Truth Be Told Fiction
The Hearts Behind the Hurt
Francene Gillis is an author, dedicated educator and compassionate listener who has spent years gathering silent stories. Her journey from the classroom to the writer's desk was paved with a commitment to giving voice to the voiceless.
With a professional background and a lived experience that navigates the complexities of trauma and resilience, Francene brings a unique depth to Truth Be Told. Every character and every conflict in the novel is infused with the authenticity of real-world struggles she has witnessed and navigated through interviewing survivors.
Her expertise as a teacher allows her to breakdown walls of silence, while her empathy as an author creates a safe space for readers to explore difficult truths. Truth Be Told isn't just a book; it's a statement on abuse and a too lenient judicial system. In her fictional novel she merges many stories to explore loss of faith because of the abuse carried out in so many organizations and religions. How does one get back to believing when wrongs and crimes occurred? It is the culmination of interviews and experience, with messages we all need to hear when feeling misguided and betrayed. Although the book is fictional it holds vast truth.
Bob Martin is well known as a community leader, for his lifelong professional photography career, and for being a sexually abused child who refused to let his pedophile continue to dictate who he became into his adult life.
He and Dale Sutherland tried and tried again to stand up to a justice system which was, and continues to be flawed, seemingly too entrenched in 'innocent until proven guilty', at the expense of those brave enough to speak up.
He and Dale both wanted the courts to no longer distinguish them in records as RM and DS but as the people and persons they were and are. They continue to fight for the abused and for justice. Both men have become strong advocates and were instrumental in changing laws, winning awards, and helping men and women, on a one-to-one basis.
"We both were truly taken by your words. I had tears in my eyes reading the letter to him. Alvin wanted you to know how much your words have touched us. You get it, you do—the pain, the shame, and hell we and all victims of sexual abuse endure in our lifetime," (Barry, Florida; Alvin, Alberta, two of the men interviewed and referenced, along with Bob and Dale, April 30, 2020).
I cry, and I cry more. I did not intend to talk about the sexually abused and lack of justice and delays in our courts and legislation, but it consumes when the victims are, or were children. After writing the initial articles where I learned so very much, flocks of people reached out. One victim had severe problems coping in his adult life and ended up homeless on the streets. Some can handle the inner turmoil, others cannot especially if there is no soft place to fall. Sexual abuse is often buried in the grave.
Vital change can only come with education and awareness of this insidious crime. If someone comes to you, provide them space, encourage them to see professionals on their terms, when they are ready, and allow for the anger to show, the ranting and raving helps get the poison out of the system. They say talking to someone you respect and trust provides the best medicine and healing.
And parents watch for signs. Whatever you do, DO NOT Negate what takes a whole lot of nerve to say. Be willing to listen. The rejection of someone you thought you could trust is a double whammy. Anyone and everyone working with children should be educated on what to watch for, and more importantly, they should be willing to do something about it. Teachers beware. Parents beware. Our children count!
Watch for more in upcoming blogs as I, in my little corner do what I can to educate and help stop the silent cries, which are much more searing than the ones we hear. Be well and take care.
Truth Be Told
I hope to publish in 2027, Samples Below
"The style of writing is rich and engaging; it urged me to read on, to fight my way past the darkness because I felt an inevitable "truth" would bring me some peace. I think as a reader this book will stay with me long after l finish reading it."
-Patti David (beta reader)
Stephen Rankin Photograph, Francene Gillis Design
A fictional novel shaped by true stories and by the hurt voices that trusted me.
I wrote Truth Be Told as an historical fictional novel to provide distance for the reader on this vital, glass-breaking subject that needs more attention. After I ran a series of features in The Inverness Oran newspaper, the reaction was so widespread, I knew the story had to be told for those suffering in silence. Several themes stood out, and several messages kept reappearing. These are dealt with in Truth Be Told.
Victims should no longer be victimized. Through others I explore emotional torment, bullying, self-doubt, sexual abuse, and a justice system that needs to change.
It is my goal to help others navigate the path of secrets and grooming, and to help them gain control so that their past does not destroy their present. Help me help others.
Dale Sutherland
Advocating for the courage to speak the unspoken.
"Sometimes the bravest thing we can do is tell the truth about what hurts."
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The Brave Catalysts
behind this novel
Truth Be Told began with six abused men who listened, encouraged, and helped others carry what felt unbearable. Their willingness to stand in the silence and offer a steady hand transformed personal isolation into shared heavy-lifting. Two of the men are below.
Their courage to speak honestly about pain, trauma, and healing proved that stories can save lives. It was their vulnerability and authenticity that ultimately inspired this book, showing that even in the deepest darkness, the truth sets the stage for resilience, even if justice is never achieved. Trees do bend though straight and tall, and with the right nourishment, reach the sky!
Bob Martin
Providing empathy and courage during the hardest nights.
