The View From Coffin Ridge: A Childhood Exhumed

by Gwen Lamont

Paperback

Reviews

[Kim Longley · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW I don’t even have words for what an incredibly powerful story. I couldn’t stop thinking about Gwen and her family when I wasn’t reading it I was thinking about it. Including waking up in the night thinking about it. Thank you Gwen LaMont for sharing your story

[Kay Nutt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very captivating writing of such a challenging life. I don’t have a lot of words to express how I feel about this book, but I am so glad I read it, and highly recommend.

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a story of people with extremely limited resources doing what they could to survive. It’s a story of the effect one generation has upon the next. Ultimately it is a story of survival. The story is well written and well organized with occasional flashbacks that fit naturally into the narrative. It is honest and compelling, a book the author can be proud of.

[Jovdb · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given this book, along with many people, after being in the audience at a book launch for the author. It took me a while to pick it up and start reading and I had to put it aside to digest what I had read before carrying on.

Although I had volunteered at a Women’s shelter, had three sisters who were in abusive relationships, have been on courses and read books about abuse, this book brought it to life.

There are dark moments in the book, times when I cried for that young girl, her family; times when I railed at the systems that fail abused women; then I remembered that courageous, confident woman who presented her life to an audience of people she didn’t know. The courage it takes to look at that life and see how it shaped the current version of you can not be exaggerated.

While there are horrific scenes in the book, there are crumbs of hope to follow to the woman the author has become.

Such a well written book that gives hope to those who know people in this situation. One never knows the impact a few words might have on the future of others.

[Cynthia Connelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Couldn’t put this one down. Generational trauma, taking the opportunity even when it feels too late, the impact of one individual… so many messages and definitely a worthwhile read. Lost a star due to a bit of jumping around in the last third of the book, felt the timelines were confusing and the sequence of events weren’t as smooth. Small in comparison to the whole book. Would highly recommend.

[Alison Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75-4* however the subject matter can be disturbing for some. For those who are aware of Coffin Ridge Winery here on Georgian Bay, this is Gwen Lamont's memoir. Very well written and heartbreaking, but not a "woe is me" story. Well done Gwen on becoming such a successful business woman as well as a writer.

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very captivating true story, reflecting on childhood trauma and how to over come it. Parents dealing and coping the only way they know how, follow along as the author takes you back in time painting pictures of how much things have changed in society.

[Marie Simpson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent read. A tragic but true story that's ultimately uplifting. And the author as a spunky, young girl, writes in a matter-of-fact voice with plenty of wry commentary sprinkled throughout. Loved it, found it hard to put down, and I'd highly recommend it.

[Ruthpearson · Rating 4 out of 5]

very sad and disturbing. Since this is a memoir, I am very sorry this woman went through such dreadful experiences. I also am glad she has come out the other side and took the opportunities to investigate her past and come to terms with all she endured.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very tragic and compelling story. I applaud your bravery for sharing.

[Angela Belair · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say but I applaud you Gwen for your strength and courage to share your story. You truly are an
Incredible women. So proud of you!

[Sheilatm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Harrowing!!!!

[Toni Binnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read! A captivating story!

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I discovered this book having visited Coffin Ridge Winery. Kudos to the author for overcoming so many perils of childhood and for sharing her story.

[Valorie Mcclelland · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an incredible story.