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Letting Go

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When Dan put a gun to his head and pulled the trigger, he thought it would all be over, but he soon learns that in death, just like in life, you don't always get what you want.

As he watches the consequences of his suicide he meets Tar, a benevolent spirit who tries to help him let go of his life on Earth and move on to 'real Heaven'. A dark, tormented spirit is drawn to Dan's fiancée, Anne, as she struggles with her grief and guilt, becoming her constant companion.

Dan hopes that with Tar's help, he can find a way to save Anne and her three-year-old daughter from the shadowy spirit. However, things aren't always what they seem with spirits, and Dan begins to wonder who it truly haunts.

All proceeds donated to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
1-800-273-8255
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Letting Go is like ‘The Five People You Meet in Heaven’ told from both sides of Heaven, ‘The Lovely Bones’ meets ‘A Grief Observed’. It’s a character-driven narrative exploration of grief, mental illness, suicide, regret, and letting go of things that cannot be changed. An emotion fueled drama which will make you cry, and sometimes laugh (or at least chuckle on the inside).

This story will touch the heart of all those who have struggled with forgiveness and letting go of things that cannot be changed. It will also provide comfort to the victims of suicide, who often suffer silently with their guilt and shame, and to anyone who has experienced profound grief, or depression.

It is the author’s hope that this book will save lives by giving pause to someone who is contemplating suicide, if only long enough for them to reach out for the help they need.

286 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2013

28 people are currently reading
1281 people want to read

About the author

Carrie Lange

4 books29 followers
I have lost a son, and a fiance to suicide.

All proceeds of the sale of this book are donated to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Amazon book link: http://www.amazon.com/Letting-Go-Carr...

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5 stars
79 (49%)
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39 (24%)
3 stars
27 (16%)
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11 (6%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Chris The Story Reading Ape.
1,196 reviews133 followers
June 1, 2013
Even though a work of fiction, this book was written with imagination, care, love, sensitivity and deep feelings.

Dan, the main character, has finally given in to his lifelong struggle against the desire to die, to leave this painful and heart-breaking life that causes him so much sorrow.

Only after he commits suicide, does he realise that he was, in fact, greatly blessed in life.

Now, as he wanders through the vageries of the afterlife, he discovers that his loving fiance and her child that he had left behind, are in danger and there is little he can do to help them.

This story will hopefully make anyone seriously considering suicide, think again and get help, before they too, lose the valuable gift of LIFE.

For every suicide there are ALWAYS at least two victims ... the person who commits it and those people who loved them and live on ...

See my reviews also on:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/product-revie...

http://www.amazon.com/product-reviews...
Profile Image for a_tiffyfit.
759 reviews112 followers
September 19, 2013
This was a very moving book that explores not only those who commit suicide, but the aftermath for the survivors: the ones they left behind. It is incredibly emotional, frustrating, and really makes you think about the thoughtless remarks that come out of people's mouths, even if they are well-meaning. Tar and Rale's story was just as heartbreaking as Dan and Anne's, and their inability to let go. This is not an easy read due to the subject matter at hand. It isn't a breezy book. It's thought-provoking, heartwrenching, sad, and yet...hopeful. There is hope. There is always hope. Dan thought everyone would be better off if he was no longer in the world, that his pain would stop as soon as he pulled the trigger. But it didn't. He had to learn to let go first, but how could he when he sees his Anne so tormented?

As you journey with Dan and Anne and others, I think you'll run a gamut of emotions from sympathy and empathy to shock to contemplation of people in your own life, etc. The bigger picture of this book is heartfelt and emotional and true: keep living. You are worth saving. Don't give up. When you need help, reach out and ask for it, either from someone you trust or that hotline. There are people to help. You are not alone. <3 <3 <3 <3

1-800-273-8255
http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline....
Profile Image for Tenkara Smart.
Author 3 books167 followers
May 6, 2021
A spiritual, life-changing story full of tragedy and hope.

