A myth-shattering, inspiring book that combines research, reportage, and memoir to explore the growing phenomenon of estrangement from toxic relatives--showing it not as a tragedy, but as an empowering and effective solution to the heartbreak of family abuse.

After decades of enduring his mother's physical and psychological torment, after years of trying in vain to set boundaries, Eamon Dolan took a radical step: he cut his mother out of his life. No more phone calls, no more visits, no more contact. Parting with his abuser gave him immediate relief and set him on a path toward freedom, confidence, and joy like none he had ever felt before.

In The Power of Parting, Dolan has written the book he wishes he'd had when he was struggling to free himself from his mother's abuse. In the process, he discovered how widespread estrangement really is. At least 27 percent of Americans are estranged from a parent, sibling, or other family member. He also learned why so much stigma surrounds this common--and often lifesaving--phenomenon. Even among therapists--the professionals who would seem most attuned to the pain relatives can inflict--there's a bias toward reconciliation, when millions of their patients need instead to escape their abusers' grip. Estrangement, Dolan realized, should be understood and embraced, not shrouded in shame.

Drawing on his own suffering and healing, as well as experts' advice and the testimony of other courageous survivors, Dolan first explains why abuse is much different and more prevalent than we may think, how it harms us in childhood and beyond, and why limiting or eliminating contact might be our best possible choice. Then, he walks readers through the steps of a successful, positive estrangement: how to take crucial time for yourself; how to make sure no one can gaslight you into minimizing or forgetting; how to set rules for your abuser and--if they can't or won't respect your limits--how to end a toxic relationship. He also offers valuable counsel on how to ease the guilt and grief that often accompany parting, and how to break the cycle of abuse that was likely passed down to you through many generations.

With a convincing blend of clarity and empathy, Dolan encourages others to do what he ultimately did for himself: determine whether the people in your life treat you with the care and concern you deserve--and part ways with them if they don't.

Sweet Harmony Montgomery should still be alive. But now she is the face of a brutal homicide and her murder has left her half-brother, Jamison, adopted by two loving dads, grieving the loss of the sister he loved so much. And while Jamison often tells his dads, I wish she wouldn't have died, he is unaware of the public outrage and controversy swirling around the circumstances of her death. When a court in Massachusetts granted custody of Harmony to her violent father who was living in New Hampshire, Harmony's tragic fate was sealed. In chilling detail at the murder trial, his own wife described the brutal beating that ended Harmony's life. When she took her last breath, her malevolent father desecrated her remains in unspeakable ways. The truth is that governmental officials, courts, and lawyers in Massachusetts will do everything they can to crush Harmony's voice, even in death, to protect the secrets and reckless indifference of those who were supposed to protect her. The dangerously defective child protection system in Massachusetts made sure Harmony was simply expendable. It's only a matter of time before another child dies.

When people enter into a new relationship, they do not go looking for the rotten apple at the bottom of the barrel. However, countless individuals repeatedly find themselves in these hurtful situations and do not understand why.

A recent Facebook survey of people who self-identify as being empathic revealed a startling insight. Over 80% of the 1,300 respondents disclosed they had suffered from some form of abuse or neglect during their childhood. Organizations, such as the American Psychiatric Association, have also identified early childhood trauma as the cause for the development of severe narcissist tendencies.

An interesting dynamic often develops between the loving, compassionate, and often selfless empaths and those willing to take from them, the self-serving narcissists. Both look to heal their inner wounds in the arms of the other.

The Dysfunctional Dance Of The Empath And Narcissist takes an in-depth look at the unconscious patterns that keep individuals trapped in cycles of abusive relationships. It endeavors to raise people's awareness to the ingrained programming going on deep inside and help the reader understand how they keep getting into these situations in the first place.

Regardless of what happened to a person when they were young, they have the power to redefine themselves and their life. It is possible to break free of these destructive, negative patterns and finally experience the loving, healthy relationship they have always desired.

A survivor or childhood abuse, herself, Dr. Rita Louise has emerged as a gifted empath and talented clairvoyant medical intuitive. She is a Naturopathic physician and the founder of the Institute Of Applied Energetics that trains students in the art of medical intuition, intuitive counseling, and energy medicine. She has authored six books and produced several feature-length and short films. Dr. Louise has appeared on radio, television and in movies and has lectured on health and healing, ghosts, intuition, ancient mysteries and the paranormal. Her books and articles have worldwide circulation.

