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Face Value: From Working the Pole to Baring My Soul
Face Value: From Working the Pole to Baring My Soul is Less Than Zero meets Miami Vice but with more make-up and hairspray. It is the story of a beautiful, free-spirited, wide-eyed little girl from the island of O`ahu who has no childhood memories before the age of nine. What trauma could have erased her early life; she may never know.
What she does know, is that for as far back as she can remember these events influenced her unusual life. Christine tells her story with raw, honest, relatable, and no holds barred writing, taking us through the pain of her adolescence compounded by a rare skin disease that left her face permanently disfigured. Her darkest moments include drug addiction and dancing nude on stages in Waikiki.
In Christine's personal story we experience life behind the typical island backdrop of coconuts and palm trees, falling headlong into the underground world of adult entertainment where Christine spent nearly a decade trying to find her self-worth.
What she does know, is that for as far back as she can remember these events influenced her unusual life. Christine tells her story with raw, honest, relatable, and no holds barred writing, taking us through the pain of her adolescence compounded by a rare skin disease that left her face permanently disfigured. Her darkest moments include drug addiction and dancing nude on stages in Waikiki.
In Christine's personal story we experience life behind the typical island backdrop of coconuts and palm trees, falling headlong into the underground world of adult entertainment where Christine spent nearly a decade trying to find her self-worth.
336 pages, Paperback
Published March 8, 2023
5 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
Christine Macdonald
3 books8 followersMacdonald is a Los Angeles-based author who grew up on the Hawaiian Island of O`ahu. At 13, she was diagnosed with Acne Conglobata, a rare and severe skin disease that left over 80 percent of her face scarred. Adding to her trauma of an emotionally and psychologically neglected childhood, it led her to Hawaii’s underworld as an exotic dancer in Waikiki. For the first time, she felt beautiful and partially fulfilled her dream of becoming a Fosse dancer.
Through her writing, Macdonald uses her voice, a unique blend of cutting-edge truth, and self-deprecating humor to inspire others to release their shame and tell their story. She is public about her struggles with addiction and mental illness—and her road to recovery.
It is her passion to speak to people with self-esteem issues and, rather than judge them for their choices, help them find value in embracing what they consider to be their flaws.
Through her writing, Macdonald uses her voice, a unique blend of cutting-edge truth, and self-deprecating humor to inspire others to release their shame and tell their story. She is public about her struggles with addiction and mental illness—and her road to recovery.
It is her passion to speak to people with self-esteem issues and, rather than judge them for their choices, help them find value in embracing what they consider to be their flaws.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
April 24, 2023
Everyone loves a good success story, and Face Value by Christine Macdonald doesn't disappoint. Another reviewer used the word "raw" to describe this story, and I can't think of a better word.
Face Value is the true story of a woman who overcame many struggles in life. As a child, Christine was diagnosed with a rare skin disease that left most of her face severely scarred. Living through the moments of bullying by classmates, mental illness, and eventually becoming addicted to drugs, Christine turned to the life of a nude dancer in order to survive.
At times, Christine's story was hard to read because it made me sad. She truly doesn't hold back, but I also loved that about her book. Other times, she made me laugh out loud. I had never read a true story about nude dancers, and I found their world fascinating. She shares her ups, but mostly downs, with her addiction to drugs and what she went through on her road to recovery.
I enjoyed how Christine introduced all of the characters that became a part of her life. She made the reader feel like they were right there with her. At times, I was cheering on the other people, and other times, I wanted to yell to Christine to get away fast!
I admire Christine for writing and sharing her story. I'm sure it was extremely difficult for her to relive many of those moments. She showed us, however, that you can overcome the many struggles that life throws at you. She must be a very determined and courageous woman.
Face Value is the true story of a woman who overcame many struggles in life. As a child, Christine was diagnosed with a rare skin disease that left most of her face severely scarred. Living through the moments of bullying by classmates, mental illness, and eventually becoming addicted to drugs, Christine turned to the life of a nude dancer in order to survive.
At times, Christine's story was hard to read because it made me sad. She truly doesn't hold back, but I also loved that about her book. Other times, she made me laugh out loud. I had never read a true story about nude dancers, and I found their world fascinating. She shares her ups, but mostly downs, with her addiction to drugs and what she went through on her road to recovery.
