Quicksand was originally published and released for sale in 2014.
I didn't release it for distribution, though, because I wasn't satisfied with the original cover. This newer cover is much more appropriate. It's somewhat symbolic, too.
First, if you're involved in a 12-Step program, you may find you are never alone- and that's not always a good thing.
Second, even if you come in relatively intact, you'll find yourself- your Self- disappearing.
The main body of Quicksand includes three parts. First, the majority of the book covers my own experiences and observations. It is by no means complete, for to have covered everything would have resulted in the book being at least twice as long.
Second, when Quicksand was almost finished, I met other people who also needed a "voice." I offered the opportunity to relate their own experiences. While some were actually afraid to speak out, some individuals told their stories. An important point to note: with the exception of removing one person's email address, the section is essentially copy/paste of their stories. I did not change or edit anything- I didn't want the individuals to read the finished book and react "That's not what I said!" or "That's not the way I said it!" Considering how familiar some of us were with our words and actions twisted within 12-Step programs, I felt verbatim was the correct and respectful way to present other people's stories. It's also the reason I decided to self-publish- so it would not be edited.
Third, I included a detailed section of references. Prior to publishing Quicksand, I requested and received permission from numerous experts and professionals in addiction, recovery, and related fields to quote and reference their material.
As George Bernard Shaw said: We must always think about things, and we must think about things as they are, not as they are said to be.
As you may hear in a 12-Step program: Let your Sponsor and The Program do your thinking for you.
"Welcome to the nightmare of Quicksand.."
QUICKSAND- THE DARKER SIDE OF 12-STEP PROGRAMS is available at Lulu, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon