A FORMER high school teacher's new book has become an Amazon bestseller.

Louise Herridge, from Woolston, launched Mamas Ignited: Stop Ironing, Start Living this week.

And the 42-year-old's latest read has hit number one in seven categories with the retail giant – including new releases and inspirational spirituality, knocking New York Times best-selling author Jay Shetty off the top spot in the latter.

The mum's self-care book documents her journey from mental health struggles and suffering from domestic abuse to rebuilding her life and becoming a successful businesswoman.

Ex-St Gregory's Catholic High School drama and English teacher Louisa, who now lives in Paddington, said: "In my search for a happy ever after, my dreams got lost along the way.

"Mamas Ignited: Stop Ironing, Start Living is my story, your story, our story – because we have all at times wanted more, and that never involves more ironing.

"In the past two years I have built a business from scratch after pulling myself out of the depths of despair and vortex of doom.

"My self-care was at an all-time low.

"Diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, my mental health declined and I hit rock bottom resulting in an emotional and psychological burnout.

"I want to help women to tap into their story and be able to speak from the scar not the wound, using it to ignite their overall impact.

"I have had my share of adversity and know how hard it can be to stop listening to your inner critic, voice of doom and the tight grip of imposter syndrome and anxiety. I understand your fear of judgement or failure – I had it too.

"As a mindset and empowerment coach, I work with women to help them to find their spark – whether that be personally or in their businesses – so that they can turn up the dial on living lives they actually love, transforming their ironing boards into surfboards that will ride the waves of their next adventure."