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Whole Again: Love, Life And Me
As one of the most recognisable faces in showbiz today, Kerry Katona has seen more than her fair share of ups and downs played out in public.
Once labelled ‘the nation’s sweetheart,’ the Atomic Kitten singer rose from foster care to international stardom, but soon found herself judged and ridiculed as mental health problems and bad decisions derailed her life.
From a picture perfect yet fractured marriage to one of the biggest pop stars in the world, to her fall from grace in a haze of drink and drugs while wed to her taxi driving second husband, Kerry has been loved and derided in equal measure. But since her bestselling autobiography was released in 2012, which documented her troubled childhood and subsequent life in the limelight, Kerry has faced her most devastating challenges yet.
In this riveting read, Kerry documents how, in the decade since, she’s welcomed her fifth child, suffered a debilitating injury, a cancer scare, several tragic losses and a career slump she thought she’d never recover from. Yet the most significant event in that time was her marriage to third husband, George Kay.
Stuck in an abusive relationship she felt powerless to leave, Kerry opens up about her struggles living with a violent man, whose mental health problems and drug use would see her and her family trapped in a cycle of helplessness and despair that only ended when George died in 2019, having eaten a sock filled with cocaine while staying in a local Travel Inn. Kerry bravely reveals her hell at the hands of a man who would unleash physical and emotional torture on her, in an all too familiar situation so many women face every day.
But this is also a story of hope, strength and survival. Of how Kerry, with the support of her now -fiancé Ryan and her children, built herself up from the lowest point imaginable, with sheer grit and determination, to get her life and career back on track in the wake of such devastation. It’s a story of survival and peace and how, after years of desperately trying to find her way, she has finally started to feel – in the words of her most famous song –Whole Again.
Once labelled ‘the nation’s sweetheart,’ the Atomic Kitten singer rose from foster care to international stardom, but soon found herself judged and ridiculed as mental health problems and bad decisions derailed her life.
From a picture perfect yet fractured marriage to one of the biggest pop stars in the world, to her fall from grace in a haze of drink and drugs while wed to her taxi driving second husband, Kerry has been loved and derided in equal measure. But since her bestselling autobiography was released in 2012, which documented her troubled childhood and subsequent life in the limelight, Kerry has faced her most devastating challenges yet.
In this riveting read, Kerry documents how, in the decade since, she’s welcomed her fifth child, suffered a debilitating injury, a cancer scare, several tragic losses and a career slump she thought she’d never recover from. Yet the most significant event in that time was her marriage to third husband, George Kay.
Stuck in an abusive relationship she felt powerless to leave, Kerry opens up about her struggles living with a violent man, whose mental health problems and drug use would see her and her family trapped in a cycle of helplessness and despair that only ended when George died in 2019, having eaten a sock filled with cocaine while staying in a local Travel Inn. Kerry bravely reveals her hell at the hands of a man who would unleash physical and emotional torture on her, in an all too familiar situation so many women face every day.
But this is also a story of hope, strength and survival. Of how Kerry, with the support of her now -fiancé Ryan and her children, built herself up from the lowest point imaginable, with sheer grit and determination, to get her life and career back on track in the wake of such devastation. It’s a story of survival and peace and how, after years of desperately trying to find her way, she has finally started to feel – in the words of her most famous song –Whole Again.
- GenresNonfictionBiography
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2022
21 people are currently reading
81 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 12, 2024
A moving story about surviving hardships. The author is brave and honest for sharing her struggles. The writing however, wasn’t the best. She was also jumping a bit too much when it came to the timeline.
