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Object: A Memoir of Childhood Abuse and a Shocking Cover-Up at the Highest Ranks of Government
What happens when an American diplomat is exposed as a sexual abuser of young girls?
In her searing memoir, Kristin Louise Duncombe takes us back to her childhood in West Africa, where her life is a tapestry of lazy family days by the pool and secret abuse at the hands of an esteemed member of the close-knit US Embassy community. When the assailant is outed by one brave girl and more preteens come forward, the scandal is hushed up by the State Department, the parents’ fight for justice goes nowhere and the abuser is simply transferred back to Washington. But the consequences for the girls he assaulted will last a lifetime.
Duncombe tells her globe-trotting story in dual timelines – her struggle as a traumatized teen to navigate her sexuality against a backdrop of abuse, and her life as an older-but-none-the-wiser adult seeking self-worth in unfulfilling relationships. When she finally finds the courage to leave her complicated marriage, it is by facing the demons that have haunted her since childhood.
Object is a coming-of-age story twice once when a little girl grows up too fast, and a second time, in middle age, when the woman she has become finally heals. This important book is a fierce indictment of the silencing of girls and women in the United States and abroad.
In her searing memoir, Kristin Louise Duncombe takes us back to her childhood in West Africa, where her life is a tapestry of lazy family days by the pool and secret abuse at the hands of an esteemed member of the close-knit US Embassy community. When the assailant is outed by one brave girl and more preteens come forward, the scandal is hushed up by the State Department, the parents’ fight for justice goes nowhere and the abuser is simply transferred back to Washington. But the consequences for the girls he assaulted will last a lifetime.
Duncombe tells her globe-trotting story in dual timelines – her struggle as a traumatized teen to navigate her sexuality against a backdrop of abuse, and her life as an older-but-none-the-wiser adult seeking self-worth in unfulfilling relationships. When she finally finds the courage to leave her complicated marriage, it is by facing the demons that have haunted her since childhood.
Object is a coming-of-age story twice once when a little girl grows up too fast, and a second time, in middle age, when the woman she has become finally heals. This important book is a fierce indictment of the silencing of girls and women in the United States and abroad.
- GenresMemoirNonfiction
252 pages, Paperback
Published August 13, 2024
24 people are currently reading
6124 people want to read
About the author
Kristin Louise Duncombe
3 books50 followersKristin Louise Duncombe is an American therapist, life coach, and writer who has lived in Europe since 2001. She has based her career on working with international and expatriate families following her own experience of growing up overseas as the child of a US diplomat, and having lived internationally most of her adult life.
Her first book Trailing: A Memoir, chronicles her experiences becoming a “trailing spouse” and following her Médecins Sans Frontières husband to the frontlines of disaster and disease in East Africa. Her second book, Five Flights Up: Sex, Love, and Family (from Paris to Lyon) provides a compelling glimpse into love, family, and sex in France, and a modern family grappling with the inevitable downs - and ups - of building a new life.
Her forthcoming title (August, 2024) OBJECT: A Memoir, has been called "a therapist's memoir" that chronicles "a global childhood marred by sexual abuse, a shocking cover up at the highest echelons of government, and a riveting tale of self-discovery and survival."
For more information and photos from Kristin's books, go to https://www.instagram.com/kristin_lou...
or
https://www.facebook.com/TrailingAMemoir
Her first book Trailing: A Memoir, chronicles her experiences becoming a “trailing spouse” and following her Médecins Sans Frontières husband to the frontlines of disaster and disease in East Africa. Her second book, Five Flights Up: Sex, Love, and Family (from Paris to Lyon) provides a compelling glimpse into love, family, and sex in France, and a modern family grappling with the inevitable downs - and ups - of building a new life.
Her forthcoming title (August, 2024) OBJECT: A Memoir, has been called "a therapist's memoir" that chronicles "a global childhood marred by sexual abuse, a shocking cover up at the highest echelons of government, and a riveting tale of self-discovery and survival."
For more information and photos from Kristin's books, go to https://www.instagram.com/kristin_lou...
or
https://www.facebook.com/TrailingAMemoir
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
August 14, 2024
A wonderfully written, brilliant memoir that will leave you breathless.
