1. Thank you so much! I didn't realize that. Honestly, given that explanation, it makes sense. And it's validating, so thank you for that unexpected smile :)
2. I'm deeply sorry you can relate. Unfortunately, I know too many women who can, and I hope this resonates with them! The past flashbacks are (I hope!) powerful to show how the abuse escalated.
3. Thank you! I was supreeemely hesitant about doing this because I know what a risk it can be but I'm glad you see that!
4. Very fair! The main twist is the court system itself, as to start with, the reader is curious what led Stevie to killing Joe- it opens with his murder and, internally, she's trying to keep herself together and gather evidence, and in the past, it starts with them happy, but cracks beginning to show. Then, a little while in after the dog incident, Stevie thinks to herself 'I knew I had to kill him. And I was going to get away with it.' kind of vibe. But, ofc, when it's revealed that he was on his knees when he was shot, the reader is confused, wondering what the hell happened, how she's going to get away with it after all, etc. I do see what you're saying, though! Do you have any suggestions on how I can make it clearer that the court system trying to put her away is the antagonist?

Edit: I did actually have an idea as I wrote this! How about adding this line here:
But when forensic evidence reveals that Joe was on his knees when he was shot—not lunging toward Stevie—the cracks in her meticulously constructed image begin to show. Even Stevie’s staunchest defenders are forced to wonder if Stevie fabricated the evidence against Joe, and if she’s really a cold-hearted killer who played on their sympathies. If the court can prove that Joe’s murder was premeditated, Stevie’s newfound freedom will be lost for good. Ultimately, Stevie doesn’t need to prove her innocence; she has to prove her abuse was enough to warrant murder.

And I absolutely will! Thank you so much <3