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My Final Breath
A dead girl searching for her killer.
Twelve-year-old Molly suddenly wakes up dead in Limbo after spending four years in and out of hospital beds. Fearful of being forgotten by her family, she wants nothing more than to return to Earth, until her guardian exposes the grim truth about her demise.
Devastated, Molly learns everything she believed about her life and death was a lie. But the greatest blow arrives when Molly discovers she isn’t the only one who suffers from unexplained ailments.
Unable to reach the living, Molly can only hope for an intervention to prevent the same terrible consequence from happening again.
My Final Breath is a suspenseful psychological thriller about an intolerable offense ripping a family apart. If you like twisted tales of loyalty, deception, and intentional acts of evil then you will love this gripping story.
Twelve-year-old Molly suddenly wakes up dead in Limbo after spending four years in and out of hospital beds. Fearful of being forgotten by her family, she wants nothing more than to return to Earth, until her guardian exposes the grim truth about her demise.
Devastated, Molly learns everything she believed about her life and death was a lie. But the greatest blow arrives when Molly discovers she isn’t the only one who suffers from unexplained ailments.
Unable to reach the living, Molly can only hope for an intervention to prevent the same terrible consequence from happening again.
My Final Breath is a suspenseful psychological thriller about an intolerable offense ripping a family apart. If you like twisted tales of loyalty, deception, and intentional acts of evil then you will love this gripping story.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 24, 2020
1390 people are currently reading
6692 people want to read
About the author
Paige Dearth
14 books1,906 followersWebsite: https://paigedearth.com/
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3e86gp7
Facebook: https://bit.ly/2JS5M1D
Twitter: https://bit.ly/2v1sWgK
#1 Amazon bestselling author Paige Dearth is a survivor of child abuse. Through grit and pure determination she set out to provide a look inside the pain and suffering caused by childhood trauma through her novels.
Paige writes real-life horror and refers to her work as Fiction With Meaning. She hopes that her fictional stories will create awareness for prevention and intervention. Paige writes stories about young children who need to overcome adversity and then take you on their life’s journey. You will shed tears of joy, grief, rage, and horror. She wants her readers to be thinking about the story long after they have turned the last page.
Paige believes that society should not look the other way because a subject seems too difficult to handle and to remember that people live through these real-life horrors.
Paige lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with her husband Mike, and dog, Benny. Her debut novel, Believe Like A Child, was the catalyst for her writing platform. The beginning of Believe Like A Child is based on events from Paige’s childhood. Paige’s novels present a fine balance between what lives on in her imagination and the evil that lurks in the real world.
Paige’s favorite motto is:
“Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.”
~Benjamin Franklin
PAIGE'S STANDALONE NOVELS IN ORDER OF PUBLICATION:
Believe Like A Child
When Smiles Fade
One Among Us
Mean Little People
Never Be Alone
My Final Breath
RAINEY PAXTON SERIES:
A Little Pinprick (Book One)
A Little High (Book Two)
Girls Missing (Book Three)
Girls Found (Book Four)
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3e86gp7
Facebook: https://bit.ly/2JS5M1D
Twitter: https://bit.ly/2v1sWgK
#1 Amazon bestselling author Paige Dearth is a survivor of child abuse. Through grit and pure determination she set out to provide a look inside the pain and suffering caused by childhood trauma through her novels.
Paige writes real-life horror and refers to her work as Fiction With Meaning. She hopes that her fictional stories will create awareness for prevention and intervention. Paige writes stories about young children who need to overcome adversity and then take you on their life’s journey. You will shed tears of joy, grief, rage, and horror. She wants her readers to be thinking about the story long after they have turned the last page.
Paige believes that society should not look the other way because a subject seems too difficult to handle and to remember that people live through these real-life horrors.
Paige lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with her husband Mike, and dog, Benny. Her debut novel, Believe Like A Child, was the catalyst for her writing platform. The beginning of Believe Like A Child is based on events from Paige’s childhood. Paige’s novels present a fine balance between what lives on in her imagination and the evil that lurks in the real world.
Paige’s favorite motto is:
“Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.”
~Benjamin Franklin
PAIGE'S STANDALONE NOVELS IN ORDER OF PUBLICATION:
Believe Like A Child
When Smiles Fade
One Among Us
Mean Little People
Never Be Alone
My Final Breath
RAINEY PAXTON SERIES:
A Little Pinprick (Book One)
A Little High (Book Two)
Girls Missing (Book Three)
Girls Found (Book Four)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
November 1, 2020
Five Stars and Even More Hankies.
Limbo-Land.
After taking her last breath, twelve year old Molly wakes up in a place called Limbo. A step between her life and eternal peacefulness.
