From Prison to Paradise: A Story of Radical Trust in God's Divine Mercy

by Kitty Cleveland

Deacon Carl Cleveland was a loving, successful, faithful man when his world came crashing down. Sentenced unjustly to prison, he endured the loss of all he his reputation, home, career, and family. From Prison to Paradise is the moving and inspirational account of Carl and his family discovery of God's mercy and peace in the midst of their ordeal. Kitty Cleveland, an acclaimed singer and retreat leader, shares her own journey of surrender and trust, along with her father's captivating and often humorous stories from "the inside."

Immaculee Ilibagiza, survivor of the Rwandan genocide and bestselling author, writes, "If you have ever struggled to make sense of suffering, forgive, or renew your faith, this book has something for you."

192 pages, Paperback

Published February 13, 2025

Reviews

[Kathleen Eveleigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kitty tells a beautiful story through her father’s letters from prison! This book has had me in tears and praying from my heart more than once. I read it in 3 days. Thank Kitty for opening your family and your heart to us all.

[Lisa Scherer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an inspiring story of faith and perseverance in the midst of injustice and adversity. I highly recommend it!

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! The way her father accepted his situation and became a better man in the process. So inspiring!

[Pasquale · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this inspirational, life-changing book. Deacon Carl Cleveland, a highly-respected, successful attorney and family man, was unjustly prosecuted and convicted of a crime he did not commit. Through letters he wrote to loved ones while incarcerated, we slowly observe a transformation of his heart and soul as he surrenders his circumstances and suffering to God. He learns to live each day in prison with humility, patience and joy. He develops new skills, helps other inmates, and learns to live with gratitude and joy. By the time Deacon Cleveland is unexpectedly released early from prison, he has been purified and made new. There is much to be learned from his remarkable spiritual journey.
Reviewed by Dr. Janet Roscigno.

[Nedra Hains · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this inspirational book in one sitting. It prompted me to reach out to my struggling college age son who recently went out on his own. I snapped a picture of page 180 and just sent to him. Total abandonment to God is such a hard concept until you have suffered. My son confided back that he has started to pray again. I pray he comes back to the Catholic Church. I am sending him Kitty’s book. As Kitty urges through her Dad’s story of unjust struggles, “Jesus, I trust in you!” (Take care of everything). Her book is a MUST READ. 🕊️❤️

[Anna Mills · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best spiritual books I've read in a long time.. you walk this journey with Deacon as his letters take you through his very low points but what God reveals to him... But also to me as I read these letters.. his highs .. you cry .. you laugh... You think you are reading Deacon Cleveland life but then you see how you also travel this spiritual journey with him.. this book is do well written.. you are zapted to that jail and that walk with Deacon.. amazing book!!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book showed me the value to being stripped of everything and of suffering so that surrender and trust in God alone can bring joy, peace and sometimes miracles. In this true story, told through the eyes and heart of a loving daughter and through Deacon Carl Cleveland’s own words through his letters, you will be moved by how this remarkable man, thrust into darkness through no fault of his own, found Light and Joy through God’s love and mercy. This is a must read for everyone.

[Laura L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an inspiring story. It makes one appreciate all they have and realize God will get you through any trial you endure. The Cleveland family showed spiritual strength. I was deeply moved by all Carl Cleveland went through & how he made the best of his time while in prison. Despite what he went through it was transparent his courage came from his devotion and true love for God. Wonderful book, highly recommend others to read it.

[Joanne Henning · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in 3 days as I had a hard time putting it down! Loved it! Beautiful story of surrender and trust. There will be tears!

[Robin Berner · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic read! Made me cry, made me laugh and challenges one to surrender all to our living Lord and fully trust in His Devine Mercy. I will never forget this amazing story!