Painkiller Addict (Kemp) - Book Reviews

Book Reviews
Seeringly honest and courageous, an absolutely brilliantly written book about the descent into painkiller addiction that can so easily occur when someone is dealing with unbearable physical and emotional pain. A brave, heartfelt and extraordinary book.
Corinne Sweet - Author, psychologist and broadcaster


Frankly written, Kemp's courageous memoir will help those dealing with an addict, or with addiction itself.
Big Issue (North)


A brilliantly written book.... It's not only an inspirational addiction recovery story but also a deeply moving book about recovering from loss on many levels—health, love, independence, career, dignity, trust, optimism.... Cathryn's story gripped me at gut level from page one.
Gael Lindenfield - Author and Self-Help Expert


Looking at the cover, you might think Painkiller Addict is a self-help book for recovering addicts (and I've no doubt that Cathryn Kemp's insights and inspirational story are a beacon of hope for many), but I don't think that's what it is. It's a brilliantly well written memoir. Reading the book is like reading any great story: it's not just an account, it's an experience. Surprisingly, it's not harrowing to read. The journalistic pace of Kemp's writing draws you into the story and keeps you reading - it's fascinating and impossible to put down. I read the sample and loved it. I'm so pleased I bought the whole book, it's a great read!
SL Bradbury


Brilliant book. I've only got about a quarter of the way through but I'm really enjoying it. It's well written and, so far, I can relate to everything she says.
Emma-Jane Robinson


Amazing story of bravery and determination. Couldn't put this book down. Honest and inspiring, well done to cathryn kemp! Amazing.
Michelle Haiming


A very open account of a successful young woman's decent into the physical, psychological and social torture which is addiction. Whether the drug of choice is alcohol, painkillers or any other number of substances or behaviours, the patterns are all strikingly similar. The thing that struck me hard in this book is the shame, guilt and deceit that encircles the addict and is fed by the spiral of need... A great account which left me close to tears at the end. Cathryn obviously realises the delicacy of life and lives each day accordingly. Thank you Cathryn, and good luck for your future.
Marc (UK)