Hope in Despair is Sharon Khoo’s first book and chronicles her biographical journey in overcoming Clinical Depression, CTSD (Complex Traumatic Stress Disorder), deep relational wounds and the stigma and shame of mental illness. Sharon was especially motivated to write about it as she wanted to do something to help others like her who need a way out of the darkness and pain. To not feel alone. And especially so for Asian women like her. During her journey of healing and writing, she discovered very limited resources to help Asian women in her situation feel like they were represented, recognised, honored or have a way out of mental illness that can relate to them. As such, she felt truly led by the Lord to share her story so it could be something useful and powerful to help others going through the same or similar thing as her. Sharon went through a complete journey of clinical, emotional and spiritual healing. She has since then also become a certified pastoral counsellor. While there is not enough out there talking about the struggles of mental and emotional health from a Christian Asian (and female!) perspective, we hope that this book will be able to change things. There is hope and light at the end of any dark tunnel in Christ, always. In this book, Sharon candidly reflects on how her growing up experiences shaped her coping mechanisms that carried into her adulthood. While each of our journeys are unique, I think there is a lot in her story that will resonate for those with Asian upbringing, and her path to freedom may give some hope and ideas to others who may find themselves still dealing with the ghosts of childhood trauma. For those who are giving care to others, this book may provide a behind the scenes understanding of why seemingly ordinary people struggle tremendously with life. Lastly, Sharon’s experience is a highly readable testament to God’s mysterious ways and grace in all of our lives. A recommended read. Reverend Canon Daniel Wee Senior Pastor Church of Our Saviour, Singapore