“Even as our hearts are breaking we are falling in love.” J.D. Spero, author of Boy on Hold

Being a chubby girl in a society that values skinny isn’t just painful. Sometimes, it’s downright dangerous.

Eighteen-year-old Lena learns this all too well when a tactless remark from her boyfriend triggers her descent into anorexia and depression. Repeatedly congratulated for her weight loss, Lena’s disordered eating escalates. It isn’t until she hits rock bottom that Lena admits her reckless pursuit of “skinny” might actually be ruining her life.

Determined to break free from the suffocating grip of her disorder and an abusive relationship, Lena embarks on a courageous journey of self-discovery and healing. But the road to recovery is rife with inner demons and past wreckage. To reclaim her identity, Lena must repair a fractured friendship, embrace the support of unexpected allies, and relearn how to trust herself.

"Powerful and poignant, Lovehurts takes an unflinching look at tough topics. Even though your heart may hurt while reading, Barker brings you back with Lena's recovery from self-loathing and rediscovery of self-love."

- Kelly deVos, author of Fat Girl on a Plane and Eat Your Heart Out