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Scarred: A Memoir of a Childhood Stolen and a Life Reclaimed
A memoir of trauma and transformation by a man who was haunted by childhood abuse but who fought his way back—a journey from vengeance and prison to freedom and redemption.
For a boy growing up in the 1970s, rural northern New Jersey was a year-round playground, filled with secret fishing holes, enchanted woods, and private trails to explore with friends. But this childhood idyll was snatched from Clark Fredericks by a man he regarded as a local Dennis Pegg, the town’s Boy Scout leader, a law enforcement officer with the Sussex County Sheriff’s Department, and, as Fredericks would discover, a serial predator.
Through his teenage years and young adulthood, Fredericks kept silent about the horrific abuse he experienced, turning to drugs, alcohol, gambling, and sex addiction to numb the memory. For decades, he remained tormented by shame, unable to share the secrets that were eating away at his psyche—until he violently confronted his abuser.
At once heartbreaking and uplifting, Scarred is the story of a man who overcame the destructive aftereffects of violence and abuse that nearly destroyed him. Now an advocate for victims and a prominent voice in support of child abuse law reform, Fredericks powerfully illustrates the healing power of love and trust.
For a boy growing up in the 1970s, rural northern New Jersey was a year-round playground, filled with secret fishing holes, enchanted woods, and private trails to explore with friends. But this childhood idyll was snatched from Clark Fredericks by a man he regarded as a local Dennis Pegg, the town’s Boy Scout leader, a law enforcement officer with the Sussex County Sheriff’s Department, and, as Fredericks would discover, a serial predator.
Through his teenage years and young adulthood, Fredericks kept silent about the horrific abuse he experienced, turning to drugs, alcohol, gambling, and sex addiction to numb the memory. For decades, he remained tormented by shame, unable to share the secrets that were eating away at his psyche—until he violently confronted his abuser.
At once heartbreaking and uplifting, Scarred is the story of a man who overcame the destructive aftereffects of violence and abuse that nearly destroyed him. Now an advocate for victims and a prominent voice in support of child abuse law reform, Fredericks powerfully illustrates the healing power of love and trust.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published July 29, 2025
228 people are currently reading
2901 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
July 17, 2025
Scarred by Clark Fredericks. Thanks to @atriabooks for the gifted copy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*Trigger warning* ⚠️ As a boy going up in New Jersey, Clark’s days were filled with fishing and exploring nature with friends. This childhood was taken away by town law enforcement officer and Boy Scout Leader, Dennis Pegg. This trauma eats at Clark for decades until he gets a violent review.
So that synopsis sounds like an amazing thriller novel, right? Unfortunately this is true life and is a memoir; a powerful memoir. I commend the author as I can only imagine the courage it took to put all of this on paper. Fredericks showed how difficult it is for men to admit they were raped or taken advantage of because of the cognitive dissonance with the idea of masculinity. This memoir also really showed how holding in trauma and bottling it up can only result in more trauma. I’m very happy for Clark and glad he is now able to use his past to enable change.
“Maybe this is the best reason why you don’t rape little kids, because some day they can come back as grown men and cut your head off.”
Scarred comes out 7/29.
*Trigger warning* ⚠️ As a boy going up in New Jersey, Clark’s days were filled with fishing and exploring nature with friends. This childhood was taken away by town law enforcement officer and Boy Scout Leader, Dennis Pegg. This trauma eats at Clark for decades until he gets a violent review.
So that synopsis sounds like an amazing thriller novel, right? Unfortunately this is true life and is a memoir; a powerful memoir. I commend the author as I can only imagine the courage it took to put all of this on paper. Fredericks showed how difficult it is for men to admit they were raped or taken advantage of because of the cognitive dissonance with the idea of masculinity. This memoir also really showed how holding in trauma and bottling it up can only result in more trauma. I’m very happy for Clark and glad he is now able to use his past to enable change.
“Maybe this is the best reason why you don’t rape little kids, because some day they can come back as grown men and cut your head off.”
Scarred comes out 7/29.
July 3, 2025
This is the most compelling memoir I’ve ever read.
A story told truthfully from the heart. Clark shares a story about unbelievable betrayal and abuse by a trusted member of his community.
It’s a story that will tug at your heartstrings . It demonstrates that through strong faith and family love there can be healing.
This memoir will bring you to tears many times.
A story told truthfully from the heart. Clark shares a story about unbelievable betrayal and abuse by a trusted member of his community.
