Shackled: One Woman’s Dramatic Triumph Over Persecution, Gender Abuse, and a Death Sentence

by Mariam Ibraheem, Eugene Bach

Sentenced to Death for Her Beliefs

Mariam Ibraheem was born in a refugee camp in Sudan. Her Muslim father died when she was six, and her mother raised her in the Christian faith. After a traumatic childhood, Mariam became a successful businessperson, married the man she loved, and had a beautiful baby boy.
 
But one day in 2013, her world was shattered when Sudan authorities insisted she was Muslim because of her father’s background. She had broken the law by marrying a Christian man, and she must abandon both her marriage and her son and adopt Islam. Under intense pressure, Mariam repeatedly refused. Ultimately, a Sharia court sentenced her to 100 lashes—and death by hanging.
 
Shackled is the stunning true story of a courageous young mother who was willing to face death rather than deny her faith. Mariam Ibraheem took a stand on behalf of all women who are maltreated because of their gender and all people who suffer from religious persecution.
 
Follow Mariam’s story from life under Islamic law, through imprisonment and childbirth while shackled, to her remarkable escape from death following an international outcry and advocacy that included diplomats, journalists, activists, and even Pope Francis.
 

Genres: Memoir, Nonfiction, Christian, Biography, Africa, History, Audiobook

288 pages, Paperback

Published March 8, 2022

Reviews

[Emma Filbrun · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing story. It was challenging to read, because of the physical and mental/emotional abuse that was described. I never enjoy reading about people being hurt by other people. However, it was also very inspiring to me. I was especially impressed by the way Mariam felt love from the Christians she encountered in her life, in contrast to the so-called “religion of mercy” that Islam says it is. All her life, she felt hatred from the Muslims and love from the Christians. This gave her strength to withstand intense persecution and horrible abuse.  I was also very touched by the way Jesus ministered to her while she was in prison. Do not read this book if you don’t want to be challenged about what Islam really is. Miriam lived with the contrast between Christianity and Islam, and she has an amazing story to tell.
I received a review copy of this book from CelebrateLit, and these are my honest thoughts about it.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a powerful story of what Mariam Ibraheem's life was like in a refugee camp and in a world dominated by Muslim men. I didn't realize how little I knew about the refugee camp in Sudan, since I didn't realize that generations grew up in the refugee camp. The fact that Mariam and I are close in age was mind blowing, since I couldn't help but compare our formative years.
This is a wonderful book to pick up and learn more about the Muslim culture from the outside. I cheered for Mariam as she was able to do things that most women over there don't, like earning a medical degree. Her story about her difficult journey is one you won't want to miss!
I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review.

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the horrendous, true story of the author's persecution for being a Christian in Sudan. She was born to a Muslim father and a Christian mother. Her mother raised her to be a Christian even though it was illegal to do so. Mariam married a Christian man but since her father was Muslim her marriage was considered illegal. She was thrown into prison for "adultery" but in reality it was because she refused to recant her faith. She tortured and even had to give birth in horrible circumstances. This book is not forget the faint of heart. I was awestruck by the peace and calmness that she had while being tormented. Her faith in Jesus is what held her through all her troubles.

[Ashley Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a tough one to read. Very inspiring, but tough. I can't even imagine going through what all Mariam went through. I didn't realize how little I knew about this entire area and society.

I liked learning, but my heart ached for her throughout. She was so strong and determined and I was so very impressed. She showed so much faith in God and I'm honestly not sure that I could stand that strong. I would want to hope I could, but being actually faced with the choice I would hope I could be like her.

4/5

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ibraheem's memoir is an incredible one. She showed great faith in the face of severe danger, including threats of death. Her refusal to deny her faith in Jesus is an encouragement to all Christians facing persecution. The book is also very informative, revealing the dangers of being a Christian in an Islamic culture adhering to Sharia law. She writes about Islamic customs, such as female circumcision and honor killing. She gives very clear descriptions of the differences between the two faiths.

This is an excellent memoir for those desiring to know what it is like for a committed Christian to live in a culture opposed to Christian faith. It is well written and engaging even if some of her horrible experiences were hard to read.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hair raising.