It’s a time of recollection as Molly looks back with the aid of her guide Gwen. Reconciling what she viewed as truth to what actually occurred, she’s given additional knowledge about her illness and the role of her mother.
This book is extreme. The words flew off the page and it was a quick read for me. On the other side of the spectrum, the subject matter was so sad and disturbing, I needed several breaks.
This was my first by this author and I thought her rendering of the afterlife was very imaginative. The love of Molly’s family for her, and her love for them, was heartbreaking in addition to her sorrow at never being able to grow up.
Trigger warnings for several mentions and graphic details of a Nazi Concentration Camp and a brutal slave rape during the Southern Plantation era.
Limbo-Land.
After taking her last breath, twelve year old Molly wakes up in a place called Limbo. A step between her life and eternal peacefulness.
It’s a time of recollection as Molly looks back with the aid of her guide Gwen. Reconciling what she viewed as truth to what actually occurred, she’s given additional knowledge about her illness and the role of her mother.
This book is extreme. The words flew off the page and it was a quick read for me. On the other side of the spectrum, the subject matter was so sad and disturbing, I needed several breaks.
This was my first by this author and I thought her rendering of the afterlife was very imaginative. The love of Molly’s family for her, and her love for them, was heartbreaking in addition to her sorrow at never being able to grow up.
Trigger warnings for several mentions and graphic details of a Nazi Concentration Camp and a brutal slave rape during the Southern Plantation era.
August 1, 2020
Told through the heartbreaking eyes of innocence, Paige Dearth’s MY FINAL BREATH is a brittle and brutal tale of abuse, mental illness and the selective blindness of adults to look into the unthinkable, to go beyond the surface until it was too late and a young girl was dead. It was from beyond the grave that Molly could finally tell her story, a story she did not even know the truth of until she was beyond help.
Paige Dearth has never shied away from writing in such a manner that makes readers uncomfortable, appalled, fearful and enraged. Her stories are shocking, eye-opening and raw. Molly’s story is no exception and while appropriate for young adult readers, this story is one that no adult should miss either.
Brilliantly told, the emotional pull is huge and if one child is spared, one adult helped, then she has done both her job, and a great service to the world.
I was invited to accept a complimentary copy from Fiction With Meaning, LLC! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publisher: Fiction With Meaning LLC (June 24, 2020)
Publication Date: June 24, 2020
Genre: YA Abuse
Print Length: 295 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Paige Dearth has never shied away from writing in such a manner that makes readers uncomfortable, appalled, fearful and enraged. Her stories are shocking, eye-opening and raw. Molly’s story is no exception and while appropriate for young adult readers, this story is one that no adult should miss either.
Brilliantly told, the emotional pull is huge and if one child is spared, one adult helped, then she has done both her job, and a great service to the world.
I was invited to accept a complimentary copy from Fiction With Meaning, LLC! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publisher: Fiction With Meaning LLC (June 24, 2020)
Publication Date: June 24, 2020
Genre: YA Abuse
Print Length: 295 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 16, 2020
Molly, after loosing her life, finds herself stacked in Limbo, in order to find peace she has to go through everything that lead her to her death. Gladly she won’t be alone while doing so, but she will be helped by her guardian Gwen.
This book is so powerful, bringing to light topics which I have to say could be difficult to digest. The author want to bring awareness around the Münchausen syndrome, and she does it perfectly describing what Molly and partially her sister go through. Other important topics as Slavery, Nazi concentration camps and homelessness are present even if not deeply explored as the syndrome, so if you don’t feel comfortable with any of those topics probably this isn’t the book for you.
The whole story is presented from Molly point of view and it’s heartbreaking reading how all her world get shuttered, how she loved unconditionally till the end the person that has killed her.
This book is so powerful, bringing to light topics which I have to say could be difficult to digest. The author want to bring awareness around the Münchausen syndrome, and she does it perfectly describing what Molly and partially her sister go through. Other important topics as Slavery, Nazi concentration camps and homelessness are present even if not deeply explored as the syndrome, so if you don’t feel comfortable with any of those topics probably this isn’t the book for you.
The whole story is presented from Molly point of view and it’s heartbreaking reading how all her world get shuttered, how she loved unconditionally till the end the person that has killed her.
March 20, 2021
My Final breath is a heartbreaking tale of unbelievable cruelty and devastating sadness. This was a difficult read because of the tragic subject matter. The story behind a tragic death unfolds in a creative, compelling and suspenseful way. A very intense and unsettling book. This story will stay with you long after the tearful conclusion. Thank you Goodreads for my copy.
