Wow! What a profoundly compelling and tragic memoir. There are points throughout that I found myself almost uncomfortable sitting in Natasha Trethewey’s grief, as it feels as though she is simultaneously writing and processing her own grief. As a survivor of domestic violence, this was such a powerful and impactful detailing of the power and control dynamics that exist in these types of situations and even though I knew exactly how this story would go, I couldn’t help myself in fighting against the reality, wanting to believe that Gwendolyn Grimmette could have been saved. This memoir was simply incredibly.

A very special thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers for sending me a copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.

I almost feel inappropriate describing this book as I will, but Memorial Drive is a beautifully haunting chronicle of a family living through abuse, which ultimately lead to murder. At the same time, it is also a terrifying picture of someone who is severely mentally ill, and not seeking or recieving proper medical care. It is lovely and heart-wrenching tribute to the author's mother, and I felt honored to be reading something that felt so strongly like part of the grief she still carries. I imagine this book will be triggering for some, but for others, like me, it makes me ask the question of how I can help - how can I change someone's life by simply asking, "Do you need help?"