This heartfelt and practical guide chronicles one woman’s post-cancer journey, from reconstructive surgery to opting for an aesthetic flat closure after complications. With honesty, humour, and vulnerability, Liza L. Hernandez offers a deeply personal perspective on a life-changing decision, providing inspiration and guidance for others navigating similar choices.

Accuracy: ★★★★★
Hernandez’s book is both informative and relatable, blending medical research with her lived experience. The inclusion of practical tips and emotional reflections adds depth and ensures readers gain a holistic understanding of what it means to live with, and then without, breast implants. Her transparency about the physical and emotional challenges is both refreshing and reassuring, making the guide an invaluable resource.

Perspective: ★★★★★
The author’s perspective is incredibly empowering. By exploring her own doubts and decisions, she encourages readers to embrace their individuality and make choices that align with their values and desires. Hernandez’s tone is compassionate, creating a sense of camaraderie and support, which is particularly meaningful for readers facing similar crossroads.

Relevance: ★★★★★
This book is a crucial addition to the ongoing dialogue about life after breast cancer. With the growing number of women considering alternatives to reconstruction, Hernandez’s story offers a much-needed exploration of aesthetic flat closure, a choice often overlooked in mainstream conversations. For anyone seeking insight or validation in their decision-making, this book is both timely and essential.

Engagement: ★★★★★
The narrative is deeply engaging, balancing emotional depth with moments of humour and lightness. Hernandez’s anecdotes, paired with actionable advice, keep readers invested throughout. Her use of personal quotes and reflections makes the book feel approachable and genuine.

Readability: ★★★★★
The writing style is clear and conversational, making complex or sensitive topics easy to understand. Hernandez explains medical terms and processes in a way that is accessible without feeling oversimplified. The balance between personal stories and practical advice keeps the book well-paced and enjoyable.

Enjoyment: ★★★★★
This is a book that will resonate with readers on many levels, offering comfort, encouragement, and even laughter. Hernandez’s candidness about her journey, coupled with her emphasis on self-discovery and empowerment, makes it a rewarding read for anyone—whether they’ve faced breast cancer or are simply drawn to stories of resilience and reinvention.


‘To Boob, Or Not to Boob’ is an inspiring and invaluable resource for anyone exploring post-cancer body options. Liza L. Hernandez’s blend of humour, honesty, and actionable advice makes this book a comforting guide for those navigating the aftermath of breast cancer. By sharing her journey, she not only empowers others to embrace their choices but also celebrates the strength found in self-acceptance and reinvention.

Excellent.

This was quick, easy reading. A concise, no-nonsense approach.

Contains many family memories; not just about her cancer experiences. The fears and emotions. Honest too.

She tells of looking after and caring for both parents during their illnesses, whilst also having her children, then her own health issues to deal with on top of all that. This quickly became very readable. I wasn't sure at first, but had to read on once I'd started.

This was in 2004. So, 20 years ago-and she's pulled through, and survived many years. This book will give help and hope to many sufferers of the same.

At first this seemed like another breast cancer memoir, but it's so much more. What a story.

Well-written, easy and quick to read. A few moments of humour too, so it's not all gloomy. Well presented, and incredibly accurate.

Contains tips for others going through the same; product info, and helpful and useful photos too.

This book starts with her mammogram, and she didn't have a good experience. Of course, that's not the same for everyone, and I'm anxious that it doesn't put people off-as it's a vital test, and can save lives. I had heard many bad stories from friends which made me delay getting my first mammogram, and I can honestly say I was OK. But I know everyone's different, and she tells it like it is, doesn't sugarcoat.

After that initial "Oh, I'm not sure...", this book continued wonderfully, and I read it in under 24 hours.

The book provides a lighthearted and insightful perspective on coping with changes in a woman's body following breast cancer or severe injuries, making it relatable and empowering.

Inspiring! Life threw a lot at Liza Hernandez at this point in her life and, while she may have been terrified and overwhelmed, she handled it all with grace and determination. Her positive outlook and no-nonsense attitude helped show that it’s possible (although still difficult) to take all this on and come out better in the end. I liked her insights into why she made the decisions that she did and the product recommendations for those who might face a similar journey. Highly recommended!

To Boob or Not to Boob - Liza L. Hernandez

This is the memoir of a woman’s personal journey in life from a diagnosis of breast cancer, to double mastectomy, to implants, and eventual removal of the implants in a flat closure procedure.

I enjoyed learning a bit about Liza’s history, family, fears, and joys. Her insight in dealing with her cancer as well as her tips and recommendations for those undergoing a similar journey is helpful as well as hopeful. This book would be a wonderful resource for anyone undergoing a similar experience.

thank you to netgalley, liza l hernandez, and victory editing netgalley co-op for the copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
i really enjoyed this read and while i haven’t had cancer, i have been a caretaker for someone with cancer and myself have chronic illness, i was able to make parallels as i read. the book is very digestible, even when tackling incredibly difficult subjects.
i especially enjoyed listening to liza’s ingenuity in adapting and the items they used to adapt and care for themselves. i think this portion of the book would be incredibly helpful for others with breast cancer- though i felt myself inspired to take better care of my needs and seek more options in my care as well. liza shows everything that helped her feel better and the places she shops. you can tell it was done with a lot of research, ingenuity and self care/empowerment.
the book also includes photos that show her journey and show examples or photos that added to the story.
i enjoyed hearing the stories of their dogs, though they were bittersweet- tw for pet loss for those who may struggle with that subject. the subject is also taken with the same positivity, love and poise that the rest of the book embodies.
this book takes on a positivity without being toxically so, and is honest while expressing hope and strength.
highly recommend this one!