About the Author

Danielle Sartorelli never planned to become a writer. Her debut memoir, Life in Instalments, wasn’t born out of a publishing dream—it was born out of survival. In the midst of personal turmoil, when life felt like it was falling apart, Danielle turned to writing as a way to process the chaos and pain around her. What began as therapy—one raw, unfiltered chapter at a time—evolved into a powerful story of love, loss, and resilience.

In Life in Instalments, Danielle shares the deeply personal journey of "Donna," a reflection of herself, as she confronts the heartbreaking realities of loving a brother caught in addiction and crime. With courage and honesty, she explores the emotional and relational toll that addiction takes—not just on the one struggling, but on everyone who loves them.

Danielle’s voice is authentic and painfully human. She writes not just to be heard, but to connect—with those who’ve lived through addiction’s ripple effects, those still fighting, and those who want to understand. Her work invites readers into the often-silenced spaces of grief, guilt, and hope, offering a story that’s as much about survival as it is about healing.

Danielle lives in Western Australia with her husband and their two incredible sons—her greatest sources of strength and joy. Their love has carried her through life’s challenging chapters, and their unwavering support has been the heartbeat of this journey.

When she’s not writing, Danielle works as a dedicated school teacher—a role that has long fulfilled her desire to inspire and connect. Teaching allows her to channel her creativity and compassion into something lasting, guiding young minds and nurturing potential in others, just as she’s learned to nurture it in herself.

Life in Instalments is her first book—and it’s a brave beginning.