Seriously wonderful and seriously underrated I definitely wish this book had found a wider audience but I certainly enjoyed it and highly recommended to anyone who seems interested in the subject when I'm talking to them at the library or the bookstore1

Nothing original here. Having read many memoirs about women and alcoholism I found this memoir had nothing unique to offer. The author is difficult to sympathize with and I found little about this memoir to recommend.

When is enough enough? Despite the claim of many experts that AA is the one thing that works why does the author continue to drink. throughout this book? I read with angst for the author's life as she continued to drink despite innumerable times in rehab, the ER for detox, AA meetings and sessions with a, therapist.. I was stunned that she would continue to make the decision to drink while her world fell apart around her. I was hopeful at each of her attempts to become sober. I was amazed at the friends that stuck with her through her lies.
I have read many books by alcoholics talking abut their recovery, this one stands out !! The result of Barnett's years perfecting her writing skills as a journalist are seen in this book. She knows how to use words to deliver a feeling or a message. She makes observations about the world and people around her that make you feel like you are there with her. I learned a lot about addiction and recovery through Erica Barnett's life story.
I highly recommend this book for anyone dealing with alcohol addiction - the alcoholic and those in his/her life. In fact, I believe this book also has something to offer those suffering with other addictions as well.

#Quitter #NetGalley

One of the most powerful memoirs on addiction, and alcoholism in women in particular, and available treatment modalities. This will be a very important addition to the ongoing exploration of how alcoholism in women is different from men, and the various treatment modalities- AA, CBT, medication, long-term rehab, sober living.

Barnett recounts in excruciating and sometimes chilling detail her decades- long battle with alcohol. Drinking, detox, rehab, repeat. Many times, until finally one stuck. We are privy to detailed info about her childhood and teen years, family life, college years, career choices, and many relationships. The writing is engaging and articulate, and evocative of a sad, struggling woman always trying to "get it right".

The author is introspective and certainly writing this contributed to her ongoing healing. Highly recommended.