Author gets high praise 14 January 2010 THURSDAY 4PM:

A harrowing tale of abuse penned by a Melton author has been endorsed by health professionals. Lisa Whenham-Bossy, from Eye Kettleby, wrote A Fine Line about her life suffering at the hands of an abuser for years before checking herself into a psychiatric unit. She hopes the book will help more people understand mental health problems and the treatment they receive. She recently met senior managers at NHS Leicestershire County and Rutland who will buy copies for front-line staff. The book, available from www.troubador.co.uk has also been endorsed by The British Psychological Society. Page 1 of 1 Last Updated: 14 January 2010 11:02 AM Source: Melton Times Location: Melton

ARTICLE BY THE BRITISH PSYCHOLOGY SOCIETY JANUARY 2010

Book success Well done to Lisa WB who has had amazing success with her first book ‘A Fine Line’. ‘A Fine Line’ is based on Lisa’s own story of suffering years of child abuse. The main character, Bridget, is persuaded to check herself into a psychiatric unit for what she thinks is a matter of weeks which turns into years as she unravels a sequence of appalling abuse blocked from her memory. Lisa explained: “The book has taken a long time to write and a lot of really hard work but I felt compelled to write it to increase understanding of people who suffer from mental health problems, the treatment they receive, and what life is like in a secure psychiatric unit." ‘A Fine Line’ has been reviewed well and Lisa hopes that books like this can help to raise awareness of the signals and patterns that come from suppressed abuses enabling people to access the support they need before things get worse.

 LEICESTER MERCURY ARTICLE MONDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2009 

The book took four years to write. She felt compelled to write it, she says, to increase understanding of people who suffer from mental health problems, the treatment they receive, and what life is like in a secure psychiatric unit. The eminent Professor Frederick Toates writes: “This is a courageous and moving story written by a courageous woman … a powerful lesson for those who live with, care and provide support for people with mental disturbance and those who administer health care systems.’’ Much of the book comprises accounts of her experiences, initially written down for the consultant and the staff looking after her in the psychiatric unit. “In the unit, I was encouraged to express what had happened to me. I couldn’t speak about what had happened to me, but I could write it down FOR YEARS, LISA WHENHAM BOSSY KEPT QUIET ABOUT SUFFERING FROM PHYSICAL AND SEXUAL ABUSE, THAT STARTED WHEN SHE WAS 12. SO WHERE DID SHE GET THE COURAGE TO WRITE A BOOK ABOUT IT? JOAN STEPHENS ASKED HER Experts in mental health have assured Lisa she should either be dead, on drugs or in prison. “Amazing’’ is their word for her. She herself knows she is lucky to be alive, having suffered physical and sexual abuse – including murder attempts – over a period of 20 years. Meeting her today in her home near Melton Mowbray, where she is surrounded by her beloved animals – they include rabbits, chipmunks, cockatiels, four cats, two dogs, a hamster, four rescued billy goats, some hens and ducks – this pretty woman with a ready sense of humour seems relaxed, chatting happily about her husband and children. It is only when you read A Fine Line, the book she has just published, that you realise the depths of the horrors she has undergone. Lisa Whenham Bossy suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and no wonder: the traumas of her past, some of which are recounted in the book, are so shattering that even her psychiatric consultant was shaken to the core when she revealed their full extent. Her book, published by Troubador, is sub-titled A Balance to Survive, which aptly describes how she coped with everything that happened to her. “I couldn’t speak about it, and still can’t, but I could write it down, which I did. “It was as if I was someone else entirely, and that’s what comes through in the book, and what has impressed people who have read it. ’’ She claims that many people on either side of the fine line of her title, both survivors and carers, are taken to their limits by the severe harm done by child abuse. Lisa was 12 when she was sexually assaulted by a family friend, whose parents treated her as one of their family. The friend had mental problems, too, and was later suicidal. “One of the most important things surrounding child abuse is that the child does not recognise or is aware that the abuse is happening. “They are groomed into a state where they perceive an unconditional love. The problem is that the love is not love and is certainly not unconditional. Any child is vulnerable and a child being abused has this vulnerability increased.’’ Later, as a 17 year old bank employee, Lisa was sexually and physically abused with appalling regularity by her employer – but she felt so secure in the bank environment where colleagues were friends, that she suffered in silence. She explains in the book that she coped with the worst moments by disassociating herself from what was happening. “It was as if I was up on the ceiling, looking down on it happening to someone else.’’ Her parents had no idea of what she was going through, as she always managed to hide the bloodstains on her clothes and body. Similarly, she was attacked “This is a courageous and moving story written by a courageous woman… a powerful lesson for those who live with, care and provide support for people with mental disturbance.’’ Prof Frederick Toates and raped by a relative by marriage, who eventually tried to kill her and himself saying: “If I can’t have you, no-one else will’’. This led to the serious car accident which caused her memory loss and subsequent treatment as psychiatric out-patient. During this time, like many abused children, she went into denial and suppressed her emotions. She met her Swiss husband through a dating agency. They had a romantic courtship and marriage, settled in Leicestershire, and had a son and a daughter, now 11 and 12. Patrick set up his own wine business and Lisa felt loved, relaxed and secure. That was when she began to suffer flashbacks and re-live past traumas. Eventually, she was sectioned and at one time admitted to a high security unit. “It felt like a cage, like being in a trap, with people having power over you all the time.’’ When she was out of control and desperate to escape, which was often, she self harmed, crashed through closed windows, ran away. She acknowledges now: “It was terrible for Patrick, as when I escaped he had no idea whether I was alive or dead. “But he stuck by me, brought up the children, who came to see me at weekends, and coped with everything. He has been wonderful throughout my illness.’’ She was discharged from the unit five years ago. Today, the times when she feels out of control are less frequent, though still intense. She has learned to cope with them, as have Patrick and close friends. She is on a 24-hour track, can phone her consultant in an emergency, and sees him fortnightly, with visits to her GP inbetween. She has embarked on an Open University degree in psychology, which she is enjoying, and is disappointed with herself if she does not gain merits and distinctions for her assignments. “The work has given me insights into what happened to me, and it keeps me busy – and keeping busy helps me to cope too. “I’m still having treatment, but we manage, and things are getting better – there is light at the end of the tunnel.’’ Writing the book has been a catharsis for Lisa. She is relieved to have completed it, pleased it has been well-received by family, friends and health professionals alike, and hopes it will bring more understanding about mental illness. Despite the agonies and traumas of her past she says: “The most painful part for me is the four years I missed out on my children. They were three and four when I was sectioned, and that to me is more painful than all the rest.’’ 􀁨 A FINE LINE, by Lisa WB , published by Troubador at £8.99, ISBN 978 1848761 544, is available from bookshops and Amazon, or from Lisa’s website: www.afineline-lisawb.co.uk

