Emma Thomas

Pretty, but deeply-wounded seventeen year-old Emma Thomas is the main character, principal protagonist, and narrator of the novel “Barely Breathing” by Rebecca Donovan. Emma’s entire life has been one of violence, heartache, and torture, culminating in her murder by her psychotic aunt, Carol, and her later resuscitation in the hospital. Emma thereafter moves in with her best friend, Sara McKinely, and her family, who welcome Emma with open arms. Emma takes comfort in her boyfriend, Evan, who deeply cares for and loves Emma.

Emma, however, suffers from tormenting nightmares of her death. She decides to move in with her mother, Rachel, for the last six months of her senior year in order to reconnect. But her mother is a drunk, a drug-addict, and emotionally abusive. Her much-younger boyfriend, Jonathon, connects with Emma, for he also has his past demons to contend with. But when Jonathon convinces...