September 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Now that is an autobiography. I was first intrigued by Kerry after seeing her on Celebs Go Dating and hearing her interview with Paul Brunson on the We Need to Talk podcast. I’m ashamed to admit that before that, all I knew about Kerry was stuff I’d heard when I was very young from the headlines. Kerry is a woman who really has her life sorted out, is a successful businesswoman, loving mother and true champion of humour and fun. Unfortunately, Kerry’s life hasn’t always been as good as it is now. Raised in foster care, Kerry has always had a complex family set up. Kerry has experienced a life of abuse, neglect and exploitation. She’s had to single handedly bring up most of her children, and has managed to do so while working and creating business. I was shocked to hear of some of the severity of abuse that Kerry had experienced - this is far more than domestic violence. Kerry’s narration is so eloquent and respectful to all of her exes, even George, who made her life a living hell for a lot of it. Kerry is a fantastic example of how we shouldn’t believe everything we read, and we should also remember that anyone can change. Everyone deserves a second chance and redemption, although, this shouldn’t be necessary because other people’s ‘wrongdoings’ are nobody else’s business.
Now that is an autobiography. I was first intrigued by Kerry after seeing her on Celebs Go Dating and hearing her interview with Paul Brunson on the We Need to Talk podcast. I’m ashamed to admit that before that, all I knew about Kerry was stuff I’d heard when I was very young from the headlines. Kerry is a woman who really has her life sorted out, is a successful businesswoman, loving mother and true champion of humour and fun. Unfortunately, Kerry’s life hasn’t always been as good as it is now. Raised in foster care, Kerry has always had a complex family set up. Kerry has experienced a life of abuse, neglect and exploitation. She’s had to single handedly bring up most of her children, and has managed to do so while working and creating business. I was shocked to hear of some of the severity of abuse that Kerry had experienced - this is far more than domestic violence. Kerry’s narration is so eloquent and respectful to all of her exes, even George, who made her life a living hell for a lot of it. Kerry is a fantastic example of how we shouldn’t believe everything we read, and we should also remember that anyone can change. Everyone deserves a second chance and redemption, although, this shouldn’t be necessary because other people’s ‘wrongdoings’ are nobody else’s business.
January 21, 2025
I've always been a fan of Kerry, albeit a polarising figure in the world of celebrity but this book has made me even more fond of her. My jaw hit the ground in parts where she went into detail regarding the abuse she suffered at the hands of George. Really shocking!
But in true Kerry style this is also laced with great humour. You don't need to be a fan to read this book; it will get to you on the basic human level
But in true Kerry style this is also laced with great humour. You don't need to be a fan to read this book; it will get to you on the basic human level
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2026
Kerry is a very bright and funny lady and has had the most dreadful life. this book is harrowing and I'm glad she's still with us
November 9, 2025
I reallyyy love a good celebrity memoir, with a complicated, authentic author who truly owns their story and has the courage (and, as a bonus, maybe the clarity or earned insight) to bring us on their messy human journey, even if it’s ongoing.
An undeniably fascinating life, with decades of public highs and lows. BRUTAL honesty and transparency when it comes to her experiences of abuse, addiction, grief/loss, self-image, and so much more. It had all the ingredients to be so good, but it failed miserably, because it is so so utterly chaotic!
The story of her life in general is chaotic, yes, as is her interpretation of that life. But it’s the editorial chaos on top of this narrative that makes this book so unenjoyable. My head was literally spinning at the end!
An undeniably fascinating life, with decades of public highs and lows. BRUTAL honesty and transparency when it comes to her experiences of abuse, addiction, grief/loss, self-image, and so much more. It had all the ingredients to be so good, but it failed miserably, because it is so so utterly chaotic!
The story of her life in general is chaotic, yes, as is her interpretation of that life. But it’s the editorial chaos on top of this narrative that makes this book so unenjoyable. My head was literally spinning at the end!
December 11, 2024
I listened to it on audiobook and I think that ruined it for me slightly as it was in her voice which is really irritating! There’s also some really sad parts where she talks about George’s death but she snivels the whole way through it which is really annoying!
September 4, 2023
I have read all of Kerry Katona’s autobiographies. Some people can be snobby about this but there is no doubt she has led an interesting life and is very honest about it.
This book was no different until the last couple of chapters where it became this weird ode to religion and crackpot theories. The moment she compared her spirituality to buying a bikini I stopped reading.