I enjoyed how Christine introduced all of the characters that became a part of her life. She made the reader feel like they were right there with her. At times, I was cheering on the other people, and other times, I wanted to yell to Christine to get away fast!
I admire Christine for writing and sharing her story. I'm sure it was extremely difficult for her to relive many of those moments. She showed us, however, that you can overcome the many struggles that life throws at you. She must be a very determined and courageous woman.
April 23, 2023
interesting!
This was a look into an interesting life very different from my own and I really enjoyed the honesty in the book and the insights shared.
This was a look into an interesting life very different from my own and I really enjoyed the honesty in the book and the insights shared.
October 30, 2023
Face Value: From Working the Pole to Baring My Soul” is a riveting and very emotional memoir by Christine Macdonald that should, in my humble opinion, be read by everyone. My heart literally broke for the young girl even as it filled with respect for the grown woman that she became. I was beyond impressed with the honesty, the forgiveness, and the strength that this lady shows as she writes about her life.
In “Face Value” we meet an amazing woman who suffered beyond description as a child in Hawaii; one who has no real memories of her life before the age of nine. Unfortunately, the memories after that age are no better as she grew up suffering through a childhood full of neglect and horrible physical and verbal abuse from those she grew up with.
The book is told in a straightforward and very honest manner, which makes it that much more powerful. From her abuse to the rare skin disease she suffered from, Christine takes us on a journey that describes her pain and confusion during her adolescence to many even darker moments as she got older, including drug addiction and dancing naked on stages to make money. This story takes the reader into a part of Hawaii that has nothing to do with beaches and sunsets and into a horrible world of harsh reality that no one should have to suffer in.
“Face Value” is a story that will touch the heart of anyone. It is filled with horrors that most of us can never even imagine but it is also filled with excitement, fun, and a lot of laughs and tears. In my opinion, this is a very brave and strong woman who lays down her life on these pages for the reader to delve into and understand. It is a life that shows all of us that no matter what one must live through, giving up is not an option.
Reaching inside of oneself and grabbing hold of the power that you may not even know is there is the only way to change things and to rise back to the top, regardless of how far towards the bottom you are. It can be done with sheer determination and willpower. For anyone out there who thinks that things are just so bad that they cannot be overcome, this is the book for you. It is truly empowering and not to be missed.
The writing in “Face Value” was extremely honest and direct, and I was completely captivated. I laughed and cried right along with Ms. Macdonald as she put herself and her quest to find her pride on the pages. I cannot explain how much of an effect this story had on me and I highly recommend the book and commend the author for telling her tale. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. 5 Stars!!
Share this:
ClickFace Value: From Working the Pole to Baring My Soul” is a riveting and very emotional memoir by Christine Macdonald that should, in my humble opinion, be read by everyone. My heart literally broke for the young girl even as it filled with respect for the grown woman that she became. I was beyond impressed with the honesty, the forgiveness, and the strength that this lady shows as she writes about her life.
In “Face Value” we meet an amazing woman who suffered beyond description as a child in Hawaii; one who has no real memories of her life before the age of nine. Unfortunately, the memories after that age are no better as she grew up suffering through a childhood full of neglect and horrible physical and verbal abuse from those she grew up with.
The book is told in a straightforward and very honest manner, which makes it that much more powerful. From her abuse to the rare skin disease she suffered from, Christine takes us on a journey that describes her pain and confusion during her adolescence to many even darker moments as she got older, including drug addiction and dancing naked on stages to make money. This story takes the reader into a part of Hawaii that has nothing to do with beaches and sunsets and into a horrible world of harsh reality that no one should have to suffer in.
“Face Value” is a story that will touch the heart of anyone. It is filled with horrors that most of us can never even imagine but it is also filled with excitement, fun, and a lot of laughs and tears. In my opinion, this is a very brave and strong woman who lays down her life on these pages for the reader to delve into and understand. It is a life that shows all of us that no matter what one must live through, giving up is not an option.
Reaching inside of oneself and grabbing hold of the power that you may not even know is there is the only way to change things and to rise back to the top, regardless of how far towards the bottom you are. It can be done with sheer determination and willpower. For anyone out there who thinks that things are just so bad that they cannot be overcome, this is the book for you. It is truly empowering and not to be missed.
