Tara Proffitt, a mother from South Wales, has released a powerful new book detailing her extraordinary journey to justice after her mother was brutally murdered and her family's dark past was brought to light.
Her book, The Reckoning, hit shelves last month. It charts how she bravely confronted her grandfather to secure his imprisonment, following the tragic murder of her mother, Alison Connolly, in 2015. Tara, who has now trained as a volunteer counsellor to support other families affected by murder, hopes her story will inspire other survivors.
The Tragic History Behind the Book
The inspiration for the book stems from a devastating chain of events that tore Tara's family apart. In May 2015, mum-of-eight Alison Connolly, 49, was stabbed to death in broad daylight by local bullies, sisters Charice and Amberstasia Gassmann. The pair were later jailed at Bristol Crown Court for 19 years and 12 years respectively for murder and manslaughter.
However, Tara traces the true catalyst for her mother's vulnerable life back to childhood trauma. Both Alison and Tara had been victims of horrific sexual abuse by Alison’s father, Mark (Martin) Connolly.
Confronting the Abuser
Driven by a need for justice before her mother’s funeral, Tara bravely confronted her grandfather alone and secretly recorded his confession. This vital evidence was handed to the police, leading to his arrest.
In January 2017, the 77-year-old monster was jailed for 19 years after admitting to sexually abusing and raping five children over a 40-year period. He later died in prison in 2022.
Reflecting on her journey, Tara said: "He ruined my mum’s life, and he tried to ruin mine, but I didn’t let him. I am a survivor and my mum's strength lives in me."
The Reckoning by Tara Proffitt is published by Mirror Books (£10.99) and is available now on Amazon and in all good bookshops.
