Stand Up: The Life Stories of Jennie Lee

by Kerrie Dorman

I endured an incredibly challenging journey while becoming a mother of three with the man I once believed was my true love and lifelong partner. Through the life stories of my heroine, Jennie Lee – based on my own experiences – I share the excruciating reality of my struggles in Stand Up.

I hope to inspire anyone who may be in an abusive relationship to take control of their choices and everyone else to recognise the clues and be aware of how difficult it is to extract oneself and encourage the offer of support to those suffering at the hands of an abuser, whatever it takes, however difficult it may feel.

Now, I am free. I live in London, writing, working in the local pub and hanging out with my family as much as possible.

150 pages, Paperback

Published April 25, 2025

Reviews

[Francesca Culy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written and deeply personal, the narrator still finds poetry amid the struggle, I enjoyed how she traced small memories, holding on to the gentle details despite everything that was happening around her.

[Hannah Boyland · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an incredibly powerful read. It was really difficult to read at times, but it is, in my opinion, such an important read - thank you Kerrie for sharing such a deeply personal story.
Abuse is often hidden away, with survivors being made to feel that they too should hide, I think there is something incredibly powerful in how Kerrie has shifted that narrative here and shared her side of the story. I think this is a very helpful read in understanding how abuse can look, both from the outside and from the inside.

[Ruth Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew this was going to be a tough topic, so this book sat on my bedside table for a little while as I worked up the courage to start it. Once started, I couldn’t really put it down. It was a very engaging read and I’m so glad the story is being shared. I hope it helps someone see the signs or recognize earlier how to help a friend. Highly recommended!

[The Phantom · Rating 4 out of 5]

An alarming account of abuse thats tough to read but hard to put down. A commendable first novel from this author.

[Brenda Etchells · Rating 5 out of 5]

Given the difficult and sensitive topic of the book I found this well written, easy to read, and most of all compelling. The narrative style lends itself well to the reader and the topic as it meant I could empathise with the main character whilst not being overly emotionally stimulated. This is a very brave book from the author which I am sure will go a long way to opening up more discussion on abusive and coercive behabviour in relationships.

[Mrs C · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent and emotional account from this first time author. A curated story of survival from abuse and the struggles to make sense of the trauma suffered.

[Staceywh_17 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found the prologue a little confusing. The author uses a pseudonym 'Jennie Lee' throughout the book in order to protect her children. Then proceeds to writes the book under her real name Kerrie Dorman. Surely people will still be able to make the connections?

My second issue in the book was the first 'real' physical incident that happened wasn't instigated by Brody...

'I lifted my right foot up and over the gearstick and shoved my heel tight into his face three times. There was blood. It felt sooo good'.

That's destined to gauge a reaction! Maybe not immediately but the repercussions will be waiting in the wings. Trust me, I know.

Don't get me wrong I did feel for the author and I think she's very brave for being honest and opening up to a bunch of strangers/readers. No woman EVER deserves to be treated like THAT and neither do their children. My apologies for the language but Brody certainly cemented his name up there as a prize CuHnt didn't he? And that's being polite!

The story is in part harrowing and heartbreaking. It's a scary situation to be in as you often feel there is no escape.

I'm so happy she found her happy ever after with a man who truly loved her and her 'chickens'.

[andshe.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly thank you For sharing your story. I can't even begin to imagine how hard this must have been to share with the world. Your strength shines through in every page.

This is an open account of being in an abusive relationship. The vulnerability is visible from beginning to end. Despite the difficult topic, the author has shown us determination, warmth, strong maternal instinct, hope and love.

I truly hope this book helps other people speak out and seek help if their in a similar situation.

Thank you to Mia for sending me a copy of this powerful story.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Strange to say that a book around a topic such as coercive control was a page-turner but the author’s compelling narrative kept me wanting to know more. The story of Jennie Lee, strong independent business woman who found herself in a controlling relationship with 3 small children to consider left me with the feeling that if it can happen to her, it can happen to anyone.

It also achieved its objective of providing context for me to support someone else (male or female) who was going through something similar. Would definitely recommend to anyone.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly, Thank You For Allowing Me To Read Your Story! Having Being A Witness Of DV This Story Hit Extremely Deep For Me!
In Every Page Of Your Story It Enlightens Your Strength And Courage.
This Book Tells Your Story Of An Abusive Relationship Whilst Showing Everyone That It Is Absolutely Ok To Speak Out About This Kind Of Abuse.

