Breaking Free "When My Hero Turned Into My Abuser"

"Breaking Free: When My Hero Turned Into My Abuser" is a memoir about a boy struggling through both sexual and mental harassment, how it changed him, and how it informed his growth as an adult. A successful businessman became his father figure, allowing him to live with his wife and children in a welcome escape from his childhood of poverty. Within a few years, however, he felt entrapped by the man's domineering personality and obsession with transforming him into a sexual partner. He rejected the idea but was conflicted by his respect for the man who had achieved so much, given him many opportunities, and made him a surrogate son and big brother. "Breaking Free" raises issues facing the mentally ill, drug-addicted, and closeted gay men. At heart, it recounts a decades-long battle to maintain dignity, overcome denial, and learn positive lessons from an intense connection to a talented, troubled man.

Paul Jones is a retired federal government supervisor, husband, and father who triumphed over childhood poverty and abuse. At age 52, he decided it was time to face his haunting past. He seeks to provide guidance to others, especially African American boys, dealing with situations of abuse and trauma. This New York City native and graduate from The American University currently lives in Charlotte, NC with his wife, Sheila. They enjoy kayaking, competitive table tennis, and line dancing.