Freedom From The Lie – The Truth About Domestic Violence Book By Joan O’Neill
DISCLOSURE – THIS ITEM WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW. ALL THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ARE THE REVIEWER’S OWN.
Reviewed by Laura B
Relationships ― we all think that we know what these look like! But what can happen when they descend into violence, control or coercion?
Joan O Neill is a mum of two from Ireland, who has written from the heart – sharing factual, support and information within her book; based on her own personal experiences of the harrowing effect of domestic violence and its far reaching effects on all family members.
O Neil’s book provides an excellent and accessible introduction to domestic violence and domestic abuse as she guides you through the stages and processes that you potentially may experience if you too, are living in a false sense of reality, with the author supporting you to change your mindset and find your own path to “Freedom from the Lie”.
The book comprises of a foreword from Danielle Serpico (Author of the Blackbelt Mastermind) echoing O Neil’s message ‘you are worth fighting for’.
There are 19 concise chapters taking you from ‘Part One – Recognition’ through to Part – Two – Freedom’, alongside some poems and positive affirmations and a few resource pages.
In my opinion the book would also be a great tool for professionals to gain insight from a personal viewpoint.
“Freedom from the Lie – The Truth About Domestic Violence” is a beautiful book of support and encouragement aimed at the reader who may be experiencing similar behaviours from their partner, and encouraging them not to give up. I felt it was helpful that the book has positive affirmations documented throughout the chapters – such as “Every day is a new opportunity to claim your freedom” or “I am gaining confidence every day”. The reader can then choose to repeat these words to themselves or write them out on a piece of paper to use as a ‘mantra’ as they move through the changes that they may need to make. As well as these helpful phrases there are many thoughtful guidance tips.
The book is written with such compassion, care, understanding, hope and practical advice. O Neill’s style of writing certainly offers great strength and support to anyone on their path to independence, she has a warmth that generally is not conveyed within this genre of books.
This enlightening book provides the reader with a beacon of hope, providing survivors, families, and professionals with practical information and support.
Within the Book:
Recognition: The first half of the book shares information about domestic abuse, violation of self, self worth, independence, courage/weakness, belief systems and changing them, ripple effect, pouring from an empty cup and beginning of the end.
Freedom: Part two explores a mind map, knowledge is power, dealing with depression and anxiety, healthy living; looking after self, financial freedom, emotional co-dependence, fear of change, building self-esteem, goals and spiritual growth.
As well as the pages at the back of the book that list local resources that cover Ireland (adding a list of UK resources would also benefit readers outside of Ireland).
This is a thorough and compassionate book that delves below the surface, providing consolation, direction, and a road to recovery for people who have experienced domestic abuse. It’s time to break the quiet and reclaim your life!!
It’s a gentle and easy read that you can either read within a few hours or ‘dip in and out’ as time allows.
Rating: 5/5
RRP: Available from Amazon for £12.51 here.