The Heroin Diaries: 10 Year Anniversary Edition: A Year in the Life of a Shattered Rock Star

Nikki is one of the most talented people I have ever read about. He gives you his guts and makes no apologies. This book was so hard to put down. Brutally honest and humbling. He set out for his dream and never looked back. Thank God he survived! Too many talented people have gone too soon. Thank you Nikki for your soul, your heart, and most of all your talent!

This book made me feel, it's as simple as that. Addiction is awful, confusing, bewildering for the addict, and couple that with a lost childhood, a sensitive soul, tons of money, loads of free time and no supervision? And the guy's a rock star with pressures of being successful? That's too much weight for anyone to carry. Poor Nikki, especially at his young age in this book. Captivating read.

Very good condition. Happy with purchase. Shipping was quick and packaging was good.

I really didn't know much about Motley Crue (I couldn't have named a single member of the band before I read Motley Crue: The Dirt), but I started reading a rock biography which started me on a kick of reading several of them. I got intrigued by similarities in rock musicians' childhoods, especially those who became famous in the 1980s. In many ways, Nikki Sixx follows that pattern, but he seemed to take spiraling down to a whole new level. I am a fast reader, but this book took me a while to get through, at least the first part. His descriptions of his habits and thoughts during his heroin addiction were so vivid and disturbing that I found it hard to bring myself to read more of it. I was able to read faster once I hit a point where I felt he was turning a corner with his addiction, but it was hard to turn those pages for more scenes of self-destruction. One thing that Nikki did was allow others to comment on events that took place at the time. This added a strongly needed element of sanity to flesh out the background of what was going on in his life at the time. Well, most of the people were sane, if you don't count Vanity and Tommy Lee, who were both on their own wild ride. Vanity, who in the book insists on being referred to as Evangelist Denise, takes the opportunity of being allowed to comment on the events that occurred during her relationship with Nikki by preaching about how saved she is now. Each comment from her seemed to be focused on pushing her religious beliefs. At the time of their relationship she was addicted to crack cocaine, an addiction that eventually let to her death in 2016 from kidney failure even though she had been clean for years. I don't object to Vanity's religious beliefs, or her expressing her faith in God and gratitude of overcoming her addition. My observation on her comments is that there was an element of shrill, screeching insanity in her insistence of pounding her beliefs into each statement that she made. It was as if she had exchanged one addiction for another. She seemed to have missed the concept that she was supposed to comment about her relationship with Nikki, but perhaps there is a strong message in the fact that she focused on her own beliefs instead of the interaction she had with a man that she claimed she had been engaged to. There was only one or two of her many comments where she actually addressed their relationship. I didn't get the impression that she actually felt that much for Nikki, or she wasn't willing to admit to any deep emotions, but maybe that says a lot of addiction as well. An interesting book, but not that easy to get through if you find addiction to be a sad experience to witness.

Couldn't put it down.

Can't wait to read.

First, I have never tried heroin. I was offered it once as a teenager and turned it down flat. I come from a family who has many members who have succumbed to various alcohol and drug addictions. I have lost family members to alcohol, cocaine, heroin, and others. I personally chose not to go down this road. I read this book attempting to possibly gain more insight into my loved ones who did use IV drugs. I got a bit of a better idea. More on me later most of you want a book review. The Heroin Diaries on one hand are very telling stories about drug addiction. Telling us about being strung out and vomiting and having diarrhea at the same time should not come across as glamorous to anyone. On the other hand I would have liked to have seen him really spell out his unique situation a little more. Yes, he actually died and was brought back to life twice. Yes, he did have multiple relapses and talks about how he had to deal with his personal emotional demons before he could STAY Straight. But one of the things he mentions (but not in as much detail as I would like to have seen) is how his rock stardom, and subsequent million dollar finances allowed him to do this. Nikki didn't have to physically steal from his family and friends to get his drugs. He burned through a million dollars in drugs (mostly heroin and cocaine) in one year. I would have loved one entry that stated, "If I wasn't an international rock star I would have lived on the street and stolen from everyone around me. I probably would have ended up dead long before my two failed attempts. I had so many people looking after me I didn't have to be responsible at all. They enabled me, and I had the money to do it. If you think this is glamorous, just think, instead of having the ability to spend a million dollars on drugs in one year, you'll burn every friend and family member you ever once loved. They will never trust you until your clean, and you will end up on the streets soaked in your own urine shooting drugs without anyone at your side dying and wishing you were dead." He did do a little of this with his stories concerning Ratt guitarist Robin Crosby. Robin lost his battle with heroin. Robin got AIDS from sharing needles with vagabond street junkies, and died homeless and broke. From being a millionaire with platinum records to dying homeless without shoes on the streets of Los Angelas. Those are the stories I would have love a little more of. Not all together Nikki's fault. He found a way through the heroin death trap. Many do not. My adopted father lost his brother to heroin that way. I got to watch my dad cry like a baby. I give Nikki a lot of credit for putting this in print to begin with. However, because some of the drug stories are in turn associated with the band "Motley Crue" I feel drug use was occasionally glamorized in the "rock Star" persona. I do feel he did a good job of showing the lonely aspect of drugs, the lying, the nights by yourself, the paranoia. All in all he did a good job. Last but not least I want to tell you about those who don't use drugs, alcohol, or have other addictions but are hurt by them. The little girl who's mother had an addiction and kept getting them evicted from every home they ever had. The anger that stems from that is great, and that little girl grew up to be a nurse but had to work to overcome her childhood. The little boy who watched his mother falling asleep drunk in a bowl of cheerios everyday when he came home from school. He saw the needle fall out of his uncles pocket with a spoon, and didn't understand why his brother had all those "cigarette burns" on his arms that were irregularly shaped (you know track marks). That little boy also grew up, became a nurse, and married the the little girl above. They both chose to go on a different path than the examples they saw growing up. But what they didn't quite understand, and that which would take them years to understand is the impact it had on them. One became angry and had to deal with those issues for years because of her childhood. The other learned to ignore everything as if it didn't exist. Imagine being a nurse a year out of school and getting your first heroin addict. Charge nurse tells you, "Typical infected abscess from injecting." You go in and introduce yourself, and you leave the room like, "What, typical what, that guy is just a normal dude." My coworkers looked at me like I was out of my mind. I had completely shut off seeing addiction in any form as a defense mechanism. Drug addicts around the home were normal when I was growing up. My uncles friend was a chiropractor before he lost his license and family to cocaine addiction. Last I heard, he lost his two new children (because his first wife divorced him and took his first child) he had with his new girlfriend (a heroin addict) because the kids came out addicted. Though he (the former chiropractor) is working at a pawn shop for minimum wage, living in a slum, and trying to avoid the dealers he owed money to. How glamorous is that? Unless your a rock star with a million dollars to spend on smack and blow you'll end up dead and it won't be glamorous.

In 1987 Motley Crue recorded Girls, Girls, Girls, toured with the then unknown Guns 'n Roses, sold out shows around the country (and world) and partied like they always had a day left to live. The previous book to tell the tale of this excess, The Dirt, felt more like a glorification of the excesses of the band, even though it addressed all the drug abuse Nikki Sixx subjected himself to, subsequent overdoses that almost killed him and reemergence towards a cleaner lifestyle. Basically, you take those chapters of The Dirt and make them their own book and you have The Heroin Diaries. The book is set up like a diary. In fact, it is a diary: the book accounts the year (Christmas 1986 to Christmas 1987) that Nikki spiraled down a deep hole of addiction and depression and kept insanely careful track of it in a notebook. In addition to his entries (cleaned up a bit so we can understand them), Nikki includes commentary from himself as well as those who were close to him at the time (it's clear that a lot of care and work was undertaken to get all of these voices lined up to tell this story). I'm reminded of one entry where Nikki says in passing that he had a blast at a radio interview the other night, but probably got the DJ fired. The commentary afterwards is the DJ's account of the debauchery that went down that night (and, yes, he did indeed get fired). Nikki doesn't pull any punches and asked all of his contributors to do the same. They are brutally honest and help paint a magnificent picture of what it is like to find yourself on a speeding train charging forward into a brick wall. If you ever wanted to know what the rock and roll lifestyle was like, or what it feels like to be addicted to drugs, this is the memoir for you. It's actually amazing to me that there could possibly have been any lucid entries. We assume of course that a number of them were cleaned up by the editor, but there are times when you are stunned at Sixx's foresight into the future of the industry (the eventual downfall of the hair metal genre by the flood of copycat bands), the future of the band (that they'd make their next record a #1 album) and even his own dim foreboding of the consequences of his lifestyle. He talks to the diary as if it were a person, as if it were his wife and only confidant in the world during that year (and it probably was). He addresses it with things like, "I have to go to the show now, but I'll see you when I get back tonight." When he departs without an entry for several days (sometimes simply because he is sober and sane) he is always apologetic and makes jokes about how he only writes to it when he is on drugs. The book pages are broken up with scribblings, notes that presumably came out of the original dairy (To Do lists, lost lyric ideas, notes and the like), drug abuse inspired art and photographs of the people and places addressed, as well as song lyrics from a whole career of Sixx's songwriting. There are Motley Crue songs, songs from his 58 solo album, and songs from bands Nikki has adored in his life and reflect his lifestyle then and now. Each chapter is a month in the year, with an introduction, intermission and afterward included to set us up, take a break to reflect and plow forward into the future. The afterward in particular is interesting, because in it Sixx explains what happened in his life after that year: getting on and off the drugs, his failed marriages, his struggling band, his solo projects; everything (he calls it his Life After Death). It goes up to and beyond everything covered in The Dirt, and answers a number of niggling questions leftover from that book, like what was going on during the Girls Tour, what did some of the people mentioned in that book think about things discussed (Slash talking about his interactions with Nikki back then and his own struggling band and drug addictions), or whatever had become of certain events (like all that drama with Vanity). I found myself taking the ups (yes, there were good days) and downs along with Nikki on his ride of drug use, paranoia, rage, attempts at detox, thrills and pitfalls of touring, women, joys of songwriting and love of music, falling off the wagon, struggling on, wondering if he was killing himself, hoping for a way out, dying and coming back to life. I found myself reading an entry, wondering a question about it, and having it answered by the commentary. I also found myself wondering if the now clean and sober Vanity, turned Evangelist, is really any less insane than she was back then. Sure the drugs are gone, but the woman seems like she has a few permanent screws loose (there's one entry where she rambles on about the devil, leaving you thinking, "huh?," and then there's Nikki's commentary under hers going "Huh?" as well: fantastic!). The book has a message and Nikki Sixx has a hope that by writing this, that by laying his weaknesses bare for the world to see, that maybe that message can get through to people: the tunnel is dark but there is a light at the end, and even though it's probably better if you don't get into that tunnel in the first place, just because you are there doesn't mean there is no hope for you. I'm definitely sold on this book, as I was already sold on the sountrack weeks ago. I highly recommend it to fans of the band, fans of rock and roll, people interested in learning about the dangers of excess and any open-minded and curious individuals in general. It's a good read all around.

Fabulous read. So many people struggle, and the depth of darkness Nikki experienced is similar to what many go through. There is hope. This is a book of hope and healing.

Hard to imagine that the human body can withstand this kind of drug abuse!! Captivating, and intriguing. I wanted to read more

Nikki is one of the most talented people I have ever read about. He gives you his guts and makes no apologies. This book was so hard to put down. Brutally honest and humbling. He set out for his dream and never looked back. Thank God he survived! Too many talented people have gone too soon. Thank you Nikki for your soul, your heart, and most of all your talent!

This book made me feel, it's as simple as that. Addiction is awful, confusing, bewildering for the addict, and couple that with a lost childhood, a sensitive soul, tons of money, loads of free time and no supervision? And the guy's a rock star with pressures of being successful? That's too much weight for anyone to carry. Poor Nikki, especially at his young age in this book. Captivating read.

Very good condition. Happy with purchase. Shipping was quick and packaging was good.