What had started as a really honest memoir of dealing with domestic violence became this gimmicky advertisement for her products and opinions.
This book was no different until the last couple of chapters where it became this weird ode to religion and crackpot theories. The moment she compared her spirituality to buying a bikini I stopped reading.
What had started as a really honest memoir of dealing with domestic violence became this gimmicky advertisement for her products and opinions.
March 16, 2024
Memoir Queen.
When i read Kerry's first book Too Much Too Young back in 2005 it has since been by far my favourite autobiography. The book really touched me especially when she 'met' Molly and I was taken aback as she told of her shocking childhood.
I didn't buy her first book because i was a fan of her or Atomic Kitten, i just like reading auto biographies.
However, the book instantly made me a fan of her! She is just a wonderful human being so i continue to follow her life story.
Whole Again also completely shocked me as Kerry continues to tell her story. It begins and takes a good chunk of the book about her recent relationship prior to her current partner.
I listened to this on Audible and as soon as i finished it i immediately ordered the hardbook copy as i so wanted this in my collection alongside her previous 2 memoirs.
She narrates this beautifully, her voice is amazing as she delivers her tone to perfection.
Nothing is repeated in this book from her first autobiography, there are just small mentions from her further past. So here the reader is receiving a continuation of Kerry's life, all new all revealing.
Kerry seriously bares her soul once again leaving no holds barred. I was quite surprised at the depth of detail that she reveals about her recent past events and current life. It goes to show that she doesn't care what people think about her choices and beliefs. This shows just how proud and strong she is as a person.
She shows no bias to those whom have wronged her as she tells us their good sides too despite the dominant bad qualities of their personalities.
Kerry has real empathy for all those around her especially with the family of her abusive narcissistic ex partner. There's no talking ill of the dead or feeling relief from his death. She's all about being concerned for their Daughter and his unfortunate mental downfall, despite the horrors Kerry endured.
The final third of the book goes onto other subjects of her recent life after her ex's death and then into her current life. She also doesn't shy away from her successes, she tells it with absolute pride showing that she is miles away from having low self esteem. Kerry completely believes her self worth and I as the reader absolutely believes and sees this too.
I was surprised at how much she tells regardless of any potential consequences from certain groups with strong opposing views or trolls that would seek the opportunity to easily spit their venom.
Kerry's a brave soul who deserves so much respect. She's so down to earth with how she speaks and lives her life above nobody, she's considerate to all people including her enemies having much empathy, she's kind to all not wanting to cause trouble, she's understanding especially to those who oppose her, and she is loving at which she reveals no-one more than her five children.
Kerry openly reveals a lot of her views, beliefs and fears. Topics including the covid vax (which i agree with), religion, death and manifestation.
There's so much to read in this fantastic memoir furthermore including her health anxiety episode exploring her dark hour and again her empathy showing by having this scare coincide with her feelings for Sara Harding's tragic passing.
And also how a happy shopping trip with her children ended with her chasing after a car thief taking off with her car in the store car park and what she did for her children after this event.
Kerry Katona you are amazing!
Aside from her story, as with the previous books, the writing is excellent, written to perfection, books that i can't put down as every single page does not let go of me.
When i read Kerry's first book Too Much Too Young back in 2005 it has since been by far my favourite autobiography. The book really touched me especially when she 'met' Molly and I was taken aback as she told of her shocking childhood.
I didn't buy her first book because i was a fan of her or Atomic Kitten, i just like reading auto biographies.
However, the book instantly made me a fan of her! She is just a wonderful human being so i continue to follow her life story.
Whole Again also completely shocked me as Kerry continues to tell her story. It begins and takes a good chunk of the book about her recent relationship prior to her current partner.
I listened to this on Audible and as soon as i finished it i immediately ordered the hardbook copy as i so wanted this in my collection alongside her previous 2 memoirs.
She narrates this beautifully, her voice is amazing as she delivers her tone to perfection.