[Elliott Yancey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kerrie Dorman's "Stand Up" is a courageous and deeply personal account of her journey through an abusive relationship while raising three children. Based on her own experiences, the book, narrated through the perspective of her heroine Jennie Lee, offers a raw and unflinching look at the excruciating realities of living with an abuser and the immense difficulty of breaking free.
Dorman's writing is vulnerable yet infused with determination, warmth, a strong maternal instinct, hope, and love, even amidst the difficult subject matter.. The book serves as an inspiration for those in similar situations to take control of their choices and for others to recognize the signs of abuse and offer support.
Ultimately, "Stand Up" is portrayed as an inspirational read and a powerful testament to maternal love, resilience, and the enduring power of hope. It is a moving debut that aims to encourage others to speak out and seek help if they are experiencing abuse.

[Diana Smallbone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stand Up by Kerrie Dorman stays with you long after you finish the final page. It’s a deeply personal memoir about surviving an abusive relationship and finding the strength to finally break free. From the very beginning, Kerrie’s honesty and vulnerability are clear, and her courage in sharing such a difficult story really shines through.

What stood out most to me was the strength and determination that runs through the entire book. Alongside the painful moments, there is also hope, resilience and a powerful sense of love for her children. That emotional core gives the story a real sense of purpose beyond simply telling what happened.

Stand Up is an incredibly brave book. By sharing her experience so openly, Kerrie is helping to raise awareness about domestic abuse and reminding readers that it is never wrong to speak out. I hope this story reaches people who may need to hear it, because books like this can make a real difference.

[Kelly Hollingworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This 150 page book is powerful in its message rather than word count. Based on a true story it is a book about domestic mental and physical abuse. Portrayed through Jennie Lee, a strong independent woman who fell in love with Brody, the book documents her falling in love, marrying and having children. But twice married Brody is insecure and controlling. I become more enraged as the story progressed, willing Jennie to escape and be free. This is a book that will resonate with those living in a similar situation but also for those who may suspect a friend or family member is. I hope the book’s message and Jennie’s story helps others, men and women in such relationships, to stand up.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently read Stand Up: The Life Stories of Jennie Lee by Kerrie Dorman and found it a very emotional and honest read. The story follows Jennie Lee and the difficult experiences she goes through while raising her children and dealing with an abusive relationship.
What stood out to me was how real and personal it felt. It shows how hard it can be for someone to leave that kind of situation, but also how important support and strength are.
It’s a powerful story about survival, courage, and finding freedom again. A tough read at times, but an important one.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read it cover to cover and put it down. A story of courage in so many ways. Too often women’s stories are hidden through fear or shame or some other reason never allowing the abuse to see the light of day. This book is raw and real and will play such an important part in helping other people break free. A must read to see the quiet and subtle ways that control can sit in and how complex the situation is. Honestly a heartfelt 5 star must read for everyone. ❤️

[P David · Rating 5 out of 5]

A courageous and unflinching account of an abusive relationship, with a strong clear narrator, who infuses her story with warmth, optimism and grit. Despite the difficult subject matter, ultimately this book carries powerful messages of maternal love, determination and hope. An inspirational read from a first time author.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wanted to read this but at the same time didn’t. It’s a very personal, triggering book which raised many emotions in me.
For a first book it’s really good, I read it very quickly as I was very engrossed.
Recommend reading.
Many thanks to team @literallyPR for my copy in exchange for an honest review.

[EdenB15 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was definetly not a easy read but once I started I couldn’t put it down. Kerrie writes so beautifully and even despite the tricky topic it was very engaging and brings to light something that isn’t often but need to be talked about and hopefully it really helps someone. Would recommend

[Mark Dorman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly moving and beautifully written. What a debut outing from this new author.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Harrowing account of endurance, tolerance & final escape of a controlling, bullying & abusive relationship. Very well written & gives reader great insight into a frightening relationship.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very compelling read……and a brave book to write!

[Jessie Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the the best book I ever read! Beautiful writing & so inspiring!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great new author. A very vivid and thought provoking tale of what can happen in someone’s life behind the façade.

[Mr. Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant, moving & inspirational debut

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hi I love this book and highly recommend it it is very educational and motivational and I could relate very much so when is part two coming ?

[Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

A brave account of an extremely difficult ordeal.