It's hard to summarise the story w/out risk of spoilers, so I'll do my best. It's the story of a man who is depressed and he meets a woman who later becomes his fiancée. However, even his new found love isn't enough to pull him out of his darkness. It's only after he makes a life-changing decision that his perspective on living changes dramatically. Throughout the book there are strong themes of mental illness, hope, spiritualism, and more. There are strong supernatural/paranormal and past life themes which I loved. I don't suffer from mental illness and this novel gave me new perspective on the struggles and difficulties a person faces when they suffer depression and mental illness, all wrapped into a highly entertaining and page-turning story. I felt great empathy for ALL of the characters, and the author BLEW MY MIND at the end of the book with her ABOUT THE AUTHOR - it brought tears to my eyes. This is an inspiring and thought provoking read that I highly recommend.

Here are just a few of my favourite lines are:

"The reflection of candlelight glimmered along the seven-inch steel blade. Like a lover, it enchanted him."

"We, the suicidally depressed. We are at the end stage. We are dying. Yet, unlike a person dying from cancer, who is gently encouraged to let go when his battle is lost and his pain is unbearable, we are told to keep holding on. And when we no longer can, we are hated, mocked, looked down upon. The dying cancer patient becomes a hero. We become an embarrassment. A shameful thing to be hidden away."

"Cancer creates heroes who deserve support and understanding. Mental illness creates losers who deserve nothing but derision. We had to fight along, my hope and me....I battled a fatal disease. Just as fatal as cancer. But my illness didn't show on the outside of my body like cancer does. It was hidden away inside my brain."

"You didn't let go. You ran away. There's a big difference."

"Weeping is different than crying. When you weep, a part of your soul is carried away with your tears."

"When the world is gone, the spirit sees."

"Every bit of matter in the universe has spirit. Even after a body dies, tiny molecules and particles still exist. They still have spirit. Every think has spirit."

"When someone dies, the pain and grief doesn't end for those closest to that person when the funeral ends. The worst is just the beginning for them." (excerpt from ABOUT THE AUTHOR)
Profile Image for Fia.
78 reviews35 followers
November 9, 2015
I just finished this and I have no words.



And I believed her. I believed her every single word and it's been one hell of a ride. The characters were so very real even in afterlife and the pain and grief Anne felt... let's just say I could almost feel it too.

I was really shocked after reading author's note at the end. Carrie Lange opened her heart to her readers and I think she's very brave, awesome writer and she did an amazing job.

It took me longer than usual to finish this book, but it wasn't because I wouldn't like it. No. It was the exact opposite - I didn't want it to be over.

You see, there's Dan. Dan is a sad, depressed guy who doesn't think much about himself. Which is shame, because I think Dan is a great guy. He's depressed even though he has an amazing fiancé that he loves and a kid - even if not his - that he loves as well. Still, he isn't happy. He hasn't been happy for a long time. So he kills himself. That is not a spoiler. You know that right from the start. He dies and now expects to go to Heaven, but that doesn't happen, because he can't let go. Then there's Tar. Tar is always right beside him in his afterlife. Tar is a spirit who can't find a peace.

I really wanted to know what happened to Tar and I can say that I didn't expect that. There's also Rale, who is an exact opposite of Tar. He's also spirit and he's drawn to sorrow. That's why he's always with them, because they're always with Anne, who has to live her life after her fiancé killed himself. And the grief she feels is slowly killing her. So that's that. The main characters. One hell of characters.

