Introduction
Surviving Heartbreak Valley is a true, intimately detailed account of a certain period of my life: it tells of my children’s murder.
With great difficulty, I’ve written it to give a realistic account of what happened, how it happened, and possibly why it happened.
Readers who have never experienced or witnessed domestic abuse or stalking may easily conclude, “I wouldn’t take that! I would have gotten away. She should have …”
It’s easy to be judge and jury when it’s not you who is frightened for your life and the lives of people who are dear to you! I ask you to bear that in mind as you travel this valley of heartbreak with me.
It is my hope this book will capture the attention of a widespread audience, including those who read only romance and other fiction. Believe me, domestic violence and stalking happen in all walks of life. It is not unlikely that, even if you yourself are not a victim, you may know someone who is, whether or not you realize it.
I want every sufferer of domestic abuse and stalking to know what happened to me. It is my hope victims will be able to use my story and this book as a tool to empower them in their personal quest to obtain freedom from these horrifying life crippling crimes.
This narrative is for adults. Please be advised there are scenes of quite graphic sex and violence. I am aware this explicitness may be a turnoff to some, and I regret that. I did consider toning it down but, with all due respect, I’ve decided to include it in the desire that it add urgency to the achievement of awareness of the domestic horror taking place in America and around the world, and urgency to galvanize of a crusade to prevent it.
As you read these words, thousands of people are undergoing this torture, and a number will be killed before you finish the book. Every hour in the United States three or more women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends. If the forthrightness of my descriptions contributes to the saving of even one life, I will be vindicated.
