Landmines
by Sheila Vance
Published by The Elevator Group(to come)
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Reviewed by Barbara L. Fielder
Any woman who has experienced the pain of separation and divorce or those who are now experiencing the pain first-hand will discover that they’re not alone in their feelings.
This book is unique in that it is written in a “divorce journal” format by the fictional character Carolyn James. A successful woman in her own right, she teaches writing at a near-by law school and is a wonderful mom to two children. However, Carolyn has difficulty wrapping her head around the fact that her doctor husband, Tom, has destroyed their marriage through his infidelity with his Yoga instructor. He leaves Carolyn to face not only the emotional reckoning of a failed marriage, but the day-to-day challenges of raising the kids, dealing with the financial realities of a single income, managing a household, and career.
Carolyn notes in her “divorce journal” that she is ashamed of her status and is unwilling to share her life with her colleagues and “alleged friends.”
The raw emotional feelings, the sense of being out of balance, and the fear of the unknown trouble Carolyn daily, if not by the minute or hour. She does discover, eventually, that she is able to cope and move forward by putting her faith in God.
Through her travels, trials and tribulations, Carolyn discovers more about herself, her relationships with her children, friends and family, and her faith than she would have without navigating through the separation, divorce and dating experiences.
For woman struggling with separation and/or divorce, this book is a breath of fresh air.
The author has thankfully prepared a reader’s guide “for readers who are going through.” In addition, she has listed over seventy-five prompts to help you begin your journaling success.
Several of the prompts are:
When I realized my marriage was ending…
When I found a lawyer…
When I had to sell my house…
My self-esteem…
It’s not fair…
Carolyn is able to write in her “divorce journal” about her feelings, and experiences; this proves to be therapeutic and liberating. It may be for you, too.
Armchair Interviews says: Many women will find this book comforting.