Book excerpt: BACKBONE is a Memoir about the life of Tamara M Hamil, her struggles as a child, and the psychological damage that almost destroyed her as an adult. While bouncing back and forth between parents and family members she was molested, raped, and beaten which made her question her identity, self worth, and love. Living in silence and fear while protecting her abusers is now behind her, but the transformation to realize her God given talent, reclaim her identity, and self worth was far from easy. Tamara didn't choose her circumstances, but they chose her. Instead of being defeated by them, she has chosen to be a voice for women with similar struggles, hoping to help them to understand forgiveness and gain an understanding that no one controls your destiny but you. Tamara hopes that her story will connect with at least one person and inspire them to break free from their mental shackles and reach their full potential.