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From Trophy Wife to Cosmetic Surgeon
Dr. Victoria Johnson, a renowned plastic surgeon based in Oklahoma, shares her riveting journey in her memoir, From Trophy Wife to Cosmetic Surgeon. With over two decades in the field, Dr. Johnson’s story offers a refreshing perspective on determination, resilience, and the power of self-belief.
Starting as a stay-at-home wife in an oppressive marriage, Victoria yearned for more. An answered prayer catalyzed her decision to pursue medicine. The challenges of juggling motherhood, domestic responsibilities, and academia, especially amidst emotional turbulence, were daunting. Yet, even after initial setbacks in college and a trying divorce, Victoria’s indomitable spirit shone through. She not only excelled in medical school but also carved a niche for herself in the world of cosmetic surgery.
Reading From Trophy Wife to Cosmetic Surgeon is akin to perusing an intimate diary. Dr. Johnson’s candid narration enveloped me in a whirlwind of emotions – from inspiration and warmth to moments of poignant sadness. One particularly striking sentiment she shared was her desire to show her daughter that “a woman could make her own way in this world without a husband.” This memoir brims with powerful messages on independence, self-worth, and standing up against all forms of abuse.
Dr. Johnson’s evocative prose paints a vivid tapestry of her life, effortlessly drawing readers into her experiences. From Trophy Wife to Cosmetic Surgeon isn’t just a recounting of her ascent in the medical realm. It’s an exploration of personal growth, perseverance, and the transformative power of determination.
This memoir stands as a testament to Dr. Victoria Johnson’s exceptional journey, offering readers a deep dive into the life of a remarkable surgeon and an even more impressive human being.
Pages: 125 | ISBN : 978-1-957262-80-2
True Powerful Stories
30 Years Behind Bars: Trials of a Prison Doctor shares your experiences working in the prison system in Nevada, the challenges you faced, and the changes you want to help make happen. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I decided to write my memoir because I wanted the outside world to see the prison system through the eyes of someone oriented and trained to diagnose and heal versus the perspective of a captive or a captor. When I retired from the prison after 30 years, it was because the leadership had swung to what I considered the dark side. The side that was oriented toward punishment vs. programs, harm vs. healing, and disrupting what was working vs. deciding and supporting what worked. When I left, I knew I had to look at my journals plus the writings of the inmates and put together the story of how, what, and why I stayed 30 years in the prison and what I would do next.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
The hardest thing for me to write about was when I was taken hostage in the prison, assaulted, raped, and got out when the SWAT team threw in the concussion grenade and killed the inmate a few feet from me. It was hard because when I asked my husband when I was writing my book how he felt when that hostage event happened he looked at me and said, ’That’s the first time you’ve asked me how I felt.’ It was like getting hit in the gut. That event occurred in 1989, and it was 2017 when I asked him. It made me realize that in 1989 when it happened on October Friday the 13th, I was just focused on going back to work on Monday. I was thinking about my own psyche, not his.
Your experiences are unique and give you a first-hand perspective on the issues involving the correctional institution in the United States. How do you hope your story will help advocate for change within the prison system?
I think that I am that type of unique voice that can tell true powerful stories that affect how the public looks at the prison system. I was naive like a lot of people in the US who don’t have an experience with prison, but I ended up straddling two diametrically different forces in the prison, that of inmates and custody, and survived. People like stories where the underdog succeeds and being a young, blonde female married to a black man and thrown into prison to be a doctor by the National Health Service Corps fits that type of story.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
To be curious about the criminal justice system and any system that makes money out of punishment and harming others vs. investing in prevention and other tactics to keep society safer.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The topics in 30 Years Behind Bars are as diverse as surviving as a woman in a male-dominated hierarchy, overcoming personal trauma, the issues of racism, mental illness, HIV, executions, and cancer. The overriding theme of the memoir is the power of compassion, redemption, education, and the arts.
Her true stories, the adversities she survives, and why she turns it into a calling that lasts 30 years will forever change the way you see prisons. Karen was designated as one of the best in the business by the American Correctional Association and won a ‘Heroes for Humanity Award’ for her work in HIV in the correctional system. Today she advocates for prison reform and inspires individuals and groups to become involved in reforming the prison system.
