Following her escape from her horrific life with an abusive husband, Patricia Hughes tells her personal story of abuse--and how she left--in this inspiring and moving story. Stuck in an abusive relationship and convinced that she was responsible, the author discusses how she struggled and finally freed herself of her abusive partner and of abusive relationships forever. Drawing from the lessons she learned, the author provides a seven-step program that includes identifying abusive behavior, recognizing abusers, preparing for emergencies, getting help after a crisis, making the decision to stay or leave, learning to heal, and remaining abuse free, providing women with the inspirational and practical advice they need to understand the effects and complexities of abuse and supporting them during a difficult time.