The writing in “Face Value” was extremely honest and direct, and I was completely captivated. I laughed and cried right along with Ms. Macdonald as she put herself and her quest to find her pride on the pages. I cannot explain how much of an effect this story had on me and I highly recommend the book and commend the author for telling her tale. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. 5 Stars!!
In “Face Value” we meet an amazing woman who suffered beyond description as a child in Hawaii; one who has no real memories of her life before the age of nine. Unfortunately, the memories after that age are no better as she grew up suffering through a childhood full of neglect and horrible physical and verbal abuse from those she grew up with.
The book is told in a straightforward and very honest manner, which makes it that much more powerful. From her abuse to the rare skin disease she suffered from, Christine takes us on a journey that describes her pain and confusion during her adolescence to many even darker moments as she got older, including drug addiction and dancing naked on stages to make money. This story takes the reader into a part of Hawaii that has nothing to do with beaches and sunsets and into a horrible world of harsh reality that no one should have to suffer in.
“Face Value” is a story that will touch the heart of anyone. It is filled with horrors that most of us can never even imagine but it is also filled with excitement, fun, and a lot of laughs and tears. In my opinion, this is a very brave and strong woman who lays down her life on these pages for the reader to delve into and understand. It is a life that shows all of us that no matter what one must live through, giving up is not an option.
Reaching inside of oneself and grabbing hold of the power that you may not even know is there is the only way to change things and to rise back to the top, regardless of how far towards the bottom you are. It can be done with sheer determination and willpower. For anyone out there who thinks that things are just so bad that they cannot be overcome, this is the book for you. It is truly empowering and not to be missed.
The writing in “Face Value” was extremely honest and direct, and I was completely captivated. I laughed and cried right along with Ms. Macdonald as she put herself and her quest to find her pride on the pages. I cannot explain how much of an effect this story had on me and I highly recommend the book and commend the author for telling her tale. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. 5 Stars!!
Share this:
ClickFace Value: From Working the Pole to Baring My Soul” is a riveting and very emotional memoir by Christine Macdonald that should, in my humble opinion, be read by everyone. My heart literally broke for the young girl even as it filled with respect for the grown woman that she became. I was beyond impressed with the honesty, the forgiveness, and the strength that this lady shows as she writes about her life.
In “Face Value” we meet an amazing woman who suffered beyond description as a child in Hawaii; one who has no real memories of her life before the age of nine. Unfortunately, the memories after that age are no better as she grew up suffering through a childhood full of neglect and horrible physical and verbal abuse from those she grew up with.
The book is told in a straightforward and very honest manner, which makes it that much more powerful. From her abuse to the rare skin disease she suffered from, Christine takes us on a journey that describes her pain and confusion during her adolescence to many even darker moments as she got older, including drug addiction and dancing naked on stages to make money. This story takes the reader into a part of Hawaii that has nothing to do with beaches and sunsets and into a horrible world of harsh reality that no one should have to suffer in.
“Face Value” is a story that will touch the heart of anyone. It is filled with horrors that most of us can never even imagine but it is also filled with excitement, fun, and a lot of laughs and tears. In my opinion, this is a very brave and strong woman who lays down her life on these pages for the reader to delve into and understand. It is a life that shows all of us that no matter what one must live through, giving up is not an option.
Reaching inside of oneself and grabbing hold of the power that you may not even know is there is the only way to change things and to rise back to the top, regardless of how far towards the bottom you are. It can be done with sheer determination and willpower. For anyone out there who thinks that things are just so bad that they cannot be overcome, this is the book for you. It is truly empowering and not to be missed.
The writing in “Face Value” was extremely honest and direct, and I was completely captivated. I laughed and cried right along with Ms. Macdonald as she put herself and her quest to find her pride on the pages. I cannot explain how much of an effect this story had on me and I highly recommend the book and commend the author for telling her tale. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. 5 Stars!!
October 5, 2023
Author Christine Macdonald presents a lively memoir of life experienced at its fullest, with reflections and heart-felt suggestions on how to change, grow and make the best of what has gone before in her memoir, Face Value: From Working the Pole to Baring My Soul.
