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Girl, Groomed

Carol Odell’s Girl, Groomed is a raw and unflinching memoir that traces her childhood experiences of grooming and abuse at a horse stable, the deep love she had for horses, and the long, painful process of understanding how that past shaped her adult life and relationships. Odell moves between her girlhood innocence, where horses offered her comfort and belonging, and the unsettling reality of how her trust was exploited. As she grows into adulthood, she reckons with the trauma, explores how it bled into her marriage and identity, and shows how therapy, reflection, and courage helped her reframe her story.

The writing is vivid, sometimes almost cinematic, and the way Odell describes both the beauty of horses and the darkness of abuse made me feel pulled in two directions at once. There were moments where I found myself smiling at her descriptions of childhood wonder, then seconds later reeling from the cruelty and manipulation woven into those same memories. I admired her honesty, but I also found myself feeling frustrated on her behalf, angry at how easily her vulnerability was taken advantage of, and heartbroken that the safe space she longed for was the same place that hurt her.

What impressed me most was how Odell refuses to simplify her story. She doesn’t paint herself as a perfect victim. She shows her younger self caught in admiration for her abuser, which was difficult to read but also profoundly true. That honesty made the book feel even more important because it illustrates the messy, confusing ways trauma imprints on us. I appreciated the way she linked her past to her marriage struggles later in life, and I found myself pausing often to reflect on how our old, unexamined wounds shape the way we love, fight, and cope.

I would recommend this book to readers who want a deeply personal exploration of trauma and survival, but also to anyone interested in the psychology of how abuse and grooming take root. It’s not an easy read, but it’s an essential one. I think therapists, survivors, and anyone willing to confront hard truths will find it valuable. It left me unsettled and hopeful at the same time, which to me is the mark of a powerful memoir.

Pages: 222 | ASIN : B0D96PPVDQ

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You Are Not Alone, You Are Not To Blame

Katherine Tsiampas Author Interview

The Lion & The Narcissist leads readers through a gripping personal journey of emotional manipulation, psychological trauma, spiritual resilience, and, ultimately, self-liberation. Why was this an important book for you to write?

This book was definitely more of a calling than a plan.  I can’t say that I  planned to write the book.  I literally just began writing.  It began with journaling just to make sense of “my narcissist’s lies”.  When people say the lies are crazy making they are absolutely, 100%, unequivocally correct. Narcissists engage in the highest level of deception which robs their victims of reality.  The first part of my life I had to regain control of was my very sense of reality and the only way to do that was by writing everything down.   For me personally, writing also became an integral part of managing my medical treatments and navigating the legal system. Few people know that it was through researching and writing I was equipping myself to be my own advocate in systems poorly equipped to help victims of narcissistic abuse. No one was able to help me understand what I had just experienced and few people were interested in holding my abuser accountable. Everyone just wanted to give me a band-aid and tell me “I would be ok”.  Most of all writing this book supported my healing by helping me identify and label what I had experienced and why. Researching miraculously led me to resources that could actually help me.   I also believe writing this book gave me the courage to hold my abuser accountable without backing down in fear.  The more I learned about the tactics narcissists use and the effects this nefarious form of abuse had on innocent people the more passionate I became about making some kind of change.  These wicked individuals must be held accountable and people had to be warned that they exist. The best part was it did not end there for me.  I was compelled to seek deeper meaning in it all and that is what led me to the most important book ever written…..the Bible.  I am certain the entire process was God’s call on my life to seek Him, find Him and surrender to Him.  While my experience is something I don’t wish anyone to endure, I would not trade in the person I have become having survived, trusting the Lord was beside me every step of the way.  I would never trade my relationship with Jesus Christ for anything in the world.  Writing my book led me to Him and has given me a testimony to teach about His goodness and mercy.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

This is a really hard question to answer.  Hindsight, reading my book years after writing it, I think the most important idea to share is just how difficult it is for a victim of narcissistic abuse to explain it to others. Narcissists are so incredibly cunning, malicious and depraved that our very human nature makes it hard to believe they exist.  The reality is not just that narcissists not only exist but they are a real manifestation of evil masquerading themselves as good and ordinary people.  Even I learned over the years we can’t tell people what a narcissist or narcissistic abuse is, we have to show them so they can identify it for what it is.  Equip them with hard truths.  By nature I don’t think people want to believe evil exists in our own relationships and/or families. By avoiding the truth we open ourselves up to dangers allowing it to destroy us.  I think the most important idea I could have shared by writing the book is the effects such behaviors can have on our lives and warn others of the detriment allowing and tolerating abuse is to our lives: physically, mentally and spiritually.

