Hi friends,
Quick note: If you’re on Goodreads, you can follow me here and even leave reviews for any of my books you’ve read. Sending you a <high five> in advance!
I’m glad you enjoyed last week’s tip on using a stomp against an attacker that grabs you from behind. I got a few great ideas back from readers that I’ll be adding to future newsletters. Thanks for all your replies!!
Today, I’m sharing the details of another type of behavior that can warn you about an imminent attack from the amazing book “The Gift of Fear” by Gavin de Becker, which I recommend all women read at least once. (There is some scary/realistic content, so screen it before giving it to your daughters.)
Mr. de Becker’s premise is that an attacker will behave in certain ways to influence a potential victim before the attack. No single one of these seven behaviors predicts that an attack will come, but if you see multiple ones, be warned.
Here’s the list of the ones I’ve discussed so far:
- Discounting the word “No”
- Too many details
And for today:
#3 Charm and Niceness
This one is so simple, but can be very dangerous because . . . it can trick you into letting down your guard.
Scenario #1:
A big man in a scruffy tank-top steps out behind you as you’re walking to the parking lot where your car is way at the back because of the busy holiday shopping season. He’s smoking with a perpetual glare on his face while multiple tattoos snake up both arms and the sides of his neck.
***
Are you a bit worried? On guard? Maybe you turn around and head back into the store to ask a worker to accompany you to your car?
Scenario #2:
A handsome man dressed in a suit steps out of the store behind you carrying a single bag with a few groceries. When you look back, he gives you a charming smile.
“Here,” he says as he takes a few quick steps to catch up with you. “Let me help you with some of those.”
“No, thanks” you say. “I’ve got it.”
“Are you sure? I really don’t mind,” he says as he reaches for one of your bags.
“No,” you repeat, pulling the bag away. “I’m fine, thanks.”
“It’s not a big deal,” he says, reaching out again with a smile. “I’m just in town for a conference, so I only needed to pick up a few snacks to tide me over before the company meal. So, I don’t have much to carry. I’d be happy to help you with these to your car.”
***
Well? Worried or not? And did you happen to notice him using the first and second techniques? Discounting your repeated “No” and sharing too many details in an attempt to disarm your worries?
Yep – he could be much more trouble than the first man with his obviously dangerous looks.
Remember, though, this doesn’t mean everyone charming and nice is a secret serial killer – lol.
Just that charm can be one of several tools used by an attacker to get you to let down your guard.
Stay safe out there and I hope you’re enjoying the holiday season!
All the best,
Misty’s Writing Update:
We are finishing up the third book in our storm series this week and trying to pick a side character to write a fun bonus chapter about for the true fans like you guys.
I really love hearing from you and seeing your reviews go up on Amazon or Goodreads. It means a lot when most of my writing is done in isolation sitting here in front of my keyboard.
Hearing from a reader is the highlight of my day!
If you’ve read Combat Origin, my first in series and would like to leave a few words about it on Amazon, here is the link – just scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on “Leave a Customer Review”:
Review Combat Origin on Amazon
Thanks for taking the time!
And Steph and I are looking forward to finally sharing our storm series with you early next year!
Happy reading this week,
— Misty 🙂
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