The novel, The Shadows Within by Lynette Tait, is aptly named in that it deals with the manic and depressing effects of bipolar disorder. It is most enlightening and should be of great value to those suffering from the disorder as well as to those indirectly influenced-lovers, friends, or relatives. This can result in a greater understanding of the disorder and contribute to support and encourage empathy toward victims of this disorder. This disorder is interwoven in a gripping plot that includes drug smuggling and murder. A sense of levity is brought to the telling, and this contributes to the book being enjoyable and gripping. The spiritual aspects of the story deviate from conventional trends in religion, and this spirituality is sufficiently flexible to accommodate a variety of personal religious beliefs. Central to this spirituality is a very obvious need experienced by the author, a need to acknowledge the existence of a greater power. The author submits herself to his hand in her life and experiences a great surge of gratitude. The plot is a frenetic roller coaster that culminates in a violent twist in the tale. The author's will to overcome results in her main character being portrayed as a super woman capable of surmounting all challenges and obstacles. This journey into the shadows is not for the fainthearted.