OnlineBookClub.org

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Against the Wind Based on a true story" by Joy Cee.]

"But in matters of the heart and life decisions, I will always keep my back Against the Wind."

Imagine being twenty years old and having to flee in the middle of the night to escape abuse and protect your baby. In Against the Wind: Based on a True Story, Joy Cee chronicles her story beginning in 2011, nearly forty years later and after her daughter is grown. She reflects on her past to a time in her life when she felt broken and destined to be alone. Set in 1972 in Venice Beach Florida, Cee recounts living in a small trailer with her mother and baby daughter, the never-ending nightmares of her ex-spouse choking her, her struggle as a young mother to fit in socially, and the relationship that healed her heart. Seeking solace at the beach, she encounters Shane, a polite stranger with a southern drawl. Despite his good looks and charm, Cee initially turns down his request for a date, but Shane is determined to break down the walls she has so carefully constructed to protect her heart.

The 203-page book is written in the first-person narrative. Cee establishes the backstory before she begins sharing from 1972 and then updates her current circumstances in the epilogue, providing a clear timeline throughout the book. Cee and I share something in common; I also had to flee with my children, from an abusive spouse in the middle of the night. I mention my experience because I can attest firsthand that Cee masterfully captures the range of emotions and self-preservation involved in recovering from an abusive relationship.

I particularly like the portions of the book when Cee tenderly refers to her daughter, Bean. Even as a twenty-year-old single parent, her devotion to her baby never seems to waver. Despite her strong love for Shane, Cee's actions convey that her commitment to her daughter comes first. I also enjoyed her picturesque descriptions of the beach and sailing.

While there isn't anything I dislike about the book, I do want to caution readers about the sensitive content. In addition to the domestic violence Cee experienced, she also shares memories of being sexually abused as a child. Although her descriptions aren't graphic in nature, they may be triggering for readers with similar experiences.

Sadly, the book needs a thorough round of editing; I noted 20 errors in the first 14 pages. Unfortunately, the errors persist, and the lack of editing gives the book an unprofessional appearance. Due to the number of errors, I rate the book 2 out of 4 stars. I hope the editing is addressed, so the book can be brought to its full potential. I recommend it to readers who enjoy romance and memoirs about overcoming adversity. However, please note the cautionary warning in the previous paragraph. The book may also appeal to those who like the beach, swimming, and sailing.

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Against the Wind Based on a true story
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Wow, sounds like such a powerful story. I can't imagine what bravery it must take to run away and start over. I'm sorry to hear about the editing. I agree it's frustrating and takes away from the book. Thank you for your review!

This sounds like an incredibly powerful story, and I so admire the author and yourself for sharing your experiences. It takes immense strength, so thank you. It is a shame about the editing, but I would still like to read this. Excellent review! I look forward to reading future ones:)

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Helene_2008 wrote: ↑18 Jun 2019, 19:52 Wow, sounds like such a powerful story. I can't imagine what bravery it must take to run away and start over. I'm sorry to hear about the editing. I agree it's frustrating and takes away from the book. Thank you for your review!

Thanks for your comment, Helene.

Meg98 wrote: ↑18 Jun 2019, 21:25 This sounds like an incredibly powerful story, and I so admire the author and yourself for sharing your experiences. It takes immense strength, so thank you. It is a shame about the editing, but I would still like to read this. Excellent review! I look forward to reading future ones:)

Thank you, Meg.

I admire the author's decision to remove herself and her daughter from this situation. She was wise to wait to publish her book until her daughter was grown. This is an excellent review. Thanks, Cecilia!

Thanks for the review! It is a touching story. I am not sure that I would read it just yet as it I am in an emotional space just now. Other wise it sounds worth reading!

kdstrack wrote: ↑19 Jun 2019, 16:12 I admire the author's decision to remove herself and her daughter from this situation. She was wise to wait to publish her book until her daughter was grown. This is an excellent review. Thanks, Cecilia!

You're welcome. I appreciate your comment.

Magnify3 wrote: ↑20 Jun 2019, 02:05 Thanks for the review! It is a touching story. I am not sure that I would read it just yet as it I am in an emotional space just now. Other wise it sounds worth reading!

I understand. Thanks for your comment.

Been there. Done that. I'd likely relate to the book and find it interesting.

I do wonder why all the memoirs about leaving abusive situations are resolved with "finding love?" Not all women escaping opt to partner up again. It's not a bad or wrong thing to do. It just seems like the alternative is underrepresented.

I enjoyed your review as always, and I'm sorry you are part of the "flee club." It makes us stronger I suppose.

All the best to you, Cyndi

CyndiA1 wrote: ↑20 Jun 2019, 12:45 Been there. Done that. I'd likely relate to the book and find it interesting.

I do wonder why all the memoirs about leaving abusive situations are resolved with "finding love?" Not all women escaping opt to partner up again. It's not a bad or wrong thing to do. It just seems like the alternative is underrepresented.

I enjoyed your review as always, and I'm sorry you are part of the "flee club." It makes us stronger I suppose.

All the best to you, Cyndi

Cyndi, I knew we were kindred spirits. Sorry to hear that you've also experienced this, but I agree; it does make us stronger. You voiced one of my frustrations--not every woman is looking for a relationship to "complete" her. I have been contentedly single since fleeing my abusive relationship. Thanks for sharing. I appreciate your comments.