I am proud to say the author is my cousin. I saw these girls every year when Daddy would take us to see Mama's mom and dad. I knew they were poor, but I didn't realize as a child the depth of the poverty. This book is a must read for anyone who has struggled with hard times. A lot of the book made me weep cause I can remember them from all different ages. But Tammy's story is raw and real. And Tammy's book is a work of strength and healing. Please read this book. It needs to be widely read. There are so many people who can benefit from the soul searching in this book. Review by Lisa Long Pociask.

This book is very touching. I laughed, I cried, but what I couldn’t do was begin to imagine the fear of living as Tammy and her family lived. Mental illness comes in many forms and we never know what one is going through. Be it the one with mental illness or the ones affected by the illness. If you’re wanting a book of how real mental illness can affect a family, you’ll want to read THE WEIGHT OF FEAR. True admiration for the author to be able to share her story!

There is not enough words in the world to convey just how amazing this book is! I wish I could give 10,000,000 stars! However, I have to settle for 5. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Tammy Higdon Stebbins speaks so eloquently about her heartbreaking life experiences throughout her childhood/adulthood. You will feel every emotion alongside her. I found myself smiling, while reading her telling of the happy moments with family, crying throughout, reading of the tragedies and terror she experienced, and in the end, rejoicing while reading of her being an overcomer! Yes, she led a childhood of surviving, and even into adulthood. But later in life… she was/is thriving. ❤️This is one of those books that leaves a lasting impression. For years to come, I know I will find myself thinking of Miss Stebbins, as well as her siblings and how God brought them through. Truly, a book for the ages!

A very empowering book. A testimony of the author's courage. This book will help others to know that they are not alone. Congratulations to the author.

This memoir was a page-turner. It paints a picture of what it was like to grow up in a very large, poor family in rural Kentucky, and how one family member can manipulate and control the family through cruelty. I felt as though I was there through all of the joy and pain, from early childhood and into later years and new families. I am thankful to the author for being so vulnerable and sharing her story with the world.

As I read, I had a taste of what it must have been like to grow up with "the weight of fear" as a burden to bear. Some passages are lighthearted, humorous, and full of love and joy, but there was always a lurking dread of what could happen at any moment to terrorize, shame, or frighten. Wounds were cut deep, but ultimately this is a story of healing and forgiveness.

Dear author, thank you for sharing this weight with us so you will no longer have to carry it alone.

Absolutely wonderful read ! I think so many of us can relate just a little to the childhood Tammy lived , my heart just melted at times and then I turn the page and find myself laughing out loud !! I’m inspired by all the writer overcome and persevered through, a truly great true life testimony of bravery , courage and triumph !

This book is about one woman’s strong will and dogged determination. Reading this book will touch all of your emotions. Some pages are hard to get through but well worth it! Reading this book confirms what is important in life.

Excellent Read. Thank you Tammy for sharing your story. I admire your bravery. Family secrets, shame and poverty can cause damage to the most innocent. Children should not suffer from society's judgement when they have no control of their environment. I hope those who read it see how there words and actions can cause lasting damage beyond the secrets. Once you start reading you won't be able to put it down. You will laugh and cry as you read Tammy's story. Parts of it you may even relate too. With determination and bravery Tammy overcame the obstacles life threw at her. I hope it inspires you as much as it did me.

What an unbelievable journey the author has been on, fighting for survival from the day she was born. It is amazing to me to see such strength and resilience. Even through the darkest pain and fear, the author never gave up and refused to be defeated. What an inspiration. Books like this always remind me to consider others’ journey and experiences and be gentle and understanding. I feel compassion and am grateful she has shared her story, giving insight on navigating abuse and how to overcome the darkest of dark. INCREDIBLE BOOK! The last paragraph is absolutely the perfect ending. That is how we heal!!!!!!!! F I V E S T A R S ⭐️! I will read again!