The Man Behind the Curtain, published in 2022, co-authored by Jessica Renee and Valerie Dimino.

Jessica Renee was 11 years old when her stepfather began routinely raping and sexually assaulting her. Only when she was 15 and her boyfriend asked the right questions did the truth come to light—a terrible truth that her mother chose not to believe. Backed by a church community that believed a woman’s duty was to support her husband above all else, Jessica’s mother and countless other family and friends turned against her, labeling her a sinner even as her rapist was convicted.
Throughout the long road to that conviction, Jessica often felt she didn’t have a voice, as she was continually questioned, criticized, and cast aside. She is ready to make her voice heard now and provide a guiding light for those who are still searching for hope.
In calling attention to sexual abuse happening at home, by a family member the victim loved and trusted, Jessica’s story is a powerful addition to the Me Too movement and a rallying cry for victims and allies to rise from the ashes of silence.

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Valerie Dimino has been passionate about writing since kindergarten, when she wrote and illustrated her first short story in marker. She earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in creative writing from SUNY Brockport and has 14 years of professional writing, editing, and marketing experience in higher education, performing arts, and medical informatics. She lives in Lakeville, New York, with her partner, Rich. This is her first book.

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This event will include a reading, Q & A, and book signing. Copies of the book will available for sale. Val has generously offered to donate part of the proceeds to the library.