*Two-time National Indie Excellence Award recipient* Pacing is that of a suspenseful, psychologically nuanced novel as an occupational therapist, yoga instructor and mother of three confronts him, “We need to talk. It's about your drinking.” Conveying to an emperor of denial that he's not wearing any clothes, will deliver the same result as a hand grenade with a loose pin—it's gonna blow!—hence the sudden arrival of a SWAT team on the lawn. In the world of divorce and addiction, we're just getting started. Our femme protagonist, Jessica, calls on instincts, wit and compassion to navigate: the splash zone of alcoholism, unbelievable betrayal, divorce court without a lawyer (which always goes well), single parenting, and more twists hurled by a narcissist with his back up.

Seeking to break off her chains of codependency, Jess pursues therapy with Dr. Rachel Phoenix, slayer of head games. The New York doc offers insights as sharp as her high-end shoes. A vibrant, playful reemergence is captured as Jess tries dating a woman, is pursued by a millionaire, and then, there's the hot young contractor; he showed up at the right time with the right, ah...tools. Notable are the community members—neighbor, lawyer, judge, Vietnam vet, real estate broker—all creating a link towards this endearing family's wellness.

SHOT GLASS is an intimate memoir of courage, fallible choices and altruism with gemstones of humor. It reminds us that forgiveness can change a life. Readers claim, I couldn't put this book down!

Facts: The CDC reported that more than 15 million people in the US struggled with alcohol use disorders, but fewer than 8% received treatment (January 2018). According to the US Justice Department, 4 million women were threatened by a firearm;1 million of whom faced a bullet. (January 2019).

Carol Jacobanis

Stem