The Longest War

“In The Longest War: A Psychotherapist’s Experience of Divorce, Custody, and Power, author Catherine Harrington offers a personal and moving story about a taboo in society that to this day is still hidden in dark corners. People try to pretend that it does not happen, although nowadays they do recognize violence against women. What about the type of violence that shows no physical wounds but has a mental and psychological effect on the person on the receiving end? The author has bared her soul about the mental and psychological war that was waged against her for 29 years, the effect it had on her life and her own capabilities, and how she doubted herself and still does. This is an awe-inspiring story…This is a book that you will read and realize that, at some stage in your life, you were also subjected to emotional and mental abuse. You will realize how subtle it was so that you did not even realize it. This book is well worth more than one read and will give other women out there the courage to break free from the cycle of abuse for both themselves and their children. I found a lot of inspiration and hope in this book.”

“The Longest War is a nakedly, starkly written, and ultimately inspiring book. It is the story of a woman who walked for years through hell, to discover—through her own courage, love, and divine grace—her unique voice and her true independent, elder-self. Everyone who is blessed enough to find and read her witness will absorb essential lessons for a freer life.”

“The result is a memoir to which many readers will relate, and one that effectively shows the importance of recovery after trauma.”

“…Dr. Harrington has written a page turner that tells her story of childhood, divorce, parenting, and life with honesty, wisdom, and courage…will touch your heart and give you hope.”

“This narrative of a true hero’s journey is harrowing, graceful, and uplifting all at once.”

“…A beautifully written testimony to a woman’s right to claim her power.”

“Dissolution of a marriage and a struggle for child custody can both try the soul and reveal one’s character, especially when the legal process becomes a civil war. Catherine’s story demonstrates the triumph of courage, maternal love, and eventual joy.”

“Dr. Harrington’s tale of a years-long custody dispute illustrates how money and love are irrevocably intertwined in the dissolution of a family and how wielding the power of money can become a destructive force in relationships.”

“Divorce is an ugly business, made harder when one partner has more power than the other…The reader can’t help but cheer Harrington on in this heartbreaking account of how she fought back—and discovered her inner strength in the process. I was deeply moved.”

“In a vividly written and honest memoir, Catherine Harrington shows how coming to terms with her pain from childhood created the strength she needed to survive a long custody battle and maintain relationships with her sons. Such a path takes work and generosity.”