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Dark Confessions of an Extraordinary, Ordinary Woman
Dark Confessions of an Extraordinary, Ordinary Woman is a raw and emotional coming-of-age story. It follows the author from a fearless little girl, to an insecure teenager, to a confident woman who truly knows her worth in this world. The story begins with the author's crazy and reckless rebellion after her parent's divorce. Alcohol, drugs, and petty crimes were the inevitable consequence of a young child being left to her own devices.
After many dangerous and troubling encounters, Jenn tries to redirect her life path in a positive direction before heading off to college, but instead she ends up falling in love with a man who would nearly kill her six years later. Shane, who she believes is the love-of-her-life, has a kind and gentle heart when they first meet. Sadly his views on the world are later darkened by his best friend's suicide and his father's untimely death. Shane turns to hardcore drug use and their once healthy relationship becomes increasingly dark and destructive.
Dark Confessions of an Extraordinary, Ordinary Woman addresses ordinary issues like teenage rebellion, abusive relationships, drug addiction, and depression in an extraordinarily inspiring way.
After many dangerous and troubling encounters, Jenn tries to redirect her life path in a positive direction before heading off to college, but instead she ends up falling in love with a man who would nearly kill her six years later. Shane, who she believes is the love-of-her-life, has a kind and gentle heart when they first meet. Sadly his views on the world are later darkened by his best friend's suicide and his father's untimely death. Shane turns to hardcore drug use and their once healthy relationship becomes increasingly dark and destructive.
Dark Confessions of an Extraordinary, Ordinary Woman addresses ordinary issues like teenage rebellion, abusive relationships, drug addiction, and depression in an extraordinarily inspiring way.
- GenresNonfiction
109 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2014
2 people are currently reading
745 people want to read
About the author
Jenn Sadai
9 books147 followersJenn Sadai has combined her love of writing with her passion for empowering women into three purposeful series. The Self-esteem Series currently contains three non-fiction stories tackling common issues that affect a woman’s self-esteem.
Dark Confessions of an Extraordinary, Ordinary Woman explores the dark consequences of domestic violence, drug use, and depression. Dirty Secrets of the World’s Worst Employee addresses bullying and sexual harassment in the workplace. Cottage Cheese Thighs delves into how societal expectations and marketing ploys harm our body image.
The Survivor Series, Her Own Hero and Her Beauty Burns, are action-packed, suspenseful fictional stories proving that women have the power to save themselves. Her “True Tales” Series unintentionally began with No Kids Required, the true stories of 20 trailblazing women who’ve chosen not to have children. Women Ready to Rise expanded the series, showcasing 22 inspirational stories of turning tragedies into triumphs.
Jenn Sadai is a proud Canadian, born in Windsor, Ontario, where she resides with her heroic husband and two lovable labs. Jenn can always be reached through the various social media links on her website, www.jennsadai.com.
Dark Confessions of an Extraordinary, Ordinary Woman explores the dark consequences of domestic violence, drug use, and depression. Dirty Secrets of the World’s Worst Employee addresses bullying and sexual harassment in the workplace. Cottage Cheese Thighs delves into how societal expectations and marketing ploys harm our body image.
The Survivor Series, Her Own Hero and Her Beauty Burns, are action-packed, suspenseful fictional stories proving that women have the power to save themselves. Her “True Tales” Series unintentionally began with No Kids Required, the true stories of 20 trailblazing women who’ve chosen not to have children. Women Ready to Rise expanded the series, showcasing 22 inspirational stories of turning tragedies into triumphs.
Jenn Sadai is a proud Canadian, born in Windsor, Ontario, where she resides with her heroic husband and two lovable labs. Jenn can always be reached through the various social media links on her website, www.jennsadai.com.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
November 12, 2015
I decided to revise my review because of the impact this story has on people. It made me finally leave an abusive marriage that I was stuck in for far too long. I recently gave my copy to a young woman who was in a horrible relationship. She ended the relationship within a day of reading it. She said everything in the book reminded her of her own situation. That is the power of this story. Sincerest gratitude to the author for sharing it.
April 8, 2015
This book was a real eye-opener. The author shared personal details of her life, but it felt like she was talking about me. Reading it gave me a new perspective on my own relationship, as well as a new found confidence and zest for life. I highly recommend this book.
April 29, 2014
Dark confessions was a powerful, well written book that delves into the mind of someone trapped. Abuse and a life lived with it, is only too common and this author allows us to understand the question that we all ask; Why? A good read for someone looking to make a change in their life.
September 23, 2015
What’s It About?
