How this book was written

Hello. This is Amy. Writing this book with my husband, Robert, has changed my life and strengthened our marriage.

On Saturday and Sunday mornings, we’d settle into the living room of our “up north” Wisconsin home. It’s tucked way up at the top of the state, just about an hour from the Michigan peninsula. Look it up on a map—you’ll see why locals and regulars call it the Northwoods. The area is mostly state forest, full of deer, wolves, the occasional bear, and our favorite—the bald eagle. It’s our happy place.

This book is entirely Robert’s story—his perspective, his memories, his pain but written mostly by me. It took us more than a year to put it all down. Our routine went like this: Robert would sink into his oversized, weathered brown leather chair with rolled arms and a matching ottoman,staring out at the lake—so calm it mirrored the sky. I’d sit nearby, on the couch or sometimes the floor, with a notepad and voice recorder, capturing every word he shared. During the week, I’d transcribe, research, ask more questions, and shape it into writing. It was a true collaboration. Most weekends, we’d talk for hours until Robert was emotionally spent and had to nap for the rest of the afternoon. Sometimes I’d crash too. I was hearing it all for the first time, and it left me overwhelmed in my own way.

I’m proud of my husband for his bravery—for seeking higher ground and peace. I’m grateful to God for the unmistakable evidence of His hand in Robert’s life from the very beginning. We hope this book reaches those men and women who live under the shadow of childhood trauma. And those who walk beside it. This is Robert’s journey, and it isn’t finished.

✨ If this story resonates with you, we’d love for you to share it with someone who might need it.

Make it stand out

Always doing selfies!