Child abuse, understandably one of the world's most frowned upon criminal acts, poses a seemingly ever-increasing problem in today's society. Every year between 500 million and 1.5 billion children, around the world, experience some form of abuse, maltreatment, or neglect. Additionally, somewhere on the globe, an innocent young girl is killed every ten minutes due to an act of child abuse. Due to the massive profit they generate, crimes such as child pornography and sex trafficking are on the rise. The number of children who are consistently maltreated, sometimes on a daily basis, is staggering and unacceptable. It is the mission of this book to inform individuals about child abuse and its forms, methods, effects, and signs. If more individuals were conscious of the turmoil faced by children all over the world, possible on their street, the war against child abuse would make great strides toward progress. It is my hope that this book will provide you with the knowledge necessary to identify cases and take proper action by seeking the appropriate help.

Brace yourself for an extraordinary story that speaks to the experiences of those who have faced physical, emotional, and psychological childhood abuse and neglect. For those with dreams deferred by overwhelming challenges and obstacles, this powerful narrative of resilience and perseverance will serve as a lighthouse and inspiration to all who have lost hope. Sharing the intimate details of surviving unimaginable child abuse, which would be deemed criminal in modern times, the author exemplifies how a determined spirit can overcome the most dire circumstances.

Prepare to be captivated and inspired while cheering her on as she embarks on her journey to freedom. As the author shares her most painful moments and beautiful memories, you will laugh, cry, and cheer her on as she describes how she found hope and the redemptive power of true love. Look for this story on the big screen, as it clearly tells the story of how life's darkest moments can be overshadowed when passion, resilience, and tenacity overtake fear. You will be inspired never to doubt yourself and to hold on to the dream that dwells in your soul.

Follow her journey, which takes her from a dark world of cruelty into the competitive world of producing national championship purebred Dorset sheep. She is, indeed, a shepherdess beaten but never broken.

Are you looking to rise above your past and live a life full of joy?

Sad. Confused. Alone. Many survivors of childhood sexual abuse are haunted by the pain of their past, with their best kept secret buried in the graveyard. Yet no matter how deeply it's hidden, the silent scars continue to resurface. You're not alone. Amber Nicole Hayes shares her own riveting story and shows that no matter how deep the scars, healing and happiness are possible.

In the Obedient Daughter, you will discover a raw and compelling memoir that offers hope for those who have experienced the profound trauma of childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, and the emotional rollercoaster of growing up with a parent suffering from borderline or narcissistic personality disorder. Amber's story is one of strength, survival, and sheer determination to break free from a troubled past and live a life full of joy and satisfaction.

At a young age, Amber finds herself in dangerous situations, with desperate attempts to escape her abusive life. As she navigates life, empty promises, toxic relationships, and emotional abuse bring her to a place where all hope feels lost. That is, until she embarks on a powerful personal journey towards healing.

Discover How This Book Will Kickstart Your Healing Journey:

Ignite Your Healing: This empowering resource offers unwavering support to help you break free from the chains of generational trauma.Reclaim Your Life: Helps those who have survived childhood sexual abuse, domestic abuse, and dealt with a parent or loved one who has borderline personality or narcissistic personality disorder. Find a Sense of Self-Worth: Offers inspiration for those who have trauma, PTSD, complex PTSD, or who have lost a parent.Tune in to Your Body: Safely navigate unhealed trauma by learning to listen to your emotions and cultivate self-compassion.

This immensely powerful book proves that despite life's hardships, it's never too late to overcome trauma, regain your power, and live the life you've always dreamed of.

Do you have a SECRET? If so - come on in! Meet the Family of Secrets and explore their mindful home. This inviting story will help children understand the difference between SAFE and UNSAFE secrets in an age-appropriate way. Perfect for Pre-K through Elementary ages (4 - 8 years).

With a rhyming storyline, colorful illustrations, and thoughtfully designed characters, our book captivates young readers while delivering an important message. We use a compassionate and family-friendly approach to begin the basic conversations surrounding BODY SAFETY.

Adults may find conversations about child sexual abuse prevention challenging and uncomfortable. They might wonder Where do I begin?

As a Beginner's Book to Body Safety, this book will serve as a tool for parents, caregivers, educators, counselors, and health care professionals navigating these conversations. Allow this resource to create peace of mind for parents, as it builds confidence, fosters open communication, encourages seeking support, and promotes child safety and healing.

Conversation Starters for:

• Body Safety
• Safe and Unsafe Secrets
• Disclosure Empowerment
• Healthy Coping Skills & Healing
• Safe Adults & Support Systems

Let the Family of Secrets help you begin this mindful journey!

Have you been deeply hurt by your father?

Did the man who should have loved you, listened to you and protected you inflict traumas that still affect your life today?

Are you struggling every day to repair the damage that he has caused?

Being daughters raised by emotionally absent fathers is a difficult and lonely experience; you may have low self-esteem, suffer from anger and depression and feel that you have no value.

There are several ways in which fathers can be emotionally distant from their daughters: through divorce, work/careers, military service, addictions, serious physical or mental illness or death.

It is possible that these men are narcissists who have showered you with constant criticism and try to manipulate and control you. Or it may be that they were abusive to you or were simply old-fashioned fathers of few words and expressed what they wanted only with gestures.

Adult daughters of emotionally absent fathers always recognise that something is wrong, but overlook the devastating long-term effects that impact themselves, their romantic relationships, their friendships and their work or careers.

I recommend that you read this book if you recognise some of these attitudes in your father:

- Only your physical needs exist for them, not your emotional ones.

- They talk to you in a flat, uninterested tone of voice.

- They make cruelly critical comments.

- They do not listen to you or take an interest in your life.

- They never compliment you or celebrate your achievements.

- They never spend time alone with you.

- They rarely convey their affection to you with hugs or smiles.

- They are distracted when they are with you, by work, TV or their phone.

- They are addicted to alcohol or other substances.

- They spend money on unnecessary things before they meet your needs.

- They are unable to manage their emotions and express their feelings.

- They are defensive and unwilling to accept points of view other than their own.

- They blame you for their faults or mistakes.

- They do not take responsibility for their actions.

- They deny reality when you try to talk about their attitudes, making you feel crazy.

These are just some of the most common signs. In any family, the situation can be complex and varied.

The devastating effects of an emotionally absent father are not often talked about. The world needs to talk about these types of fathers!

You, on the other hand, may be experiencing the following:

- Anger and disappointment at not receiving the affection and support you wanted and should have received.

- Feeling unloved, inadequate and worthless.

- Loneliness, without the support of a network of loving family members.

- a misunderstanding of what has happened to you and what you feel.

In romantic relationships, women who grew up with absent fathers will try to reproduce the patterns they suffered in their past and will have difficulty forming lasting relationships by going for partners who do not value and respect them.

Is it possible to heal the invisible childhood wounds plagued by an emotionally absent father?

Fortunately, this manual contains methods to identify and interrupt dysfunctional patterns and cultivate new ones that are useful and tailored to you. It is important to do this for yourself, for your loved ones and, ultimately, for your children.

This book is written for you. It will help you!

Peter McLoughlin spent years believing the Leftist narrative, namely it was 'a racist myth' that organised Muslim groups in Britain and the Netherlands ('grooming gangs') were luring white schoolgirls into a life of prostitution. But in 2009 he first encountered people who said their children had been groomed like this. These informants had non-white people in their immediate and extended family, and were thus unlikely to be racists. So McLoughlin dug deeper and what he found shocked him: there were mounds of evidence that social workers, police officers, Muslim organisations, journalists and even some Members of Parliament must have known about these grooming gangs for decades, and they had turned a blind-eye to these crimes. He also came across references to incidents where any proof had since vanished. McLoughlin spent several years uncovering everything he could and documenting this scandal before the evidence disappeared. He demonstrates that the true nature of this grooming phenomenon was known about more than 20 years ago. While he was writing this book, Parliament was forced by rising anger in Britain to conduct its own low-key investigation. The eventual report concluded the grooming problem was basically in one town: Rotherham. Official reports finally admitted there were more than 1400 victims in this otherwise unremarkable town. McLoughlin argues the authorities will continue their cover-up of this scandal, with many thousands of new victims across the country every year. The criminal indicators in Rotherham are to be found in scores of towns across Britain. McLoughlin's book is an attempt to get the public to wake up, for them to demand civilised solutions, because if the social contract breaks down, people may turn to vigilante justice as the prostituting of schoolgirls continues unabated. The book documents the hidden abuse of Sikh victims by grooming gangs, and how Sikhs in Britain have already resorted to vigilante justice. The book exposes how political correctness was used to silence potential whistle-blowers, and how this grooming phenomenon demonstrates that multiculturalism does not work. Every layer of authority in the British state comes under detailed examination to expose their part in the scandal. McLoughlin leaves no stone unturned, and at 130,000 words in length, it is likely to be the most detailed critique of this scandal for years to come.