Macdonald had a childhood in Hawaii, with scenes from some of her earliest years suppressed even as she has tried to recoup them. When her parents split up, she observed her mother’s struggles, and frequent failures, to manage what was happening. There was a stepfather, Dick, a dominating US military veteran probably tormented by PTSD, driving Macdonald’s mother to seek solace in booze and repression. Dick inveigled the family to live in Waikiki.It should have been paradise, but the author’s earliest memory is of being arrested as a third grader for shoplifting and having no idea at the time why she had done it. Worse would come when at age 13, she developed a rare skin disease that covered her face in ugly bruises, resulting in cruel mockery from her classmates and extensive treatments including surgeries that continued even as she was seduced and raped by a fellow highschooler. She began using booze and drugs, some of them prescribed but most snorted or smoked, and wound up as a stripper, calling herself Stephanie and table dancing for tips. For some years she relinquished all connection to the mainstream ambitions, rather proud of her talents “on the pole.” Her love life included serial partners both male and female, with few lasting attachments. The journey from that lifestyle required therapies, mentoring, and respectable office work, all part of a hard-won renunciation of her long walk on the very wild side.
Macdonald composed her vividly depicted recollections over a period of years, as her true grit gradually took hold and she was able to move away from her checkered history. However, she has skills as a wordsmith, indicating a high intelligence and an unusually advanced ability to organize the materials she shares here. Her vibrant chronology offers horror, hilarity, and a high-minded view that one would not have thought possible in one so steeped for so long in the madness of alcohol, cocaine, depression, physical illness, and sex. She has included photographs of herself at various stages of this mad trek, showing an adorable child grown to a beautiful young woman literally plagued with nasty facial abrasions, scars, and endowed with enviable shape and a lovely, if practiced, smile during her “pole” years. As she appears now, relaxed and inwardly redeemed, she says, “I’m such a work-in-progress.” That statement well characterizes the inner resolve and helpful hopeful attitude that she generously shares with her readers.
Quill says: Macdonald’s highly diverse personal recollections offer sage advice from one who has “been there” and come back triumphant and will doubtless inspire others to follow her example.
Macdonald had a childhood in Hawaii, with scenes from some of her earliest years suppressed even as she has tried to recoup them. When her parents split up, she observed her mother’s struggles, and frequent failures, to manage what was happening. There was a stepfather, Dick, a dominating US military veteran probably tormented by PTSD, driving Macdonald’s mother to seek solace in booze and repression. Dick inveigled the family to live in Waikiki.It should have been paradise, but the author’s earliest memory is of being arrested as a third grader for shoplifting and having no idea at the time why she had done it. Worse would come when at age 13, she developed a rare skin disease that covered her face in ugly bruises, resulting in cruel mockery from her classmates and extensive treatments including surgeries that continued even as she was seduced and raped by a fellow highschooler. She began using booze and drugs, some of them prescribed but most snorted or smoked, and wound up as a stripper, calling herself Stephanie and table dancing for tips. For some years she relinquished all connection to the mainstream ambitions, rather proud of her talents “on the pole.” Her love life included serial partners both male and female, with few lasting attachments. The journey from that lifestyle required therapies, mentoring, and respectable office work, all part of a hard-won renunciation of her long walk on the very wild side.
Macdonald composed her vividly depicted recollections over a period of years, as her true grit gradually took hold and she was able to move away from her checkered history. However, she has skills as a wordsmith, indicating a high intelligence and an unusually advanced ability to organize the materials she shares here. Her vibrant chronology offers horror, hilarity, and a high-minded view that one would not have thought possible in one so steeped for so long in the madness of alcohol, cocaine, depression, physical illness, and sex. She has included photographs of herself at various stages of this mad trek, showing an adorable child grown to a beautiful young woman literally plagued with nasty facial abrasions, scars, and endowed with enviable shape and a lovely, if practiced, smile during her “pole” years. As she appears now, relaxed and inwardly redeemed, she says, “I’m such a work-in-progress.” That statement well characterizes the inner resolve and helpful hopeful attitude that she generously shares with her readers.
Quill says: Macdonald’s highly diverse personal recollections offer sage advice from one who has “been there” and come back triumphant and will doubtless inspire others to follow her example.
