Blog Archives
Forks & Knives: A Marriage at the Crossroads of Addiction and Codependency
Mimi Wahlfeldt’s Forks and Knives: A Marriage at the Crossroads of Addiction and Codependency is a poignant and powerful fictional narrative rooted in real-life events. The novel offers an intimate glimpse into the turmoil of a marriage engulfed by the struggles of addiction, painting a vivid and heartrending picture of what it means to love and live in the shadow of alcoholism. The story centers on Kat Torrington, a woman who uncovers her husband Eric’s secret battle with alcoholism just as she prepares to welcome their first child. This discovery places Kat at a critical juncture—a decision point that many readers may find relatable: should she stay and fight for her marriage or walk away from it?
Wahlfeldt’s choice to tell the story through Kat’s first-person perspective is one of the novel’s most compelling elements. This narrative approach allows readers to experience the emotional depth of Kat’s journey firsthand. Her fears, hopes, and inner conflicts are laid bare, creating a raw and unfiltered portrayal of a life entwined with addiction. The narrative’s strength lies in its authenticity. Wahlfeldt does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of addiction and its ripple effects on relationships and families. The novel delves into the cyclical nature of denial, relapse, and recovery with a stark honesty that is both challenging and enlightening.
The metaphor of “forks and knives” serves as a powerful symbol throughout the novel, representing the difficult choices Kat faces and the often sharp, painful consequences of those decisions. For readers who have faced similar struggles, Forks and Knives offers a sense of validation and shared experience.
Wahlfeldt’s Forks & Knives goes beyond mere storytelling; it offers a form of closure to those who have questioned whether they gave their all in the most challenging moments of their lives. Whether you are familiar with the battles of addiction or simply seeking a compelling, emotionally resonant read, Forks and Knives is a novel that will stay with you long after you have turned the last page.
Pages: 293 | ASIN : B0CZ18RM29
The Only Thing Stopping You is YOU!
The Long Way Around details your experiences growing up in a Mormon household marked by abuse and addiction and the challenges you have overcome over the course of your life. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Writing requires a clear mind, so I would spend some time meditating before I wrote. Since I was in my late 60’s when I began writing, I had to regress decades to remember some of the events and specifics, and more importantly the feelings associated with the events. I had shared some of my stories briefly with a friend or two and they would say, “You need to write about that”, so I did.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
As I began writing, I decided that I should focus on the positive nature and write a motivational and inspirational piece that might help others with the challenges of life. As I have said, it took me four years and a bucket of tears to write this book.It was basically facing and dealing with the depression I had experienced over the years.
What is a misconception you believe many people have about growing up in a Mormon household?
Tara Westover wrote “Educated”, a memoir. Whe shares her Mormon story as well. I think that there is a lot of abusive households in every religion and Mormonism is no exception. Typically when I think of organized religion I think of the Sunday teachings of forgiveness and brotherly love that seems only to apply to Sunday. Monday through Saturday those philosophies are forgotten, as well as the ten commandments.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from The Long Way Around?
You can become the person you want to be, just as I have. The only thing stopping you is YOU!
Bruce Lee said the most important thing in life is to know yourself. Meditation is critical to do that!
Author Links: Facebook | X | Website
The Long Way Around
The Long Way Around, authored by Leon Mecham, is a deeply moving memoir that delves into the author’s experiences growing up as a Mormon, grappling with poverty, and navigating the complexities of a challenging family life. Through vivid storytelling, Mecham takes readers on a journey through his tumultuous childhood, marked by abuse from drug-addicted parents and the harsh realities of a loveless household. At the tender age of 18, he was sent away to support his family, yet he remained steadfast and true to himself, overcoming the adversities that life threw his way.
Mecham’s narrative style is both engaging and evocative, drawing readers into the vivid landscapes of his early life. His ability to describe intricate situations and daily struggles with graphic detail creates a profound connection with the audience, allowing them to experience his hardships and triumphs firsthand. The memoir is set against the backdrop of farm life, highlighting the strong influence of the Mormon religion and the rural environment on his upbringing.
