Geraldine D:
Destiny’s Run – Could this life-changing story possibly be true in our modern society?
What can this parent do to protect his daughter – the system dictates a course of action – but the child is at risk. This book is a terrible indictment on a society that seems to be more concerned with defending a mother's reputation than protecting the innocent from harm. Destiny’s Run, a compelling ... must read ... realizing a social structure that is unable to grasp child molestation and domestic violence.
Barry Williams: President of Lone Fathers Australia.
What a story. This is an enthralling read. Laugh, cry, share the anguish and frustration. The really frightening thing is - it could happen to anyone. Thank God there are decent people like Michael Cooper who have the courage to stand up for their children. I am going to make sure politicians reads this remarkable account of injustice. They should be aware. I have recommended Destiny’s Run to all our members and anyone who believes in justice for our children. ‘This book is a must read’.
Shona Blackthorn:
"I have taken my time in reading Destiny's Run, most books I read leave little lasting impact, but not so with author Michael A Cooper's outstanding account of the two involuntary fugitives. At time's I felt I wanted to jump into the book and shout at the top of my voice " for Gods sake help this man save his daughter", but my words would have fallen on deaf ears, just as the father's did, how much can one person endure to save his little girl from deprivation, a life that no-one deserves and my god how hard he tried. I can't even use the word tragic to describe what he went through. I have so much admiration, respect and wonderment for this man. The justice system should take a long hard look at itself. Surely then they would realize that our children are precious and they cannot afford to get it wrong. Wake up and listen.
Let's get honest justice, justice our children deserve!"
Linda Burrows:
"Hello Michael A Cooper. I have read your book twice, it is an emotionally charged journey of a young father simply trying to protect the basic rights of his innocent little child in the face of adversity. All we parents ever want, is for our children to grow up to be strong, loving, stable adults."
Helen H:
Firstly, let me just say WOW!!!! I cannot believe the injustices that happened to the father and child in Destiny's Run. I just cannot imagine what any of those situations would be like individually, let alone all in one lifetime!!!!! The father is an incredibly courageous person & I am so glad that he never gave up on Maddie!
I had quite a normal upbringing & when I was sexually abused by my cousin, it was a very difficult time for me. Thankfully I had both my parents to support me. I cannot imagine how hard it must have been for the father. I have "recovered" from my ordeal with a lot of help from my parents and fiance. I realise I have a lot more to offer than just my body. Abuse is such a hard cycle to break. It doesn't make sense, but every piece of you wants to prove something to your abuser. You seem to need their approval & seek it instinctively. There is a "horrible bond" that ties you to that person or people, so hard to break. Hopefully Maddie will have someone come into her life to help her realise just how much her father did for her and how domestic violence and child abuse can dull the mind and see the perpetrators as admirable people.
I definitely think Michael's book will open people's eyes into the failures of the judicial system. I think it is very well written & must have been incredibly painful, but also relieving to tell the story.
I have been raving about Destiny's Run to everyone so hopefully it will help your sales. Good luck with everything. Well done.
Helena:
I just want to say Michael, your book is quite a harrowing story. To think it's based on a true story is almost unfathomable.
I can't put it down. I'm just praying for a happy ending. Wishing sleep wasn't taking over so I could keep reading.
I meant to email you ages ago about your book. I've now finished it.
Unbelievable, there's not many words to describe it. What an amazing horrific story. Thank you so much for sharing that with me, I feel very privileged.
Gordon T:
As a member of the community that provided safe haven for Maddie and Michael during their fugitive period; while reading Destiny’s Run, I found it disturbing, sobering, sad, also an inspirational read.
For me, this story has five distinct areas: Michael’s tumultuous relationship with his former wife, Sharn and her family – the dedication he had in protecting his daughter - the fugitive years – the jail experience – and the mammoth battles with the Family Court system.
As a member of an alternative Christian based community, my memory of Michael was one of a very likeable, sincere and ethical person, who had embarked on an uncertain and risky future. He was pursued by law enforcement and the relentless media which swallowed all principles to lift their ratings. Reading his story has only strengthened my admiration for this man, who endured so much.
A disturbing read for three reasons: firstly the reality that a child was left in danger by the courts - the harsh realities of Michael’s imprisonment, and thirdly - the unimaginable travesties of justice that were handed out to Michael and Maddie by the courts.
