Black Ice (33 page)

Once again, this book is inspired by the soldiers I've met in my day job. In this case, the veterans of wars taking place every day in homes, behind closed doors: survivors of domestic violence. If you're in one of these war zones, find someone to help you out. You can do it.

To the book sellers and everyone I've met within the book industry: thanks for welcoming me into your world. I'm still trying to find a baddie amongst you (sorry, occupational hazard). So far, no one.

To the whole team at Random House Australia: thank you. For everything.

To Josh: ∞

Dr Leah Giarratano has had a long career as a psychologist. An expert in psychological trauma, sex offences and psychopathology, she has had many years' experience working with victims and psychopaths. She has worked in psychiatric hospitals, with the Australian Defence Force, and in corrective services with offenders who suffer severe personality disorders. She has assessed and treated survivors of just about every imaginable psychological trauma, including hostages; war veterans; rape, assault, and accident victims; and has worked with police, fire and ambulance officers.

Leah is also the host of a prime-time television documentary series entitled
Beyond the Darklands
, in which she delves into the minds of some of Australia's most infamous criminals.