Gooden, creator of the #WhyIStayed movement, gets vulnerable and gives invaluable advice for domestic-violence survivors in her relatable first book. When Gooden posted the hashtag in response to the infamous video of NFL running back Ray Rice knocking out his then-fiancée, she went viral. At the time, she tweeted the many but oft-misunderstood reasons why she stayed in a violent relationship. Now, she expands on why she eventually left and offers support to those also experiencing abuse. Her directives allow space for people who aren't ready to leave while also offering practical guidance for those who are, such as having an "escape bag" and outlining residency requirements in divorce filings. Gooden's book is raw, especially when she's writing about her complicated feelings towards her ex-husband, but also careful and conscientious. She draws on research and prevailing professional knowledge to analyze and reflect on her thinking process at the time of her abuse and in its aftermath. She also centers her experience as a Black woman, highlighting the struggles unique to survivors with intersecting identities and providing a perspective often left out of the domestic-violence conversation.

Beverly Gooden has written a brave, powerful, intimate book that takes us inside the dynamics of abusive relationships--why people stay, and how hard it can be to leave. The gift of Surviving is Beverly's honesty. Read Surviving to know that you are not alone in your own journey toward self-love after abuse. You will find yourself growing stronger with each page.

So much courage and deep understanding of the complex dynamics of abuse.

Beverly Gooden's book is timely--and her honesty is both illuminating, helpful, and cathartic. It's not easy to tell the truth, but it's necessary.