Absolutely terrifying and inspirational. This woman took on mountains and barely wavered.
Psalm 46

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t know very much about Islamic religion but this book opened my eyes to some of their customs and beliefs. Mariam’s story is not fun to read but is informative and dares to challenge us. Would we deny Christ in order to save ourselves? It is easy to say we would, but in that moment of terror would we have the courage to say “I am a Christian and I believe in God?

Mariam’s childhood was not easy at all. Being a little child and having to get water from a well and carry it back to her tent was tiring and emotionally draining. Her father was so volatile and a danger to his entire family. I understand that Mariam’s mother wanted to submit to her husband but at some point she needed to take a stand before someone was killed. I couldn’t read some of the torture that Mariam’s mother endured because it sickened me. How could a person not be punished for his abuse of his wife? I will never understand this religion and it is hard to read how the people are treated at times who do not obey.

Mariam details the many challenges she faced as she proclaimed she was a Christian. It was sad to read about people she loved who had died. At some point she felt alone except she knew that God was there with her. The story is graphic in places but does help readers understand what Mariam and others like her go through when they proclaim to be Christians. Being in prison, beaten and starved she never gave up because she trusted God to rescue her.The sentence delivered to her in court was beyond anything I could believe. Mariam in all that was going on around her still stood firm that she was a Christian.

This is one story that I think everyone should read. It exposes the danger that people face in other countries as well as the threat in our own country. Satan is out there waiting to devour us, but God is there to overcome the world. It is also a story of faith, strength and a woman who declared that “Jesus is Lord” in front of those who wanted to harm her.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Becca Hope · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am absolutely awe-struck at this amazing true story of Mariam Ibraheem. From the very beginning, with a Muslim father and a Christian mother, living under the Sharia law, she lived a life of hardship and had to fight for what she believed in. And throughout especially the hardest times, her faith never wavered. Not when her mother and sister died, not when she was arrested, not even when she was put on death row. Her faith and trust in God just kept getting stronger. And she refused to deny her faith or reject Jesus.

This book opened my eyes to the persecution that Christians face in Sudan even today. As someone who is blessed to live in a country that has freedom of religion, these types of dangers never existed. But Mariam's story made me realize how many Christians around the world are in need of our prayers.

I would highly recommend this book. It does deal with hard things, and many times, Ibraheem does not sugar coat the hardships she saw and experienced. It is very raw and very emotional. But I would still encourage one to read it as it reveals not only the faith and trust of a Christian woman, but it also reveals God's goodness and love.

I had received a copy of this book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.

[Cal Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow this story is amazing. I couldn’t put it down. Miriam came to our church on Sunday to share a bit of her story and what a story is! I mean she took care of her baby in prison and gave birth to another baby while in shackles. She was given the death sentence in Sudan for having a Muslim father and converting to Christianity. All would have been forgiven if she would have said the Shahada and denied Jesus. But she stood strong in Christ no matter how much they beat or imprisoned her or held the death penalty over her head. It is on par with “The Hiding Place” by Corrie Ten boom. Adding to my favorites

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mariam Ibraheem chronicles her journey from living in a refugee camp to becoming and marrying a Christian man all in the presence of Muslim beliefs. This powerful novel illustrates the dangers that come when you live in a culture vehemently opposed to Christianity.

Mariam Ibraheem demonstrates incredible faith in Jesus Christ and stands true to those beliefs. While I knew of the dangers Christians faced in Muslim countries, this book puts a personal face on those dangers,

So if you want to read a moving and inspiring journey of a Christian woman who refuses to deny God, check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Cum aș putea fi supărată pe o națiune care nu mă iubește, când ei nu știu ce este dragostea sau Cine este dragostea? Ei mă persecută pentru că ‘nu știu ce fac’. “

