AN OSWESTRY writer is set to release a book of fairy stories to highlight the issue of abusive relationships.

Julie Leoni will release her new book on Sunday, November 25 to coincide with the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

The book, entitled Into the Woods, is written in fairy-tale form while telling the true stories of women who have experienced domestic violence. Julie hopes that the book will open more people’s eyes to the issue,which affects one in four women at some point in their lifetime according to Refuge and Women’s Aid.

“I think it’s very important to be able to tell your story and to have someone that is willing to listen to it,” she said

“There’s a lot of power in telling your story, for a lot of people it can be a big step towards breaking through the shame brought on by suffering in a relationship.

“One of the book’s main aims is to be able to turn some people’s darkness into light as well as raising money for charity and raising awareness about the issue of domestic abuse.”

Julie, who works as a life coach alongside her role as a teacher at Marches College and Ellesmere College, started working on the book almost three years ago and has had to make time for writing while looking after children and working.

“I’ve been working on the book alongside illustrator Anita Wyatt and Kate Taylor who will be editing and publishing the book,” she said

“We’ve been working on the book for some time between us and have had to juggle it with our jobs and children.

“There’s never a perfect time to do what you want to do in your life, so you’ve just got to make it work.”

The book will be launched at Booka Bookshop in Oswestry between 6 and 8pm on November 25.

Julie, Anita and Kate will read from the book, explain how it all came together and answer questions.

Domestic abuse charities will also be present to give support. Tickets are £12.99 from Booka, with profits going to Montgomery Family Crisis Centre. Profits from the print edition will also go to the charity.

Tickets for the launch can be bought at Booka Bookshop in Oswestry and the book can be pre-ordered from www.julieleoni.com