Just read it. Now. You'll see.
Profile Image for Hannah Spencer.
Author 20 books7 followers
October 10, 2014
A young man, Dan, commits suicide. The story follows Dan in the afterlife in which he finds himself, and his fiancé Anne as they struggle to come to terms with and let go of the grief and guilt they suffer.
Although fiction, this is a very realistic and at times heartbreaking account of the tragic aftermath of depression and suicide. The fact that it is written from the author's personal experience makes it even more poignant. It depicts the turmoil of emotions - the pain, the anger, the misunderstanding, the "if only" - with devastating clarity, and also shows that they can be overcome. As such it could offer comfort and hope to anyone who has suffered through depression or bereavement.
It includes a deep spiritual message about the nature of life, the afterlife and the human spirit and ends with the message that even in the darkest despair, there is always hope. A beautifully written and remarkable story.
Profile Image for Virginia.
21 reviews
June 3, 2013
my brother in law just committed suicide on 3-13-13 he used a shot gun and blew his head off so I wanted to win this book for a gift to my sister so she can read this book I think it will help her.I thought it was written great and it helped me to learn and try to start healing all though I will never fully heal I loved the book.
3 reviews
October 30, 2015
Oh my god

I never realised it was mostly a true story. It touched me and made me cry find out it was real just makes it all the more amazing story. I'm so glad I found this.
Profile Image for Amy Johnson.
Author 4 books61 followers
June 24, 2021
I finished this book with a knot in my throat. I read the author's note with fat, ugly tears rolling down my face. Yes, this was a powerful, moving, dark, spine-chilling read, but it was also real. That was the final nail in the coffin ("You're really joking at a time like this?" -Bo Burnham) for me. Those god-awful words "every 'real' thing that happens in this story is exactly how I experienced it"-- that's what got me.

Because this books is horrifying. Not boo-scary. I wasn't wanting to hide under the covers or leave the lights on. No, no. In our book club, I said it was like a car wreck. You really want to look away, but you just can't. That's not to say I forced myself to finish the book. Lord, no. My brain wouldn't have let me stop if I wanted to. I absolutely had to see this through. I was clinging to every single word.

Letting Go by Carrie Lange is an absolutely heartbreaking read that takes you through the all-too-real world of grief and suicide. It's packed with beautiful prose that will make you feel things, whether you like it or not. It's definitely not a read for the faint of heart, but anyone who is strong enough-- like Anne and Lange-- to embark on this journey will most definitely benefit from every moment. I've learned so much from reading this book.

I hurt. I raged. I cried.

But then, I smiled with the hope that Anne was going to be okay.

Please-- Read my full review here:
https://aejohnsonwrites.wordpress.com...
Profile Image for H.G. Ahedi.
Author 23 books54 followers
July 4, 2021
Letting go – mixing facts with fiction

A beautifully written book about trauma and the mental impact of death on us.
When Dan decides to make a very hard decision, he immediately regrets it’s because he fails to see the consequences of his actions on the life of his fiancé and her daughter. But at this stage there is no going back and he is not yet ready to leave his loved ones behind and move on.
The story then focuses of Anne, she has lost the love of her life and she feels unworthy, unwanted and alone. Several unhealthy and dark thoughts rise in her mind as she tries to seek answers to understand what happened.
The novel shows the hard truth that after a death, very little support is offered by the society mainly because we live in the world were people care more about their image rather than caring for their family or other people. Many people who have gone through unimaginable trauma are afraid even share their remorse because it makes other people uncomfortable and there is a stigma around mental illness. People just tell you – ‘get over it.’ The truth is there is no switch off button. We are humans not robots. We don’t need judgment, we need to means and support to cope with it.
In this story, on their path, both Dan and Anne come across ‘spirits’ who have been lingering for hundreds of years and are in lot of pain because they did not have the courage to accept the situation, apologize for their behavior, and move on. Overcoming grief is a hard ball, and the author has beautifully crafted these feelings with supernatural aspects and made this one of the most informative and yet entertaining book that covers this subject.
Profile Image for Elena.
60 reviews2 followers
June 26, 2021
Painful, Heartbreaking, Real

It's beautifully written and a gripping read. It is was almost unbearable to read at times. Following Anne's journey, her despair, pain, and guilt made me wish to scream and cry with her. It's amazing that so many people are affected by depression, mental illness, suicidal thoughts, yet, there is so little help from society, in general. The stigma is one of the reasons for so many keeping it hidden until it's too late.
I loved the spiritual - after-life layer of the story, which could have been funny at times, if not for the very dark reality. It almost offered comfort and resolve.