I really didn't know much about Motley Crue (I couldn't have named a single member of the band before I read Motley Crue: The Dirt), but I started reading a rock biography which started me on a kick of reading several of them. I got intrigued by similarities in rock musicians' childhoods, especially those who became famous in the 1980s. In many ways, Nikki Sixx follows that pattern, but he seemed to take spiraling down to a whole new level. I am a fast reader, but this book took me a while to get through, at least the first part. His descriptions of his habits and thoughts during his heroin addiction were so vivid and disturbing that I found it hard to bring myself to read more of it. I was able to read faster once I hit a point where I felt he was turning a corner with his addiction, but it was hard to turn those pages for more scenes of self-destruction. One thing that Nikki did was allow others to comment on events that took place at the time. This added a strongly needed element of sanity to flesh out the background of what was going on in his life at the time. Well, most of the people were sane, if you don't count Vanity and Tommy Lee, who were both on their own wild ride. Vanity, who in the book insists on being referred to as Evangelist Denise, takes the opportunity of being allowed to comment on the events that occurred during her relationship with Nikki by preaching about how saved she is now. Each comment from her seemed to be focused on pushing her religious beliefs. At the time of their relationship she was addicted to crack cocaine, an addiction that eventually let to her death in 2016 from kidney failure even though she had been clean for years. I don't object to Vanity's religious beliefs, or her expressing her faith in God and gratitude of overcoming her addition. My observation on her comments is that there was an element of shrill, screeching insanity in her insistence of pounding her beliefs into each statement that she made. It was as if she had exchanged one addiction for another. She seemed to have missed the concept that she was supposed to comment about her relationship with Nikki, but perhaps there is a strong message in the fact that she focused on her own beliefs instead of the interaction she had with a man that she claimed she had been engaged to. There was only one or two of her many comments where she actually addressed their relationship. I didn't get the impression that she actually felt that much for Nikki, or she wasn't willing to admit to any deep emotions, but maybe that says a lot of addiction as well. An interesting book, but not that easy to get through if you find addiction to be a sad experience to witness.

Couldn't put it down.

Can't wait to read.

First, I have never tried heroin. I was offered it once as a teenager and turned it down flat. I come from a family who has many members who have succumbed to various alcohol and drug addictions. I have lost family members to alcohol, cocaine, heroin, and others. I personally chose not to go down this road. I read this book attempting to possibly gain more insight into my loved ones who did use IV drugs. I got a bit of a better idea. More on me later most of you want a book review. The Heroin Diaries on one hand are very telling stories about drug addiction. Telling us about being strung out and vomiting and having diarrhea at the same time should not come across as glamorous to anyone. On the other hand I would have liked to have seen him really spell out his unique situation a little more. Yes, he actually died and was brought back to life twice. Yes, he did have multiple relapses and talks about how he had to deal with his personal emotional demons before he could STAY Straight. But one of the things he mentions (but not in as much detail as I would like to have seen) is how his rock stardom, and subsequent million dollar finances allowed him to do this. Nikki didn't have to physically steal from his family and friends to get his drugs. He burned through a million dollars in drugs (mostly heroin and cocaine) in one year. I would have loved one entry that stated, "If I wasn't an international rock star I would have lived on the street and stolen from everyone around me. I probably would have ended up dead long before my two failed attempts. I had so many people looking after me I didn't have to be responsible at all. They enabled me, and I had the money to do it. If you think this is glamorous, just think, instead of having the ability to spend a million dollars on drugs in one year, you'll burn every friend and family member you ever once loved. They will never trust you until your clean, and you will end up on the streets soaked in your own urine shooting drugs without anyone at your side dying and wishing you were dead." He did do a little of this with his stories concerning Ratt guitarist Robin Crosby. Robin lost his battle with heroin. Robin got AIDS from sharing needles with vagabond street junkies, and died homeless and broke. From being a millionaire with platinum records to dying homeless without shoes on the streets of Los Angelas. Those are the stories I would have love a little more of. Not all together Nikki's fault. He found a way through the heroin death trap. Many do not. My adopted father lost his brother to heroin that way. I got to watch my dad cry like a baby. I give Nikki a lot of credit for putting this in print to begin with. However, because some of the drug stories are in turn associated with the band "Motley Crue" I feel drug use was occasionally glamorized in the "rock Star" persona. I do feel he did a good job of showing the lonely aspect of drugs, the lying, the nights by yourself, the paranoia. All in all he did a good job. Last but not least I want to tell you about those who don't use drugs, alcohol, or have other addictions but are hurt by them. The little girl who's mother had an addiction and kept getting them evicted from every home they ever had. The anger that stems from that is great, and that little girl grew up to be a nurse but had to work to overcome her childhood. The little boy who watched his mother falling asleep drunk in a bowl of cheerios everyday when he came home from school. He saw the needle fall out of his uncles pocket with a spoon, and didn't understand why his brother had all those "cigarette burns" on his arms that were irregularly shaped (you know track marks). That little boy also grew up, became a nurse, and married the the little girl above. They both chose to go on a different path than the examples they saw growing up. But what they didn't quite understand, and that which would take them years to understand is the impact it had on them. One became angry and had to deal with those issues for years because of her childhood. The other learned to ignore everything as if it didn't exist. Imagine being a nurse a year out of school and getting your first heroin addict. Charge nurse tells you, "Typical infected abscess from injecting." You go in and introduce yourself, and you leave the room like, "What, typical what, that guy is just a normal dude." My coworkers looked at me like I was out of my mind. I had completely shut off seeing addiction in any form as a defense mechanism. Drug addicts around the home were normal when I was growing up. My uncles friend was a chiropractor before he lost his license and family to cocaine addiction. Last I heard, he lost his two new children (because his first wife divorced him and took his first child) he had with his new girlfriend (a heroin addict) because the kids came out addicted. Though he (the former chiropractor) is working at a pawn shop for minimum wage, living in a slum, and trying to avoid the dealers he owed money to. How glamorous is that? Unless your a rock star with a million dollars to spend on smack and blow you'll end up dead and it won't be glamorous.

In 1987 Motley Crue recorded Girls, Girls, Girls, toured with the then unknown Guns 'n Roses, sold out shows around the country (and world) and partied like they always had a day left to live. The previous book to tell the tale of this excess, The Dirt, felt more like a glorification of the excesses of the band, even though it addressed all the drug abuse Nikki Sixx subjected himself to, subsequent overdoses that almost killed him and reemergence towards a cleaner lifestyle. Basically, you take those chapters of The Dirt and make them their own book and you have The Heroin Diaries. The book is set up like a diary. In fact, it is a diary: the book accounts the year (Christmas 1986 to Christmas 1987) that Nikki spiraled down a deep hole of addiction and depression and kept insanely careful track of it in a notebook. In addition to his entries (cleaned up a bit so we can understand them), Nikki includes commentary from himself as well as those who were close to him at the time (it's clear that a lot of care and work was undertaken to get all of these voices lined up to tell this story). I'm reminded of one entry where Nikki says in passing that he had a blast at a radio interview the other night, but probably got the DJ fired. The commentary afterwards is the DJ's account of the debauchery that went down that night (and, yes, he did indeed get fired). Nikki doesn't pull any punches and asked all of his contributors to do the same. They are brutally honest and help paint a magnificent picture of what it is like to find yourself on a speeding train charging forward into a brick wall. If you ever wanted to know what the rock and roll lifestyle was like, or what it feels like to be addicted to drugs, this is the memoir for you. It's actually amazing to me that there could possibly have been any lucid entries. We assume of course that a number of them were cleaned up by the editor, but there are times when you are stunned at Sixx's foresight into the future of the industry (the eventual downfall of the hair metal genre by the flood of copycat bands), the future of the band (that they'd make their next record a #1 album) and even his own dim foreboding of the consequences of his lifestyle. He talks to the diary as if it were a person, as if it were his wife and only confidant in the world during that year (and it probably was). He addresses it with things like, "I have to go to the show now, but I'll see you when I get back tonight." When he departs without an entry for several days (sometimes simply because he is sober and sane) he is always apologetic and makes jokes about how he only writes to it when he is on drugs. The book pages are broken up with scribblings, notes that presumably came out of the original dairy (To Do lists, lost lyric ideas, notes and the like), drug abuse inspired art and photographs of the people and places addressed, as well as song lyrics from a whole career of Sixx's songwriting. There are Motley Crue songs, songs from his 58 solo album, and songs from bands Nikki has adored in his life and reflect his lifestyle then and now. Each chapter is a month in the year, with an introduction, intermission and afterward included to set us up, take a break to reflect and plow forward into the future. The afterward in particular is interesting, because in it Sixx explains what happened in his life after that year: getting on and off the drugs, his failed marriages, his struggling band, his solo projects; everything (he calls it his Life After Death). It goes up to and beyond everything covered in The Dirt, and answers a number of niggling questions leftover from that book, like what was going on during the Girls Tour, what did some of the people mentioned in that book think about things discussed (Slash talking about his interactions with Nikki back then and his own struggling band and drug addictions), or whatever had become of certain events (like all that drama with Vanity). I found myself taking the ups (yes, there were good days) and downs along with Nikki on his ride of drug use, paranoia, rage, attempts at detox, thrills and pitfalls of touring, women, joys of songwriting and love of music, falling off the wagon, struggling on, wondering if he was killing himself, hoping for a way out, dying and coming back to life. I found myself reading an entry, wondering a question about it, and having it answered by the commentary. I also found myself wondering if the now clean and sober Vanity, turned Evangelist, is really any less insane than she was back then. Sure the drugs are gone, but the woman seems like she has a few permanent screws loose (there's one entry where she rambles on about the devil, leaving you thinking, "huh?," and then there's Nikki's commentary under hers going "Huh?" as well: fantastic!). The book has a message and Nikki Sixx has a hope that by writing this, that by laying his weaknesses bare for the world to see, that maybe that message can get through to people: the tunnel is dark but there is a light at the end, and even though it's probably better if you don't get into that tunnel in the first place, just because you are there doesn't mean there is no hope for you. I'm definitely sold on this book, as I was already sold on the sountrack weeks ago. I highly recommend it to fans of the band, fans of rock and roll, people interested in learning about the dangers of excess and any open-minded and curious individuals in general. It's a good read all around.

Fabulous read. So many people struggle, and the depth of darkness Nikki experienced is similar to what many go through. There is hope. This is a book of hope and healing.

Hard to imagine that the human body can withstand this kind of drug abuse!! Captivating, and intriguing. I wanted to read more

Disclaimer: This review is shaped by personal opinion, contains modest spoilers, and is only possible because of the hard work of the author(s) who wrote this book (to whom, for better or worse, I am grateful). This book delivered exactly what I expected: a rambling, chaotic, drug-filled compilation of musings and interviews roughly crammed into the form of a memoir. For all of this, the book both satisfies and disappoints. The book satisfies the idle curiosity I had about life as a rock star (Nikki Sixx--a name that proved irksome every time I was required to read it and now proves even more so in the typing--was the writer and bassist behind Motley Crue). It also proves to be an interesting account of drug addiction from an insider's perspective. The book traces a year in the life of Nikki as he consumes copious amounts of cocaine, heroin, and basically anything else available to him. In the midst of these struggles, he kept a journal which he has now edited and interspersed with interviews from characters in his journals. The concept is intriguing and executed well. However, the narrative, as with the life of a heroin-fueled touring rock star, is tangled and fairly repetitive. What is most compelling in this story is the author's (see how I avoided typing his name this time?) honesty. He is unflinchingly honest, mostly candid, and even includes excerpts of interviews with people who hate his guts. The book delivered exactly what I expected. Because of this, it was a bit boring to read at times. At a certain point, one becomes inured to another tale of drug induced delusions in the closet of a rock star's mansion. Also, I don't know where to include this in my review, but I feel compelled to at least comment: Vanity is seriously insane. This cocaine freebasing groupie (of Prince first, and then Motley Crue), was a wild character in the author's journals. In her interview portions of the book, even with the benefit of hindsight and the ability to compose her thoughts, she is even kookier. She went from a junkie to a true religious fanatic who calls herself an evangelist and speaks often of Satan's influence in Nikki's life and his need for exorcism. She is a larger-than-life character whom I was never thrilled to see show up in the story again, and yet never put the book down when she was actively involved. One other miscellaneous note: I would have preferred this book in a standard format rather than the highly stylized rock star-esque journal format interspersed with pictures. Maybe I'm just not meant for the rock-and-roll lifestyle, because the violent imagery and hastily censored nudes gave me uncomfortable anxiety as I tried to shield the book (and my embarrassment) from my fellow public transportation commuters. I have not read many rock star memoirs or tales of drug addicts' recoveries. This story provided exactly what I expected and, in doing so, left me a bit underwhelmed. Overall, I enjoyed reading about this lifestyle that is so dramatically different than my own, but I would not read the book again and, because of the content, would be hesitant to recommend to others. B.

