Best known for her riveting performance as Eva in the hit movie, Freedom Writers, starring Hilary Swank, April Hernandez Castillo was living the Hollywood dream. However, behind the glitz and glamor was a woman dealing secretly with a traumatic past.

From growing up in the tough streets of the Bronx during the Crack Epidemic Era, to being in an abusive relationship as a teenager, to almost taking her own life, April’s future looked bleak.

Embracing Me is April’s inspirational story of resilience, forgiveness, and overcoming adversity.

This heartfelt yet witty memoir explores April’s story of standing up against life’s many challenges with strength, perseverance, and faith. Journey with April as she takes us behind-the-scenes to some of the most intimate parts of her life, and learn from the wisdom she obtained along the way.