September 22, 2023
I’ve followed Christine MacDonald for over a decade now, watching her writing progress and wondering if and when her book would come out. And now that it has, I am so happy for her. Congratulations!
Apart from similar age, at face value Christine and I have nothing in common, and yet our stories, as diverse from each other as can be, do have parallels that I relate to.
Her story evolves in Hawaii. One day, she’s relatively normal, the next she has this horrible, disfiguring acne. Not just a few zits but an actual moon cratering type that leaves her pillow bloody each morning and those around her keeping their distance while taunting her mercilessly. But children need belonging, a sense of self-worth, and Christine finds the only way to attain these is with her body. But she eventually turns the table, from being used and powerless to being in command. Stripping gives her freedom and worth and community she’d not had before. But at a cost.
Face Value takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery and healing without resorting to cheap porn. It never gets bogged down in self-pity or stoop to the woe is me mantra of so many addiction dysfunctional life stories. And the writing is excellent which made it an easy and enjoyable read despite the subject matter.
Well done!
Apart from similar age, at face value Christine and I have nothing in common, and yet our stories, as diverse from each other as can be, do have parallels that I relate to.
Her story evolves in Hawaii. One day, she’s relatively normal, the next she has this horrible, disfiguring acne. Not just a few zits but an actual moon cratering type that leaves her pillow bloody each morning and those around her keeping their distance while taunting her mercilessly. But children need belonging, a sense of self-worth, and Christine finds the only way to attain these is with her body. But she eventually turns the table, from being used and powerless to being in command. Stripping gives her freedom and worth and community she’d not had before. But at a cost.
Face Value takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery and healing without resorting to cheap porn. It never gets bogged down in self-pity or stoop to the woe is me mantra of so many addiction dysfunctional life stories. And the writing is excellent which made it an easy and enjoyable read despite the subject matter.
Well done!
December 31, 2023
A Must Read Memoir
Christine Macdonald’s memoir Face Value: From Working the Pole to Baring My Soul tells the compelling story of how childhood trauma from a rare skin disease as well as abusive family dynamics led her to depend on vices to survive. Told with raw emotion, she provides ample introspection of the consequences of her life choices. Her self-deprecating humor carries you along for the wild journey of her life involving drug abuse, debauchery, and stripping.
Clearly, she is comfortable telling the uncomfortable truth. She flavors her story by offering a glimpse into the lives of so many others she encountered during her days partying, dating, and dancing. While reconciliation with everyone isn’t always possible, Christine Macdonald shows what happens when we decide to change the way our story turns out. She is a survivor whose bravery and perseverance shine through. Anyone who has overcome addiction or experienced trauma or dealt with loss can gain perspective through her book. And even if you’ve been fortunate enough to not have gone through any of that, the book offers a glimpse through the window of someone who has. Reading her memoir reminds me how lucky I truly am to be where I am today.
Christine Macdonald’s memoir Face Value: From Working the Pole to Baring My Soul tells the compelling story of how childhood trauma from a rare skin disease as well as abusive family dynamics led her to depend on vices to survive. Told with raw emotion, she provides ample introspection of the consequences of her life choices. Her self-deprecating humor carries you along for the wild journey of her life involving drug abuse, debauchery, and stripping.
Clearly, she is comfortable telling the uncomfortable truth. She flavors her story by offering a glimpse into the lives of so many others she encountered during her days partying, dating, and dancing. While reconciliation with everyone isn’t always possible, Christine Macdonald shows what happens when we decide to change the way our story turns out. She is a survivor whose bravery and perseverance shine through. Anyone who has overcome addiction or experienced trauma or dealt with loss can gain perspective through her book. And even if you’ve been fortunate enough to not have gone through any of that, the book offers a glimpse through the window of someone who has. Reading her memoir reminds me how lucky I truly am to be where I am today.
July 27, 2023
23, 2023
Wow, where do I begin? The anticipation of this book's release held me captive for months and months and months. I finally received my copy in the middle of March, 2023 and I couldn't wait to dive right in.
Dive in I did.
Christine tells the story of her life growing up on the island of Oahu. This isn't a happy childhood story, as her childhood was not what anyone would call average.