Dark Confessions of an Extraordinary, Ordinary Woman is a memoir that address the question, “why do so many women stay in abusive relationships?” This biography follow the life of Author Jenn Sadai, from a rebellious teenager, to a troubled relationship with an emotionally and physically abusive boyfriend, to realizing her dreams of becoming a marathon runner, and a published author. This author’s tale is inspirational, encouraging, and brutally honest.
My Thoughts
I am not often presented with a non-fiction story for review, and interestingly enough, memoirs are my favorites. Often told in first person perspective, reading memoirs gives the feeling that you are sitting down with a friend. Dark Confessions of An Extraordinary, Ordinary Woman did not disappoint.
Some memoirs are a bit pretentious, but this biography was written cleverly. The author worded her memoir in a way that made the narrative flow naturally. This book wasn’t an “easy read” due to the tough subject matter of domestic violence, but it was easy to get through, as the author followed her own timeline of events, and rarely strayed off topic.
“It all started with a rough arm squeeze that I should have never forgiven.”
The author details how her childhood conditioned her to accept a dysfunctional relationship, and how she let her boyfriend dictate her self-worth, like many other women who are in abusive, unhealthy relationships. She later describes how she was able to find herself, and move forward with her life, after letting go of the people who held her back. Relating her life to a marathon, Author Jenn Sadai reaches her goals, one step at a time.
“One foot in front of the other, I kept moving forward until I crossed the finish line. I accomplished my goal one step at a time.”
(One thing I have to mention, because it is driving me crazy, is that the author mentioned in chapter 7 having a $3000 a day marijuana habit. I really hope that was a typo, or that I misunderstood… I don’t even know how it is possible to smoke that much weed in a day, never mind be able to attain that much. Even if it was $300 a day, that is still very hard to believe. $3000 a day would be approximately 30 oz., assuming it is mid-grade. Picture 30 ziploc bags filled to the brim, a day! HOW?!)
All in all, I did enjoy reading this memoir, and I would recommend it because of it’s ease of reading, and the powerful, inspirational message to women. This woman’s story is a testament to the power of self-forgiveness, and believing in oneself. I believe she has the power to reach out and change a struggling woman’s life with her story, and for that, she deserves 5 stars. :)
***I received a copy of this book from the author, in exchange for a thoughtful, fair, and honest book review. This in no way swayed my opinion or rating.***
Full Book Review: https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2015...
Dark Confessions of an Extraordinary, Ordinary Woman is a memoir that address the question, “why do so many women stay in abusive relationships?” This biography follow the life of Author Jenn Sadai, from a rebellious teenager, to a troubled relationship with an emotionally and physically abusive boyfriend, to realizing her dreams of becoming a marathon runner, and a published author. This author’s tale is inspirational, encouraging, and brutally honest.
My Thoughts
I am not often presented with a non-fiction story for review, and interestingly enough, memoirs are my favorites. Often told in first person perspective, reading memoirs gives the feeling that you are sitting down with a friend. Dark Confessions of An Extraordinary, Ordinary Woman did not disappoint.
Some memoirs are a bit pretentious, but this biography was written cleverly. The author worded her memoir in a way that made the narrative flow naturally. This book wasn’t an “easy read” due to the tough subject matter of domestic violence, but it was easy to get through, as the author followed her own timeline of events, and rarely strayed off topic.
“It all started with a rough arm squeeze that I should have never forgiven.”
The author details how her childhood conditioned her to accept a dysfunctional relationship, and how she let her boyfriend dictate her self-worth, like many other women who are in abusive, unhealthy relationships. She later describes how she was able to find herself, and move forward with her life, after letting go of the people who held her back. Relating her life to a marathon, Author Jenn Sadai reaches her goals, one step at a time.
“One foot in front of the other, I kept moving forward until I crossed the finish line. I accomplished my goal one step at a time.”
(One thing I have to mention, because it is driving me crazy, is that the author mentioned in chapter 7 having a $3000 a day marijuana habit. I really hope that was a typo, or that I misunderstood… I don’t even know how it is possible to smoke that much weed in a day, never mind be able to attain that much. Even if it was $300 a day, that is still very hard to believe. $3000 a day would be approximately 30 oz., assuming it is mid-grade. Picture 30 ziploc bags filled to the brim, a day! HOW?!)
All in all, I did enjoy reading this memoir, and I would recommend it because of it’s ease of reading, and the powerful, inspirational message to women. This woman’s story is a testament to the power of self-forgiveness, and believing in oneself. I believe she has the power to reach out and change a struggling woman’s life with her story, and for that, she deserves 5 stars. :)
***I received a copy of this book from the author, in exchange for a thoughtful, fair, and honest book review. This in no way swayed my opinion or rating.***
Full Book Review: https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2015...
January 17, 2016
For young adult/coming-of-age readers, I have to say right away – this is a different kind of story. And I think it has that much more value for its realism, honesty, and personal character.
While I do like the usual fiction YA with all the high-school drama and love triangles, sometimes these books seem too sweet and refined. Predictable. They seldom touch the real problems, the hard ones, the dangerous ones; the ones that people prefer not to dwell on because of their depressing nature. This story is raw and gritty, and it’s that much more powerful because it’s based on the author’s personal experience. Of course, it’s a memoir, not a fiction, but it reads smoothly, and I never wanted to put the book down.
I think it’s important that teenagers and young adults read books like this even if they don’t have this kind of problems. It’ll give them perspective and understanding of how difficult it is to deal with something like this and how important it is to stop at any moment, no matter how much they already hate themselves for something they’ve done. It’s a reminder that there’s always someone out there who’s suffering more than you, and that there’s a way out for everyone. A way to love yourself and get inspired and forgive your mistakes so you can move on and find your confidence once again.
It’s also a book for those who are struggling with abusive relationships. I can’t say I’ve been there, but I did have an abusive boyfriend who was totally okay with verbal bullying and didn’t even notice just how awful he was. It was a much simpler situation, and I guess I needed it to remind me of self-respect and self-compassion. And still, I had some troubles letting go of the situation. I can’t even imagine how much more difficult it is with physical abuse.
Overall, I happily give this book 5 stars and recommend it to anyone who finds the subject interesting!
While I do like the usual fiction YA with all the high-school drama and love triangles, sometimes these books seem too sweet and refined. Predictable. They seldom touch the real problems, the hard ones, the dangerous ones; the ones that people prefer not to dwell on because of their depressing nature. This story is raw and gritty, and it’s that much more powerful because it’s based on the author’s personal experience. Of course, it’s a memoir, not a fiction, but it reads smoothly, and I never wanted to put the book down.
I think it’s important that teenagers and young adults read books like this even if they don’t have this kind of problems. It’ll give them perspective and understanding of how difficult it is to deal with something like this and how important it is to stop at any moment, no matter how much they already hate themselves for something they’ve done. It’s a reminder that there’s always someone out there who’s suffering more than you, and that there’s a way out for everyone. A way to love yourself and get inspired and forgive your mistakes so you can move on and find your confidence once again.
It’s also a book for those who are struggling with abusive relationships. I can’t say I’ve been there, but I did have an abusive boyfriend who was totally okay with verbal bullying and didn’t even notice just how awful he was. It was a much simpler situation, and I guess I needed it to remind me of self-respect and self-compassion. And still, I had some troubles letting go of the situation. I can’t even imagine how much more difficult it is with physical abuse.
Overall, I happily give this book 5 stars and recommend it to anyone who finds the subject interesting!
July 12, 2016
As a fellow sister in survivorship (and writing) I know how hard it is for people to leave reviews of books that deal with difficult situations. No one wants to call a book a "great read" when the content actually shows the author's devastation, but it's hard to ignore the strength it must take to expose your wounds without apology.
So what do you say, right? Do you just rate the book and walk away?
While I understand the strong desire to do this, I refuse to do it. If Ms. Sadai can boldly bare her own scars, there's no reason I can't write a few paragraphs about the impact it would have on myself and others who pick up the book.
Author Jenn Sadai is an advocate for DV survivors by sharing her own story. She helps others analyze their own relationships, but she also helps those who've never experienced abuse better understand the people they love who have survived intimate partner violence. She is a conversation catalyst and a brave, strong woman who used her own heartbreak to help others understand. When survivors stand up like this it forces us to look at a worldwide epidemic. I am thankful she wrote this book and I encourage anyone who wants to know more about domestic violence to pick it up.
A must read.
So what do you say, right? Do you just rate the book and walk away?
While I understand the strong desire to do this, I refuse to do it. If Ms. Sadai can boldly bare her own scars, there's no reason I can't write a few paragraphs about the impact it would have on myself and others who pick up the book.
Author Jenn Sadai is an advocate for DV survivors by sharing her own story. She helps others analyze their own relationships, but she also helps those who've never experienced abuse better understand the people they love who have survived intimate partner violence. She is a conversation catalyst and a brave, strong woman who used her own heartbreak to help others understand. When survivors stand up like this it forces us to look at a worldwide epidemic. I am thankful she wrote this book and I encourage anyone who wants to know more about domestic violence to pick it up.
A must read.
September 8, 2016
Everyone should take the time to read Dark Confessions of an Extraordinary, Ordinary Woman! Go with author Jenn Sadai on her journey as she makes her way through some of the most difficult, trying times of abuse and bad choices that are too common to so many of us, only to find her inner strength and overcome the obstacles that once made her lose sight of how precious life is. Jenn Sadai is so brave for sharing her story and more than that, she's selfless for doing it. She's taken her experiences, the painful ones and the more pleasant ones, and she's put them out there to inspire others, so that we, too, can know we can do anything!! I highly recommend you get a copy of this book for yourself and for all the friends and family you have who have ever gone through a rough patch and could use some words of encouragement (so in other words, everyone you know!).
