Tara Taylor Quinn dares to novelize her own true love
story,
in her groundbreaking novel filled with heartbreaking
truths. It Happened on Maple Street sends a soaring
message
of hope that the redeeming power of love and refusing to bow
to tragedy or time, can truly conquer all.
The quintessential good girl with her nose in a book, Tara
lived in a sleepy Ohio town. She'd never been kissed when
she began college, but that soon changed when she met hunky
tennis ace Tim Barney in a Geology class. Tara fell so hard
and fast she didn't need a rock on her finger to make the
ultimate commitment. But Tim wasn't ready to commit and Tara
walked away, knowing she could never recover from the
irreparable hurt he was capable of wielding with a wave of
his hand.
It was another man's hand who shattered her trust and took
her innocence on one fateful night. And yet another man she
laid cold beside in a loveless marriage-of-convenience bed.
Yes, bad things happened after Tara broke up with Tim at
his parent's house on Maple Street. Very bad things that
she hid within the open pages of the romance novels she
would become famous for writing. These were stories of love
overcoming seemingly unbeatable odds and yet Tara Taylor
Quinn couldn't hold her own sad marriage together.
But when an email message suddenly upends her world, the
past is brought into shocking focus. The message is from Tim
Barney. Does she remember him—the guy from college whose
heart she broke? He's never forgotten her.
Plunged into a plot twist beyond her own imaginings, Tara
has to discover if love can be as real as the kind she
writes about. Is it possible that after years of emotional
isolation, she may finally embrace a happily-ever-after of
her own?
More Information
Dear Reader:
You’re holding a one of a kind story. I can say that because I wrote it and I know that I am never, ever going to write another one like it. This is a once in a lifetime kind of book about a once in a lifetime kind of love.
As a naïve and sheltered twenty-year old, I trusted a man of God. And when he mistreated me, and told me the fault was mine, I believed him. For almost thirty years I carried the secret of what that man had done to me. Until my true love came back into my life with the determination to set me free.
This book, a romance novel unlike any other, is a tribute to a love that is stronger than time. Stronger than tragedy and human frailties. And it is a coming out. My family and friends will be hearing my story for the first time, right along with the rest of the world. I hope and pray that in its telling, other women will find the courage and conviction that I did not have, the trust and faith, to speak up when they are wronged. To tell someone. Anyone.
And this book is a tribute to my husband – Tim Barney. He is proof positive that the love I write about, the love that is strong enough to survive anything, really does exist. I am Tara Taylor Quinn, USA today bestselling author of 115 romance and suspense novels. And this is my true love story.
Tara, you are an inspiration to women everywhere and it's an honor to read the novels you write because you are an inspiration to me too. I love the cover of It Happened on Maple Street and believe me the INSTANT it's out it'll be in my shopping cart. I can't wait to read it. Even though I loved the Chapman Files novels it's the next one I'm really looking forward to. (Debbie Haupt 10:57am December 9, 2010)
You are very lucky...you too Tim! (Darla Ray 12:17pm December 9, 2010)
This story sounds intriguing. I've requested it be published for the KINDLE as that is the only way I can read anymore. The cover looks fabulous!! (Diana Leneker 12:22pm December 9, 2010)
As for the cover of your book, I think it shows the time and innocence of when your story took place. You should be very proud of the fact that you got your story out, even though I'm sure it was painful at times. I'm looking forward to reading it very much!! They say everyone has a story in them, waiting to be told, and perhaps yours is coming out at the right time. Have a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year!! (Peggy Roberson 12:31pm December 9, 2010)
The healing power of love is such a strong and true thing. So many people have been hurt or burned or whatever one wants it call it by either a boyfriend/girlfriend, friend or family member. Too often people build a wall to close themselves off from hurt. If that wall can be broken by the power of love, then the end result is even more powerful. Terrific idea and title for your book and I do so look forward to reading it. (Connie Fischer 12:37pm December 9, 2010)
WOW!! That's all I can say! Wow! I will HAVE to read your book! (Kelli Jo Calvert 1:07pm December 9, 2010)
Thanks everyone! I'm seasoned at having books out there, but this one is so different. I think I need to take a cruise to a far away island when it's released.