Brave and honest, Duncombe's memoir blew my mind with its powerful message, beautiful prose, and relatable voice/experiences. #metoo Ultimately, this courageous story about the ways we heal (and sometimes don't) from the past will leave you breathless, inspired, and full of hope. #amustread
Brave and honest, Duncombe's memoir blew my mind with its powerful message, beautiful prose, and relatable voice/experiences. #metoo Ultimately, this courageous story about the ways we heal (and sometimes don't) from the past will leave you breathless, inspired, and full of hope. #amustread
August 18, 2024
This book is the product of hard work and bravery. It is one thing to go through abuse as a young age, and something totally different to go back and examine that abuse to understand how it led to or created self-sabotaging patterns later in life. How that abuse could cause someone to discount their own worth unless it is validated through the approval of others. Kristin has taken a deep dive into her own life to understand how the abuse from her past laid the groundwork for problematic sexual relationships throughout her adulthood and to try to change this pattern in a meaningful way. She has identified her version of the mask that all women wear to be accepted in the world, and laid it bare to show others that it is okay to speak out, value one’s own self, and be your own champion.
October 20, 2024
More like 2.6 stars.
I won this book via Goodreads givaways.
I'm not quite sure how I fell about this book. The writing is done well and it's an easy read but at the same time, I'm really conflicted about how I feel about the story and the author. The author went through something horrible and unimaginable. Knowing this, it's hard to judge her actions but at the same time, I wanted to shake her and be like don't you see this is all connected?! Overall, it's an okay but the blurb doesn't really do the book any favors because what I thought the book was going to be about (or more about in a way), turned out not to be the case.
I won this book via Goodreads givaways.
I'm not quite sure how I fell about this book. The writing is done well and it's an easy read but at the same time, I'm really conflicted about how I feel about the story and the author. The author went through something horrible and unimaginable. Knowing this, it's hard to judge her actions but at the same time, I wanted to shake her and be like don't you see this is all connected?! Overall, it's an okay but the blurb doesn't really do the book any favors because what I thought the book was going to be about (or more about in a way), turned out not to be the case.
March 13, 2025
Object is a therapist's memoir, a fracture in a young girl's identity, a global childhood marred by sexual abuse, a shocking cover up at the highest echelons of government,and a riveting tale of self-discovery and survival into adulthood. Duncombe is the queen of writing memoir, but Object is my favorite.
October 31, 2024
FROM INDIE READER:
OBJECT: A Memoir of Childhood Abuse and a Shocking Cover-Up at the Highest Ranks of Government is about the sexual abuse of a young girl by a trusted member of a close-knit community of workers and families at the U.S. Embassy in the 1980s. In this beautifully crafted and intimate memoir, Kristin Louise Duncombe reveals the effect the abuse had on her and how its repercussions profoundly impacted her adult relationships and self-esteem. Told in a split narrative that switches between a child’s perspective of her abuse and an adult’s attempt to come to terms with (and overcome) trauma, the book is both brutally frank and deeply touching. The devastating impact on Duncombe was compounded by a cover-up instigated by the State Department, which saw her abuser simply transferred back to the United States, unpunished and unprosecuted.
Duncombe’s family moved to the Ivory Coast in 1979, as her father had gotten a job at the U.S. Embassy. Though her surroundings initially felt like a culture shock, the young girl soon adapted to her new home—somewhat cocooned by the insularity of the Embassy and its provision of familiar home comforts. One day her world changed forever when what began as a normal afternoon of sport and relaxation took a horrific turn. Duncombe’s deft prose conveys the scene as she spent time at the pool with friends and familiar adults: “Mrs. Mulcahy swam lazy laps, her red flyaway hair pinned in a bun with bobby pins. Still, long tendrils escaped, sticking to her face like a beard. She craned her neck to keep her face from getting wet, and her bright red lipstick and pale skin made her look like an exotic sea animal.”
What happened next comes as a shock to both the reader and the young girl. By skillfully conjuring an initial picture of playfulness and tranquility, Duncombe’s recollection of her abuse is brutally efficient in revealing the callousness of her abuser. His opportunism, his brazenness.