It’s a story that will tug at your heartstrings . It demonstrates that through strong faith and family love there can be healing.
This memoir will bring you to tears many times.
July 8, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: July 29, 2025
Trigger warning: Depicts child exploitation and grooming, child sexual abuse, blood and gore, murder and animal abuse.
As a young boy, Clark Fredericks was sexually abused by his Boy Scout leader, a law enforcement officer with the Sheriff’s department. Scared to come forward with his truth, Clark suffered a lifetime of addiction, drugs, alcohol, gambling and sex and was unable to commit to a job or a partner for any length of time. One night, after seeing a famous serial sex offender on the news, something in Clark snapped and he drove to his molester’s house, slitting his throat with a knife that was given to him by his Scout leader. Afterward, Clark was put on trial for murder, resulting in a tumultuous legal battle which had serious implications for the justice system, as well as Clark himself.
“Scarred: A Memoir of a Childhood Stolen and a Life Reclaimed” by Clark Fredericks is in no way an easy read. Haunting, tragic, disturbing yet also heartfelt, Fredericks shares his journey, through the good and the very, very bad, in an honest and powerful way. Regardless of your thoughts and opinions on the actions Clark took, this book will leave a mark on you and there is no more relevant time than now to read a book on the stigmas and secrecy that still exist around sexual assault.
Obviously, what happened to Clark is horrible, but the way he managed to turn his life around and be an advocate for others is nothing less than phenomenal. “Scarred” will inspire anyone, abuse survivors or not, to want to make the necessary changes to be a better person, for others but especially, for themselves.
In a strange kind of way, “Scarred” is a redemption story, a tale of the bad guy getting his comeuppance, which the world needs right now. Although Clark very clearly discourages others from taking the actions he did, I don’t think there is a human being alive who will show any empathy for the murdered pedophile. Clark is the David vs. Goliath, not just his rapist but the system at large, as he takes on the Supreme Court and finally is able to advocate for real, concrete change on a massive scale.
“Scarred” is thought-provoking and dark, but it is a brave memoir worth reading and I praise Fredericks for sharing his story.
Expected publication date: July 29, 2025
Trigger warning: Depicts child exploitation and grooming, child sexual abuse, blood and gore, murder and animal abuse.
As a young boy, Clark Fredericks was sexually abused by his Boy Scout leader, a law enforcement officer with the Sheriff’s department. Scared to come forward with his truth, Clark suffered a lifetime of addiction, drugs, alcohol, gambling and sex and was unable to commit to a job or a partner for any length of time. One night, after seeing a famous serial sex offender on the news, something in Clark snapped and he drove to his molester’s house, slitting his throat with a knife that was given to him by his Scout leader. Afterward, Clark was put on trial for murder, resulting in a tumultuous legal battle which had serious implications for the justice system, as well as Clark himself.
“Scarred: A Memoir of a Childhood Stolen and a Life Reclaimed” by Clark Fredericks is in no way an easy read. Haunting, tragic, disturbing yet also heartfelt, Fredericks shares his journey, through the good and the very, very bad, in an honest and powerful way. Regardless of your thoughts and opinions on the actions Clark took, this book will leave a mark on you and there is no more relevant time than now to read a book on the stigmas and secrecy that still exist around sexual assault.
Obviously, what happened to Clark is horrible, but the way he managed to turn his life around and be an advocate for others is nothing less than phenomenal. “Scarred” will inspire anyone, abuse survivors or not, to want to make the necessary changes to be a better person, for others but especially, for themselves.
In a strange kind of way, “Scarred” is a redemption story, a tale of the bad guy getting his comeuppance, which the world needs right now. Although Clark very clearly discourages others from taking the actions he did, I don’t think there is a human being alive who will show any empathy for the murdered pedophile. Clark is the David vs. Goliath, not just his rapist but the system at large, as he takes on the Supreme Court and finally is able to advocate for real, concrete change on a massive scale.
“Scarred” is thought-provoking and dark, but it is a brave memoir worth reading and I praise Fredericks for sharing his story.
April 20, 2025
This book was so heartbreaking, infuriating and sad but at the same time inspirational. I ma truly glad Clark was able to overcome so many horrific situations in life and now to be able to help others with this testimony.
TW: sexual abuse, children sexual abuse, suicide, alcoholism, drug abuse, prison environment.
TW: sexual abuse, children sexual abuse, suicide, alcoholism, drug abuse, prison environment.