I'm really glad you all like the cover! (Tara Taylor Quinn 1:53pm December 9, 2010)
It's a sweet cover. (Mary Preston 2:41pm December 9, 2010)
Book sounds great and I'm sure I'll like it alot. (Vickie Hightower 2:50pm December 9, 2010)
Another up-all-night read from you is a great reason to look forward to April! I love the cover; it really echoes the first love sentiment of the story! (Lynda Kachurek 3:16pm December 9, 2010)
Oh I think it is a wonderful cover.. really kinda of evokes that 'college campus' feeling. (Cate Sparks 3:58pm December 9, 2010)
I love the cover. It instantly conveys innocence and first love. I immediately feel as if I'm on a school/college campus. Can't wait to read this newest romance. (Lisa Richards 8:16pm December 9, 2010)
The book sounds great! Would love to read it! (Brenda Rupp 8:19pm December 9, 2010)
isn't it April yet? (Leeanne Williams 8:49pm December 9, 2010)
Thanks everyone! So the cover works. I'm into it now! I liked it - I just wasn't sure it said what it needed to say. It does! The first half of the book is a college story. The second half is the rest of it. (Tara Taylor Quinn 7:34am December 10, 2010)
True love is sweet and grows on you. I believe that love is only as strong as the people make it work out. Anyone who says love is simple has got to be kidding. (Alyson Widen 12:23pm December 13, 2010)
Good grief, you just proved you are human. It shouldn't be too big a deal to anyone. (Patricia Barraclough 8:57pm December 15, 2010)
Wow, what an amazing story. (Barbara Hanson 5:09am April 19, 2011)
Domestic violence does not discriminate. Nobody ever really knows what goes on behind closed doors. You think someone's life is seemingly perfect and then...
I applaud you for sharing your story. (Mona Garg 7:30am April 19, 2011)
great story. Looking forward to reading it. (Pam Howell 7:51am April 19, 2011)
I think it's great that you are discussing domestic violence without shame. There is still such fear and stigma. Thank you very much. kristiedonelson(at)gmail(dot)com (Kristie Donelson 8:32am April 19, 2011)
While lucky enough not to have lived through your pain, I have watched it in my family and friends. Thank you for daring to speak out about such a personal issue and making a way for others to feel your doubts and your strength. Hoorah for your bravery and the courage to tell such a personal story! (Renee Brown 9:11am April 19, 2011)
Thank you for sharing. I understand your pain and am so sorry you had to endure that. But you sharing shows so much courage! You are awesome!! (Dawn Staniszeski 10:02am April 19, 2011)
You are very brave and strong. Good luck in all that you do. (Renee Pajda 10:09am April 19, 2011)
You are so brave! Good luck with your book! (May Pau 10:30am April 19, 2011)
Tara, Thanks again for speaking out, your voice will reach those who need to hear it. what they do is up to them but to let them know that they are not alone is a huge step.
Deb (Debbie Haupt 10:43am April 19, 2011)
Once again, a great post. You and Tim have done an amazing job with original blog posts each day - thanks for keeping it 'Fresh'! And, of course, thanks for sharing your story in a way that makes it easier for those who need help to get help. (Karen Cherubino 10:50am April 19, 2011)
Mona,
Once again you hit it exactly right. You could be describing me for so much of my life. There are so many others out there. I hope we can help them to take the first step out of the darkness.
Everyone,
Your encouragement gives so much strength. Thank you. I hope you can give the same if there is ever anyone you know who needs to find a way to speak up. I hope we can all be that listening 'ear' for however long it takes. (Tara Taylor Quinn 11:15am April 19, 2011)
looking forward to reading this book. love that you and Tim were able to write it together from both your perspectives... (Diana Leneker 11:40am April 19, 2011)
Thanks for telling a story that is so much a part of yourself! It couldn't have been easy, but what an inspiration you are for others! (Sandy Fielder 12:01pm April 19, 2011)
I have never experienced domestic abuse but have 2 sisters who have. I cannot imagine living that way. Thanks to you for telling your story. It just might help someone who picks it up to read and they or someone they know is living with domestic abuse and it may be just the thing to convince them to get help. (Mary Branham 12:46pm April 19, 2011)
sounds like an amazing story I have to read...I know leaving a situation like that takes alot of strength...but talking about it takes even more courage...so thank you Respectfully a fan (Chele Blades 12:56pm April 19, 2011)
I would really like to read your book since I have never experienced domestic violence and don't really understand it--how can someone who hasn't experience it understand it---but I know people that have and would like to know how to talk to them about it rather than just avoiding the subject. (Sue Farrell 12:57pm April 19, 2011)
This sounds like an amazing story, I cannot wait to read it. You are very courageous sharing your life with us, thank you. (Jody Hollenbeck 1:01pm April 19, 2011)
I ALWAYS SAY THAT WE ARE ONLY AS SICK AS OUR SECRETS...I APPLAUD YOUR ROAD TO WELL-BEING! (Silvana Moscato 1:04pm April 19, 2011)
I would love to read your book. I was lucky to get out of a marriage before me or my daughter got hurt really bad..Thank you for sharing your life... (Leisa Prater 1:06pm April 19, 2011)
It is fantastic that people can speak freely and receive help when they are dealing with such a horrific life experience. These individuals that stand up for what is right are true heroes! (Darci Paice 1:15pm April 19, 2011)
I can not wait to read this book. Good for you for giving voice to Domestic Violence. (Annetta Stolpmann 1:17pm April 19, 2011)
I, as many others, would love to read your book. It takes added strength to be able to move back to the area and make it your home again. I applaud you for keeping the subject alive on your tour, and not just promoting your book. Please thank your Husband for having a part in the book as well. Not many Husbands would step forward and do a compilation such as this. You married a gem!! (Peggy Roberson 1:21pm April 19, 2011)
Thank you for sharing your story! Blessings, Marjorie (Marjorie Carmony 1:21pm April 19, 2011)
Your support has me in tears. I hope other women who need this kind of acceptance are here, reading as well, and gaining strength from the knowledge that even though we don't talk about domestic violence, we are aware of it and will do all we can to help anyone suffering from it. (Tara Taylor Quinn 2:01pm April 19, 2011)
I can't wait to read it!! Thanks so much for telling your story and for making sure there is somewhere for women and girls to go! (Kelli Jo Calvert 2:02pm April 19, 2011)
What a terrific story! It's one I want to read. (Anna Speed 2:07pm April 19, 2011)
Thank you for sharing your story with us! Always want to see people get their HEA! (Colleen Conklin 2:13pm April 19, 2011)
It truly is an amazing story, and that you're willing to bring it to the public so that others may recognize themselves and potentially get help to remove themselves from the same sort of situation is amazing beyond words.
I have read the story and could hardly put it down.
Can't wait to have the opportunity to spend time with you again in November. I was pretty excited to see your name on the list. (Sandi Shilhanek 2:23pm April 19, 2011)
This looks like a good read and congrats on getting this out there more! (Debra Simning-Chapman 2:29pm April 19, 2011)
I know when I went through abuse I always felt alone, like no one else could be going through it. I've been telling people for years what I went through, but not on the scale you and your book are doing it! I'm very happy for you! (Darla Ray 2:44pm April 19, 2011)
Tara and Tim ~ WOW ~ this is a popular stop on the tour. You are getting a lot of exposure here. I'll really have to look around. I'm amazed at how you manage to keep each stop fresh and interesting. Thank you again. (Kaelee/Linda Esau 2:45pm April 19, 2011)
Wow! This is amazing. Fresh and new. (Lisa Diel 3:21pm April 19, 2011)
I am so excited about this book. Your story is amazing and I am glad you are sharing it! (Sherie Lagarde 3:27pm April 19, 2011)
Sounds like an amazing story. I look forward to reading it. (Mary Perry 3:34pm April 19, 2011)
Sandi,
I'm so glad you got to read the book. And more glad that it passed with you. When we agreed to do this, I thought of all the people we could help and I was fully on board. I failed to consider all of the people who knew me, people whose opinions I valued, also reading it. I saw the book in our neighbor's hands last night and couldn't breathe.
Kaelee,
I'm glad you're enjoying the stops. That's the great fun in all of this. We've got some brand new ones coming up in the next week or two. Some non-book sites that I thought were really cool, too.
Darla,
You're speaking up right along with me - shining your light as brightly as I shine mine. Believe me, I'm leaning on you!
Everyone,
I hope that if you read the book, it sits well with you, and that if you think it will help someone, you'll pass it on. (Tara Taylor Quinn 3:57pm April 19, 2011)
Kudos to you on taking such an amazing step. (Athena Da Rosa 4:17pm April 19, 2011)
I'd love to win and read a true romance story... (Leanna Morris 4:20pm April 19, 2011)
Would love to win, this sounds like a great read! (Brenda Rupp 4:22pm April 19, 2011)
Keep up the good work. (Deb Pelletier 4:30pm April 19, 2011)
Thabks for this heartfelt post. Wishing you all the best of happiness and success. (Sharon Berger 4:31pm April 19, 2011)
What a brave woman you are. Thanks so much for sharing your amazing story. (G S Moch 4:34pm April 19, 2011)
I think that it's wonderful that you are speaking out from a personal position to those who need to hear that they are not the only one facing this situation. Kudos to you and to Tim for standing with you. I only hope that someone who is encouraged by your outreach will take that next step and maybe let you know personally that it all started with you. Thanks for putting your self & story out there. There is too much silence on this. (Cate Sparks 4:36pm April 19, 2011)
50 stop blog tour actually sounds like fun. Not to you perhaps. (Mary Preston 4:49pm April 19, 2011)
Thanks for addressing this problem. I've been close enough to know how difficult it can be to escape, and am so happy you did. This sounds like a must-read book. (Shirley Nienkark 4:55pm April 19, 2011)
Sounds like a really great story. This sounds like it would be a really emotional read. (June A, Manning 5:32pm April 19, 2011)
I have been blessed tonever be in aviolent relationship and I am eternally grateful. (MaryEllen Hanneman 6:40pm April 19, 2011)
I hate the way people feel they have to hide the abuse. They feel that keeping a family intact is work the bruises, fists, burns, kiscks and emotional trauma as well. (Christina Harrison 6:50pm April 19, 2011)
A reality-based romance, wow, that's different. It sounds like an interesting book. (Michelle Fidler 8:10pm April 19, 2011)
Thank heaven for second marriages. We lean that there are caring and loving people who never have to raise their fists or voices to get a point across. (Jd Simm 8:12pm April 19, 2011)
This story may help so many people! Thank you, (Lisa Garrett 8:35pm April 19, 2011)
I can't wait to read this book. Thank you for sharing your story. (Wilma Frana 8:37pm April 19, 2011)
Thank you for sharing this story. I would love to read this. (Beth Melito 9:11pm April 19, 2011)
It takes alot of courage to share such a personal story about your life. Can't wait to read this book. (Cheryl English 9:12pm April 19, 2011)
We just had a case of domestic abuse across the street from us; I never even knew or heard anything going on and then one day cops are there arresting the husband. A young woman with an 18 month old baby and a family ruined! (Diane Sadler 10:30pm April 19, 2011)
If it wasn't for the kindness of some strangers, I wouldn't have known how to get through my day -- that was years ago, when I was married. I spent years in a horrible cycle, and years dealing with its aftermath. It was looking at my children, the need to protect them, that got stronger within me and gave me the strength and courage to get away. Years later he still trys to abuse in whatever way he can, my children and I suffer from PTSD, but through it all every day is a blessing, we are together and alive, we are respected and happy. The best thing I think - talk to people you think are abused, don't allow them to continue to be isolated, feel alone, don't judge- listen, and when you have items around the house - donate them to a woman's shelter -- toys, books, clothes, shoes, linens help too. Thank you for your story and a chance to share a little of mine. (Carla Carlson 10:55pm April 19, 2011)
The book is already doing good in the world, as evidenced by these posts!!
