This story begins in 2013 when Jennifer's mother receives the devastating diagnosis of dementia. Despite the difficult and distant relationship between them, Jennifer decides to take care of her mother, thus facing not only the numerous challenges posed by the disease but also the feelings of resentment, fear, and anger that stir within her. The narrative alternates between past and present, offering a thoughtful and clear exploration of the mother-daughter relationship.

The themes explored here range from family dynamics to premature grief, and consequently, the frantic search for peace through acceptance. The writing is sincere and engaging, allowing the reader to immerse themselves in the protagonist's experience and reflections. The ability to describe the daily struggles of caring for a loved one with dementia provides an authentic and valuable perspective for anyone dealing with a similar situation. It is an immersive, meaningful read that touches the reader’s feelings and emotions, offering a well-rounded testimony of resilience and a daughter’s love.

I requested access to this book thinking it was a self-help type book, so I was really happy it included being wrapped into a memoir type genre book ( memoirs being a favorite genre of mine ! Self-help books, absolutely not ).

Like the author, I manage my aging mother's care. I'll leave out the details on the numerous corollaries between my story & the author's but there were many, making this a rich, rewarding read for me at this time. I felt as though I had a comrade on this journey, like I had made a new best friend with whom I could share and commiserate.

Like the author, I am working with a therapist to deal with the weight and the particular issues I deal with as I manage my mother's daily care.
Like the author, my mother definitively and without awareness favors my ( out of state ) brother, disregarding me and overtly puts him on a pedestal even though all her care falls to me everyday.

The author writes "I gained so much from it ( caring for an aging mother ) that I cannot imagine my life without it ". I Perhaps one day I can see the forest for the trees, see what I gained from caring for my mother even to a small degree the author came to appreciate after her mother passed away.

Thank you NetGalley and Mount Cooper Publishing for the ARC. These opinions are independent and my own opinions.