One of my favorite quotes from the book:
"Right now, there are people in our lives looking the other way and we’re drowning. We have a choice to make. Call out for help, or drown in silence.”
Profile Image for Angel Medina.
Author 12 books107 followers
May 1, 2021
I'm nearly finished with this book but I feel it's enough that I can give a review. As a PTSD victim, I was hesitant to read this book since I've had suicidal thoughts after a hurricane came through my island. However, I gathered the guts to read. Yes, there is the trigger warning of suicide but it's written in the description. Nevertheless, I felt the raw emotion of my struggle with depression and how to fight it. The paranormal aspect is simply the icing on the cake. It's a powerful read and that is why I picked it up. I did get triggered at times which is why I had to put it down often.

But at the same time, that is what I'm sure the author wanted as a reaction. Not all books are rosy and this one is not for the faint of heart. Nevertheless, it gets five stars. I urge anyone with depression who can handle it, read this book!
Author 3 books16 followers
June 25, 2021
An Intense But Oh So Worthwhile Read.
This is probably the hardest book I have ever had to review. It’s such a heart wrenching story full of horribly confronting truths. It made me cringe, weep, get angry, even shout at the characters, but in the end it left me feeling hopeful and even a changed person. This book really opened my eyes, and I thought I knew a little about mental illness. But not one person’s illness is the same and we must never assume. I have the greatest respect for the author in having put her story out there. I hope many people will get to read it as it could potentially change lives. I can’t say I enjoyed reading it in the traditional sense of the word, but wow, I’m glad I did!
Profile Image for A..
12 reviews
June 27, 2021
*TRIGGER WARNING*
If you have any issues with vivid and graphic talk regarding suicide please be careful mindful when you read this book. I was a heart wrenching story that touched on the real effects of true clinical depression but added a celestial story of the afterlife with surprising revelations throughout the book. This isn't a love story of traditional sense but it still fills the pages with true feelings you can't help but experience yourself. The story hurt my heart but makes the pain of loss real and raw. If you want a emotional page turner I recommend this book
Profile Image for S.A.McClelland S.A.McClelland.
Author 7 books9 followers
Read
June 28, 2021
Survivor

This is not an easy read for the heavy hearted. Instead it is a read for those that have suffered, and survived either suicidal thoughts or that of someone close to them having contemplated or done the act themselves. This book follows one woman's brave journey through fact and fiction the journey she took with it. It is wonderfully written and easy to read and more importantly gives you an enlightenment at the end.
Some stigmas need to be broken.
Read as part of a book club.
Profile Image for Nikoleta Kotecha.
10 reviews
January 29, 2022
A brilliant thought provoking, emotive and more unique novel coming from someone who usually reads pure romance. In a way this book makes all the others seem meaningless in comparison due to its important messages regarding life and forgiveness. Definitely a book I wish more people would talk about although it’s not a light read with the heavy emphasis on suicide, grief and death. All I can say is I’m glad I’ve read it.
Profile Image for Damien Hanson.
Author 46 books43 followers
June 21, 2021
5 star writing but, also, I had to put it down

The book is powerful and the writing style is perfect for what it is doing. So I am giving it 5 stars. But I also have to say that I could not finish it. It has an extremely sad and traumatic story. One that gave me flashbacks to rather traumatic events in my own history.
Profile Image for K.J. Simmill.
Author 10 books144 followers
June 28, 2021
A gripping and intense read that will pull you into a whirlwind of emotions. Beautifully written to address serious and meaningful issues that will stir the heart and stay with you long after you finish. it will really make you think, and offer a whole new perspective and a complete view of how things effect those left behind. it's a hard and emotional read, and well worth every second invested.
Profile Image for Arlene Lomazoff-Marron.
Author 7 books64 followers
June 29, 2021
Unbelievable!

