Thank you Netgalley for the ARC of this book. What an interesting read! I am so glad I was chosen to be an early reader for this book. The story although hard to get through at some points was uplifting in a way I did not expect. There are parts about abuse etc in the authors childhood. That was tough but once you got through it was just about strength and resilience. Amazing and highly recommended

This was an interesting read and not something I normally read but I would purchase this book. I would give this a solid 3/5 I appreciate Net galley and the publisher providing me a copy of this to read.

When words fail, colors speak

Since Salek was a child, she possessed an odd ability to see people in colors based on her experience and memories with them as well as the persons’ aura. She describes seeing her father as green and her mother as brown. Some people have colors and others don’t. She explains that she’s not really sure why but it has always been this way.

Chaos in Color is a collection of stories from Salek’s life between 1972 and 2019. Her stories include deep rooted trauma from experiencing abuse, neglect and growing up with a mentally ill parent.

The writing was very simple and uncomplicated with a lot of short, clipped sentences. Despite the content, this made it easy to read but, ultimately, ended up distracting from the storytelling itself and made it difficult for me to ever become fully invested in Salek’s story. However, it is still a beautiful story of love, understanding, and forgiveness. It shows readers the affects of childhood trauma and how, when unaddressed, it can taint adulthood. While it is a rather dark story, Salek finds moments to sneak in bits of light among the chaos.

Thank you to NetGalley for my digital arc. Out now!

"Chaos in Color" by Dr. R. Layla Salek is an incredibly moving and deeply touching memoir. With poetic prose and profound introspection, Salek takes us on a journey through the complexities of her life, where emotions are painted in colors, and forgiveness becomes the beacon of light guiding her path to healing.

From the very beginning, Salek's unique perspective, where people are seen as colors, captivated my imagination. This rare gift of synesthesia adds depth to her storytelling, allowing me to experience her world through a sensory lens. When words fail, as she eloquently puts it, colors speak, and they speak volumes throughout this memoir.

The heart of "Chaos in Color" lies in its honest account of growing up with a mother suffering from untreated bipolar disorder. Each chapter is a poignant portrait of the rollercoaster of emotions, the abuse, neglect, and the trauma Layla endured. The raw vulnerability with which she shares these experiences is heartbreaking and awe-inspiring.
Yet, amidst the darkness, there are moments of love, joy, and resilience. Salek has the ability to find glimmers of light in the midst of chaos. These moments of hope serve as a lifeline, inspiring her to build a family of her own, earn a doctorate in psychology, and dedicate her life to helping children facing mental illness and severe behavioral challenges.

The memoir beautifully traces the complex thread of how personal and familial trauma can seep into adulthood. Salek's journey is a powerful illustration of the lasting impact of childhood experiences on one's life. But more importantly, the transformative power of forgiveness.

As we accompany Layla on her path to forgiveness, we witness the profound healing that can take place when we release the burdens of the past. Her story is a beacon of hope for anyone who has experienced trauma, offering a roadmap to healing and a future illuminated by the warm glow of self-acceptance and love.

In a world often overshadowed by pain and darkness, "Chaos in Color" is a brilliant burst of color and light. It reminds us that even in the face of the most profound challenges, the human heart has the capacity to heal, to forgive, and to shine brightly once more.

"A profoundly moving journey from darkness to light. 'Chaos in Color' reminds us that healing and forgiveness are the true colors of resilience."

"Layla Salek's synesthetic storytelling paints a vivid picture of survival, love, and the power of forgiveness. An unforgettable memoir."

"In 'Chaos in Color,' Salek's brave and raw storytelling speaks to the heart. A beacon of hope for those on a journey of healing."

"A memoir that transcends words, as Layla Salek's colors tell a story of strength, survival, and the ultimate triumph of forgiveness."

"With every stroke of her pen, Layla Salek invites us into a world where trauma becomes a canvas for healing and forgiveness. A must-read."

"Layla Salek's 'Chaos in Color' is a memoir that will touch your heart and inspire your soul."

"A remarkable memoir that paints trauma and forgiveness in the most vibrant hues. Layla Salek's story is a masterpiece of resilience."

"A journey of healing and hope beautifully expressed. 'Chaos in Color' is a memoir that will stay with you long after the final page."

"With the strokes of a synesthetic artist, Layla Salek crafts a memoir that is both raw and poetic. 'Chaos in Color' is a triumph of the human spirit."

"In 'Chaos in Color,' Layla Salek's colors whisper stories of survival, forgiveness, and the beauty of resilience. A memoir that shines bright."

Five stars. I enjoyed getting the glimpses into Salek's life. It had a lot of low points but she overcomes them. Her writing was excellent. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

It's very hard to be critical of a book that is so very personal to the author. I struggled with this as her story seemed to only scratch the surface. Obviously she went through something no child should ever have to suffer through, but I just couldn't connect to everything that was happening. It is all too confusing. Also for someone who ended up achieving her PhD in the field of Psychology, if she went for therapy she never explains it. I don't discount anything that the author went through and what she has accomplished with her life but I'm just not sure this book is anything more than just a journal of her life. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.