Top positive review
5.0 out of 5 starsHighly researched and well-written book that sheds light on financial abuse
Reviewed in the United States on August 9, 2018
After Shannon's industry-changing first book, Healing from Hidden Abuse, I was so excited to read her second one. It did not disappoint! Although the topic is challenging and (at times) upsetting, the author manages to convey the content in a way that feels down-to-earth and safe.
The book begins by outlining some of the major red flags and tactics behind financial abuse. By keeping the victim from being financially independent, the perpetrator is able to force others to remain dependent on them. But like subtle abuse, this behavior is not always so obvious. It can be insidious, confusing, and downright mind-boggling. The abuser may project their own behavior onto the target, blaming them for the financial predicament that the abuser caused.
In one instance, the abuser even withheld money from the victim receiving medical help and prescriptions. And on the other side, there are partners who secretly build up debt in their partner's name, burying families in seemingly insurmountable problems.
But my favorite part of this book is that it also offers solutions. While many books about abuse simply suggest "just leave and go No Contact", this is not feasible advice when it comes to financial abuse. Often times, the abuser has a literal hold over the target's entire financial independence. So Shannon offers many creative approaches to managing these impossible situations safely. She also offers an entire section on protection, so this book can help anyone, even people who have not yet experienced financial manipulation.
Thank you to Shannon and all of the people who shared their stories in this great book!
