Have you read In Her Shadows? Or are unsure whether to read it or not?

This letter is from Anya Eaton, the female protagonist to her mother before the book begins. There are no spoilers in it and it may influence you whether or not you would like to read the book.

Westhill Psychiatric
The middle of nowhere
Dear Mother,

I know I’ve become the ghost of the young girl you bought into this world, took care of and nurtured. I know it’s killing you but please stop blaming yourself.

You did your best by me mum, I know you did. Sadly, it was too late and heavier intervention was needed. I don’t know what happened, what caused all of this. All I know for sure, is that I am so lost within myself right now and I have no strength whatsoever to do the fighting needed to win against my daemons.

I know what I’m about to ask is not going to be something you’ll be happy about. It’s horrible having to ask this of you but I see no other option right now. There is no light in my darkness and I need you to just please, do this one thing for me.

Do not contact me. Please?

I need to focus on myself, fighting my diablo. Until I can find that strength I need peace and solitude. Until I can face this, I don’t need other people in my life trying to make me feel better, trying to be a light in the darkness that I’m drowning in. I know it’s hard to understand, I wish I had the words to explain it better. But I don’t.

I’m sick Mum. I’m dying inside piece by piece and if I’m going to survive I need to rest first, find the power within myself to pick myself up and start the long climb to freedom. It’s a long road ahead, uneven horrid terrain and I am going to have to crawl every inch of it to the other side, where green grass and smooth roads lie.

I will be in touch again, when I’m ready. Until then please just respect what I need from you. I’m not asking much, just leave me alone and allow the professionals here to do their job and help me begin to heal. I’ll need you soon Mum, I’ll need you by my side helping me as if I’m blind. But now is not that time, now is the time for self-healing, focusing and resting.

I love you so much, honest.
Your darling daughter
Anya