The Sunday Times and New York Times bestselling author of Damaged tells the true story of Donna, who came into foster care aged ten, having been abused, victimised and rejected by her family.

Donna had been in foster care with her two young brothers for three weeks when she is abruptly moved to Cathy's. When Donna arrives she is silent, withdrawn and walks with her shoulders hunched forward and her head down. Donna is clearly a very haunted child and refuses to interact with Cathy's children Adrian and Paula.

After patience and encouragement from Cathy, Donna slowly starts to talk and tells Cathy that she blames herself for her and her brothers being placed in care. The social services were aware that Donna and her brothers had been neglected by their alcoholic mother, but no one realised the extent of the abuse they were forced to suffer. The truth of the physical torment she was put through slowly emerges, and as Donna grows to trust Cathy she tells her how her mother used to make her wash herself with wire wool so that she could get rid of her skin colour as her mother was so ashamed that Donna was mixed race.

The psychological wounds caused by the bullying she received also start to resurface when Donna starts reenacting the ways she was treated at home by hitting and bullying Paula, so much so that Cathy can't let Donna out of her sight.

As the pressure begins to mount on Cathy to help this child, things start to get worse and Donna begins behaving in erratic ways, trashing her bedroom and being regularly abusive towards Cathy's children. Cathy begins to wonder if she can find a way to help this child or if Donna's scars run too deep.

Do you ever feel there is no one that loves you?

Do you find yourself lost in addictive behaviors that numb your emotional pain but do little to bring peace and joy?

As a victim of abandonment, verbal abuse, and sexual abuse, I struggled to find peace. But let me encourage you that there is hope. As you read, The Long Road To Thankful, I invite you to discover the freedom that I have found and find the courage to move out of the dark where hopelessness dwells. When you step into the light, you will discover that you are loved and have never been alone.

It's all about choices--their choices and your choices. Abuses and rejection by the ones who should love you most create pain. Looking at the ruins, what has been destroyed and applying the tools to rebuild takes time and tears but the end result is worth it. Working through the pain to the point of being able to forgive even the most horrible events is the only way to freedom and peace. You, too, can move from being broken and bleeding to being healed and whole!!! My story says it all. Born at the foot of Pikes Peak in Colorado, I now live in central Texas. I have been married for over 60 years and children and grandchildren bring much fun and excitement into my life. I sing and play the fiddle (it was a violin in Colorado) with my husband who plays guitar. My ride is a 2010 red Mustang convertible with a stick shift. I scrapbook, make cards, sew and work puzzles for fun but the hobby that brings me the most pleasure is people. Am very involved in a local church where I have the opportunity to teach and the joy of helping members find comfortable places to serve. My contact information is margierosecox@gmail.com I would love to hear from you--share in your successes or perhaps answer questions.

'A masterclass in understanding' ANNIE GRACE, author of This Naked Mind

Ten questions to ask yourself, right now:
* Do you have a sense that something is wrong, but you don't know what it is?
* Do you have a feeling that you are hollow inside, that you are empty or have a void within?
* Do you react badly to rejection?
* Do you often feel sad, unhappy or down for no obvious reason?
* Would you describe yourself as highly sensitive?
* Do you have problems with relationships and intimacy?
* Do you engage in addictive behavior - alcohol, drugs, gambling, shopping, food, sex, work, exercise?
* Do you have low self-esteem or self-worth - are you not 'good enough'?
* Do you have a sense of being numb to your feelings?
* Do you rarely experience true joy and happiness?

If you have answered 'yes' to most of these questions, there is a strong chance you have experienced emotional neglect or trauma as a child. An emotionally neglected child may struggle to form strong and secure attachments as an adult. They may feel hollow or empty, worthless (or overly important), judge themselves harshly and struggle with addictive tendencies - drinking, eating or exercising too much, for example. If this describes you, Heal Your Inner Child will change your life and give you back the love, compassion and authenticity you needed as a child, and deserve as an adult.

