Rachel Reviews: The First Call was Mine by Kay Blake
A memoir of a life which begins troubled but shows the true power of resilience and the importance of having the right support
Kay Blake's memoir has everything that I like about a real life recount. It has the confrontation of the past and the troubles that the person has faced; it has candour in its examination of the experiences and the resolutions reached, if that applies; it has humour, recognition, a humbleness to it and an appreciation of where that person is now and a true acknowledgement of the things that shaped them.
Kay Blake's life starts off with a lack of parental support and soon, being shifted from place to place and having to deal with being separated from her brother, her life seemingly takes a further turn into darker territory when she is given a placement in foster care. But for Kay, she actually finds herself in the first place that has given her stability and which provides her with a foundation on which to build a life all of her own.
There are ups and downs and Kay has a greater struggle than most with a severe lack of confidence and the influence of early role models whose bare input set the tone for her analysis of self i.e. to view things negatively, to think herself worthless, etc.
But what is resounding about Kay's memoir is not the pain that has been inflicted on her but the way that she has taken what she has learnt and been defiant in the face of those who would crush her. Sure, she's had battles but this is a book about rising above it, even though it may take all of your effort to do it and it may feel like the push-back has more strength than you could ever muster.
This book has dark moments but Kay doesn't want you to feel pity - she wants you to feel empowered. She wants to share her life with you so that if you are in the same place as she is or have been where she has been, then you can see a way through. She does this with an honest voice and a likability that makes you feel like you're in the company of a friend, and that she is reflecting what she has learnt from the best supporters in her life and passing on that nurture and advice to pay it forward.
An uplifting read of redemption and strength in the face of relentless obstacles.
Rachel Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
This review was first published on Reedsy Discovery where I was privileged to read it as an ARC:
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Comments (4)
This really struck me especially the idea that the place meant to be “temporary” was the first place that felt like home. That reversal says so much. Was that realization something Kay understood at the time, or only in hindsight? I’d love to know how she frames that shift in the memoir.
It is always encouraging when you hear about someone who has gotten the short shrift in life has found a way to love and believe in themselves. Good advice for all of us. Excellent review, Rachel!
Great review, Rachel. I’ve never read anything by Kay Blake so I had to google her. Even though romance literature is not my cup of tea, I appreciate that she wrote a memoir. What an interesting life she’s having!
Hi Rachel, You did a great job reviewing as always which is why I wanted to ask you a favor. My new book is due out mid April and my editor wants me to find some bata readers. Would you be interested in reading and reviewing it? If not it’s fine I understand. Thanks!