Child abuse is a difficult subject to write about; even more sensitive is child sexual abuse. When the abuse is incest it is even more painful. J.C. Christian approaches this issue in a straight forward and honest manner in her autobiographical book “Reaching for the Light, An Incest Survivors Story”. Shining a light on her own history she relates her experiences from the tender age of eight when she was assaulted by her step-father through the years of therapy that took her through the darkness into the light.
Christian fearlessly discusses the traumas she faced years after the ongoing sexual encounters had ended. The residual psychological damage caused panic attacks, hospitalization, and intensive counseling in order for her to finally face and conquer her demons.
Crediting the therapists who guided her on her journey as well as criticizing those who did not recognize her pain Christian opens herself to reader’s examination of the events.
While this book is graphic in places, it is designed to raise awareness of the agony victims of child sexual abuse face; the uncertainty, the fears, and the guilt. Betrayed by those they should be able to trust completely they are left floundering with unanswered questions about their own emotions and physical responses.
To her credit, Chttps://www.amazon.com/J-C-Christian/e/B01HR842EC/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1hristian points out that she is a survivor. She has come through the darkness and with the aid of therapists she has reached the light she desperately struggled to find. Her courage must be applauded. This book is an absolute must read for everyone, especially those who have experienced child sexual abuse. It is well written and insightful with a positive message. There can be a light at the end.
Author Bio
J.C. Christian is a new author living in the rolling green fields of Nebraska with her husband, David Christian, a musician. After nearly two decades as a social worker, J.C. is now a full time author and advocate for survivors of childhood trauma.
“Reaching for the Light: Incest Survivor’s Story” tells the very personal story of her recovery from the trauma of incest. When asked why she chose such a personal topic for her first published book, J.C. shared “I wrote this book as a gift of hope, inspiration, and healing for the approximately 40 million women in the United States who are or will be victims of this crime. It’s time we take incest out of the dark where it hides and shine the light on the lives it devastates. The survivors of this crime deserve to be recognized for the incredibly courageous people we are“.
“Reaching for the Light: An Incest Survivor’s Story” is now available for purchase on Amazon.com
J.C. ‘s next book “Searching for the Light Together: Incest Survivors and the Challenge of Relationships” is scheduled for release in February, 2017. The third book in this series “The Light Through the Trees: Trauma Survivors Through the Generations” is planned for the Spring of 2018
Each State designates specific agencies to receive and investigate reports of suspected child abuse and neglect. Typically, this responsibility is carried out by child protective services (CPS) within a Department of Social Services, Department of Human Resources, or Division of Family and Children Services. In some States, police departments may also receive reports of child abuse or neglect. For more information or assistance with reporting, please call Childhelp USA ®, 800-4-A-CHILD (800-422-4453), or your local CPS agency.
Between the Beats 