Within a handful of years, Christine he faced numerous blows to her self esteem, which led her to make choices that were again, not average.
Eventually, a young Christine ends up in 4" heels dancing naked for tips for close to a decade. Her story continues on from there to what most couldn't even imagine.
This book is a chronicle of one heartbreaking story after another, laced with a killer soundtrack and stand-up comedian's voice, she reveals what it's like to live from one dollar bill to the next!
Throughout her story, Christine uses self-deprecation and humor to make light of her personal demons and describes, in hilarity, the many astounding events she lived through, and how she finally overcame her demons. It is truly an empowering story!
My take-away from her story is simple: no matter what we've lived through, the power to overcome is within our grasp. Christine uses her inspiring examples of grasping her power throughout the book, and she bares everything to us lucky readers while doing so.
Wow, where do I begin? The anticipation of this book's release held me captive for months and months and months. I finally received my copy in the middle of March, 2023 and I couldn't wait to dive right in.
Dive in I did.
Christine tells the story of her life growing up on the island of Oahu. This isn't a happy childhood story, as her childhood was not what anyone would call average.
Within a handful of years, Christine he faced numerous blows to her self esteem, which led her to make choices that were again, not average.
Eventually, a young Christine ends up in 4" heels dancing naked for tips for close to a decade. Her story continues on from there to what most couldn't even imagine.
This book is a chronicle of one heartbreaking story after another, laced with a killer soundtrack and stand-up comedian's voice, she reveals what it's like to live from one dollar bill to the next!
Throughout her story, Christine uses self-deprecation and humor to make light of her personal demons and describes, in hilarity, the many astounding events she lived through, and how she finally overcame her demons. It is truly an empowering story!
My take-away from her story is simple: no matter what we've lived through, the power to overcome is within our grasp. Christine uses her inspiring examples of grasping her power throughout the book, and she bares everything to us lucky readers while doing so.
August 12, 2023
I read this book a few weeks ago - binged on it over a weekend - but I'm moved to write this review the day after Sinead O'Connor's passing. I wanted to give the author a thoughtful, heartfelt review because this book exemplifies thoughtful, heartfelt writing. Anyone who has felt that their gifts have been buried under superficial opinions and useless, destructive societal "norms" need a trigger warning for this book. The amount of bravery it must have taken this author to put aside all vanities and lay bare (pun intended) her journey is astounding. It really challenges our notions of beauty, self-image and gives a space to a non-traditional view of female power dynamics, for better or worse. Circling back to Sinead, the vulnerability this author displays is deeply touching - through dark emotional turmoil and through bright lights. I highly recommend this book to those who can hear traces their underlying brilliance, but have not yet found the amplifier. And for those who are looking for a voice that harmonizes with their favorite song that is sad and joyous at the same time. Well done, Christine Macdonald.
September 2, 2023
My Heart breaks for young Christine. The neglect, verbal abuse by the horrible children/teens she grew up with, and the physical abuse. It's a harsh reminder, "innocent" children were often more horrid than the adults. And the Adults acted like the innocent children. Not.
It is a brave memoir, to share these deep wounds with us. And it opens the conversation for all of us. Christine's capacity for forgiveness, her bravery, her sheer determination, is profound. Inspiring. She is a warrior among women. All that she went through and the choices she made, have led her to this moment where she can now be the teacher, the holder, the messenger... Do not forget who you are. You are more, much more than the presentation of the self.
This book touched me in many ways. I personally related to this story as someone who also fought for validation as a young girl. Maybe in a different way, but in a way that we can all feel connected. Not only does Christine share her vulnerability, but she shares her story in a way that her humor shines through so bright, it softens the edges of the harsh reality.
I can't wait to see this on T.V.!!
It is a brave memoir, to share these deep wounds with us. And it opens the conversation for all of us. Christine's capacity for forgiveness, her bravery, her sheer determination, is profound. Inspiring. She is a warrior among women. All that she went through and the choices she made, have led her to this moment where she can now be the teacher, the holder, the messenger... Do not forget who you are. You are more, much more than the presentation of the self.
This book touched me in many ways. I personally related to this story as someone who also fought for validation as a young girl. Maybe in a different way, but in a way that we can all feel connected. Not only does Christine share her vulnerability, but she shares her story in a way that her humor shines through so bright, it softens the edges of the harsh reality.