Tari 

This is a harrowing story and one that should be told. People speak freely about child abiuse nowadays but those two words whether on a newsaper on a TV screen do not even begin to describe the horror, torture, fear and destruction of a young life. in these circuimstacnes. 

I have read uyour wonderful book before when I was on authonomy with Stopne Relics and again the tears are streaming. 

Obviously the nurses at the hospital were not psycholgists and would not understand your first attempts at responding or trying to respond to treatment. 

I have a signed copy of Professor's Toate's book on Obsessived Compulsive Behaviour after attending one of his Uni seminars. 

This book was written with tears and is read with tears - a must for those who suffer or care for the suffering. 

Your book and sharing will surely help some soul who needs to reach out and know that soemone will take their hand - lifting them up out of the vale of tears.

Hugs and love,

Katy.xx

Hi,

I was moved to tears several times by your heartbreaking story, your candidness, honesty and spirit are to be admired, I don`t know if I could have bared my soul in such a way. But what I admired most was your message of hope, this wonderful piece of writing will I`m sure offer comfort to those people who have suffered the same fate as you did. Thank you for having the courage to share such a persponal account with us all...Backed with utter pleasure.

Good luck,

Cerys

Lisa-

I salute your courage to let the world know about your past.

This story is more than a narration of pysical and sexual abuse. This is a story of a true survivor who keeps fighting to change the past and abandon all those nightmares and dark memories. Reading your lines, I could really feel the emotion and the sensation of wearing your shoes how you were mistreated and violently abused by those people. I believe that this story is going to change the worldwide perception of children violence and abuse. Good luck to you and your book.

FLETCH

Dear Lisa

What can I say? 

Your candour and forthrightness take my breath away. I have all admiration for your courage. 

What many do not understand is that it takes real courage to *recover* from abuse. Coming to terms with it, functioning again as a whole person takes utter determination and a level of honesty and audacity that most can only imagine. Few are able to do it. Going under is easy. Most do not survive as you do. The accounts of what you had to endure are horrific. No one on this earth should have to endure what you did. But so many do and they move silently and secretly amongst us enduring their pain and despair. Psychology text books don't cut it. No one reads those (except the likes of you and me!) These stories need to be told. The cost of abuse in human suffering needs to be known. The abused need to know that there is hope in recovery. 

Thank you for telling your story. I hope it will act as an inspiration to other sufferers, as a beacon of hopefulness to those attempting recovery and a thorn in the sides of those who should be saying NO. Perpetrating abuse generally involves the silent collusion of those who have the power to stop it.

No one knows the extent of this problem. Statistics are unreliable as the abused rarely admit to their plight. According to the UN, in 2002, 223 MILLION sexual crimes took place against children. Who knows about the rest? 

It's a very brave work, Lisa and I wish you every success with it. My heart goes out to you. 

Geoffrey

Please bear with me as editing is an on going process, and I upload ,as each chapter has been corrected. I would also like to state a BIG THANK YOU to Lesley Stevens who is helping me, and to Mel Comley for her continuing support. I would appreciate any reader who has not looked at Impeding Justice by Mel Comley to add it to your w/list as it is a small way of trying to reciprocate her fantastic support. (It is also a very good read.)

Thank you to everyone who has backed and commented, it is appreciated.

Warmest wishes, Lisa

This is a harrowing story and one that should be told. People speak freely about child abiuse nowadays but those two words whether on a newsaper on a TV screen do not even begin to describe the horror, torture, fear and destruction of a young life. in these circuimstacnes. 

I have read uyour wonderful book before when I was on authonomy with Stopne Relics and again the tears are streaming. 

Obviously the nurses at the hospital were not psycholgists and would not understand your first attempts at responding or trying to respond to treatment. 

I have a signed copy of Professor's Toate's book on Obsessived Compulsive Behaviour after attending one of his Uni seminars. 

This book was written with tears and is read with tears - a must for those who suffer or care for the suffering. 

Your book and sharing will surely help some soul who needs to reach out and know that soemone will take their hand - lifting them up out of the vale of tears.

Hugs and love,

Katy.xx

There is nothing left to say about an experience like this except good luck. Paula Barrett (Cuthbert-how mean is my valley)

This is obviously a story that HAD to be told. I hope that in the telling it has lifted some of the horrific burden from your shoulders. The initial chapter, your entry to the psychiatric unit, trying to show your childhood experiences via drawings on the wall and a noose and being misunderstood make the reader empathise with the frustration you must have felt. NO wonder you had to resort to the comfort, some people, with less reason than you feel, of the cool slice of a razor blade. Good Luck with this heart-rending story. K.J.

FINE LINE A BALANCE TO SURVIVE

A touching story told with honesty and courage. You clearly have an urge to help others, for it would be difficult to reveal all these things for any other reason. I wish you well with it. Backed with admiration and many thanks for backing mine.

Best wishes, Adelina

r

Very impressive and courageous writing, disturbing for those who have not had access to these sort of events, yet written with emotion and with a fighting spirit. I wish you all the best.

backed,

Artistic1

An important book that gives positive messages to those who have suffered in trauma. I admire your website and am glad that the British Psychology and other medical professionals have supported this book. I hope this does well. 

backed,

ChickenRooster

I am impressed by the control the author has over what must be very difficult narrative to write (the scene with the jam on the walls was incredibly vividly described). I am not someone who would choose to read a book like this, but I can see it has huge appeal. Jake

Fabulous writing, a clever structural design and aglow with a continuity of brilliantly observed detail – for example the discovery of how best to break a fork. It’s in the detail that the pathos of the story comes through strongest and there’s an admirable craft in the choice, employment and timing of detail in this book. There's also a wise message here - that often we can find strength and courage in our vulnerability.

re

Hi Lisa,

I read some of the comments written by other readers of your story. They mostly praised your strenght, being candid and honest. Not that I did not realize that, but I want to talk about your writing abilities. I love the way you manage dialog and narrative, the way to go forward and the way you go to your past, and the way you use words to paint every scene. You're a natural writer that involve the writer with tight grips and don't let go.

Congratulations, I back you with great pleasure!!!

David

report abuse reo ayres wrote 10 days ago [send message] [reply]

This is compelling and informative and also disturbing and alienating. A difficult topic that is handled sensitively without being self-pitying. A good, thought-provoking read.

Lisa

I found your story difficult to read because it is told with integrity and honesty. I admire your courage in telling it and found it inspirational.

Wishing you every success in all aspects of your life

Jane

A story that's took some courage to put to pen and paper.

At least it's helped to unburden yourself of the past. This book is a very sad account of life, it will help many in the position you were in to perhaps come to terms with their problems. I do hope so.

Your book is also very well written under the circumstances, the pain that you have put yourself through to reveal the past.

I wish you all the best in the future and back your book.SHELVED.

Thank you for backing my book.

Neville

Not my usual reading matter - but evocative without being cloying (which some of the true-life books can be!) backed

report abuse CamilleS

It broke my heart. It made me sad and angry. I work in a school system and abuse is hard to spot sometimes. Well done! Backing!

Camille

Hi,

I was moved to tears several times by your heartbreaking story, your candidness, honesty and spirit are to be admired, I don`t know if I could have bared my soul in such a way. But what I admired most was your message of hope, this wonderful piece of writing will I`m sure offer comfort to those people who have suffered the same fate as you did. Thank you for having the courage to share such a persponal account with us all...Backed with utter pleasure.

Good luck,

Cerys

You've given us a heartbreaking, yet inspirational true story. Believable characters with real emotions. Vivid scenes. Thought provoking narrative. Razor sharp writing. Backed.

Lisa - 

I just finished reading the first chapter. All I can say is, it requires guts to write about this often ignored issue. The writing is sensitive and touching. I wish you the very best in life.

Lisa, I am at a loss for words. Your description and retelling of your story is so matter-of-fact and done with seeming ease (and I know it was not with ease at all!). I applaud your ability to recount such a very difficult story and the courage with which you tell it. Your writing itself is also well done. You are going on my shelf. Best wishes for both your book and your healing, as I know this is a long and harrowing process.

Lisa,

A Fine Line A Balance to Survive took tremendous courage to write and should help those who suffer through similar circumstances. Backed with pleasure.

I wasn't clear whether this was biography (about someone else) or if it is autobiography (about you). In either case, it is well written and gives real insights into the effects of abuse in the life of a person. It seems odd that Bridget could have such rational and "normal" thoughts going through her mind at the same time that she was experiencing irrational fears and carrying out irrational behavior. I hope that this will be a help to people in need.

Backed.

Steven 

HI Lisa ...

I really do not know what to say. What it must have cost to open your heart in this way, so publicly, Is astounding. How can someone endure with such fortitude the trials you have written about?. How can we begin to believe the horrors you have suffered. I feel humbled by your courage. The next time I am having a bad day, I hope I can remember your words. Backed ... With best wishes for the future. Regards ... Duncan.

I must make a confession about keeping your work on my WL for a few days. I was scared to read it to be honest. I knew that a lot of it would bring back memories for me that I would not want. Her I will comment on your writing. I will also send you a message.

You write very well. It is both hard hitting and with the clarity of crystal. The decriptions are vivid and evocative. The 'you' in this is written with honesty, passion and bravery.

BACKED

)

Lisa-

I salute your courage to let the world know about your past.

This story is more than a narration of pysical and sexual abuse. This is a story of a true survivor who keeps fighting to change the past and abandon all those nightmares and dark memories. Reading your lines, I could really feel the emotion and the sensation of wearing your shoes how you were mistreated and violently abused by those people. I believe that this story is going to change the worldwide perception of children violence and abuse. Good luck to you and your book.

FLETCH

Thank you, I feel frustrated by the 'Misery Memoir' bandwagonists as they are damaging genuine useful insight from the true issues that are significant.

Best wishes and thanks to all who do read the genuine books.

Lisa

A very hard subject, much overmilked by 'Misery Memoir' bandwagonists, but you avoid that. You tell the story honestly and without sensation. Your writing is spare and to the point, and full of feeling. Well done. 

A very hard subject, much overmilked by 'Misery Memoir' bandwagonists, but you avoid that. You tell the story honestly and without sensation. Your writing is spare and to the point, and full of feeling. Well done.

Hi Lisa,

More feedback as promised. 

I've just finished chapter 2, and am finding your story a masterpiece in it's genre! It's made me cry, smile, and think, "hey, I can relate to that". I say this with all honesty; I don't want to only be reading this when I'm in front of the laptop, and so will be purchasing a copy from amazon tomorrow, (please tell me that it's available?)

It is one of the most moving true stories that I've ever read, and I'm only on chapter 3!

you should be very proud.

Sye

Lisa,

Now I realize why your book cover showed the pretty woman in knots; Lisa, I am really sorry about what you had to go through - abuse is a damn dirty word and you know it, so do I.

You have expressed words from the bottom of your heart and you brought it outwards for us to read; that in itself is a courageous deed. It has taken me a lot more time to even write a book on my years as a nine year old and I have still so much to say.

I will be back to finish this book. People need to know the feelings that sometimes can prevail in cases of abuse.

Backed and Recommended,

Romilla

Two words, (on what I've read so far), AMAZING, BREATHTAKING!!!!!!!

I'll always support works of true life stories. Forgive me if I don't read too much of your book, but since Dean Koontz's "Intensity" (which I skipped many pages, just couldn't read on) I find the books describing violence and cruelty to be too disturbing and I just can't stop thinking about it. It's very encouraging to know that a glimpse of hope is always there and no matter how small it may be at the time, one can hang to it and find their way out. BACKED

Hi Lisa, this is an incredibly sensitive book about a very difficult subject. You have created a miricale in writing. Brilliant. I cannot understand how it has slipped back down the ratings. Good luck and bless you for revealing these traumas and inner thoughts. Such bravery. Backed Gordon -

Wow. What an amazing thing, to be putting this down. It's a hard thing to read, but I am enjoying the writing and the feeling expressed so vividly. Abuse is something that never goes away and you deal with it with just the right touch - not overdone, not heavy handed, not sensational. Watchlisting you while I read on.

The book is indeed courageous & also meek. It voices out abuse & atrocities while still remaining gentle. It is more a story of victim than of one who wants to dictate. i have personally never face such abuse but there is one solution that works 100% everywhere, no matter how bad the situation, calling and trusting in Jesus is the solution.

The book is indeed courageous & also meek. It voices out abuse & atrocities while still remaining gentle. It is more a story of victim than of one who wants to dictate. i have personally never face such abuse but there is one solution that works 100% everywhere, no matter how bad the situation, calling and trusting in Jesus is the solution.

The book is indeed courageous & also meek. It voices out abuse & atrocities while still remaining gentle. It is more a story of victim than of one who wants to dictate. i have personally never face such abuse but there is one solution that works 100% everywhere, no matter how bad the situation, calling and trusting in Jesus is the solution.

Dear Lisa, 

To be honest, this is not my kind of book as I can only read so much about child abuse. But I will still take a look, and congrats on all your success. Thanks so much for the comment and backing on my book and soon I'll upload more. I might soon have to ask you a few questions about self-publishing too. 

Peter

An amazing pitch, a very touching, heartbreaking story.. Backed with pleasure, will return with further comments once read.

Helen

My own little, fictional tale pales to nothing when compared with your real life trauma. I hope writing it has been cathartic for you. The pain in the first chapter is raw and you have written about it candidly in a compelling flow. I am very happy to back this book.

Katy 

Wow, time doesn't permit me to finish, but I've read through Ch 9. 

What can you say but how sorry I am that you had to endure the pain and suffering; especially at the hands of family! And to not have someone back you when you tried to say something.

Also, how do they allow such uncaring, horrible medical professionals in a psychiatric ward no less! You might as well be abused all over again.

You are a remarkably strong woman and I give you credit for putting your life to paper. I wish you luck in your endeavor and I hope you find much success!

Denise

Lisa, A fine Line.....Some of that have spent our lives on that line. This is such a remarkable story, it needs to be written and it needs to be read. I've dealt with many of the same things and put it in poetry you were able to put it in story form. I admire that. This is so well written.

Thank you

njoy *moods and expressions*

Hi Lisa,

I can't remember if I commented or not on your manuscript. Its haunting, breathtaking and an absolute testament to your strength.

Words can't describe how moving I found this, expecially as I work with people who have been through similar experiences.

Wishing you many blessings and lots of luck.

Jo G

As I'm sure you know, child abuse is a very difficult subject on which to write and read about. I believe this is the third or fourth book on such abuse I'read on Auth in the last month. All were written quite well with sensitivity and depth. And your is no exception. I really like the first person POV. It makes for a much more powerful and gripping novel. I also liked how you started with her already in therapy and then started to show how she got to that point and the course of her therapy.

Best of Luck

Natalie

Wow. I have read mental illness stories before, but never written in first person, never written by the victim. This is extremely well written, just from a technical perspective. The story itself is difficult to read, but there is the comfort of knowing that you have reached the light at the end of the tunnel. You made it. At least, you made it far enough to write this. Some scars, I would imagine, never heal, but one does learn how to move on? In any case, it is really, genuinely fascinating to read about this from inside your mind, as you saw it. I commend your courage and honesty in sharing this, and I hope it gets published, because it could help others so very much.

Most courageous and well written. I'm sure many who read it will be helped by it. Congratulations

A BALANCE TO SURVIVE

Dear Lisa,

This is a story that needs to be told and needs to be read. Every time I felt the urge to sharpen the writing, I thought no, this should be written in its purest form. 

It sits proudly on my bookshelf, thank you for having the courage to write it and share it.

A 

A very brave and worthwhile book. I'm backing this because this book is different and it is the kind of book that deserves success.

Best wishes,

Trevor 

Excellent book, extremely powerful and for a very sensitive subject. Excellent writing. Backed.

Sandie

A BALANCE TO SURVIVE

Lisa - Congratulations on a most impressive book. I am sure it will be of great use to all truly caring staff working with the mentally distressed. I believe it should be recommended reading for any person considering working in the field. It's a cruel world. You either hold up or fold up. Many people in recovery will find your book most helpful as a therapeutic aid. No counsellor should be without it.. Backed.

Tony Br

Dear Lisa,

I have backed your book because I was hooked by the pitch, loved the introduction and read on. How much more I read depends on time and commitment.

Enjoy everything and good luck.

 Landarya wrote 113 days ago [send message] [reply]

wow, a powerful story. You commented on mine a while back and i am returning the favour. The way you have written this, simply and honestly is perfect. Best of luck for the future. I hope this book helps many people one day. 

Cheers

Megan

  RECENT MESSAGES JANUARY 2010

Hi Lisa, I read about your book at the BPS site, and because I am a Psychologist and I had an experience in a hospital where I m doing my practice, with 3 siblings where they experienced many forms of abuse I decided to buy it. When I will read it I will send you feedback (but after one month for sure because I will not be able to read it earlier). Respectfully,

A SOLICITOR WHO WORKS ON A PANEL FOR CHILDREN'S WELFARE

Lisa - I am going to buy the book so I can read it all! It was painful because it touches so much on what I do. So many people would not even believe the experiences outlined in the book. The descriptions of self harming are painful to read. So many of my clients go through it. Your book for the first time has made me understand it better. Just by the fact you wrote the book shows that some people can break free and come out of the other end of such experiences. Sadly, many of my clients continue in the downward spiral. Maybe your book will help us professionals to understand how to help them dig themselves out. Well done. We will write a comment in the next few days, but want to think about it. 

When the truth is revealed and placed before our eyes - our eyes are pupils. And we learn.

Thank you for teaching me.

Mark R. Trost

Melton Times Report September 4th 2009

Acclaim for Lisa’s account of abuse.

A WOMAN who survived years of child abuse has published a book drawing on her experiences, which has been met with critical acclaim. Lisa Whenham-Bossy wrote A Fine Line: A Balance to Survive which came out last week but has already shifted off the shelves with praise coming from all corners. Lisa’s book is about Bridget who is persuaded to check herself into a psychiatric unit for what she thinks is a matter of weeks but turns into years. The mum-of-two said: “Although I am happy my book has received such a brilliant response, I am saddened that books like these have to be written in the first place, but hope they will be of beneficial value in the end. “I obviously didn’t want what happened, but I wouldn’t change it now because it has made me who I am and I have a loving husband and two beautiful children.” “The book has taken a long time to write and a lot of really hard work. Its main message is to promote more public awareness about mental health issues.” The main character unravels a sequence of events that she had blocked from her memory. As more of her past is uncovered her medical team become shocked and appalled at the treatment she suffered at the hands of her abusers. Writing in the introduction Lisa, who is about to complete a degree in psychology, said: “Many children who have been abused manage to survive the experience by suppressing the emotions deep down and go into denial. “Unfortunately the nature of the beast is that when the mind feels at the most relaxed and secure, the beast is unleashed and rises to the consciousness. As a consequence, a survivor of child abuse may be at the best stage of their life when they suffer flashbacks and trauma. “I was at one of the best stages of my life with a loving husband and two young children when my beast struck.” The book has drawn great interest from the public as well as the medical profession including doctors, psychiatrists and mental health workers. Professor Frederick Toates, coauthor of Obsessive Compulsive Behaviour, said: “This is a courageous and moving story written by a courageous woman which describes some of the best and the worst of human behaviour. “It should provide help and give insight to many people who are enduring mental suffering. It is a powerful lesson for those who live with, care and provide support for people with mental disturbance and those who administer healthcare systems.” ● The book is available for £8.99 from Melton Bookshop and Waltham Deli and all good bookshops or from Lisa’s website www.afineline-lisawb.co.uk