This book will definitely give you a view of what it's like to be in the mind of someone who is not happy at all. However it is extremely repetitive and most it is just the same story told over and over again. Only the last couple of chapters include his life after addiction. Worth a read for a new perspective, but it honestly could have been condensed into just 100 pages. To be fair I'm also not a Motley Crue fan so that may have contributed to my lack of interest too.

Nikki Sixx gives a very powerful, personal and private look into his battle with addiction and depression. When I started to read this book and I was immediately pulled into his story. I could not put it down . I finished it in one night. I felt like I was there witnessing his demise. I found myself holding my breath. I could feel his desperation. I could feel his fear, his helplessness, loneliness and his pain. His story really takes you to the darker side addiction. The drug dealers, the excuses, the lies, the psychosis, toxic friends, dope sickness, the isolation, and the overdoses. The drug addiction was taking over his life. His friends and managers looked the other way. Nikki found away to just function enough to get through the day. He tries to quit or least tells himself that but the heroin is so much stronger. He is not only using herion. He was also using cocaine and mixing it with herion alcohol and other drugs. Nikki does not make excuses in the book to try to excuse his behavior. He is brutally honest in the sharing his of addiction. I really like the way the book is written with use of anecdotal notes placed throughout the book from those who knew him best and those who were apart of his addiction. Nikki also shares his insights into his addiction. He never made excuses in any part of the book. He inspires hope and courage to face those demons! Thank you Nikki Six for sharing your pain. Congratulations on your 21 years of soberity.

I couldn't recommend this book more! I laughed, I cried, Oh No'd and delighted in the gritty, self absorbed transformation of Mr. Sixx's character. I appreciate his willingness to share such a dark spiral and rebirth as a monument to struggle and success. As a teacher, I recognize many of the self-defensive Shields children put around themselves as protection, and I have always made it a mission of mine to help them lower those defenses in order to find the help or human connection they need. This book does that on a much larger scale, and I hope that others have found it as creative and influential as I have. Thank you for sharing.

One of the things that I usually find a little problematic with rock starts memoirs is that, even with ghostwriters, they still come across as a little dense or dim witted. Rarely do you see any growth or introspection and when you do, it’s usually kind of ham fisted or performative. That’s not the case here. This book is a grueling, honest look at what that “rock n’ roll” lifestyle can do to a human being. It’s shocking, sordid, sad, and often disgusting...but it’s beautiful in its truth. Because of personal experience with addicts, I am often unforgiving of them, but this book reveals the truth of the phrase “hurt people hurt people,” and to see the “real-time” thoughts of someone in the throes of addition gives my judgment a shake and brings about a lot more empathy for people in this kind of pain. I always assumed that all rock stars were kind of the same: that it was all an act; that when the show was over or the video wrapped, they wiped off the make up and went home to a “normal” life. This book shatters that assumption completely! The filth, the grit, the sex and the drugs...all there. The author is a creative, intelligent and artistic person who has walked on both sides of the light and dark places and has written a valuable book about addiction. A person gets everything they ever thought they wanted...but still can’t fill up that empty space, so they keep trying to fill it with excess. It’s crazy. Hats off to the author for being sober as a judge without losing any of his cool and for sharing the fact that his heart and perspective have grown.

I read this with trepidation. I always do with autobiographies. I'm afraid to learn the truth of people I admired, and even worshipped. Nikki Sixx was one of those people. But, as I read The Heroin Diaries, I didn't see the image of a hero shattered. And that was quite a relief, to be honest! I did cringe and laugh and was disgusted and shocked and saddened - everything a person should be when reading this tale of over-the-top debauchery and life-threatening addiction. But, I came out the other side feeling grateful Nikki shared his story, feeling like I really know the person rather than the rock star persona. I was so scared for Nikki as I read, even knowing where he's at today, but in the end, I felt happy for him. There is such a difference in tone and just the overall weight of this story once he kicked his addiction. You really do go through the darkness and into the light. And, I hope this doesn't sound condescending, but I am proud of him. What an amazing, positive human he's become. Thanx again, Nikki, for sharing. <3

Honest to God, this is one of the best books I have read throughout my entire life. I am so lucky to have read a book that shows what it's like to live like you're gonna die tomorrow. Thank you, Nikki, for the book. I truly enjoyed it.

An Amazing Book!!! Nikki Sixx bares his soul in this Diary. Nikki exposes the devastating toll that his drug and alcohol addictions take on his life and those around him. This book is filled with very graphic depictions of the life of a Rock Star who has it all and hits rock-bottom with his Heroin addiction and severe depression. There are many reviewers who have criticized how sincere Nikki Sixx is in releasing this book and I have to wonder why they are being so hard on Nikki. Releasing this book is a very courageous move on the part of this very famous and talented man. Nikki Sixx could very well have kept all these horror stories to himself but instead he hopes that his story can hopefully help others. In his Introduction he makes it clear why he has written this book. "So why have I decided to publish these insane diaries and show the world just what a f*****-up, strung-out madman I was at the height of my success? Well, it's simple. If one person reads this book and doesn't have to go down the same road as me, it was worth sharing my personal hell with them. I'm also donating profits from this book to help runaway kids at a charity I set up called Running Wild in the Night through Covenant House.... They say to keep what you have, you have to give it away. I believe that.... If life is what you make it, I've made mine great. It took a lot of hard work and if you need to, you can do it too." Nikki Sixx demonstrates his sincere desire to stay in recovery from his addictions; one of the surest ways to help stay on track is to reach out to others and try to help them avoid the route he took. By writing this book to help others Nikki is able to help himself stay strong and stay drug-free. As a celebrity he is able to reach out to so many people and he is using his position and influence in a positive way. It is wonderful that the profits from this book are donated to his charity Running Wild in the Night with Covenant House to help runaway kids! This book is filled with hope and inspiration and can be useful to anyone who is going through a hard time and thinks things will never get better. I highly recommend this book and the Soundtrack of the Heroin Diaries to any Motley Crue fan! Thumbs up to Nikki Sixx for being brave enough to expose his weakness in the hopes of helping others. May Nikki Sixx continue to remain sober, drug-free and free from the burdon of depression.

I gave Nikki Sixx's book 5 stars because it is definitely compelling. The writing is honest and scary. The set up is brave in that he got accounts from those directly in his warpath. Very brave in deed, and a lesson that life is not a vacuum. People touch other people. The accounts of him in Hong Kong just before he died (for the second time) were spooky, and then the accounts of him dying were downright scary! This is definitely a book for those wanting to find some lessons like - don't do drugs. I think about all the Motley records and to be honest they really weren't that great musically, but they did have passion, emotion, and a lot of attitude, which made them pretty good. I think if Nikki Sixx had been sober he would have written the same stuff, maybe better. We'll never know I guess. I just think he would have been to channel his angst better. I do hope people don't get the wrong idea from this book - if he survived why can't I. The question is are you willing to role the dice? According the accounts in this book he owes a lot to chance. That is no way to live life. The book really gets to the heart of why he acted the way he acted, which is the most compelling part. You could see how his life was scripted to be the way it was. I truly feel for him. But, I had two friends just pass away from cancer. They didn't hurt anybody, and were gems. After reading a book like this it just makes me wonder why God, or whatever runs the show, makes these decisions. For good or for bad, Nikki Sixx had it all and if he had just stopped to really explore his life he would have sidestepped all the destruction. He could have started giving back much sooner. He credits his addictions to his now renewed sense of giving. Fortunately he is really making amends and doing some good things, and him being a good father figure is another great lesson. Redemption is for everyone; you don't have to repeat the mistakes of the past; things can change. I hope people read this book and look at life in positive ways. We all may not have the money Nikki Sixx has, but being born gives such a chance, we just need to nurture that chance. He had some good role models, and some bad. Glad he is drawing from the good ones now. Truly a book that teaches many lessons. Peace

Nikki Sixx's story is nothing but fascinating. The style this book was written and the words inside of it felt like I was reading tales from my own journal. No, I never lived as a rock star, nor did I have fame or the things his age and money left him do -- but there's something to be said for the erratic, lucid scribblings of a mad man. I've journaled since I can recall, and these single lines, occasional paragraphs and reasons behind his writings are just as I tend to do myself. There's also something to be said for the unconventional portrayal of one's biography. I no longer possess the attention span to fully follow chapters, paragraphs, and endless stories of someone's entire life. The way this is broken up and frequently changing pace kept my attention and made me appreciate the day to day happenings instead of the standard, "I was born here, went to school here, lost my way, it was crazy, and let my glamourize my downfall" style of most who feel possessed to "write a book" as had now become so common amongst, ooooh, just about everyone. The other thing I really respected in reading this were the tales and accounts of other people in his life. I feel no biography is truly complete until you know how others close to you perceived your life, interactions, and relationships with them. It's one thing to have your own experience, but I feel when something's written merely one-sided from the author's view behind their own skull, you get a lopsided portrayal. It's easy for many to skip accountability and responsibility and inadvertently try to justify all their missteps by simply telling readers why they did what they did or what was going through their mind at the time. It takes a lot of humility and bravery to let others dish about you and let others read the negative things many had to say and share. This book is relatable to many addicts, but also -- I would imagine -- gives a really detailed account of the beast of addiction so many get lost in to those who've never experienced it themselves. I felt it was chronicled so well that someone who's never touched a drug could really see just how things get out of hand so quickly. It wasn't just the fame, the talent, the music that led Nikki to where he ended up .. this story could be anyone's story. And, I feel he made that clear with the very quote even left on the back cover. I am very impressed with this and would recommend it to mostly anyone.

This book was flat out AMAZING. If you've ever want a true glimpse into a rockstars life, this is the book to read. If you want a true gritty look to what it's like to be a hard core addict, this is the book to read. If you just like to read, this is the book to read. I remember watching an MTV or VH1 show about drugs and bands and seeing Nikki talk about the fateful night when he died only to come home and immediately shoot up again, waking up with the needle still in his arm. So to read this book and see the road that brought him to that moment and hear it in more detail was really intriguing. Not one point of this book disappointed me. The book itself is a work of art. The design of it paints the picture of a dark time and complements the storyline. It's obvious some serious heart and soul went into every part of this book. Even the paper is quality stuff. What's really amazing about this book is how completely honest everyone is. I really admire not just Nikki for being so open, but everyone involved. I love how the entries from Nikki have additions of others who were there alongside him at that moment. Not just Tommy, Mick and Vince but other artists like Slash or his mgmt team/family. The Vanity ones are way out there...although I like the one where Niiki adds a "huh?" afterwards. Nice! But everyone is so brutally honest about what was happening then, not just to Nikki but their own involvement and doings. And Nikki really let his emotions and true feelings be seen for what they are. Even when he was a junkie at his worst, I found myself really admiring him for not lying to himself. He is not a man of excuses. I started high school to Shout at the Devil and Crue was my first "metal love" musically. Their Decade to Decadence greatest hits CD is one of my all time fave metal CDs. This book is set Dec 86 to Dec 87 which was my senior year. It was really cool to think back as to what I remember going on in my life and thinking "wow...this is when this was going on". I saw them in 2005 and I'm really glad I did. Just like I'm really glad I found this book.

