Escaping the Shadows: An Email Journey

by Lisa J. Peck

In this insightful and thought-provoking novel, author Lisa J. Peck utilizes the intimate format of personal email, allowing the reader to be a fly on the computer screen of Charlene's life. Accompany Charlene on this unique email journey through her abusive marriage, divorce, single parenthood, Internet dating adventures, and eventual remarriage. Charlene grows and developes as a friend, mother, and individual as she reaches out to others through email. Let the journey begin . . .

220 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2004

Reviews

[Lindsay Wolsey · Rating 1 out of 5]

While I appreciate what this book was trying to do, it just didn't seem realistic that the wife would leave the abusive husband so soon. And I know the cover said an e-mail journey, but I actually got pretty annoyed with the e-mail format, and I didn't buy that she was talking to men and wanting to date so soon after getting divorced. Divorce is harder than death, and it seems it would take longer to feel like going out. Especially after being in an abusive situation.

To be fair, when I picked this up at the library I only read the first few sentences on the back cover, so I was expecting more of a thriller and less of a self-reflecting journey. I would have put it down and stopped reading but I was sure that the ex-husband was going to attempt something violent or terrible. He didn't.

[Nicole Sampson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found myself wanting to know what would happen next, which is why I got through it. The beginning was somewhat suspenseful but then the rest was a dull and painful read. It just got boring and cliché.

[bellamnop · Rating 1 out of 5]

mmmm would nit recommend, it was really hard to get over the mormon thing (i didnt know till a few pages in when they mentioned temple or smth) but i regret picking up this book

[Brooke · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was am interesting book. I do not feel that overcoming abuse and PTSD is, or should be portrayed, easy to overcome. It's tough to see through this version of life as I have and am living through it. Overall good book, would be better for someone who has the deep LDS beliefs that this writer has.

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Storyline seemed to have a few inconsistencies. Interesting read.