Wow! This is an incredible journey into the minds of the victims and those left behind. Do not be scared into avoiding this book. It is an unbelievable read.
Profile Image for Andrea Balfour.
507 reviews3 followers
May 22, 2017
I don't know anything about suicide. I have never wanted to die nor been exceptionally close to anyone who has chosen that path. I read this for a friend, to understand the grief she has over losing her husband. I can't say that I get it because I know I never will and I'm sure I don't want to truly know. But my hope is that this book gives me an insight into her thoughts and fears and helps me to help her. She read it and I followed her.

I have bouts of depression and OCD tendencies. I can understand some of those feelings Dan felt in this story. I know no one gets it. I know it's shameful to admit. I know people say to get over it because they don't understand anything beyond simple sadness. It's different and so much more.

This book is non-fiction on the earthly side and fiction on the other. I am impressed with how the story was interwoven betwixt the characters. It tries to help the reader understand both depression and grief, and then hope.

Aunthentic communication seems to be the key. We're all moving away from that in this age of technology and happy-go-lucky Facebook posts. The world is not real today. Go out and physically be with friends. Speak in person, drink wine, sing out loud. Live. Happiness will come and go, be it weak or strong, but life is hope. Keep living. That's the fun. Tomorrow is a new day.
Profile Image for Zara Pemberton.
100 reviews
November 15, 2015
I have had a tough few years. I came across this book when I began to think about starting the process of moving on from the last few years. I downloaded it on the basis of the title. Its late and that is the only reason why I have put the kindle down for the night.

This book has shocked me, made me realise a few things and I now know something I need to do when I am down about life....

If you are or ever have had suicidal thoughts, read this book. I would imagine you will question if I died would I really want to not be here.

Its powerfully written and a definite book that I will continue reading at a rapid pace.

Finished this book, wow and a true story. Thoughts with the author and thank you for helping me let go through this book.
Profile Image for Sheila Myers.
Author 16 books20 followers
June 12, 2016
Although this is a work of fiction, I feel the story shows the emotions and turmoil experienced by people who are thinking about committing suicide and those who are left behind after the fact. The characters and plot are well-developed and interesting. The story will move your emotions and make you think more deeply about the main subject.
7 reviews
June 5, 2015
Sad but true

This story hit home with me. I lost my Dad to a broken heart two years ago and have had a hard time totally understanding. My Mom and Dad were married for 48 years and I have never seen anyone hurt quite like he did when may Mom passed. This book gave me some hope of some unanswered questions I have had. Thank you for sharing.
Profile Image for Janine Brouillette.
164 reviews3 followers
July 18, 2013
This book is an account of what happens to those left behind after a suicide. Anne struggles to find meaning in her life after Dan's death. Anne in her deepest sorrow wants to leave her daughter and life behind to join Dan.

This book is about pain, depression, sorry, and forgiveness.
Profile Image for Kevin Muir.
56 reviews1 follower
June 28, 2016
Excellent

A story so far from the truth but close enough to be the truth, only the names have been changed. A great recommendation for suicide survivors or those with thoughts of suicide.
1 review
January 9, 2017
Was quite amazed at how good this book was

Was quite taken aback at how good the book was .it had its twist and turns but only took couple of days to read .It's the kind of book that makes you look at life
Profile Image for Rubie.
59 reviews
December 28, 2014
Suicide recovery

This book touched my heart as a surviving mom to suicide loss. This book added hope for those grieving and fighting the stigma of suicide

Profile Image for Vienna Betham.
191 reviews8 followers
September 14, 2015
dnf

From what I remember reading, I think I enjoyed it but obviously not memorable enough to continue reading it.
9 reviews
April 29, 2016
Never letting go

Such honestly... my heart was breaking the whole time I spent reading this painful story. Perhaps it is the secret I hide inside.
4 reviews
April 8, 2017
Pretty Good

I did enjoy this book. Kept me on my toes a few times. A few things about it were odd, but all in all a good read.








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