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Emerging Butterfly
Constance Jones’s luminous debut is a harrowing journey to the limits of human endurance. Her singular story shows you that the path to love and acceptance may not present itself in the way you expect.
“Transformation is an inside job.” Constance was always a California dreamer, though her circumstances gave her no right to be. She grew up in 1980s San Diego as the fourth of nine children. The crowded two-bedroom apartment where she spent her childhood was far from a safe cocoon that could nurture her dreams into reality. Constance began caring for her siblings while she was still a child herself, stepping in for her overwhelmed mother and her often absent, unpredictable father. It would take years of putting up with his alcoholism and abuse before she left home to escape the emotional trauma she experienced there.
Searching for love and protection became the subconscious guiding force of her adult life. It led her into the arms of a man and the claws of a religious cult, and later into a marriage that ended in heartbreak after devastating infertility struggles and endless silences. Constance ultimately discovers that she holds the power to rise above the pain of her past, and love finds her once she learns to love herself first.
For readers of More Than Enough and Everything Is Figureoutable, Constance’s heartbreaking, stunning memoir shows you a new way forward, toward forgiveness, charity, and peace, in the knowledge that your circumstances do not define you. She tells her story as a testimony to the strength we have to overcome our past and the trauma left by those who couldn’t love us as we deserved. She’s been through it all, so now she asks you: how will you shape the narrative of your life? It isn’t too late to change the plot.
“Transformation is an inside job.” Constance was always a California dreamer, though her circumstances gave her no right to be. She grew up in 1980s San Diego as the fourth of nine children. The crowded two-bedroom apartment where she spent her childhood was far from a safe cocoon that could nurture her dreams into reality. Constance began caring for her siblings while she was still a child herself, stepping in for her overwhelmed mother and her often absent, unpredictable father. It would take years of putting up with his alcoholism and abuse before she left home to escape the emotional trauma she experienced there.
Searching for love and protection became the subconscious guiding force of her adult life. It led her into the arms of a man and the claws of a religious cult, and later into a marriage that ended in heartbreak after devastating infertility struggles and endless silences. Constance ultimately discovers that she holds the power to rise above the pain of her past, and love finds her once she learns to love herself first.
For readers of More Than Enough and Everything Is Figureoutable, Constance’s heartbreaking, stunning memoir shows you a new way forward, toward forgiveness, charity, and peace, in the knowledge that your circumstances do not define you. She tells her story as a testimony to the strength we have to overcome our past and the trauma left by those who couldn’t love us as we deserved. She’s been through it all, so now she asks you: how will you shape the narrative of your life? It isn’t too late to change the plot.
264 pages, Paperback
Published February 13, 2020
5 people are currently reading
482 people want to read
About the author
Constance G. Jones
2 books30 followersConstance G. Jones is a San Diego native, an avid reader, and a storyteller. Emerging Butterfly: A Memoir is Constance’s debut book.
She is the fearless host of Cocktails and Cliterature a romance book review podcast for all things spicy and steamy. With her sultry voice and sharp wit, Constance guides listeners through the wild and wonderful world of romance literature, always ready with a naughty quip or a tempting cocktail recipe.
When she's not recording episodes of the podcast, you can usually find Constance curled up with a dog-eared copy of her latest favorite romance novel, hanging out with her husband and Maltese Bijou, or shaking up a new creation in her home bar.
Constance is the perfect guide for anyone looking to explore their wildest fantasies through literature and libations.
She is the fearless host of Cocktails and Cliterature a romance book review podcast for all things spicy and steamy. With her sultry voice and sharp wit, Constance guides listeners through the wild and wonderful world of romance literature, always ready with a naughty quip or a tempting cocktail recipe.
When she's not recording episodes of the podcast, you can usually find Constance curled up with a dog-eared copy of her latest favorite romance novel, hanging out with her husband and Maltese Bijou, or shaking up a new creation in her home bar.
Constance is the perfect guide for anyone looking to explore their wildest fantasies through literature and libations.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
August 1, 2020
"A child should never have to choose between opening the door for her father and having her heart broken."
I've read several memoirs this year. Each one showing another aspect to life that I may not have been privy to. Each one I try to take a piece of their life experience and apply it to my own. I've learned from Constance's story that patience and perseverance can be the greatest assets to have in life. The struggles she endured growing up could have easily led to a different outcome but she didn't give up. Eventually, she came to a peace in her love life and her family. It's an inspiration to anyone.
I've read several memoirs this year. Each one showing another aspect to life that I may not have been privy to. Each one I try to take a piece of their life experience and apply it to my own. I've learned from Constance's story that patience and perseverance can be the greatest assets to have in life. The struggles she endured growing up could have easily led to a different outcome but she didn't give up. Eventually, she came to a peace in her love life and her family. It's an inspiration to anyone.