Nothing is repeated in this book from her first autobiography, there are just small mentions from her further past. So here the reader is receiving a continuation of Kerry's life, all new all revealing.
Kerry seriously bares her soul once again leaving no holds barred. I was quite surprised at the depth of detail that she reveals about her recent past events and current life. It goes to show that she doesn't care what people think about her choices and beliefs. This shows just how proud and strong she is as a person.
She shows no bias to those whom have wronged her as she tells us their good sides too despite the dominant bad qualities of their personalities.
Kerry has real empathy for all those around her especially with the family of her abusive narcissistic ex partner. There's no talking ill of the dead or feeling relief from his death. She's all about being concerned for their Daughter and his unfortunate mental downfall, despite the horrors Kerry endured.
The final third of the book goes onto other subjects of her recent life after her ex's death and then into her current life. She also doesn't shy away from her successes, she tells it with absolute pride showing that she is miles away from having low self esteem. Kerry completely believes her self worth and I as the reader absolutely believes and sees this too.
I was surprised at how much she tells regardless of any potential consequences from certain groups with strong opposing views or trolls that would seek the opportunity to easily spit their venom.
Kerry's a brave soul who deserves so much respect. She's so down to earth with how she speaks and lives her life above nobody, she's considerate to all people including her enemies having much empathy, she's kind to all not wanting to cause trouble, she's understanding especially to those who oppose her, and she is loving at which she reveals no-one more than her five children.
Kerry openly reveals a lot of her views, beliefs and fears. Topics including the covid vax (which i agree with), religion, death and manifestation.
There's so much to read in this fantastic memoir furthermore including her health anxiety episode exploring her dark hour and again her empathy showing by having this scare coincide with her feelings for Sara Harding's tragic passing.
And also how a happy shopping trip with her children ended with her chasing after a car thief taking off with her car in the store car park and what she did for her children after this event.
Kerry Katona you are amazing!
Aside from her story, as with the previous books, the writing is excellent, written to perfection, books that i can't put down as every single page does not let go of me.
September 14, 2024
Kerry’s latest autobiography serves as her third instalment in her book collection and is the rawest account yet which I found it to be both refreshing and impactful.
As expected, Kerry’s signature humour is woven throughout the book, adding a personal touch that fans will appreciate. Her ability to blend humour with vulnerability brings a balance that makes this autobiography feel real and approachable. She’s also able to poke fun at herself and make light of lots throughout.
That said, ‘Whole Again’ does come with a significant trigger warning. A large portion of the book focuses on her relationship with her late husband, George, and the abuse she and her family endured during the marriage and the after-effects. The detailed accounts of the physical and emotional trauma she experienced and the ongoing effects even after George’s death are incredibly heavy and often harrowing to read. Much like Mel B’s story in ‘Brutally Honest’, it’s an unflinchingly honest portrayal of domestic abuse, and while it’s important for education and awareness, be prepared for some difficult moments.
As a reader, it’s easy to wonder why Kerry didn’t leave earlier, especially given the cruelty she and her children faced. However, she explains the complexities of codependency, abuse and the fear that victims often feel about leaving, which adds a powerful layer of understanding. Kerry does her best to give readers a glimpse into her mindset during those times, explaining how her traumatic upbringing played a role in her choices. She reminds us that it’s her version of the story and handles it with as much respect as possible.
One of the standout aspects of the book is Kerry’s accountability. She doesn’t shy away from recognising when she could have handled situations differently, showing a deep level of self-reflection and growth. It’s clear that she’s healing, and her openness about the lessons she’s learned from her own behaviour during times of trauma is something many readers will find relatable and inspiring.
Overall, Kerry’s latest chapter is a deeply personal and important read. Kerry’s vulnerability and resilience shine through, and her ability to reflect on her journey with such honesty is a testament to her strength.
As expected, Kerry’s signature humour is woven throughout the book, adding a personal touch that fans will appreciate. Her ability to blend humour with vulnerability brings a balance that makes this autobiography feel real and approachable. She’s also able to poke fun at herself and make light of lots throughout.