July 20, 2015
I really enjoyed reading Jenn's story. I felt I could relate to her feelings of being stuck. It's wasn't too long, as an author I think I can take a tip from that. Nice to have a book, you can pick up and say, I'm going to read this this week-end. And it didn't lose me with too much detail and it inspired me in several areas of my life: getting out of toxic relationships, debt, getting fit and getting published. Thanks Jenn!
May 23, 2015
Review coming soon on my blog.
January 3, 2018
The story can be told by so many people, but the strength and courage shown by the author has not only saved her own life by will save many in the future. Is also helps the reader, who may be a friend or family member understand from the victims perspective, the struggles and internal wars that those in a toxic relationship battle daily. And the fact that Jenn is a hometown local woman allowing me as the reader to identify with the city, right down to her apartment location which will have me thinking about her and hoping her world is all good everyday when I drive by. Good easy read! Very educational. Highly recommended need if you are in a toxic relationship or you are battling to overcome or understand
July 24, 2019
"The life you are living now doesn't need to be the life you will always live." The author's quote encompasses a key message in her writing. Despite countless challenges and road blocks thrown at her over a long period of time, she found the strength to do what she knew in her heart was right. This book is a must read for any woman experiencing an abusive relationship.
December 15, 2022
Interesting story that anyone who experience domestic abuse can relate too. I highly reccommend this book.
December 10, 2022
Well told and powerful! It’s vulnerable and honest and brave to have accepted these truths and share. For those curious and for those who have their eyes still closed.
As for you, I know there is always more that could or should be said… but I hope this book left you feeling less alone…
As for you, I know there is always more that could or should be said… but I hope this book left you feeling less alone…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2021
See this review and more on Books and Ladders!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of the audiobook from the author. This in no way impacted my opinion.
A powerful, well written book about someone struggling to leave an abusive relationship. It gives you such great insights into the mind of someone who is "stuck" and can't see the forest beyond the trees. If you've been in this type of relationship, please read with caution.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of the audiobook from the author. This in no way impacted my opinion.
A powerful, well written book about someone struggling to leave an abusive relationship. It gives you such great insights into the mind of someone who is "stuck" and can't see the forest beyond the trees. If you've been in this type of relationship, please read with caution.
August 18, 2016
OK so I'm not normally the non-fiction type, like at all, but this was written by a friend of mine and I like to support my friends. So in I dove.
The reason I've always disliked non-fiction is because there's too much reality in it. I get enough of that crap in my waking hours, so I tend to veer towards books that allow me an escape from life and all it's crazy.
Couldn't do that here.
Though this was an easy read, as in straight forward, no characters to pick apart or layers to peel back kind of read, I personally found it off-putting-for lack better words. I knew Jenn during this time in her life. We'd attended grade school together and high school, and for the most part, I was in the dark about Jenn's life outside of school.
It's off-putting to know that I sat next to someone in science class who's life was such a disaster at the time, and I had no idea. No one did, and that's a sad thing to realize.
I'm not gonna tell ya this is a must read. What I am going to say is that it's an eye-opener and for some it might just be the kick in the ass they need to move forward with their life.
The reason I've always disliked non-fiction is because there's too much reality in it. I get enough of that crap in my waking hours, so I tend to veer towards books that allow me an escape from life and all it's crazy.
Couldn't do that here.
Though this was an easy read, as in straight forward, no characters to pick apart or layers to peel back kind of read, I personally found it off-putting-for lack better words. I knew Jenn during this time in her life. We'd attended grade school together and high school, and for the most part, I was in the dark about Jenn's life outside of school.
It's off-putting to know that I sat next to someone in science class who's life was such a disaster at the time, and I had no idea. No one did, and that's a sad thing to realize.
I'm not gonna tell ya this is a must read. What I am going to say is that it's an eye-opener and for some it might just be the kick in the ass they need to move forward with their life.
November 8, 2016
Amazing.
At first I was a little thrown off by way it was written with the thoughts in Italics but once I was able to get past that it was a fast read.
This book helped me change the way i think and I feel so much stronger. I feel so much better -- I really wish I read this a long time ago.
Thank you so much for being brave enough to share this story and for helping me and others.
At first I was a little thrown off by way it was written with the thoughts in Italics but once I was able to get past that it was a fast read.
This book helped me change the way i think and I feel so much stronger. I feel so much better -- I really wish I read this a long time ago.
Thank you so much for being brave enough to share this story and for helping me and others.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews