Hello, I am working on a story and later book about a young woman who killed her stepfather after being sexually abused since age 4. She was put in prison, but after serving four years was pardoned by Florida's governor. I wrote columns prior to her release urging for action, citing the Burning Bed Syndrome and questioning why children who grow up and kill their abusers were not allowed forgiveness along with some domestic violence victims.

Am interested in talking with or reading about anyone or any prior cases similar? Data, research, statistics - anything you could suggest would be most appreciated. Thanks a lot, and I appreciate the job you people do. - Mary

First, I want to thank you for your work and for helping to spread the word that incest, unfortunately, is more common than not. Second, I want to refer you to some books that should be helpful - and that cite examples similar to the one you cite. Also, you should know, which I am sure you do, that one in four girls and one in seven boys are sexually abused before the age of 18. The pattern with girls is to continue to be abused and with boys they can continue to abuse.

Now for the books.... there are many books by Judith Herman and by John Crewdson - By Silence Betrayed. Also Phyllis Chesler wrote Women On Trial - and that has many examples. Also there is an organization called MARC - Mothers for the Rights of Children, which help women/children in this situation. Mostly women trying to protect their children from their abusive fathers. Good luck and thanks again.

—Amy