Duncombe’s subsequent attempts to process what is being done to her and her inability to speak out are poignantly recalled: “It was like knowing the lyrics to a song, but only inside my head; when I tried to sing them out loud, they disappeared.” In fact, that notion of being unable to process and explain her situation extended well into her adult life—as is made clear in the parallel narrative set in the late 2000s, which also touches on the rise of the #metoo movement. With OBJECT, Duncombe is finally able to give a voice to her silenced childhood; it is both inspiring and empowering.
OBJECT: A Memoir of Childhood Abuse and a Shocking Cover-Up at the Highest Ranks of Government is a powerful memoir of childhood abuse and its aftermath. Kristin Louise Duncombe’s lyrical prose provides a compelling narrative, charting the shock and trauma of her experience before arriving at a place of liberation and optimism.
~Kent Lane for IndieReader
OBJECT: A Memoir of Childhood Abuse and a Shocking Cover-Up at the Highest Ranks of Government is about the sexual abuse of a young girl by a trusted member of a close-knit community of workers and families at the U.S. Embassy in the 1980s. In this beautifully crafted and intimate memoir, Kristin Louise Duncombe reveals the effect the abuse had on her and how its repercussions profoundly impacted her adult relationships and self-esteem. Told in a split narrative that switches between a child’s perspective of her abuse and an adult’s attempt to come to terms with (and overcome) trauma, the book is both brutally frank and deeply touching. The devastating impact on Duncombe was compounded by a cover-up instigated by the State Department, which saw her abuser simply transferred back to the United States, unpunished and unprosecuted.
Duncombe’s family moved to the Ivory Coast in 1979, as her father had gotten a job at the U.S. Embassy. Though her surroundings initially felt like a culture shock, the young girl soon adapted to her new home—somewhat cocooned by the insularity of the Embassy and its provision of familiar home comforts. One day her world changed forever when what began as a normal afternoon of sport and relaxation took a horrific turn. Duncombe’s deft prose conveys the scene as she spent time at the pool with friends and familiar adults: “Mrs. Mulcahy swam lazy laps, her red flyaway hair pinned in a bun with bobby pins. Still, long tendrils escaped, sticking to her face like a beard. She craned her neck to keep her face from getting wet, and her bright red lipstick and pale skin made her look like an exotic sea animal.”
What happened next comes as a shock to both the reader and the young girl. By skillfully conjuring an initial picture of playfulness and tranquility, Duncombe’s recollection of her abuse is brutally efficient in revealing the callousness of her abuser. His opportunism, his brazenness.
Duncombe’s subsequent attempts to process what is being done to her and her inability to speak out are poignantly recalled: “It was like knowing the lyrics to a song, but only inside my head; when I tried to sing them out loud, they disappeared.” In fact, that notion of being unable to process and explain her situation extended well into her adult life—as is made clear in the parallel narrative set in the late 2000s, which also touches on the rise of the #metoo movement. With OBJECT, Duncombe is finally able to give a voice to her silenced childhood; it is both inspiring and empowering.
OBJECT: A Memoir of Childhood Abuse and a Shocking Cover-Up at the Highest Ranks of Government is a powerful memoir of childhood abuse and its aftermath. Kristin Louise Duncombe’s lyrical prose provides a compelling narrative, charting the shock and trauma of her experience before arriving at a place of liberation and optimism.
~Kent Lane for IndieReader
September 12, 2024
Kristin Louise Duncombe's "Object: A Memoir" is an intense and insightful account that delves into the enduring effects of childhood sexual abuse, along with its aftermath in institutional silencing. The title itself - "Object" - holds great significance, as it highlights how both the author and other individuals who suffered a similar fate were dehumanized to become nothing more than mere objects for their abusers' manipulation, devoid of autonomy or control over their own lives. The title also reflects the broader theme of objectification, not just physically but psychologically, as the girls' experiences are ignored and their voices are muted.
Duncombe's memoir is written in a deeply personal yet engaging tone, making readers feel as if they are listening to a close friend recount their most vulnerable moments. The narrative shifts between two timelines—her 1980s childhood as an embassy kid and her adult life in 2016-2017—creating a layered perspective on trauma and healing. The dual structure adds depth to the story, as readers witness how the abuse permeates both her early years and her adulthood, shaping her relationships and self-worth. Duncombe's portrayal of the agony caused by both abuse and its emotional aftermath is startling. Despite this, there is still a sense of optimism in her narration as she reasserts control over her own narrative. Her sincere depiction of the healing process resonates with readers who
have confronted obstacles in their lives - irrespective of whether they've gone through trauma or not.