LL wrote 10 hours ago

 What comes across from the start is just how well this is told. Aside from the occasionalissing comma, etc. this is very well written, but even more, this is a compelling and engaging story. I have read a few books of this nature on the site and this is one of the best. 

JLI wrote 19 hours ago

Your story is compelling. You write very well about your thought processes. It brings the reader 'inside' your head and allows him or her to actually see the logic that you used. There are technical issues that I am sure others can help you with. The important thing is that you are making a gift of your horrible experiences to the world so that they might be able to help somebody else who has been through this tragedy. 

 Andrew W. wrote 1 day ago  A Fine Line - A Balance To Survive Hi Lisa, An achingly honest and raw book, the courage to write it is only trounced by the courage and resilience to survive what happened in the first place. An important book, a sensitive book, not a sensationalist one. Well done for being able, somehow, to articulate what happened, to stare for long periods into the darkness to make out the shapes so you could share them with the rest of us. Poignant, sad, a book to make us angry and a book to make us cry. And in it all, shines hope, through the support of those closet and the unconditional love of your family you have pulled through this. I was moved by this tale and it deserves to do well, backing so it gets wider notice. If you take a look at my book that's a bonus, but it is not necessary. Best wishes and good luck 

AP wrote 1 day ago

Everyone should read this, the quicker it hits the market the better, It certainly does take a brave person to write this kind of stuff. The locking yourself in the wardrobe as a means of escape really brings it home how desperate a person who've been abused becomes. you have captured the feelings, fears and behaviours so well in this story. I am touched and appauled at the same time. I hope your work encourages others who have suffered terrible abuse to speak out.

nans wrote 1 day ago

Touched by your story because it felt like you are the voice of so many who had similar experiences. The writing needs a bit of work though, and I would suggest a professional crit to get it polished because this is a story that has lot of potential. Best, Nans

KJK wrote 1 day ago

What you do extremely well is explain your thought process. While it seems crazy to make three-d art on your wall, attempt to jump off a building, etc. you explain it in a way the reader can understand - even if the logic is strange, you are convincing. And contrast that with the way others react to you - we get an view of what is normal. You leave us curious as you start to peel through the layers. Not to mention how difficult it must have been - children, husband, and having to work on issues. The irony of it is that you are trying to get out quickly so you do what you think is expected only to find that it raises eyebrows and makes your stay longer. I don't know why I love books like this one, but this is the type of book I would / I have bought.

G33k wrote 2 days ago

Hi Lisa, This is an amazing story. I only have two possible suggestions to help you in your rise up the Authonomy chart. The first has absolutely nothing to do with your writing - it's a weird formatting glitch that many books on Authonomy suffer from. You have strange line breaks throughout, which interrupts the flow of the story - I would suggest trying (with one chapter, to see if it works) to copy and paste to something like Notepad, then copy and paste it back to your document file. In theory, this should strip out the extra formatting tags. My second suggestion has to do with a habit that you and I share - the overuse of the word "that". I posted something in the forum about this - if you're interested in checking it out, the link is: http://www.authonomy.com/forum/Posts.aspx?threadId=31132#AnchorPostId742352 Other than that, all I can say is thank you for sharing your incredible, inspiring story with us. Shelved without hesitation.

BM

wrote 4 days ago

Lisa, Thank you for asking me to read your memoirs. You have the courage of a lion. I return to you my deepest empathy and serious respect. Stories about mental illness are challenging, as they touch on the “scary” areas that we tend to avoid and so your story will not fall into the “casual readers” bookshelves. But that’s OK. Your story is about recovery, hope, and bravery, about the love and support of those around you now. This counters the horrifying trauma of abuse and the terrifying journey you have walked. There is such a remarkable story here, it needs to be written and it needs to be read. I wish you every success with your work. Dawn : ARK

wrote 4 days ago

Hey again, Forgot to tell you, there is a book called "A Fine Balance" by Rohinton Mistry. Check it out on Google. Maybe you title is a little too close to that? Anyway, can't protect titles. George report abuse alertone wrote 4 days ago

Hey Lisa, I am fascinated by your book. It was re3commended to me by one of your ardent fans as the one most aligned with mine, although my book is about prostitution slavery. Check me out. Have backed you in any case. George

