It is shocking to read about what forensic psychologists sometimes face in their work. This book makes one realize that forensic psychology must be one of the most taxing and shattering jobs in our society and that we need more of these quiet heroes. The author discusses some of her patients, their past traumas, and their current demons. She shares stories of the criminally insane and points out that psychiatry has little to offer the mentally ill sometimes. "He had repeatedly been hospitalized at the forensic unit… it was a revolving door for him...," explains the author. But she also recalls successes, "I froze somewhere between concern for my patient and glee at the success of the group's game plan." Lewis also recounts the danger she faced while treating criminal patients. It is simply hair-raising, the level of bravery the job requires.

Like watching a television court scene where expert witnesses testify, readers will be spellbound reading about Lewis's feelings and experiences in court. Lewis tells of being an expert witness. She describes the professional dilemmas she faced, and they were sometimes gut-wrenching. Ultimately, she writes, "I sobbed. I hated Jay, his lawyer, the legal system, and the hospital... I hated, hated, and hated my work." The writing is poignant, stark, and touching. The best example is when Lewis writes about attending the funeral of a beloved patient she's known for decades. Readers should be warned that tissues are needed in this section. Though this book is a memoir mainly about the therapists and not so much about the patients, it is nonetheless eye-opening about both.

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