Lovehurts, Genalea Barker
Lovehurts, Genalea Barker
List: $15.99 | Sale: $11.20
Club: $7.99

Lovehurts

Author: Genalea Barker

Narrator: Emily Shaver

Unabridged: 7 hr 20 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Published: 11/14/2025


Synopsis

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

Reviews

Goodreads review by Dee on May 30, 2024

This book made my past teenaged self feel so much less alone. Growing up back in the 90s, just like today, unrealistic standards about weight and beauty negatively affected a lot of girls, myself included, especially because the 'heroin chic’ and ‘supermodel’ looks were so ‘in.’ The main character,......more

Goodreads review by Kourtney on May 04, 2024

This was written in such a way that I felt that Lena’s thoughts and feelings were my own. The chaos and self doubt. The love and pain. I was internally screaming and asking for her to ask for help, but at the same time I completely understood why she wasn’t. Genalea has an ability to write in a way......more

Goodreads review by ❤️Becky on July 15, 2024

This was beautifully written, and I couldn't put down. I felt so many emotions and could relate to Lena and her struggles. She's smart and thoughtful. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.......more

Goodreads review by Tara on May 19, 2024

Genalea Barker’s “Love Hurts” is beautifully written story that feels like a memoir. It will touch your heart and make you laugh and cry. I hope this book will open up the discussion for teens to talk about their issues and ask for help. Amazing how the author captures so many emotions in one story.......more

Goodreads review by Dana on April 29, 2024

Once again, Genelea Barker has left me reeling. She has an innate talent to crest characters that are so real, trying to navigate relatable problems in a world that mirrors our own. Annalena’s journey through an ED and an abusive relationship reminded me of my own and I felt all her pain. This story......more