I bought this book not quite knowing what to expect but trauma and abuse were spoken about in a very sensitive way. Parts made me smile and nod my head thinking Ah yes I have felt those feelings. I used to be a midwife and therefore could understand totally the profound effect losing a child can have on someone. Personally the last chapters were my favourite talking about links between childhood trauma and physical illness. As part of a PhD in neuropsychology I undertook research looking at correlations between ptsd in women and substance misuse. I think academics should read this book it gives a great insight into someone’s mind, in fact I think everyone should read this book, it makes you realise how ‘normal’ abnormal situations are. I was lucky to have wonderful parents and a happy childhood until I hit 11 and was bullied horrendously. This was my trauma and so much of the writing resonated with me. …. Excellent!!