By Mae West.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content Warning: Murder, Rape, Sexual Abuse, Physical Abuse, Sex Work, Suicide
“I knew that for me that was not going to be possible because my mother was Rose West”.
‼️ What's it like growing up in 25 Cromwell Street, famously known as the House of Horrors?
‼️ How does having Fred and Rose West as your parents impact you as a person?
Surprisingly, the answer is that you can emerge as a compassionate and insightful individual. Reading this book, my impression is that Mae West has not only survived but transcended a profoundly abusive childhood, characterised by physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
However, it's also undeniably sad in some respects. Mae's connection to her mother endures even when she's in prison. She maintains contact and sends her money, which might seem incomprehensible. One might wonder why anyone would want to believe their parent was incapable of such evil, especially when they deny any involvement. Over time, Mae gradually severs this bond as she realises the relationship is toxic.
This was the most challenging aspect of the book for me – understanding why someone would maintain communication with someone accused of such heinous acts.
If you're a true crime enthusiast who values an emphasis on the victims, this book is a must-read. Although we do learn more about her parents, the primary focus here is on Mae and her unfortunate sister, Heather.
Mae's strength shines through in her ability to not only write this book but also face the world for something her parents did. I hope that the writing process helped Mae recognise that her parents' actions had nothing to do with her – she was a victim.
She need not hide and can stand tall.
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