To say it’s surreal to have my short story The Calm Before the Storm come light is an understatement. The vision for this story came to me months ago. when I was thinking of a way to raise money for Domestic Abuse. This is a cause that is very near to my heart.
After a few phone calls I decided I needed to look no further than my own back yard. I live near Buffalo, New York and we have a wonderful woman’s shelter called Haven House that has helped countess woman and children get back on their feet.
Today, I'm spending time going through my closet and the closet of my girls to find clothes to donate to Haven House, I'll also take my daughters to the Dollar Store and we'll purchase some basic toiletries to donate also.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
I will donate 100% of the proceeds from The Calm Before the Storm in October to my local woman's shelter, and 50% for the life of the book.
Here are some alarming Domestic Violence Statistics
§ Every 9 seconds in the US a woman is assaulted or beaten.
§ Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women—more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.
§ Nearly 1 in 5 teenage girls who have been in a relationship said a boyfriend threatened violence or self-harm if presented with a breakup.
§ Every day in the US, more than three women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends.
If you're in an abusive relationship or know someone that is please get help by calling the hotline.
National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−SAFE (7233) or TTY 1−800−787−3224
I urge you NOT to look the other way, but to stand up and do something. Let your voice be heard! Together we can make a difference!
~The Calm Before the Storm~
The last two years of Erica Bloom’s life have been spent looking over her shoulder. Sawyer Marsh promised the day she filed for divorce and left him, that if he couldn't have her no one would. Even though Sawyer hasn’t contacted her in two years she’s still feared for her life. She remembers all too well the nightmare their marriage was and what it felt to be on the receiving end of his wrath.
The news of Sawyer’s engagement allows Erica to finally let her guard
down and enjoy her new life and budding relationship with Brock Maxwell.
While away relaxing at Brock’s vacation home on the Willow Lake, the past
comes back to haunt her. Were the past few years just the calm before the
storm?
Excerpt:
Erica picked it up and smiled when she saw it was Joann
calling.
“Hey, Joann.”
“Hi, Erica. You busy?”
“No, not at all. I was just reading the paper.”
“Did you hear the news about Sawyer?”
Erica stood up. Chills
ran down her spine at the mention of his name. “What news?” she replied, just
above a whisper.
“He’s getting married.”
The words stunned her.
“Erica, are you still there?” Joann asked.
She took a deep breath, trying to calm down so she could
respond.
“How do you know?” she managed to stammer. So many feelings were
flowing through her body as she paced the floor. They ranged from fear to
relief. Was he truly moving on?
“Tim ran into his cousin at the hardware store. He said
they’re getting married in a few months.”
“Wow.” Erica breathed out.
“Are you okay?”
“Yes. This is good news. He’s moved on. Maybe I can stop
looking over my shoulder every time I go out. Do you know who she is?”
“No. From what I understand, some woman he met while on a
business trip and Sawyer’s cousin
mentioned that she’s much younger.”
“The poor girl doesn’t know what she’s getting herself into.
I feel for her because I know all of his tricks. He’s sexy and charming in the
beginning and you’re so over the top in love with him. You marry him and get so caught up in the
fairytale you believe is your life, until one day he changes into the man he
truly is. A monster,” Erica stoically stated.
“Erica, I know you went through hell with him, but it’s been
two years. You have a terrific man in your life. I think it’s time you let go
of the past and live again.”
Erica sank down on the couch. She felt like she was hit by a
freight train. “I have a lot to think
about. I’ll call you tomorrow.”
“Let’s get together soon.”
“Sounds great.”
“Erica, relax. The nightmare is finally over.” Her friend
reassured her.
“Bye, Joann.” Erica ended the call and stared into space. Could it be that easy? Am I honestly free
from that man once and for all?
Watch the Book Trailer:
Things you can do to make a difference:
Buy the Calm Before the Storm Amazon Buy Link
Support your local woman’s shelter by donating
money, clothes, and basic toiletries.
End the
Silence on Domestic Violence Dr Phil’s Site
A few Lyrics from one of my Favorite songs, Black Eyes, Blue Tears by Shania Twain
Black
eyes, I don't need 'em
Blue tears, gimme freedom
Positively never goin' back
I won't live where things are so out of whack
No more rollin' with the punches
No more usin' or abusin'
I'd rather die standing
Than live on my knees
Begging please-no more
Definitley found my self esteem
Finally-I'm forever free to dream
No more cryin' in the corner
No excuses-no more bruises
It's all behind me, they'll never find me now
Find your self-esteem and be forever free to dream
Blue tears, gimme freedom
Positively never goin' back
I won't live where things are so out of whack
No more rollin' with the punches
No more usin' or abusin'
I'd rather die standing
Than live on my knees
Begging please-no more
Definitley found my self esteem
Finally-I'm forever free to dream
No more cryin' in the corner
No excuses-no more bruises
It's all behind me, they'll never find me now
Find your self-esteem and be forever free to dream
What a great post and a great cause, Tamaria. I wish you tons of luck with your sales.
ReplyDeleteThank you!
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