The content of The Long Way Around is nothing short of inspirational. Mecham’s life story is a testament to resilience and determination. His accounts of enduring poverty, dealing with his parents’ addictions, and the absence of affection offer readers a powerful role model who exemplifies staying true to oneself despite overwhelming obstacles.
This memoir is particularly impactful for those who may be facing similar struggles, providing not only a sense of companionship but also a beacon of hope and optimism. Mecham’s courage in sharing his story is commendable, and his survival tale is one from which we can all draw valuable lessons. The Long Way Around is a remarkable narrative of perseverance that leaves a lasting impression on its readers.
Pages: 276 | ISBN : 978-1667869292
Reality Check: Making the Best of the Situation
Reality Check, by Mike Sorrentino, known to many as “The Situation” from MTV’s Jersey Shore, is an intimate and raw memoir that chronicles his tumultuous journey from stardom to rock bottom and ultimately to redemption. The book details Sorrentino’s struggles with addiction, legal battles, and personal growth, offering readers a candid look at the highs and lows of his life. Written with the help of Andy Symonds, Sorrentino’s story is not just about overcoming addiction but also about finding inner peace and purpose.
One of the most compelling aspects of Reality Check is its unflinching honesty. Sorrentino does not shy away from revealing the darkest moments of his life, including his dependency on prescription drugs and his legal troubles. He recounts how his addiction spiraled out of control, affecting his career and personal relationships. For instance, he describes the moment he contemplated trying heroin, a significant low point that underscores the severity of his addiction. This level of transparency makes his eventual recovery all the more inspiring.
The writing is engaging and conversational, making it feel as though Sorrentino is speaking directly to the reader. This approach helps to humanize him, transforming “The Situation” from a reality TV persona into a relatable individual facing real-world challenges. The narrative is peppered with moments of humor and humility, providing a balanced portrayal of Sorrentino’s personality. His transformation from a self-destructive celebrity to a dedicated advocate for sobriety is compelling and offers hope to those facing similar struggles.
A notable strength of the book is its focus on the practical steps Sorrentino took to achieve and maintain sobriety. Sorrentino also shares valuable lessons from his experiences, such as the significance of accountability and the power of making positive choices daily. His advice on “running the tape” to foresee the consequences of one’s actions is particularly insightful and applicable beyond the realm of addiction recovery.
Reality Check is an inspiring and heartfelt memoir that offers a powerful message of resilience and redemption. Sorrentino’s journey is a testament to the fact that it is never too late to turn one’s life around. This book is a must-read for fans of Jersey Shore, individuals struggling with addiction, and anyone in need of a story about personal growth and transformation. Through his candid storytelling, Sorrentino provides not only an inside look at his life but also a roadmap for others seeking to overcome their own challenges.
Pages: 243 | ASIN : B0CKY7LV6W
Break the Chains
In your memoir Trust Yourself to Be All In: Safe to Love and Let Go, readers will find a deeply personal and emotional account of how divorce and personal loss have affected your life. What motivated you to share your story with the world?
I believe we experience loss and other pain in life in order to heal and then help others. We aren’t supposed to keep it for ourselves. I know there are many people suffering the pain of emotional abandonment, grief, and trauma, and I have found healing and a solution that not only sets me free but gives my life purpose. I’m compelled to share this healing with others. It’s as simple as that…something inside pushes me to help others.
I greatly appreciate the candid and transparent nature of the story you have shared. Would you be able to shed some light on the most arduous aspect of the writing process?
Personally, rewriting Chapter 1, “The Catalyst,” about my brother’s overdose, our childhood memories (some pleasant, others, not so much), my anger about his addiction and death, and eventually how his death set me free, was very difficult. I would find myself in disbelief that I was crying, again. It was also challenging to see the truth of my story. Seeing the reality of some painful events, in black and white, was emotionally draining. In general, I didn’t find the writing process arduous. It was a period of divine inspiration and came quite naturally to me. The hardest part was deciding which parts to keep and which parts to toss. I felt much of what was removed was important, but I had to make very honest decisions about if it added or detracted from the main message and the power of the book. It was a humbling process.
