Playing Dead
A Memoir of Terror and Survival
By Monnique Faison
A Note on My Name: You may see my name spelled as "Monique Faison Ross" in past professional records and previous publications, including my work in Lilith Magazine. I am currently in the legal process of changing the spelling to Monnique Faison—a deliberate, personal decision as I embrace this next chapter of my life and author journey.
About Monnique
Monnique Faison grew up in San Diego as the only child of Barbara and Earl. Monnique was raised primarily by her mother, Barbara Faison, an industrial engineer. Her father was a celebrated AFL champion football player and educator. Raised with a strong foundation of strength, intellect, and purpose, Monnique has spent her life balancing a successful career with a deep heart for service.
While her career path took a few twists and turns early on, she found her true calling 19 years ago in Human Resources. Today, she is a passionate global benefits expert and serves as a national board vice president for a non-profit organization. Her powerful writing and advocacy have also been featured in Lilith Magazine. Beyond her professional and advocacy life, Monnique is a devoted mother to her four adult children, a proud grandmother, and an unapologetic dog mom. She loves to travel the globe, but when she is home, she is likely tending to an ever-growing plant collection—and happily admits to being a little too obsessed with Bergs Potter planters. Her love for cherry blossoms, a passion sparked during a transformative three-year chapter living in Japan, reflects her appreciation for growth and new beginnings, themes that also inspire her daily commitment to environmental sustainability.
Writing her memoir was the hardest thing Monnique has ever done. Revisiting a deeply painful, personal story required immense vulnerability, but her motivation was simple: to help others.
Monnique hopes that by sharing her truth, she can reach the people who need it most, offer hope to survivors, and ultimately save lives.
Playing Dead
Take a moment to explore. If you're intrigued and want to dive deeper, you can purchase 'Playing Dead' from your favorite bookseller.
Awards
What Experts and Readers Are Saying
"Engaging, powerful, and ultimately shocking story."
Lundy Bancroft, Author of Why Does He Do That?
"Playing Dead is a compelling book-a true page-turner. Smart, strong and protective of her children."
Patricia Evans, Author of Controlling People
"This book was riveting from beginning to end. As a high school teacher I would highly recommend this book be used with students in a life span, health, or family development class to warn them of the dangers of abusive relationships."
Sandy
"One of the best I have read in a long while. Keep me at the edge of my seat, I couldn't put it down read it in a day in half. Highly recommend. Scary, but brave and very important to get the word out for the next generation speak about the difference between healthy and an unhealthy relationship."
Jeanette
I ALWAYS watch investigation discovery and crime shows. I am so fascinated by them, and I LOVE memoirs. My favorite thing to read is a crime biography told in the first person BY the actual person.
Trish
This real life story was so engaging you just couldn't put it down. It is scary to think that someone close to you can become so violent. Monique's strength and persistence to make it through this horrific situation is more than inspiring This book has my highest recommendation!!!!
Anonymous