What is a common misconception you feel people have about Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)?

I have two very strong opinions on this.  The number one misconception I feel some people have about narcissistic personality disorder is that the narcissist will or can change. This is probably the most dangerous misconception out there.  As a Christian, this is difficult to reconcile because we know God can do all things and His arm is not too short to save anyone.  The understanding I have come to believe is narcissists are reprobate minds.  Hallmark traits of NPD are pride, arrogance and the sense of entitlement traits that point to self adoration in the narcissist rather than a love for God.  NPDs also lack self-reflection and accountability, making them resistant to both repentance and calling on God to save them.  Statiscally, narcissists do not change.  Believing they will only prolong the abuse the victim does not deserve.  This misconception can cost someone their life.  The second misconception I feel about NPD is labeling it a mental illness.  NPD is a personality disorder which differs greatly from mental illnesses that can be treated.  I believe personality disorders are a spiritual disease, a state of the person’s soul.   A reprobate mind is a person who chooses to live in perpetual sin having little, if any desire to please God. Narcissists, like psychopaths and sociopaths live corrupt and extremely selfish lives.  Sin and corruption have become justified and acceptable in people who have NPD.  Sadly, reprobate minds are people whom God ultimately rejects and has left to their own devices. Standing firm in hard truths God has revealed in His word, it is my opinion NPD is a clear manifestation of evil in our world.

What is one thing that you hope readers take away from your book?

I hope that after reading my book readers can walk away with a clear understanding of what narcissistic personality disorder is, identify a toxic relationship and understand the dangers of being in relationships with narcissists.  Ideally I hope that educating others on the topic prevents people from entering into relationships with dangerous personalities by helping them identify red flags and run.,,,,,fast and far! Sadly there are many who are currently in relationships with people who are causing them harm.  For those people I hope my book helps them to understand they are not alone, they are not to blame and they are not helpless.  There is no shame having fallen for someone who didn’t reveal their true nature in the beginning.  That is what predators do. There is no shame in not having seen the red flags.  There is no shame for having tolerated some of the things we have tolerated out of the kindness in our own hearts. But now is the time for you, the reader, to Get Up and say enough is enough. It is time for you to Stand Up knowing that you are a son or daughter of the King who created you to be loved.  His promises are true and He will take you by the hand and never stop fighting for you.  It is not going to be easy but  you will come to the other side.

I felt something gentle but mighty touch my shoulder…then a voice like lightning said, “Get Up!” It is not Katherine Tsiampas’ education that makes her an expert in narcissistic abuse, but her survival of it. She was injured, weak, afraid, until a pivotal moment when she made the choice to “get up” and cross over to the other side of suffering. Overcoming the trauma and torment loving a narcissist brought forth a faith and inner strength Katherine didn’t know she possessed. It transformed her. Katherine’s decision to stand up, reclaim her power, and find her identity and purpose in God will give many the wisdom and strength to get up, too.
Awarded a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP), Katherine has been an advanced practiced nurse teaching in higher education for over 20 years. She holds multiple degrees, honors and certifications. In addition to earning a Master’s of Degree (MSN) in nursing focused on nursing education and doctorate in leadership and policy change, she is recognized as a neuro-linguistic programming practitioner by the International Guild for Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Her passion is to educate those tormented by abuse. She helps others better understand narcissism, how victims are targeted and snared in a den of deception, then trapped in a cycle of narcissistic abuse. Her story helps victims navigate recovery in a society still ill-equipped to help victims of this complex and poorly understood type of abuse.
Using storytelling, the protagonist in her memoirs transforms from victim to triumphant. The layers used in this thrilling allegorical literary work are woven with scientific evidence based research about narcissistic personality disorder(NPD) and the effects of its abuse on the mind, body and soul.
By targeting victims, narcissists guarantee success by taking advantage of people they view as having weak boundaries. Mixed with nonfiction, the metaphorical use of the lion paints a vivid picture of the dynamics between narcissists and empathic or codependent victims. After reading this book, it becomes clear how strategies such as love bombing, hoovering, gaslighting, projection, blame shifting, and ghosting are used to create a trauma bond. Providing definitions for terms which are personified in a raw, real life depiction of how tactics can diminish one’s self-esteem, self-worth, and self-identity readers will become well-informed. The tactics and their effects are creatively exposed in this well- articulated testimony.
Using informative writing grounded in science the book provides a clear picture of the progression and escalation of abuse. Strategies used to gain and maintain control are organized using the stages of the narcissistic cycle of abuse. Readers can identify clearly how they were targeted and groomed within phases of idealization, devaluation and discard illustrated in this book. Katherine explains characteristics of and goes deeper to validate how narcissists practice master manipulation in order weaken and destabilize their victims and reveals how they can gain control.
Narcissistic abuse uses all forms of intimate partner abuse including emotional, psychological, sexual, spiritual and physical abuse. Unrecognized it can completely break the human spirit and in some cases escalate into domestic violence. Through this provocative and personal testimony the dangers of exploitative relationships are confirmed.
The declaration of truths, overcoming the trauma, developing a strong identity and inner strength found in Christ will inspire any reader. Katherine’s journey can teach victims there is a way out of the darkness in the lion’s den.“In the midst of my awakening, I recognized that I was fighting with the devil himself, but that I was never alone. Although I was a victim largely of my own choices, the Holy Spirit within me, revealed there was a battle coming against me and I was going to win.” -K. Tsiampas