Overall, the memoir portrays immense strength and resilience, presenting an inspiring account of bravery that illustrates the demanding path towards reclaiming one's narrative after undergoing trauma. Duncombe's story remains potent with courage and honesty that will undoubtedly touch many deeply, and it is definitely a must-read.
Duncombe's memoir is written in a deeply personal yet engaging tone, making readers feel as if they are listening to a close friend recount their most vulnerable moments. The narrative shifts between two timelines—her 1980s childhood as an embassy kid and her adult life in 2016-2017—creating a layered perspective on trauma and healing. The dual structure adds depth to the story, as readers witness how the abuse permeates both her early years and her adulthood, shaping her relationships and self-worth. Duncombe's portrayal of the agony caused by both abuse and its emotional aftermath is startling. Despite this, there is still a sense of optimism in her narration as she reasserts control over her own narrative. Her sincere depiction of the healing process resonates with readers who
have confronted obstacles in their lives - irrespective of whether they've gone through trauma or not.
Overall, the memoir portrays immense strength and resilience, presenting an inspiring account of bravery that illustrates the demanding path towards reclaiming one's narrative after undergoing trauma. Duncombe's story remains potent with courage and honesty that will undoubtedly touch many deeply, and it is definitely a must-read.
October 4, 2024
The memoir Object by Kristin Louise Duncombe is an intensely personal and unvarnished account of trauma, resiliency, and recovery. Duncombe considers the trauma that molded her identity as she looks back on her early years and her life as an immigrant via her story. The book eloquently chronicles her experiences in many nations, from the Ivory Coast to other areas of the world, where she grappled with the lingering consequences of abuse. She deftly explains how trauma, which was frequently covered up and repressed when she was younger, finally surfaced as she developed into a survivor. Duncombe’s writing is both honest and introspective, offering readers a profound understanding of her journey. She vividly draws the characters around her, including her family and influential figures from her past, providing a powerful exploration of the relationships marred by abuse and secrecy. Duncombe describes being groomed by her best friend's father, a well-known member of the US diplomatic community, and the State Department's subsequent cover-up in one of the most terrifying discoveries. In spite of these terrifying incidents, Object succeeds as a tale of inner power and development, highlighting the concepts of fight, survival, and metamorphosis. Readers interested in the significant effects of tragedy on personal growth and the path toward recovery and self-discovery should definitely read this memoir.
September 18, 2024
We feel all the feels with Duncombe’s narration, from the disappointment to her grant being denied, her elation at the possibility of visiting the U.S with her children who had never been there. I applaud the author’s candidness in explaining the tribulations in her relationship from the first chapter - the insecurities and lack of knowledge of how to truly connect with the spouse that people go through after years of romantic union, the not looking eye to eye on finances, and Tano’s affair. It’s one thing to write one of these in fiction, and another, as part of a memoir.
And that’s without getting into her experience of childhood sexual abuse at some of the highest area of privilege in the United States, and how despite it having effects in her adulthood, she consciously makes the choice and steps to start healing from it. Duncombe has definitely lived through a lot, and has the knack of writing it down in a relatable, emotional way. She respectfully deals with a pointed subject and finds a way to provide actionable steps, by telling her story of going to therapy and becoming a therapist herself, to truly heal from the terrible things that happened to her.
I see this memoir as claiming ownership of her personal story despite all the challenges, and applaud her bravery for writing it with such captivating prose.
And that’s without getting into her experience of childhood sexual abuse at some of the highest area of privilege in the United States, and how despite it having effects in her adulthood, she consciously makes the choice and steps to start healing from it. Duncombe has definitely lived through a lot, and has the knack of writing it down in a relatable, emotional way. She respectfully deals with a pointed subject and finds a way to provide actionable steps, by telling her story of going to therapy and becoming a therapist herself, to truly heal from the terrible things that happened to her.
I see this memoir as claiming ownership of her personal story despite all the challenges, and applaud her bravery for writing it with such captivating prose.
