The Rules of Survival

Nikki uses her sexuality to manipulate men, and there is some mild romantic tension.

Graphic descriptions of child abuse, including a mother choking and beating her children.

Moderate use of strong language and various expletives throughout the dialogue.

Occasional casual use of God's name in exclamations or moments of high stress.

The mother and her boyfriends consume alcohol, often contributing to the volatile environment.

The story focuses on the severe psychological trauma and PTSD resulting from chronic child abuse.

The mother's erratic, predatory behavior creates a constant, intense atmosphere of fear and dread.

There are no occult or supernatural elements in this realistic fiction novel.

There are no prominent LGBTQ+ characters or themes in this story.

Focuses on survival and human resilience in a broken world without a spiritual framework.

The book does not target or mock Christianity or the church.

Matthew shows immense sacrificial bravery to protect his younger sisters from their mother.

The story is secular and does not feature prayer or reliance on God.

The bond between the three siblings is a powerful example of protective, loyal love.

The focus is on safety and justice rather than reconciliation with the abuser.