"Branded For Life" follows the life of Rick Meadows, a retired detective who dedicated his final years in law enforcement to fighting crimes against children. Rick's experience with the Crimes Against Children unit exposed him to the darkest corners of humanity, where predators inflicted unspeakable evils upon innocent children.
In early May, Rick receives a distressing call that leads him to the life of ten-year-old Shantay, a victim of one of the most horrifying cases of child abuse in the state of Virginia. As Rick delves into the investigation, he uncovers a series of systemic failures that allowed the unimaginable cruelty against Shantay and her sister to persist and escalate.
Through a harrowing behind-the-scenes journey, readers are taken on a race against time as Rick works to rescue Shantay from her dire circumstances. Along the way, he uncovers shocking facts, experiences a transformative redemption, and ultimately brings the perpetrators to trial.
However, the story doesn't end there. A decade later, a new wave of deadly violence emerges, directly tied to the past events. Rick is forced to confront the cruel return of darkness, reopening wounds that never truly healed.
"Branded For Life" not only explores the harrowing tale of Shantay's rescue but also sheds light on the profound impact experienced by first responders who continuously face extreme violence and trauma. The novel delves into the personal toll it takes on those who dedicate their lives to protecting the innocent and exposes the true cost of their unwavering dedication.
Prepare yourself for a gripping and emotionally charged narrative that exposes the depths of human depravity and the unyielding spirit of those who fight against it.
"This book is a story that needs to be told- over and over again. It's visceral, and real, and sad, and empowering, and hopeful, and so many more things."
"Every child who has lived through this kind of trauma and come out the other side needs a champion like Rick in their corner. As a social worker who has heard these stories for years and has believed children, I applaud Rick and every other child advocate who has worked tirelessly to protect children."
"This is one story of so many and deserves for people to hear and know it."
There are triggers in the book - child abuse, child torture, domestic violence, violence against women, murder...so beware.
"I am NOT in the story but it feels like I am."
"I couldn't put it down."
"Thank you again and for sharing such a beautifully written book."
"The story played with my emotions from reminiscing about my own childhood in comparison to Shantay's. The last 5 chapters really got my attention. "
"Honestly, as a reader, your ability to write the story line really made the reader feel a part of the story. Excellent presentation!
You told the story beautifully and from your heart. "