Survival instincts of a Woman

Instincts

of the author. All the characters in this book are fictitious, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental. Cover photograph ‘Sophia’ by F.G. Ryerson, copyright 2016, back cover photograph, 'Low Key Portrait of Sad Woman Crying' by Sandsun, copyright 2010. Cover layout and design by Thomas A. Ryerson Book edited by Thomas A. Ryerson July 2014 – October 2016. Book edited by Michael Edward

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agedies she faced. Far from a fairytale, Sophia's journey took her from a small village in the Philippines to an underground

to survive. Through her determined perseverance, intelligence, and trust in

or’s

Growing up in the Philippines I didn’t dream of having a career in this industry and I certainly didn’t believe I’d ever be living in Australia. It’s a miracle that I’m still alive, I should have been dead long ago, but I’m jumping ahead. That’s a no-no for beauty treatments and for tel

rson October

Acknowl

Jaime, Crystal, and stepchildren, Joe and Kate: You inspired me to go on living and continue to give my life meaning. Also, thank you for my beautiful grandchildren, Taya, Braycee, Coleby, Jake, Ila, Mason and Mateo. To the biological parents of my children and my stepchildren: I thank God that we met; without you, I would not have these wonderful children to raise and give me inspiration to not only work hard but to also survive under the worst conditions. I would like to thank my family and friends who helped

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