January 1, 2025
Last book of 2024 and it was WORTH IT. I read this in one sitting and felt every emotion possible. Fredricks did a fantastic job at telling his story in a way that was highly engaging.
Thank you to Edelweiss for the opportunity to let me read this ARC!
Thank you to Edelweiss for the opportunity to let me read this ARC!
January 18, 2025
Most importantly, a huge thank you to NetGalley, Clark Fredericks and Atria Books for providing me with a copy of this publication in exchange for an honest review.
"I had just murdered Dennis Pegg, a longtime family friend, my boyhood hero. I killed him without mercy–to face, up close and personal–with my bare hands and a razor-sharp knife, the same knife he taught me how to sharpen when I was just a kid." -Clark Fredericks, 'Scarred: A Memoir of a Childhood Stolen and a Life Reclaimed'
Given the topic, this one was difficult to get through. It also took place in the same area in which I grew up. So this could have very well happened to one of my own brothers or friends. (Thank God it didn't.) That being said, I was eager to learn of Mr. Fredericks' childhood prior to the traumatic event that was the basis of his story.
The author's vulnerability and honesty during the rehashing of his childhood trauma couldn't be more admirable. He does a phenomenal job of explaining where his mind was at during every stage of his life and how it related to what happened to him, how it affected him. For this, I applaud him. However, what bothered me most is his lack of remorse. Don't get me wrong, harming a child in ANY way, ESPECIALLY this way, is deplorable. BEYOND deplorable. Despicable. Disgusting. Revolting. But his writing seemed to have glorified taking the life of someone, made it honorable, and this didn't sit right with me.
All in all, this was a good read. I liked it. I don't know if I'd say I enjoyed it. I admire your courage and resilience, Mr. Fredericks. I wish you healing and happiness in your freedom.
"I had just murdered Dennis Pegg, a longtime family friend, my boyhood hero. I killed him without mercy–to face, up close and personal–with my bare hands and a razor-sharp knife, the same knife he taught me how to sharpen when I was just a kid." -Clark Fredericks, 'Scarred: A Memoir of a Childhood Stolen and a Life Reclaimed'
Given the topic, this one was difficult to get through. It also took place in the same area in which I grew up. So this could have very well happened to one of my own brothers or friends. (Thank God it didn't.) That being said, I was eager to learn of Mr. Fredericks' childhood prior to the traumatic event that was the basis of his story.
The author's vulnerability and honesty during the rehashing of his childhood trauma couldn't be more admirable. He does a phenomenal job of explaining where his mind was at during every stage of his life and how it related to what happened to him, how it affected him. For this, I applaud him. However, what bothered me most is his lack of remorse. Don't get me wrong, harming a child in ANY way, ESPECIALLY this way, is deplorable. BEYOND deplorable. Despicable. Disgusting. Revolting. But his writing seemed to have glorified taking the life of someone, made it honorable, and this didn't sit right with me.
All in all, this was a good read. I liked it. I don't know if I'd say I enjoyed it. I admire your courage and resilience, Mr. Fredericks. I wish you healing and happiness in your freedom.
August 23, 2025
Came here after watching Stephanie Soo’s interview with the author. She mentioned his book and I happened to just be finishing up another so decided to give support. I completed the whole story in one sitting. I could not put it down.
I admire this man for sharing his truths and the reality of how he coped with such a horrific crime committed against him. It was honest and love how it can help bring up a very difficult moral dilemma of can taking someone else’s life in your hands be a bit justified or at least understood at times?
I admire this man for sharing his truths and the reality of how he coped with such a horrific crime committed against him. It was honest and love how it can help bring up a very difficult moral dilemma of can taking someone else’s life in your hands be a bit justified or at least understood at times?
May 22, 2025
Thank you Netgalley, Clark Fredericks & Atria books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
A Powerful, Unflinching Memoir of Survival and Justice
Scarred by Clark Fredericks is one of the most gripping and emotionally raw memoirs I’ve ever read. Fredericks doesn’t just tell his story—he lays bare his soul, taking readers through the harrowing experiences of childhood abuse, the internal battles that followed, and ultimately, his fight for justice and healing. His honesty is searing, his pain palpable, but what stands out most is his resilience.
This book is not just about trauma—it’s about the strength to survive it, speak out, and reclaim your life. Fredericks writes with clarity and purpose, transforming his personal tragedy into a powerful message of empowerment for other survivors. It’s heartbreaking, inspiring, and deeply human. A must-read for anyone who believes in justice, redemption, and the enduring power of truth.
Five stars without hesitation.