Trigger Warning: Child Abuse
Trigger Warning: Child Abuse
June 28, 2020
Karma or Harvest
Molly does young and we watch as she is in Limbo. She learns things that she really never saw while alive and sick. Her mother is not what she seems. She learns what lead to her downfall.
During this time we get to see some past characters Joon and Lulu. Noon always keeps her word. She ask Joon to give her father her journal if/when she dies.
Watching and learning in Limbo what happens to Molly is but wrenching be sure to have tissues. Some people like Rona are pure evil to their core.
Molly journal serves it's purpose and saves someone close, and someone else faces Karma or is it Harvest. Live in hell Rona!
Molly does young and we watch as she is in Limbo. She learns things that she really never saw while alive and sick. Her mother is not what she seems. She learns what lead to her downfall.
During this time we get to see some past characters Joon and Lulu. Noon always keeps her word. She ask Joon to give her father her journal if/when she dies.
Watching and learning in Limbo what happens to Molly is but wrenching be sure to have tissues. Some people like Rona are pure evil to their core.
Molly journal serves it's purpose and saves someone close, and someone else faces Karma or is it Harvest. Live in hell Rona!
January 17, 2024
Breathtaking
I received this as an ARC to rate and review. This is my honest feedback,
Told in simplistic terms, “My Final Breath” by Paige Dearth, is a stunning story about the power of love and karma. The narrator is a pre-teen who comes to witness horrific events surrounding her life and the lives of her family. She meets several people who become pivotal figures. She experiences great love and even greater tragedy. This book is my first 5-star read for this year, and one I will not forget for a lifetime. Highly recommended for those who love mysteries, tragedies, and stunning endings.
I received this as an ARC to rate and review. This is my honest feedback,
Told in simplistic terms, “My Final Breath” by Paige Dearth, is a stunning story about the power of love and karma. The narrator is a pre-teen who comes to witness horrific events surrounding her life and the lives of her family. She meets several people who become pivotal figures. She experiences great love and even greater tragedy. This book is my first 5-star read for this year, and one I will not forget for a lifetime. Highly recommended for those who love mysteries, tragedies, and stunning endings.
September 7, 2020
What a heartbreaking story. The characters are incredible and so true to life. This was such a hard book to read, so hard to believe thus zxtually happens.
October 5, 2020
MY FINAL BREATH
BY PAIGE DEARTH
This author is known for raising her awareness about child abuse. That is a commendable quality to bring to fiction but I think that although Paige Dearth's mission is positive her new novel "My Final Breath was not an easy read for me. I am trying to expand my mind by taking on different subject matter but I must stop requesting depressing subject matter because it only lowers my vibrations and I would like to keep it high in peace and joy. This novel called "My Final Breath," was rather depressing and it is the first time that I have read this author. I am sure there is a multitude of other reviewer's out there by my noticing so many five star review's who will disagree with me and that is okay.
This novel covers the tough topic of Munchhausen Syndrome by Proxy and it was a very sad and bleak read for me. I do understand the author's desire to educate the population so that we will notice the signs and speak up if we witness or suspect a parent or caregiver doing this to an innocent and unsuspecting, incredulous child. That is my take away from the message of this novel so that we can advocate for a helpless and chronically sick child. See something say something. While I love to learn something new while reading I also want to be inspired and feel happy chemicals of dopamine and oxytocin chemicals being released by my brain while reading.
In this novel a mother named Rona is making her daughter Molly sick on purpose starting when Molly turned eight years old. Only we witness Molly looking down from a place of "Limbo," with another dead child who died in a concentration camp named Gwen. Molly dies at the age of twelve from kidney failure brought on my four years of her mother making her sick. Gwen's purpose is to be Molly's spiritual guide in between death and Molly must first understand how she was so sick and why she suffered for four years at the hands of a mother who Molly believed to love her. The only inspiration that I gleaned from reading this tale of twisted and sadistic actions is that Molly slowly accepts that it wasn't her fault and she had no reason to suspect that her mother was causing all of her four years of suffering. There were a multitude of medical tests and hospitalizations that were senseless.
There is a happily ever after but at what such a heartbreaking cost to Molly. Her own mother killed her and she lost out on so many of life's experiences. I am grateful that the chapters were short and that this was easily read in just a few hours. I am haunted by this and feel like this book was meant well but it is not one that I would read again or recommend to good friend's and family. But if this kind of book interests you by all means read it. Don't go by my opinion and I would never encourage anybody not to read a book that they wanted to read. On a final note this book did not remind me of Alice Sebold's at one time a favorite of mine called "The Lovely Bones." "The Lovely Bones," protagonist was murdered by a stranger not by her mother. As a mother I can't imagine doing what this mother did to her daughter in my wildest dreams. It sickens me that a mother could kill their own child or make them even a tiny bit uncomfortable on purpose. Again, I know that I am in the minority here among reviewer's who loved this so if you take away anything from this review realize that this is only my humble opinion in how depressing this was for me.
