For all women experiencing violence in a relationship, whether at the hands of a same-sex or heterosexual partner, this book provides affirmation and direction to move past the struggles and start to heal. By drawing from a diverse population and using poetry, prose, illustrations, and the words of abused women, this resource covers the many important and often difficult issues, such as a battered-person's rights, how to leave an abuser, understanding physical violence, lesbian battering, and women's shelters. The guide also addresses many of the reasons why women stay in violent relationships and explains the concepts of boundaries and self-identity.💜