"“It’s rare to find a therapist and a novelist in the same person. Kris Hammoud is exactly that. She weaves her medical knowledge of countless patient-journeys into a spell-binding story of self-discovery that creates an echo-chamber for self-reflection and revelation. Every page is an opportunity for the reader to reflect on the influences in one’s own life as a pathway to explain the present. The story of Anna is the story of us all if we are willing to be honest with ourselves and open to answers.” – John Patton, author Brainless Health & CEO of ProVention Health Foundation

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I found this book very helpful and so will many others. Sometimes, we get caught up in the past that we fail to see that we are just repeating the same cycle. Sometimes, we realize and try to correct our mistakes. Some are lucky and get to create a new path for themselves, while some just accept defeat and turn to alcohol and medication to help mask the pain and cope with depression. I love how this book addresses important themes like abuse, depression, submissiveness, and much more. People in society today hide behind fake smiles and social media happiness. Meanwhile, in reality they're going through a lot. Most times, we do not choose the way our past plays out, but we sure do have a choice to determine how we go about with our future. This book uses Kathy and Anna to explain this. Kathy was a victim of her own past and allowed it to shape her future. Anna seems to be making the same mistake, but now several factors can help her create a new path, but only if she acknowledges the warning signs and makes a conscious decision not to make the same mistakes her mother made. 

There was absolutely nothing I disliked about this book. It was very enlightening, and I enjoyed reading every second of it. At first, I was angry with how Anna handled the situations with Dave. It was when I stopped looking at the situation from my own perspective and placed myself in her shoes that I began to understand every choice and decision she made. This story also helps people deal with addiction and depression. From the story, you'll be able to discern the pros and cons of taking drugs and alcohol. And, I bet you'd realize that there really are no pros to using them. The book had major and minor characters that were well-developed. My favorite character in the book is Jeff. I admire his charm and selflessness.

The book was exceptionally and professionally edited. I didn't find any errors while reading it. The book also had the elements of surprise and suspense. The author's writing style is engaging. I'm therefore rating this book 4 out of 4 stars. I recommend this book to people who have been through a traumatic past, and those battling with depression and addiction.