The Lion and the Narcissist

The Lion & The Narcissist is a piercing and powerful memoir by Katherine Tsiampas that details her experience in a relationship with a man she later identifies as a narcissist. Drawing rich metaphors between narcissistic abuse and the predatory nature of lions, Tsiampas leads readers through a gripping personal journey of emotional manipulation, psychological trauma, spiritual resilience, and, ultimately, self-liberation. With a voice both fierce and vulnerable, she unpacks the psychological patterns of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) and how these patterns infiltrated every corner of her life, faith, and identity.

Tsiampas compares narcissists to lions—majestic on the outside, deadly beneath the surface. The way she sets the tone early makes it clear this isn’t just about psychology—it’s about survival. I couldn’t stop reading. The writing is intense and deeply poetic. Sometimes, it felt like I was holding my breath.

Tsiampas’s honesty is brutal in the best way. When she shared the moment she realized she was prey—emotionally vulnerable after a breakup, working tirelessly, raising two kids, and still blind to the danger—I felt that deep in my gut. “To the narcissist, all this…made me the prey he perceived would never fight back”​. Her self-awareness, especially in hindsight, is admirable. She doesn’t sugarcoat anything, even her own compliance. I found myself nodding, sometimes crying, especially when she describes how easily charm, flattery, and attention can seduce someone who just wants to be seen and loved.

What stayed with me the most was how she frames narcissistic abuse as not only psychological warfare but also a spiritual battle. Her faith is woven throughout the story—not preachy, but personal and grounding. She talks about God as her anchor, the Holy Spirit guiding her, and the voice that told her to “Get up.” There’s something powerful in watching someone reclaim not just their sense of self but their sacred worth. I needed that reminder. Her description of the discard phase, when the narcissist leaves his victim completely shattered, is absolutely heartbreaking and terrifying.

The Lion & The Narcissist is a wake-up call and a guide for anyone who’s ever found themselves lost in a relationship that felt too good to be true and then turned into a nightmare. I would recommend this book to women who are healing from emotional abuse, to therapists seeking firsthand insight, and to anyone who needs to remember that they are not alone. It’s especially powerful for women of faith who have been taught to endure silently. Katherine Tsiampas reminds us that God doesn’t ask us to stay with predators. He asks us to get up. And fight. And survive.

Pages: 270 | ASIN : B0961NPXZ7

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Psychological Layers

Karen Martin Author Interview

In Delphi, a woman struggling to find balance between the past and present embarks on a journey of self-discovery, seeking the wisdom of an oracle. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

The seed was planted in the first novel Dancing the Labyrinth when one of the Minoan characters was bitten by serpents and saw her future as establishing the Oracle for Gaea at Delphi (500 years before Apollo). This is interwoven with a contemporary narrative. I wanted to use the main character Cressida as a sounding board for society’s expectations of women to fit patriarchal culture, especially in the entrenched institutions of marriage and finance. I didn’t anticipate deep diving into Cressida’s backstory and work through generational trauma. That evolved through the writing process. It makes sense though, that in making major decisions, we need to know ourselves – what is right for us. Cressida comes from a dysfunctional family and has no confidence in her choices, so she sets off to Delphi to seek the Oracle’s advice because of what is written on the temple of Apollo ‘Know thyself.’ She is unaware she is an integral part of a major plot being played out within a mythological timeframe. Inspiration for this component came from writing in situ. I have a felt-sense of place and when added to my research, compelling stories find their way to my page.

