TOO MUCH received a 4+ star review, making it an IndieReader Approved title.
Following find an interview with author Cindy Lee Neighbors.
What is the name of the book and when was it published?
TOO MUCH, published August 24, 2024.
What’s the book’s first line?
“This is better than jail or a psych ward—is what I tell myself.”
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
TOO MUCH is the gripping true story of a woman’s struggle to reclaim her marriage, career, and sanity while confronting a dark past and battling the complexities of mental health within the military medical system.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
I was pushed to a breaking point. My mental health was suffering, and I felt trapped in a cycle of self-judgment and a desperate need for validation. Writing about my past with brutal honesty became my way forward, my path to healing and reclaiming my narrative.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
I believe TOO MUCH will resonate with anyone who has wrestled with mental health challenges, addiction, or the complexities of supporting a loved one facing these issues. It’s a raw and unflinching exploration of these topics, offering a glimpse into the inner turmoil and emotional journey of someone navigating these struggles.
What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character? Who—real or fictional—would you say the character reminds you of?
This is a challenging question because the main character is me! However, I strived to portray myself and the other characters with kindness and understanding. We all have flaws and weaknesses, and I wanted to make everyone relatable by showing those vulnerabilities. Ultimately, I believe everyone, no matter how “unlovable” they may seem at times, deserves to be heard and valued. No one is ever “too much.”
When did you first decide to become an author?
The dream of becoming a published author has been with me since middle school. I’ve always loved writing, from poems and short stories to vignettes. My early training in theater and performing arts, along with my studies in film production at USC, further fueled my passion for storytelling. I’ve even dabbled in screenwriting, a challenging field, especially for women.
Is this the first book you’ve written?
TOO MUCH is my first published book.
What do you do for work when you’re not writing?
I am still a licensed physician, but due to the circumstances detailed in TOO MUCH, I am not currently practicing medicine. I hope to continue making a difference in the community through creative arts, volunteer services, and advocacy for mental health awareness.
Which writer, living or dead, do you most admire?
Shakespeare.
Which book do you wish you could have written?
Hamlet or Macbeth. Though technically plays, they are masterpieces of storytelling. I also deeply admire The Giver by Lois Lowry.