This one hits deep. We give our power away to so many people throughout life often without even realizing it. This book shines a light on that in the most validating and eye-opening way and will make you stop and say, “Wait… that wasn’t normal. And I didn’t deserve that.”

What I loved most is how the author continually reminds you that “it wasn’t just you.” When you’ve dealt with narcissists and those emotional mind games, it becomes so easy to second-guess your reality and rewrite your own experiences as “maybe I overreacted.” This book doesn’t let you fall back into that trap. Instead, it gently but firmly guides you toward reclaiming your truth.

If you’ve ever felt confused, minimized, or made to believe your lived experience was exaggerated or “all in your head,” this book will make you feel both seen and heard.

Breaking the Mirror by Grace Akinpetide is a lifeline for anyone who has ever doubted their own reality. With clarity and compassion, Akinpetide shines a light on the hidden patterns of narcissistic abuse and gives readers the language to finally understand what happened to them. This first book in the Shadows of Narcissism trilogy doesn’t just describe the problem, it empowers survivors to reclaim their confidence and trust their intuition again. The writing is insightful, validating, and deeply healing, making complex psychological concepts accessible without losing emotional depth. Each chapter feels like a gentle guide out of confusion and into self-awareness. By the end, you don’t just see the narcissist, you see yourself again, stronger and clearer than before. A must-read for anyone seeking truth, freedom, and the strength to protect their energy. I have been waiting a long time for a book like this.

Is there nothing Grace Akinpetide can’t write well?

I’ve been a fan for months now, and Breaking The Mirror, a first in trilogy, is absolutely stunning. In this groundbreaking tool, Akinpetide lays out the framework of narcissism and beckons its victims to let go of shame when falling into the trap that is part of a narcissist’s cycle of abuse. Her words are candid and well-researched, and she assures readers the best is yet to come in her forthcoming work on how to liberate yourself from narcissistic grips and thrive again.

She speaks with so much emotional intelligence and empathy that it’s a wonder this book isn’t being touted from the rooftops for its potential to change lives. I surely am shouting from the front seat of my parked car as my kid naps. I earmarked so many pages of this read. I can’t wait to explore the next book ASAP.

This isn't just another book on narcissism; it's a profound, essential toolkit for psychological liberation. Dr. Akinpetide moves beyond simple definitions, offering a deeply insightful framework for recognizing the subtle, high-level assaults on your personal reality. The book's structural merit lies in its shift from diagnosing others to proactively defining and defending your own energetic boundaries.
I particularly valued the way Dr. Akinpetide approaches relationships as complex systems that require methodical deconstruction. The prose is direct, empowering, and wholly non-critical, focusing entirely on your agency and growth. If you are fascinated by complex interpersonal themes and want to reclaim your intellectual and emotional self-sovereignty, this book is not merely helpful it is an essential guide for constructing a resilient life. Highly recommended for its clarity and practical depth.

empowered by BREAKING THE MIRROR, a first book in a proposed trilogy by Grace Akinpetide, who compassionately identifies and defines narcissistic personality disorder, a mental illness that inflicts deep emotional wounds in myriad psychological ways. Written in straightforward, accessible prose, Akinpetide’s comprehensive, well-presented research will help others recognize various types of narcissists overt and covert; those who exhibit an exaggerated sense of their own self-importance, often projecting an outward or carefully shrouded sense of entitlement, envy, arrogance, and exploitive behavior that serves to manipulate and control others. The detailed red flags and traps that Akinpetide empathetically spells out will help those impacted by every type of narcissist to better understand this mental condition in order to protect themselves, take control of social relationships, and find emotional healing. Kathleen Gerard, “Reading Between the Lines”

While this is an immensely helpful book for those trying to recover from being in a relationship with an untreated narcissist, I would argue it is also an excellent book for someone to read if they are trying to help a friend get out of such a circumstance. Humanity has survived for so long by being a community, after all. A house is built by multiple people with multiple tools. This book can be one such tool.

Akinpetide dedicates this book to those in the hands of narcissists. Breaking the Mirror offers glimpses into the minds and behaviors of narcissists while still reassuring the abused. It is used as a reflection for the abused to really see themselves for who they are and not from the lens of narcissists. From decoding the language they use to proving you were never the problem, this book allows for introspection.

Grace, through well-researched texts, provides a helpful way of identifying narcissism. She mostly focuses on learning that as the abused, you have no fault whatsoever. She helps bring understanding that if empathy is a trait one possesses, the narcissist uses that to their advantage. She brings light to the fact that even mentors, families, and friends can be narcissists; it isn't for romantic relationships only. It was really enlightening. I highly recommend.

A compelling narrative that gracefully explores pain, purpose, and the transformative nature of belief. It resonates deeply without overwhelming, offering peace, insight, and a renewed sense of purpose.

A raw, fearless memoir that blends vulnerability with conviction. It doesn’t just tell a story it offers companionship to anyone navigating uncertainty, reminding readers that beauty exists even in the hardest moments.

The pages unfold with deep authenticity, guiding readers through grief, healing, and faith without ever feeling forced. It’s the kind of book that brings clarity and calm during times of inner chaos.

Every sentence seems infused with intention and meaning. This is more than a story it’s a guide for the weary soul, offering quiet comfort and enduring strength. Deeply spiritual and emotionally satisfying.

This is a story that refuses to let go. Ethan describes Through Fire and Faith as a blueprint for emotional survival wrapped in sacred storytelling. It is brave, reflective, and speaks to readers who value emotional intelligence, spirituality, and redemption.

A beautifully crafted memoir that dives deep into the soul’s ability to rise through trials. The prose is elegant, the emotions raw yet dignified. Every page reflects strength, surrender, and the quiet grace that faith can bring.

Through Fire and Faith isn't just a book it's a spiritual encounter. Olivia was mesmerized by the lyrical writing and the emotional courage on every page. This memoir reads like poetry laced with truth, pain, and divine hope. A must-read for seekers and soul-searchers alike.

This book came into my life during a time of uncertainty, and it became a source of peace. The author writes with such clarity and compassion, making their journey relatable. I appreciated the honest portrayal of pain and the unwavering message of hope. Highly recommended for anyone needing comfort.