NORTH BEND - Local author Donna M. Kshir and author Sandra Potter of Michigan have united in outrage over what they call the domestic violence and child abuse epidemic.
Together they are now writing a series of books based on personal experiences, research and firsthand knowledge of the turmoil, trauma and life-long effects abuse can have on a life. Their goal is to properly educate the public, particularly children and young people, in an effort to help stop the violence.
What do you do when you are being brutally beaten, raped and living in constant fear? "Unnecessary Roughness: Til Death do us Part..." is a raw account of one woman's dramatic story of domestic violence.
The plot begins only two weeks into a marriage. Newlywed Danica began to see her relationship with Tyler in a whole new light. Tyler wasn't the same man he was before they married. She noticed there was something different about him. He was more controlling, desperate and hiding behind a mask of anger and rage.
Tyler soon began hitting Danica which in turn escalated into beatings. Danica was a pro at covering her bruises and marks by disguising them with make-up and clothing. Like others before her, she is faced with the fear of embarrassment.
Danica could never let her secret be known. Her story was finally revealed after a detailed account of the domestic violence was found in a journal in her attic.
The story takes the reader through the vicious cycle of abuse, shattered dreams, broken promises and the brutal reality of the effects domestic violence has.
The duo also has released "The Child Abuse Survivor Project," the first edition in their child abuse series.
The Child Abuse Survivor Project, a community social action project, is intended to help men, women and children who have been affected by child abuse by publishing real stories of abuse. These personal stories detail acts of extreme mental, emotional, physical and sexual childhood abuse and the overwhelming impact it has on the victims.
Both women stated they want to honor the strength, spirit and courage of abuse survivors by empowering them to speak out against the violence they have endured.
Their goal is to make this project one of healing, validation and inspiration to others and to give light to all abuse victims by letting them know they are not alone and that, together, those who care can and will make a difference.
Potter designed both book covers, and the two new books mark Kshir's first effort as a publisher.
The books are currently available at Lulu.com and they also are expected to be available soon through Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com. Books also may be ordered by mailing $26.43 per book (fee includes tax, shipping and handling) to Donna Kshir, P.O. Box 113, North Bend, Pa. 17760.