What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were younger that could have helped you deal with personal loss and grow from these challenges?
You are good, worthy, and loved no matter what. Know that other people’s actions and behaviors are not about you, and you are not responsible for anyone else’s happiness.
I understand that your story is important to you and you want your readers to connect with it. Can you please help me understand what message you want your readers to take away from your story?
Healing your personal pain holds the power to heal the collective. It’s the only power we truly have. Finding comfort in all of your emotions by healing your grief and trauma, building an unshakable foundation of self-worth and self-love, and trusting yourself to show up for yourself in good times and “bad” creates an open heart of unconditional love and compassion, for yourself and others. It’s time to break the chains of generational family dysfunction, address your pain, and do the work to heal. Your life, and the lives of others, depend on it.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Website
Everyone leaves you or hurts you. This false myth of generational family dysfunction, compounded through trauma, appeared frighteningly true to Amanda the moment her brother overdosed and died. Devastated, she shined up the emotional armor she wore to protect herself from pain and soldiered on. But a decade of self-reflection and personal growth in 12-step recovery could not save her from herself. Attempting to destroy everything around her, including her troubled marriage, she experienced a spiritual awakening that radically transformed deeply engrained lies about love, loss, and connection. Lies she didn’t even know she believed.
Trust Yourself to Be All In: Safe to Love and Let Go is a pragmatic yet soulful inspirational memoir delivering uncompromising self-love that heals deep wounds. Amanda’s revealing, thought-provoking narrative will guide you to find comfort in your emotions and meaning in your suffering, while organically bridging an inseverable, trustworthy connection with self, others, and the universe.
Trust Yourself to Be All In: Safe to Love and Let Go
The narrative of Amanda’s life, as depicted in this book, offers a raw and poignant exploration of the impact of divorce and personal loss. Amanda’s journey begins in the wake of her parents’ separation, primarily due to her father’s affair, a situation that significantly alters her familial landscape. The book delves into her deep connection with her brother, Jeremy, who, despite his own struggles with addiction, serves as a crucial pillar of support until his untimely death. Tragically, Amanda faces a series of losses, including the passing of five close individuals within a span of three years.
This book candidly portrays her struggle with alcohol addiction as a coping mechanism and how these experiences leave indelible marks on her life. Particularly moving is how Amanda cherishes memories, such as a shared love for the band Pearl Jam, highlighting the bittersweet nature of remembrance. Amanda’s story is not just about loss and grief but also about resilience and healing. The narrative follows her as she confronts and manages an anxiety disorder, navigates the near breakdown of her marriage, and embarks on a journey toward recovery. The decision to relocate and the challenges of adapting to a new environment without familiar support systems are also explored, showcasing her strength and adaptability. The author’s candidness and emotional depth make this memoir particularly engaging. Amanda’s experiences are conveyed with a sincerity that invites empathy and reflection.
Trust Yourself to Be All In: Safe to Love and Let Go is not just a chronicle of hardships; it’s a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to endure and grow. This book is a compelling read for those interested in memoirs that offer a deeply personal and touching narrative filled with genuine emotion and the triumphs of overcoming life’s adversities.
Pages: 193 | ASIN : B0C4M137BJ
How I Became the Real-Life Nurse Jackie
In Lyndsey Kay’s epistolary novel, How I Became the Real-Life Nurse Jackie, readers are invited to traverse the multifaceted journey of a nurse, presented through a series of deeply personal diary entries. The protagonist’s complex upbringing and challenges pave the way for a narrative that is both raw and resonant.
The novel commences with the musings of a nurse who exudes bitterness before diving into the chronicle that marks the inception of her life. Spanning her years as a schoolgirl and a teenager, readers are provided an unfiltered window into her evolving thoughts, experiences, motivations, and passions. The book metamorphoses into an intimate diary, illustrating the passage of time through shifts in thinking patterns and a mosaic of human emotions.