What is it that draws you to mythology?

When I was young, I was drawn to Greek mythology rather than fairy tales. I once read that there are only seven original stories and in all my creative work I have sought the corresponding Greek myth – whether or not I have incorporated it into the narrative. As an adult, I am interested in the psychological layers they offer, but I am also learning other versions of the same myths from archaeological research that do not necessarily confer with the known version, i.e. the voice of the occupier/conqueror. For example, the story of the Minotaur comes from Minoan history, not Greek/Mycenean. There is a stark difference between their accounts.

What was your writing process to ensure you captured the essence of the characters, specifically Cressida?

Because Delphi is a sequel, and Cressida was already my protagonist, she has a definitive voice. Four years on she is older and more confident with life, but she still responds to triggers – her fight/flight tendencies. She is in a process of healing and so to authenticate her life experiences I researched and read about healing from childhood wounds and trauma. I enjoy writing her and getting caught up with her impatience and frustrations. She is deeply flawed but (I think) likable.

I believe everything we create contains personal elements. My characters have specific attributes I recognise that can be explored in the context of plot to express their own nuances and idiosyncrasies, whether subtly or exaggerated. Many of the places, and some of the experiences mirror my own, but from another perspective that enhance my understanding but also adds an honesty to the work.

What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?

I am currently working on a travel memoir of when I lived in Crete for a year and wrote Dancing the Labyrinth. As I’d like to get Delphi translated into Greek and do a book tour through Greece next year, I’m planning for the memoir to be ready for release in 2026.

Recently, I released a quirky humorous nonfiction collation of illustrated memes and quotes called The Little Book of Red Flags. I’m planning to follow this up with The Little Book of Apologies (for those who find it so hard to say sorry).

Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Facebook | X (Twitter) | YouTube | Instagram | Threads | Amazon

Four years after Cressida sought refuge in a timeless Minoan cave, the appearance of an unknown aunt spirals her into chaos. Childhood wounds resurface, compelling Cressida toward a crucial decision. Will she trade her newfound life for love and financial security? Inspired by dreams, she travels to Delphi seeking counsel from the Oracle, unaware of her pivotal role to save humanity from catastrophic misery.

With a rich tapestry of snakes and prophetic visions, and a captivating heroine in search of her own truth, Delphi offers a spellbinding exploration of the human spirit. Prepare to be swept away by a story that seamlessly weaves the threads of ancient lore with a young woman’s unyielding quest for understanding.

Delphi straddles history and mythology. Sequel to Dancing the Labyrinth, it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone novel. It is the third book in the thematic series Women Unveiled, which blends myth, history and imagination in the telling of (almost true) stories.

Delphi

In Delphi, by Karen Martin, the reader is invited into a world where the boundaries between myth and reality blur as the protagonist, Cressida, embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Torn between her love for Gorgios and her reluctance to accept his marriage proposal, she grapples with a profound dilemma: how to shape her future while navigating the complexities of her present, including a secret pregnancy that weighs heavily on her mind. To find clarity, Cressida seeks out the wisdom of an oracle, hoping for a vision of her destiny and a deeper understanding of herself. Her path takes her to Delphi, where ancient stories come alive, supernatural forces intervene, and myths unravel in unexpected ways.

Martin masterfully intertwines history and fantasy, creating a narrative rich in detail and imagination. The novel’s vibrant depictions of gods and legendary creatures, from tales of Artemis and Apollo to encounters with the Minoans and matriarchal societies, captivate the reader. These elements are woven seamlessly into Cressida’s transformative journey, where even familiar myths, like the tale of the Minotaur and the labyrinth, are imbued with new meaning. The labyrinth serves as a compelling metaphor for the shadows we all carry, embodying both light and darkness, and it enriches the book’s thematic depth. The fantastical elements shine brilliantly. Each mythical encounter and supernatural event is vividly described, capturing the wonder of ancient legends and drawing in lovers of fantasy. Particularly striking is Cressida’s meeting with the oracle, a pivotal moment that illuminates her internal struggles and propels her forward on her quest for truth.

The narrative skillfully portrays Cressida’s turmoil and introspection, presenting her inner voice with an authenticity that resonates, even though it is written in the third person. Her fears and hopes are palpable, and her contemplation of how her choices impact those around her, especially concerning her pregnancy and her feelings for Gorgios, is compelling and deeply relatable.

