Raised By a Narcissist: That Woman aka My Mother

by Serena Bennett

Raised By a That Woman aka My Mother
🔥 "She was supposed to love me. Instead, she broke me."

This raw and deeply personal memoir unveils the emotional scars of growing up with a narcissistic mother — a woman who withheld love, manipulated, and controlled, leaving wounds that shaped my very identity.

Inside these pages, I share the painful reality of narcissistic abuse — the gaslighting, silent treatment, and constant invalidation that turned home into a battlefield.

✔️ A childhood where love came with conditions
✔️ A mother who twisted the truth and erased my reality
✔️ A desperate search for validation in a world that dismissed my pain

But this is not just a story of suffering.
It is a testament to survival.

Through heartbreak, rebellion, and moments of rare kindness, I discovered something healing is possible.

Who is this book for?

If you have ever questioned your worth because of a toxic parent
If you have struggled with guilt, gaslighting, or emotional abuse
If you have felt unseen, unheard, or unloved
Then this book is for you. You are not alone.

With raw honesty and an unwavering voice, I share my truth in the hope that it will resonate with you long after the last page is turned.

📖 It is time to break free. It is time to heal. Are you ready to reclaim your story?

⚠ Trigger This book discusses themes of narcissistic abuse, emotional manipulation, and childhood trauma.

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help, Abuse

74 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 5, 2025

About the author

Serena Bennett is the author of the powerful memoir Raised by a Narcissist: That Woman aka My Mother . In this deeply personal and unflinching account, she reflects on her childhood experiences growing up with an Afro-Caribbean narcissistic mother. Through raw honesty and heartfelt storytelling, she sheds light on the long-term effects of toxic relationships while offering a message of resilience, healing, and hope.

Writing this memoir has been an essential part of her own healing journey, helping her process the past and reclaim her voice. Her aim is to support others in doing the same—to help them feel seen, understood, and empowered to begin their own journey of self-discovery.

In addition to her memoir, she writes a wide range of non-fiction books, including practical guides on personal finance, reflective journals, and engaging activity books. She also creates and sells handmade healing crystal jewellery, thoughtfully designed to support emotional balance, inner peace, and personal healing—each piece is available through her website: www.SerenaBennettOfficial.com

Her two blogs allow her to connect with people who are seeking guidance, encouragement, and support:

• SerenaBennettOfficial.com – focused on emotional wellbeing, creativity, and healing

• MissMoneySaver.net – packed with practical money-saving tips

She is a mother and grandmother, roles that deeply shape the way she shows up in her work and in the world. She enjoys travelling, keeping fit, spending time outdoors, and capturing everyday beauty through photography.

Whether she is writing, designing a journal, growing herbs on the windowsill, or packing a bracelet with intention, everything she creates is rooted in the belief that healing is possible—and that we all deserve peace, purpose, and joy.

If her journey resonates with you, she invites you to read her memoir Raised by a Narcissist: That Woman aka My Mother , available on:

• Amazon
• Her website (lower price, supports independent authorship)
• Audible
• Spotify
• Google Books
• Kobo

Reviews

[Adrienna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a complimentary audio copy of "Raised by a Narcissist..." from the author Serena Bennett to provide a free review from LibraryThing.

While listening to the female Narrator: Jasmine M., I originally selected this book to win to see if I am also raised by one. As I got over my 30's and lived alone, no longer under my mom's care, I started to wonder 🧐🤔 why everytime you say something or share a story that she quickly jumps in to tell her children including me about herself. Yet, the author Bennett shares her self-reflective truths in a memoir form via audiobook or on Kindle.

The first few chapters, I clearly thought about Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs on the diagrammed pyramid on "love and sense of belonging" is what she truly needed yet felt a lack of love and belonging; comfort in things was not what she truly wanted/needed. Since this book echoes Maslow's hierarchy of needs, I do like how the author starts with a prologue or quote, or reference material before sharing her memory in that chapter section and leaves the reader with a lessons learned section (which I love to not only hear the issue or problem yet to provide solutions, or resolution).

I loved the phrase, "misery was her balm" in chapter 10. Her mother that 'woman' later wanted to be referenced to 'Mrs. Brown's preferred to see those misery to make her feel comfort or made company with those who suffered, hurt, or miserable as if her life wasn't as bad after all mentality. Yes, we can let go of blood ties if they do not tie us together as a bond or showcase love (action word) in all things; let them go since it is not healthy to keep being with toxic people. Who wants to be around anyone that spews "deliberate jabs" that is not only verbal abuse but mental abuse and can break one's spirit or soul that some scars cannot easily disappear or dissipate.

I am thankful to hear that Serena (author) had to cut all ties to toxicity even with that woman. She explains that woman thrived on other's responses or reactions to give her pure satisfaction, and was her source of instant gratification. True narcissistic behaviors; severe these ties and distant one self is best. Self care is priority!