January 25, 2020
This book was received as an ARC from Beautiful Sky Publishing in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
Constance Grays Jones was born in California and raised to be a dreamer but when a tragic accident occurred almost fatal, Constance knew her life will never be the same. Constance reveals her secrets to saying positive ND discovered sunshine at the end of the tunnel even on the grayest of days . She still remains positive throughout her life and has become one of America's treasured influencers. I was in tears throughout this entire story and I know a lot of people will learn at least a thing or two from reading this book. I know our community will love it hopefully as much as I do.
We will consider adding this title to our Biography collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
Constance Grays Jones was born in California and raised to be a dreamer but when a tragic accident occurred almost fatal, Constance knew her life will never be the same. Constance reveals her secrets to saying positive ND discovered sunshine at the end of the tunnel even on the grayest of days . She still remains positive throughout her life and has become one of America's treasured influencers. I was in tears throughout this entire story and I know a lot of people will learn at least a thing or two from reading this book. I know our community will love it hopefully as much as I do.
We will consider adding this title to our Biography collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
June 15, 2020
To be honest, I'm not typically the type of girl who reads and enjoys memoirs. Non-fiction is hard for me to truly get invested in.
So imagine my surprise when I found myself binging this book. What really got me, from the very beginning, was the thread of pure hope that runs through these pages. Constance, while facing a very difficult childhood and early adult years, has this view of life that is simultaneously realistic and optimistic.
There are so many messages here that uplift, and give hope, and I found myself truly and deeply inspired by Constance G. Jones' strength in clinging to the good.
For a beautifully-written, short memoir from an #ownvoices #authorfocolor, please-- I beg you-- pick up this incredible book.
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I was provided with a free copy of this story for my review.
So imagine my surprise when I found myself binging this book. What really got me, from the very beginning, was the thread of pure hope that runs through these pages. Constance, while facing a very difficult childhood and early adult years, has this view of life that is simultaneously realistic and optimistic.
There are so many messages here that uplift, and give hope, and I found myself truly and deeply inspired by Constance G. Jones' strength in clinging to the good.
For a beautifully-written, short memoir from an #ownvoices #authorfocolor, please-- I beg you-- pick up this incredible book.
.
.
.
I was provided with a free copy of this story for my review.
February 22, 2020
Thank you for writing this book and sharing this amazing life story. I can think of multiple people in my life(myself included) that can really benefit from the uplifting spirit. All can draw inspiration and strength from this writing, especially in difficult times. Each of my kids will get their own copy when they leave for college. This book is a godsend. Constance is a godsend, for everyone who knows her.
January 30, 2020
Thank you once again, Constance, for allowing me the opportunity to read your book before release.
I found your memoirs a truly inspirational read.
Constance has the amazing ability to draw you into her life and the events that occurred.
I was simply blown away by her strength throughout her memoirs and her teachings about life which are ones which will stay with you and have an impact throughout your own life.
Definitely a book to keep on your shelves to continually seek and find deep uplifting messages for your own life.
I found your memoirs a truly inspirational read.
Constance has the amazing ability to draw you into her life and the events that occurred.
I was simply blown away by her strength throughout her memoirs and her teachings about life which are ones which will stay with you and have an impact throughout your own life.
Definitely a book to keep on your shelves to continually seek and find deep uplifting messages for your own life.
January 26, 2020
Wow just wow. What a great book. It was both funny and thoughtful in equal measure. Just and amazing piece of writing.
I throughly enjoyed this book and urge you to pick it up and read it.
Constance takes you on her journey and like her you don’t know which way things are going to go. So hold on tight and enjoy the ride.
Thank you to both NetGalley and publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this fantastic book in exchange for my review
I throughly enjoyed this book and urge you to pick it up and read it.
Constance takes you on her journey and like her you don’t know which way things are going to go. So hold on tight and enjoy the ride.
Thank you to both NetGalley and publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this fantastic book in exchange for my review
February 13, 2020
Amazing! This book has completely left me verklempt. I was prepared to be bored as it is a memoir yet nothing could be farther from the truth! Awe-inspiring, heart wrenching and heartfelt, I read page after page with tears streaming down my face. Constance is an amazing person who managed to find the positive in all things. What a great example she is. Her book is one to keep on the family bookshelf as a reminder that all things are possible.
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I gratefully received this complimentary copy upon request and am voluntarily leaving my review. All opinions are my own.
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I gratefully received this complimentary copy upon request and am voluntarily leaving my review. All opinions are my own.
February 11, 2020
This was a fun read, I have no idea what to expect from it! But my gosh I didn't want it to end, I wanted to read more! An Emerging butterfly is fun and suspenseful! With a hint of romance blossoming, just loved it!