I just finished this book and it is a haunting read. I knew going in it would be interesting to read about a year in the life of an addicted rock star, and it definitely came through in that way. I would put this book in the "you can't put it down" category. I had some bad dreams while reading this book as well. As an aspiring rock songwriter and musician, I could identify with that side of Nikki Sixx, and I've met my share of rockers like him. A difficult childhood helped him down the path to becoming a true monster out to destroy everything in his path. Money, instead of being the answer to his problems only fueled his fire. His story shows how important it is to love children and to only bring them into the world if you are ready to love them. But the obstacles he had to overcome in childhood made him a more insightful songwriter. Because of this, I did occasionally find myself feeling sympathetic for the spoiled little brat writing these diaries, and gained a new respect for the music he wrote, music of which I've never considered myself a fan. Incredibly, despite all the horrible things that happened to Nikki, and then the torment he leashed out on others, he has been able to thrive in Motley Crue and other bands. It's really amazing to me that he never caught (by the police) for what he's done and that people continuously turned a blind eye to his antics because he was laying the golden eggs. He says in interviews that he hasn't done heroin in 20 years, but also reveals in the book that he continued to slip when it came to cocaine and other drugs, so it's hard to hold him up as a hero, but saying that, I still really respect him as a human who continues to fight his demons. I really enjoyed the art direction of the book. It brought you into the nightmare world of Sixx's diaries. I have also ventured far enough to listen to his new music with Sixx AM, and their single is much better than I expected it to be. His new single seems more influenced by his favorite bands like Queen and current artists like Muse. My favorite parts of the book were the later commentary by the other people around him. I would have liked to have had even more of that, and will probably read The Dirt next to get more context.

This is an OK, maybe a decent, book. If you are a Motley Crew fan or are shopping for a Motley Crew fan, buy this book. If you are just looking for a rock star book for yourself or as a gift, this wouldn't be my number one book.

I just finished reading The Heroin Diaries by Nikki Sixx. The Heroin Diaries is a journal he kept in 1987 as he descended into the hellish abyss of addiction as he and his band, Motley Crue, toured the country. I saw them in Biloxi, MS of that year. It was interesting to see what was going on in his head the very day that I saw them perform. It was also the day that they made the cover of Rolling Stone only to be disrespected with this headline: "Heavy Metal: It's Loud, It's Ugly, It Won't Go Away." Yeah, I admit it: in the eighties I was a teenage headbanger with a mullet haircut and wore black, heavy metal concert T-shirts and blue jeans. Every square inch of my bedroom walls was covered with pictures of Nikki Sixx and his cohorts. The fact that he was one of my biggest idols (I even had a dog named Nikki) was a heroin junkie should have foretold my own descent into junkie-dom. But I must admit that Nikki's decadence was a lot more glamorous than my own. It sounds as if he flushed more drugs down the toilet out of paranoia that year than I ingested in all of my twenty year using career. And it just goes to show that drug addiction affects the poor differently than the rich. When the withdrawals started, all he had to do was pick up the phone. He never woke up wondering where he was going to get enough money to help him make it through the day without getting sick. This journal-type memoir is better than the typical addiction memoir, because no matter how committed to honesty the memoirist may be, memories distort and degrade through the years. But with the Heroin Diaries, you see addiction in real-time, day-by-day as it's happening. And you can see that Sixx was clearly happier on the days when he managed to clean up. When he was strung out, he wrote the words I've uttered to myself so many times during my addiction: "People don't make sense to me...I have no comfort zone. I don't know how to live. I feel like an alien." Written by David Allan Reeves Author of "Running Away From Me"

Excellent freaking insight into one of the world's greatest songwriters/musician. Must read if you are a fan or not. Reading what he put himself through and knowing what he has done with himself now is truly inspirational. Damn great book!!!

Not much I can say on this book. Bought it as a gift for a friend. They were happy they received so for that I give it 5 stars

I purchased the Kindle eBook edition since I'm sitting in front of my Mac most the time, I figured instead of grabbing a book and reading it, I could just sit here and read it. I read the book in a couple of days and it's a grisly story of his addictive behavior. By reading it it's hard to believe and a miracle he, or for that matter any of his bandmates in Motley Crue, are still alive. Amazing story, and so is "The Dirt", also written by Nikki Sixx. It's great that finally Nikki sought help after his last overdose a few days before Christmas in 1987, but there's one thing I don't know if he has ever worked through. It seems to me from reading this book, and also coming from a position to where I had to deal with my addictions as well through a 12 step program, he does a lot of finger pointing and almost never that I can recall by reading the book did he hold himself accountable for anything he did to harm anyone. Correct me if I am wrong and please bring it to my attention, but it seems Nikki is always blaming what he did and has done on how he was brought up, how his Mother purportedly abandoned him as a young boy, etc. Is he stating that he was white as snow and excluding the drug and alcohol abuse he put himself through and his troubled childhood that he didn't contribute to his own behavior problems and that everything was "their fault"? I never once read how he takes responsibility for any of his problems and that it was always someone else's (his Mother purportedly abandoning him). What about all the people he harmed through the years because of his behavior? I didn't read anything about that. Nikki surely knows by now he needs to accept responsibility for his behavior regardless of what may or may not have happened in his past. Anyways, Nikki if you're reading this please know I'm not breaking your balls. I love ya as well as many many others, and thank you for writing this book for I am certain it has helped many many others...

I have been a huge fan of Motley Crue and especially Nikki Sixx since I was 13 years old. This memoir of his gave me incredible insight into what makes him tick and what made him almost die from being a heroin addict. His story is frightening but fascinating. The comments made by his bandmates, family, friends and other aquaintances make the story much more interesting than if it had just been his diaries. I like that with each passage printed, he and these other people comment on them so as to provide more insight into what was going on in his tormented life. However, I cannot help but wonder if some of the entries are a little embellished if not completely fabricated for entertainment purposes since at the beginning of the book he even states that several sections of his journals were completely illegible. Also there seems to be no time frame as to when other people were interviewed. Quotes are used by various people who know Nikki Sixx but we are not really told when these comments were actually made. I guess it doesn't really make that much difference but I would have liked to have known specifically when these interviews took place. The book itself is beautifully done- the pages are thick and shiny with a lovely hard cover. It is too bad that this book only covers a year in his troubled life, though he does at times talk about events occurring before and since. It is primarily set in the year 1987 when his heroin addiction had reached its worst- even killing him. He seems to provide deep insight into his situation and emerges much wiser after living through it. One statement I found to be quite profound was when he said dying would be easy for him, it was the living that would be tough. This is an interesting read whether you are a Crue fan or not and whether you can relate to drug addiction or not. It could surely be used as an anti-drug lesson.

After reading the book (in one day, I couldnt put it down!) I was amazed at Nikkis story. His writing was interesting and having commentary after every entry was eyeopening. I listened to the album that went with this and it made it even more real. It got a little repetitive to read which I actually enjoyed. I cant imagine how repetitive it must have felt for him. I wish there was one of these for everyone in the band. It would be so interesting to view it all through each perspective.

I empathize with cutters. The feeling of breaking one's own skin to acquire the cathartic release accompanying the sanguine surge makes sense. There's a calm that follows the pain; as if the very puncture allowed all the internal demons to seep away. Reading Nikki Sixx's The Heroin Diaries: A Year in the Life of a Shattered Rock Star is like watching a seasoned cutter. The reader has a front-row seat to the Mötley Cr'e bassist's continual bloodletting. Taken from his own diary entries in 1987 while the band was on tour in support of their Girls Girls Girls album, these pages give real insight into the life of a multi-platinum artist hell-bent on both domination and destruction. It's hard to believe that after the huge success of the band's biography The Dirt that there really could be any fertile ground left to toil. However, The Heroin Diaries is only partially about Mötley Cr'e. It is additionally a tale of a lost boy fighting the dueling demons of drugs and depression, both of whom have their hooks deep set into his flesh. The book also shows the music business in the `80s, up-and-coming acts like Guns n' Roses (and the brotherly bond between the writer and Slash is wonderful), as well as the expected hijinx of the Mötley Cr'e's infamous excesses. Perhaps best still, Sixx's Heroin Diaries showed me how far down depression can take the creative force, as well as made me appreciate the bassist's undervalued strength and determination. I was especially enlightened by Sixx's diverse interest in music and books (Burroughs seemed expected; Orwell not as much). This is a book beyond the story of the band; an impressive portrait of the artist, even as his most debased. It is peering into the open wound and having the purgation wash over us at the close of the cover. It might not be for the faint of heart, but Heroin Diaries is the most soul cleansing read I've had in a long time.

My review is not based on the content of the book but rather the condition. The pages of the book started to pull away from the spine at "Introduction II". I attempted to use PVA binding adhesive to fix, but sadly December 25, 1986- December 29,1986 completely came loose from the book. Other than this, excellent read!

It helped me why my son has done drugs since he graduated and to understand the violence and anger underneath.

I loved this book. Nikki lays it all out. The bad, the ugly and sometimes good. He’s an amazing author and person💕

I read all Nikki Sixx books and they all are amazing. This is so personal though and my favorite. It lays out how he felt during this crazy time and let’s you see his crazy thoughts. Excellent work!

I have to tell you, I got half way through this kindle book, and was like what a waste of ten bucks. Nikki is as much as a cliched rock personality, with a feel sorry for me," I got what I wanted and it was not all it was cracked up to be in my fantasies", that there is/was. I mean the drugs and groupies he basically used for degradation purposes on anger issues to fill a void for a crappy excuse of a parent or parents not being there for him, and when they were, only seem to lie to him, even though Nikki had something most people do or did not, grand-parents or someone willing to step up for him in their place. This book almost seemed like Nikki was writing it to seek atonement or repentance for not so much his addiction, but his behavior at the time of his addiction, except for some of the pictures in the book, one in particular that almost discredits my theory. Even though I got the book for a lower price, it was still money I was not going to waste, so I read on. I am glad I did. When Nikki finally seem to figure out and acknowledge the why for his need for his addiction, which he knew all along, he seemed, or seems to have gotten the help to heal himself to a degree, especially psychologically, and by the end of the book it made him a better man. Coming to terms with the old adage, The root of all evil, and healing or eliminating the cause. Congratulations to you Nikki/Frank. Here is hoping you can stay clean.

This is such a raw and honest book I could not put it down. Be prepared to have a lot of emotions. As a codependent, it was nice to experience the other side of things thru his eyes. In my Top 10 for sure.

Hard to.believe he lived to tell his story!!!...its a hard but hinest read into his Life at that point......

This book is durable and catches the eye with its design. It is an honest story about some dark parts of the rock and roll lifestyle. It is eye opening, shocking, heartbreaking, and redeeming as you make your way through the ups and downs of drug addiction. Worth the read!

I started this book when it first came out but didn’t get far because I thought it would be something I couldn’t relate to, not being an addict. I don’t know what made me download the book to my Kindle, maybe it was because of the recent release of The Dirt. I read this whole book in less than 24 hours. I could not put it down! This book makes you laugh and cry. A slap of reality to those who have zero sympathy. For all the yuppies who don’t think it could ever happen to them. I’ve been in that black, dark, empty place called depression. I could have easily turned to drugs or alcohol to take me away. Had I not been a single mom, I might have. My heart just broke reading those diary entries because on some level I could relate. I loved Nikki way back in those days....but who didn’t love those guys in Motley Crue? Now, I admire him on a whole new level. Bringing awareness to addiction and depression. Showing people they can escape as he did. Kudos for a wonderful book! Everyone should read it! Everyone can take something from this book. But be prepared to cry.

I've been a Mötley fan since the tender age of twelve when Theatre of Pain was climbing the charts and Nikki was killing himself. Buried in my Conservative Republican Catholic family I couldn't reveal it. I had to listen to friends' tapes on walkmans they were willing to loan me and write the lyrics on loose-leaf notebook paper because every notebook I had was accounted for. I folded them into those little envelope style notes we used to pass in class and zipped them into my pillow case. I would take them out and read them, hearing the music in my head. Thirty-two years later and Nikki Sixx never left my head, though there was a period of time when I thought I had to silence him to survive. That's when I was trying to fit a mold. That's when I became alternately depressed and anxious. I've never been an addict to any physical substance. But I'm still trying to free myself from the addiction of being approved of by people who have only loved an image of that they created and superimposed upon me. Thank you Nikki, for loving the real when it's ugly; and for teaching us that it's not.

Good read. Sometimes it gets hard to follow but make sure you read the beginning of the book and you get a better idea of who everyone is.

