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I first have to say that I think the information and overall message of this book is so important. I haven't had a lot of experience with domestic violence and knowing there are so many women and children (and men) in the world suffering through this is heartbreaking. The author of this book works as a victim's advocate so her personal, first hand knowledge and experience go a long way in making this novel valid and real. And honestly? Thank goodness for Shannon and people like her to help, support and love to people when they need it the most.
As for the book itself, I had a hard time settling into it. The scenes jump around a lot and it made it hard for me to connect on an emotional level to the characters. Just when I would start getting a feel for a person and their situation, their personality, I would be shifted to a different person in a different place. It just made it hard to keep people straight in the beginning and connect to them. By the end I had all the characters down but the emotional connection to them was still missing.
I did feel the build of intensity in the story though. Things escalate steadily to provide an end to this book that is dramatic and intense. I loved the feeling of community and faith among the characters. This book gave me insight to the lives of those who suffer from domestic abuse and I'm always grateful when I read a book and walk away feeling like I know more than I did before.
Content: Some violence, domestic abuse. Mentions of pornography, infidelity and a hint of an attempted rape. Characters are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints so there is talk about religion, God and praying.
- I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Cedar Fort. All opinions expressed are my own.
Shannon Symonds currently works as an Advocate serving victims of intimate partner or family violence. Shannon responds with law enforcement to the scene of domestic or sexual assaults, works with victims, accompanies them to the hospital and provides follow-up care. She is a trained trauma and recovery specialist, has completed the Oregon Coalition training as a professional advocate, has completed training as a parent educator, Head Start Teacher, early childhood education certification and one year program, an Associates Degree with an emphasis in Social Services, has worked and trained as an advocate for over 15 years total. She is the recipient of the Oregon Trial Lawyers award for her work to change housing for victims of domestic violence. She is a confident trainer and speaker, and is comfortable working with the public.
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