March 23, 2020
Constance’s life story reads like a gritty fairytale where the villains are abuse, betrayal, and loss, and princes aren’t always what they seem. Yet she has persevered to tell us about it, bravely sharing the details of what could have been many tragic endings. The strength she had to endure what she’s gone through and to come out the other side as a positive, well-adjusted human seems superhuman.
Emerging Butterfly was an easy read. I found the style to be engaging, as if it’s a friend telling you their stories of how they became the person that they are today. There’s a part in her book where she talks about choosing to take the stones that life throws at you to build something good, which is really inspiring. You can’t always control what happens to you, but you can choose what you do next. It’s a perfect book for these uncertain times.
Emerging Butterfly was an easy read. I found the style to be engaging, as if it’s a friend telling you their stories of how they became the person that they are today. There’s a part in her book where she talks about choosing to take the stones that life throws at you to build something good, which is really inspiring. You can’t always control what happens to you, but you can choose what you do next. It’s a perfect book for these uncertain times.
March 17, 2020
I've read a lot of books in the past and few have truly moved me the way this one has. Constance's journey from childhood to now is harrowing, inspiring, and moving. I related to her tumultuous childhood the most, having grown up with an emotionally abusive father as well. It helps knowing I'm not the only one to have had such an upsetting and difficult childhood.
I highly recommend people read this book even if their life is "perfect". It's a great insight into one woman's life and how she overcame all of her obstacles.
I highly recommend people read this book even if their life is "perfect". It's a great insight into one woman's life and how she overcame all of her obstacles.
March 16, 2020
I'm usually one to be skeptical of memoirs but wow - I could not put this down! I would highly recommend this book to anyone, as we can all relate to life's various struggles that sometimes seem impossible to overcome. Constance's ability to find a positive outlook in life is truly inspiring and I will definitely be keeping this book readily available for any time I feel stuck in a negative rut.
A huge thank you to Constance for sharing her story - I absolutely loved it!!
A huge thank you to Constance for sharing her story - I absolutely loved it!!
March 17, 2020
This is a great book. The book includes stories and experiences that are heartfelt and easy to relate to. The author was able to reach the readers’ emotions by explaining real life experiences that people go through. I liked that the book is touching and shows that life has a path. Her story is so uplifting, expresses that through good and bad, life has so much meaning and we are strong enough to overcome difficult experiences. It is a must read!
May 29, 2020
“I am strong. I am powerful. I am more than my circumstances.” Emerging Butterfly by Constance G. Jones .
If you’re looking for a memoir about personal transformation from cocoon to butterfly, this is your book! I was so moved by Emerging Butterfly and the author’s way of conveying her journey: from a rocky childhood, the ups and downs of relationships, and her happily ever after. I really found myself relating to the author at different parts of her journey.
If you’re looking for a memoir about personal transformation from cocoon to butterfly, this is your book! I was so moved by Emerging Butterfly and the author’s way of conveying her journey: from a rocky childhood, the ups and downs of relationships, and her happily ever after. I really found myself relating to the author at different parts of her journey.
July 13, 2019
An absolutely exquisite book about emerging through the darkest shadows of life by choosing to become better instead of bitter... a truly heart-wrenching, heart-warming, and all-around heartening memoir. I can't recommend it enough.
September 8, 2020
I won this Kindle edition book in a Goodreads
Giveaway. Thank you to everyone involved.
A wonderful heartfelt story!
Giveaway. Thank you to everyone involved.
A wonderful heartfelt story!
January 20, 2020
If you want to answer the life question is it nature or nurture that moulds the child, read Emerging Butterfly and decide for yourself. A powerful and moving narrative that is told without drama but written in such a way you cannot help but be moved.
Yes I cried, as you read you will probably know exactly where. Like most of us she made decisions she regretted, she also had her choices taken away and decisions made for her but through it all what made her who she was shone through.
With thanks to #NetGalley and Beautiful Sky Publishing for the ARC.
Yes I cried, as you read you will probably know exactly where. Like most of us she made decisions she regretted, she also had her choices taken away and decisions made for her but through it all what made her who she was shone through.
With thanks to #NetGalley and Beautiful Sky Publishing for the ARC.
August 13, 2020
I received Emerging Butterfly through a Goodreads Giveaway.
Constance Jones is a true inspiration. The vicissitudes of her life are so compelling, tragic, and heartwarming. What I admired most if how she kept going. Yes, she'd dwell, maybe she has regrets, but she kept moving forward, hopefully to better things.
Constance Jones is a true inspiration. The vicissitudes of her life are so compelling, tragic, and heartwarming. What I admired most if how she kept going. Yes, she'd dwell, maybe she has regrets, but she kept moving forward, hopefully to better things.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews