Are You Susan?

Hi <<First Name>>,

While not a writer by profession, it was important for Sue Haines to tell you her story without the guidance of a ghost writer. Her style may not be traditional, but it is honest and true. She feels deep in her heart that the life she has lived and the choices she has made were meant to be shared. Please understand that many parts are extremely intimate details that some may say leave her vulnerable, however, she is not afraid.

She knows this memoir was her assignment, as she was to tell you her story in her own words. Her prayer is that her journey somehow gives you not only the hope for a better future, but the permission and ability to forgive everything that has been done to you whether through intention or by accident. Forgiveness is critical.

She wants you to know that you are not alone. We are all broken, each and every one of us, in some way or another, and that is okay. It gives us our humanity. She opens my heart to you the reader. She gives you not only her love, but her joy, sadness, fears, and compassion. She prays that you may experience a better life through forgiveness.

This memoir, over twenty years in the making, reflects her recollection of the events in her life. It was not written in vengeance or to point the finger at anyone for things they may have said or done to her in the past. Some of the names, locations or identifying characteristics may have been changed or left out to protect the privacy of those depicted. The dialogue has been re-created from her memory.

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Are You Susan? Website

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Praise for Are You Susan?

“Your life’s story is touching and well written. It needs to be shared with many! I applaud you for sharing and helping others who may be in a similar situation today. You soar Sue! I laughed, I cried, I was taken back to my childhood for a brief time. But mostly, I was surprised and impressed by the positive change in your life. You successfully turned your life’s path into a positive one. And, with the experience of having been there, you spoke from your heart. Because of this, you have helped many, turning their life’s path around.”
—Mary Chatigny Harding, Carson City, NV

“It’s a great read, Sue. Your story is especially compelling as you came to forgiveness, which is not a common enough outcome for many victims. You are a beacon of hope for victims of any kind, at any point in their lives.”
—Barbara O’Flaherty-Monsma, Sacramento, CA

“Sue, I started reading the book last night and finished it this morning. Let me start by saying how brave you are for being able to share your story. It is very candid. I think most families have secrets and I think it may be more challenging to expose the secrets rather than keeping them hidden away. I’m amazed at the level of openness. You’re a strong woman and I admire you. Well done! This book sends so many messages for others who have experienced trauma and violence, and will hopefully help those who may need guidance and understanding. Keep speaking and writing!”
—Jennifer Trujillo, Walnut Creek, CA

About the Author

Sue Haines, a survivor of domestic violence and restoration advocate, was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. Are you Susan? was guided by her impassioned desire to be of service to others. Equipped with a BA in Human Development and twenty-one years law enforcement experience, she shares her compelling journey of how, after a violent attack on her life, she was able to come to a place of complete and total forgiveness. She did this by God’s grace, her will to thrive, and through the principles of restorative justice. She has spoken to hundreds of audiences across the country, appeared on local cable television, Larry King Live, as well as on two episodes of The Oprah Winfrey Show. She resides in Northern California where she is within close proximity to her children and grandchildren.