“Slow Hope” is a multi-layered love story that focuses, among other themes, on child abuse, as well as the church and its initial resistance to psychotherapy. “Slow Hope” does not attempt to convert anyone nor attempt to change the laws of leadership in the fundamental church. “Slow Hope” shows that, as the author states, “with ordinary courage and determination, oppression can be overcome and generational cycles of violence can be stopped.”

Slow Hope

Anne’s family showed little affection.  They were beyond stern and beyond strict.  Their goal was to control her life completely.  Anne had no freedom.  She had a love for music and they tried to quash that.  While in nursing school Anne met Bob, a married, church music director.  He was 17 years her senior.  He was putting together a choir to travel through Europe and asked her to go with them.  He began to show her more and more attention, none of which she encouraged. 

When Bob declared his love for Anne, she was ecstatic, but he was still married.  Once the divorce was final, things went from bad to worse.  Anne’s parents were once again making demands.  Four years later Bob and Anne were married. “It was not a happy event.” Going to the dog races would not be most couples’ first choice of honeymoon activities.  It doesn’t take much to realize that Bob has problems.

Anita Swanson is very courageous to share her story with her readers.  The story is heart wrenching.  Her childhood was one of abuse and that abuse did not end when she became an adult.  She married a man much older than her but I’m not sure why.  She was lonely and perhaps felt it was her only option.  “Slow Hope” is filled with pain, deeply-hidden anger and anguish.  In her own words, “Life goes on.”

Ms Swanson is a talented writer.  Her story is well told and flows smoothly with much emotion.  The cover hints at the story inside.  From the moment I began reading “Slow Hope” I was hooked.  It was late at night when I finished reading but I’d been compelled to read the whole book in one setting.  I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy reading a book about courage.