I enjoyed learning about one of my all-time favorite rock bands. They seemed like everyday normal guys who wanted to live their dream and it was magic when they came together. I had no idea that Nikki wrote the majority of the music. I had no idea they tormented Mick the way they did. Mick seems to be such a soft-spoken and highly intellectual guy with a raw in-your-face-kick-ass spirit. Who wouldn't like him?? I felt bad when big business came in as they always do. Suits ruin everything. I pictured Tommy as this playful golden retriever always falling in love with the next puppy that comes along. Nikki...you had a crumby childhood. SO many of us did but you rose above that with fame and talent even though it continues to torture you. You were and are still the best looking in the band and I spent many a night thinking of you in my teenage/early 20 years. I am so sorry that you and the other guys had to go through all of the chemical b.s. I hope you are all able to remain in recovery. The only drawback of the book for me was there was not enough about the recovery. It was like, I went and that was it. How hard was it? What about those of out here who have young daughers who are hooked on heroin that can't afford the Palm Springs or Beverly Hills Rehab Clinics. My beautiful daughter is 21 and IS a heroin addict and I feel like my hands are tied. Do you ever reach out to others one-on-one? If so, I'll take that offer! Stay strong guys, and do what makes you happy! Love, Carol

First, let me say that my son was/is an addict & just over a year clean & sober. After he asked for help & we got him into the in-house rehab, based upon AA/NA principles, he came home on a day pass & we took him to eat @ the restaurant of his choice & then to to see the movie of his choice. Afterward, I asked him what helped him make the decision to become clean...first, he said us, then, he said he'd read the Heroine Diaries by Nikki Sixx, which he first checked out @ the local library...& then asked me to get as an ebook. It moved him.. I was working on my master's degree @ the time & didn't get a chance to read it until after I'd earned my degree (a/k/a yesterday). I finished it today. Nikki, your book was brutally honest & touched my kid to his soul. Now, I understand why. I'm thankful you wrote it. Thanks for helping me save the most important human being in my life...he's only 25 years old. He's going places now & has. remained strong. We just went to our first concert together on 10/10/15 in Evansville, IN....we both saw Motley Crue for the very first time (I've been trying to see your band since I was 16.. Crue has always been my favorite band...& Drew grew up listening to it his entire life. So...thank you for helping us through many tough times & helping him turn his life around & to you...congrats on your rehabilitation -Kim

Casual fans of Motley Crue probably know Nikki only as the mediocre bass player of the durable 80's glam-punk metal band that's more famous for their hijinks outside the studio than in it. But this would be a mistake, because as any fan who reads their liner notes carefully knows, Nikki is actually the band's chief songwriter and visionary. In "The Heroin Diaries", we learn the extent to which the entire Motley organization hangs on his shoulders, something which prevents the band members and support personnel around him from holding him accountable for his controlling and self-destructive behavior. And the source of this behavior? Nikki attributes it all to his fragmented childhood, (which, while problematic, let's admit it - you've read worse) exaggerated by a supreme amount of chemical foolishness. How interesting you find this has a lot to do with whether or not you've already read Motley's "The Dirt", Richard Cole's "Zeppelin Uncensored", or, best of all, Dave Navarro's "Don't Try This At Home". In fact, by the time you get through your third or so heroin-addled rock biopic, you start nodding off over how similar they are. Read one, read them all - and note that they tell almost the same story of addiction, violence and professional immaturity that rapidly becomes very wearying. You can almost reduce these to a few paragraphs apiece based on what they -don't- have in common, and besides - since the author is still alive, you already know how things are going turn out. The best parts of "Diaries" are the little bits of behind-the-scenes business information where Nikki occasionally stops to lift the curtain of how the concert and recording industry really works; unfortunately, there's not enough of this information to make the book worth buying just for this. Although Nikki has appeared on TV promoting the book as "a cautionary tale", one can only wonder at the book's presentation - obscured on nearly every single page with garish, sloppy Ralph Steadman-style art and aggro red-font on black color schemes designed to make Nikki's wasted year look as oh-so-rock cool as possible. One of the few high (and unintentionally comedic) points I took from this book was how professional Whitesnake (and heck, by comparison even Guns & Roses!) was and how Nikki couldn't stand the former because... they Practiced, Showed Up On Time, Put On A Good Show, and/or Were Professional! As a glam rat, Nikki had no time for such things and almost certainly felt that leaving an elegantly wasted corpse would be good enough to reign over his peers.

This gotta be the best book ever written by rock star, no doubt. What I really loved is that it gives an insight, not just about Nikki's state of mind at that time, but also about how living in a rock band is. As a kid growing up in the 80's I got to admire glam and hard metal icons, thinking about that kind of life as the best journey. However, after reading this book, I can see that what I thought was the coolest way of life was in fact an illusion. Nikki describes how life on tour was, how the band's members didn't actually like each other as you might think they would (except for Nikki and Tommy). Also, I like Nikki's perspective on other of those 80's bands like Whitesnake and GNR. Great book.

I loved this book . so glad he was able to over come his addiction and that hes still here with us. Especially his children

I had a crappy attitude towards addiction. I grew up around it, had an addiction myself, and went on to be a social worker where I continued to deal with addiction. I think I became burned out and just did not want to deal with addiction and all the hell it brings. I am going to be working in law enforcement and I knew I would be interacting with addicts again. I knew I needed an attitude adjustment regarding my views on addiction. But I didn't want to read some clinical book. I wanted a raw, genuine, hardcore experience. No BS, no sugarcoating. I wanted to get inside the addict`s mind so I could understand and feel what they were feeling. This book did just that. Amazing, raw, sad, and REAL. Nikki Sixx is absolutely brilliant. He opens his brain and heart to the reader and makes no excuses for his addiction. It takes an incredibly strong and unselfish person to share their addiction and struggles with the world. This is a MUST read. Nikki helped me adjust my attitude towards addiction and helped me rediscover my passion for helping others.

How can such a talented man who reached such success in his life have lived with such a tortured soul? I think he’s still trying to find himself and deals with his addiction constantly. I also see that he’s a great father and loves his kids in a way his dad never loved him. I also see a very talented musician and artist. The way he sees the world is like only a genius can see it. Is Nikki happy? I don’t know and I can only hope he’s found some happiness because everyone deserves that. I think this book gives the reader a good insight into his world but not so man the man. I recommend this book.

Growing up I always like Motley Crue but I was never what you would consider a die hard fan. This book blew me away. Nikki Sixx really shows that drug abuse and especially Heroin can destroy lives. Great read...I couldnt put it down.

I liked this book . very interesting story of Nikki Sixx. good read

A raw, unflinching joyride of a read and a glimpse at what its like to be a heroin addict with unlimited funds... As a recovering addict I can relate to a lot of it. I've loved Motley Crue since the 80's when I was a kid and I have a lot of respect for Nikki Sixx sharing his story. Definitely recommended

I enjoyed the book very much. I found out things about Nikki that I didn’t know. His story sounds like a nightmare when it comes to the drugs that he did and I am surprised that his lifestyle didn’t kill him. I am so glad that he was able to get clean and have a new life as far as getting married and having children. Motley Crue is one of my favorite bands and I have been listening to them for about 30 some years. Anyone who is a Motley Fan, I would definitely recommend this book. It is a very book. Nikki Sixx ROCKS

I've been a Motley Crue fan as far back as I can even remember. I've seen them many times LIVE over the years (as far back as 20+ years ago, and as recently as 2 weeks ago) and I've always been a huge, huge fan. On that basis, I bought the book. I've always thought Nikki was a creative genius, and, after seeing several interviews with him on how bad he got, decided to see for myself just how bad it was. It's bad. Mr. Rockstar Hides His Naked Junked Self Out in Closets with Guns Bad. The book itself is an extremely easy read. He's got insights from himself in the present day, as well as all the cast of characters that were around for the Motley ride during the making of, and touring for, Girls Girls Girls. The only downer I found was that in the first part of the book, we know this is the year he dated Vanity. I didn't mind, in fact I was very interested in, both of their commentary regarding the drug abuse/emotions/etc... the roller coaster that was their relationship. However, I think that present-day Nikki let the Evangelist Denise Matthews (nee Vanity) wax on a little too much about God/Salvation. There was one paragraph that summed it up - she was going on and on and on, and Nikki's present day commentary underneath was, "Huh?" Yeah, exactly. I won't give away any more than that - it's a harrowing account, and wonderfully told by Nikki. You won't be disappointed.

I am really getting into this book. I wish my ex husband would have read this. I believed it would have helped him and would have opened his eyes to his own substance issues.

The story starts off a little repetitive and boring at first but that's really just what was going on in Nikkis life early on and that's sort of the point. The evolution of Nikki's character was awesome to see and I loved hearing about the things he went through first hand as a founder of one of my favorite bands of all time. Definitely worth a read.

If our purpose in being here is to learn lessons and grow from them, then Nikki learned several, as documented in this book. With all the griping we do about negativity in the media, here is a very positive and uplifting story. Here we have a celebrity who is presenting the garbage he experienced (even if much of it was self-inflicted) at a time when he was "the king of the world", yet made up his mind to live. He learned. He grew. Even many of the people around him learned and grew as well. We should have been reading Nikki's epitaph sometime in the late '80s/early 90s, but he survived and is thriving. His story is important because he went through things that are not unique in our culture. And he learned from them and made up his mind to live. I grew up in the '80s and was (and still am) a huge Motley Crue fan. I am now an even bigger fan of the band, for their sheer perseverance. I am an even greater admirer of Nikki Sixx, for his strength and ability to realize his mistakes, own them, grow and learn. Most of us can't seem to do that, even with petty things, on a day-to-day basis. I highly recommend this book. Regarding the Kindle version - there are many typos and similar mistakes. Apparently the folks at MTV Publishing need to learn how to read.

Alternative name for this one would be "My top 10 excuses to do drugs." Of course, all the crazy stories make it seem fun, all the dark corners make it seem wise. But the life itself, well, it's neither of two things. What I liked the most is that the story is missing the lesson. There's always some kind of pseudo-wise moral subtext in these books - "Don't do drugs, they'll ruin your life", "get yourself together and learn to live with yourself". This one is way different. It's more like "what if you replaced one kind of drug with another?" This wouldn't be a rock memoir without self-destruction, feeling of omnipotence, and I-do-what-I-want attitude. And this wouldn't be as fun if there was remorse about any of that (that would be a moral lesson again). Oh, and one more thing - it's sweet how in the end there is zero understanding of the reasons for the downward spiral we're reading about. It's not really about forgiving others, it's about admitting that it's your fault. Well, maybe he got there eventually, but probably not). Now do I sound all wise or what?) It's a great journey anyway, and you should all read it ;).

This is such an honest, heartbreaking and raw account of someone who experienced the hellish depths of addiction and lived to tell the tale. Anyone with an ounce of empathy will find many parts difficult to read because of the utter despair and hopelessness jumping out of the pages. It amazes me that the poor soul depicted in these stories is still on the planet. But I for one am overjoyed that he is. And he is making a difference by letting people know that there is hope, it can get better, and you can use the tragedy to help others. I originally purchased the audiobook (which is ready by Nikki himself) and have listened to it multiple times. But there is something special about holding the book in your hands, not to mention seeing the artwork and photographs scattered throughout.

Really great book when I was a kid motley Crue was my favorite band I was so in love with Tommy Lee. I am amazed at the life that Nikki Sixx lead along with everyone else in the band. And I can’t believe the Niikki Sixx still alive after everything he went through. But I’m so happy he is this book really does have a happy ending. Highly recommend the read.

I was captivated by The Heroin Diaries: A Year in the Life of a Shattered Rock Star by Motley Crue's Nikki Sixx. I didn't think I'd like it. I didn't want to read a dissertation about what happens when you do heroin, and then hypocritically get preached to by the guilty party about "staying off drugs." But that's not what The Heroin Diaries is at all. The Heroin Diaries is indeed a diary...Nikki Sixx's real diary with very brief, dated entries from late December 1986 through Christmas Day 1987. But you get much more than the just the diary entries. In between almost every entry is a little snippet from select people that were involved in Nikki's life back in 1987. However, the snippets are all written recently for the sole purposes of the book, and snippet writers include Slash, Vanity, Nikki's friends, family, band management, and of course Mick, Vince, Tommy and a lot of Nikki himself. The fun part of the book are the side stories of the absolute mayhem and debauchery that took place during the final recording days of

Kudos to Nikki Sixx and those close to him who were not afraid to be brutally honest about the struggles and madness of addiction as it relates to both the addict, and the people that surround them as well. Nikki bares his soul in this memoir of what it was like to live a year imprisoned in substance abuse and depression. The story is told as a year of actual diary entries that Nikki kept during the Girls, Girls, Girls period of Motley Crue. Nikki's story includes tales of debauchery that includes the members of Motley Crue, Guns n' Roses, Ratt, Vanity, and various others. In between the diary entries, there is commentary from Nikki and the people in his life that explain a little more about the diary entry and what was going on at the time. I admire Nikki for putting it all out there in the hopes of helping others who may find themselves in the arms of addiction. This book may also help those who have loved ones lost in addiction to have a look into the mind of an addict to get a better understanding of how addiction controls not only the mind, but the body as well.

