For a 24-year-old navigating the complex and often painful path of recovery, Behind The Curtain is more than a memoir ,it’s a lifeline. This raw and honest account of a woman’s turbulent childhood and eventual descent into alcoholism is powerful not only for its vulnerability, but for its relentless message: no matter how many times you hit rock bottom, you are still worthy of getting back up.

The author’s journey through multiple lows, each deeper and darker than the last, reminds me that addiction is rarely a straight line. Relapse, shame, and regret are all part of her story, yet so is resilience. For someone in early recovery, especially at a young age, this book validates the struggle and shatters the illusion that healing is linear.

What stands out most is the way Behind The Curtain illustrates how addiction extends beyond the individual. The ripple effect of pain, disappointment, and broken trust touches everyone close, family, friends, and partners. The book does not sugarcoat this truth. Instead, it forces the reader to confront it, and with that comes an understanding: recovery isn’t just about sobriety, it’s about making amends and learning to carry the weight of the past without letting it define the future.

A particularly striking message is the idea that you will one day have to pay tolls on the bridges you’ve burned. This hard truth is something many in recovery wrestle with ,the guilt of who you were and what you've done. But the author also shows that owning your past is part of reclaiming your future.

Ultimately, Behind The Curtain is a story of redemption. It shows that survival is possible even after years of pain and damage and not only survival, but transformation. For anyone in recovery, especially a young adult facing the lifelong journey ahead, this memoir offers not just hope, but a mirror. You’ll see your pain reflected, but also your strength. Side Note:This is the Second time I'm reading this book,the first time I was in active addiction and 2 years later I am 8 months sober.