Eighteen Seconds: A shocking and gripping memoir of horror, forgiveness and love

Louise Beech's memoir "Eighteen Seconds" explores the events leading up to her mother's suicide and the impact it had on her family. With a mix of dark humor and profound insight, Beech shares her difficult childhood and her love for her siblings. The book has received early praise for its authenticity, compassion, and bravery.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2023
Publisher: Ad Lib Publishers Ltd

My mother once expressed a profound wish to me, yearning for me to experience the depth of her emotions for just eighteen seconds. She conveyed the magnitude of her suffering, hoping that through this brief moment, I would gain a glimpse of the agony she endured. Reflecting on her words, I realized the immense value of empathy and understanding. We can all benefit from stepping into the shoes of others for a mere eighteen seconds. Imagine being inside Grandma Roberts's head as she sits alone with her evening cup of tea, surrounded by her granddaughters upstairs in bed. Or imagine being one-year-old Colin, waking up in a foster home, longing for his family. Or perhaps, envisioning the anticipation and anxiety of a girl waiting for her bedroom door to open.

Writer Louise Beech reflects on the events that led to her mother's tragic decision to write down her last words and then jump off the Humber Bridge. She narrowly missed witnessing the horror firsthand, but her words carry the weight of the experience. Through her memoir, Eighteen Seconds, Louise shares the pain and trauma of her childhood, intertwining it with her deep love for her siblings. With a delightful dark humor and a profound voice of hope, she paints a vivid portrait of her family's resilience and unwavering spirit.

Early praise for Eighteen Seconds has been pouring in. John Marrs describes it as "upsetting, uplifting, and inspiring." S. E. Lynes praises the book for its authenticity, unflinching honesty, and moving portrayal of a complicated childhood. Madeleine Black praises Louise's compassion and humanity, while Gill Paul applauds her courage in sharing such a personal story. Liz Nugent expresses her love for every word of this haunting memoir. Amanda Prowse praises Louise's writing, describing it as "haunting, brave, and brilliant."

Louise's memoir is a testament to the power of resilience and the ability to find meaning in the darkest of times. It reminds us of the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding, and encourages us to look beyond our own experiences and seek solace in the shared humanity of others. Eighteen Seconds is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, love and hope can triumph.

Weight: 252g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781837700202