Stretched

by Michelle Cray

Michelle stood on the brink of disaster and the only person capable of bringing her back from the edge…was herself. From the time she was five years old, when she witnessed the near-death experience of her sister, her world was shaped by trauma. Her mother’s struggle with mental illness, her parents’ divorce, and the sexual assault that echoed through every relationship she formed left scars in her wake.

Stretched follows Michelle’s true story through the long aftermath of trauma, and how early abandonment and violence seep into identity, self-worth, and the choices she made. Her memoir depicts how hope can thrive in the face of incredible hardship and how pain can be transformed into resilience. Michelle’s writing is strong, it is candid, and she doesn’t hold anything back as she learns to finally reclaim her voice.

265 pages, Paperback

Published December 27, 2025

Reviews

[Kristen B · Rating 5 out of 5]

This deeply moving memoir is a testament to resilience and the courage it takes to reclaim one’s voice after decades of profound pain. You will be hooked after the first chapter and find yourself pouring hope into every part of Michelle’s life, just as she did.

[Jessica Conte · Rating 5 out of 5]

I instantly became engrossed in this touching and powerful memoir. It is a story of multiple traumas and the resilience that follows. Inspiring and courageous, the author touches on many topics that are not often talked about, but should be. Great read!

[Danielle S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book and couldn't put it down. It was a story of great perseverance, vulnerability, grace, forgiveness, and hope. Highly recommend.