The author specifically looks at the contemporary woman, male-female role stereotypes, services for women, female dependency and weakness, women and child care, women as objects, and risks of the patriarchy to women. She also considers misogyny, extramarital affairs, repeat assaults, pregnancy and male violence, control patterns to avoid, sexual abuse, myths and misconceptions associated with abusive relationships, jealousy, and murder. She focuses on individual obstacles and challenges faced by women involved with violent men, rather than emphasizing or blaming the victim. Further, the book notes specific danger signs that women should recognize, as well as practical advice to help women extricate themselves from abusive situations. The author points out that, in Massachusetts alone, a spouse/partner murder occurs every 9 days and that about 50 percent of female homicide victims are murdered by their husbands or lovers. Actual cases of spouse murder are cited to help women recognize controlling behavior and violence cycles. References