If you are holding this book, firstly, I'm sorry.
Unless you're a critic, a curious friend, or someone nosily wondering what Justine is writing about, I'm going to assume something more personal: that you are the adult child of a narcissistic mother. And she's recently died or she will soon. Or maybe she died a long time ago and you're only just starting to process it now, because that's how grief can work when it's complicated.
Very few people pick up a book like this casually. You're likely confused, you might be angry (and you may well feel ashamed of how angry you are). You may find yourself grieving someone who hurt you deeply whilst also missing them so badly it takes your breath away.
You might be second-guessing every feeling. You might be stuck in old patterns with the people who are still here. You might struggle with control - through food, alcohol, perfectionism. Your self-esteem might be low. Your inner voice might be cruel. And still, you may feel enormous bewildering love for the mother who raised you.
If this is you: I see you. I hear you. In many ways, I am you.
