Life In Instalments, by Danielle Sartorelli

Life in Instalments is a raw and emotional memoir by Danielle Sartorelli, chronicled as “Donna,” that delves into the unpredictable, sometimes unbelievable events life throws our way. It narrates the heartbreaking journey of being a sister to a brother lost to addiction and crime, revealing how even the most ordinary moments can give way to unimaginable chaos.

Through years of struggle, Donna grapples with the painful reality of her brother James’s descent into drug addiction, criminal activity, and the relentless toll it takes on their family. From childhood adventures filled with innocence to the crushing weight of legal troubles and strained relationships, her story vividly portrays the turbulence and heartbreak that addiction inflicts on everyone it touches. As James spirals further into manipulation and self-destruction, Donna and her family face impossible choices—how much they can sacrifice to save him and how to navigate the betrayal, criminal acts, and emotional devastation that follow.

With unflinching honesty, Life in Instalments explores the complex dynamics of family, love, guilt, and the devastating consequences of addiction. It is a story of hope, heartbreak, and the gut-wrenching reality of trying—and failing—to save someone you love from themselves. A must-read for anyone who has experienced the impact of addiction, crime, or the struggle to heal and rebuild amidst the wreckage of a loved one’s choices.