Sharon Suskin is a retired nurse, grandmother and author whose passion for advocacy was shaped by the women who came before her…her mother, grandmother and aunt. Their stories, set against the rugged backdrop of 1920s East Tennessee, Western North Carolina and Winston-Salem, are at the heart of her debut novel, The Blue-Eyed Butterfly. 

“They endured unthinkable hardships, yet found the strength to rebuild their lives,” Sharon said. “Through my writing and public speaking, I strive to honor their courage, raise awareness and encourage hope for those still on their journey to safety and healing.”

Although she grew up hearing these stories, Sharon didn’t begin writing them until about 20 years ago. At the time, her busy nursing career left little space to finish the manuscript. But, during the COVID-19 pandemic, encouragement from her brother and husband pushed her to finally complete the work she had carried for decades.

A Story Rooted in Truth

The novel’s three central women are drawn directly from Sharon’s family history. “I walked the land they walked, shared many conversations and witnessed their courage, resilience and survival,” Sharon recalled. “I felt their love and shared their tears and laughter.”

While the story unfolds in a time of great change, shortly after women won the right to vote, rural Appalachian communities remained deeply traditional. For many women, especially in isolated areas, abuse was endured in silence, with few options to escape. 

The choice of settling wasn’t a creative intervention, it was dictated by truth. “Because this is based on a true story, the time and place chose me,” said Sharon.

Balancing Truth and Hope

Domestic violence is central to The Blue-Eyed Butterfly, but Sharon approached the subject with care. “I didn’t want to sensationalize pain or re-traumatize readers, but I also didn’t want to minimize the reality,” Sharon stated.

Her focus was on emotional truth, showing that fear, isolation and shame can shape a life, while also portraying the resilience and courage it takes to reclaim one’s voice. “Even in their darkest moments, the characters supported one another, reclaimed their voices and found freedom on their terms,” commented Sharon.

As for the title’s meaning, Sharon said, “People often ask me why I chose that title. But, if I revealed the reason, my readers would be very unhappy with me. Some secrets are meant to be discovered only by turning the page.”

Domestic Violence

While laws, resources and advocacy have come a long way since the 1920s, Sharon points out that abuse still exists in every community. “Survivors today have more resources, voices and advocates,” Sharon commented. “But, the fight for justice, safety and healing continues.”

She highlights that survivors in rural or underserved areas face some of the same challenges women did a century ago, limited access to services, economic dependence on abusers, fear of not being believed and the isolation that makes leaving dangerous.

For Sharon, October’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a chance to use storytelling, especially historical fiction, to open eyes and hearts. “By placing readers in another time and place, it creates a safe distance that allows them to witness the truth without turning away,” said Sharon.

A Nurse’s Perspective on Healing

Sharon’s years as a nurse shaped her understanding of recovery. “Healing, both physical and emotional, is not a straight path,” Sharon commented. “It’s messy, slow and deeply personal.” Sharon believes survivors of abuse embody “a quiet kind of heroism” that often goes unseen.

To anyone experiencing domestic abuse, Sharon offers heartfelt encouragement. “Healing will be a lifetime journey, but as each step is taken, you will find your freedom, your joy and your new pathway in life.”

Sharon also praises local organizations that work tirelessly with survivors, inducing Family Services of Forsyth County, Next Step Ministries in Kernersville and Eliza’s Helping Hands in Winston-Salem.

Opening Doors for Conversation

Sharon hopes her book will spark important conversations in families, classrooms and communities. “I wrote the story to open doors; doors that have been locked for generations,” Sharon stated.

She envisioned families reading and finally feeling safe enough to acknowledge the past; Sharon hopes young women will explore what healthy relationships look like and how to recognize red flags. 

“I hope the book serves as a reminder of the long, invisible history of survivors, especially those who came before services, shelters or legal protectors existed,” Sharon commented. “Above all, I hope it sparks courage to speak, listen and act.”

Looking Ahead

While The Blue-Eyed Butterfly deals with heavy themes, Sharon’s next project will be lighthearted; a children’s story full of fun and heart. 

Her mission, however, remains constant to use her voice, writing and platform to stand with survivors. Sharon encourages everyone to support local shelters, volunteer, donate and, most importantly, listen without judgment.

“Storytelling is not just about remembering,” Sharon said. “It’s about healing…together.”

For more information on The Blue-Eyed Butterfly, visit sharonsuskin.com. The book is available on Amazon.