The Breakable Vow
Kathryn Clarke

Copyright 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
International Standard Book Number: 1-929612-05-2
Library of Congress Catalog Card Number: 00-100774

The Breakable Vow is a sensitive and perceptive novel about dating violence and its effect on one young woman caught up in an abusive relationship. Annie McGowan's story begins in her early teen years and unfolds as she grows older and faces ever-increasing mistreatment from Kevin Griffin, her boyfriend and later husband, whose possessiveness and controlling behavior lead to a pattern of domestic violence.

Written with emotional authenticity and a sense of humor, The Breakable Vow offers insight into the complex character of an abusive relationship as well as practical suggestions for seeking out help and for developing protection plans and support systems.

Following the novel is a section entitled "Understanding Dating and Domestic Violence," which uses checklists, profiles, and illustrative anecdotes to help the reader not only identify and cope with abusive relationships but also recognize and nourish healthy relationships. This section includes a straightforward discussion of date rape and date rape drugs.

Also available is Dating Violence Prevention, a curriculum guide/instructor's manual to assist in developing a prevention program for young persons.

Kathryn Clarke has extensive experience in the field of domestic violence. Clarke worked in the criminal court system for fifteen years, assisting battered women. As a national speaker and instructor, Clarke trained thousands of police officers, judges, states’ attorneys, and counselors.

A former victim, Clarke brings realism and clarity to an often confusing issue. In recent years she has shifted her focus to prevention, providing consulting and program implementation to schools, churches, and women’s groups. She currently resides in County Cavan, Ireland, with her husband and five children.