We all want a happily ever after in our marriages, but sometimes life doesn’t work out that way. Scars of Divorce is part-memoir, part how-to guide, focused on navigating the tricky waters of separation and divorce within the Irish legal system.

Author Michelle Browne tells the story of her own difficult, but typical, divorce in Ireland. It was a harrowing and upsetting experience, which dealt with the traditional court system using solicitors and barristers. In telling her story, Michelle examines the process in detail and explains the costs, both financial and emotional, of a legal system that is failing so many couples. She then addresses the alternatives available to the traditional legal route, offering a solution to achieving an amicable separation outside of the courtroom.

Determined to ensure other couples don’t have to go through the same painful process she did, Michelle delves into the new area of mediation. She addresses the many benefits to keeping parenting and separation agreements out of court. And she discusses what more can be done and how we can all help ourselves achieve a less costly, less stressful divorce.

Scars of Divorce explores many different aspects of going through a separation or divorce, including parenting, self-care and life after divorce. It is essential reading for all those facing martial breakdown, as well as anyone involved in divorce law and family mediation in Ireland.