I can't wait to see this on T.V.!!
March 14, 2023
I couldn’t put it down
This book is as raw and real as it gets. I literally couldn’t put it down and finished it within 48 hours. As a recovering addict, I’ve rarely seen the highs and lows of addiction described so precisely. Her account of that world was so brutally honest that it even triggered my first using dream in a long time. While that might sound bad, it was quite the opposite. I woke up with more gratitude for my life without drugs than I’ve had in a long time.
As much as this book takes you down deep into the depths of addiction, it also takes you up into that rarified air of recovery, healing, and self acceptance with just as much honestly and insight. What I was left feeling in the end was Christine’s acceptance ,redemption, and most importantly, self love and that’s what I’m taking away with me. I could see this being a banger of 2-3 part docuseries on Netflix or Hulu. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
This book is as raw and real as it gets. I literally couldn’t put it down and finished it within 48 hours. As a recovering addict, I’ve rarely seen the highs and lows of addiction described so precisely. Her account of that world was so brutally honest that it even triggered my first using dream in a long time. While that might sound bad, it was quite the opposite. I woke up with more gratitude for my life without drugs than I’ve had in a long time.
As much as this book takes you down deep into the depths of addiction, it also takes you up into that rarified air of recovery, healing, and self acceptance with just as much honestly and insight. What I was left feeling in the end was Christine’s acceptance ,redemption, and most importantly, self love and that’s what I’m taking away with me. I could see this being a banger of 2-3 part docuseries on Netflix or Hulu. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
March 21, 2023
I had no idea what to think when I picked this book up at the urging of a friend. Boy, am I happy I did! I could not put this book down and finished it in three days! Christine writes her story with fierce truth and doesn't hold back on taking us to the darker places of her story, and then suddenly, I found myself laughing as well as crying! I can see her book on the screen as a television series or movie. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Well done, Christine! This book will help people and inspire others to share their own stories of addiction, depression and strength in coming out the other side to redemption and healing.
April 15, 2023
A superb book with an urgent, important message about survival and self-acceptance.
Christine Macdonald has crafted a memoir that's moving, brave and brutally honest. The personal essay format she chose for it is powerfully conceived. I never thought a book with so much pain and growth behind it could also be so joyously self-deprecating and funny, but the author achieves this feat with seeming effortlessness. From the moment I cracked the book open, I couldn't put it down, and neither will you. Buy it. Read it. Treasure it. You'll be able to tell your friends, "I knew Christine before she was famous," because that's coming.
Christine Macdonald has crafted a memoir that's moving, brave and brutally honest. The personal essay format she chose for it is powerfully conceived. I never thought a book with so much pain and growth behind it could also be so joyously self-deprecating and funny, but the author achieves this feat with seeming effortlessness. From the moment I cracked the book open, I couldn't put it down, and neither will you. Buy it. Read it. Treasure it. You'll be able to tell your friends, "I knew Christine before she was famous," because that's coming.
August 28, 2023
I lived in Oahu in the earlier stages of Christine’s book. I knew a lot of the places she spent time at and the “scene”. This book is very entertaining but at the same time heart wrenching. Her background and the factors that shaped her personality and emotional state are a constant theme in her stories and relationships. While at times lurid, there is an underlying honesty that makes the wild life she lived more than just a tell all. It keeps you engaged and interested on a final good ending. She is a talented story teller.
March 17, 2023
Face Value
by up-and-coming author, Christine Macdonald is an absolute MUST-READ! I seriously could not put this book down. I was mesmerized by her personal story and found myself laughing, crying, and cheering her on with the turn of each page. I would love to be able to watch her story unfold on the big screen or perhaps even as a TV series. Her captivating account will shock and delight you with the hope that someone with a dark past can truly have a bright future. Well done!
March 20, 2023
Who knew that someone with such a dark past could make something of their life? I am so blown away by Christine's story and have a new respect for anyone who chooses a life of adult entertainment. It just proves that we all have a story. Not only is this book incredibly well written, but Christine's ability to make me laugh and cry at once is brilliant. I seriously could not put this book down! Bravo, Christine!
