Review of Relieved

[Praiyz Pearlumie Olushegun]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Relieved" by Cheryl Richardson.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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Relieved, a memoir by Cheryl Richardson, spans 345 pages, adorned with an enticing book cover and a title that radiates an unusual yet calming charm.

Cheryl's initial interaction with Debora arose from the necessity for help in organizing and unpacking boxes. However, as their collaboration progressed, Cheryl discerned Debora's perplexing personality traits, characterized by disrespectful actions like slamming doors after completing tasks. Over time, Cheryl's role shifted from organizing boxes to running errands, eventually morphing into her serving as Debora's personal assistant. This evolution exposed Cheryl to inconsiderate tasks, emotional manipulation, and perilous assignments, all under the pretext of assisting an oil heiress. The narrative unravels the arduous journey Cheryl navigated in liberating herself from this precarious situation, urging readers to delve into the intricacies of her escape.

From this book, I derived the lesson that summoning the courage to leave, even amid an uncertain future, is preferable to enduring pervasive abuse. The book's intricate descriptions of various locations and residences, accompanied by pictures, added a palpable layer to the true-life story, providing readers with a more immersive experience. It offers insights into the lives of the affluent while shedding light on the disconcerting existence of narcissistic, mean, and abusive individuals. The narrative also encourages reflection on the issue of women abusing women. The poignant connection the author shared with her cat was particularly touching.

Despite its merits, the book is not exempt from drawbacks. The inconsistency in chapter lengths disrupts the flow, and the absence of a table of contents, which typically offers a brief overview, diminishes the reading experience. Considering these aspects alongside my overall enjoyment of the book, I deducted a star, resulting in a four out of five stars rating.

I recommend Relieved to those navigating toxic environments or relationships, as well as individuals who have undergone similar toxic situations. The book provides valuable insights and support for those seeking liberation from such challenges. It is also recommended for mature readers and those who appreciate emotionally charged memoirs.

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Relieved
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