We review a book "Beyond the bruises" by author Matome Ramokgolo. Mr Ramokgolo is a passionate educator and multi-talented creative from Polokwane whose recent literacy work, Beyond the bruises, delves into the painful yet courageous journey of Lucy - a young girl forced into an arranged marriage in a rural village. Through her story, the book explores the silent epidemic of gender-based violence, particularly in underserved communities, and the emotional and physical toll it takes on survivors.