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shackled was quite the read. I love learning about history through true stories but this one was difficult to read. My heart went out to Mariam Ibraheem from the beginning, yet, one thing she said has stayed with me. No matter how deplorable the conditions were that she lived in, she never once considered herself a victim. What an amazing mother to raise her children with that belief system, and what a wonderful woman to choose to focus on her blessings. I loved when she talked about how Jesus appeared to her in jail. I loved the part where she understood that when the country couldn’t rule her by fear, she was to be disposed of so her beliefs didn’t rub off on others, and … I could go on and on about how wonderful this book was. It really grew my faith and was very relevant to today. While I didn’t enjoy reading about how horrible her life was, I did love reading about how God showed up always. This is a book I have already been telling people about and encouraging them to read. It might help grow their faith, too. I keep thinking about how once she came to the United States she said she has to stay alert not to grow apathetic in her faith or allow her children to also. That really struck me and I have been thinking about that because I do not want to be an apathetic believer.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was under no obligation to review it. All opinions are mine.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shackled: One Woman’s Dramatic Triumph Over Persecution, Gender Abuse, and a Death Sentence
by Mariam Ibraheem is inspiring book to read. I admire Mariam’s courage and bravery to denounce her faith. She lived in a world where it was a crime to be a Christian. She never wavers in her faith. The book is quite heartbreaking all the way to see what she went through. I had to have my tissues handy while I read on. She is such an inspiration for all of us around the world, especially in those countries where Christianity is persecuted. I could not put the book down until I read to the end to find out how it all would end for her.

Shackled: One Woman’s Dramatic Triumph Over Persecution, Gender Abuse, and a Death Sentence is getting a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who like to read books about those who fight for their faith. I will be looking out for information about Mariam Ibraheem’s story.

I received a paperback copy of Shackled: One Woman’s Dramatic Triumph Over Persecution, Gender Abuse, and a Death Sentence from the publisher, but was not required a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really insightful on what it’s like for women living under the Sharia law in Sudan. Especially for Christian women who deny the Islamic religion and get terribly persecuted for it. This book is a true account written by Miriam, who herself was persecuted for her Christian faith under the Sharia law. A heartbreaking story about her time in prison with her young son, but also a truely inspirational story. Her story is just one of millions of other individuals that do not have freedom of choice and are ridiculed for their beliefs in these persecuted countries like Sudan, North Korea, China just to name a few. However, in the last few years Sudan no longer gives individuals the death penalty for denying Islam, but imprisonment still continues.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this book, the author tells her story about living as a Christian in Sudan.

Sudan is a nation hostile to Christianity. It is governed by strict Sharia law. Although Mariam's mother was a Christian, displaced from her home in Ethiopia and living as a refugee in Sudan, her dad was a Muslim. Because of that, she was automatically considered to be a Muslim even though she was raised as a Christian by her mother since her father died when Mariam was six years old.

Mariam spent her days in school and helping her mother who worked hard to put food on the table for Mariam, her brother Hassan and her baby sister Bahia. She wasn't really fond of school; she'd much rather be learning from her mother how to run a business and cook in the kitchen.

Mariam grew and went to college. While there, she met her best friend's brother while the two talked online. Mariam felt an instant attraction to Daniel. He was also interested in her. He travelled to meet. Daniel was from South Sudan and was also a Christian. There wasn't as much persecution in the southern region of the country. The two married and Mariam became Daniel's caretaker and wife (Daniel was wheelchair bound).

One day in 2013, Mariam was arrested and charged with marrying a Christian man, something forbidden because she was considered Muslim. She would be freed if she renounced Jesus and accepted Islam. Mariam refused. She was sent to prison, along with the couple's first child Martin, and sentenced to death for apostasy.

The rest of the book details her treatment in prison. She described persecution to which we in the West cannot relate. Through it all, Mariam refused to renounce her faith.

The book is raw. There is a warning in the beginning of the book about two chapters that describe gruesome treatment. It will, though, help you see what our Christian brothers and sisters have to live with in persecuted countries.

[Renee Knoblauch · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful story not for the faint of heart. The true story of Mariam Ibraheem is an eye-opener as Believers. We have it so easy to follow Jesus in America. I notice that our faith in Jesus waivers at the smallest things. We just don’t know what it means to lay it all down to follow Jesus. We take our religious freedom for granted.

Mariam’s father was a Muslim and her mother a Christian living under Sharia law in Sudan. Her faith was strong and kept getting stronger during persecution. She refused to reject Jesus under the harsh persecution.

This is a hard read but, at the same time very enlightening. There is a lot of physical and emotional abuse as Miriam shares her life. She ends up in a refugee camp and marries a Christian man despite the dangers of Sharia law. She loses everything she loves but her faith is strong. She shares the love she had from the Believers she meets and the hatred from others as a Christian.

Her story is an amazing story that takes courage to share as she deals with the Islamic customs, female circumcision, and honor killing. She lays out the contrast between Christianity and Islam.

I highly recommend this book. It can be difficult as it is very raw. I wouldn’t recommend this story to someone sensitive.

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through Celebrate Lit Bloggers in exchange for my honest thoughts.

[Challice]

Miriam Ibraheem became the voice for numerous women who have suffered unimaginable horror and persecution because of their faith, or the faith that they are shackled too.

This book was heart-wrenching. I knew some of the Islamic practices and know of others, but to really understand how many live in day to day life was beyond my comprehension as I sit here typing this out to you in my comfy clothes and comfy atmosphere.

We are taken back to Ibraheem’s mother’s story and thereby understanding all the dominoes that were set in place. Ibraheem did a marvelous job of writing in a way and I did not want to put the book down once I had begun reading. Some memoirs and biographies are a bit dry and filled with a lot of detail, but what I saw in this book is that the author kept you in the loop without going on and on. She would bring things up again and maybe give more details but it never took a different direction from the story and then you got thrown back into the middle of wherever you were before you got derailed. I really appreciate that.

This is worth your time to read. It is always good for us to see what true persecution for our faith is like. Recommend.

[Cheryl Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shackled is a powerful true story of a young mother who was willing to face death rather than deny her faith. Mariam Ibraheem took a stand on behalf of all people who suffer from religious persecution and treated poorly because they are women.

Mariam’s story is a true testament to those who want to know more about what it is like to live a life with Christ in a culture who is opposed to the faith. Would we deny Christ in order to save ourselves? What would we do in a moment of terror? I would have the courage to say that I am a Christian and that I believe in God, what about you? Shackled will open the eyes of the reader to the persecution that Christians face daily in Sudan. The story shows that we can not waver in our faith, even during those hard times. Once I started reading the book, I could not put it down. A true testament to God’s faithfulness even during the dark time. Grab a box of tissues.
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for an honest opinion. All opinions are my own.

[Mary Hake · Rating 5 out of 5]

This shocking true story made my heart heavy for all who have to suffer in this way. I had not realized the depth of the oppression and pain women faced under Sharia law. Mariam Ibraheem’s tale definitely opens readers’ eyes as she shares all she experienced because she refused to convert to Islam. From poverty and a child refugee to persecution as a Christian in Sudan, the narrative unfolds and reveals her horrific treatment and her determination to survive and rise above the evil. Her honesty and vulnerability deeply touched me as did her care for those around her who needed help. She was willing to accept her circumstances and to continue serving Christ no matter the difficulty. The book authentically relates the painful details of her life, drawing the readers into the story and capturing their interest and attention throughout. I think this is a book all should read to help understand what life is like in such conditions. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shackled is a powerful story that is written by Mariam Ibraheem. This story made me thankful that I live in the United States and do not have to hide the fact that I am a Christian. This book broke my heart so many times. I could not imagine going through what Mariam did. Mariam Ibraheem was born in a Sudan refugee camp. Her father was Muslim and her mother Ethiopian Orthodox Christian. Her father left the family when she was only six, and her mother raised her in the Christian faith. I found this ironic - since the reason she was reported to Sudan authorities was because on someone on her father's side.

Mariam is so inspirational. She was PUNISHED FOR THE WAY HER MOTHER RAISED HER. She was told her life would be spared if she renounced her Christian faith, leave her Christian husband and abandon her child. I really enjoyed following her journey and how she stood for Christ despite all the odds against her.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging Program, all thoughts are my own.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shackled is a very difficult book to read - because Mariam had a difficult life. In this autobiography/memoir Mariam Ibaheem shares her life story as a Christian (with a Muslim father) living under Sharia law in Sudan. Readers will be outraged at the things Mariam had to endure.
I think all Christians would benefit from reading Shackled. The book will open eyes to life under Sharia law. It may also open your eyes to some of the inner workings of the American government. Shackled will definitely give Christians specifics to pray about for Christians living in Muslim countries.
I would advise caution when placing Shackled in a k-12 Christian school library. Librarians should read it and make their own decisions. I would recommend it only for mature high school girls; some of the material is not really appropriate for high school boys.
I received a complimentary copy of Shackled. This is my honest review.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly, it’s hard to write into words what this book makes me feel and think. I’m a mother. I have children. Being pregnant is something I’m well versed in. But I cannot imagine being imprisoned and shackled with my nursing baby and giving birth in those shackles. Just thinking of someone going through that brings pain to my heart.

