Reader Reflections

As Linda's younger sister, I have been by her side throughout these nearly three years she has spent writing and rewriting Breaking the Silence. I have read the book several times, from beginning to end. When Linda questioned a memory, she would call me in Alaska, and we would recall the people, places, and events from our childhood together.

Reading this book was deeply personal. It was not simply my sister's childhood. It was mine, too. We grew up in the same home, each carrying our experiences in silence, unaware of what the other had endured. It was not until well into adulthood that we realized how much of our experiences had remained unknown to each other.

I can confirm many of the people, places, family circumstances, and memories of the childhood we shared. Linda's personal experiences are hers to tell, just as mine are my own. I have watched her return to those years and continue writing even when it was difficult. What she has done is incredibly brave.

I am proud of my sister for finding the courage to break the silence and to give voice to the little girl I grew up beside.

Linda Gregson gives voice to all the children, young and old, who were betrayed by those who were supposed to love and protect them the most.

Her book, Breaking the Silence, is a courageous, personal account of one woman's journey through sexual trauma, silence, and emotional isolation while living in a dysfunctional family. Gritty at times, her words bring her frightening experience to life.

But more importantly, these same words offer hope to anyone who shares a similar childhood. In today's political and social climate, it is a must-read for anyone who cherishes children and works to keep them safe.

Linda shows remarkable courage in facing a past that was kept secret her entire life. By breaking that silence, she is finally able to speak her truth as a survivor. She can release the guilt that was never hers to carry.

Through her reflections on the key people in her life, she helps us understand the complexity of relationships in abusive situations — the perpetrators are often the people we love. She also shares the challenges of growing up and finding her way while navigating those relationships.

Reading her story, I admired the strength and resilience it took to chart her own path.

Breaking the Silence is for anyone who has experienced childhood trauma, not only sexual abuse, as described in this book. Linda's story is readable. It feels like a friend sitting down next to you and saying, “I have something to tell you that happened a long time ago. I have kept it hidden, but it needs to be told in the light of day.”

Because I have known Linda for more than 25 years, her story hit me hard. I hated knowing that someone had hurt and betrayed this young girl and the adult woman I know and care about in such a devastating way.

But these stories need to be told. Keeping a secret gives it power. I am glad Linda had the bravery to tell hers. Many of us are still holding onto our secrets.

“Breathless” is how I would describe myself while reading Linda's story. I do not know where she found the strength and courage to become the magnificent woman she is, who inspires me daily.

Of course, I had a million questions for her. That is who I am, always wanting and needing explanations and answers. How could a child survive her family? Breaking the Silence gave me those answers.