I had a conversation with a student today that took an unexpected turn, and because of the honesty of the book and your posts, I heard what she was saying in a different way than I would have before..... we talked as far as she could go, then recommended she head to the bookstore for your book, the NDVH card in hand! Thanks not only for telling your story but for helping us learn to listen as well. (Lynda Kachurek 11:09pm April 19, 2011)
It's great that you have shared your story. (Robin Daily 11:21pm April 19, 2011)
I was never truly abused in my life and I'm very thankful for that. I can only imagine very imperfectly what such a life is like, but I think it's awe inspiring that you and your husband have volunteered to present your story to all the women who are able to read it. I can hardly wait to read it. Do you have any special e-mail that can be sent out to groups caring for abused women and children to alert them to this book, so that other women who are in such situations may benefit from your experience? (Sigrun Schulz 1:10am April 20, 2011)
Wow, thanks everyone for the great response!!
Mary, the blog tour actually is a lot of fun. It's a lot of work, too, but well worth the time spent. We're bringing women together in a bond of strength that can make a real life difference in some lives.
To those of you who've never suffered abuse, thank you so much for speaking out. Once you've been there, it seems normal and it's so so good, so heartening to hear that there really are women who go through their whole lives not as physically strong as men, but still safe. I am so thankful for Tim. His gentleness makes him the strongest man I've ever known.
Christina,
I hate the silence, too. I wish there was a way to give voice to every single woman and child who suffer. Sometimes speaking out seems scarier than the abuse itself, because there is that fear that speaking out will increase the level of abuse. In the end, of course, nothing is worse than a life lived in fear and retribution.
JD,
I'm with you completely.
Diane,
The good thing is, she got out while she was still young, and before the child grew up with the abuse. I am very thankful for that, at least. I hope and pray she has all the help and support she needs to stay out and to eventually find a healthy, loving relationship.
Carla,
Thank you so much for sharing. I'm really not alone out here. There are so many of us who can band together to make the world more aware so that more of those still living in silence can be reached. I am very very thankful that you are out and free and that you are HAPPY. That's the key point. There really IS happiness on the other side. It doesn't ever seem possible when you are living in the darkness.
Lynda,
I read this to Tim and he said - 'you have your one.' The very first conversation we had with the editor on this book, she ended the conversation with the one line that made my decision to write this book. She said, 'if we even help one woman, we've done (Tara Taylor Quinn 7:11am April 20, 2011)
The mental abuse can be equally as bad as the physical. My best friend didn't survive the mental abuse. It's been three years now and I still can't understand how such a strong person could have been caught in this. I guess the years of mental abuse finally dragged her down. (Heather Pearson 12:47pm April 20, 2011)
Speaking out or being vocal brings on a lot of fear and yet can make you stronger. (Betty Miles 5:40pm April 20, 2011)
Tara and Tim, Thanks for helping out with a cause which touches many families and helps stop the spread of domestic violence. (Alyson Widen 8:14pm April 20, 2011)
I passed on information last week and will follow-up with my friend to see if she can have some safe place to call home. I looked up the local phone number and gave her a page printed off the internet. (Alyson Widen 8:19pm April 20, 2011)
Heather,
I sometimes think the mental abuse is the most insidious because there is nothing obvious to point at - no bruise or breaks that can be quantified. For me, the mental abuse was the worst. It plays with your ability to trust your own mind.
Betty,
I agree. Taking a stand makes you a lot stronger than enduring does.