I do feel that the storyline feels like it has many characters and events introduced in rapid succession. This lack of narrative focus occasionally detracts from the central arc of Cressida’s emotional and spiritual growth. For example, I believe that the relationship between Cressida and Aunt Margaret, which holds significant potential, could have benefited from more development.

Delphi is undeniably a unique and magical book. Its lush and engaging characters, along with its intricate tapestry of myths and legends, paint a world that fantasy enthusiasts will find hard to resist. The novel’s rich imagery and imaginative storytelling transport readers into a realm of sirens, oracles, and Greek deities. Karen Martin’s Delphi is a celebration of myth and self-discovery, offering a rewarding experience filled with beauty, complexity, and wonder.

Pages: 261 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DHQLMXTB

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Freeing Teresa: A True Story about My Sister and Me (Audiobook)

What would you do to defend your youngest sister or brother? This was the case with Teresa Heartchild and her loved ones. The fate of Teresa, a woman with Down Syndrome, is at the heart of her sister Franke James’ moving audiobook Freeing Teresa: A True Story About My Sister and Me. The rights of the disabled, the fight to preserve personal freedoms, and James’ determination to provide a fulfilling life are at the core of this exceptional memoir.

As an audiobook, Freeing Teresa ranks among the most unique in that it utilizes multiple narrators throughout. With a full cast of 13 actors, two of whom have Down Syndrome, this audiobook offers listeners an authentic experience worthy of multiple listens. Having a different narrator for each family member creates smooth transitions within dialogues and allows readers to more readily visualize scenes. James’ cast of actors helps emphasize some of the most harrowing times in the family’s life, breathing life into a story much less impactful with a single narrator.

Franke James does what many people are afraid to do–she stands strong in the face of every obstacle thrown her way as she tries desperately to do what is best for both her sister and her elderly father. When their futures hang in the balance and her siblings’ ideas of long-term care don’t meet Teresa’s needs and their parents’ wishes, she uses every tool at her disposal to ensure Teresa’s life will be filled with opportunity and growth for years to come.

The experience James shares in her incredibly detailed and heartfelt memoir is one from which countless families can benefit. Her focus on personal freedoms is a theme throughout the audiobook, and she makes it clear to listeners that they have options when it comes to the care of their loved ones. I more than appreciate James’ openness and her willingness to share the most vulnerable and painful time in her life with readers.

I am giving Freeing Teresa: A True Story About My Sister and Me, by Franke James, Teresa Heartchild, and Billiam James, a resounding 5 out of 5 stars. Readers looking for a touching memoir that offers invaluable advice on seeking long-term care and planning appropriately for the future will be hard-pressed to find a more lovingly written and thoughtful resource. I highly recommend this work of heart to anyone with a parent, sibling, or child who will ultimately face a portion of their lifetime without their family by their side.

Pages: 346 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CJWXVFP3

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True Mental Illness

Suzanne Groves Author Interview

You’ll See is a raw and poignant memoir that delves into your experiences with narcissistic abuse, survival, and the arduous journey to understanding. What inspired you to share your story with others?

I began writing my book shortly after both of my parents died – within two months of one another. I was trying to make sense of all I had experienced with my father and, to a degree, my mother, and the only way I could do it was to pour everything onto paper…I guess, it was my way of trying to determine if I was really crazy, or if these things really happened to me. With every remembered vignette I described, I began to see a pattern that my therapist helped me understand was my father’s narcissistic personality disorder. I grew up thinking everything was my fault, that nothing I did would ever be good enough…it was an emotional torture chamber that still haunts me. I realized if this was my experience, surely, it was other people’s experience, too…and I decided that giving voice to one’s truth is one of the bravest things a person can do. I want to normalize discussions about narcissistic abuse, among other things, so those of us who were manipulated into believing false narratives can actually rehabilitate ourselves and recover…eventually.

I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?

Thank you…I decided if I was going to tell my story, I was going to tell ALL of it. As an adult with a grown child, I ached for “Little Suzanne”…the innocent, curious, sweet-natured child who only wanted to be Daddy’s girl and was rebuffed at every turn. The hardest part of writing this memoir was first, coming directly to terms with how my father put himself and his desires above his own family, and second, recounting the agonizing years of watching my mother succumb to Alzheimer’s disease while my father continued his dalliances.