Publication Date: June 24, 2020
Thank you to Net Galley, Paige Dearth and Fiction With Meaning LLC Publishing for providing me with my ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
#MyFinalBreath #PaigeDearth #FictionWithMeaningLLCPublishing #NetGalley
BY PAIGE DEARTH
This author is known for raising her awareness about child abuse. That is a commendable quality to bring to fiction but I think that although Paige Dearth's mission is positive her new novel "My Final Breath was not an easy read for me. I am trying to expand my mind by taking on different subject matter but I must stop requesting depressing subject matter because it only lowers my vibrations and I would like to keep it high in peace and joy. This novel called "My Final Breath," was rather depressing and it is the first time that I have read this author. I am sure there is a multitude of other reviewer's out there by my noticing so many five star review's who will disagree with me and that is okay.
This novel covers the tough topic of Munchhausen Syndrome by Proxy and it was a very sad and bleak read for me. I do understand the author's desire to educate the population so that we will notice the signs and speak up if we witness or suspect a parent or caregiver doing this to an innocent and unsuspecting, incredulous child. That is my take away from the message of this novel so that we can advocate for a helpless and chronically sick child. See something say something. While I love to learn something new while reading I also want to be inspired and feel happy chemicals of dopamine and oxytocin chemicals being released by my brain while reading.
In this novel a mother named Rona is making her daughter Molly sick on purpose starting when Molly turned eight years old. Only we witness Molly looking down from a place of "Limbo," with another dead child who died in a concentration camp named Gwen. Molly dies at the age of twelve from kidney failure brought on my four years of her mother making her sick. Gwen's purpose is to be Molly's spiritual guide in between death and Molly must first understand how she was so sick and why she suffered for four years at the hands of a mother who Molly believed to love her. The only inspiration that I gleaned from reading this tale of twisted and sadistic actions is that Molly slowly accepts that it wasn't her fault and she had no reason to suspect that her mother was causing all of her four years of suffering. There were a multitude of medical tests and hospitalizations that were senseless.
There is a happily ever after but at what such a heartbreaking cost to Molly. Her own mother killed her and she lost out on so many of life's experiences. I am grateful that the chapters were short and that this was easily read in just a few hours. I am haunted by this and feel like this book was meant well but it is not one that I would read again or recommend to good friend's and family. But if this kind of book interests you by all means read it. Don't go by my opinion and I would never encourage anybody not to read a book that they wanted to read. On a final note this book did not remind me of Alice Sebold's at one time a favorite of mine called "The Lovely Bones." "The Lovely Bones," protagonist was murdered by a stranger not by her mother. As a mother I can't imagine doing what this mother did to her daughter in my wildest dreams. It sickens me that a mother could kill their own child or make them even a tiny bit uncomfortable on purpose. Again, I know that I am in the minority here among reviewer's who loved this so if you take away anything from this review realize that this is only my humble opinion in how depressing this was for me.
Publication Date: June 24, 2020
Thank you to Net Galley, Paige Dearth and Fiction With Meaning LLC Publishing for providing me with my ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
#MyFinalBreath #PaigeDearth #FictionWithMeaningLLCPublishing #NetGalley
September 26, 2023
This book was so powerful. It was an incredibly heavy read with all possible trigger warnings, but it was also so compelling. This story was heartbreaking. As readers, we know exactly what is going to happen within the first few chapters, but I could not stop reading. The book was well-written and had me constantly on the edge of my seat.
I docked a star because the dialogue wasn't believable at all for a twelve year old child. Additionally, there were two different rape scenes that only seemed to be there for shock value. I wish the author had written Molly as an older teenager instead. The dialogue would have been more appropriate for that age. Umm...also, I was also irritated with the medical professionals in this book(!!!).
This book was so unique and taught me quite a bit about Munchausen syndrome by proxy, which I really didn't know much about. Heartbreaking, but very well done. I would recommend this book.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway, so this book was given to me in exchange for an honest review!
I docked a star because the dialogue wasn't believable at all for a twelve year old child. Additionally, there were two different rape scenes that only seemed to be there for shock value. I wish the author had written Molly as an older teenager instead. The dialogue would have been more appropriate for that age. Umm...also, I was also irritated with the medical professionals in this book(!!!).
This book was so unique and taught me quite a bit about Munchausen syndrome by proxy, which I really didn't know much about. Heartbreaking, but very well done. I would recommend this book.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway, so this book was given to me in exchange for an honest review!
