It's OK to Tell My Story
Surviving Common Law Domestic Violence
More Than a Story. A Conversation That Matters.
A fiction-based novel inspired by personal experiences, exploring domestic violence, survival, and the journey toward healing and hope. More than just a story, this book includes warning signs, helpful checklists, and practical resources for victims, survivors, alleged offenders, family members, and friends seeking greater awareness, understanding, and support.
Watch the Book Trailer 🎬💖
Because Awareness Can Make a Difference.
Domestic violence thrives in silence and confusion. By providing actionable insights, this novel serves as an educational companion to help individuals recognize unhealthy dynamics and access safe solutions.
Warning Signs of Domestic Violence
Clear patterns and red flags to help readers identify unhealthy behaviors and escalating relationship control.
Helpful Checklists
Structured checklists to aid in evaluating personal situations, safety planning, and next practical steps.
Resources for Victims & Survivors
Over 20 verified organizational tools, safety insights, and guidance for anyone navigating abusive dynamics.
Information for Alleged Offenders
Critical perspective on accountability, breaking harmful cycles, and seeking genuine counseling and reform.
Support for Families & Friends
Practical guidance on how loved ones can listen without judgment, offer real support, and understand why leaving takes time.
Reflection & Gratitude Worksheet
Interactive self-reflection prompts and the super neat Gratitude Worksheet to begin healing and reclaiming joy.
What's Inside the Pages? 📖
Discover the core takeaways and original 15 reasons why this story matters to readers and communities everywhere.
#1: Discover over 20 Powerful resources which help you understand the 'Why' of domestic violence and how to escape safely.
#2: Use the super neat 'Gratitude Worksheet' to help you LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE and start your journey to live, laugh and love.
#3: Find out why 'Change is Hard' and that it's OK to be mad, get angry, be frustrated, but then to let God handle it.
#4: Discover how to 'Learn the Lesson' if someone is making your life difficult; leave and know the strength is within you.
#5: Understand 'You Did Not Deserve This' and the only disappointment is the disappointment of not doing anything.
#6: Realize 'Abuse Doesn't Happen Once', why you don't deserve this and how to change it.
#7: Find out how to 'Never Give Into Negativity, You Will Prevail'—acknowledge the abuse happened and praise God you survived.
#8: Be grateful 'You Are Not Alone and Help is Waiting'—asking for help is NOT a sign of weakness, it's a sign of strength and courage.
#9: Thrive knowing 'Surviving the Aftermath is Possible'—taking back control of your life doesn't happen overnight and it requires faith, strength and time.
#10: Reflect upon 'A Little History Goes a Long Way'—the past was the foundation for what tomorrow presents and what today has given.
#11: Learn to ask yourself 'How Did I Get Here' and why falling in love should not be painful and being in love should not leave scars.
#12: 'Pay Attention - Life Lessons are in Session'—discover in each tragedy there is a lesson and you'll strengthen your soul.
#13: Don't miss this: 'Warning Destruction is Ahead'—don't measure your happiness by others' actions or you'll be disappointed.
#14: How to say to your abuser: 'Your Issues are NOT My Issues'—learn a relationship can only fail if a person chooses not to try.
#15: Find out 'How to Lose a Friend in One Day'—if your heart doesn't feel full of love around your friends, find new friends.
Reader Love Notes 💌
What Military Advocates & Readers Are Saying
"This book is revolutionary, a game changer that is altering lives of domestic violence victims in the Air Force one day at a time..."
Family Advocacy Manager, Seymour Johnson AFB Base
Behind the Story: Meet the Author
Before becoming an author, Gwendolen Wilder navigated experiences that would forever alter the trajectory of her life. Surviving common-law domestic violence and sexual assault, combined with serving 21 distinguished years in the United States Air Force, taught her endurance, faith, and the vital need for truth.
Writing It's OK to Tell My Story became a way to give voice to those navigating silent pain and to provide a roadmap toward healing, faith, and freedom.
Ready to Explore the Story?
Order your copy of It's OK to Tell My Story: Surviving Common Law Domestic Violence and take your next step toward awareness, healing, and courage.
Continuing the Conversation Through Advocacy & Awareness
Explore Gwendolen's national media features, keynotes, and domestic violence advocacy work.
