I am Susan Honjo, author of Lifequake, a true story of love, loss, and resilience.

Lifequake was my journey of healing and renewal. Writing became a way to piece myself back together and to raise my voice for all women who have faced violence, injustice, and discrimination.

This book speaks to those who, in the name of love, lose themselves, accepting the unacceptable out of fear, shame, or the fragile hope that love alone can heal what hurts. Many women remain silent, trapped in relationships where love turns to control, because leaving is never as simple as it seems. What many fail to see is that leaving is not a moment, it is a slow and aching decision, shadowed by fear, confusion, and the tangled emotions that love can still hold.

My story is not mine alone. It echoes the struggles of countless women who have endured not only violence, but also prejudice and the harsh injustices of society, because of their origins, their differences, or simply their courage.

I hope that my testimony inspires you to overcome the lifequakes that shake your own world, to find courage, determination, and faith in who you are and in the choices you make.

The protagonist’s name, Saskia, means “valley of light,”, a reflection of my hope to shed light on the silent battles faced by many immigrant women in Switzerland and to awaken empathy and understanding in every reader.

Lifequakes break us open, yet through the cracks, light finds its way in.

Today, I am a new woman, stronger and freer. Writing my story has been my liberation. Life has taught me resilience. We are the true architects of our own happiness.

Like a smile, joy can ripple from one heart to another. I hope my story reminds you that no matter how broken you may feel, you can rebuild and emerge reborn, from your own story.