By the Time You Read This

The Space Between Cheslie's Smile and Mental Illness—Her Story in Her Own Words

By: April Simpkins

Narrated by: April Simpkins, Emana Rachelle

Length: 6 hrs and 7 mins

Publisher's summary

By the Time You Read This is the story former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst was about to publish before her tragic suicide. Her mother, April, wraps up the narrative by exploring the mental illness and depression that took her daughter’s life.

The text read, “By the time you get this …” This is the story of Cheslie Kryst, a former Miss USA, in her own words.

When the world awoke on the morning of January 30, 2022, many were shocked to learn of the tragic death of former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst.

For most people, the news was unfathomable. How could a young woman in the prime of her life—a pageant queen, accomplished attorney, Extra correspondent, and tireless advocate for charity organizations—have been lost to the world so suddenly?

By the Time You Read This shares the manuscript Cheslie wrote before her passing, her story in her own words—from the highest highs of passing two bar exams, winning Miss USA, and beginning an exciting career as an entertainment journalist to the lowest lows of heartbreak, betrayal, and persistent depression.

When Cheslie’s mother, April Simpkins, picks up the narrative, she shares for the first time what she experienced in the aftermath of Cheslie’s suicide. When faced with such a devastating loss, how does a mother find a way to carry on?

Whether you are someone who struggles to maintain your mental health, or you love someone who does, this book will share insight into a reality that impacts thousands of families every year—as well as provide hope for those who are left behind.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2024 April Simpkins (P)2024 Forefront Books

I seen her on tv.

I loved her words and the understanding of her mother’s feelings .. I too deal with depression each day.. and when I heard about her book I couldn’t wait to hear it.. I seen her on tv and her smile and how beautiful she is, I never thought she was like me.. fighting each day.. this book makes me realize I’m not alone.. and I thank you so much for giving us her last wish..

I felt like I knew her. She was very relatable.

I rarely say this, but I wish it could have been longer. Perhaps speaking a little on her work as a lawyer.

Powerful and heart wrenching

The story is amazing and very well presented. I am so glad that this book was recommended to me.

Life review

Details of the book that Chelsie Kryst gave and her

mother April Simpkins. I enjoyed all of the details as

well.

Thank you

Thank you for sharing the words of your brilliant daughter and the authenticity of your journey. Thank you for reminding us that we are not alone.

Beautiful and eye opening

I am so thankful that Cheslie Kryst's mom shared her daughter's life and struggles. I was touched that she felt compelled to share the last text message she received from her daughter. This book was informative on topics I never could have known. It was also relatable on a mental illness standpoint. I am so glad I was able to listen to this book. The narration was extremely soothing and compelling.

Suspecting the Unexpected

Listen like a life depends on it! Someone who you least expect, like Chelsie, may be fighting for life.

Powerful and Sobering

I smiled, I sobbed, and I saw myself in many of these honest reflections about pressure and purpose. This book is a must read for so many, especially those who are on journeys of decoupling their worth from their productivity. May you find true joy in your present… and nourishment for your soul. Thank you, Cheslie and April.

Beautiful

Such a great story of an amazing beautiful woman. Great story, I wish it had a different ending. :( so sad

Poignantly Gripping

The stars are for how Cheslie's and April's words arrested me in every chapter. How fitting to release this book during May since it's Mental Health Awareness Month. Though a licensed therapist, I wanted and needed to hear their words as a friend, as a cousin, as a loved one who still has questions of why, of how, and of did I do/say enough. I'm grateful for their courage to allow us into their pain to hopefully better understand contributing factors to the emotional pain connected to death by suicide.