I’m CarrieAnn! I am 34 years old, and I have a weird cat named Jude and two beautiful nieces that fill my life with love. I have a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and currently work as an advocate for the unsheltered community in Minneapolis. In my spare time, I like to Diamond paint, watch Star Trek TNG, and be in nature.
You can buy the book here.
Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.
Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
The title of my book came from the anger I feel for my abusers. I thought about what I would say to them if I ever saw them again, and the first thing that came to mind was “you can’t keep us anymore.”
How did it feel when you first saw your book cover? Or when you first held your book in your hands?
I cried. It was like holding all of the traumatic events in my life in my hands. I felt like I finally had control over something that has made me feel so out of control all my life.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
I’ve worked in a law firm, fast food, dog kennel, gas station, etc. I’ve done it all.
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
One of those really great songs from a sci-fi movie where the hero gets hurt and almost dies but then comes out triumphantly and kills all the aliens. That low point, sad violin that gets louder and louder and is soon joined by an entire orchestra and becomes this beautiful melody that makes you feel all the feelings.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?
You’re not alone. I know that sounds cliche and maybe a little cheesy, but people suffering from dissociative disorders get overlooked or stereotyped. We are not murderers (like Hollywood has portrayed us) or people incapable of living a fulfilling life. We are stronger and more resilient than most, and we see the world in a way no one else does.
What new writing projects are you currently working on? Or, other projects that are not writing?
I am currently working on a second book about my most destructive alter, Raleigh. She’s not very cooperative and holds a lot of secrets. Writing her story is painful but very rewarding and freeing.
How was working with Atmosphere Press? What would you tell other writers who want to publish?
Every person I spoke with at Atmosphere was kind, thoughtful, and knowledgeable. I would work with them again in a heartbeat.
You can buy the book here.
Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.
