Tnl-News.com - Domestic violence book hits home locally

Photo By Edward L. HaleBecky Conrad has written two books, "The Door of Facade" and "A Better Day Dawning" about surviving domestic violence.

By EDWARD L. HALE

News Leader Correspondent

Becky Conrad, author of two books, "The Door Of Facade" and "A Better Day Dawning" appeared at the Rite Aid Store, 340 West Main St., Carrollton, April 5, for a book sales and signing event. Conrad is known as a group facilitator with domestic-violence victims.

Domestic violence can be emotional, mental, sexual, psychological, financial or physical abuse committed by a spouse, former spouse, fiancee, boyfriend or girlfriend, between siblings, between siblings and parents, and also between cohabitant or any individuals. Some cases are reported, while others remain silent and say nothing because they are fearful.

Conrad states the stories in her books are her true memoirs. She composed the books from her own experiences dealing with domestic violence and abuse in many forms. Conrad explains at that time she could not "fix" the man that she loved from being so abusive and violent. There were no victim-assistance groups, nor help at that time, but there is so much help today.

Conrad explained that while she was writing the book, she had to relive the past all over again. While doing so she found that, at times, she had to stop due to the horrible experiences she once faced, as she was living them all over again in the book. Conrad mentioned that she had to continue with the book to close that chapter of her life once again. She was determined to get the message out to others dealing with the violence.

Some comments from readers share thoughts on her publications; "I read your first book and feel your pain as I have suffered some of the same things from a controlling husband." writes Karen.

Amanda comments The Door of Façade was a blessing in my life. I was going through the fear, confusion, and trauma of leaving my abusive husband, when this book was given to me. I recommend this book to anyone who has self doubt of leaving an abusive relationship."

Domestic violence historically had been viewed as a private family matter that need not involve law-enforcement intervention. The thought was, what happened in the home, stayed in the home. Police officers were often reluctant to intervene by making an arrest, and often chose instead to simply counsel the couple and ask one of the parties to leave the residence for a period of time. The courts were reluctant to impose any significant sanctions on those convicted of domestic violence, largely because it was viewed as a misdemeanor offense.

However activism, initiated by victim-advocacy groups and feminist groups, has led to a better understanding of the scope and effect of domestic violence on victims and families, and has brought about changes in the criminal-justice system's response.

Local vendors of the books are Dellroy Market, A New Creation Beauty Shop, on Germano Road near Kilgore, or at the Welsh Horn on West Main Street in Carrollton or directly from her Web site.

You can view her web-site by logging onto www.beckyconrad.com and view telephone numbers, news alerts, other suggested books, helpful information, or simply feel free to contact her.

Carroll County Victim Assistance reported that there were 172 cases of domestic violence cases filed in their office in 2007.