Before I Disappear

by R.J. Duval

Faced with a terminal disease, Rachel questions whether her life is reality or merely an illusion. Can anything that dies be real?

The story begins in southern Arizona where the protagonist, Rachel, lives with her family in the middle of a barren desert, in an old army tent. It is a prison of poverty and miles of sand from which Rachel must escape. After finding the courage to walk along the two lane highway, through the middle of nowhere, she reaches the outside world - Phoenix. From homelessness to excessiveness, Rachel overcomes the odds to reach great heights of monetary success and community status. Although she builds the life of her dreams, everything she attains cannot save her.

The ancient conflict between the pursuit of worldly gratifications and the attainment of inner peace is the driving force of this novel. The enduring questions regarding the true nature and purpose of our existence are considered through the compelling life of a courageous, inspirational character.

Psychological thriller. Action and Adventure. Coming of Age. Adult Fiction. Crime Drama. Health and Healing. Biographical.

389 pages, Paperback

Published August 30, 2017

Reviews

[Queen Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it. It's an unprecedented portrait of a dysfunctional family by a gifted stylist. In some ways, it's hard to write a review because it's an unusual piece. What I can say is that it has excellent character development and it did its job because I couldn't put it down. I imagine that readers fall into two categories: those who love it, and those who hate it.

[Tosin Silverdam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic read... I enjoyed reading this story, It is a story of Rachel who comes from a poverty stricken family. Rachel lives with her family in an old army tent, she's a strong girl, she didn't give up. Rachel survived against all odds, she became successful, from grass to grace.

There is a lot to learn in this book, it is inspiring and educating. Rachel's story is an inspiration to everyone out there. Kudos to the writer!!!

[Njihia Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book was so moving I cannot deny my desire to re-read it. It however had some sections that were quite disturbing due to the violence in them. All the same, the book is an exact reflection of our lives, the situations, the issues and challenges we face.
Overall, the book I can only say was a perfect work by the author, and I must congratulate the author for this. It makes the reader have a better perception about life, and hence ready to better deal with it.
It is a must read for all of us.

[Mary Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zipped through this book pretty quickly : Before I Disappear - it's always a good sign when a books holds your attention so well that you don't want to put it down! Great character development. Highly recommend!