This book blew me away. I’ve been a fan of Davey’s music and writing for many years, but this was far more emotional and hard hitting than I expected. Told through a mixture of poetry, song lyrics and blog excerpts, this is the fascinating story of Davey’s life so far and his struggles with mental health, eating disorders and addiction. As beautiful as it is gut wrenching, it takes us on a journey from his early years in Dublin, through the rollercoaster years of being the frontman in the bands The Crocketts and The Crimea, and onto his career as a nurse. The descriptions of nursing in Africa are often heartbreaking and it’s clear this time had a profound impact on Davey. His account of returning to London and suffering a mental health crisis brought me to tears. Davey writes movingly about the love and support he’s received from his family, and how they’ve always been there for him through his darkest times. While its unflinching delivery may sometimes shock the reader, this is ultimately a story of hope, courage and the will to carry on. This is such a brave and confessional book. For me, a five star read and one to be treasured.

This book touches the most difficult subjects including mental health, self-destruction and self challenge. As someone who has also experienced these things it is extremely powerful and well written through descriptive writing, poetry and song lyrics. It manages to touch the heart in a way that no other book has touched me before. Davey’s talent and creativity in the way he understands the world and its darker side is inspiring and evidences his resilience and strength throughout, without him even knowing it! Much respect Mr Macmanus! Thank you

This book is something special. I read the whole thing all in one go, I've not done that with a book for a long time. I just couldn't tear my eyes away from it. As someone who suffers with mental health and an eating disorder, this book was a total emotional rollercoaster for me; I cried my way through it. The writing is perfect and beautifully interspersed with photos and poetry. I was drawn in right from the start and felt as though I was there with Davey throughout his vastly different experiences. As a huge Crimea fan, it was wonderful to read and understand the meaning behind the music as well as for the newer music. It feels like a massive privilege to have this unrivaled insight into Davey’s life experiences and it is a book that will stick with me for a long time. Davey McManus, you truly have the most beautiful soul ?