Alyson,
I am SO glad to hear that you're helping you're friend. Please don't give up on her. It could be a long haul. If the local place doesn't work, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 800-799-7233, they'll find the closest place to your friend. (Tara Taylor Quinn 7:10am April 21, 2011)
I think you will definitely make a difference with this book. Thank you! (Lisa Garrett 7:27am May 19, 2011)
(Kaelee/Linda Esau 9:46am May 19, 2011)
Tara and Tim ~ I don't know how you manage to find something fresh to talk about but you do. I think you are going to find that you have made a difference in a lot of lives. However you cannot expect to reach everyone. Life doesn't work that way. Just help those you can and they will go on to help others hopefully. Tara you have been so brave in speaking out that others will surely follow and the ripples will go on and on. (Kaelee/Linda Esau 9:51am May 19, 2011)
I'm sure that this book is one where a person reads it and tells two friends and they tell two friends, and so it goes on. The story is important in today's society, since things are so out of control, and it's time that things were reigned in again. Nobody has the right to take control over another person, regardless of their sex! Your story is important, and I hope that more and more people read your book and find the way to seek help in some way. Thank you for not only writing the book, but for caring so much about the welfare of others, since this happens to both sexes, although the majority are women. I am anxious to get my hands on your book. Having limited funds makes it hard for me to run to the store to buy all the books that I want to read, so I'll have to wait until I see it at the library. Thank you again. (Peggy Roberson 9:53am May 19, 2011)
i want to say thank you for doing something to help all of the families that this is happening to. even if the children in the family are never physically harmed it can do lasting damage to them to grow up in this kind of enviroment and the mothers of the children are just as helpless to change it as the children are. so again thank you from the bottom of my heart. i will be honored to help spread the word about this book and hopefully someday we will no longer here the words victim of domestic violence. (Tammy Ramey 10:18am May 19, 2011)
I would love to read this book. I grew up in an abusive household where my mother was being beaten all of the time and I never understood why she didn't just leave, I still don't understand it. (Michelle Downing 10:32am May 19, 2011)
I was in an abusive relationship..it took me a couple years to leave and I don't know why it took so long now..I was around 19 yrs old and afraid, but I didn't want to tell anyone either..so I would love to read this book..Thank you (Leisa Prater 12:06pm May 19, 2011)
sounds like a book i'd enjoy, thanks (Julie Barett 12:12pm May 19, 2011)
I am going to Amazon today! Blessings, Marjorie (Marjorie Carmony 12:18pm May 19, 2011)
Kudos to you for touching such a controversial subject. We have all been touched by DV one way or another and it is always a difficult one to address. If you give even one person the strength to stand up and seek protection in a violent situation it's a success in my book. Good luck and happy writing! (Tracie Travis 12:36pm May 19, 2011)
Thank you for having the courage to tell your story! I think it's true that we all know women who have experienced domestic abuse. Letting them know they are not alone is a powerful thing! (Marguerite Guinn 12:44pm May 19, 2011)
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR PASSIONATE DETERMINATION TO HELP OTHERS IN PAIN..I WOULD LOVE TO WIN IT! (Silvana Moscato 12:45pm May 19, 2011)
Good luck with the book. I think the personal nature of the story will hopefully help a lot of women in similar situations. (Pam Howell 12:47pm May 19, 2011)
Hi Tara and Tim!
I was here earlier, but the post today touched me and I needed to step away. Thank you for taking the reader's question so seriously and continuing to think about it. I would imagine that the reader was satisfied with the response you provided, maybe still thinking about it and, like you, not really knowing how you could possible know. Lots of speculation. On behalf of those who aren't ready to walk through the door just yet, but now may be more aware that it can be done, that there is hope, that there are resources - thank you for taking the journey.
Hope all is well and no more trips to the ER! (Karen Cherubino 1:05pm May 19, 2011)
By speaking out, time after time, you are making a difference. You may not see it today or tomorrow but your words and those of Tim's are taking hold in the minds of people. You both are planting seeds and the results will astound and humble you. Keep doing what your doing. (Maude Allen 1:20pm May 19, 2011)
Thank you for sharing this with all of us! (Colleen Conklin 1:37pm May 19, 2011)
Tara, I agree with the poster near the top, I am just amazed that you're not all articled and talked out but yet you keep on surprising us by coming up with fresh articles everyday. I guess that's part of what makes you such a great author. Thank you for keeping the fire burning
Deb (Debbie Haupt 2:23pm May 19, 2011)
Wow Tara, you hit on some hard topics. Why does a person put up with being abused? Why did they not scream their anger at being mistreated to the police, family, friends and anyone else who could help. Why the low self esteem that comes with abuse and fear to leave it? You put it all together in this book and it will help many. Thank you. (Rosemary Simm 3:10pm May 19, 2011)
I love positive books, the real world is violent enought leave me reading something nice. (MaryEllen Hanneman 3:12pm May 19, 2011)
This sounds like a very good book, I can't wait to read it. (Wilma Frana 4:17pm May 19, 2011)
I would love to give your book to my daughter who is currently separated from her husband for the same reason - nothing too horrible yet but more than enough amd his anger issues have progressed. She still thinks he is her friend! It really does help to know that others have the same problems and how there is hope for the future. Thank you! (Jeanne Sheats 4:19pm May 19, 2011)
IT HAPPENED ON MAPLE STREET is already on my list. An important read. (Mary Preston 4:38pm May 19, 2011)
I think domestic violence is an important social issue and the more exposure it gets the better. (Mona Garg 5:12pm May 19, 2011)
I am so thankful and blessed to have never been in a violent relationship. I can't imagine. (Billie Deese 5:24pm May 19, 2011)
I love the mission that you and Tim are on and all I can say is keep up the good work both of you. Looking forward to reading It Happened On Maple Street, sounds like such a good read! (Shirley Younger 5:24pm May 19, 2011)
Jeanne,
Your daughter sounds like me - the book starts out when I was young. When I was first being violated I, too, believed he was my friend. He told me many many times that no one else would love me. Or love me like he did. That's how they control. If your daughter does read the book, she'll get that message loud and clear. I will keep both of you in my heart and pray for the best for her.
