We all understand why you are feeling so ashamed while reviewing all of this information you are compileling. It is because you are now looking at all of it with a new prospective, and with new eyes. That saying really is true. “Love is blind” It's supposed to be a good thing. Something that helps us see pass that special someone flaws, and see the true beauty of their soul within. This usually happens after we meet someone face to face. But with the relationships that are developed on line we only have what that person gives us to see. And this is just one of the tools scammers use against us. They want us to be blinded to what is really going on. But now you are seeing the signs and red flags and are most likely kicking yourself in the pants for not seeing them sooner. Well my friend you are not alone in this. There were plenty of red flags for me to see as well, but like you at the time they were missed. If you care to you can read it for yourself. My story is just down the page on this forum. But be mindful. There are certain truths that male victims have to come to terms with and learn to accept. It's an additional kick in the teeth that all of us guys have to face. So if you scroll down toward the bottom of that thread please keep this in mind. It has already been mentioned here, but you may have over look it. Not only can love blind, but pain can blind as well.
b-man
You are also not alone about how you feel about the money you had lost, I was the same. It's amazing how a broken heart can override a broken bank account. However keira is correct. In many ways you are fortunate. I to have known victims that have lost everything, even their homes. I had also thought mine was a prolonged scam covering nearly 7 months. Then encountered victims that had been scamed over a period of years. But I also watched them come through the darkest of days and begin the process of putting their lives back together again. And I had felt well hell, if they can do it so can I. And you will to.I am currently compiling a list of all the information that I saved from the SCAM. There is quite a lot of it and as I do this task it makes me even sadder that I could have been so blind. You will see what I mean when I post it on the (Raven Riley imposter) forum. I fell so hard so quickly that it is bringing me to tears of shame again now writing this.
And over the years I have never come across a victim that could be called an idiot, stupid, or even just dumb. Only nieve of the threat and danger of the low life vermin known as the romance scammer. Victims come from all walks of life and from all over the world. I've seen doctors, lawyers, even a university professor of English literature. All well educated, all very much intelligent people. They still fell victim, so there is nothing to be ashamed about. Those words may not be helping right now, but they are true. So stay strong, you will get through this, and this site is here to help you in anyway we can.
Just keep in mind. There are no time tables, no set schedules. We all heal in our own way and in our own time. And we all end this journey both stronger and wiser.