Stories of Life: The Nature, Formation & Consequences of Character
Davidson’s life unfolds as a captivating journey marked by a tapestry of triumphs and tribulations, all underpinned by an unyielding pursuit of purpose. His early years were shadowed by the painful specter of his parent’s separation, a pivotal experience that etched an enduring mark on his trajectory. As he navigated the tumultuous waters of adolescence, Davidson’s rebellious spirit emerged, driven by his brilliant mind’s unquenchable thirst for something more. In a bold defiance of convention, he even entered into a relationship with the younger sister of his father’s new girlfriend.
However, life often surprises us with unexpected detours. In a remarkable twist of fate, Davidson rediscovered religion, embarking on a transformative odyssey that ultimately led him to serve in a ministry. The tumultuous call of the Vietnam War beckoned, and he answered with unwavering commitment, donning the dual roles of a combat officer and a photographer. These gripping experiences, coupled with his subsequent forays into various career paths, left an indelible imprint on his character.
Within the pages of his compelling book, Davidson shares his distinctive perspective on fundamental facets of existence, diving deep into the complexities of romance, friendships, religion, war, and mental well-being. His narratives, enriched with his trademark humor, resonate profoundly, offering profound insights and invaluable life lessons.
Upon returning to college after the war, Davidson fervently pursued his passion for music, only to confront a world irrevocably altered during his absence. His book serves as a poignant meditation on the enduring impact of war on veterans, many of whom grapple with the daunting challenge of reintegrating into civilian life, contending with the specters of depression, instability, and fractured relationships. Dreams were deferred as these individuals answered the draft call, yet Davidson’s story is a powerful testament that life’s course need not be preordained. Instead, he encourages us to embrace the present moment, finding joy and fulfillment regardless of the circumstances surrounding us.
What distinguishes Davidson is his unwavering independence and steadfast commitment to his beliefs and values. Thought-provoking questions and humor, thoughtfully interwoven throughout the book, beckon readers to reflect upon their own life experiences, forging a deeper connection with the narrative. Reading Davidson Loehr’s Stories of Life was a delightful and enriching experience, and I recommend it to all enthusiasts of autobiographical literature.
Pages: 282 | ISBN : 164990388X
I am an Artist
Thirteen Thousand Lonely Nights is more than just a memoir; it is a journey, one that readers do not just follow you along with but use to start their own journey of transformation. Why was this an important book for you to write?
It’s important that we share our experience with the world. There is always a lesson you could learn from someone’s life story. Every person’s life is a great book waiting to be written. I know that my experience is unique and that is why it would be unforgivable if I kept this story to myself. Thirteen Thousand Lonely Nights is my legacy. When I was writing it I wasn’t thinking about all the people this book has the potential to help. I was being a bit selfish – I just wanted to unburden myself. I’ve been thinking about writing this book for a few years now but I didn’t have an ending. I thought I would write it at the end of my life. But as you know Destiny provided me with the perfect ending. And that’s what I wrote first – the last chapter. If you have a great ending, you have a great book. I am grateful to Destiny.
Your book’s description states, “It is not just a memoir. This is a dissection of a soul, a confession, a performance, a manifesto, a love letter.” Can you elaborate on how you came up with this description and what emotions it stirs within yourself?
I don’t really think about this as being a “book”. It’s more than that. I simply wanted to convey that. I never thought of myself as a writer. I am an artist. I think that when you read Thirteen Thousand you experience the same emotions you would feel when looking at an interesting painting, or listening to a song, or watching a movie. I am going to record the audio version of the book myself one day and people will be able to understand what I mean when I say that it’s a performance. I think the audio book would be something similar to a radio play. I think that this book could be turned into a great stage play. The description of the book makes me feel very vulnerable because it is essentially a description of my life.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
The hardest thing to write was the series of chapters titled Strange Encounters of the Unfortunate Kind. These chapters describe my tragic personal life. It was very painful reliving all that. Also, I am a very private person and I don’t like to discuss my personal life with people. That’s what made it even more painful. But the book wouldn’t be complete without these chapters. The reader wouldn’t be able to understand me. So I wrote that series first. I wanted to get it out of the way. Then I wrote the rest of the book.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
It’s not possible for me to think of only one thing. But this is a story about fear and overcoming that fear. I hope that the readers feel a little bit more fearless after reading the book. More empowered. And also it is very important to me that they learn what the term “relationship virgin” means. There is so little information about it out there and no one is talking about it. I want to normalize the idea of being a relationship virgin.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | YouTube
Was his fear realised?
