Embracing the heart of a survivor, 'The Way I Used To Be' by Amber Smith is an intense journey into the life of Eden, a high school girl whose world is irrevocably shattered one night by the betrayal of her brother's best friend. Eden, once a symbol of innocence and simplicity, is forced to navigate the treacherous waters of trauma and its profound impact on her identity, relationships, and perception of truth. Spanning her high school years, this narrative unfolds in four poignant parts, each a testament to Eden's battle with the unspeakable, her resistance to voicing her anguish, and the transformative power of pain. In her descent into the depths of despair and the fight to reclaim her sense of self, Eden discovers an indomitable spirit, teaching us about the unyielding strength of the human heart in the face of adversity.