Hi Liz,
I finished your book last night. Congratulations on a well written book. I think it helped that I knew the real names of the people referenced and had some insight to the family. I think Dale inherited the mental illness from both sides of his parents. I never liked Iris or her sister (my ex mother in law) who was on valium most of her life.
They were both very judgmental of us outsiders. I hope writing the book has brought you peace and i am so happy you have found a better life.
Lots of love XX