September 13, 2024
A Thought-Provoking Story of Resilience
OBJECT: A Memoir of Childhood Abuse and a Shocking Cover-Up at the Highest Ranks of Government by Kristin Louise Duncombe is a touching memoir. Kristin’s story is a true reflection of the rot in the society. Her ordeal is an example of many untold stories of how those in higher positions act with impunity and abuse the defenseless instead of protecting them.
Through her resilience, determination, and by putting this work down, the author becomes a voice to the voiceless who suffer in silence. By telling her personal story without fear, Kristin helps raise awareness about the need for action to fight for and protect the rights of the oppressed.
The author did a great job at explaining and recounting the events of her past and how they impacted her adult life. The language choice and use of a conversational tone makes the story relatable, descriptive and easy to follow. Moreover, her story telling skills are top-notch. I was immersed in the story and filled with empathy for Kristin wishing that she and many others with similar experiences will find justice some day.
I loved reading OBJECT: A Memoir of Childhood Abuse and a Shocking Cover-Up at the Highest Ranks of Government and I highly recommend the book to everyone as a way of helping raise awareness. This is a must-read.
OBJECT: A Memoir of Childhood Abuse and a Shocking Cover-Up at the Highest Ranks of Government by Kristin Louise Duncombe is a touching memoir. Kristin’s story is a true reflection of the rot in the society. Her ordeal is an example of many untold stories of how those in higher positions act with impunity and abuse the defenseless instead of protecting them.
Through her resilience, determination, and by putting this work down, the author becomes a voice to the voiceless who suffer in silence. By telling her personal story without fear, Kristin helps raise awareness about the need for action to fight for and protect the rights of the oppressed.
The author did a great job at explaining and recounting the events of her past and how they impacted her adult life. The language choice and use of a conversational tone makes the story relatable, descriptive and easy to follow. Moreover, her story telling skills are top-notch. I was immersed in the story and filled with empathy for Kristin wishing that she and many others with similar experiences will find justice some day.
I loved reading OBJECT: A Memoir of Childhood Abuse and a Shocking Cover-Up at the Highest Ranks of Government and I highly recommend the book to everyone as a way of helping raise awareness. This is a must-read.
December 16, 2024
Kristin Duncombe's Object is a must-read for anyone wanting to understand the patriarchal society we live in and how a culture that consistently puts men first profoundly harms women and girls. Duncombe was the victim of childhood sexual abuse by the father of her best friend. If that wasn't bad enough, the families were in the US Foreign Service, and when the US State Department learned of the man's abuse of many children, they covered it up and did virtually nothing to help the victims and their families. Object weaves between Duncombe's painful youth, her teenage years of rebellion and coping, her young adult life of trying to please men and get their attention, and her mid life of seeking healing from her lifetime of trauma at the hands of men. Duncombe writes her story with honesty and care, and I found myself tearing up numerous times throughout. While it may be hard to read about abuse, it is essential that women tell their stories, and that the rest of us hear them. This book is about the path one woman took to overcome her trauma, but even moreso, it is about healing, independence, and finding the courage to love oneself.
September 15, 2024
OBJECT: A Memoir of Childhood Abuse and a Shocking Cover-Up at the Highest Ranks of Government written by Kristin Louise Duncombe is one of those books that opens the readers eyes to what's going on today. It takes a lot of courage and confidence to be vulnerable and let people into one's life like Kristin Louise Duncombe did. To share not only her trauma but her inner thoughts the way that she did was brilliant and riveting. To tell her story was not only brave but sheds light so that other people can relate to her story. There were moments where I laughed, moments where I cried, and moments where I wanted to knock someone out. Every emotion that I felt was brought out by Kristin Louise Duncombe's story. This book was such a good read that I will check out her other books. I recommend anyone who likes to read nonfiction stories or memoirs to read this one. Anyone who reads this memoir will not regret it. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
September 16, 2024
OBJECT by Kristin Duncombe I can say is a book that everyone should read. I love that the writer chooses to be vulnerable and tell her story as it is. This allows the reader to connect with it as deeply as possible. It is sad to see how childhood traumas have adverse effects on people even as adults. This is evident in Kristin’s writing. There are also numerous lessons that you can glean from this book. One that really stands out for me is the term “fawning”. Most people know about “Fight, flight, or freeze” but less about “fawning”. I can admit that I fit this group of people. Fawning is mainly a form of self-defense mechanism for people who undergo any form abuse. I love that the writer lets the reader into her life as a child growing up as well as an adult. However, this does not interfere with the flow of the story in any way. I can really recommend this book to anyone who really wants to experience healing from their traumatic experiences! This was an enthralling read!
