SHOULD'VE BEEN DEAD
Lessons From a Crack Addict Who Broke Free
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
"Profound reflections on resilience, self-discovery, and the power of human connection." - Readers' Favorite
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"This gripping memoir reveals the weight of grief, the toll of substance abuse, the slippery nature of recovery, and the ultimate serenity of taking back your power." - Self-Publishing Review
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"...a powerful reminder that change is possible no matter how deep one has fallen. This book will resonate with anyone seeking inspiration or understanding of the human capacity for redemption." - Literary Titan​
HEATHER WILLMAN,
Director of Academics (Secondary)
I found myself cheering for Rory as I learned to know and love him through his struggles and triumphs. There is an honesty and authenticity in his words and his journey that have stayed with me long after reading his story.
JAY WANGEN,
Bank Vice President
I could empathize with the broken, struggling human being and his feelings of failure. He fell short, faced overwhelming odds, and was exhausted from fighting uphill for so long. His pain was evident. I felt the pull of addiction. The hopelessness of escape. The danger of being drawn back in.
LEAH BAETHKE,
High School English Teacher
This story is real, raw, and painful, but throughout it all, his love of life and determination to leave a positive mark in the community persevered. Rory’s story is an example of how at any point, we each have the power to say, “This is not how the story ends.” Truly inspirational.
JULIE RUZEK,
Executive Director, Cradle2Career
It’s beautiful. It’s true. It’s honest. It’s brave… and not just Rory’s story, but Sweta’s too. A blossoming friendship. You’ve bared your hearts and souls and shown your love for the world, sharing it with whoever is open to hearing it. That is this book, one that I desperately needed. I am changed. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
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ALEXIS ZACCARIELLO,
High School Art Teacher
A real page-turner, I wanted to find out how Rory’s journey would unfold. But I also loved hearing how the author applied Rory’s lessons in her personal and teaching life. I applaud Sweta for not only trusting her instinct in writing the book, but also her perseverance and discipline in making it happen. I can’t wait for the next one!
INGA,
Mentor to those in recovery
I finished this book in one day. It’s written from the heart, as real as can be. I saw myself in Rory’s story and had to know how things ended. There’s hope for all of us.