March 26, 2023
Wow! This book is amazing. I couldn't put it down. I want to hold that sweet little girl in my arms. And I'm so inspired by the woman she has become. Christine, you are a gift to humanity. We ALL can relate to your feelings of self-doubt. Thank you for being so brave to say it out loud. Keep writing! We want more! Your humor, sarcasm, raw honesty, and unbelievable storytelling leave me wanting more. Thank you for baring your soul!
April 15, 2023
What a beautiful book! It tells an emotional story of a young girl growing up with visible and invisible scars and how she navigates life and learns to understand her own worth. The author tells her story with honesty, grace and humor - it’s a story of living in the fringes but she makes it so relatable you can’t help but cheer for her! And her descriptions of Waikiki in the 80s & 90s are wonderful and bring me back to those days.
Well done!
Well done!
June 7, 2023
This bold tale is a must read for anyone who's struggled with self esteem. Christine writes with heartwarming humor about some very real, raw, and at times painful moments in a way that makes you feel like part of her inner circle. Her insightful retrospective on self worth and addiction, is really about a journey towards self love. I literally laughed out loud several times while getting a behind the scenes peak behind pole. Highly recommend this read!
November 9, 2023
The author has quite a fascinating journey and so different from any other one. Christine has a great talent in drawing a picture of her beginnings and how she struggled yet now is a new woman and advocates for ones that had similar hardships. What a beautiful message that she portrays as beauty is from within. I really enjoyed it.
December 18, 2023
Christine Macdonald’s memoir is a jaw-dropping peek into the life of a young girl doing her best to navigate troubled teen relationships and heartbreaking family dynamics, all while dealing with drug addiction and mental illness. You will laugh and cry reading her story, and cheer as she comes out on the other side. A definite must read!!
July 18, 2023
Hope and Healing
She is a warrior. Living through an adolescent
Hell of Horrible neglect, verbal abuse, physical abuse and DNA malignancy. She is the light we all need to see and recognize as a part of ourselves that is truly worth listening to, acknowledging, and saving.
She is a warrior. Living through an adolescent
Hell of Horrible neglect, verbal abuse, physical abuse and DNA malignancy. She is the light we all need to see and recognize as a part of ourselves that is truly worth listening to, acknowledging, and saving.
September 16, 2023
I first saw Christine on social media, and was intrigued by her story. This is a wonderful book, and she is a such a great storyteller. Her life was not easy, and at times heartbreaking, but also inspiring and brave. Thank you Christine for sharing your amazing story.
June 7, 2023
I could not put this book down! Christine is an excellent writer. What a life she had at such a young age. I just want to give her a HUGE hug!
January 19, 2024
I highly recommend this book! The story is raw, beautiful and a true picture of that special moment in time during the late 80's - 90's Waikiki that some of us were lucky enough to live. Christine is brutally honest with her own addictions and experiences. She'll make you laugh, cry and wish she was your new best friend.
June 13, 2023
It's not everyday a debut author garners the attention from NYT Bestsellling authors like Piper Kerman (Orange is the New Black) and Joyce Maynard (At Home in the World).
Eager to read Christine Macdonald's memoir, not only from the rave reviews but having been a stripper myself, I was all the more curious. I was not disappointed. Christine's writing took me in before even reading the first page. With 43 enticing chapter titles like 'The Other Woman', 'Breast Intentions' and 'Living with Depression' I was sold.
There's so much to say about this book. But, what stood out most was how loveable, relatable, humorous, vulnerable and, taking from Piper Kerman's blurb, how 'clear-eyed' Christine's writing is.
Oh and not to give anything away, but I loved the bonus at the end. 'Your Top 5 Stripper Questions, Answered':)))
Eager to read Christine Macdonald's memoir, not only from the rave reviews but having been a stripper myself, I was all the more curious. I was not disappointed. Christine's writing took me in before even reading the first page. With 43 enticing chapter titles like 'The Other Woman', 'Breast Intentions' and 'Living with Depression' I was sold.
There's so much to say about this book. But, what stood out most was how loveable, relatable, humorous, vulnerable and, taking from Piper Kerman's blurb, how 'clear-eyed' Christine's writing is.
Oh and not to give anything away, but I loved the bonus at the end. 'Your Top 5 Stripper Questions, Answered':)))
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