A brilliantly written book that addresses a unique trauma. It provided the psychological antidote I wanted. Diane Metcalf writes with confidence and clarity. Her compassionate voice will be a soothing balm for many broken and hurting hearts.

It is almost impossible to find words to describe my reading experience of ‘Lemon Moms.’ At times it triggered emotional responses- I personally relate, having grown up with a narcissistic family member. The author has a brilliant gift to share and I’m especially struck with the grace she shows. All I can say is: “Thank You & WOW.”

While the title of this book playfully refers to “lemon moms,” a play-off on lemon or defective vehicles, this is serious information. Metcalf treats the reader as an intelligent friend, guiding them through experiences that as a child the reader may have been taught to believe were normal. 

Lemon Moms: A Guide to Understand and Survive Maternal Narcissism is one of the best books I have read on this sensitive topic of maternal narcissism.

This book is terrific. I recommend it to all my patients who are working through these kinds of issues.

I have, in the past, explained my parenting by sadly saying that my children had been raised by someone with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, me. So this book was an eye-opener for me. This book outlines the effects of having lemon parents. I am enjoying doing the post-chapter action steps to get a handle on this for myself. Thank you, Diane, for this book. Its effects will be far-reaching. K

This was an excellent resource on my road to recovery from complex PTSD (childhood trauma). Diane is a great writer and “dumbed down” all the psychological terms to make them easier to understand. I read this book in less than a week. I couldn’t put it down. I highly recommend this to others if you think you could have been raised by a narcissistic mother.

My sister and I have dealt with narcissistic, verbal, physical abuse and just a complete genuine lack of maternal love via our own mother our entire lives. This book helps you realize that you are not alone and that there are ways to begin the healing process-no matter what stage of life.

Strongly recommend. I ordered a copy for my sis as well.

Very well written, has given me insight and learning and helped me overcome some of my traumas, has been helpful in my journey to health and wellness. I would like to add that within minutes of starting this book, everything clicked into place. Reading this has opened so many doors and unblocked so many areas, of confusion; I have no words to describe my joy in finding this tool for LIFE. Be Blessed.