Did he escape that country?
This is an extraordinary story filled with life lessons.
It is not just a memoir. This is a dissection of a soul, a confession, a performance, a manifesto, a love letter.
30 Years Behind Bars, Trials of a Prison Doctor
30 Years Behind Bars is an evocative memoir of Dr. Karen Gedney, the pioneering female doctor in a Nevada prison. The memoir captures Karen’s journey, from her childhood aspirations of healing to navigating the complex realities of an overwhelmingly male prison population.
The narrative intricately weaves Dr. Karen’s interactions with her patients, highlighting her unwavering commitment and compassion, even in the face of unimaginable challenges. One striking story revolves around Moth, an inmate grappling with profound emotional scars. Despite Karen’s earnest attempts to extend emotional support, a heart-wrenching turn of events culminates in her being held hostage.
Beyond this central story, the memoir delves into broader systemic issues, such as drug addiction, prison hierarchies, and the often-overlooked health challenges inmates face, including cancer and HIV. Dr. Karen emerges as a beacon of hope, advocating for improved medical treatments, emphasizing emotional wellness, and amplifying the voices of those behind bars. Her resilience is further underscored by the unwavering support of her husband, Coley, who not only stands by her but also contributes by educating inmates.
Dr. Karen’s story is a testament to the belief that compassion and perseverance can make a difference even in the most challenging environments. While many might have chosen to retreat following such a traumatic experience, Karen’s dedication to her cause remained unshaken.
The memoir challenges readers to reflect on our perceptions of criminals. It beckons us to consider the intricate tapestry of circumstances—be it childhood trauma, addiction, or false implications—that might land someone behind bars. It raises the pertinent question: Should society merely incarcerate and forget, or should there be avenues for rehabilitation and redemption?
30 Years Behind Bars is more than just a memoir—it’s a powerful commentary on the human spirit, resilience, and the potential for transformation. This book promises an engaging and enlightening read for those who appreciate thought-provoking narratives that challenge societal norms. I recommend this memoir for its raw, candid, and impactful storytelling.
Pages: 360 | ASIN : B07B3LLWRQ
Thirteen Thousand Lonely Nights
Situated in a time and place where prejudice and conventional norms are widespread, a millennial grappled with a persistent fear —an apprehension of spending thirty-five years in solitude. Is it possible to be lonely for that long? As one delves into the pages of this intriguing narrative, an extraordinary tale unfolds, exploring the intricacies of existence and unfiltered vulnerability that eventually leads to self-discovery and resilience.
Thirteen Thousand Lonely Nights, by Kendall Kenneth Folkhardt, is an intense proclamation of deeply held beliefs, as well as an intimately written love letter to the essence of life itself. Beyond the boundaries of a standard memoir, this narrative stands as a complex prism, refracting life’s invaluable lessons through a myriad of hues and creating an enduring impact on those who partake in this transformative journey. From the start of the book, the narrator immediately warns its readers that all that unfolds in the narrative is written based on how it was experienced —raw, unapologetic, and shameless. It gives an all-encompassing tale of the narrator’s life, from the actions that were done to the thoughts embedded and the emotions associated with the experience.
The memoir weaves the thread of the narrator’s life, stitching together a narrative that resonates with the reader’s own journey. The book invites introspection, urging readers to reflect on their own beliefs, choices, and experiences, inviting a touching connection between the text and their lives. Folkhardt’s story navigates the complicated pathways of human emotion, painting a vivid canvas where joy, sorrow, triumph, and despair intertwine in a symphony that mirrors the complex nature of life itself. The narrative is a testament to the human capacity to withstand trials and a beautiful letter to the human resolve that allows us to emerge stronger, wiser, and more resilient. With unflinching candor, the author captures the essence of being human —the moments of fragility that shape us and the fortitude that propels us forward.
