The Breakable Vow
By Kathryn Ann Clarke

    Annie McGowan's relationship with Kevin Griffin grew increasingly serious throughout high school. The summer before their senior year, despite their agreement to not have sex before graduation, Kevin seduces Annie. The resulting pregnancy forces Annie to overlook Kevin's instability and enter what soon becomes a horrific marriage.

    The Breakable Vow is a non-fiction, but all too factual depiction of an abusive relationship. As Kevin's verbal assaults escalate into physical attacks, Annie grows increasingly ashamed and fearful. She seeks, but discounts the advice of a counselor until Kevin's beating puts her in the hospital. There, Annie learns she cannot simply flee; if she wants to retain custody of their daughter, she must find the courage to stay and the strength to fight for her freedom and her life.

    Ms. Clarke writes a brutally honest portrayal of one of the most horrific situations a person could endure. The graphic violence and explicit language provide a vivid snapshot into life with a violent mate. The Breakable Vow also highlights the victim's dire need to seek professional aid, authorities' inability and/or aversion to intervene, and the importance family and friends play in survival. Readers' hearts will race and tears will fall, but by the time they turn the last page, they will be enlightened.

   The book contains a resource guide that includes, among other information, a Profile of an Abusive Partner, a Risk Assessment and Helping Friends. Though not a lightweight read by any standards, I highly recommend The Breakable Vow. Teens and adults who date will learn warning signs of potentially dangerous partners; present victims might just find help and hope; and past victims will be reminded they're not alone.