Former heavy drinker turned sobriety coach Simon Chapple is - like you - a survivor of childhood trauma. His unique brand of straight-talking, practical yet reflective and relatable advice has helped thousands of people quit drinking, and he can help you now to move on from childhood emotional neglect to a place of happiness free from past trauma. How to Heal Your Inner Child is a stepped and safe approach to confronting your past, with space for reflective and supportive strategies that will help you to foster self-compassion and break free from the destructive behaviors that have blighted your life. Clinically endorsed and verified by a psychotherapist, this deeply personal, unflinchingly honest exploration is designed to unlock your own epiphany and support you as you journey to a happier, less troubled and more authentic self.

It has been a long time since you have read a book with the sheer emotional impact of One Child. --New York Times

The true story of a tormented six-year-old and the brilliant teacher who reached out.

Six-year-old Sheila never spoke, she never cried, and her eyes were filled with hate. Abandoned on a highway by her mother, unwanted by her alcoholic father, Sheila was placed in a class for emotionally disturbed children after she committed an atrocious act of violence against another child.

Everyone said Sheila was lost forever, everyone except her teacher, Torey Hayden.

Torey fought to reach Sheila, to bring the abused child back from her secret nightmare, because beneath the rage, Torey saw in Sheila the spark of genius. And together they embarked on a wondrous journey--a journey gleaming with a child's joy at discovering a world filled with love and a journey sustained by a young teacher's inspiring bravery and devotion.

SO MANY QUESTIONS - WERE THERE ANY ANSWERS?

Rose existed in dark, painful confusion. Who was she? Was she a part of the human race? If so, why couldn't she be normal like other people? Why did she need so many beatings? Why was she so stupid? Why couldn't she remember her early childhood?

Almost half a century later, the darkness began to lift, and the mysteries of her childhood unfolded; liberating light pierced through the shadowy past, revealing horrific memories. This is a true story of redemption and healing from overwhelming trauma; a story of hope for those in despair.

This is for the men, women, teenagers, and children. This is for the abusers. This is for law enforcement and the failed systems. This is for anyone whose voice needs to be heard. For anyone who needs to find their strength to keep going. This is for you. A relatable story that sadly many of us have faced or may be in currently.

This is my story!

I'm breaking the silence to encourage others to do the same.

Don't give up. It does get better.

A heart-stopping story that highlights the failure of the agencies we trust to protect the most vulnerable among us-and a truth more compelling and powerful than we could imagine. Abuse reports from neighbors draw attention to twelve-year-old Alexey who runs away to hide in the woods. The local child protection agency sends the director of the children's home to visit Alexey and his younger sisters, Anastasia and Svetlana. But despite her compelling report the agency believes the denials of the adoptive mother and leaves the children in the abusive home. Knowing the horrible truth, the director faces one obstacle after another as she tries to find someone to protect the children from the unspeakable.

Dead Dog Road-a place where secrets are buried like the injured fighting dogs who are dumped there.

It was a day like any other, crystal blue sky and warm summer air, as young Nathan Spiteri walked into a change room at a familiar public swimming pool and experienced a turn of events that would alter his life forever.

In his powerful and deeply vulnerable memoir, Spiteri dives into the trauma of being brutally abused, groomed and manipulated by the actions of a vicious paedophile. It is a ''coming-of-age'' story, a tour-de-force that ushers the reader into the world of abuse, addiction, sex, drugs and violence.

In words poetic, as well as raw and real, Spiteri paints a stunning masterpiece of triumph over tragedy; a powerful canvas of self-discovery, therapeutic growth and self-love. Spiteri offers a cautionary tale for all parents who are raising children; and an anthem of survival for anyone who has suffered the difficulties of youth.

In our search for a better life, Toy Cars proves that love and healing are possible.

The No. 1 Sunday Times Bestseller.

At just eight years old, Jodie is violent, aggressive and extremely challenging. Five carers in four months have been unable to cope, but there is one last hope: Cathy Glass...

As Jodie begins to trust Cathy and make progress, shocking details about her past come to light. No one had noticed the glaring signs of abuse by those who were supposed to love her most.

One of Cathy's earliest and bestselling memoirs, Damaged is a heartbreaking story that proves just how valuable foster carers are for society's most vulnerable children.

*Damaged was originally published in 2007*