I didn't really feel as though this book delved deeply enough into how the author coped with the issues with her son, and how he coped himself. There seemed to be gaps in the storyline, and it felt as though Zach went very quickly from being completely able to care for himsef, go to college etc. to being incredibly unwell. I felt there were a few things missing. I'm not sure this would be a memoir that other parents would relate to, unfortunately.

This was a hard-hitting and eye opening memoir detailing the author’s journey with her son’s psychosis. As it’s the mother’s story, we get to see a unique look through a parent’s eyes as they watch their child battling something they can do little about. Well worth the read, especially if you’re looking to learn more about psychosis and its effect on a sufferer's loved ones. Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher, for a chance to read and review this book.

The download date was unfortunately missed, I would be happy to re-review if it became available again. I have awarded stars for the book cover and description as they both appeal to me. I would be more than happy to re-read and review if a download becomes available. If you would like me to re-review please feel free to contact me at thesecretbookreview@gmail.com or via social media The_secret_bookreview (Instagram) or Secret_bookblog (Twitter). Thank you.

This was an interesting read. It deals with issues around mental health and also how it can affect those around the person too and how it can be difficult to get the help needed

This book is both brilliant and heartbreaking. Mental health support is exposed and a mothers tenacity is just outstanding. Highly recommended.

Our children will always be our children no matter their age and/or level of independence. But when something goes wrong, the heartbreak is endless. The fight of wanting what's best for your child when you don't know what exactly is the best for them; the fight between doing everything for them and letting them be their own person; the fight between being your own self and being their mother.
I don't think this can be put into words in all it's hellish reality, but Tanya Frank comes close. Her sheer will power and determinations is almost unbelievable. How she could fight through everything that life has sent their way and still survive is beyond me. The amount of unconditional love she poured into her son's journey is awe inspiring. Zach's story also shades light on how little we know of mental health, of the inner works of the brain. It shows how sometimes by "helping" we do more damage. It is beyond hard to find a balance that will allow all those involved to keep their agency.

Thank you Tanya for sharing your story!

An incredibly moving and desperately sad memoir written by a mother watching her beloved son lose touch with himself and with reality. Based initially in LA, trying to educate herself on Zach's diagnosis proves to be a quagmire of conflicting evidence and all consuming frustration and sadness. When healthcare professionals can't agree on a diagnosis it is incredibly hard to know how to best support him, and when the medication has side effects that steal any life force, it's almost impossible to know what the best way forward is.

Written with candour, the author documents a period of time that sees her lose her own joy and hope; sees her relationship fracture and her guilt consume her.

Moving back to the UK is a harsh reminder of the lack of provision for someone struggling to engage because of their illness. Endless bureaucracy that sends them in circles, and a pandemic that sees things come to a halt.

This is a heavy read, but an important one that will I'm sure help others relate and feel less alone.

Such a well crafted book, compelling enough to pull you through and very quick read. I enjoyed it so much from the first page till the end.

The author has written a difficult memoir regarding her son, Zachary, who at 19 years old had his first psychotic episode.

The book goes through the different therapies, medications and alternative medicines that they try through their journey. Zach doesn’t want to be on the medications due to the terrible side effects and who can blame him.

This is hard to read and shows just how difficult it is to get the help needed when a loved one has a mental health condition. It also shows just how hard it is on the rest of the family.

My thanks to 4th Estate, William Collins and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.

This book really struck a chord with me. I felt immersed in the authors story and my heart ached for her son.

An absolutely heartbreaking tale of mental illness and the black hole that you get sucked into when you are unfortunate enough to be just above crisis point.

A definite recommendation from me.

Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.

This is a mother’s struggle to care for her son with mental health problems. From the first day she discovered his paranoia, when he was convinced the telephone was bugged, Tan has fought to get the best treatment for Zach. Through the years the search for a positive diagnosis and treatment has taken its toll, putting a strain on both relationships and family.

This is not an enjoyable read, but nevertheless a compelling one. The love and dedication that Tan has towards Zach is incredible and the way in which they are both let down across two countries is heartbreaking. A must read for anyone in this situation and for those powers that be that make the rules.

A tough read.

Thank you NetGalley.

Unlike anything I have ever read before. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book.

Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC. This is a searingly honest, sometimes difficult to read account of severe mental illness and the toll it takes on individuals and families, but it's ultimately hopeful. I'd recommend it to those struggling with severe mental illness and those seeking to care for them.