Article by Todd Hambleton
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October 28 2016
LONG SAULT - It was a nasty and painful process to go through a decade ago.
Having her book about divorce recently published? That was a big thrill, for Long Sault resident and first-time author Liane Geoffrion.
"When I got the first copy and held it in my hand, I was overwhelmed with pride," said Geoffrion, author of Divorce Prep, Self-Help Guide. "I call it my baby."
The book project didn't start as one. It was more like a diary, Geoffrion's thoughts being put on paper while "going through my bad experiences."
Geoffrion, when her marriage ended and the divorce battle began, was 63, retired, "and out of money to pay for divorce lawyers," she said.
She ended up representing herself in Family Court without a lawyer for two years, all the time feeling "overwhelmed, scared and alone."
But she had no choice in the matter - "I was fighting to secure my future," Geoffrion said.
She calls her book a "practical guide," offering suggestions and resources for going through a contested divorce.
"The reason I wrote the book is because I felt I needed to share the resources and all of the little (pieces of information many people) don't know about," she said.
Geoffrion, in the book, writes about getting ready to meet a lawyer, including questions to ask and what to watch for. She provides information on resources such as legal websites, counselling resources and agencies.
It's her first book - but hardly her last. In fact, Joyfulness at Last, a book about her life's journey, is scheduled to be published next month.
Geoffrion is calling it a "positive message of survival," life lessons learned from the school of hard knocks," and all of the insights gathered along the way.
"It's about determination, courage and forgiveness," said Geoffrion, who hopes her late offering will help others on similar journeys.
Geoffrion was born in Valleyfield and grew up in Cornwall, attended St. Michael's Academy as a teen.
Geoffrion has travelled extensively and has had several careers including in finance and social work. She's retired now, but still very busy, as an artist, art teacher and a musician.
And, yes, an author.
Divorce Prep, Self-Help Guide can be purchased by visiting the author's website at www.lianegeoffrion.com and clicking on the "Author" tab.
The book is available at Kobo and Kindle stores in print or e-book format.