DB wrote 4 days ago

This a book with a story that needs a wide audience. You are indeed very brave to write such a chilling true story. By writing this story I also believe you are going to help a lot of people. There is another book on the site Free at Last by George Mallory, i can recommend you read, based on a true story of a young woman used as a sex slave and the mental effect this had on her life. It is only through stories such as yours and Gearges, that we can begin to see the brutality of it all and the emotional distress it causes. I am glad to give this a spin on my shelf in the hope others will see and read this. Dont worry about returning the read, Just conentrate on your studies and good luck. Derek

jawdds wrote 4 days ago

Lisa- All that I can say is 'wow'...it's chilling, it's brave, it's true... Your voice definitely needs to be heard, and you do it very well. You are going to help alot of people. Your writing is no-nonsense, and GOOD. Hopefully my little shelf can help you- Best of luck, Joyce

Onthedottedline wrote 5 days ago [

One of the great things about word-processing is that now, anyone can be a writer, and so people who might, in the past, have remained silent, now come to the fore and tell their stories. This is a brave and harrowing account of abuse, which has always gone on, and still goes on, but only now, in the modern age, does it make headlines. I'm sure this will be of great help to others surviving abuse, and all those who support the abused. I'm honoured to have this on my shelf. Best wishes, Tony.

KJ wrote 5 days ago

Hi Lisa- I applaud the courage with which you write this touching memoir. You've got a nice writing style, a strong voice, and a powerful story that you're sharing with the world. I am glad to back this and help in that very little way... Best of luck to you! Kim Invisible Justice

JCH wrote 5 days ago [send message] [reply] Lisa, Wishing you all the best on your memoir. We need more bold, honest stories like yours to shatter the sensitive subject of abuse. It comes as no surprise to me how abuse can affect the psyche. I applaud you and your bravery. Never give up on hope. Backed, Janine MY KIND OF CRAZY

JA wrote 5 days ago

Hi Lisa. Huge congratulations on having the guts to write this down. I worked with an author on a memoir of this kind and I know how tough it can be - the very fact of writing can bring up more memories and unlock more of the past. It can be a form of tough therapy in its own right. I think your writing is very good but my honest opinion is that you need someone to help structure this better. Although it is non-fiction and true-life it still needs a strong narrative arc if it is going to be a commercial proposition. I would strongly advise you get an agent swiftly. There is still a market for this kind of book but publishers are not putting out as many as they were and some are warning that the market is becoming saturated. I really feel ghastly writing that - as it seems as though it's belittling your story. It isn't. Just being horribly honest about the state of publishing. On a very practical note, the different fonts do make reading hard - and the formatting is very peculiar in the section in the bolder typeface. The reaction of the doctors and nurses at the ad hoc 'art therapy' with the jam and pyjama cord was unbelievable. I'm going to spin this on my shelf and really wish you the very best with it. jane (Walker)

MAwrote 5 days ago

Anyone reading this must surely feel sympathy for what you endured and admire your courage in surviving it. I applaud the way you have told this story so far, no graphic details or gratuitous description. The strength in your writing has no need of such things, the pain is there for all to see. If I were to be critical, I would prefer to read this in one font and I do feel your chapters are too long. The impact of your revelations would perhaps be even more effective if they were read in shorter style. This really does need to be read by a wider audience, both for your sake and to permit the public to have more understanding of mental health issues. Having worked for years in Health & Social Care, this would be important literature for students to read. Happy to have this on my shelf. Margaret.

MGi wrote 6 days ago

Congratulations on writing your story.. it's authentic, gripping, very real and heavy. Suggestions. The pitch..I would spread it out between the quotes. The title. Needs a full stop or colon I think, after 'Line'. The text. looks 'bit all the same'. You could skip a line between paragraphs.. I didn't see any typos!. Wishing you all the best with this.Mikey..(The Free)

A Lt wrote 6 days ago

This is a shocking story. It must have been both painful and cathartic to write, yet what I have read so far isn't in the least mawkish. 'I looked at my lifeline. It looked so bare.' Sentences like these are simple, yet they say so much. Yes, it needs a good edit and, yes, Chapter One (in my opinion) needs breaking up, but your story is the kind of thing that does need to be told and I wish you well with it. On my shelf for a while. Angela. report abuse

PB wrote 7 days ago

Hello Lisa, Yes, I am happy to swap reads. This is one of the most difficult stories that I have ever read. I'm afraid that I feel exactly the same way about it as Urania did 3 days ago. Your courage is without doubt up with the angels - guardian angels - they should have been there to help you. I am going to try to read some more, so at the moment I'm placing it on my watch list. Good luck. PB A Passing Storm

C.P. wrote 7 days ago

It is hard to know what to say after reading part of your book. Some pain can hardly be put into words, yet you have done so. The way you write about unspeakable suffering, I can only commend you. On my shelf C.P

Shubie wrote 8 days ago

Hello Lisa As others have said this is a brave and compelling human story. The emotional depth and the fact that is is based on real life engages me and keeps me reading. However it does need help from an editor to make it polished enough for a publisher or agent to consider. I did start making some notes of what might need changing in my amateur attempt to be useful but I realise that what you really need is someone to go through the manuscript with you. Even if it wasn't a professional editor who would want payment but a friendly writer - maybe a kind soul on Authonomy? I'd do it myself if I weren't so busy! I am not a professional and I only say this because I think you have a story worth telling. Please do not be discouraged by my inexpert attempt to help! Mental illness is fascinating. Abuse is horrific but also fascinating to people. Strong real life stories make for great books. But the competition is fierce and you need to be as well supported in your writing as you were in your treatment. I am backing this for its potential as a strong book and in the hope that you will that writing support. Well done for writing this. It is not only brave but also potentially helpful to others. You have done a great job. Very good luck with it. Shubie

hot lips wrote 8 days ago

A very well written and powerful story, this book could go right to the top. I have no hesitation in backing this. BADD r

EW wrote 8 days ago

This is painful and beautiful. Well written. Shelved.

