Overcoming the Narcissist, Sociopath, Psychopath, and other Domestic Abusers is more than a textbook of abusive behavior. It is filled with hope for one who feels stuck. Chances are, you know someone who is in an abusive relationship, but don’t know how to help. Charlene Quint wrote Overcoming to equip you to be a true friend in a lonely situation.

“Charlene Quint is a family law attorney in the Chicago area who focuses her practice on helping women overcome domestic abuse. She wrote Overcoming to help victims of domestic abuse become the fearless victors that God designed them to be. She is the founder of AbuseCare, a nondenominational faith-based organization designed to provide hope and healing to women on their journey from victim to victorious and to educate and equip churches in caring for victims of domestic abuse. She is a Certified Domestic Violence Professional, an advocate for victims of abuse, a facilitator of multiple support groups, and a domestic abuse survivor.”

I chose to participate in the book launch for Overcoming because of the stigma attached to abuse and women of faith. When her husband is active in the church, people have a hard time believing he is different behind closed doors. Who then, will come to the aid of the victim? Who will be her support system when her emotional and psychological bruises are unseen?

Thirty-four years ago, I helped a friend move out of her house while her husband was at work. She had physical bruises, yet people didn’t believe her because her husband was a prominent member of the medical community.

Charlene says, when no one believes the victim, “the church becomes a haven for wolves.”

How can we stand by when people are hurting? How can we turn our backs on those who need us most? I have often felt helpless to advocate for others, but Overcoming gives tools for recognizing the signs and tactics of abuse, removing victims safely from abusers, and recovering from abuse.

I appreciate the approach used to describe healthy behavior, as well as defining pathological deviations. How can you seek healthy relationships if all you’ve ever known was abusive? Charlene defines a healthy man who takes responsibility for his actions and protects his family. She points out Seven Principles of a Healthy Marriage, and the primary goals of an abuser. The contrasts create clear illustrations and provide affirmation in seeking safety.

Do you know someone in an abusive relationship? Maybe you haven’t recognized the signs. Overcoming will help you take a step to be a safe haven for one who needs your stability.

I am giving away a copy of Overcoming the Narcissist, Sociopath, Psychopath, and other Domestic Abusers to one reader in the continental United States. Leave a comment on my blog (at the top of this post, under the title). You will be entered into the drawing to be held on Thursday, December 3. The holidays are a difficult time for someone who is hurting. Take the first step toward reaching out!

Sally

Disclosure of Material: I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Blog About Network book review program in exchange for a fair and honest review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”