SHREVEPORT, La., July 22, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- Many women and children are victimized on a daily basis, often by people they love and trust most. In her powerful new book, I Can't See the Azaleas: True Stories of Violence Against Women and Children (now available through AuthorHouse), Dianna Cook Thomas reveals actual accounts of these tragic crimes.
Leaving no holds barred, Thomas exposes some of the vicious acts of violence she has encountered during her service as a police officer. From rape to family abuse to drunk driving, she details horrific events that forever altered or senselessly ended lives. Some of the stories are accompanied by photographs of the victims that, while graphic, illustrate the stark reality of the cases discussed.
Throughout the book, Thomas plants a motif of azaleas. These flowers, known and loved by Louisiana locals for their vibrant color, offer an underlying message of hope as Thomas implores readers to choose life's beauty over the ugliness of violence.
Thomas does not use glossy language to coat these instances of loss and pain. She speaks frankly in plain terms known all too well by those who witness vicious behavior on a daily basis. There is a sense of urgency in Thomas' words, but there is also a healthy dose of compassion. Her spirituality shines through and provides a cushion of comfort just when readers might think that only evil prevails in the world.
The book ends with advice on how to stay safe, steer clear of dangerous situations and avoid destructive behavior that Thomas knows can have deadly results. A gripping read, I Can't See the Azaleas empowers victims of violence and prevents others from becoming potential targets by offering harsh lessons gleaned from real situations.
Thomas has been a police officer for more than 12 years. She received a bachelor's degree in health and physical education from Centenary College of Louisiana and a master's degree in industrial and organizational psychology from Louisiana Tech University in Ruston. Thomas is Armorer Certified and has served as an FBI instructor. She has taught a wide variety of classes for the public and fellow officers and has been honored with several community service awards. Thomas has received numerous commendation letters for her commitment and dedication to serving the citizens of Shreveport, La.
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