I'd been meaning to read this book for quite a while. I've been a Motley fan for years (about 30 of them) and had heard this was a good read. Well, that's quite the understatement. I liken this to being on a speeding train that is heading right toward a solid brick wall and not being able to do anything to stop it or to save yourself. You get immediately engaged and wrapped up in his story. You don't know which end is up. You're right there with him the whole time. There are times when he writes in his journal that he's clean and then you start to understand that he was lying even to himself. Addiction is like that I guess. He pulls on your heartstrings as he discusses in his stupor his relationships with his family and bandmates. He makes you laugh as he describes the foibles of others. And, in the end, he breaks your heart as he flatlines (even though you knew he did and somehow survived). Maybe Nikki Sixx is too evil to die. Or maybe, just maybe, he's too important to die. He will someday, as we all will. But, he still has important things to do. His story will impact others and his efforts today will and does save lives.

I’m a social worker and have studied substance abuse several times in school. But nothing gave me a true look into the many layers of addiction like this book did. Addiction is a disease and it can attack any person, no matter how successful they are, and hurt all the people that love them. Thank you Nikki Sixx for putting this gem out into the world, I can see how it has helped so many people. Also I love that I got the 10 year anniversary edition. The epilogue at the end gives the reader a nice update on life since the book. A+!

A well put togehter book of a person who was falling apart but part of the one of the biggest rock bands in history. This timeline was one of the most interesting accounts of Nikki Sixx and the band Motley Crue that I have read. This is a roller coaster ride from begining to the end, there are not stops on this ride and please keep your hands and feet inside the car. I kept reading and looked forward to reading this book just to see what happened next. Also, I had attended some of the show dates that were mentioned in the book so I had a personal connection to some of the diary entries. It was very interesting reading those diary entries in particular. This book leaves you to wonder what else is in those diary enteries or what other diaries are still out there. I would recommend this to anyone who is a fan of any music artist. This book with suck you in, pull you thru the depths of Nikki's hell and back again. You will have a different perspective of Nikki Sixx after reading this book. This is the true life of sex, drugs and rock and roll, along with all the drama that comes along with it. From the ex-wives, family, record execs and fans. Nikki, thank you for sharing, I have a whole new respect for you and your music.

Couldn't put it down read it in 9 hours while we drove to vacation

Motley Crue was my favorite band back in the Shout at the devil days so I'd say that qualifies me as a fan. I have this thing about celebrities. I admire many times what they do but really find them annoying. They don't have to pay for anything, they get special treatement when they go places and get waited on hand and foot and then they b-tch and complain about having their photo taken. Nikki fulfills the celebrity image in this book. There is even one point where their manager(I think), makes my point. Motley Crue are complaining about their long tour and the guy mentions that they were four men in their early twenties complaining about playing five two hour shows five nights a week. They complained that they were being overworked. He compared that to a man who gets up and lays bricks 10 hours a day all week. That's exactly why I don't like celebs. Nikki talks about a drug dealer resenting Nikki because he saw him as a spoiled brat. The guy mentioned a Harley that he really liked and then Nikki went and bought the exact bike and rode it over to the guys house which made the guy very jealous. When I was reading that I was thinking "What a as-h-le." (Nikki that is). Nikki's story supports why I dislike celebs but it also tells a great story of the drug induced madman. If he would have died of a drug overdose at the end, this book would have made a good movie.

I've liked Motley Crue since they showed up on the Strip in LA. I'm not much for reading interviews or magazines about bands or celebrities so I rarely "know" anything about the people involved. So much misinformation. I read this book because I was interested in finding out what was in his Heroin Diaries. Nikki SIxx is multi-talented; but I was surprised by his clarity and candor regarding his experiences. What he writes is not pretty, but it is real. One of the reasons opium and its derivatives have remained in use for thousands of years their ability to "cushion" not only feelings, but environmental input (ie: sound, sensation, people). This would all be lovely, except that most (90% according to UCLA studies) who follow this path do not get off until it kills them, usually in as little as 5 years. I am the sole survivor of my friends, by more than 40 years, and as such I have utmost respect for all of us who manage to find another life. Kudos Nikki, thank you for telling a truth that most avoid!!

Nikki Sixx is an amazing writer. His story has been an important one to read about. His creativity has made him the man he is today.

In the 80s I remember my dad telling me that he refused to have music in his house that was basically yelling..printed demon signs on the album covers and one of the band mates displayed he worshipped the devil. I have always loved Motley Crue even if I had to listen to them in secret in my closet at night while I was suppose to be sleeping. My family on the outside portrayed a nice christian family with the nice white picket fence and 2 animals..but on the inside my father was degrating and selfish..my mom was silent and was being cheated on..my sister was the goody two shoes cheerleader with a 4.0 gpa..I was the outcast that dressed however I could to fit in..was nice to everyone even though I was followed home and beat on..& told I was nothing and a freak.then I found motley crue..with lots others to headline my rage. I am so sorry Nikki and others went through. What they did for me ..I have to thank them for because out of their destruction..drugs..and career they helped me get out of my mind for a while or I probably wouldn't be writing this review today. 💗🎶

It was the summer of 1982 or possibly 1983. The kid I knew next door to my parents vacation spot was very into Motley. I was 13 or so. He played me Merry Go Round and I was hooked. I watched them rise to an incredible apex, had their posters on my walls. I looked up to this band. I first had the opportunity to see them live on 10/17/87, Day On the Green in Oakland. At that moment, I knew what entertainment was all about. When I read this book, and later met Nikki in person, I realized what we all see with rock bands is such a smoke screen. He peeled back the onion to show us what really was going on back then. Of course he made a ton of mistakes, just like the rest of us. But he had the ability to write it down as it happened. This is a rare look into an explosively popular band, with a destructive band member. This book should be standard reading in schools. It would let kids know that drugs are not the popular cool thing to do, but something that can even destroy someone with the drive of Nikki. Nikki - I am glad to hear that you could move beyond your upbringing and find peace. Thank you for your years of great music, and mostly thank you for showing that we are all human. One Love!

I have been a Crue fan since I was a kid. I always thought Nikki was just about the cat's meow in all ways. This book was a really great read into his life in a HORRIBLE time that should have been great. His addiction really speaks out in this book, and it really pained me to read about someone so totally hooked on drugs. The only problem I had ( other than THANK GOD he came to grips over it) was his fixation on his childhood. It WAS a sad story, about his father abandoning him, and a mother so immature and selfish at times, that she let other people raise him, but what bugged me so bad was that it bugged HIM so bad. He really, basically, blamed his addiction on his childhood, and I think that was pretty sad. I had a Johnny Cash song childhood, and YES I made a few bonehead decisions when I was younger and blamed them on my Dad dying, his alcoholism, etc, but I just honestly NEVER let it push me into doing SMACK!I guess some people just deal with things differently than others. I really did like the story, I think he did himself a justice writing it, and I was really pleased with the ending, a SOMEWHAT happy one, but one that held a lot of hope, and hope is what keeps a person going. There was absolutley NOTHING glamorous in this book, and that is a GOOD THING, makes you really THINK about what hell an addiction can be. OH...and I STILL think Nikki is the cat's meow!!!!

Book was received in excellent condition and fast service.

What a great diary and direction of a rock n roll band, and how Nikki Sixx became who is was and is today. His childhood reminds me of so many little boys and girls being brought into this world by parents who don’t love each other, they separate, and then want nothing to do with the child. It’s amazing to see how the love he missed from his parents resulted in decades of hating himself. What a great book. Read it in 3 days.. couldn’t put it down!

I love Nikki Sixx' honesty so much. Although I have never ended up becoming addicted to any substances (which, frankly, amazes me) I could relate to much of what he was saying, particularly regarding the effects of depression and the way childhood experiences shape a person as an adult. My only complaint about the book was that the red text was a little hard for my not-so-young eyes to read. Other than that, this book is a winner.

I haven't taken the time in decades to read a book and with the advice of my amazing wife I picked this book up and read they shot out of it. It's helped me wrestle the distinctions of my own past. Thank you for the balance this book has provided my soul.

I you like music, I mean love music...musicians and rock culture. This is a phenomenal behind the scenes look at what's really going on after the show. When the tour is over. Its raw, scary and hilarious. Its such an easy read. You can pick it up, read a few pages and be entertained all day. And if you dig Crue, you will love all the excerpts from Tommy and Neil.

I just finished this book after reading ‘The Dirt.’ That book left me in turmoil! How did these guys even survive?? I’m sure they must ask themselves that often! Having just finished THIS book, I can see how Nikki Sixx has survived. He turned his demons and addictions into passions. He doesn’t go into great deal in the how he got sober. You are literally reading his diary entries from 1987. Then inserted periodically are words from Nikki and/or people who were there at that time in their own words today. At the end, Nikki writes about how and what he’s doing now. So if you were left kinda raw after reading ‘The Dirt’ like I was, read this one! Rock stars do have happy endings!

Riveting, raw and brutally honest. There is NOTHING in this book that glamorizes drug addiction. I disagree with the reviewer who stated of the book that "it is simply a self-loathing pity party." I believe that Mr. Sixx' point was to demonstrate, in a quite uncensored manner, how pitiful and self destructive his lifestyle was, LOOKING AT IT FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE SOBRIETY HE NOW HAS. One prominent feature of addicts is DENIAL. This book stands as a testament to Mr. Sixx' having addressed his problems and relinquishing his denial about his self destructive behavior. The story also provides HOPE to others that no matter how low you've gone, there is the opportunity to change your life. As far as the idea of this book being "a how to manual" for a future addict, I can't imagine anyone in his/her right mind wanting to pursue these kinds of behaviors after reading this book. Quite the contrary, I'd bet they'd be thinking twice after reading the grotesque details of substance abuse. Mr. Sixx is to be commended both regarding his sobriety and his willingness to air his dirty laundry to the world in the hopes of diverting others from the path he took. It would also be a great addition to the material presented to hear more about his experiences of achieving and maintaining sobriety.

This book is amazing…Nikki is the best!

One of, if not the greatest book I've ever read. I am a huge fan of Motley Crue and Sixx Am, and when I realized there is a book to the album, I had to read it. Sixx captivates his readers and never lets them go. This book is set up like a diary, and in fact is a diary. He kept a diary while on Herion (obviously) and many other drugs during the early stages of Crue. It amazes me what he went through as a child and as an adult. The book is scattered with lyrics to some of the most popular Crue songs and the meanings behind them. Along with the diary entries in the book, there are responses from the people who were with him at the time. I would HIGHLY recommend this book to ANY Crue, Sixx Am or Nikki Sixx fan. It is a captivating and fantastic read. Once you start it, you won't be able to put it down!

I read this book WITH my teenage son. Actually--he was reading it, which made me nervous so I downloaded it onto my Kindle to see what kind of "damage control" I was going to have to implement. As it turns out, I got hooked on the book myself (being a long time Crue fan who saw the Girls Girls Girls tour in Wichita Kansas...)and ended up having some of the best conversations with my boy as a result. Thank you Sixx for NOT glamorizing the drugged out rock n roll lifestyle. This book will do more to keep my boy OFF drugs than any lecture I could give. For those of you who may think I'm a bad mom to allow my son to read a book with bad language, sex etc. all I have to say is "welcome to the real world." Kids are hit by this stuff everywhere. I'm glad this book was REAL and showed the ugly side of all of that. My younger son is only 12 so I'm not ready to let him read it--but when he gets a little older I plan to read it again with him. Like I said--this will keep more kids off drugs than any preaching we responsible adults can do and for that I'm grateful. Thanks Sixx.

