Leaving - by Kanchan Bhaskar (Paperback)

About the Book

As a young woman in New Delhi, Kay Bhaskar enters into an arranged marriage to a social charmer--only to find that her new husband is an alcoholic with a wildly violent streak, and the system in India will do nothing to protect her. Ultimately, it is Kay alone who plans an escape, not only to set herself and her three children free but also to pursue joy and fulfillment in States, the country of her dreams.

Book Synopsis

As a young woman in New Delhi, Kay Bhaskar enters into an arranged marriage to a social charmer-only to find that her new husband is an alcoholic with a wildly violent streak, and the system in India will do nothing to protect her. Ultimately, it is Kay alone who plans an escape, not only to set herself and her three children free but also to pursue joy and fulfillment in States, the country of her dreams.

Review Quotes

"A gripping story of one woman's self-emancipation from marital despotism."
-Kirkus Reviews

"Through Bhaskar, we learn that while there are cultural differences from country to country, the effects of psychological and physical abuse are the same--as is the abuse cycle. She clearly shows the role denial has in abuse, answering the questions, 'Why doesn't she leave?' and 'Why does she go back?' Even after a woman has escaped her abuser, emotional scars must be healed--and it can take a very long time to recover. This is a detailed journey, taking Bhaskar from a life of fear and pain to one of success and fulfillment."
--Karen E Lee, retired clinical psychologist and author of The Full Catastrophe: A Memoir

"It takes immense courage to leave an abusive relationship. Kanchan Bhaskar's memoir is an easy-to-read roadmap from leaving to recovery and thriving. Her compelling story equips the reader with the means and grit required to rekindle a healthy relationship with Self and others."
--Pat Davenport, CEO of A Safe Place

"Bhaskar is unapologetic in her storytelling . . . Leaving is a gift to the world, born of one woman's suffering and strength, and is nothing short of a clarion call for action to be taken against domestic violence."
--Maria MacMullin, host of Genesis The Podcast