Title: A Second Act in Life

Author: Nicholas deSpoeberch

Genres: Self-Help / Psychology / Psychopathology

 

A Second Act in Life by Nicholas deSpoeberch is a memoir / self-help book where the author, through sharing his own story of overcoming addiction, offers advice and encouragement for others. DeSpoeberch goes into detail in the first part to explain how his addiction to prescription drugs ultimately led to his downward spiral of turning to alcohol and illegal drugs to numb his pain. In the rest of the book, the author speaks to his long journey of recovery and the aftermath, then follows with practical tips and words of affirmation for the reader.

It is true that everyone has struggles in life. Although we all experience life differently and some may not battle an addiction to alcohol or drugs, many of us still fight our own battles and addictions. Because of this, deSpoeberch’s book is applicable to a wide audience. In a world where the internet has enabled more and more voices screaming, demanding to be heard, we are overloaded. Life has become complicated for many, and depression rates are higher than ever, despite the general American citizen being well off as far as basic needs go compared to many parts of the world. In our search for meaning, purpose, and happiness, we sometimes turn to addictions to either numb the pain that life inevitably throws our way, or we are looking to fill a void. Thus, our existence becomes an existential crisis, and the question becomes: do we choose to rise above or allow our addictions to define us?

DeSpoeberch’s authenticity is admirable. He isn’t afraid to make himself vulnerable and speak to what his life had become when his additions overtook him. Despite a lovely family and a good, solid career, on the inside, he was empty. This makes us wonder how many people are walking around with smiles on their faces on the outside, yet they could be miserable on the inside. Speaking to the root cause of the problem is the starting point that the author digs down deep to, and because he found hope and chose better, this gives others hope. This book is very relevant these days.

He encourages us to seek meaning and purpose in something greater than ourselves. The easy road to choose is to remain unchanging, but the better road leads to recovery and ultimately inner joy. The temptation is always with a person to give in to whatever addiction they struggle with, but we are not defined by our addictions. We are more than our problems, and when we have the support of family, friends, and faith, we can abide in those things.

Some of the subject matter may be triggering for people in the midst of struggling with serious alcohol or drug use, so caution, in such a case, should be taken when reading this book.

A Second Act in Life tells a relatable, relevant true story of how after the first act of addiction is over, the second act can be a springboard for renewal and hope. Nicholas deSpoeberch offers timely advice and words of encouragement that come from a place of authenticity and experience. This self-help book stands out among its genre because the author uses personal stories to connect with the reader, then goes further by emboldening and empowering the reader to also be an overcomer.

 

 

This Editorial Review was written by the Book Review Directory staff. To receive a similarly honest, professional review for one of your own books, click here.