What is a common misconception you feel people have about living with narcissistic abuse and getting away from it?

First, narcissistic abuse is just that: abuse, and it definitely leaves deep emotional scars that can affect every other relationship in the victim’s life. Second, the narcissist’s family becomes another tool for the narcissist to display their superiority to the outside world…our job is to make the narcissist look good, no matter what. That means you don’t air the family’s dirty laundry, as it were…and because the narcissist insists their way is the only way, you become conditioned to that…to protect the family image. To do anything else and you’d be labeled as “crazy” or “melodramatic.” I believe there’s a semblance of Stockholm Syndrome at work, too…you feel you must align yourself to your captors as a form of survival. Finally, it’s easy for people to say, “Establish some boundaries! Cut off the relationship!” and the like, but it’s not that easy because especially with a narcissistic parent, you’ve been conditioned your whole life to believe YOU have the problem, and YOU are at fault. It took a really long time (and years of therapy) for me to see that I never deserved any of the treatment I received and that I was dealing with someone with a true mental illness.

What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?

I think they key takeaway I tried to impart in my memoir is that narcissistic abuse is real AND it’s insidious…the narcissist will make you think YOU’RE the one with the problem and over time, you become scarred with feelings of inadequacy, worthlessness, and longing for a relationship you’ll never be able to fix. Being able to give voice to these feelings, telling your stories to someone you trust, is absolutely the first step to taking charge of your life and defining boundaries to protect yourself. Resilience comes at a high price because it means you had to suffer along the way, but it also means you survived it, and that’s what counts.

Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon

My fifty-six years with my father were characterized by longing. If I could only meet his standards, ephemeral though they were, I would feel I belonged. That I was safe. That I was protected from external threats.

Learning that the threats came from within-that the threats were in the form of his personality disorder and addiction-came long after I had been damaged. Make no mistake-I never lacked for food, clothing, or shelter. We took family vacations. I received a wonderful education. I enjoyed numerous achievements, academically, professionally, and personally.

To an outsider, my life probably looked normal, even privileged.

The truth is the permanent scars resulting from narcissistic abuse are every bit as devastating and traumatic as those borne from physical and sexual abuse. Narcissistic abuse is insidious and challenging to survive. And the effects can outlive the abuser, almost in perpetuity. This is my story… possibly yours.

You’ll See: A Story of Narcissistic Abuse, Survival, and My Journey to Understand

You’ll See, by Suzanne Groves, is a raw and poignant memoir that delves into the author’s experiences with narcissistic abuse, survival, and the arduous journey to understanding. Centered around Groves’ tumultuous relationship with her narcissistic and addict father, the book intricately explores the psychological and emotional toll of growing up in an environment dominated by manipulation and emotional neglect. Through vivid storytelling and heartfelt reflections, Groves chronicles her path to healing and self-discovery, ultimately finding strength and resilience amidst her struggles.

One of the most striking aspects is Groves’ unflinching honesty. She doesn’t shy away from the painful realities of her past, instead laying them bare for the reader to see. This candid approach not only lends authenticity to her narrative but also fosters a deep connection with the reader. For instance, the chapter where she describes her father’s callous disregard for her mother’s wellbeing while she lay incapacitated is both heartbreaking and infuriating. Groves’ ability to convey the depth of her pain and confusion during these moments is profoundly moving.

Groves’ writing style is engaging and accessible, making the book hard to put down despite its heavy subject matter. She balances the recounting of traumatic events with moments of introspection and even humor, providing a well-rounded narrative that feels both genuine and relatable. Her reflection on her mother’s tough love approach, especially in the scene where she is nearly sent away as a child, showcases her ability to understand and convey complex emotional dynamics. This nuanced perspective adds depth to her storytelling, making it clear that she has spent a considerable amount of time processing and understanding her experiences. The epilogue, where Groves gets a tattoo in honor of her mother’s loving words, offers a glimpse of this resolution.

You’ll See is a powerful memoir that will resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced narcissistic abuse or emotional trauma. Suzanne Groves’ raw and honest storytelling not only sheds light on the painful realities of living with a narcissistic parent but also highlights the incredible resilience of the human spirit. This book is particularly suited for readers who appreciate candid memoirs and those seeking solace and understanding from similar experiences. Groves’ journey is a testament to the strength required to confront one’s past and the possibility of finding hope and healing on the other side.

Pages: 373 | ASIN : B0CSDZBTK5

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