Most children find a path to happiness with only an occasional ogre along the way. But for Pissant and Cinderella, such is not the case.

In this cautionary fairy tale inspired by true events, Linda Kay Simmons introduces two victims of child abuse who become unlikely heroes. In their small Virginia town, they traverse dark and twisted paths, where even the detours lead back to the hell of home. Sometimes surviving is all there is.

It begins with the sins of the mother, Anastasia, a horrible narcissist who breaks the wings off her babies so they can never fly, and Bastard Man, a neglectful father who thinks his wife can do no wrong. Before long, Golden Prince, the spoiled and abusive first son, makes life miserable for Pissant and Cinderella, the two younger children in the family. Pissant and Cinderella encounter many wicked obstacles on their journey to adulthood, from perversion to personal demons, but through it all, they persevere.

The people who inspired Pissant and Cinderella no longer occupy physical bodies, but their triumphs, paranormal experiences, and even their deaths may help readers cope with personal struggles and learn to believe in powerful realities beyond typical human perception.

The author understands that few people wish to dwell on harrowing events suffered by innocents, so she has employed a light touch throughout much of the narrative. She implores all to respect victims' claims of sexual abuse. If necessary, contact a professional. Do not wait.

A Note from the Author

I once knew the characters in this book. They were adults when I met them, and they found in me a sympathetic ear. I write about them now as they are no longer in bodies, their lives cut short. Their stories are ingrained in my memory, and though my account is highly fictionalized, the framework of the tale is true. The details are drawn from my imagination to add coherence and connectivity.

Millions of people who are victims of sexual degradation and incest often drown their pain in addiction while splitting off into other realities. None of us should be ashamed of where we come from or where we are going, as long as we do our best not to damage ourselves or others.

I hope the real Pissant and Cinderella know that I am writing this story for them and are smiling. They would want this story told if it helps but one child. Linda Kay Simmons