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Leslie Kain earned a degree in psychology at Wellesley College to become a therapist at McLean Hospital. She subsequently got her MBA at Boston University and began a career in business development for AI and government Intelligence organizations. She ultimately returned to psychology, serving as director in nonprofits (CHADD, NAMI) focusing on mental health.
Having written “nonfiction” (professional, technical, scientific) during her varied careers, she began dabbling in fiction. With several short stories published in literary journals and an anthology, she then turned to novels. Her second novel 'Secrets In The Mirror' is the first to be published, from Atmosphere Press 13 Sept 2022. She leverages her education, training and experience in psychology to write stories of inner conflict and emotional journeys toward transformation. Originally from “all over” the U.S. (including Boston, where a piece of her heart remains), she now resides in Mexico with her husband and cat Sheba.
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Secrets In The Mirror by Leslie Kain is the story of two twin brothers who diverge toward two very different paths in life due to their upbringing and environment. Gavin and Devon DiMassi couldn't have turned out more different if they were not related. Bullied by his brother and psychologically abused by his father his entire life, all Gavin wants is to go to culinary school and make something of himself. On the other hand, Devon ventures into a life of drugs and crime, often emboldened by his father's description of him being a "winner." After a recurring incident of domestic violence leaves his mother dead, Gavin vows to leave his dysfunctional family and never look back. But scars of the past can spring up unexpectedly, as Gavin realizes when his brother forces his way back into his life again.
Author Leslie Kain crafts a captivating family drama, delving into some relevant issues such as domestic violence, abuse, addiction, and much more. Secrets In The Mirror perfectly demonstrates what happens when family trauma and dysfunction are passed down through generations, leaving the young little room to maneuver their lives on their own. This is a fascinating study of how dysfunctional families can affect the lives of children who have no choice but to accept their elders' words and embrace them at face value. The characters are complex and layered, much like real people. Both Gavin and Devon have distinct personalities, and their contrasting outlook on life makes for a compelling dynamic. Highly recommended.
