Stepping into a cozy bookstore is like entering a sensory paradise – the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafts through the air, mingling with the musty scent of old books and the hum of quiet conversations. But for me, the coffee shop vibe never quite fit. Give me a good book and a rich glass of wine instead, and I'm in heaven.
That's why I'm excited to introduce Shirmel's Sit and Sip, where the perfect book and wine pairings come together. This month, I'm honored to feature a powerful new release by none other than my sister, Trici—Fetricia Zenyoka. Join me as I sip, savor, and share my thoughts on a story that shook me to my core.
Pairing Recommendation: Cabernet Sauvignon & On the Edge of Air
As I turned the pages of On the Edge of Air, Fetricia Zenyoka’s raw and haunting testimony of survival, I poured a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon—a wine as bold and complex as the young girl’s voice echoing through each chapter. With every sip, the dark fruit and earthy notes mirrored the weight of her trauma, while hints of oak and spice spoke to her quiet, growing strength. This isn’t a wine for light moments; it’s one for reflection—for honoring scars, silence, and the fight to breathe free. Just like her journey, it lingers long after the last word.
One line from the book pierced straight through me: “The worst kind of cage is the one you can’t see.” That quote resonated so deeply with my own experience—being in a relationship where I felt trapped, yet couldn’t fully understand what was holding me back, or where to even begin to escape. This story isn't just words on paper—it’s a true testimony. One I deeply commend her for writing.
Because telling your truth? That’s never easy. Especially when it holds deep, painful, even embarrassing secrets. And yet here she is, baring it all—not just for close friends or family—but for the world. In this book, Fetricia doesn’t hold back. She lets every emotion bleed onto the page.
From the very first chapter, I was hooked. Not just because she’s my sister. Not just because parts of this mirrored my own life. But because it’s raw. It’s real. And it instantly clicked with my spirit.
So often, we as women carry the weight of others—protecting the ones we love, ignoring the red flags, silencing our own cries. We hide, not out of weakness, but out of loyalty and fear. And when there’s no outlet, when there’s no one to talk to, we lose ourselves in ways that are hard to explain.
But this book? It reminds you that you’re not alone. That no matter how heavy it gets, there is light. There is a way out. And more importantly—there is healing.
If you're in a situation where you're feeling unseen, unheard, or unsure—or if you know someone who is—please read this book. On the Edge of Air doesn’t disappoint. I cried real tears reading it, not just for her, but for myself. For every woman who’s ever felt broken, yet found a way to keep going.
This story is more than survival—it’s inspiration. It’s hope. It’s proof that even if it doesn’t seem like it now, you can make it through.
So here’s my advice:
Pour yourself a deep glass of Cabernet, click the link below to grab the book, and don’t forget to hit that follow button to subscribe to Shirmel’s Sit and Sip. Because if I give you anything here, it’s going to be the truth.
With love,
~ Shirmel
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Proud of you sis! This is amazing!