Psychotherapist Michael Pond is no stranger to the devastating consequences of alcoholism. He has helped hundreds of people conquer their addictions, but this knowledge did not prevent his own near-demise.

In this riveting memoir, he recounts how he lost his practice, his home, and his family - all because of his drinking. After scores of visits to the ER, a tour of hellish recovery homes, a stint in intensive care for end-stage alcoholism, and jail, Pond devised his own personal plan for recovery. He met Maureen Palmer, and together, they investigated scientific alternatives to the rigid abstinence doctrine pushed by 12-step programs.

"Pond's insights coupled with Palmer's section on evidence-based treatments make this an invaluable resource for readers battling their own addictions or concerned about their loved ones." (Publisher's Weekly)

"A vividly written page-turner...gripping and helpful" (Gabor Maté, The Globe and Mail)

"Few books have captured so well the challenge of managing the disease of addiction while simultaneously negotiating an often unresponsive health care system" (Dr. Keith Humphreys, former senior drug policy advisor, Obama administration)

“With tactile intimacy and surgical wit, Pond invites us to share the tragedy of his addiction with a sad smile. And then reveals a singular truth about how people quit. Truly one of a kind...a masterful job of describing the indescribable.” (Dr. Marc Lewis, neuroscientist and author of Memoirs of an Addicted Brain)