With honest takes on life and its different aspects, Thirteen Thousand Lonely Nights will surely transcend the pages and stick itself into the reader’s mind. I highly recommend this to anyone undergoing any roadblocks in their life, whether in family, love, career, or the like. Let this book serve as a reminder that there are moments when we will be tested, and it is up to us if we wish to turn it into a life sentence or a means to push ourselves forward.
Pages: 316 | ASIN : B0C6RL4YDH
All That This House Has to Offer
In All That This House Has To Offer, Betty R. Wall elegantly crafts a tapestry of tales that delve into the nuances of family, heritage, and the beauty of simpler times. This collection is more than just stories; it’s a homage to life’s authentic moments, with the house itself emerging as an unforgettable character, rich with history and sentiment.
Wall’s narratives are exquisitely penned, exhibiting thoughtful attention to detail and a deep grasp of the human journey. Her prose dances between poignant evocations and deep emotional connections, inviting readers to delve into an intimate bond with the tales’ characters and their sagas.
The house stands as a poignant centerpiece in these stories, witnessing family generations and the cascading memories they create. Wall’s dexterity in lending the house its distinct voice is commendable, making it a silent yet resonant beacon that bridges the past and present, emphasizing the significance of upholding familial legacies and cherished recollections.
All That This House Has To Offer is not just a book; it’s an experience. It reverberates with warmth and introspection, appealing to readers across generations. Betty R. Wall’s narrative brilliance is evident as she masterfully navigates timeless themes of kinship, legacy, and life’s inherent pleasures. This collection comes with the highest recommendation. Whether seeking a reminiscent journey or a reaffirmation of life’s most cherished values, this book stands as a testament to the enduring power of family ties and the sanctity of memories forged within our homes.
Pages: 128 | ISBN : 1639889876
Fifty Shades of Gray Matter
Imagine if Dr. Derek Shepherd and Dr. Gregory House had a baby. Dr. Teresella Gondolo would be the result. In her hallowed space, tales of perplexing symptoms and peculiar behaviors unfold like the pages of an intricate novel, chronicling days, months, and years of daunting medical mysteries. She welcomes the unusual like House and handles each case with the expertise of Shepherd. In a mesmerizing dance between patients and their families, an unassuming office becomes a sanctuary for the extraordinary.
She narrates stories of patients who visit her office with worry lines etched on their faces and sadness in their eyes. A virtuoso of the medical realm, Dr. Gondolo is audience to a wide range of human conditions. She bravely encounters a number of neurological conditions and allows the reader into her office as she treats each one of them.
Dr. Gondolo tells her stories with the flair of a pen-driven Picasso. Her passion for her work is obvious in her writing. Bound within the pages of Fifty Shades of Gray Matter are segments each different from the other. These sections give voice to narratives that resonate with strength and simplicity, occasionally revealing the tender hues of her own life’s canvas. She is not afraid to let a little bit of herself peer through the lines.
This book is the perfect treat for lovers of medical shows. It is the literary equivalent of Grey’s Anatomy woven with House MD episodes. Like a medical MacGyver, she accurately highlights the urgency of her cases and the technical artistry it takes to diagnose and treat before the patient runs out of time or deteriorates beyond the point of no return. Fifty Shades of Gray Matter is much more than an interesting read–it is an experience. Dr. Gondolo’s grasp of imagery and the writing craft creates mental images that put the reader right in the room with her looking into the eyes of her patients or leafing through medical files.
Dr. Gondolo understands that the magic of clarity holds the key to reader engagement. Just as she peers into a patient’s eyes and deciphers their ailment, she gazes into her readers’ minds and tailors her prose with precision. My only wish is that the sketches at the end of the chapters would come at the beginning instead. Otherwise, she has written a wonderful collection of stories.
As readers take in her last commentary on mortality, there will be a resounding verdict: Fifty Shades of Gray Matter is an eloquent tapestry of wisdom and wonder, masterfully woven by an insightful physician who intertwines her patients’ chronicles with the threads of her own narrative. Dr. Teresella Gondolo has taken what could be a boring series of M&M conferences and bound them into playful yet serious bits of intriguing stories. She does not mean to entertain, but she will keep you glued to the pages to the very end.
Pages: 335 | ASIN : B0C3WH6GJJ
LITERARY TITAN 