It would seem the Family Court, as a legal institution, has been allowed to evolve into an untouchable law unto itself, where its principle reason for its existence, namely the safety and welfare of children, can be lost amidst angry parents and a self-serving judiciary.
Michael’s story does much to tell how it is. It seems we are kept in the dark as far as the Family Court’s operations and its dealings with distressed parents and vulnerable children, even its blatant denial of the truth. Some judges, lawyers and bureaucrats who work in this powerful framework are responsible for decisions with obvious bias, overlooking a child’s welfare; children like Maddie can be so easily compromised.
As I read my heart ached for Michael, the pain and struggle he endured to protect his daughter, yet I am left inspired by his resilience, spiritual integrity and his purity of a father’s love for his child.
As a teacher in the community school, I saw Maddie as a most beautiful, alert, somewhat impish and engaging child, who had so much potential.
Destiny’s Run is an important story that should be examined by law enforcement organisations and the wider judiciary. There should be a willingness to take on board the legitimate criticisms and respond with willingness to change for the betterment of all who come before it.
Melissa:
Destiny’s Run is a read that kept me involved from the first page. At times frustrating and heart wrenching, it is balanced with unbending love and unexpected humour. This story compelled me to question why the system didn’t seem to comprehend that a child was in danger. I understand the deep-seated instinct to protect my children and in that respect, I appreciate the sacrifices made. This story is an example to every parent or persons who care for another, to listen to their instincts.
Berk and Sandi from the U.S.A.
I believe that Sandi wrote to you that we had acquired Destiny's Run from Barnes & Noble. And I was the lucky one to read it first. As of last night, I am on page 217 and the suspense keeps mounting. I typically read in bed each night for a half hour or so, and then go to sleep. However, I've been finding your book does not readily fit into my pattern, because it is so filled with gripping drama, that when it becomes time to switch off my reading light and burrow under the doona; I'm not sleepy anymore. (In the future I'm going to have to start my reading sessions in the morning.) Interestingly, from your book I am picking up bits of Aussie slang, and also learning about Australian geography and Australian family law, which so incredibly favors a child's mother insofar as custody is concerned. (U.S. law is similar, by the way.) Ignoring the strong bias in favor of Sharn, I think the judges who handled your custody cases were real wankers---to borrow a bit of your slang. Being a barrister myself, I'm afraid some of your barristers were pathetic. All in all, your book is beautifully written and engrossing, and even though I believe I know the ultimate ending, I still can't wait to find out. So far your story should make a remarkable movie!!! I'll give you a final assessment when I've finished reading the book.
Berk from the U.S.A. with an update:
I have just finished reading Destiny's Run and I think I'm ready to provide my final Yankee analysis. I am so glad I found out about your book, Destiny's Run. It is harshly realistic; it dishes out raw facts and makes you question why life has to be like that. Destiny's Run is extraordinary and well-written, so well, that it is both troubling and still very entertaining. The jail scenes are particularly graphic and assure the reader that he or she does NOT want to be there. But even in prison, there is hope. And even in the face of a hostile court system, there is hope. And despite the hostility and depravity of some of the characters, there is still hope. Destiny's Run made me appreciate, there is always hope for a better tomorrow.
Very truly yours, Berkeley, Barrister. U.S.A.
Pauline - Port Macquarie:
I have read Destiny's Run and been captivated by a father's journey to save his daughter from an unspeakable fate. It was brilliantly told in the first person, which gave added impact.
My reading experience moved through stages of great interest, feelings of intensity and of huge injustice. I gained insight into how easily the judiciary can get things so wrong. At times it felt as if evil would overcome good, then it changed again to the opposite. It certainly was a compelling read. I highly recommend Destiny's Run as a work of inspiration and unconditional love. This book has all the makings of a powerful movie. I will be recommending it to my book club.
Donna - Melbourne:
I have just finished reading your incredible journey. I felt your book as if I was living it; the adrenaline, the tears and all of the emotions it brought forward. It made me angry at how the antiquated court left you so powerless to protect your child. You took the only course of action open to you. I felt the love and determination you had to have to save your child. Thank goodness for those who helped you along your way, they were truly a divine intervention. I am sorry if I am rambling, but my words come from my heart. You and your daughter truly are survivors. You are an inspiration to me and I am sure to many others.
