How does one rise from the ashes of a funeral pyre, like the mythical phoenix? How do you salvage your life from the depths of criminality and addiction? You will learn in intimate detail how it's done. Join Ciro Angelista on his inspiring journey from an abusive childhood, to become a responsible parent and role model. Yes, the reader may be shocked by the brutality of his life, yet you will also be entertained, and ultimately fulfilled by his story as you follow his path to redemption. Though there are many "war stories" contained herein, this book is about hope most of all. Come, get on this emotional rollercoaster, but remember to strap yourself in, because there are many thrills and chills along the way! The author promises that you'll laugh and cry with Ciro as his story unfolds. Edward Acunzo is a former Psychiatric Counselor who has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and is experienced in several modalities of mental health treatment. This is his first novel. He's both author and poet, and has published a short story that's contained in the collection called "The Tainted Mirror Anthology," by Valerie Coleman.