Protect your peace--this is necessary! My grannie would always tell me when distraught or distressed, "Do not allow anyone to steal your JOY!"

It was well-written, well-felt or relatable shared experiences, and even the narrator was worth listening to for 90 minutes!

Library Thing Review
Adrienna Turner
Author of "The Day Begins with Christ (2008)" or "Begin with Christ (2018)"

[Rakhi (New Book Reviewer) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you ever read a book so real, it feels like someone is telling your own story?

That’s exactly what this powerful memoir does it gives voice to the silent pain of many who’ve lived through emotional manipulation and narcissistic parenting.
This book is a raw and courageous read.

The highlight I loved about this book is its honesty. The way painful truths were shared without filters or fluff was deeply moving. The storyline is powerful, layered with pain, reflection, and the steady strength of someone reclaiming their voice.

The author has bravely shared a personal journey with clarity and courage, shining a light on a topic many shy away from. Her vulnerability has been turned into strength, and that makes this book so impactful.

The writing is clear, heartfelt, and emotionally charged, offering comfort, validation, and empowerment to readers who may feel alone in their struggles.

This book is a must-read for anyone navigating the effects of childhood trauma, emotional abuse, or difficult parent-child dynamics. I found this book to be intense, real, and incredibly healing.

The author’s ability to speak truth with grace and guide readers toward hope is truly admirable. I can’t wait to read more from her.

Overall, a bold, emotional, and unforgettable read.

[Jade · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5 stars

Would have rated this more stars if there was more story x
Now don't get me wrong the information provided gives a clear picture of what Serena Bennet dealt with in her life I just wanted a little more context to her story x

What i took away for Serena's story was how it takes a brave person to walk away from a really shitty situation & an even stronger person to move past their live experiences to make the most of the life they are living & growth as a person x

I find myself being so thankful & grateful to my mum (who i sadly lost back in Sept 2022) she taught me to be compassionate & caring x made me into the women I am today x

I just want to say to Serena that you are an inspiration to women & men who have dealt with similar situations & shown them how removing themselves can make all the difference & also how sometimes seek medical/professional assistance can help us move forward x

Thank you Serena for allowing me to read your story xxxxx

[Mona Garg · Rating 3 out of 5]

My thanks to LibraryThing Early Reviewers and the author for my e-ARC.

This was a raw, emotional, unflinching glimpse into the author’s life — if you can call it that — growing up with her mother, “that woman,” the narcissist.

The structure of this memoir varies from others I have read. Divided into short titled chapters, each beginning with a PROLOGUE(a relevant quote), body of the chapter, EMOTIONAL REFLECTIONS, and LESSONS LEARNT.

This was a short but, by no means, easy book. I appreciated her journey, but I found the writing to be very repetitive and made the book feel longer than it was. From what I have previously read and watched, those who have suffered through an adverse, abusive childhood can go in one of two directions. They are either doomed to perpetuate it or are determined to break the cycle. Three words resonated with me after reading Serena’s memoir : courage and catharsis, and clarity.

[Emilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful, raw memoir - emotionally difficult to read but so important! It's a powerful act of reclaiming identity after years of emotional warfare. Serena fearlessly unpacks the trauma of growing up with a narcissistic mother, which was visibly hard to endure.
Every chapter is a punch to the gut, but so authentic. A lot of raw vulnerability in this book...
But it's also ultimately hopeful. If you've ever felt unseen, unloved, or broken by a parent who was supposed to protect you, this book could give you comfort.

[Vowelor Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Raised by a Narcissist: That Woman aka My Mother’ is a powerful memoir by Serena Bennett. It’s an incredibly honest story of a woman’s lifelong journey to reclaim her voice and peace after a childhood filled with abuse and neglect.



The memoir begins with a quiet but powerful shift – Bennett deciding that it’s time to stop carrying her story in silence. From early childhood, Serena is forced to navigate a world where affection is absent, achievements are dismissed, and control is constant.

Her relationship with her mother, whom she pointedly refers to only as “that woman”, looms large throughout the book.

As the story moves through adolescence and into adulthood, you see her struggles through various phases, up close and raw. Serena’s journey becomes less about reacting and more about reclaiming.

Serena holds nothing back, sharing her “raw and unfiltered” story. What starts as one woman telling her story turns into a brave, unflinching look at how trauma shapes us, and how reclaiming your voice can be the first real act of freedom.

If you’re looking for a memoir that offers both profound personal insight and powerful inspiration, Raised by a Narcissist is for you. It doesn’t sensationalize trauma. Instead, it offers a clear-eyed look at what it means to survive, grow, and eventually thrive.

⭐ Rating: 4/5
✅ Verdict: A raw, powerful memoir stitched with scars, strength, and staggering honesty.

👉 Read the full review of Raised by a Narcissist: That Woman aka My Mother on Vowelor.

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want a quick listen that will make you reflect on yourself and your own family dynamics while hearing the details of another, then this is the book for you. Narrated by the talented Jasmine Morentin, this book serves as a self-reflective memoir where the author views her past through a healing lens, trying to make sense of her past and what she endured at the hands of her narcissistic mother. I myself have a wonderful mother who has always tried her best and put her family first, so I am blissfully unaware of what this concept looks like on a personal level, but I know there are many that will identify with Serena and see themselves in her story.

While this is a short listen, it packs a powerful punch. You can feel the raw emotions that are still very much present as the author navigates her past and particularly her relationship with her mother. It hurts my heart that so much of her upbringing is tinged with pain and the fact that she can’t even call her mother ‘mom’ but instead refers to her as ‘that woman’.

Listening to this book has really made me self-reflect on my own relationship with my parents and how multi-faceted these relationships are. You don’t realize just how much of yourself is defined by your formative years and shaped by those that raised you, and I hope and pray that this journey that the author is clearly on will lead to healing. “Even in the darkest moments, there is strength to be found,” and there is power in facing the past and breaking free from the ties that bind.

[Basil Sparks · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I opened Serena Bennett’s "Raised By A Narcissist: That Woman Aka My Mother," I was unsure what to expect. Narcissism is often misused, but in a parent, it reflects a self-centered individual who uses emotional manipulation, imposing unempathetic and unrealistic expectations on a child, characterized by relentless criticism and blaming. Serena’s experience resonated deeply, evoking sadness yet gratitude for supportive figures in her life.

Narcissism in a parent leaves lasting scars, identity wounds that don’t easily heal. I wondered how long Serena’s healing journey would take, sensing she’s still on the path. I’m grateful for her vulnerability and storytelling. Although the book is short, with moments where fuller explanations would have been appreciated, Serena writes beautifully, packing her words with emotion.

Personally, the book left me with gratitude and heartache – heartache for those who, like Serena, have endured so much, and gratitude for my parents’ legacy of love. It’s easy to repeat past patterns, and Serena’s book urged me to continue loving my family and friends. Thank you, Serena.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raised By a Narcissist is a heartfelt memoir from the author that serves to allow her to come to terms with the unreconcileable breakdown of her relationship with her mother. Rather than being used as vehicle to attack her mother, the author relates stories from their lives together and in laying them bare takes us on a journey of her own personal healing. The purpose of which is to offer hope to readers that may have had similar experiences in their lives. The author’s skillful use of anecdotes and descriptions of her experiences with her mother throughout her childhood, and into her own time as a mother and grandmother, paint an evocative and emotive picture of their relationship. The reader is left with a sense that any bitterness harboured by the author towards her mother earlier in her life has left her by the process of writing this memoir. In doing so, Serena Bennett offers a message of hope and healing to the reader.

[Nicole Shearer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I hate that this book resonates with me. I hate that this book will resonate with so many others. I love that this author had the guts to put her experience on paper so that others may find comfort in her words. Even though my narcissist was not a parent, the experience and feelings are the same. I wish I had found this book sooner as it has great insight into how to deal with "those people" or "that woman" and how to teach yourself to not feel so broken by someone else's actions. It's a quick read for those who still may be easily triggered. I hope everyone can find comfort and healing.

[Iris O'Brien · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a challenging book to relate to if you have a had a good mother in your life. However lots of us haven’t experienced that and this is a book for you.

It’s a honest account of living with a narcissistic mother and is a deeply personal book. It offers hope to those that decide to walk away from toxic parents and shows you can move on. It’s not there to offer a solution to fix your relationship with your parent but to show that you can survive & thrive in spite of them.

[Hyacinth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Freedom is Messy!

The sadness and rage I felt while reading this book then, examining me to see if I had any of these traits. I felt like the author held back WHOLE LOT! I have seen this behavior before. I don't understand it and it leaves me speechless. I am glad she finally made the decision to safeguard herself and her children. I'm disappointed in the family that did not rally to support her. Kudos on your journey to healing.

[Ghofran Alyass · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful read

This memoir from beginning to end was so compelling and I was so moved by the author's words and journey. I felt like I was going along with the author on her journey. As an author who wrote a memoir about complex experiences as well, I developed a deep connection with the author.

[Wendy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Raised by a Narcissist offers a valuable window into the psychological effects of growing up with a narcissistic parent. Bennett does a solid job of showing how narcissistic traits manifest in family dynamics and how long- lasting the effects are. Readers raised similarly will feel a kinship with her and be encouraged by her determination to improve her family life and not let her upbringing dictate her happiness. However, it didn’t feel fully fleshed out from a “story- telling” perspective.