3 out of 4 stars
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Countless people find it difficult to deal with the effects of abuse they have experienced in the past. The lasting trauma that stems from abuse, especially sexual abuse, can be nearly impossible for many victims to address. In Mended Yet Broken: Journey to Healing and Wholeness, author Michaelia Daubon gives a personal account about the abuse she suffered during her childhood and what she has since learned on the path to restoration.
From a distinctly Christian angle, the author lays out a narrative that is often thought-provoking. For instance, she points out what happens to individuals who become masters at shutting off their emotions. She describes what forgiveness is for but also what it is not for, which is essential knowledge for victims of abuse. The perspective of women is the book’s apparent focus, with feminine references and examples that would largely appeal to women. Most of the chapters close with a moment of reflection, and the author wisely includes a bibliography at the end of the book, which is great for readers who’ll need further information.
Now, I likely would not recommend this book to someone who is brand new to Christianity or who is unfamiliar with Pentecostal Christian culture. Throughout the book, the author seems to take for granted that the reader will understand the spiritual phrases and metaphors she does not explain. For instance, what does it mean for the “fire of God” to “consume” people? Is it a punishment or a blessing? What does it mean for “the enemy” to use a “foothold” against someone? What is an “alabaster box of worship”? For a lot of people, not all biblical and spiritual expressions are well-known, everyday phrases.
Moreover, it is unlikely I would recommend this book to someone who is looking for an in-depth discussion on the subject of abuse or more of a step-by-step process to promote healing. The author brushes over some parts of her account with vague wording. In several places, she instructs the reader with generalizations instead of providing more detail for greater depth. Readers who would need a series of clear, progressive steps to follow might feel uncertain about where or how to begin applying this book’s information.
Nevertheless, sometimes people simply need to hear from someone who understands their pain and who can give them a foundation of gracious advice. This is the kind of book that can meet such a need. Therefore, I give Mended Yet Broken a rating of 3 out of 4 stars. I’d recommend it as an introduction to healing from abuse, for female readers with solid Christian backgrounds.
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Mended Yet Broken
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