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The Lie That Changed Everything is a memoir that blends sharp humour, biting honesty, and painful recollections into a story that feels both chaotic and deeply human. Why was this an important book for you to write?
This book goes right back to the moment that shaped me—a childish lie I swore on my father’s life, followed by his cancer diagnosis. For years, I carried the belief that I had somehow killed him. That single moment of guilt became the thread that ran through my childhood and beyond, influencing how I saw myself, my family, and even my faith.
Writing The Lie That Changed Everything was my way of holding that memory up to the light and finally making sense of it. But it’s not just about trauma—it’s about the absurdity of family life, the strange superstitions that guided us, and the humour that helped me survive. I wanted to show that even in chaos, there’s resilience and laughter, and that being human means carrying contradictions: grief and comedy, shame and love, darkness and light.
How did you decide what to include and leave out in your memoir?
That was one of the most complex parts of the process. Some of my family were opposed to me writing memoirs—both The Hate Game and The Lie That Changed Everything—because it’s difficult to face the dysfunction that runs through our family. But after years of working as a child protection social worker with hundreds of families, I know dysfunction is universal. The difference lies in whether we discuss it or keep it buried.
I chose to write my truth, but I also left things out. Some situations were too private, too sensitive, or simply not mine to tell. Respect was a guiding principle. What’s on the page is my perspective—my memories, my emotions—rather than an exposé. My brother, who is nine years older, helped me fill in gaps from the early years, and between his input and my mother’s knack for remembering everything, I had a wealth of detail to draw from. I’ve been blessed—or cursed—with an elephant’s memory of my own, so much of it was already stored in my brain in glorious technicolour.
In the end, I included what served the story, what illuminated the themes of guilt, resilience, and humour, and what felt authentic to share. A memoir isn’t the whole truth of a life—it’s the truth of a particular journey.
What was the most challenging part of writing your memoir, and what was the most rewarding?
The most challenging part was working through the trauma—breaking the silence I’d carried for decades. I hadn’t told a soul about the grief and guilt that shaped me. Fear and shame kept my story bottled up. Sitting down to write meant opening old wounds, but it also gave me a way to release them.
The most rewarding part has been the liberation that followed. Over the years, I discovered that I could share painful stories and still make people laugh, even in the darkness. Writing allowed me to see my parents in a different light, too. I came to understand how their own trauma defined them, and that gave me compassion instead of just confusion.
Ultimately, the memoir has helped me stop being defined by the same pain. I often say: hurt people hurt people; free people free people. Writing this book was my step into freedom.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
I hope readers come away with the sense that it’s possible to carry both laughter and pain in the same story. Life is rarely one-dimensional—grief can sit beside humour, shame beside love, darkness beside resilience. For a long time, I thought my story was only about guilt and trauma, but writing showed me it was just as much about survival, absurdity, and even joy.
I was thrilled with one review that said, “If you enjoyed Angela’s Ashes, you’ll love The Lie That Changed Everything. My late mum’s favourite book of all time was Angela’s Ashes. To be compared with Frank McCourt’s work was very humbling, and my mum would be so chuffed to hear such a compliment.
If readers realise they’re not alone in their chaos: that silence can be broken, that healing can happen through honesty, and that humour can be a lifeline—then the book has fulfilled its purpose.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The Lie That Changed Everything is the story of a boy who was made to swear a lie on his father’s life, dreamed of his death, and witnessed it happen.
Trew’s story unfolds with unfiltered honesty and laugh-out-loud British humour as he reflects on a childhood marked by chaos, confusion and unexpected moments of grace. Set in the ’60s and ’70s, across RAF bases, hilarious first kisses and a botched “Ten Pound Pom” migration to Australia, the memoir centers on a mum who could scare the devil with her “scriptures” and a war-hero dad, whose reclusiveness left a heartache that humour alone couldn’t fill.
One little rascal. One very big lie. And one funny, unforgettable ride. Perfect for fans of Sedaris, Angela’s Ashes and The Glass Castle; Trew’s tale is as heartbreaking as it is hilarious.
The Lie That Changed Everything: The Memoir of a Little Rascal
From the first page, Gary Trew makes it clear this is no sugarcoated stroll down memory lane. The Lie That Changed Everything is a memoir that blends sharp humor, biting honesty, and painful recollections into a story that feels both chaotic and deeply human. Trew recounts his early years with a mix of wit and grit, pulling readers through family dysfunction, childhood scrapes, and the bruising aftermath of being raised in a world where love often arrived tangled in trauma. It’s a tale of survival told with an irreverent laugh, even as it shines a light on moments of loneliness, rejection, and heartbreak.
I was taken in almost immediately by Trew’s voice. His writing has a rhythm that swings between wild comedy and gut-punch sadness, and that constant shift kept me hooked. Some chapters had me laughing at his absurd family stories, while others had me pausing to let the weight of what he endured sink in. The mix is unusual, but it works. He doesn’t let the pain take over, and he doesn’t let the jokes cheapen the truth either. At times, I found myself frustrated with the sheer cruelty he describes, but then he’d toss in a line of dark humor, and it felt like sitting in a pub listening to a mate tell a story he can only tell because he survived it.
There were moments where the writing felt a little jagged, but that roughness actually added to the authenticity. It made me feel like I was being trusted with unpolished truths rather than a neatly packaged memoir. I also found myself admiring his willingness to talk about shame, resentment, and fear without dressing them up. His honesty struck me as both brave and disarming. The book reminded me that family histories are rarely tidy, and sometimes the best way to survive them is to laugh at the madness and keep moving forward.
By the time I reached the final chapters, I felt both drained and strangely uplifted. This isn’t a book for someone who wants a gentle or inspirational memoir. It’s for people who appreciate raw honesty, gallows humor, and the messy beauty of a life that didn’t follow the script. If you’ve ever grown up feeling like the odd one out, or if you’re drawn to stories that reveal both the scars and the resilience of childhood, this book will resonate.
Pages: 278 | ASIN : B0FGKN1M47
Overcoming Anxiety and Depression; Practical Strategies for Managing Symptoms, Embracing Well-Being, Achieving Long-Term Holistic Health
Lillyin Love’s Overcoming Anxiety and Depression: Practical Strategies for Managing Symptoms, Embracing Well-Being, Achieving Long-Term Holistic Health is a self-help guide designed to empower readers struggling with anxiety and depression. The book combines practical tools, such as breathing techniques and mindfulness practices, with a focus on holistic well-being, covering topics like diet, exercise, and sleep. Love offers strategies to build resilience and manage symptoms effectively while weaving in personal insights and evidence-based therapies.
Lillyin Love’s Overcoming Anxiety and Depression takes you on an emotional journey in the best way possible. It is more than just a guide; it feels like an immersive experience. Love’s writing is like sitting down with a close friend who truly gets what you’re going through. There’s no preaching or pretending here, just honest, empathetic storytelling that makes you feel seen and understood. She has a remarkable gift for transforming heavy topics like depression and anxiety into something relatable and even beautiful.
Through Victoria’s story, she weaves in therapy, mindfulness, and the healing power of nature in a way that feels both natural and profound. Readers walk alongside Victoria, experiencing every challenge and victory. The vivid imagery, like the calming clouds of relaxation and Victoria’s unbreakable spirit, stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page. You’re not just a reader; you’re living the journey alongside her. And here’s the best part, Love doesn’t stop at inspiration. She arms you with practical tools, strategies, and motivation to make meaningful changes in your own life. It’s a rare blend of personal development and captivating storytelling, and it works beautifully. It is worth noting that, at times, the prose becomes a bit poetic, and I feel this approach may not appeal to all readers. However, this is a minor detail in an exceptional and impactful book.
If you’re searching for a book that will challenge you, help you grow, and leave you feeling empowered, this is it. Lillyin Love’s Overcoming Anxiety and Depression is a must-read for anyone facing anxiety, depression, or simply in need of some inspiration.
Pages: 316 | ASIN : B0CY5LR7W1
Changing Your Destiny
Depression follows siblings during the Great Depression who leave home and move to New York City in hopes of a better future. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My inspiration comes from my fascination with history. Ever since I was 12 years old, I have been a history fanatic because it has always been an interesting subject to me. To me, it is nice to learn about how past events can affect our current moment in life. In terms of the Great Depression, I felt that it was always a major stepping stone in American history because of its global impact (Ex: World War 2).
What many people tend to forget or leave unnoticed is how the Great Depression impacted those in the southern states. Agriculture was failing so badly for farmers that they needed help from the government but it still wasn’t enough to save their agriculture business. I’ve been wanting to write a story around this idea for 12 years now, but never got around to it until now.
Wade and Ruby both take different paths once they reach the city, struggling in their own ways to figure out themselves and how to get by. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
I believe the idea for Ruby and Wade was to show everyone how even though we want to achieve the same goal in life, we will still go on a different journey to get there. Sometimes it can be a good path or a dark path.
For Ruby, she was always the tough, strong-minded country girl who never wavered from anything and always protected her little brother. Getting to New York City was her way of finally realizing that there was more to life than farming and Wade. Her main thing was finally growing up and stepping out of her Mississippi bubble.
For Wade, even being the ambitious one and wanting a better life for himself and his sister, he quickly learns that dreaming about something is very different than experiencing something. His dreams meet reality which caused a huge character shift for him.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The most important thing that I want readers to take away from this book is hope. Hope for a better tomorrow. We as humans and society have our troubling, depressing moments in life, so sometimes hope is all we need. Overall, If there is anything you can learn from Wade and Ruby’s journey is that you have the power to take a step towards changing your destiny.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
Yes. We can expect a sequel to Depression. Ruby’s story is not finished just yet. I won’t spoil too much of the next book, but I will say that Ruby will now learn the true meaning of love, loss, and healing.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Set in the rustic backdrop of rural Mississippi, our story follows Wade and Ruby, two siblings
who must grapple with a life of impoverishment. Wade and Ruby are introduced to the harsh
realities of life at a tender age, as they toil on their barren land, trying to salvage their father’s
dream agriculture business.
Their parents, trapped in dead-end jobs, paint a bleak picture of their future.
However, their narratives take a turn when the siblings decide to break free from the chains of
their circumstances. They aspire to redefine their destinies and escape the shackles of their
poverty-stricken existence by moving to the bustling, promise-filled streets of New York City:
“The City of Dreams.”
Their journey to New York City will be a transformative one for the siblings, as they will be
forced to step out of their comfort zone and experience a new life beyond the confines of their
old rural lifestyle.
Once Wade and Ruby reach the promised land, they are ready to embark on the next chapter in
their lives, but it won’t be easy.
To survive, Wade and Ruby must quickly learn to navigate through NYC’s cutthroat environment
while also facing the darkness of their family’s past mistakes in a place that can either catapult
them to their dreams or shatter them entirely.
Immerse yourself in a narrative that pushes the limits of emotion and suspense, as “Depression”
peels back the curtain on the darkness of life itself.
The Smiths’ journey will be filled with a whirlwind of emotions while offering you a compelling
narrative that will linger in your mind long after the final page is turned.
Depression
Depression by Christian Martin is an inspiring novel that captures the stark realities of life during the Great Depression. Wade and Ruby, siblings who grew up in poverty, seize an opportunity to move to New York City in search of a better future. The story not only follows their challenging journey in the metropolis but also delves into the early lives of their parents, Martha and Wyatt, revealing a history marked by highs and lows.
The novel offers a vivid depiction of the hardships faced by families during the Great Depression. Many, like Wade and Ruby’s family, relied on agriculture for survival, but resources were scarce. Wade’s bold decision to leave everything behind for the uncertainties of New York City is a testament to the human desire for change and betterment. Ruby’s character shines brightly with her determination and unwavering focus as she pursues her acting dreams, contrasting with Wade’s darker path. His experiences serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of losing sight of one’s core values. Ruby’s journey is particularly inspiring. Her dedication and resilience exemplify how dreams can be realized through hard work and confidence. Wade’s story, on the other hand, highlights the pitfalls of getting caught up in superficial pursuits. Together, their stories remind readers that, regardless of current struggles, hope and the determination to rewrite one’s story can lead to a better future. Depression is enlightening and motivational.
Depression by Christian Martin is a compelling read that underscores the importance of resilience and hope during tough times. The novel provides valuable lessons and inspiration, making it a worthy addition to any reader’s collection.
Pages: 224
Power of Self-Love
Back to Loving My 1st Wife is a deeply personal and emotionally charged memoir that explores the trials and tribulations of caring for your wife who battles severe mental health issues. What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Great question, thank you for asking.
One of the main ideas I wanted to drive home was the importance of educating oneself when it comes to caring for someone with a serious medical condition. I wanted to stress the significance of proper, extensive research and share the resources I came across. It wasn’t just about understanding the medical jargon; it was about grasping the emotional and psychological impact her illness had on her and our marriage. The more I learned, the better I could empathize with her experiences and anticipate her needs.
Understanding her medications was another critical aspect. I needed to know the purpose of each medication, their side effects, and how they interacted with her mind and body. This knowledge was vital in managing her care and ensured I didn’t endanger her life. It also allowed me to communicate effectively with her doctors, making sure they had all the necessary information to adjust her treatments when needed.
But perhaps most importantly, I wanted to share what I learned with others. I knew there were other husbands and caregivers out there facing similar struggles, feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. By sharing my journey, I hoped to provide some guidance and reassurance. I wanted to let them know that they weren’t alone. I wanted to be a resource for others in similar situations.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
Wow. Another great question but a tough one.
Reliving the delicate and frail nature of my wife’s health was an emotional rollercoaster. Every day, I was reminded of her struggles and the immense toll her illness took on her. But what made it even harder was grappling with my own mental health challenges.
As my mental health began to deteriorate, the flashbacks and the visual and auditory hallucinations I experienced were intense and terrifying. These weren’t just fleeting moments; they were vivid and intrusive, making it hard for me to focus on anything else. The constant worry and stress took a toll on my mental well-being, and for a while, every day felt like a battle just to be present for my wife.
There were days when it felt like the weight of it all was too much to bear. I struggled to maintain my composure, feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility and the fear of what could happen next. It was a dark and lonely place, and I often felt like I was fighting an invisible enemy.
But revisiting and sharing my mental health decline became a crucial part of my journey. By sharing my experiences, I began to process my emotions and understand the impact they had on me. It wasn’t easy, but somehow, I knew it was necessary.
Opening up about my mental health struggles also allowed me to seek the support I needed. I started seeing a psychologist, who helped me develop coping strategies and helped me manage my depression and PTSD. I learned the importance of self-care and making time for myself.
Through it all, I discovered that being present for my wife didn’t mean ignoring my own needs. In fact, taking care of myself was essential to being a better caregiver. By acknowledging my struggles and seeking help, I was able to find a balance that allowed me to support my wife while also taking care of my mental health.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
This is perhaps, my favorite question of all.
As I reflect on my journey as a husband and caregiver, I hope the main takeaway from my story is the importance and power of self-love and unconditional love. These two forms of love have been my anchors, guiding me through the toughest times and helping me find strength I didn’t know I had.
Self-love is something we often overlook, especially when we’re focused on caring for someone else. But I learned that taking care of myself was crucial. It wasn’t about being selfish; it was about ensuring I had the energy and emotional stability to support my wife. Self-love meant recognizing my limits, seeking help when I needed it, and giving myself permission to rest and recharge. It was about treating myself with the same compassion and kindness that I showed my wife.
Unconditional love, on the other hand, was the driving force behind everything I did. It’s the kind of love that remains steadfast through the highs and lows and doesn’t waver when things get tough. This love was my motivation to keep going, even when it felt like everything was falling apart. It gave me the patience to handle difficult days and the courage to face the unknown.
I think we often underestimate the power of love. It can move mountains, mend broken hearts, and potentially save lives. When my wife was at her most vulnerable, it was love that kept us both going. It was love that made the impossible seem possible, that turned despair into hope.
Through this journey, I’ve come to realize that love isn’t just an emotion—it’s a force of nature. It has the power to heal, to inspire, and to transform. When we embrace self-love and unconditional love, we tap into a strength that can carry us through the darkest times.
If there’s one thing I want readers to take away from my story, it’s this: never underestimate the power of love. Whether it’s love for yourself or love for someone else, it can make all the difference. It can be the light in the darkness, the reason to keep going, and the force that helps you overcome any obstacle. So,
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Continuing the saga from the author’s award-winning autobiography, “In Love with My 5 Wives, A Broken Man’s Journey on How to Love His Broken Wife,” this poignant narrative underscores the transformative power of love and support within a marriage. It powerfully demonstrates how the author’s unwavering commitment became both a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of selfless sacrifice, inspiring men with the potential of these elements in a marriage.
The book vividly portrays the author’s emotional and psychological challenges, taking readers on a rollercoaster of emotions. Through a delicate balance of heartfelt storytelling and agonizing reflections, “Back to Loving My 1st Wife” is an inspiring tribute to the strength and enduring impact of a husband’s love.
Back to Loving My 1st Wife: A Husband’s Unconditional Love & The Aftermath of Caregiver Stress
Back to Loving My 1st Wife is a deeply personal and emotionally charged memoir by James Bass that explores the trials and tribulations of caring for his wife, Crystal, who battles severe mental health issues. The narrative is a heartfelt journey through the complexities of mental illness, the challenges of caregiving, and the enduring power of love and resilience.
From the onset, Bass’s writing captivated me with its raw honesty and vulnerability. The detailed accounts of his struggles, from navigating the intricacies of the DSM-5 to confronting the inadequacies of the healthcare system, paint a vivid picture of a man determined to save his wife. His decision to take Crystal home against medical advice, driven by a profound sense of love and duty, is both compelling and inspiring. This section resonated deeply with me, highlighting the often unseen sacrifices made by caregivers. Bass’s reflections on his own mental health struggles added a rich layer of complexity to the memoir. His candid discussions about experiencing PTSD and the emotional turmoil he faced while supporting his wife were particularly poignant. The moments where he describes his flashbacks and the constant battle to maintain composure in the face of his own inner demons were powerfully evocative. These passages underscored the memoir’s theme of resilience and the personal cost of caregiving. One of the most striking aspects of the book is Bass’s exploration of his past and its impact on his present. The memoir delves into his childhood experiences with a violent stepfather and the lasting effects of trauma. This background provided a deeper understanding of his current struggles and motivations, particularly in the chapter where he wrestles with the desire for revenge against those who wronged him and his wife.
Back to Loving My 1st Wife is a powerful testament to the strength of love and the human spirit. James Bass’s journey is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, offering valuable insights into the challenges faced by caregivers and those living with mental illness. This book is highly recommended for anyone seeking to understand the profound impact of mental health issues on individuals and families, and for caregivers who will find solace and solidarity in Bass’s experiences. It is a must-read for those who believe in the transformative power of love and resilience in the face of adversity.
Pages: 131 | ASIN : B0D5NJX8CJ
Talking About Adolescence: Book 1: Anxiety, Depression, and Adolescent Mental Health
Adolescence is a period of immense change, swirling emotions, and the constant push-pull between independence and dependence. It’s no surprise that teens and the adults who love them often find themselves adrift in a sea of uncertainty. Talking About Adolescence: Book 1: Anxiety, Depression, and Adolescent Mental Health, by Eichin Chang-Lim and Lora L. Erickson, serves as a vital compass for navigating this challenging journey.
Chang-Lim and Erickson offer more than just a theoretical exploration of adolescence. They craft a practical guide that tackles the real issues teens face today. Social media addiction, academic pressures, and the ever-present anxieties of growing up are all dissected with clarity and understanding. The authors don’t shy away from difficult topics either. Self-harm, substance abuse, and the often-stigmatized subject of mental illness are presented with sensitivity, focusing on providing resources and fostering help-seeking behavior. What sets this book apart is its accessibility. Gone are the days of dense, jargon-filled self-help books. Chang-Lim and Erickson use clear headings, bullet points, and engaging storytelling to ensure that teenagers can grasp even the most complex concepts. Personal anecdotes pepper the text, allowing teens to connect with the experiences shared and feel less alone in their struggles. This accessibility extends beyond teenagers themselves.
Talking About Adolescence is a valuable resource for parents, educators, and anyone who interacts with young adults. The book equips readers with the knowledge and tools to navigate the often-turbulent waters of adolescence. Parents will gain valuable insights on fostering open communication and recognizing the signs of mental health struggles. Educators will find guidance on creating supportive learning environments that address the emotional well-being of their students.
Talking About Adolescence empowers teenagers to take charge of their emotional health. The book doesn’t offer empty promises of a smooth ride but rather equips them with the tools to weather the storms of adolescence and build a strong foundation for a fulfilling future. Chang-Lim and Erickson have crafted a must-read for anyone invested in the well-being of today’s youth, providing a comprehensive and compassionate guide to understanding and supporting adolescent mental health.
Pages: 371 | ASIN : B0CTKZ3DGH
LITERARY TITAN 