Redemption: My story of childhood abuse-from brokenness to a lifetime of healing

by CHELSEA FREEMAN

Growing up in a small town in Ohio, Chelsea's life is picture-perfect. A solid, Christian family running their little farm while homeschooling their children is what people see on the outside. But that is far from the truth. Her parents' obscure religious beliefs and tainted thinking are a prison for her to thrive while growing up. Sexual abuse by her father, as well as other trusted adults, are normal occurrences during her childhood. The secrets of abuse and the shame it causes build even-thicker prison walls.



With incredible strength and the support of friends, Chelsea finds the courage to speak up and break free. She learns that true freedom does not come when the abuse stops. It is a long journey of altering her mind and learning the truth of who God created her to be.



This book is a true and raw account of abuse and the damage it does to the hearts of those who endure it. Not only does Chelsea share her pain but also her healing journey and how God has brought redemption from her pain. She explains in detail what has helped her continue to push through and also what has gotten her through many dark, hopeless days.



Chelsea's desire for the book is to bring light to the extreme darkness of abuse and to show others there is hope through healing to those fighting to survive.

186 pages, Paperback

Published July 16, 2024

Reviews

[Graeme Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a courageous, unflinching account of abuse, survival, and the long journey toward healing. Beneath the appearance of a wholesome, faith-centered upbringing, Chelsea’s childhood is marked by control, manipulation, and repeated violations of trust. The contrast between the family’s outward image and the hidden reality creates a powerful and unsettling foundation for the story.

What makes this memoir especially impactful is its honesty. The author does not soften the truth of what abuse does to a child’s sense of worth, faith, and identity. The shame, silence, and psychological imprisonment are portrayed with clarity and emotional depth, allowing readers to truly understand how deeply abuse reshapes a life.

Equally important is the focus on healing. This is not a story that ends when the abuse stops it is a testimony to the difficult, ongoing work of reclaiming one’s mind, faith, and sense of self. Through friendship, courage, and a re-examined understanding of God’s character, Chelsea begins to experience true freedom and restoration.

Ultimately, this book serves as both a witness and a beacon. It brings light to the darkness of abuse while offering hope to survivors who may feel trapped in silence. It is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, redemption is real, and no one’s story ends in their pain.

[Taryn Brubaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know where to begin but the strength it took for the author to write this book is unfathomable to me. It definitely opened my eyes to the importance of mental health and how those on the outside looking in can help those in need. I commend this author for sharing what happened to her throughout her life and her courageous redemption story. I truly believe this can help every reader whether they have trauma or know someone who does.