A Powerful, Unflinching Memoir of Survival and Justice
Scarred by Clark Fredericks is one of the most gripping and emotionally raw memoirs I’ve ever read. Fredericks doesn’t just tell his story—he lays bare his soul, taking readers through the harrowing experiences of childhood abuse, the internal battles that followed, and ultimately, his fight for justice and healing. His honesty is searing, his pain palpable, but what stands out most is his resilience.
This book is not just about trauma—it’s about the strength to survive it, speak out, and reclaim your life. Fredericks writes with clarity and purpose, transforming his personal tragedy into a powerful message of empowerment for other survivors. It’s heartbreaking, inspiring, and deeply human. A must-read for anyone who believes in justice, redemption, and the enduring power of truth.
Five stars without hesitation.
July 29, 2025
“A memoir of a childhood stolen and a life reclaimed”
What a great way to sum up Scarred by Clark Fredericks.
An emotional and heartbreaking read about a young New Jersey boy who had his childhood snatched from him by a “local hero”. After the abuse, he looked for ways to numb the pain & shame until he violently confronted his abuser.
A story of abuse & violence turned into advocacy and reform. Scarred wrecked me, but I think it’s one that is absolutely worth the read!
Huge thank you to Atria for the gifted ARC of Scarred by Clark Fredericks.
What a great way to sum up Scarred by Clark Fredericks.
An emotional and heartbreaking read about a young New Jersey boy who had his childhood snatched from him by a “local hero”. After the abuse, he looked for ways to numb the pain & shame until he violently confronted his abuser.
A story of abuse & violence turned into advocacy and reform. Scarred wrecked me, but I think it’s one that is absolutely worth the read!
Huge thank you to Atria for the gifted ARC of Scarred by Clark Fredericks.
November 10, 2025
where do i even begin? this was such a powerful story about trauma, dealing with trauma, and rising from that trauma. i have so much respect for clark who’s ptsd and trauma drove him to commit a horrific crime and instead of falling further down that hole, he crawled out, changed his life, and is now changing other people’s lives (AND he got the girl 30 years later!! i could cry). i wish him and lisa the very very best
March 7, 2025
I love redemption memoirs and this one delivers! At age 12, Clark Fredericks was molested and raped by his boy scout leader, sending him down a path of drug use, alcoholism and instability. He kept his secret for 30 years. When he finally finds the courage to speak out and confront his abuser, his life again takes a negative turn. However, through therapy and rehabilitation, Clark is able to take the worst moments in his life and turn them into inspiration for others. This book was challenging, due both to the subject matter and the ways that Clark chose to handle his problems. I had empathy for him, but he definitely doesn't portray himself as a "good guy" until the end, when things become almost sacchrine. I commend the author for opening up about his story, lobbying for the rights of victims of sexual abuse, and helping others in the same situation. I just didn't love his delivery.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
January 9, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
Clark tells his story of child sex abuse, to murdering his predator, to prison, and finally to healing and transformation. Very well written and engaging. His continuing advocacy and speaking events are truly life-changing for so many people.
Clark tells his story of child sex abuse, to murdering his predator, to prison, and finally to healing and transformation. Very well written and engaging. His continuing advocacy and speaking events are truly life-changing for so many people.
March 20, 2025
Although I enjoyed this book, it was definitely a tough one to read. I enjoyed the rawness of Clark's writing. He laid it all out, every trial and tribulation he endured, and showed that we are in charge of our own fate.
October 12, 2025
Scarred - review is all over the place sorry 🫣
Another nonfiction book that destroyed me. Twice in 3 days - I’m running back to my fiction. But this is why I love reading nonfiction.
“It is still a tale of horror about a kid terrorized by a trusted friend and abuser. But time has also made it a tale of redemption and recovery-and a true love story about friends and family and second chances,” (p. 3).
“Then he introduced his lesson for the evening, the notion that God created man with free will. Man chooses to do good or evil. God is not a puppet master who makes anyone do or not do what's right or good or moral. Good things and bad things happen to everyone. We are judged by how we deal with the good and the bad. People use their free will to make their own choices; God doesn't do it for us, or to us,” (p. 153).
^ Goosebumps … I’m so happy the devil didn’t win.
A cautionary tale, an import read - in so many ways. It’s frustrating, this monster slipped through everyone’s hands. It takes great courage to write this book.
What a life! Love your mother! The FBI, the Mob, gambling, drugs, sex, alcohol - this real life story is insane.
It’s funny (not funny but for lack of a better word) that Denny taught Clark, at the age of eight, what you do to useless things. Provided him with the knife. It was the perfect mix for what happened that night. I understand it.
Sorry, but some monsters deserve to die. (🤣 wrote this before I read what Dan said about women and men looking at this case differently). He’s wrong. I would have let him walk. He’s been tortured enough - now is his time to live his real life, without the possibility of ever having to see that monster again. Without having to think about the boys who would no doubt be going through what he did.
Secrets only hurt the holders. To all the boys who didn’t survive it, you are not forgotten.
Those who covered up, looked the other way, ignored all the warnings - in so many other cases exactly like this one: YOU ARE COMPLICIT. I hope Clark has a beautiful life now. He’s overcome so much, experienced it almost all, now is his time.
I’m happy that this court case turned out okay in the end. Because so many don’t. People understood. Stories like this are hard to read, but important to learn from. I hope it saves some other little boy, who is now a man, but still trapped in his torment. I hope it helps some other little boy who finds this book and sees that secrets never help.
All the shame belongs to the child predators - but this is also a warning that we need more awareness, how to look for the signs, and to stop this cycle from playing out in so many other’s lives.
But this also - a tiny bit - shows what is so wrong with our justice system and prisons/jails. Like he said, you survive here. That’s it. They don’t help anyone. We need reform. If you’re lucky you find a prison that has good programs and some help but nothing like it should be.
I love Lisa & Clark - what a love story!
Another nonfiction book that destroyed me. Twice in 3 days - I’m running back to my fiction. But this is why I love reading nonfiction.
“It is still a tale of horror about a kid terrorized by a trusted friend and abuser. But time has also made it a tale of redemption and recovery-and a true love story about friends and family and second chances,” (p. 3).
“Then he introduced his lesson for the evening, the notion that God created man with free will. Man chooses to do good or evil. God is not a puppet master who makes anyone do or not do what's right or good or moral. Good things and bad things happen to everyone. We are judged by how we deal with the good and the bad. People use their free will to make their own choices; God doesn't do it for us, or to us,” (p. 153).
^ Goosebumps … I’m so happy the devil didn’t win.
A cautionary tale, an import read - in so many ways. It’s frustrating, this monster slipped through everyone’s hands. It takes great courage to write this book.
What a life! Love your mother! The FBI, the Mob, gambling, drugs, sex, alcohol - this real life story is insane.
It’s funny (not funny but for lack of a better word) that Denny taught Clark, at the age of eight, what you do to useless things. Provided him with the knife. It was the perfect mix for what happened that night. I understand it.
Sorry, but some monsters deserve to die. (🤣 wrote this before I read what Dan said about women and men looking at this case differently). He’s wrong. I would have let him walk. He’s been tortured enough - now is his time to live his real life, without the possibility of ever having to see that monster again. Without having to think about the boys who would no doubt be going through what he did.
Secrets only hurt the holders. To all the boys who didn’t survive it, you are not forgotten.
Those who covered up, looked the other way, ignored all the warnings - in so many other cases exactly like this one: YOU ARE COMPLICIT. I hope Clark has a beautiful life now. He’s overcome so much, experienced it almost all, now is his time.
I’m happy that this court case turned out okay in the end. Because so many don’t. People understood. Stories like this are hard to read, but important to learn from. I hope it saves some other little boy, who is now a man, but still trapped in his torment. I hope it helps some other little boy who finds this book and sees that secrets never help.
All the shame belongs to the child predators - but this is also a warning that we need more awareness, how to look for the signs, and to stop this cycle from playing out in so many other’s lives.
But this also - a tiny bit - shows what is so wrong with our justice system and prisons/jails. Like he said, you survive here. That’s it. They don’t help anyone. We need reform. If you’re lucky you find a prison that has good programs and some help but nothing like it should be.
I love Lisa & Clark - what a love story!
November 10, 2025
While visiting a local bookstore (Black Dog Books), they had a whole section dedicated to supporting local authors. I was immediately intrigued when I found this memoir on display, honored to support a neighboring writer who was brave enough to share their story about sexual abuse and the trauma that ultimately follows.
This was definitely an emotional and hard read, especially with it happening so close to home. With that said, Clark's memoir kept me in shock and awe with how God has truly blessed him on his road to healing and recovery. This is a wonderfully written testimony.
I do wish that more discussion and research was provided in addressing the two sentence mentioning of racism within our system - especially considering his black jail mate was sentenced to 14 years in prison for an act of violence, while he served 5 years for murder. This is a topic that shouldn't have been merely thrown in there as a few set of words, but rather discussed and expanded upon.
Additionally, the mentioning of New Jersey was A LOT. BUT it also helped bring the impact closer to home each time so I do appreciate that.
Overall, this was an impactful read that I recommend to all. Thank you Clark for sharing your story for others to learn, as well as your advocacy for other abuse victims.
This was definitely an emotional and hard read, especially with it happening so close to home. With that said, Clark's memoir kept me in shock and awe with how God has truly blessed him on his road to healing and recovery. This is a wonderfully written testimony.
I do wish that more discussion and research was provided in addressing the two sentence mentioning of racism within our system - especially considering his black jail mate was sentenced to 14 years in prison for an act of violence, while he served 5 years for murder. This is a topic that shouldn't have been merely thrown in there as a few set of words, but rather discussed and expanded upon.
Additionally, the mentioning of New Jersey was A LOT. BUT it also helped bring the impact closer to home each time so I do appreciate that.
Overall, this was an impactful read that I recommend to all. Thank you Clark for sharing your story for others to learn, as well as your advocacy for other abuse victims.
December 23, 2025
A very difficult read at times due to the tough subject matter. I expected this story to be interesting in the same way that true crime is interesting, but the truly amazing parts of this story were the author's recovery and how many people he was able to help. I'm not religious myself, but I'm glad he was able to repair his relationships with his friends, family, past love, and even God.
December 26, 2025
I found about this book through a podcast at first, and I am so glad to have found it. The author’s words made me feel understood in a way I did not think I would ever be able to.
December 27, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Wow, this was one of the most compelling memoirs I’ve ever read. This was extremely heavy and hard to read many times, but also inspiring and heartwarming. I am so glad Clark was able to overcome so many horrific situations in life and turn his situation into something that will help so many others.
Wow, this was one of the most compelling memoirs I’ve ever read. This was extremely heavy and hard to read many times, but also inspiring and heartwarming. I am so glad Clark was able to overcome so many horrific situations in life and turn his situation into something that will help so many others.
November 7, 2025
A raw and heavy account that’s also full of hope and self reinvention. I also recommend watching Clark’s interview with Stephanie Soo
October 14, 2025
I am sobbing.
I saw Clark’s podcast interview on Rotten Mango and instantly added this to my tbr. So glad I finally made time to read it but man. It really does pull at your heart strings. Definitely a must read but please read the trigger warnings beforehand
I saw Clark’s podcast interview on Rotten Mango and instantly added this to my tbr. So glad I finally made time to read it but man. It really does pull at your heart strings. Definitely a must read but please read the trigger warnings beforehand
August 28, 2025
Thank you @Atriabooks #AtriaPartner for the free copy 💖.
✨What it is about:
This is the true story of Clark Fredericks, who survived childhood abuse, struggled for years, and eventually found healing after confronting his abuser. Now he speaks out to help others and push for change.✨
💭My thoughts:
A little tough to read through emotionally, this was such a powerful true story about surviving childhood abuse and finding a way to heal. Very well written, it follows Clark as he recounts his experience. As a kid growing up in 1970s rural New Jersey, he was abused by someone everyone trusted: a local cop and Boy Scout leader. For years, Clark kept it all inside, haunted by the trauma, and turned to addiction and destructive behaviors to cope. The shame was overwhelming. After years of silence and inner torment, he finally confronted his abuser in a violent act that led to prison. But that moment also marked the beginning of his healing journey. Now, he uses his voice to help other survivors and advocate for change. This memoir explores his path through pain, justice, and ultimately, personal transformation. It was truly eye-opening and very compelling.
Writing this was such a brave move by Clark, and incredibly inspiring. Though what happened to him was truly horrific, the way he turned it all around and now uses his story to help others is deeply admirable.
Read if you like:
📝Memoirs
📝Stories of redemption
📝Compelling & thought provoking reads
📝Second chances
📝Criminal justice
⚠️CW: Child exploitation and grooming, child sexual abuse, animal abuse, suicide, drug and alcohol abuse, murder, blood and gore, imprisonment.
✨What it is about:
This is the true story of Clark Fredericks, who survived childhood abuse, struggled for years, and eventually found healing after confronting his abuser. Now he speaks out to help others and push for change.✨
💭My thoughts:
A little tough to read through emotionally, this was such a powerful true story about surviving childhood abuse and finding a way to heal. Very well written, it follows Clark as he recounts his experience. As a kid growing up in 1970s rural New Jersey, he was abused by someone everyone trusted: a local cop and Boy Scout leader. For years, Clark kept it all inside, haunted by the trauma, and turned to addiction and destructive behaviors to cope. The shame was overwhelming. After years of silence and inner torment, he finally confronted his abuser in a violent act that led to prison. But that moment also marked the beginning of his healing journey. Now, he uses his voice to help other survivors and advocate for change. This memoir explores his path through pain, justice, and ultimately, personal transformation. It was truly eye-opening and very compelling.
Writing this was such a brave move by Clark, and incredibly inspiring. Though what happened to him was truly horrific, the way he turned it all around and now uses his story to help others is deeply admirable.
Read if you like:
📝Memoirs
📝Stories of redemption
📝Compelling & thought provoking reads
📝Second chances
📝Criminal justice
⚠️CW: Child exploitation and grooming, child sexual abuse, animal abuse, suicide, drug and alcohol abuse, murder, blood and gore, imprisonment.
October 9, 2025
“No booming voice from heaven offered me immediate advice, but as I surveyed my cell stacked with books from friends and strangers, I knew there had to be a lot of wisdom waiting in those pages.
Maybe God wants me to read.”
I was scrolling ARCs looking for a book to request and this caught my eye because it was my favorite genre, memoirs. I requested and the Lord said you ask & shall receive so I read the book. I took me 26 hours only because I had to unfortunately sleep and go to work. This book is why I read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Book Review: Sacred by Clark Fredericks
This book takes you through the life of Clark Fredericks beginning when he was about six years old in rural Northern New Jersey. This is the small town where he would be groomed and molested by a Boy Scout leader, police Lieutenant , family friend and community leader. We hear about his life through early adulthood and his struggle with literally every addiction we know of .. in short , 30 something odd years later he murdered that man in cold blood with no remorse and he takes us through that too. The end is a fairytale, who would have thought 🧑🏽🍳 One of the best memoirs I have ever read , truly a gift thank you.
6 stars, well done, HIGHLY recommend
- rather just read
Maybe God wants me to read.”
I was scrolling ARCs looking for a book to request and this caught my eye because it was my favorite genre, memoirs. I requested and the Lord said you ask & shall receive so I read the book. I took me 26 hours only because I had to unfortunately sleep and go to work. This book is why I read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Book Review: Sacred by Clark Fredericks
This book takes you through the life of Clark Fredericks beginning when he was about six years old in rural Northern New Jersey. This is the small town where he would be groomed and molested by a Boy Scout leader, police Lieutenant , family friend and community leader. We hear about his life through early adulthood and his struggle with literally every addiction we know of .. in short , 30 something odd years later he murdered that man in cold blood with no remorse and he takes us through that too. The end is a fairytale, who would have thought 🧑🏽🍳 One of the best memoirs I have ever read , truly a gift thank you.
6 stars, well done, HIGHLY recommend
- rather just read
November 15, 2025
For a boy growing up in the 1970s, rural northern New Jersey was a year-round playground. But this childhood idyll was snatched from Clark Fredericks by a man he regarded as a local hero: Dennis Pegg, the town’s Boy Scout leader, a law enforcement officer with the Sussex County Sheriff’s Department, and, as Fredericks would discover, a serial predator. Through his teenage years and young adulthood, Fredericks kept silent about the horrific abuse he experienced. For decades, he remained tormented by shame, unable to share the secrets that were eating away at his psyche—until he violently confronted his abuser.
"Scarred" is a profoundly moving memoir written by Clark Fredericks, which chronicles the abuse he endured from a well-known individual in their community, who secretly engaged in predatory behavior. I first became acquainted with Clark through my favorite podcast "Rotten Mango," where he recounted aspects of his childhood and the distressing encounter that surfaced as an adult. I was deeply honored when Clark contacted me, and I mentally prepared myself to navigate his painful journey, knowing it would be difficult to read.
I commend Clark for his courage in sharing his truth and for reclaiming his position as an advocate and voice for those who have dealt with sexual abuse. No child should ever endure what Clark has been through! It is truly inspiring to witness Clark's openness and willingness to share his traumatic experiences with the world.
While not usually my preferred genre, I found this memoir to be exceptionally well-written. I felt a range of emotions, from tears and anger to joy, as I witnessed the empowering journey of Mr. Fredericks, which continues to encourage many every day!
"Scarred" is a profoundly moving memoir written by Clark Fredericks, which chronicles the abuse he endured from a well-known individual in their community, who secretly engaged in predatory behavior. I first became acquainted with Clark through my favorite podcast "Rotten Mango," where he recounted aspects of his childhood and the distressing encounter that surfaced as an adult. I was deeply honored when Clark contacted me, and I mentally prepared myself to navigate his painful journey, knowing it would be difficult to read.
I commend Clark for his courage in sharing his truth and for reclaiming his position as an advocate and voice for those who have dealt with sexual abuse. No child should ever endure what Clark has been through! It is truly inspiring to witness Clark's openness and willingness to share his traumatic experiences with the world.
While not usually my preferred genre, I found this memoir to be exceptionally well-written. I felt a range of emotions, from tears and anger to joy, as I witnessed the empowering journey of Mr. Fredericks, which continues to encourage many every day!
July 11, 2025
i was privileged to read the book prior to official release. Those (too)many of us, survivors of child abuse, will find this telling all too familiar. The author candidly tells his story. Children are vulnerable to those they admire. Adults prey on them with great skill. The physical acts become soul and mind damning betrayal. This book details a journey of a child to man experience that leads from despair, addiction, murder & incarceration, to hope, faith and regeneration. A rebirth. now reaching out with love by sharing his story & encouraging others to know there can be redemption & freedom from demons. There is hope. Great read that I will share.
July 29, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Atria, and Clark Fredericks for giving me access to this eARC!
Clark exemplifies the utmost bravery in writing this memoir detailing his experiences with childhood assault, substance abuse, and the penal system. My heart continuously broke for both him and his family and friends. Clark's traumatic experiences took place in the 80s but the silencing of assault victims is still so prevalent in today's society. I believe this book would be a helpful resource to other victims as it exemplifies what can. happen when we don't get the help we need. Even though the beginning of the book foreshadowed the most shocking event in Clark's life story, I still found myself gripping my Kindle and gasping.
While Clark did mention his privilege a few times in the book, I do feel that more could have been done to discuss his fellow inmates and why their experience varied so drastically from his. I have had this issue with books written by white authors in the penal system before and I think there is still a lot of work to be done in that area.
Overall, I really do recommend this read if you want heartbreak, strength, and hope in your next memoir.
Clark exemplifies the utmost bravery in writing this memoir detailing his experiences with childhood assault, substance abuse, and the penal system. My heart continuously broke for both him and his family and friends. Clark's traumatic experiences took place in the 80s but the silencing of assault victims is still so prevalent in today's society. I believe this book would be a helpful resource to other victims as it exemplifies what can. happen when we don't get the help we need. Even though the beginning of the book foreshadowed the most shocking event in Clark's life story, I still found myself gripping my Kindle and gasping.
While Clark did mention his privilege a few times in the book, I do feel that more could have been done to discuss his fellow inmates and why their experience varied so drastically from his. I have had this issue with books written by white authors in the penal system before and I think there is still a lot of work to be done in that area.
Overall, I really do recommend this read if you want heartbreak, strength, and hope in your next memoir.
September 8, 2025
Incredibly powerful. This book is equally terrifying and empowering. Clark is an amazing man who has used his trauma and story to help advocate for so many victims. I can’t recommend this enough. You will need tissues and may benefit from popping a few Tylenol before starting. Thank you, Clark.
November 28, 2025
A very worthwhile read
As someone who has childhood trauma and followed many of the same paths as Clark while trying to drown out the pain, I found this book cathartic. It’s well written. It’s honest. It’s uplifting, which is almost hard to believe considering the subject matter. Human resilience is amazing. I can’t fathom going through what Clark went through. I’m thrilled for him that he came out on the other side.
As someone who has childhood trauma and followed many of the same paths as Clark while trying to drown out the pain, I found this book cathartic. It’s well written. It’s honest. It’s uplifting, which is almost hard to believe considering the subject matter. Human resilience is amazing. I can’t fathom going through what Clark went through. I’m thrilled for him that he came out on the other side.
December 1, 2025
Clark Fredericks handles the sensitive and often complex subject of abuse with raw honesty. His narrative doesn't shy away from showing the emotional and psychological toll taken on Clark. I think it a book that everyone should read.
October 1, 2025
one of the saddest, yet most inspiring and satisfying redemption stories i have ever read.
November 7, 2025
I cried so much. I feel like this really changed my outlook on life, and makes me want to live with purpose
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