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Theresa Konwinski lives in Whitehouse, Ohio. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from The Ohio State University and still maintains her nursing license after 49 years in the profession.
Theresa is an emerging writer. Her first writing encouragement came when her short story, The Burial of John Doe, won an Honorable Mention in Writer’s Digest Short Story Contest (2017). Another short story, Justice, appeared in Flame Tree Publishing’s anthology, “Chilling Crime Stories” in 2022. After that, a short story entitled Leaving Hedges appeared in Bewildering Stories, an online journal (Winter, 2023). Theresa penned an essay that appeared in her hometown newspaper entitled Saturday Essay: Good-bye to the Hospital I Grew Up In (Saturday Essay; The Blade; March 12, 2023). Most recently a poem Theresa wrote called First Frost was accepted for publication in Ohio Bards poetry anthology (2023), and another short story, Roadkill Revolt, was published under the pen name of Rachel Lynn in Bewildering Stories (Summer, 2023). This story was co-authored by Theresa’s daughter, Amy.
Theresa loves music—everything from the Beatles to the Foo Fighters, from Beethoven to Copland, from Thelonius Monk to Dave Grusin—quilting and reading, as well as canning and freezing produce from her small-but-lovingly-tended vegetable garden.
Theresa’s writing has been influenced by the likes of T.S. Eliot, John Irving, Robert Frost, Alice Sebold, and her personal favorite—the late, great Ray Bradbury.
Reviewed by Foram Vyas for Readers' Favorite
Survivors' Circle by Theresa Konwinski is a gripping narrative that follows the intersecting lives of three women—Maggie Benson, Jessica Harper, and Detective Lisa Long—each dealing with the trauma of sexual assault. Maggie, a social worker and rape survivor, seeks solace and healing within the Survivors’ Circle, a support group led by Lisa Long. Lisa, who becomes a homicide detective after a colleague's murder, faces workplace harassment while striving to bring justice to the victims. Meanwhile, Jessica, consumed by a thirst for revenge, embarks on a brutal killing spree, leaving her signature ‘JOY’ at each crime scene. As the story unfolds, Maggie and Lisa discover Jessica's deadly secret, leading to a dramatic and heart-wrenching climax on the Anthony Wayne Bridge. The resolution brings justice and a sense of closure, highlighting the resilience and courage of these women.
Theresa Konwinski's writing is both compelling and emotionally resonant, capturing the raw intensity of her characters' experiences with great sensitivity. The plot is well-constructed and fast-paced, ensuring that readers remain engaged throughout the book. Konwinski's ability to intertwine action and psychological depth is impressive, making each character's journey feel authentic and deeply moving. The themes of trauma, justice, and resilience are explored with nuance, providing a powerful commentary on the struggles and triumphs of survivors. The characters are multi-dimensional and relatable, particularly Lisa, whose determination and integrity shine through despite the challenges she faces. Konwinski's handling of such delicate subject matter is commendable, offering a narrative that is both thought-provoking and heart-wrenching. Survivors' Circle is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a must-read for those interested in stories of survival and justice.
