The debut by Shannon Thompson helped me in ways I will never forget and I can not thank her enough for writing.After talking about an emotionally abusive relationship for years, one I began to believe would never get better, Shannon finally offered me something that no one else ever had.The truth.I should say that I am not a big champion of the idea that all arguments are a two street. I’ve also not reconciled that there are two sides to every story and both parties are either right or wrong.This allows for the truth to become more of an ‘idea’ than tangible fact. That doesn’t mean this isn’t ever the case. Not at all, but it shouldn’t be assumed it’s just the way relationships are.And yes, honesty is hard to come by, andit’s hard to accept that only one person may be to blame. It’s opens a Pandora’s box of scenarios.However, when you are experiencing the impulse to accept the reverse, without any reason to back this up, you’re allowing the concept of honesty to be an allegory.Or a story told merely for personal gain or to manipulate the narrative.The knee jerk reaction to not believe others, especially friends or family members, with no real proof they’re lying, can lead your loved one to not only rationalizing their pain to the point of accepting it, but believing they deserve it.The belief a person going through abuse isn’t being understanding enough, or that what they are telling you is merely an exaggeration, about something they’re struggling with, may lead to truth becoming something symbolic.An allegorical narrative to persuade you to their side, instead of something they need to talk to you about. Something they need help with.And of course some people do this, some people lie. But also, some people are afraid to speak up out of fear. This book isn’t for those who doesn’t believe you, it’s for the survivors. It helps you trust yourself enough to accept the absolute truth.Abuse is not love.While I myself obtained a Graduate Degree in Psychology, I didn’t gain the perspective of being in a powerless situation unless I was in one. I studied and taught enough to know, but not enough to understand.Shannon managed to finally be the only person who seemed to write about how abuse is always wrong. Physical, emotional, financial, and more doesn’t have to be justified because of the abusers past or current life situation. You do not deserve to lose your agency and sense of self because someone else tells you so. You also don’t have to be greatful that the abuse isn’t worse.I have re-read this book since getting out of the relationship years ago and it still holds up every time I read it.I would recommend it to anyone. Whether or not they you are currently in a relationship, I still believe it’s a pivotal read to learn the first signs and red flags of emotional abuse.Healing From Hidden Abuse helps to understand abuse by explaining the stages and signs of love-bombing, the use of triangulation, recognizing a partners sudden dark change in behavior, and generally knowing in your heart that is wrong to be afraid of your partner’s treatment toward you.If you can recognize these behaviors beforehand, you can better protect yourself and get out as sooner!5 Stars!