I understand the practical side of how money affects our lives, and my training as a cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) coach has given me a deeper insight into the emotional side too. But I also know what it feels like to slowly lose yourself in a relationship. It can happen little by little until you feel trapped – even when, from the outside, it doesn't look like money is the problem at all.

When I finally found the courage to speak up and take action, I began to realise just how many other people were struggling in silence too. That stayed with me.

In this book, I bring together what I have learned professionally with my own personal experience. My hope is to help you spot the signs of financial abuse and controlling behaviour, understand the choices you actually have, and start finding your own way forward.

Most of all, I want you to feel clearer, more confident and a lot less alone as you figure out what comes next.

I write under a different name to protect my family’s privacy, and my author portrait has also been created for the same reason. Using a pen name means I can share my experience openly and safely, while giving you information you can use to consider your own next steps – whenever you feel ready.