If you are in crisis or an emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.               If you're having suicidal thoughts, call 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk to a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area at any time (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline). If you are located outside the United States, call your local emergency line immediately.

Welcome The World of William A. Stephens Jr.

The Broken Mirror and The Mirror Second Edition take readers inside the life of a combat veteran grappling with trauma and redemption. These award-winning works combine therapeutic poetry and narrative storytelling to serve as tools for anyone seeking hope and healing.

This raw and powerful book shines a light on the silent battles many veterans face after transitioning to civilian life. Nominated for the Eric Hoffer Award and a double-winner at the International Impact Book Awards, The Broken Mirror is a heartfelt confession, a personal reckoning, and a life-saving tool for those suffering in silence. William A. Stephens Jr. shares his struggles, including an emotional apology to his daughter, as a beacon of hope for others walking a similar path.

Internationally Recognized Impact

This book has received major accolades, including winning two categories at the International Impact Book Awards and being nominated for the 2025 Eric Hoffer Award — a true testament to its power and purpose.

A Life-Saving Mental Health Resource

Written as both a personal healing journey and a tool for others, The Broken Mirror offers deep emotional support for veterans, families, and anyone facing the dark aftermath of trauma.

1821 Productions

At 1821 Productions, we tell real stories that matter. Founded by the award-winning author of IIBA: The Broken Mirror, this platform gives voice to veterans, trauma survivors, and anyone battling PTSD. Through the Crawl Walk Run podcast and powerful content, we inspire healing, hope, and the strength to live another day.

This audiobook is dedicated to anyone who has any kind of mental health or any kind of condition that precludes them from reading or even concentrating when they pick up a book to read. I am one of those individuals. I have never read a book from cover to cover except for my very own two books. I know there are many people out there who are drugged up on some type of witches’ brew to make them a zombie so that they are incapable of doing anything but just being relaxed. I would like to introduce you to The Broken Mirror audiobook that was narrated by an army veteran. This is different than other audiobooks because the narrator (not me) has put a lot of heart and soul into each and every word. Because when you hear the inflection in his voice, you will see that he is really telling a story. The Broken Mirror is filled with many entries that will guide you to a much calmer place than where I believe we all were before. Give me a chance and open your mind to this broken world—a mental tool for your mental toolbox and a heartfelt apology to my teenage daughter for the way I treated her mom and her when I returned from my last and fifth combat tour in 2007. This audiobook is for you to resonate and to reflect back on things that you have done in the past, the present, and possibly the future. I am not the only person out there that has serious mental problems. There are others who are worse off. This audiobook was created so if any of you fall into one of the many situations discussed, it will guide you out and away from your demons. It could possibly save your marriage or even your job or career. It could possibly save your life or someone else’s life. In the end, everyone has trauma—and if not, eventually, you will. Thank you for taking the time to purchase and to listen to this mind-blowing audiobook.

Your vote made me an IIBA finalist Non-fiction Self Mastery and Personal Growth

Key Qualities of the Books

More than just books, The Broken Mirror and The Mirror Second Edition are lifelines for those battling inner darkness. These works offer a rare blend of authenticity, advocacy, and award-winning storytelling that resonate with readers from all walks of life.

Authentic Veteran Experience

Written from the frontlines of personal and military trauma, William shares lived experiences that resonate deeply with fellow veterans.

Mental Health Advocacy

These books act as a voice for the voiceless, offering a vital message about PTSD, suicide prevention, and the power of vulnerability.

Award-Winning Impact

Recognized with the International Impact Book Award and nominated for the Eric Hoffer Award, these works blend poetic insight with real-life healing.

Start the Journey — Read the Words That Heal

Don’t just read a story—experience a transformation. Purchase your copy of The Broken Mirror and The Mirror Second Edition today and join the movement to break the silence around trauma and mental health.

A Glimpse Into the Dual Reflections

Watch the official Trailer for The Broken Mirror and The Mirror: Second Edition—a compelling visual journey through themes of identity, transformation, and truth. The trailer offers a powerful preview of the emotional and psychological depth these books explore.

A Combat Veteran’s Struggle with Severe PTSD

Told through therapeutic poetry and heartfelt reflection, The Mirror Second Edition captures the emotional weight of trauma, love, and healing. Drawing from his experiences on the battlefield and beyond, William opens up about the life-altering impact of war and relationships. This book invites readers to look deeper into themselves while connecting with themes of survival, memory, and identity.

Therapeutic Poetry That Heals

Blending storytelling with soulful, accessible poetry, this book acts as a guide for emotional recovery, reaching readers through powerful and relatable expressions.

Deeply Personal & Universally Resonant

With reflections on war, relationships, and identity, The Mirror Second Edition invites readers to find strength in vulnerability, making it a powerful read for those navigating trauma and personal transformation.

Listen. Read. Experience the Journey.

Dive into The Broken Mirror your way whether you love the feel of a paperback, the convenience of an eBook, or the power of a voice that brings the story to life. Available now on Amazon, Audible, Spotify, and Booksby, this inspiring book is ready for you in every format. Choose how you experience the story just don't miss it.

What Readers Are Saying

Readers call these books “life-saving,” “raw and authentic,” and “essential for every veteran and loved one.” With award recognition and heartfelt testimonials, William’s work is already changing lives across the globe.

"I didn’t think a book could make me cry and feel understood at the same time, but The Broken Mirror did just that. William put into words the pain I’ve carried for years. This book reminded me I’m not alone and that healing is possible, even after all the darkness. I keep it next to my bed now."
Samantha Milner
Reader
"Reading The Mirror Second Edition gave me a glimpse into what my husband struggles to say. The poetry and stories hit so close to home — it helped me support him better and also care for my own mental health. Every spouse and family member of a veteran should read this."
Mike Johnson
Reader
"William A. Stephens Jr. is doing something incredibly important. His books are raw, honest, and profoundly therapeutic. I’ve recommended them to several of my veteran clients who found comfort and clarity in his words. These aren’t just books — they’re lifelines."
Emma Smith
Reader
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