Ascent of a Woman by Mhairi Blyth is a powerful, compelling heartfelt memoir tackling trauma, resilience and hope that shines a much-needed light on subjects too often left in the shadows – infertility, miscarriage, early menopause, medical negligence, domestic abuse and family trauma.
With honesty and raw emotion, Blyth takes readers on a journey through some of life’s most painful experiences. Her story is one of heartbreak and adversity but also of extraordinary strength and hope. As she navigates multiple miscarriages, endometriosis, infertility struggles, a failed marriage and the long-term care of her father following a life-changing brain haemorrhage, Blyth refuses to shy away from the realities that so many women face but are rarely discussed openly.
Fuelled by a deep desire to offer solidarity to others who have experienced similar losses and challenges, Ascent of a Woman is much more than a personal account; it is a message of resilience and survival. Blyth shares her truth without filter, breaking the silence around stigmatised women’s health issues and challenging the societal expectation for women to push their bodies beyond breaking point in pursuit of motherhood.
The memoir also highlights a broader battle: confronting a healthcare system that sometimes fails to listen to women’s voices, leaving many feeling isolated and unheard. Through it all, Blyth’s unwavering determination to move forward offers a profound sense of hope to her readers — a reminder that even in the face of devastation, life can blossom anew.
Written in a way that allows readers to truly feel the emotions behind every event, Ascent of a Woman is both cathartic and inspiring. It stands as an authentic and moving testament to the strength found in vulnerability, and the transformative power of sharing our most difficult stories.
If you have ever felt overwhelmed by grief, trauma or societal pressures, this memoir offers comfort, courage and connection. It is a beacon for anyone seeking reassurance that healing — and joy — are possible.
The Author:
Mhairi Blyth was born in Kirkcaldy, Fife, and spent much of her childhood between Scotland and Saudi Arabia. She began writing poetry at the age of ten during a period of separation from her parents, using writing as a form of escape and solace.
Covering the turbulent decades of her life from childhood into early adulthood, Ascent of a Woman reflects the numerous personal battles she faced. Now in her forties, Mhairi lives in Fife with her husband Gary, their stepdaughter, grandson, her parents (whom she helps care for), three dogs, two cats, and a full and bustling household.
Alongside writing poetry, fiction and non-fiction, Mhairi enjoys cross-stitching, gardening and finding time for a well-earned rest. She is currently working on her next non-fiction project, continuing her mission to support and empower other women through her writing.
Ascent of a Woman is published by Chiselbury Publishing and is available in hardcover (£16.50, ISBN: 978-1916556652) and Kindle format (£5.99) via Amazon and Chiselbury Publishing.
