Welcome! Writing this blog and book was probably one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. It was a heart-wrenching process that I put my heart and soul into. But more importantly, it was therapeutic. What once looked like the perfect Facebook life, shattered, now raising questions: Why? If I can save/help just one other person, it’s worth it. By sharing my insights through my journey to break free of an abusive relationship I hope to empower others through wisdom and knowledge to improve their lives.
I am sharing my story, or ‘A year in the life’ of my road to freedom and recovery. Consider it creative fiction or my disillusioned reality “according to him.” Whatever makes you comfortable. We as a society are focusing more and more on empowering women to speak out (the #MeToo movement). This blog will show that abuse in all forms cannot and should not be tolerated. And, collectively we can make a change using our greatest gift — our voices.
This blog contains excerpts from my book “Year of Thorns,” as well as my insights on how I got to that point in my life and what I’ve learned now as part of the healing process and growth to a happy and joyous new life.
Year of Thorns Summary. . .
Kimber had it all—talent, drive, and opportunity—until she sacrificed everything for love. Three decades later, trapped in a toxic marriage, divorce wasn’t an option but a necessity. Her life depended on it.
His controlling and abusive behavior didn’t end when she finally found the courage to leave. In fact, it got worse. Bound by the welfare of her children, Kimber remained in the marital home during the divorce, enduring a living nightmare within walls built from his cruelty. Her existence became a battleground for both her sanity and her safety.
“Year of Thorns” plunges into Kimber’s intimate journal, documenting her relentless battle to break free from a man plagued by a devastating personality disorder. It’s a raw, eye-opening tale of resilience against a backdrop of control and deceit, uncovering the emotional manipulative tactics of a narcissist.
This narrative is indispensable for anyone ensnared in a toxic relationship or contemplating escape, offering a beacon of hope, invaluable insights, and a roadmap to reclaiming freedom.
About the Author . . .
Kimber Foster is a graduate of Western Michigan University with a bachelor of science in communications and psychology. Kimber was born and raised in Michigan where she met her husband of 27 years. Together they raised three amazing human beings.
Kimber worked for a number of years in the non-profit sector raising funds for various charities. While married, Kimber and her husband moved all over the world for his career both within the United States and internationally.With each relocation, she then had to reinvent herself continuing to work but this time in the corporate sector in marketing, event planning and public relations.
To say her divorce was acrimonious was an understatement. After years of abuse both physically and verbally, Kimber didn’t quit her marriage, she survived it. Her book, Year of Thorns follows her personal diary and daily struggles to break free of a person with a severe personality disorder while learning to identify 17 common emotional manipulative tactics on her road to growth and recovery.
Now a survivor, she aspires to create a new happy, joyous Kimber following her passions where she’s created her own company that focuses on interior design, real estate, floral design and art. When she’s not coaching and helping others who are also struggling with a narcissistic relationship you can find her in or on the water.
Believe . . .
To accept (something) as true; feel sure of the truth.
Hold (something) as an opinion; think or suppose.
Believe in yourself, your intuition, your courage, your strength, your future.
Disclaimer
This blog is designed to provide information and motivation to my readers. It was created with the understanding that the author is not engaged to render any type of psychological or professional advice. This blog is not intended to be a substitute for the medical advice of a licensed physician. Nor is this blog intended to give legal advice. Always check with your licensed physician and/or attorney.
The author shall not be held liable or responsible to any person or entity with respect to any loss or incidental damages caused, or alleged to have been caused, directly or indirectly, by the information contained herein. The content is the sole expression and opinion of its author. You are responsible for your own choices, actions, and results.
This is a work of creative non-fiction. The conversations in the book all come from the author’s creative recollections and memoirs. So, while all the stories in this book are said to be my reality and memories, names and identifying details have been changed to protect the privacy of the people involved.
Copyright 2018