August 29, 2024
This was a tough read! And not because it isn’t beautifully written exposing us to horror, trauma, raw emotion, vulnerability, and a large-scale government cover-up. It is also a story of reflection, healing and friendship. It is all of this and more. But, it’s a tough read for me because this story is partially mine. (I am the “Fran” in the book). I am beyond proud of my courageous friend for sharing her (our) story as it is a must read for all. Kristin’s writing and the telling of this gut-wrenching story is personal and heart-felt…and I am not just saying so because I know her. This book is for anyone who has been through something similar or knows someone who has experienced similar trauma. It is through this that the conversation ensues, the “me toos” come forward and the healing continues.
September 18, 2024
Duncombe's latest release is her emotional memoir describing her experience as a victim of childhood sexual abuse and the harrowing effects it had on all aspects of her life as she grew older. The book is told in two timelines, one timeline follows Kristin from the age of ten through her early twenties, while the other follows her through her early middle aged years. Despite the two timelines, the author seamlessly transitions between them both, with chapters never having a halting or abrupt ending. Readers will easily be able to follow both plot lines without worrying about becoming confused. Duncombe's writing is so immersive that I couldn't put this book down. This story of healing and resilience gives a voice to the voiceless, shedding light on the emotional, psychological, and social effects of sexual abuse. Readers will be thinking about this memoir well after the last page.
September 11, 2024
Kristin Duncombe's story was hard to read although it was well written. Most victims of s*x*al abuse, especially children, don't come forward for various reasons and Kristin was one of them. It took another little girl telling her parents her story for it to come to light. What was most appalling was that the US government chose to overlook the abuse and protect the abuser! (In the end, it took the rape of his granddaughter to put him behind bars for 5 years and when he was released, he became homeless for his family didn't want him around). I felt the pain Kristin felt, even though she may not have been aware of it at the time she was experiencing it and I'm glad that with a therapist, the little girl inside received healing, the adult version experienced healing and she was able to break the dangerous choices she was making, find her boundaries, and that her story had a happier ending.
If you have experienced any type of abuse, while this is a hard book to read, it would be a good one to read, and I encourage you to seek out a good therapist, who could help bring you healing.
If you have experienced any type of abuse, while this is a hard book to read, it would be a good one to read, and I encourage you to seek out a good therapist, who could help bring you healing.
September 5, 2024
I was blown away by this book from the first page. Author Kirstin Duncombe paints a captivating, raw, and brutally honest narrative about her experiences both as a mature woman in a failing relationship and a young girl experiencing constant sexual abuse. At times it makes you jerk in your seat, other times you sympathize with her on a deep level.
Duncombe not only details her experience with sexual abuse, but displays the ripple effect it had on her life even into adulthood. Her way with words makes it easy even for non SA victims to understand her pain. Its a thoroughly engaging book, and the fact that it's rooted in reality makes it even more interesting. Great read!
Duncombe not only details her experience with sexual abuse, but displays the ripple effect it had on her life even into adulthood. Her way with words makes it easy even for non SA victims to understand her pain. Its a thoroughly engaging book, and the fact that it's rooted in reality makes it even more interesting. Great read!
May 26, 2025
This is hands down the best memoir I had never heard of. I read it as part of a book club and I’m so grateful that the member who selected it did so.
The author’s raw honesty and vulnerability make this a powerful journey of self-discovery. The way she moves between timelines keeps you hooked, and the writing is tight.
There are some sad and desperate moments as you witness a child lose her innocence at the hands of a predator, but don’t less this scare you; the courage it takes to read it must be minuscule to the courage it took to write.
It’s both heart-wrenching and inspiring. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for a genuine, compelling read.
The author’s raw honesty and vulnerability make this a powerful journey of self-discovery. The way she moves between timelines keeps you hooked, and the writing is tight.
There are some sad and desperate moments as you witness a child lose her innocence at the hands of a predator, but don’t less this scare you; the courage it takes to read it must be minuscule to the courage it took to write.
