the rape and sexual assault that she experienced during her first Race. While what happened to her has been alluded to and briefly described in The Last Winter and The First Fall, in this book, the assault is fully recreated in detail.

Discussions for this recreation begin in chapter 37 and continue into the first half of chapter 43. The assault recreation is explicit and is in chapter 38. It is written in Viola's POV.

There are so many ways people heal from and cope with sexual assault and rape, and Viola's way is certainly not for everyone. There is no right or wrong way to heal from traumatic events. While she is reluctant at first to participate in this recreation, Viola is always fully in control; her safe word is in play, and she consents to what she and Mace do. Mace is fully aware of the trust she places in his hands during this vulnerable moment, and he does not abuse that trust even once.

If you have experienced rape or sexual assault and need support, please consider reaching out to the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.