Article by Suzanne Philips
Photo Copyright Gallery Books/Simon and Schuster
Many fans will recognize the beautiful Taylor Armstrong as one Bravo Tv’s “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills”. This season on the hit show, Armstrong was shown deconstructing. Her severe mood swings and erratic behavior had many fans scratching their heads and even led the other women on the show to come to the realization that she was in dire need of help. After she and her husband Russell split up, Taylor was the one who found him after he had hung himself in his California home. After suffering years of domestic abuse and facing all of the financial consequences of Russell’s untimely death, Armstrong has written a book entitled “Hiding From Reality: My Story of Love, Loss and Finding the Courage Within.” The book, published by Gallery Books, gives fans a glimpse of how Armstrong’s abuse really began in childhood and influenced the choices she made throughout her life.
The book is written in a very honest, no-holds-barred fashion. Taylor really lays herself open to the reader and examines her motivations and choices in every relationship in her life. Many people would question why she would stay in such a physically and emotionally abusive relationship. Armstrong addresses those people and reveals her motivations in a way that is not only moving but lets the reader see a glimpse into her psyche. The book is evocative of a therapy journal and forces the reader to go on the emotional journey that Armstrong must have gone on herself in trying to figure out why she has made the choices in life that she has.
It should also be a good motivator to the many women around the world who are suffering domestic violence in silence. If someone who seemingly has the perfect life can be a victim, then anyone can. I think women of all ages can relate to the book and to Armstrong herself, who is candid and truthful throughout. Hopefully Armstrong’s story will inspire someone who is experiencing their own torment to seek help.
“Hiding From Reality: My Story of Love, Loss and Finding the Courage Within” is available now from Gallery Books. Check with your local bookseller or Amazon.com to get your copy.
It’s such a shame people have to face things like this in life. I’ve never watched the show either, but her candid approach in the book is definitely something to admire. Hopefully it is a comfort and a help to others going through similar situations.
The book has a interesting topic! I guess this would be worth checking out! This would be an eyeopener since we became informed about the abuse many woman experience all over the world.
It is so inspiring to other women when a high profile woman tells her story and admits to domestic violence, gives hope to other women.
Interesting. I’ve never really watched The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills but I think I might change my mind.