It’s both heart-wrenching and inspiring. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for a genuine, compelling read.
August 24, 2024
I have just finished reading this book by my husband's cousin, Kristin Duncombe. It is an excellent book and I would highly recommend it. Kristin opens up about her experiences growing up as an expat child and young adult and how those experiences affected her through adulthood. Sadly, she experienced abuse at the hands of of a man in a position of power which was swept under the rug by the state department. I admire her honesty and relate to her as she walks through her pain. Well worth the read. Beautifully written. You can order on Amazon!
February 12, 2025
A true story that reads like a novel. This is a story of how a bureaucracy swept abuse under the rug with lasting implications for the girls who were abused, including the author. But it’s also the story of a woman dealing with the repercussions of her past and learning to love herself and make choices that are best for her. The story may instill feelings of anger and/or sorrow, but it also provides hope. As someone notes near the end of the book, “It’s never too late to tell your story, and get a better ending.”
September 11, 2024
Kristen Duncombe recounts extremely personnel childhood episodes of sexual harassment and abuse. These experiences took her years to overcome, especially in the face of authorities who initially did nothing to stop the abuser.
I was struck by the honesty and the poignancy of Kristen's story. A must read for all women who have suffered similar experiences and have dealt or are still dealing with the trauma. Her story can bring understanding and hope to move on with one's life.
I was struck by the honesty and the poignancy of Kristen's story. A must read for all women who have suffered similar experiences and have dealt or are still dealing with the trauma. Her story can bring understanding and hope to move on with one's life.
September 11, 2024
This was a difficult read. The author wrote this book beautifully and is well detailed, but it was really tough reading the parts about the abuse and the trauma that followed.
The author gave detailed explanations on how the trauma from the abuse showed up in her life and relationships without her being aware and the facade she wore to make herself easily accepted by society. I also loved reading the steps taken to self-reflection and healing. This is a great book.
The author gave detailed explanations on how the trauma from the abuse showed up in her life and relationships without her being aware and the facade she wore to make herself easily accepted by society. I also loved reading the steps taken to self-reflection and healing. This is a great book.
August 14, 2024
A compelling read
I could not put this book down. The author has a way with words, like you’re listening to a good friend. You’re cheering along with her as she finds her strength and true self. It’s also a book about hope. I would love to see this used in University classes - from examples of exceptional writing to important issues of women’s studies. Definitely recommend!
I could not put this book down. The author has a way with words, like you’re listening to a good friend. You’re cheering along with her as she finds her strength and true self. It’s also a book about hope. I would love to see this used in University classes - from examples of exceptional writing to important issues of women’s studies. Definitely recommend!
August 14, 2024
Kristin Duncombe's gift as a memoirist is in retelling her experiences in ways that relate to what her reader has lived. We all want to know if we can shortcut the pain of life and learn the secrets to self-acceptance and love and being whole. OBJECT is devastating and enthralling; a bombshell of a book and a must read for any woman on a journey to healing.
August 14, 2024
A gripping and wrenching story about the lifelong struggle to deal with child sexual abuse. The writing is raw and honest and brave. The book is beautifully structured and masterfully tells the story of the abuse in and its aftermath, and Kristin’s eventual ability to process what happened to her and move forward in an enlightened, healthy way. I couldn’t put it down.
September 1, 2024
So brave! I met Rose and her sisters a few years ago. I had no idea of this history. My heart breaks on many levels.
September 2, 2024
I loved this book! It’s an incredibly brave and necessary book, and brilliantly written. I could not put it down.
September 20, 2024
A Powerful Memoir of Self-Realization and Healing. This is is an excellently written memoir about a woman coming to terms facing, recounting, and understanding the sexual abuse she experienced as a child and the repercussions it had on her as a girl, a teen, and later as an adult woman in terms of her self perceptions and life choices. Therapy helped her deal with these things and I think also helped lead her on her path to become a therapist who helps others. I think that her experiences, reactions, and perspectives will resonate with many women - they certainly did with me. This book is very thought provoking about the situation we find ourselves in as women - often feeling like objects in society. She deals with some tough subject matter, but I think this book will interest a wide range of readers - women and men. There are a lot of observations, epiphanies and life lessons for a wide audience. It is a fast read too - I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend.
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