Flipped through this book, looks like a great read. However, the book cover came in poor condition. I’m willing to bet that it was shipped that way. The amazon package looked intact, without creases or dents. For that reason, I’m not giving 5 stars. I have received other books from Amazon that had arrived in fantastic condition. Other reviewers have received a poor quality Heroin Diaries as well

I have wanted to read this book for 2 years. I lost my daughter to an overdose. I can say I now understand how a heroin addict's mind works.

Very surprised with this Audio version. I have never really followed famous people, celebrities or musicians but decided to purchase this book out of curiosity and the positive reviews. Wow what a story. Nikki captures you up front with his introduction and keeps you in the book till the end. Even though you know Nikki's overall outcome before you buy the book.....you find yourself routing for him as he details his day to day hell. He is so lucky to be alive and even though I don't know him, have never met him or even been to a Crue concert, I am happy for the guy. Proud even. He managed to beat something that kills thousands.....literally thousands. Thanks for sharing the book Nikki and congratulations on your success and radio show. I listen when I can. Dean...51...Retired Air Force and new fan.

I really enjoyed reading Nkki's account of his rapid and total descent into heroin addiction. Its full of honesty and candor and he at no time makes excuses for it or blames others for it. Although his unstable childhood was no doubt a factor, he totally owns and takes responsibility for his behavior and addiction. I also enjoyed reading the perspectives of others who were around him during this time. It is truly amazing that he survived and is still around to talk about it. Its a cautionary tale that speaks volumes of his strength and resilience to make it through the horror of addiction, as so many other brilliant artists do not. Nikki's reflection on this time period of his life makes for good reading even if you're not a Motley Cru fan. It may even make you take a closer look.

So I'm completely unsure how much of this book is accurate as I imagine heroin users don't usually have the presence of mind to take notes on their life at that moment when their high. But even if a quarter of it is true it's amazing he survived and found a way out. I wish he would've made the connection between addiction and mental illness since I believe they run fairly parallel top each other in regards to how it affects your life and how mental illness is a constant battle just as being a recovering addict is. I've never used drugs but I definitely see many of the same thought processes addicts have as people with mental illness do.

I can't imagine how hard it must have been for Nikki to write down his story. Here is a multi-talented true artist pouring out the ugly details of his addiction sickness, his personal pain, and his spiraling self destruction. Yet even from the darkest corners of his life he found a light somewhere that brought him back to realize what a gift life truly is, and he became a better person because of it. Here is hope for anyone who feels hopeless, a beacon for anyone who can find no way out. No matter how big a disaster you may think your life is, there is a way to change it and make it better. This is the inspiring story of someone who did. Rock on Nikki, thanks for sharing your story and continuing to share your creative passion with the world. I am truly glad you're still around making music to make us smile.

The heroin diaries was very detailed. It was unbelievable what Nikki did for a high. So high at times, I don’t know how he was functioning at all. He’s lucky to be alive. I didn’t want the book to end. I read the first addition and purchased the 10th Anniversary Edition for the added bonuses. I will definitely read again.

I didn't know what to expect from this book. Never been a Motley fan, however I listened to Nikki Sixx on Howard Stern and he sounded like an interesting guy. He was talking about his book on the show, so I decided to pick it up. The book blew me away. I have read tons of books about bands, rockstars, and drug abuse, however this one takes the cake. I firmly believe that nothing short of a bullet to the head could take this guy out. I have no idea how he is still living. Because the book is basically his actual diary from that time frame(with present-day comments inserted, provided by himself and those who were around him at that time), the book comes across as truer feeling than most books about rock stars. The book really gives one a realistic insight to how gripping drug addiction can be, and how easy it is to come into contact with drugs and dealers when you are one of the most successful musicians in the world. Difficult to read at times because of the subject matter, and very depressing at parts, but overall a great read. I blasted through it in about 3 days.

I love the mixture of journal entries and modern commentary. Very well rounded book that was entertaining and heartwarming. Highly recommend

It amazes me how strong (and crazy) Nikki is that he’s lived through this nightmare of pain, drug addiction, mental health problems to tell the story. It’s truly the most amazing addict story I’ve ever heard. It’s a story about life, and death, and a forsaken child, and lots of rock n roll. Great read.

Nikki hits a home run on this one. The first thing that struck me is the way the book is presented. It's not a dry, white page, black words presentation - it's constructed in a graphic novel motif, complete with sketches and anecdotal notes from Nikki and those around him at the time (Dec. 1986 - Dec. 1987). It was during this period I saw the Crue on the GGG tour. Little did the 18 yo in row 23 on the floor of the Spectrum realize the suicidal path of my heroes. This book makes you feel like taking a shower; it is raw, brutal, dirty, and always honest. This disease knows no boundaries, and Nikki shows (with a lot of hard work), you can manage to put a life together. The book is very sad a times, but so worth the read.

Good book, looking forward to his latest release!

This story evoked in me, raw emotions I knew I needed to feel. I saw this book and felt drawn down the rabbit hole. I raged and laughed and cried and celebrated with Nikki. I give this book a rating of 5 stars because it's a story that needs to be read. Thank you Nikki. It's truly inspiring.

Great read. This book shows the power of overcoming the power of drugs and the effects they have on a persons life.

Gift for my God daughter she loved it

How Nikki managed to live through that is nothing short of amazing. Reminds me of Pete Way of UFO and his antics.

This book is well written and given from the perspective from while the author was still using and from the perspective clean I love this book and see alot of myself in this book.

If your looking for an enthralling read that will take you to the depths of addiction. This is it. This raw insight doesn't glamorize the life just warns you of it's ability to cripple anyone. And I believe is a good example that anyone can get help.

This book is way beyond words for description!!! Reading this book can bring you to tears and to the bottom of Sixx’s world at that time! I had no idea how much pain he was in! I love Motley Crue, so over joyed for his hard won battle to sobriety!!

Whoa, what a story. I was a huge Motley Crue fan (still am) during the 80's and had always heard that they were a hard partying band. But I had no idea. What was upsetting was that he knew he was going down the wrong path, but the pull of the drugs and his seemingly inferiority complex kept him from saying no to them. What got a little grinding was Vanity. The way the book is set up is that there is a diary entry, and then Nikki writes about it looking at it today. Then if he mentions someone else, the authors went and interviewed that person about the entry. when they interviewed Vanity she would always talk as the holy roller that she is now, rather than recollecting what a drug addict waste she was then.she got way too preachy. After a while I would just skip over her parts. All in all a great book.

Interesting read into the darkness of addiction

Couldn't put this one down!! Absolutely love the reflections in Nikki Six's diary paired with current day commentaries from the people who lived through this Era with Nikki!

this book was more than I've spected, it was sad, funny... sick and healthy all at the same time... for me it was such an experience to read it because I was always a fan of Motley Crue, Nikki Sixx was for me my "self confidence icon" when I was a teen.. now I realize how far from reality I was and not only that,,, Nikki really show us the readers that to see the appearance of a person is not enough to really know what's inside, he suffered a lot and put himself in to real terrible experiences, at the end he made me understand that we must accept our fate and make efforts to improve our lives every day. Good graphics and pictures also, the design is unique and gets conected with every single situation, I definelly feel closer to Nikki (who is someone that I've admired almost all my life)and I thank him for letting me know more about his life. I hope many people with drug abuse problem will read this book, I think it could help them to make the desition and try to get clean. Candragora

This book is a MUST Read for Anyone who’s life has been impacted by Heroin Addiction! Nikki Sixx keeps it Raw and Real. This book finally gave me some closure and understanding about Why my Partner used Heroin again after being Sober almost 3 years.

Excellent book. I'm a child of the 80s, so I grew up on Crue. I saw Vince way back when he was fired/quit from the band and went solo ,and he did all the Crue's songs anyway. And I saw them on their farewell tour in 2015. Excellent first person narrative of a man going to his own personal hell. The additional commentaries by people who were there to watch his fall and give their perspective is fascinating. Nikki's inside dirt on who did what to who and when is darkly funny and compelling An excellent read and cautionary tale of what unlimited access to whatever you want can do to you. Crue fans will love it and even if you're not a fan/not of this age category, it's just a plain good read.

Dust jacket almost pristine. Pages look great. Looks like a new book versus used.

I was unsure about reading this book. Was I going to like it or is it just another spoiled rock star tale. As a kid I listened to the band but didn't know about all the crazy things they did. I grew up listening with my dad and my daughter and I listen to them now. This is amazing book... well written! I felt like I got to see a new side of the band. Being a country girl sitting on the front porch reading this took me back to my teenage years and all the mistakes and wrong turns I made but till came out ok. I will definitely read this book again. Now off to read The Dirt. Nikki Sixx your a amazing man!

I have to give this book 5 stars! This book, showed me, that when you love a band, and think you’re a super fan and know everything about them. I knew nothing, I never knew, Nikki Sixx was so broken, and has endured so much, and am amazed he came through everything he endured! This book gave me so much more respect, for him, and for the music he wrote for Motley Crue. I now find myself listening more to the lyrics and feeling some of the pain. I totally would recommend this book to not only Motley Crue fans, or Nikki Sixx fans, but anyone going through hardships or whatever your going through in life, we all can take notes from this man.

Wanted this every since it came out but didn't get it , but loved the album , wow , got the book now and i cant put it down, this should be in every High School in America. Kids look up to so called rock stars and this is a perfect picture into a life almost lost and wasted because of drugs, thank GOD he lived thru it. We have already lost way too many talented folk due to this very thing. Educate you kids early and hope for the best. Dont use scare tactics, truth is scary enough.

Only Nikki Sixx knows for sure, but I couldn't help thinking- this sounds like something that was made up for the book. The book depicts about a year in his life- when he was a heroin addict. This is not an autobiography. Its supposed to be just what it says it is- diary entries. But I find it hard to believe that someone who is wacked out of their head is going to be able to write coherently in a diary. I know someone who has a drug problem and when they try to post something on social media, it's utter nonsense. My BS detector was going off a lot while I was reading it. Again, only Nikki knows for sure.

This book has a lot going for it and is a look into a certain time of life from one of rocks notorious bad boys. Motley Crüe got me through a lot of hard times growing up and this book is letting me know I'm not alone in those tough times and depression. Fair warning this book has language that may be offensive to some and the treatment of women.

I loved that Nikki gave up his diary to the world, unedited. It's such a raw view of his mental space in time. It was hard to read at times but that didn't make me put it down. A great read even for someone who isn't an addict.

One of the best books ever written. Nikki Sixx did what most of us living in recovery wish we had done He put our story in a book. It is a must read!!!

I have heard about this book over the years but never really was interested in reading it. Honestly thought it would be like reading the rambling of the drugged out rock star. Funny thing is I read the book because of seeing him on LA Ink and realizing what a nice guy he really is. I then wandered what the heck this book was all about and was really shocked to find that this was really a good book. Even though he was so strung out most of the time he still had the peace of mind to put it all on paper. I am not sure if he changed any of the diary from the original so we could understand the drugged out rambling but either way this was a great book. More power the the man to put his personal life and writings out there for the whole world the read. This just shows that he was willing to do this to help others and let the rest of us understand some of the craziness named Nikki Sixx

I liked this book so much I had it read in 2 days. It gives you an inside view of the insanity of a band who had anything they wanted, delivered to them, even though they couldnt find true happiness doing what they loved. Nikki Sixx shares his spiral into the depths of addiction and ALL the vices he had. If you're getting a bit older like me, make sure you have your glasses and good lighting, some pages are black with red writings. I'm glad I bought this book, it will be one I reread through the years.

One of the best books I have read in almost a decade completely real, completely raw and he holds nothing back I want everyone I know to read this book it is incredible!!!!!!!!

I will keep this short and sweet. This was a very moving and intruging book. Nikki Sixx is one of rock's greatest icons, and a look into a year of his life's struggles with addiction was captivating. I felt as areader I was right there with him in his "heroin den", overdosing, and on the road. His diary refelcted that of the artist he is. He has a great way with words that really invited the reader to understand his mess and sordid outlook on life. A great book. I loved the art work, and the commentaries of the people in his life during this time, it was a great way for him tohave reflection of his past. I will def re-read this again after sometime. A very real perspective of drug addiction andhow it can dibilate lives. I am so glad he was able to get help and stick to being clean and sober. Thanks Nikki for sharing a piece of your world with the public.