Karen,
The question is deep inside of me, too. I think it was put there to keep up my strength! To continue the push.
Kaelee,
We found that if we just sit down and talk to you all, rather than trying to find something to write about, there's always something more to say!
Peggy,
Thank you for your words! I hope you find the book.
Tammy,
Your hope is ours. And I, too, cry for the children. I can hear their cries. That cry will never stop for me as it is personal to me as well.
Michelle D,
This book was written for you. I hope if you do read it you will at least find some measure of understanding which might be able to bring some peace.
Leisa,
I was there. Your same age. I am so glad to hear that you got out - though I know that the demons dont ever go completely away I hope you have found love and happiness.
Maude and all,
THANK YOU so much for the encouragment and well wishes. Tim and I are going through every single comment together, just didn't want to clog this post with a bunch of replies saying thank you. We mean them to each and every one of you.
Deb H.,
We look for you everyday! I hope our paths cross in the physical world someday!
Mary and everyone who's said they are getting the book, PLEASE let us know, and more importantly let others know, what you think of it so we can keep this chain going.
Rosemary,
It sounds like you've already read the book!
All,
We'll be back later tonight. Going in to a booksigning right now! (Tara Taylor Quinn 6:15pm May 19, 2011)
Would love to read this book, my mother was a very violent person to us kids. (Frances Namuth 6:16pm May 19, 2011)
I am so looking forward to reading this book, it has hooked me already. It is so important that we really look at domestic violence and I'm so glad the laws have changed. I'm in my 60s and I remember when they did nothing for the women but told the men to leave, big help right? (Joyce Bruner 6:18pm May 19, 2011)
Kudos to writing on a sensitive subject. This is a topic that must be addressed and a section of society that we must not ignore. (Edwina Cowgill 6:36pm May 19, 2011)
I'm glad to see this topic addressed. It takes guts and sensitivity to write about it. Good for you. (Pamela Stewart 6:39pm May 19, 2011)
Looks like a great read!!! Pat Braden (Patricia Braden 8:19pm May 19, 2011)
I have recommended this book for my book club - I can't wait to read this - It touches close to my own personal story. Great job for getting out there and sharing yours, helping others. (Carla Carlson 9:09pm May 19, 2011)
It's so important to get this subject out there for discussion with the hope that it will help anyone in the situation. (Diane Sallans 9:44pm May 19, 2011)
I'm not commenting to win, but I want you and Tim to know that any method to bring mor light to this topic is important. Anything that helps just one person to understanding the complex issues is helpful. If it only helps one or two, it is worth it. Seeing it in a 'different' way may make is more visible to some. Thank you for your courage in taking your past and making it something that may help one or two see the truth about their lives. Not everyone has the ability and the wherewithall to be able to do this task. You and Time are to be commended. Thanks again for those who may be unable to say this to you. (Cate Sparks 9:58pm May 19, 2011)
Enjoyed reading your blog. This is a subject so many women try to keep hidden. (Sheila True 10:45pm May 19, 2011)
I hope this helps a lot of women! (Robin Daily 11:26pm May 19, 2011)
I would love to read your book,thank you for sharing it with us. I was in a abusive relationship for 7 years,I still don't understand why I stayed that long. (Linda Hall 11:31pm May 19, 2011)
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