Reach for Joy

The author comes from a large family, being one of twelve children. As she was the third oldest of the siblings she had a lot of experience with looking after the younger children in the family and so she wasn’t really wanting to rush into marriage and having her own babies yet. As is often the case, life had other plans for her and that special someone came along. There was no fairy-tale ending as her husband turned out to be controlling and abusive.T. L. Reys’ memoir REACH FOR JOY is a very powerful read, emotional and affecting. It took five years to write and spans three decades. Her husband had the desire to live like pioneers from a bygone era. At one point they lived in a mountainous region of Idaho without electricity, running water or other essentials of modern life. During this time, she had ten children, one of whom was buried on the mountain. Her memoir holds nothing back and has scenes of emotional abuse, rape and death. She eventually managed to change the course of her life and it’s wonderful that she’s now happy and content and enjoying her grandchildren-as she says: “We all have a story to tell. Hopefully your story will end up like mine, joyful.” She hopes that telling her story will help others and that they may find the courage to leave an abusive relationship before it’s too late.

I cannot remember if I saw this book mentioned on Amazon, or Goodreads or on a Facebook page, but I am so glad I bought it. A story about a young girl who makes an unfortunate marriage as a way of escaping the restrictions of her large family only to end up with a narcissistic psychopath, I could relate to. I was amazed and shocked at the conditions she, and her 10 surviving children had to suffer, with inadequate housing, shortage of food and warmth. I can only admire her tenacity and her courage. While some may judge her for putting up with the abuse for years, I can understand her dilemma - it happened to me. A really good book and I wish the author every success in life, she deserves to succeed.

Absolutely gripping read. I couldn't put it down. I feel very priviledged to know the author of this book as a friend. She is a truly remarkable woman and I feel awe at what she has not only endured and survived, but has overcome, untainted by bitterness. I hope this book gives courage to others who feel powerless in abusive situations and stirs them on to find a safe way of escape.

A very well written book chronicling the deceit and lies within a toxic, abusive relationship. I was grasped and read in two sittings (wish it had been one but had to go out!), all the time wishing Tessy would break free. She did break free but endured pain such as no one should endure for far too long. Thoroughly recommended for anyone in a relationship or thinking of getting into one.

I read this book from start to finish in one sitting. I simply could not put it down. Heartbreaking, shocking, sad, but ultimately uplifting. I am in awe of "Tessy"'s courage, strength, bravery and resilience.

Beautiful book, well worth reading.

Loved the book.

Incredible story! I was glued to every page for hours at a stretch.