CC wrote 9 days ago

I plan on writing a book like this once Superhated and Life In Pink have been completed. But I'll have to work very hard to get it as good as this. I've only read 10 minutes worth and it's grabbed me already, no wonder it has gone up +2789 places, it's brilliant. Adding to my bookshelf. Christopher Couture (Superhated) PS. Thank you very much for commenting on Superhated and adding it to your watchlist, it's much appreciated.

SSwrote 9 days ago

Hard hitting stuff Lisa! But beautifully told and well well written! Simon

CDV wrote 10 days ago

I can't imagine the courage it must have took to share your story. I agree with some others who think this is important, so it's also important it's edited well so it finds the right publisher. But I know nothing about this kind of work, so I'll refrain from offering suggestions. I find it tragic and hard to put down as is. Definitely worth space on my shelf. Good luck to you with everything. Pax.

Urania wrote 11 days ago

Lisa, this is courageous and personal. There's certainly a market for this kind of book right now, but you need to get the mechanics right. In other words, find a good editor to help you. Otherwise you could offer it up to HC themselves for one of their true life series - as advertised on this site - however, they will write it for you and that means you'll get very little in the way of a fee. However, there are a lot of publishers and agents out there looking for this' real life' story type of book. I truly wish you loads of success with it, so on my shelf for a spin it goes.

BW wrote 11 days ago

Lisa. Ugh. Good stuff but hard to read...for me anyway. Was a bit lost at times but not annoyingly so. I wish you the best with it. -=B

jaxbee wrote 12 days ago

Hi Lisa I almost felt like I was prying, reading this. Your account is so personal and honest, it's as if I shouldn't have read it without being asked. You've captured your/ the voice so well I felt like I was there, and shouldn't have been. And yet I had to read on. That's what you want from a book, whatever the subject matter. The intricate details you include in your description (the 'picture' for example, how you stash the razor blades) are horrifyingly fascinating and I could understand all your emotions about being in 'hospital. Your voice sounds so rational and yet you do so many irrational things. I just wanted somebody to pick you up and give you a cuddle without saying anything! Speaking frankly, and it's hard with such a deeply personal tale, there are many other accounts of this nature out there and you will have to add something different for it to be picked up. Your strong voice will help. Others have mentioned, below, the need for a good edit and a real think about the structure and how to manage the flash backs. I wish I could give you some decent thought on this but I just don't know the market. I would urge you to consider what your special angle could be though and then tackle another draft. It's already compelling. I think it has the potential to be well-written but you'll need to do some fine tooth combing. I wish you the very best with it and would definitely look at a further version if that's of interest. I'll put this on my shelf in the hope it will encourage others to read it. I think you could get some really useful advice from authonomy and I'm sure there will be readers out there who know this genre. Jackie 

Dear Lisa, You have a strong voice, yet vulnerable. This story needs to be told. I strongly recommend that you hire an editor/proofreader to help you structure the paragraphs and timelines. Although it jumps around, the material is important. Also, stay with one font such as Times New Roman. Separate the flashback with a break in the text. Doing those two things right off the bat will make the book easier to read. I've backed your book because of the strength of your voice and your story. Bringing the mechanics up to speed will make this a powerful book. All my best to you and your book. Jambi Fringe of Darkness

SW wrote 12 days ago

Lisa, Wow, what an incredible piece of writing. It's raw and it needs a good deal of editing but it allows the reader to climb into a very troubled body. Child abuse is such a huge problem in the world and your writing is very important to emphasize the results. What hell you describe in the hospital ward fighting suicidal thoughts and the very real threat of others about. I was on the edge of my chair for all five chapters. I suggest you finish writing the story before you worry about editing, but when you are there, you can do some of the edit yourself. Just break the really long paragraphs in to smaller ones and break the dialogue apart. Look at any novel and it will show you how. There should be a new paragraph each time the speaker changes. Trim dialogue so you can read it out loud and it sounds natural. Anyway this is a chilling story and an important work. Good luck with it. SW Test Pilot's Daughter: Revenge

Cait wrote 13 days ago

A Fine Line A Balance to Survive: Lisa, I think this has lots of potential, and if you had someone with a good editor’s eye to point out some punctuation problems, several missed words, and words which could be cut, it would make a great difference. Also if you could check the formatting as the right margin seems to be set too wide? Stories like this are not easy to write (or to read) so I admire your courage for doing so, and I have backed this to give you a bit of encouragement. Wishing you every success with it. Backed. Sláinte, Cáit ~ Muckers ~

Good luck with this. It is not only a brave story to tell, but well written Best wishes Sue