Yes I am a Crue fan. That is one of the reasons I bought the ebook. However that is NOT the reason I read the whole thing in a day. I enjoyed the personal and in depth writing. The honesty that Nikki used was refreshing. As a former spouse to an addict who passed away from a heart attack before he was 40 (death certificate states methamphetamine as 1st cause of death), I saw MANY similarities in the two of them. Yes I had many tears while reading both for Nikki and for my late husband. I also came away with a better understanding of the addiction. I know heroin is MUCH more potent than Meth. I also know they can be similar at times. Thank you Nikki for this. I am truly glad I bought it.

Excellent look into the struggle Nikki had. It helps to understand addiction and what people actually experience and shows hope to people that you can overcome your issues and addictions.

One of the best most honest well-written book an addiction and Recovery you could possibly read

I enjoyed this book very much. I never was a Motley fan. I liked a couple of their songs but since reading the book I had to investigate their music. After listening to a lot of their songs I found a few that were pretty good. I don't know how any of them guys stayed alive let alone performed as often as they did. I thought it was well written,easy to follow and addictive. I had a hard time putting it down.As I said I am not a Motley fan and enjoyed it, but for a fan it is a must read. I just finished The Dirt: Confessions of the World's Most Notorious Rock Band and this book is more about the other guys in the band that I found was very revealing. I enjoyed this book as well.

This book is everything you would expect of a book called Heroine Diaries. Motley Crue was my favorite and Nikki was the man. 1987 was one of the best years of my life and I would have thought the same for Nikki with the success of Girls Girls Girls .. He had everything .. In access .. It breaks my heart reading about how he almost everything and almost lost the most important thing to me .. His life .. This book was a page turned for me .. Glad Nikki I'd still with us and living a happy, successful live that he earned . Rock on Nikki Sixx

I was a childhood can't of motley crue . I loved how real and authentic this book got. Love him glad he made it

All fans of Nikki Sixx should read this book. If you know anyone addicted, it will help you understand what they are going through . I never my life could imagine living through what Nikki did. This book should be offered in rehab centers for patients to read.

This was a book I picked up and couldn’t put down till it was finished. I related several times. In fact, some parts were hard to read because they were so relatable. And I think that’s what made it therapeutic. I laughed, I cried and some parts left me speechless. I absolutely loved this book so much (I purchased on kindle) that I raved for days about it and my hubby surprised me by ordering me the paperback. (I’m an old soul and ebooks just don’t mean as much as the physical copies.) 🖤🤘🏼

I have always had a fascination with reading about musicians and I love reading about the few that have actually been in the depths of hell of addiction and been able to find their way out! This is an amazing story but Nikki doesn't try to glamorize his escapades and he doesn't downplay it either. He tells it like it is, the pain, not just for yourself but for everyone who knows and loves you. And he doesn't downplay the recovery either or shove it down your throat, he doesn't live in guilt, or see himself as a super hero, he is just a very lucky man who did what so many others have not been able to do! Thank you for sharing your story Nikki and may you remain on your new path for the rest of your days!

Great condition

Wow! What a ride 87' was. Some of the stories had me dropping my jaw because I just couldn't believed he had done what he wrote. He was in a very dark place in his life and how he came out alive....absolutely no clue. He must be a cat with 9 lives!

I loved hearing Nikki telling his story down and dirty, no glorifying, just dark ass fact. Read the book 10 years ago. Gets more rhought provoking each time. Amazing

First of all, this book is drivel. It is the addicted ramblings of a crybaby rock star. It is in this weird graphic format with drawings & magazine like pages which is supposed to make the reader feel more like he/she is actually reading a diary. However, the drawings are not done by Nikki Sixx. They are fabricated by some MTV artist who wants to make the book feel more "rock star." Secondly,in addition to the diary entries, we get this ongoing commentaries by Nikki in present day & also different people in Nikki's life who add their two sense to the situation which gives the book a cheap reality show feel. Sometimes this was helpful giving a "behind the scenes" look at different perspectives, but sometimes it was really just annoying. Like I think we could have done without Vanity's (oh, excuse me, Evangelist Denise Matthews) commentaries. Thirdly, I would have really enjoyed seing some of the actual photos of Nikki, however they were all splotched up with the inky graphic junk scribbles that covered the whole book. The content, the actual writings are poor. To sum it up in one entry: "I don't like fame. My family f___ed me up. I am rich & can buy whatever I want. I am so depressed. I haven't showered in 8 days. I pissed the bed. I am going to do a bunch of blow/smack/pills/ and drink a bottle of JD. I love music." There you have it, the book in one entry followed by a commentary saying how brilliant Nikki was & how f___d up he was. Don't get me wrong, I love Motley Crue! I think they are one of the greatest rock/metal bands ever. I think drug & alcohalism is a terrible problem. I think Nikki Sixx is an interesting person with talent, but you just won't find evidence of that in this book. Do yourself a favor, if you want to read a real rock 'n roll autobiography of substance, skip this one & read Slash's "Slash."

What a great read. I knew Motley Crew partied, but I had no idea how hard. Huge fan since Shout at The Devil came out and have been to every concert when they were in the area. Reading about how much drugs were involved blew my mind because I can not believe they are all still alive. Great story Nikki. I think because you wrote this all down and looked back it saved your life, Congratulations for being clean for so many years and inspiring others to get clean also.

Got this book for my friend and he is dealing with depression trying to get used to the sober life. And he loved this book it's one of my favorites and you can really relate. Although it seems like he had more of a coke issue then heroin

Wow how this awesome increadible talented man lived to produce this book and republish it 10 years later. Just beyond amazing! Extremely intense and could not put down till the end. Congrats Nikki on living and not dying. You are a true inspiration to so many of us with addictions (either in recovery or still fighting to get there)...Thank you for your deep honest truth!

Nikki Sixx is amazing. Very talented and smart. To go through everything he went through and still write songs and basically manage the band and kick addiction is unbelievable. This book is is a must read if you are a fan of Nikki and Motley Crue.

Anybody familiar with Motley Crue knows about their penchant for excess. This diary fully details the struggle of an addict at the height of his addiction. And Nikki doesn't hold back. Written entry by entry style, then followed by commentary by the people in his life at that time (Vanity, family members, the rest of Motley Crue, agents and the like), it gives a clear picture of how far gone Nikki was during the Girls, Girls, Girls period of 1987. His struggles to stop, his struggles to get his habit under control, the haluncinations caused by his habit paint a clear picture of a man dealing with an addition that was taking over everything. That he kept a diary is simply mindblowing. It's a cautionary tale that is definitely a must read.

Lots of great rock n roll stories during a harrowing decent. Told in a unique style, fitting it's author. It's amazing to see how much hell a human can take and still recover from it all. On a side note, my Kindle version was full of typos. I found a lot of places where I had to just guess at what a word was supposed to be. What's up with that, publisher?

The honesty in this book and the way Nikki turned his life around is amazing. I could hardly put it down.

Very interesting read. Essentially a year in the life of Nikki Sixx through his own lens in "real-time", as well as the views of those around him at the same time. Layered upon that are present-day reflections of Nikki and many of the same individuals, describing now what it was like back then relative to the specific stories and events. It's an amazing story about what we, the public, don't know or see - the life of a rock star at the very top of the world was at the same time as low as it could possibly be for him. Not a pity story or a sympathy grab, just a very interesting, very matter of fact view of life as it was for this particular rock star.

I’ve read quite a bit of books by or about musicians and they all seem to have that chapter of their lives that included experimentation and or addiction. After awhile it becomes routine and boring to read about. This book is far from that. Definitely interesting telling by Mr. Sixx. The only bummer here for me was the crazy changes in page and font color with every page turn. Not easy on the eyes. Bottom line great book but terrible design as far as presentation goes. My most uncomfortable read ever but it was worth it.

I was never really a fan of "Crue." I picked this up to help me understand the driving force behind addiction. Even for being a "privileged" addict, (Money, cars and homes. Not having to rob or prostitute yourself like normal addicts.) It is still shocking to see the devastating effects of drugs an people. I will admit, leaving out spoilers some parts of the book seem like they were added later to add emphasis on how bad his addiction was. What I do like about the book is Nikki Sixx getting his mother, grandfather, band mates and other musicians to add their fill on what was going on during this horrific year. If you live in a fairy tale pixy dust world don't read. If your a rough around the edges desensitized person I strongly suggest reading this book.

I fell in love with the song, “Life is Beautiful,” and then eventually the whole rest of the soundtrack as a teenager, but always put reading the book off. To those still thinking about reading it, stop waiting, and dig in.

Most rock stars wouldn’t put their life; the good, the bad, and the ugly out there, but Nikki does, and I finished the book admiring him greatly for it! Great read!

There was nothing I didn’t like! I’ve been in recovery almost 5 years and I haven’t read a book about addiction and recovery in a long time that’s hit as hard as this one! You can feel Nikki’s pain in his writing, the confusion and anger of wanting someone to care enough to want you to get clean and then wanting to just tell them off when they do care enough to say something!

I am so glad that Nikki finally got sober and made a wonderful life for himself. It's very sad that people in the entertainment industry have so many addictions. I know ordinary people do too. It just so rampant among the famous. I'm glad he published this book because I'm sure it has and will help those who suffer from the demons of addictions.

This is a great book that I can see someone using in order to make the decision to admit themselves into a rehab facility

Love Nikki and this book does not disappoint

Absolutely love the book. It was so raw. As a recovering addict myself I could relate on so many levels. Only difference was fame & fortune.

I enjoyed the book immensely, but... after reading the hygiene issues associated with his addiction, it kind of made me wonder how in the world he ever managed to have any women at all though; yuck. LOL There are other surprising things in there as well. The Rock-n-Roll lifestyle we all expect, but some of this stuff, no, not at all. :) It took a lot of guts to publish something like that, and I think this book can be very beneficial to others. Good job Nikki Sixx. You can also tell how intelligent the man is even through "those times" when these diaries were written; and the book is put together very well with much humor.

I have read this book a few times, and I think it's a great read for anyone who has been impacted by addiction in any way.

Not sure why I just recently got around to reading this since it’s been out nearly 12 years, but glad I finally got myself a copy. I’ve been a fan since I was a kid in the 80’s and always had a fondness for Nikki. I read this book in two days and couldn’t put it down. I will probably re read in the future. Great insight into a sad year of his life. Glad he’s still around, but hard to believe after reading it!

I admit to never being much of a Motley Crue fan but reading the reviews i thought this might be a story of survival and redemption. Really, Nikki Sixx just seems like a bad person, on drugs or off drugs. And his excuse (Mom problems) really wears thin. Many of us have bad childhoods with uncaring parents and we either grow up and try to better than that or we just trash everything and everybody and be a negative influence on all those around us. You can decide for yourself by reading this but i warn you it's not really worth your time unless Nikki Six repeatedly stabbing himself full of dope and then complaining about it is exciting to you. It would be one thing if he or Motley Crue produced anything of artistic merit but Dr. FeelGood doesn't count if you weren't 16 years old in the 80's. Really it might have been a better story if the guy actually O'D'd for real. This book just makes it look too easy to be a trashed out rockstar and then quit the life when you get too old. Real dope addicts don't need to be misled into thinking their heroin habit is going to have a happy ending.

The info is a bit detailed for one on heroin, but I feel sure those friends who added notes and anecdotes helped Nikki with his recollections. Fascinating, gross details and all. The addition of dates and places allowed me to be able to revisit concert footage and get a glimpse of Nikki's mindset at the time or lack thereof.

I loved this book and really felt for Nikki....I'm so glad that he is happy now because through all of his self destruction I could tell that he was uber intelligent and just very sensitive...and sad. I read this book on Kindle. My only complain is the number of typos in the last quarter of the book....an insane amount of typos!!! Poorly edited. But my hats off to Nikki the rest of the book

Book is in amazing condition. A+++++++

I love Nikki and I love this book. Even if you’re not a fan of his music or him. This book is really interesting and provides a good glimpse into what was once his reality

Most tell all biographies somehow romanticize heroin addiction, this book does not do that. I somehow felt like I was hiding in that closet with Nikki praying for peace and release. He doesn't hide the fact that he was an arrogant rich s*** head that could have what and he who he wanted and got away with incredible acts of destruction. I appreciate his honesty in this and while I know I will never know what it's like to go through what he has been through, I have a better understanding. Rock on Nikki!