April 14, 2024
4.5 🌟
This is a reread (kind of). I started this book on kindle years ago but didn’t get far or finish it. I just CANNOT with ebooks.
But, it’s by Paige Dearth and I refuse to accept that she could write anything I do not love.
Now I have the paper copy and here we are. And guess what? I WAS RIGHT.
This book was quite different from her other books in the way it was written. It still brought awareness to child abuse, this time it was munchausen by proxy.
The execution of this book was so creative. It is told by Molly, who has recently died. Her spirit is stuck in limbo until she truly understands what happened to her in life and death.
With the help of her guide she looks back at her life and sees that her mom wasn’t the wonderful caretaker she wants everyone to believe she is.
Paige Dearth is an author that does not get enough recognition. Her books are difficult to read but I love them so much. She helps bring awareness to things that go on all around us.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
I have read and loved ALL of her books.
This is a reread (kind of). I started this book on kindle years ago but didn’t get far or finish it. I just CANNOT with ebooks.
But, it’s by Paige Dearth and I refuse to accept that she could write anything I do not love.
Now I have the paper copy and here we are. And guess what? I WAS RIGHT.
This book was quite different from her other books in the way it was written. It still brought awareness to child abuse, this time it was munchausen by proxy.
The execution of this book was so creative. It is told by Molly, who has recently died. Her spirit is stuck in limbo until she truly understands what happened to her in life and death.
With the help of her guide she looks back at her life and sees that her mom wasn’t the wonderful caretaker she wants everyone to believe she is.
Paige Dearth is an author that does not get enough recognition. Her books are difficult to read but I love them so much. She helps bring awareness to things that go on all around us.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
I have read and loved ALL of her books.
February 8, 2021
This was a very good read. Not many people want to approach the serious topic that is Munchausen by proxy and this book did a fantastic job.
My only complaint is that the writing was too mature for a 12 year old. It was jarring every time Molly would say something particularly mature.
My only complaint is that the writing was too mature for a 12 year old. It was jarring every time Molly would say something particularly mature.
July 28, 2020
Beautifully written considering the subject was so dark and painful. Molly is 12 years old when she died. She had been in and out of hospitals since she was 8. Doctors were baffled by her illnesses. After death Molly ends up in Limbo. She has a guardian friend Gwen, who died when she was just sixteen. Molly is able to look back at her life and discover why she was always so ill and who was responsible for that and for her death. I thought it was so well done, with such compassion.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 26, 2020
OMG!!!! I couldn't put this down, I was drawn in from the very beginning even knowing it would be heartbreaking.
I will never understand the evilness of some and the blindness of others!!! My heart was broken, but the ending was so worth it!!!!
I am a huge fan of Paige Dearth and have read all of her books. It takes a special person to write these types of books and a special reader who is willing to read with eyes wide open.
#MyFinalBreath, #NetGalley, #Evil, #Karma, #Limbo, #Molly, #Gwen,
I will never understand the evilness of some and the blindness of others!!! My heart was broken, but the ending was so worth it!!!!
I am a huge fan of Paige Dearth and have read all of her books. It takes a special person to write these types of books and a special reader who is willing to read with eyes wide open.
#MyFinalBreath, #NetGalley, #Evil, #Karma, #Limbo, #Molly, #Gwen,
July 8, 2020
Wow! Couldn't put it down!
I was hooked as soon as I started reading. I finished it in about three hours. I love all of her book and I like how she adds parts of other books in the story line. This book was sad, but had a great story line. I was sad to see it end.
I was hooked as soon as I started reading. I finished it in about three hours. I love all of her book and I like how she adds parts of other books in the story line. This book was sad, but had a great story line. I was sad to see it end.
July 7, 2020
Read this in a day!! Couldn’t put it down...
Good story line. Great author
Good story line. Great author
July 2, 2020
Another great book
This story kind of reminds me of a part in sixth sense but more inept i really enjoyed the parts about limbo heaven and hell i was so sad reading but i couldn't stop.
This story kind of reminds me of a part in sixth sense but more inept i really enjoyed the parts about limbo heaven and hell i was so sad reading but i couldn't stop.
November 16, 2020
Parts of this book were extremely and the ending had me so very emotional! Not your usual kind of thriller but just as thrilling. Definitely recommended and worth the read. I hope everyone read this as quickly as I did. I just wanted to take a day or so to complete a review without giving too much away. I was just blown away!