That said, ‘Whole Again’ does come with a significant trigger warning. A large portion of the book focuses on her relationship with her late husband, George, and the abuse she and her family endured during the marriage and the after-effects. The detailed accounts of the physical and emotional trauma she experienced and the ongoing effects even after George’s death are incredibly heavy and often harrowing to read. Much like Mel B’s story in ‘Brutally Honest’, it’s an unflinchingly honest portrayal of domestic abuse, and while it’s important for education and awareness, be prepared for some difficult moments.
As a reader, it’s easy to wonder why Kerry didn’t leave earlier, especially given the cruelty she and her children faced. However, she explains the complexities of codependency, abuse and the fear that victims often feel about leaving, which adds a powerful layer of understanding. Kerry does her best to give readers a glimpse into her mindset during those times, explaining how her traumatic upbringing played a role in her choices. She reminds us that it’s her version of the story and handles it with as much respect as possible.
One of the standout aspects of the book is Kerry’s accountability. She doesn’t shy away from recognising when she could have handled situations differently, showing a deep level of self-reflection and growth. It’s clear that she’s healing, and her openness about the lessons she’s learned from her own behaviour during times of trauma is something many readers will find relatable and inspiring.
Overall, Kerry’s latest chapter is a deeply personal and important read. Kerry’s vulnerability and resilience shine through, and her ability to reflect on her journey with such honesty is a testament to her strength.
April 22, 2023
I’ve never really been a fan of Kerry Katona, as I've always found her to be quite full of herself. But I picked this up in my local library and thought I'd give it a read. I'm aware she came from an underprivileged background and has had a rough childhood. Which, has clearly had an impact on her growing up and not always making the right choices in life or picking the right choice of men. She documents her violent relationship with the late George Kay. Which in most parts of the book, I was incredibly frustrated that she put up the violence, drug taking and domestic abuse. Especially, having children in the house! It was an insightful, interesting and at times disturbing read. I'm still not a huge fan of Kerry, as in some parts of the book, she comes across as quite full of her own importance and how she's always "grafted". However I am happy she has turned her life around and is getting the therapy she deserves. Everyone deserves to be happy, so good on her and may it continue!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2022
Much as I enjoyed reading this memoir I found it hard to understand why Kerry kept making the same mistakes when it came to the men in her life. And why she allowed her situation to impact badly on her children. I can see why her eldest daughter chose to live with her grandparents in Ireland. It has taken her a long time to learn from her experiences and hopefully she will go forward and not slide back.
January 6, 2023
Wow just wow.
I have always liked Kerry and I think she has proven herself over the years, admitted she had problems and got the help...
I'm so glad I've read this book, and not realising everything she went through with her 3rd husband George, she has definitely become a stronger woman..
People shouldn't believe everything the papers write.
I have always liked Kerry and I think she has proven herself over the years, admitted she had problems and got the help...
I'm so glad I've read this book, and not realising everything she went through with her 3rd husband George, she has definitely become a stronger woman..
People shouldn't believe everything the papers write.
December 12, 2023
3.5 ⭐
An insightful, interesting and at times disturbing read.
An easy to read, quick read about her struggles with men and the domestic violence she suffered with George.
Enjoyed the 1st half however I felt the 2nd half drifted slightly.
Would recommend to fans of Kerry 💕
An insightful, interesting and at times disturbing read.
An easy to read, quick read about her struggles with men and the domestic violence she suffered with George.
Enjoyed the 1st half however I felt the 2nd half drifted slightly.
Would recommend to fans of Kerry 💕
November 9, 2022
Loved this
January 14, 2023
As always brilliant read, and so honest i bloody love this lady x
March 7, 2023
great read
Completely engrossed, wonderful to see Kerry turn her life around and finally be happy
In life. Gripping, heart felt and honest
Completely engrossed, wonderful to see Kerry turn her life around and finally be happy
In life. Gripping, heart felt and honest
April 21, 2023
Not a bad read but I was a bit bored towards the end, feel like she keeps going for the same type and dosent really learn from it
August 7, 2023
Brilliant book
Kerry Katrina your such an inspiration so glad you are happy now
You deserve to be so live live and laugh
Kerry Katrina your such an inspiration so glad you are happy now
You deserve to be so live live and laugh
September 1, 2023
Amazing book
Read this book in 2 days .... brilliant read .. so hard to hear some bits ... respect for kerry x
Read this book in 2 days .... brilliant read .. so hard to hear some bits ... respect for kerry x
September 4, 2023
She’s marmite but I love marmite! You can never take away from her that she is a fighter and always gets back up!!
September 10, 2023
Enjoyed Kerrys honest and open look at her life
October 29, 2024
I’ve not read any of Kerry’s other books and didn’t really know much about her life. I was fond of her in the I’m a celeb days, but after that infamous interview I didn’t take much more notice of her. I’m glad she is happier now. I listened to this on audio and she was engaging and I felt her pain when she was tearing up. If you can learn anything from this, it would be don’t introduce a new relationship to your kids until you truly know them, she definitely does this too quickly.
January 3, 2025
I appreciated Kerry’s candour and honesty, she has been through a lot.
October 30, 2025
Absolutely fabulous. A truly emotional reading.
January 24, 2026
Kerry has really been through some trauma and it was mostly covered in this book. Rating 4* as the last few chapters were just a bit unnecessary and just fillers.
January 19, 2024
Kerry Katona, once a member of the pop girl group The Atomic Kitten, gives a brutal inside to the abuse she has suffered at the hands of her third husband George Kay and the effect it had on her children. Stuck in an abusive relationship, she felt powerless to leave, trapped in the cycle of despair which only came to an end, when her husband was found dead aged 39.
Kerry has seen more than her fair share of ups and downs played out in the public. Rising from foster care to international fame, hoping to find love, has been shattered over and over. Marriages to Brian McFadden and Mark Croft ended in divorce.
I understand that reading out your own book can bring up a lot of emotions, but I found the nasal noises rather annoying. There is no denying she is lucky to be alive, and it was harrowing to listen to parts of her story.
It’s good to see that she is now in a happy relationship with her now-fiance Ryan, and you have to applaud her determination. Single mum, dealing with bankruptcy, failing relationships, and yet, she never fails to pick herself up again.
Kerry has seen more than her fair share of ups and downs played out in the public. Rising from foster care to international fame, hoping to find love, has been shattered over and over. Marriages to Brian McFadden and Mark Croft ended in divorce.
I understand that reading out your own book can bring up a lot of emotions, but I found the nasal noises rather annoying. There is no denying she is lucky to be alive, and it was harrowing to listen to parts of her story.
It’s good to see that she is now in a happy relationship with her now-fiance Ryan, and you have to applaud her determination. Single mum, dealing with bankruptcy, failing relationships, and yet, she never fails to pick herself up again.
October 16, 2023
This was mainly about the abuse Kerry suffered at the hands of her husband George Kay, and the effect it had on her children. It was very honest as is typical of Kerry. I read it as I am covering it for an upcoming episode of my podcast, IPV and Me, which is about my journey with domestic abuse and the stories of other brave survivors. Listen here: https://media.rss.com/ipvandme/feed.xml
June 4, 2024
Audiobook read by Kerry Katona.
I had to speed her up a bit as she reads very slowly, but the emotion in her voice as she was telling me about the ups and downs of her life was tear-jerking. It's difficult to rate an autobiography - it's someone's life after all, so I'm going for 3 stars for this interesting delve into a celebrity's life and loves.
I had to speed her up a bit as she reads very slowly, but the emotion in her voice as she was telling me about the ups and downs of her life was tear-jerking. It's difficult to rate an autobiography - it's someone's life after all, so I'm going for 3 stars for this interesting delve into a celebrity's life and loves.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews