In her recently published book, One Soul, One Survivor, first-time author Debbs Murray recounts her powerful and moving journey into, through, and out of a relationship where there was serious family violence. By sharing her story, Debbs provides insights into the complexities and dynamics of family violence and openly exposes the dark realities of how the person she loved, through insidious and intentional acts of coercive control stripped away every aspect of who she once was. One Soul, One Survivor shares in detail how predominant aggressors of family violence use both physical and non-physical acts of violence to entrap primary victims in the relationship, taking away their freedom and their liberty.
Upon her and her children’s escape, Debbs made a personal commitment to dedicate her life and career to the family violence sector, and for the last 20+ years, she has done exactly that. One Soul, One Survivor is a beautiful weaving together of her personal journey of survival and healing and an informative guide that allows, in a real and raw, yet easily readable way, how to recognise and respond to anyone that may be at risk of harm. Debbs shares strategies, and shines hope into the worlds of those experiencing or supporting loved ones being victimised in the context of family violence.
After being knocked unconscious by the man I loved every part of me felt broken.
One Soul One Survivor tells Debbs Murray’s harrowing yet ultimately uplifting journey. A life of adversity, and extreme violence in adulthood ended in her courageous escape.
Her partner’s use of multiple forms of violence resulted in her entrapment, and the rearing of a deep courage she did not know that she had. Using all that she could summons she broke free with her children, finding freedom and safety.
A born survivor, Debbs now shares her story as a means of hope for those experiencing family violence, and for anyone supporting someone being harmed. Her powerful story serves as both an inspiration and a guide for those seeking answers.
Debbs Murray is the founder of ECLIPSE Family Violence Services and uses her lived experience to train frontline family violence responders and practitioners.
#ImMeImFree
Debbs is on a personal mission to highlight the true position of coercive control in the context of family violence, as an overarching tactic that exists within all perpetrated acts of harm. One Soul, One Survivor shines a spotlight on the many risks of non-physical coercive control, including the very real risk of suicide as a final desperate act to break the chains of entrapment in order to reclaim freedom. This is an unmissable read, one that will, without a doubt, change your understanding of family violence and your mindset.
Follow Debbs' journey as she strives for global change and family violence awareness raising through the #ImMeImFree movement. This is for anyone who has journeyed through any place of darkness and reclaimed themselves in the light. We are selling #ImMeImFree t-shirts to help spread this message. You can order your #ImMeImFree t-shirt here.
If you would like to purchase 5 or more copies of the book and pay via invoice, please email enquiries@eclipsefamilyviolenceservices.co.nz
#ImMeImFree
Reviews
I've been reading Debbs' story non-stop since I received it! Debbs shares her powerful story in a raw and compelling way. Through sharing her story, Debbs vulnerably lets you into her world and the unseen aspects of family violence. The book will help you to gain a deeper insight into family violence and coercive control! A must-read! This book is written for people experiencing family violence, their loved ones, and professionals working with people experiencing family violence!
It sounds weird that I am saying how much I enjoyed reading Debbs' book, but her writing style kept me focused on her story. I like how she gently introduces a subject and gives a warning in other areas. Her honesty is to be admired. Debbs has such a strength of character that gave her the energy to get herself and the children to a safer life. Debbs - you are truly amazing, and you continue to support women/children/men in DV situations. Thank you so much for sharing your story.
I was humbled by the raw and honest approach in every chapter. The very 'real' world that Debbs and many other victim survivors endure is an eye opener and one that all people working in the scope of family violence should read and appreciate. I purchased a further x16 copies to be gifted to participants of the I AM ME pilot currently running in Cambridge. This is a support group for victim survivors of family violence. Thank you Debbs for sharing your story.
Incredibly raw book showing an immense amount of vulnerability around the topic of family violence which is very much taboo. Breaking your silence has helped so many other women recognize the alarming patterns of behaviour that are discrete and hard to describe and your work in the sector is invaluable creating awareness that family violence isn't just "Once we're warriors" it is such a massive issue in Aotearoa and your work is making great leaps towards change. Kia kaha
I put off reading this book for a long time, as I was scared to read about Debbs experiences. I shouldn't have. Debbs writes about the hardest topics with bravery, honesty and self reflection. There is no judgement, just lived experience and support. We are lucky to have such a passionate and committed woman working for our families who are affected. Thank you for writing this book. I truly am amazed at your amazing resilience, bravery and beautiful giving soul.