This book was like a screwed up and darker version of The Lovely Bones, which I loved, but it is so much more than that! This book has some tougher topics like sexual abuse, Nazi concentrations, and other kinds of abuse, which may be difficult for other readers. Molly is killed and is left in kind of a limbo and meets Gwen, who becomes like a Guardian Angel, Together they go though key segments in her life and Molly learns what is the truth versus what she thought at the time. She also learns more about her mom, who is a negligent alcoholic. She learns what drove her to alcoholism and what her mom has been dealing with and that she tried to be a mom as best as she could. You also learn about secondary people in Molly's life, what do they really mean to her? Why did these encounters happen?
Thanks to Netgalley, Paige Dearth And Fiction With Meaning LLC for an after published copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
Already available: 6/24/20
This book was like a screwed up and darker version of The Lovely Bones, which I loved, but it is so much more than that! This book has some tougher topics like sexual abuse, Nazi concentrations, and other kinds of abuse, which may be difficult for other readers. Molly is killed and is left in kind of a limbo and meets Gwen, who becomes like a Guardian Angel, Together they go though key segments in her life and Molly learns what is the truth versus what she thought at the time. She also learns more about her mom, who is a negligent alcoholic. She learns what drove her to alcoholism and what her mom has been dealing with and that she tried to be a mom as best as she could. You also learn about secondary people in Molly's life, what do they really mean to her? Why did these encounters happen?
Thanks to Netgalley, Paige Dearth And Fiction With Meaning LLC for an after published copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
Already available: 6/24/20
August 6, 2020
Stunning Book. This story really blew my mind. An emotional roller coaster from start to finish, and I’m so glad that I picked it up to have a read. What a great imagination Paige Dearth has, not that I was surprised after reading a few of her other wonderful stories previously. This one just really stood out.
Molly Roslin had a family that loved her, but unfortunately the twelve-year-old was really sick. Molly had spent so much of time in and out of hospital since she was an eight-year-old, and she just didn’t seem to be able to get better. Her mum has been her rock, constantly by her side offering support and taking really good care of her. However, it doesn’t seem to matter what special medicine she gave Molly, she just wasn’t improving. If Molly doesn’t get a kidney transplant, then the doctors don’t like her chances. I think I’ll remember this story for a long time to come. 5/5 Star Rating.
Molly Roslin had a family that loved her, but unfortunately the twelve-year-old was really sick. Molly had spent so much of time in and out of hospital since she was an eight-year-old, and she just didn’t seem to be able to get better. Her mum has been her rock, constantly by her side offering support and taking really good care of her. However, it doesn’t seem to matter what special medicine she gave Molly, she just wasn’t improving. If Molly doesn’t get a kidney transplant, then the doctors don’t like her chances. I think I’ll remember this story for a long time to come. 5/5 Star Rating.
July 23, 2020
I am a huge fan of Paige Dearth's books but I have to be honest, I was a bit apprehensive when it came to My Final Breath. I have a hard time getting in to books when it is told from the perspective of a dead person. In this case though, I quickly forgot and became absorbed in her story. Going through Molly's life and death at the hands of her mother with Munchausen by proxy disorder was heartbreaking. Munchausen and Munchausen by proxy is an interesting topic and Paige did not disappoint in capturing the reality of it.
One of my favorite things about her books is that while they are all stand alone, characters from other books cross-over. I was thrilled to see that happen here as well. I won't say who so as not to spoil it. :-) But I was happy so see them!
One of my favorite things about her books is that while they are all stand alone, characters from other books cross-over. I was thrilled to see that happen here as well. I won't say who so as not to spoil it. :-) But I was happy so see them!
November 6, 2020
This story deals with Munchausen syndrome as you can tell from the get go.
Just couldn't get into the 12 year old narrating it. Some things she said didn't come across how a 12 year old would word things.
I was excited to get this as saw great reviews.
It just wasn't for me.
Thanks to the Author, the publisher and NetGalley for an early release of this book.
Just couldn't get into the 12 year old narrating it. Some things she said didn't come across how a 12 year old would word things.
I was excited to get this as saw great reviews.
It just wasn't for me.
Thanks to the Author, the publisher and NetGalley for an early release of this book.
July 27, 2020
I’ve read several books by author Paige Dearth, so when she emailed me asking if I’d be interested in reading Her Final Breath, I jumped at the chance! She writes books about topics that may be hard for some people to read but I like them because I believe they bring so much awareness to the public. I think the fact that Paige herself was a victim of child abuse is why she has chosen to write these types of stories, hoping that by making others see what it’s like, might in some small way, make it better for others. Her books cover abuse, homelessness and many other topics. This particular story with Molly Roslin, is about Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy. It’s told mainly from Molly’s point of view after she has died and has moved on to Limbo, a place you go to before you go to Heaven. There with the help of Gwen, her guardian, she learns the complete truth as to how she died and that it was at the hands of her mother who was a very mentally sick woman. This was very hard at first for Molly to believe because when she was living, she loved and adored her mother. I’ve read other books recently that covered this same topic, but the way this story is written, it made it easier for me to imagine what these people are like with this sickness. The mother really has no empathy and only cares about herself and what attention she can receive. I was very pleased with the way the book ended and I’m sure other readers will like it too. This is a book I can’t recommend enough. Honestly, for someone who is afraid of dying like myself, it made me feel a little better about my own demise. I only hope that it’s something close to the way the author has depicted it in this story. I’d like to thank author Paige Dearth for the invitation and NetGalley for the arc to read and review. All opinions are my own. I’ve got to give this a 5 star rating!
September 28, 2023
This book just was not for me, but it may be for you.
This book is full of triggers and this review will mention a few including:
TW- rape & abuse.
Here is what I liked:
✨I enjoyed Molly’s story and her coming to grips with her mother murdering her. Sorry for the major spoiler right off the bat, but the author pretty quickly gives away that Molly’s mom, Rona, murdered Molly.
✨Joon and Lulu
✨The ending for Mama
✨The idea and description of Limbo
✨The Veronica plot
✨Even though I had some major issues with the book that made me want to put it down, I became so attached to Molly and scared for Ava that I needed to know what happened. I physically could not put the book down (or close my iPad).
Here is what I didn’t like:
-🍅The graphic Holocaust gas chamber murder.
-🍅Betsey, a Southern Slave’s, brutal rape and murder. Betsey is around 17 at the time.
-🍅Gwen (Molly’s guardian), a Jewish girl in Auschwitz is raped by a guard.
-🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅 I could almost get past the first three issues above, if the rapes and murders were not being shown to a 12 year old girl. To show that no matter how bad things were on earth things can get better in Limbo? Or that you can still learn to love? Absolutely not. In my mind there were other ways that a 12 year old could be reasoned with and helping her grieve what she thought her life was. This is one area where telling, not showing would have been better. Since the above events were interspersed throughout the book, I kept feeling pulled out of Molly’s perspective, because all I could think is “she is supposed to be 12?!?”
Unfortunately, these issues really caused me to dislike the book and struggle to enjoy the rest of it despite all of the things that I adored about the book.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from a Goodreads Giveaway. I appreciated the opportunity to read this book. While this book was not for me, I hope to read another one of Dearth’s books in the future as I appreciate her mission to shine light on child abuse.
This book is full of triggers and this review will mention a few including:
TW- rape & abuse.
Here is what I liked:
✨I enjoyed Molly’s story and her coming to grips with her mother murdering her. Sorry for the major spoiler right off the bat, but the author pretty quickly gives away that Molly’s mom, Rona, murdered Molly.
✨Joon and Lulu
✨The ending for Mama
✨The idea and description of Limbo
✨The Veronica plot
✨Even though I had some major issues with the book that made me want to put it down, I became so attached to Molly and scared for Ava that I needed to know what happened. I physically could not put the book down (or close my iPad).
Here is what I didn’t like:
-🍅The graphic Holocaust gas chamber murder.
-🍅Betsey, a Southern Slave’s, brutal rape and murder. Betsey is around 17 at the time.
-🍅Gwen (Molly’s guardian), a Jewish girl in Auschwitz is raped by a guard.
-🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅 I could almost get past the first three issues above, if the rapes and murders were not being shown to a 12 year old girl. To show that no matter how bad things were on earth things can get better in Limbo? Or that you can still learn to love? Absolutely not. In my mind there were other ways that a 12 year old could be reasoned with and helping her grieve what she thought her life was. This is one area where telling, not showing would have been better. Since the above events were interspersed throughout the book, I kept feeling pulled out of Molly’s perspective, because all I could think is “she is supposed to be 12?!?”
Unfortunately, these issues really caused me to dislike the book and struggle to enjoy the rest of it despite all of the things that I adored about the book.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from a Goodreads Giveaway. I appreciated the opportunity to read this book. While this book was not for me, I hope to read another one of Dearth’s books in the future as I appreciate her mission to shine light on child abuse.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2020
This was my second book from Paige Dearth, so I was prepared about what I was going to get. I like this author because she writes about difficult topics, in a direct and involving manner, and she's really good in expressing the feelings and the situations.
I wouldn't have chosen to read that book only by the blurb, if I didn't know the author, but I was sure she would find a way to close in a satisfying manner even such a sad and enraging story.
What I loved is that even through the worst situations I was still feeling hope.. and rage and a huge sense of powerlessness, but also hope.
What made me decide to give it only four stars instead of five is that the story felt too long, as if the material would have been better suited to a short story, but I totally understand the need to make it into a full book. Maybe it was even intentional because the sense of dragging on without being able to get to "the point" reflected exactly the feeling of the MC so in a way it made sense.
The ending was satisfying and even if it was a thought read it still was a very good experience
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for giving me ARC of that book in exchange for an honest review.
I wouldn't have chosen to read that book only by the blurb, if I didn't know the author, but I was sure she would find a way to close in a satisfying manner even such a sad and enraging story.
What I loved is that even through the worst situations I was still feeling hope.. and rage and a huge sense of powerlessness, but also hope.
What made me decide to give it only four stars instead of five is that the story felt too long, as if the material would have been better suited to a short story, but I totally understand the need to make it into a full book. Maybe it was even intentional because the sense of dragging on without being able to get to "the point" reflected exactly the feeling of the MC so in a way it made sense.
The ending was satisfying and even if it was a thought read it still was a very good experience
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for giving me ARC of that book in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2020
This is an unusual story that takes you deep into the mind of a young woman who has died. The author does a great job of defining the characters and describing their behaviors. Be prepared to become very emotionally involved as she investigates the life she has experienced. You will experience great relief as the pieces begin to come together. The writing is smooth and easy to read.. The style is simple and direct, guiding the reader through some difficult times. Molly is guided in her review by a woman who died in a Nazi gas chamber, and we get to experience that death with her as the story unfolds. Just about every person in Molly's life experiences pain and suffering. .This book provides an experience for the reader that will stay long after the reading is over.
August 14, 2020
An honest look at the past... by a 12 year old girl...
Twelve year old Molly has been ill for four years. After constant medicines and even surgeries, she loses the fight.
Molly ends up in Limbo and meets her Guide - Gwen. Gwen had died during WW2 in a concentration camp gassing.. Now, Molly needs to relook at her past - with the help of Gwen - to find the truth of how/why she was ill. And how this ultimately led to her untimely death.
Although I am not familiar with this author, I took the chance to review this book - and I am glad that I did.
This read is not your normal horror/domestic thriller /suspense story. A dark premise leads to an intellectually challenging and solid story.
I had no problem keeping interest or reading quickly!
Thanks to Fiction and Meaning, LLC and NetGalley for a thought-provoking book.
Twelve year old Molly has been ill for four years. After constant medicines and even surgeries, she loses the fight.
Molly ends up in Limbo and meets her Guide - Gwen. Gwen had died during WW2 in a concentration camp gassing.. Now, Molly needs to relook at her past - with the help of Gwen - to find the truth of how/why she was ill. And how this ultimately led to her untimely death.
Although I am not familiar with this author, I took the chance to review this book - and I am glad that I did.
This read is not your normal horror/domestic thriller /suspense story. A dark premise leads to an intellectually challenging and solid story.
I had no problem keeping interest or reading quickly!
Thanks to Fiction and Meaning, LLC and NetGalley for a thought-provoking book.
July 29, 2020
Wow. This was a really rough read for me. I have 3 wonderful sons and couldn’t in my wildest nightmare imagine ever hurting them. There were times I had to stop reading, due to being upset or teary eyed. That being said it was written so well, I had to keep reading. Paige Dearth, due to her unfortunate upbringing, is amazing at making you feel the pain that comes with abuse. Whether it’s physical abuse, mental abuse, or Munchausen’s Syndrome you are feeling everything that is going on in her books. Hopefully this book will do some good someday with the knowledge of it.
October 31, 2024
It was not the best of her books as I absolutely loved her others and can’t wait for this author to release more, but it was very good. For me I think it was just the fact that reading it from a dead girls pov didn’t carry the same kind of page turning thrill the other books had. But definitely still worth a read
September 21, 2022
FANTASTIC story🤗
This story was so moving, heartbreaking, disturbing and interesting!!!. I DO NOT understand how a mother that has given birth to her own child can do something like this to them😪😥. Absolutely OUTRAGEOUS!!!. I have seen in movies about this and still could not understand how it could happen!!!. Paige is a FANTASTIC storyteller and is a PHENOMENAL writer!!.
This story was so moving, heartbreaking, disturbing and interesting!!!. I DO NOT understand how a mother that has given birth to her own child can do something like this to them😪😥. Absolutely OUTRAGEOUS!!!. I have seen in movies about this and still could not understand how it could happen!!!. Paige is a FANTASTIC storyteller and is a PHENOMENAL writer!!.
September 18, 2021
I just read an amazing book that is so riveting I just couldn't put it down. It's sad that things like this really happen to children. Paige Dearth is definitely an author to read again.
June 19, 2025
Loved this series so much!!! The last book was very different from the rest but still good!!
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