Alligator In The Ocean
Follow the harrowing journey of one family as they fight to break free from the sinister grip of a cunning serial predator. This true story creatively chronicles their resilience against adversity and how they reclaimed power to secure safety and justice and ultimately to find peace in the face of unimaginable danger.
Unmasking Evil: The Fall of a Predatory Criminal
This inspirational true crime story exposes the dark double life of a seemingly respectable citizen who preyed upon defenseless children for nearly four decades. From the early 1950s to the late 1980s, he hid his life of crime behind a facade of trustworthiness, leaving a trail of trauma on vulnerable lives as his landmark.
Discover how one family stopped this predator’s crime spree and how they overcame trauma, sought justice, and found healing. Alligator in the Ocean is an inspiring story of resilience, hope, and the power of breaking silence.
A Powerful Endorsement from a Leading Voice in Trauma Therapy
Dr. Heather Davediuk Gingrich, a leading expert in trauma therapy and author of Shattered No More: Hope and Healing for Survivors of Complex Trauma, shares high praise for Alligator in the Ocean. She commends the book’s honest, artful storytelling—particularly the way it moves between child Alexandra’s lived experiences and adult Anina’s courageous path to recovery.
“In my decades of counseling those who have gone through similar hells… Anina gives voice to the experience of countless other childhood trauma survivors.”
We are honored to receive this endorsement from Dr. Gingrich, who currently serves as Director of the Graduate Certificate of Trauma Therapy at Toccoa Falls College. Her words affirm the mission behind Anina Swan’s memoir and the heart behind every page.
Endorsements
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"What makes this survivor account unique is the way in which Anina Swan has crafted her story to give the reader a glimpse into the rocky road that the journey towards healing from childhood trauma involves."
—Heather Davediuk Gingrich, Ph.D., Director, Graduate Certificate of Trauma Therapy at Toccoa Falls College.
Author of Restoring the Shattered Self (for counselors/helpers), Shattered No More (for survivors), and co-editor/contributor to Treating Trauma in Christian Counseling.
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"She weaves three narrative points of view—one of the child victims in third person, her adult self in first person, and the predator through his letters to his wife. Without the ugly details, Swan masterfully reveals the stages of discovery, vindication, and healing."
—Janet Holm McHenry, award-winning author of twenty-seven books, including the best-selling PrayerWalk: Becoming a Woman of Prayer, Strength, and Discipline
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"Anina writes powerfully of her journey with God from a life of betrayal, abuse, danger, and confusion into radiant health and trust in Him. She skillfully shares her experiences in a way which does not mitigate the details of the crimes committed against her, but rather shows how God used those very events to build her faith and bring her to healthy, Godly adulthood."
—Arlene Hendriks, Author, Treasures out of Trauma, a guide to biblical teaching on healing from trauma. Hearts Being Healed Ministries, Board Member/Speaker. GEMS Ministries, Founder.
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"I am wowed and moved. Alligator in the Ocean is a rare and precious gift. Through the short point-of-view chapters, Anina reveals how hope emerges alongside pain, and how freedom gradually deepens through relationships and faith. This book is like a wise, kind friend walking alongside the reader’s own journey, offering both solace and direction."
—Jan Kern, author, life coach, spiritual director, and advocate for courageous storytellers
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"The healing journey needs to begin in order for it to end. Anina’s book is a must have. It will provide hope and guidance to complete this journey.”
—Dr. James Torkildson Ed.D CCTP LP, Licensed Psychologist, Clinical Services/Supervision, Speaker, Trainer, Author
To victims, their families and communities, there is hope for healing as I am a witness…
My journey from victim to survivor taught me that healing, while challenging, is possible. The path isn't always straight or easy, but each step forward matters. Through sharing my story, I've seen how breaking the silence can empower not just individuals, but entire communities.
