“Having both personal and professional experience with addiction, I found “Beyond Rock Bottom” to be powerfully written and invaluable in trying to understand the experience of addiction in families. There is a concern that some addicts might have difficulty reading about Grayson’s experiences of euphoria while he is high because it could trigger their own addiction. I don’t believe this will affect the majority of people in recovery though I would suggest alerting potential readers that the material could be a trigger. I have students who are in recovery who know they can’t become substance abuse counselors because they realize talking about drugs puts them at risk of relapse.

“Beyond Rock Bottom” will give hope to addicts and their families. Grayson’s addiction ran very deep and it is amazing that he was able to survive the amount of substances he was putting into his body. Amazing and fortunate, because by being able to share his story, others will be inspired to heal. As well, Patty’s words will help parents realize that they are not alone in their experience or suffering. Both Grayson and Patty show that recovery can happen, and with proper interventions, a family can become whole.

“Beyond Rock Bottom” by Patty Nelson and Grayson Smith is highly recommended reading for people who deal with addiction, either personally or professionally.”

“Very sobering read. No pun intended. I learned so much more than I already did about addiction. Praises to the authors for being so candid! I’m sure this has offered enlightenment to everyone who has read it, both addict and those of us who loves someone who is addicted.”

“I was overwhelmed by the raw honesty in which this book was written. It is a rare thing that people can talk so openly about the topic of addiction and even explore why the addiction was able to take hold. I was blown away that someone could go through this and still be alive, much less thrive into recovery. I usually wouldn’t read this kind of book as addiction has not been something I can identify with, but more and more I have people coming into my life that have been abused and I see how that transfers into adulthood. I really wanted to know what someone felt about this and how they viewed the world. You can climb out of any dark hole - you just can’t do it alone! Praise God and these two for sharing their stories!”

“The book is well written by two new authors. It is a revealing and gripping insight into a young man’s long journey through many years of addiction and the miracle of his ongoing recovery. Paralleling his experience is the journalling of his mother during these tormenting times as she learns to cope with his addiction, thus gaining strength and her own recovery with him. It is a true story of the devastating illness pervading our nation, destroying too many lives. There is an underlying message of faith and spirituality throughout this story, ultimately giving hope.”

“What I love about this book is that it is a resource I can keep returning to. I look to parts by Grayson to see that sobriety and serenity are possible, even when it seems that there is no possibility of hope. I read parts by Patty when I need a reminder of how important self-care is and that I can be okay even when someone I love is not okay. I appreciate Grayson and Patty’s willingness to honestly share their stories and I believe that their book will be an incredible help and resource to others struggling with addiction and codependency.”

“Highly recommend this book! This is the type of story that will inspire you and it is such a beautiful example of how courage, honesty and risk are shown to be examples of strength and not weakness.”

“Anyone going through addiction personally, or who has a family member who is entrapped, will learn and be helped by this book. It is real. It’s a sad story with much pain and suffering. I should know, it is my sister and nephew whose stories the book reveals. But, the ending gives one hope, and who doesn’t need hope when you are beyond rock bottom?

The reason I gave it at 4 stars and not 5, is to give readers a heads up about the language. I understand that was Grayson’s experience, but not everyone can handle it, whereas others will identify with it. I appreciate Patty’s perspective - true redemption and healing is only found in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.”

“I received this book today and could not put it down until I had read it cover to cover. It is so raw and honest. I really appreciated the story from both sides— the addict and his mother. Such an important book that offers insight into the life of an addict and the hope of recovery. Riveting!”

“A raw and beautiful story of heartbreak and redemption. This book will serve as a great encouragement to others walking the path of addiction and co-dependency. I highly recommend this fast paced, easy to read book.”