SURVIVING HEARTBREAK VALLEY
Surviving Heartbreak Valley tells the true story of Linda Walls, who endured one of the most devastating losses a mother can face. After leaving an abusive relationship and graduating college, Linda was ready to begin a new chapter—until one night changed her life forever when her four children were taken from her by an act of violence. In the years that followed, Linda rebuilt her life through advocacy, public speaking, and national media appearances—becoming a vital voice for survivors of domestic violence and stalking. Her journey reflects courage, justice, and historic legislative impact, having contributed to early Illinois anti-stalking laws and directly prompted the creation of 725 ILCS 5/115-17a to protect crime victims. Her story has been featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show, ABC News, and in community and legislative efforts that continue to shape national conversations.
ABOUT THE BOOK
FOREWORD
“Surviving Heartbreak Valley is courageous, insightful, and deeply instructive. Linda Walls offers a rare, honest look into the emotional and behavioral dynamics that shape the lives of women navigating domestic abuse and violence. Her resilience and determination elevate this book beyond memoir — it becomes a vital resource for professionals in domestic violence, mental health, public health, and policy development.” — Micah K. Swansey, Psy.D., President, Consulting Professionals Inc.
WHO THIS BOOK IS FOR
This book supports survivors, families, advocates, students, and anyone seeking insight into trauma recovery, resilience, and emotional restoration. It is also a valuable resource for educators, counselors, and community leaders who work with individuals navigating grief or rebuilding after crisis.
READER & PROFESSIONAL REVIEWS
Kirkus Reviews (Professional Summary)
Kirkus Reviews praised Surviving Heartbreak Valley for its emotional depth, clarity, and unflinching honesty. Their review highlights Linda Walls’ ability to transform unimaginable tragedy into a powerful narrative of resilience, advocacy, and personal strength. Kirkus notes that the book offers both a compelling personal story and an important contribution to conversations about domestic violence, trauma recovery, and justice.
“A powerful and deeply affecting memoir of resilience.” — Kirkus Reviews
Phil Angelo, Editor, The Daily Journal
“Linda Walls’ story is powerful, urgent, and unforgettable. Surviving Heartbreak Valley sheds light on the realities of domestic violence and stalking with clarity and emotional depth.”
Patti Pott, Book Review Editor
“Linda Walls writes with honesty and strength. Surviving Heartbreak Valley is both a personal testimony and a guide for understanding the complexities of abusive relationships, the difficulty of leaving, and the long road toward healing.”
Kankakee Public Library Review
“Linda’s presentation of her story was deeply moving and transformative. Her resilience and hope resonated with everyone in the room.”
Amazon Verified Purchase
“A powerful telling of abuse, tragedy, and redemption. Thoughtful, heartfelt, and highly recommended.”
Harry Rush, doc.ret.
“Surviving Heartbreak Valley is a compelling and emotionally resonant book. It reveals the misuse of power in abusive relationships and offers meaningful insights for readers of all ages.”
Reader Reflections
Verified Review via GigSalad
Kimberly D.
April 10, 2019
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Surviving Heartbreak Valley is an emotional and gut-wrenching read. Linda does an excellent job of taking the readers along on the journey with her and making you feel as if you were present in the space with her. As Linda shares her experiences leading up to the loss of her 4 children and how she coped in the immediate aftermath, she paints a vivid picture of her experiences as a victim of domestic violence, answering the age-old question of “why didn’t she just leave him?”. Linda allows reader to see her in the most vulnerable position that one can experience and shows readers how she survived one day at a time. She then takes it a step further by providing realistic solutions to combat stalking. I Highly recommend this read to everyone.
‘Hired as: Author
“This book helped me rebuild my confidence after a season I didn’t think I would survive. Linda’s words felt like a companion.” — Reader, Illinois
“Surviving Heartbreak Valley is a masterclass in resilience. It gave me tools I now use with my students.” — High School Counselor
“I’ve recommended this book to every woman in my support group. It is powerful, grounding, and full of hope.” — Women’s Group Facilitator
“Linda writes with a clarity that makes healing feel possible. This book changed how I understand trauma and recovery.” — Leadership Student
“A courageous story that stays with you.” — Reader Reflection
“A book that helps you breathe again.” — Reader Reflection
“Resilience, faith, and truth — beautifully written.” — Reader Reflection
“A guide for anyone rebuilding after loss.” — Reader Reflection
Media Coverage & National Appearances
Linda’s story and advocacy have been featured across all major national news outlets, reflecting the impact of Surviving Heartbreak Valley and her long-standing commitment to domestic violence awareness and survivor protection.
National Television & Documentary Features
- The Oprah Winfrey Show
- ABC News
- NBC News
- CBS News
- Diane Sawyer’s ABC News documentary Domestic Violence: Faces of Fear
Radio & Community Recognition
- WBBM Newsradio 78 — Citizen of the Week (included a trip for two to New Orleans)
Print & Public Media
- The Daily Journal
- NCADV’s Voice magazine
- Regional and national newspaper coverage of Linda’s advocacy, legislative involvement, and public speaking
This media history reflects the national significance of Linda’s story and the ongoing relevance of Surviving Heartbreak Valley in conversations about domestic violence, stalking, trauma recovery, and resilience.