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Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
You're On Your Own by Lynnette Fritshaw tells the story of her amazing career as the first female firefighter in her hometown, including the journey of breaking barriers that were far from easy. She faced constant bullying and discrimination, and the struggles fuelled emotional issues for her that lasted a long time. In this honest memoir, Fritshaw talks about the sexism in male-dominated jobs, the pressure to stay silent, and how she eventually found her voice again. She doesn’t just share the physical challenges of firefighting—she also opens up about the emotional battles she fought behind the scenes, dealing with a system that wasn’t ready for change. Her story shows both the victories and the struggles of pushing for equality, giving readers a real look at the challenges women still face in traditionally male professions.
Lynnette Fritshaw’s honesty makes this book powerful, even for readers who have never been near a fire station. She speaks openly about the sexism she has to put up with but still keeps the focus on resilience and moving forward, rather than just pointing fingers. Her writing is raw and real, capturing both the excitement of firefighting and the emotional weight of discrimination. Some moments had me holding my breath—whether she was responding to an emergency or standing up to her coworkers, the tension was just as intense. The book reads like a novel at times, full of challenges, heartbreak, and victories that make you cheer for her. Overall, You're On Your Own is an inspiring and eye-opening memoir that shines a light on the struggles women face in emergency services while celebrating the strength it takes to keep going. I strongly recommend it as an eye-opening read.
