Milton Keynes author inspires men to speak out on domestic abuse
Rob Parkes, opens up about surviving an abusive relationship and foiling a murder plot orchestrated by his ex-wife.
Last updated 26th Jul 2023
Rob Parkes, an author from Milton Keynes, has broken his silence on his experience with domestic abuse and an attempted murder plot that nearly claimed his life. In his candid memoir, 'Married to the Black Widow,' Parkes shares his journey through an abusive relationship and the subsequent custody battle for their daughter.
Parkes revealed, "I was in an abusive relationship, and it's crucial for men to recognize that domestic abuse can affect anyone. It's not just physical; emotional manipulation and coercive control can be just as damaging."
The compelling narrative unfolds with Parkes detailing how he faced emotional manipulation and felt isolated from his support network during his marriage. He explained, "I was completely consumed, told that I was worthless, and had nowhere to turn."
The turning point came during their separation when Parkes discovered his ex-wife's sinister plan to hire hitmen to end his life.
The book delves into the gruelling legal battle that followed, where Parkes fought for custody of their daughter. He emphasized, "I had to prove to the court and society that a separated father is not a bad man. The bias against fathers in custody battles is overwhelming, and many guys simply give up."
Despite the emotional toll, Parkes ultimately gained custody of their daughter. However, the threats didn't stop there. He continued, "Following the custody battle, the dangers escalated with arson and continued solicitation of my murder."
Throughout 'Married to the Black Widow,' Parkes candidly discusses his mental health struggles and the importance of seeking help. He said, "I refused to admit that I had emotional problems or couldn't cope. It was only when I realized I needed to communicate and cope that I began writing this letter, which later turned into my book."
Parkes hopes his story will encourage other men to speak out and seek support. "Men need to recognize that it's okay to talk about their struggles and seek help. Silence only perpetuates the cycle".
Victoria Breeden tried to persuade three different men to murder Rob Parkes between 2014 and 2019.
She was convicted at Chelmsford Crown Court of three counts of soliciting his murder and was jailed in 2020 for nine years and six months.
The book can be purchased here: https://amzn.eu/d/hm4kKqP