The chosen format for the narrative is remarkably fitting. Diary entries facilitate a closer bond between the reader and the protagonist, enhancing empathy toward her struggles. This style of narration crafts an environment that makes it easy to acknowledge the hurdles she faces. The reader embarks on a profound journey of self-discovery, resilience, and adaptation, guided by a character who plans, recalibrates, and faces life’s many obstacles head-on.
Kay does not shy away from delving into serious and somber themes such as unplanned pregnancies, unstable relationships and marriages, homelessness, and a growing addiction. The narrative beautifully captures the essence of a human being touching the depths of existence and the sparse glimmers of hope to climb out.
How I Became the Real-Life Nurse Jackie succeeds in portraying a stark reality that resonates with many. Despite the dark nature of the topics explored, the prose is accessible and inviting, compelling the reader to immerse themselves in understanding a life path not often articulated. By the end of this stirring read, one is left with a deeper sense of empathy and a greater appreciation for the shared human experience.
This novel is more than just a tale of trials and tribulations; it’s a celebration of resilience and an examination of the human condition. Engaging, heartfelt, and filled with wisdom, How I Became the Real-Life Nurse Jackie stands as a beacon for all those seeking to understand life’s complexities through the eyes of someone who has truly lived them.
Pages: 153 | ASIN : B0C9VXSH4L
Women Going Sober: An Empowerment Guide for Women Going Alcohol-Free and Embracing Being a Non-Drinker
In her evocative self-help book “Women Going Sober,” Boadie Moore astutely addresses the often overlooked subject of women’s challenging journey towards alcoholism recovery. Drawing from her own battles and those of the women around her, Moore, with a spirit of gratitude to the supportive women in her life, pens a powerful narrative intended to assist those in search of a lifeline in their fight against addiction. As the inaugural book of the Sisterhood series, “Women Going Sober” navigates a range of weighty topics, including the potential roots of addiction in childhood attachment issues, the recognition of addiction as a disease, and the pivotal moment of change when one is ready to embrace it.
This book is not just a blend of theoretical information; it also provides practical methodologies to triumph over addiction and navigate discussions around this topic with loved ones. The primary objective of Moore’s work is to illuminate the incredible inner strength and resilience required to undergo such a transformative journey and to inspire others to step towards a brighter, sober future.
Moore’s candid style of writing is what sets “Women Going Sober” apart. With her ability to integrate personal narratives with well-researched insights, she achieves an optimal balance between recounting her own experiences and providing invaluable guidance. Moore’s adept crafting makes the book feel like a casual yet profound conversation over iced coffee, a trait that amplifies the readers’ personal connection to the narrative.
A striking aspect of the book is the spotlight it places on societal pressures endured by alcoholics, especially women, in their recovery process. Moore provocatively questions, “What if that same society that enables your drinking turns its back on you and judges you harshly when you cannot stop?” This crucial conversation is often overlooked, despite the blatant societal mistreatment of addicts and the intensified judgment faced by women battling addiction. The World Health Organization defines addiction as a chronic disease, yet the societal perception of the condition remains unsympathetic. Moore’s book takes a brave step in opening up this much-needed discourse.
While the book primarily focuses on women overcoming alcoholism, its scope and implications are far-reaching. Any individual battling addiction or disease can find solace in the universal message of solidarity: no one is alone in their struggles, and daily choices pave the way to healing and progress. Thus, I recommend “Women Going Sober” not only to those striving for sobriety or overall healing but also to mental health workers and practitioners. It provides a profound understanding of the individual experiences of those combatting addiction.
I commend the brave women who have overcome their demons to find sobriety, as well as those embarking on their initial steps to conquer alcoholism or any form of addiction. This book serves as a beacon of hope in their journey.
Pages: 182 | ASIN: B0BT4W4LF6
LITERARY TITAN 