This woman went through so much and her struggle is well written out in this book. I highly encourage you to read this book and truly take to heart her story.

Would you be willing to die for your faith? What would you do if you were in her shoes?

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Maressa Mortimer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing to read. Not just horrific and shocking, but challenging as well. Mariam Ibraheem writes about her childhood as well as her experiences as an adult in such a vivid way, drawing you in. I found it challenging, as she shares her thoughts and feelings, making me think and look at my life. Her dreadful experiences are wrapped in her love for Jesus and that made the book one of the most special books I have ever read. I loved the way she reached out to others around her, I loved her compassion even for her guards and those that hurt her. I loved her courage and the way she talked about her mother as well as the Christians around her. Such an amazing book, not just as a memoir, but a book of faith.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Shackled" by Mariam Ibraheem is an inspiring book that clearly shows that God can work through what we deem impossible. This was not an easy book to read because of the abuse the author received. I couldn't read this book in one setting but I recommend every Christian should read this book. She was abused because she stood up for Christian faith! I wonder how many of us will be that strong if the time comes.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Regina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!!! This has got to be one of the best books I've read this year! I remember following Mariam's story in the news at the time and I was appalled at the disgraceful behavior of our President at the time (Obama) as she was. There was so much more to the story than I realized. Everyone needs to read this book so that their eyes can be opened to what Islam is truly like. This isn't just a few "extreme radicals." It's an entire country and just one of many. You will be inspired by this woman's strength and your faith in the goodness of God will be renewed!

[Dionne · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I also remembered these words from my mother: 'Don't be afraid. If you allow people to cause fear in your heart, you will give them control over your life.'"~pg. 210

"I would not sit down, shut up, or remain quiet."~pg. 211

"I hope they will be proud of their mother for standing for the one true God and not giving in to bullies who threaten women and children with death for not accepting their religion."~pg. 256

An incredible true story of bravery that will inspire women everywhere to stand up against patriarchy and injustice.

[Dana Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time. The life story of Sudan and Sharia Law, and the struggle of being a Christian in a Muslim country. Mariam's journey in standing for her faith, is amazing and humbling. I have never struggled like this in my faith and my choice to believe in Jesus Christ. She is a reminder that the world has so many people who are living a life of fear and pain for believing in Jesus and what we are told is not always the whole story. She stands up for freedom, human rights, and women's rights.

[Sandra Glahn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rarely do I say of a memoir that "I couldn't put it down," but that was my experience as I read Shackled by Miriam Ibraheem. It provided true-life snapshots of displacement, domestic violence, fighting for survival in a refugee camp, resourcefulness, life under Sharia law, and the courageous souls willing to fight for justice. Yet most of all, it's the story of how the Spirit gives and sustains life far beyond temporal living. Inspiring. Shocking. Motivating. This well-crafted story (it reads like a suspense novel) is all of these and more.

[Gail Suer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book everyone should read. A Christian woman is arrested in Sudan and sentenced to 100 lashes and death by hanging. Miraculously she is released after suffering many injustices in a women’s prison. Also portrayed in this probably controversial book is female circumcision, life as a woman in a Muslim country, the complete disregard of women’s rights in a Muslim marriage and family. Even more shocking is how the children are treated, put in jail along with their mothers, often to die of disease brought on by filthy conditions.

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gripping, brutal true story of a woman’s life in Sudan.Mariam is the daughter of a Muslim father and a Christian mother. The family endures abuse from the father but works hard and survives. When Mariam marries a Christian she meets the oppressive arm of Muslim law. She is imprisoned with the company of her toddler son. Her faith gives her courage and endurance while refusing to denounce her beliefs. This is an inspiring true story that makes me feel so sheltered from the realities that others face.