How often do we stay in relationships that don’t line up with the love we know we deserve? “All too often,” says first time author, advocate and domestic abuse survivor, Stephanie Strickland. But even in the bleakest of situations, Strickland believes there is a way out, a way to get back to ourselves and a way to find the peace we need to, not only survive, but to heal and be made whole.
In her debut release Finding Peace Within, Dallas,Texas native Strickland, shares her gripping journey of love and abuse and her triumph over it all. She relives her struggles as a teenage mother, high school drop-out and survivor of domestic violence while fighting to find a better life for her and her sons. With some serious self-reflection, deep-rooted faith and a little mixed martial arts, Strickland breaks down the strongholds in her life and makes it through to the other side.
Today, Strickland is an advocate for women, and believes in sharing her story to reach others who may be living the life she now has peace from. She wants her readers to remove the masks they wear daily, causing them to hide their truth. In Finding Peace Within, Strickland teaches women how to break the cycle of insecurity and inspires us to fight for the life God has promised us by sharing our stories of overcoming with others.
If you've ever wondered whether healing is possible after abuse, heartbreak, or years of believing you weren’t enough, I want you to know one thing: Your story is not over.
I’m Stephanie Strickland, a Christian author, speaker, advocate, and survivor of domestic abuse. I write for women who are searching for hope after toxic relationships, emotional pain, and seasons that left them questioning their worth. My mission is to remind every woman that her past does not define her, her voice matters, and God still has a beautiful purpose for her life.
In my debut memoir, Finding Peace Within: My Story of Truth and Triumph, I share my personal journey from surviving a long, deeply abusive marriage to rebuilding my confidence and discovering the freedom that comes through faith, truth, and healing. While my story is deeply personal, my prayer is that readers will see their own possibility for restoration within its pages.
In 2023, Finding Peace Within received the Henri Christian Literary Award in the Breakthrough category, recognizing its message of hope, courage, and restoration. Still, the greatest honor is hearing from women who say they no longer feel alone after reading it.
Whether you’re beginning your healing journey, supporting someone you love, leading a women’s ministry, or simply looking for faith-filled encouragement, I hope my words remind you that healing is possible and hope is never out of reach.
Goodreads is one of my favorite places to connect with readers. I love hearing your thoughts, answering your questions, and celebrating how stories can transform lives. If my book encouraged you, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a review or drop a note.
Thank you for being here. I hope we can walk this journey of hope, faith, and healing together.
I read this book in one sitting because I simply couldn’t put it down. From the very first page, the author pulled me into her story and kept me emotionally invested until the end. It’s raw, honest, inspiring, and beautifully shows what bravery, self-forgiveness, rebuilding, and healing truly look like.
The author’s faith in God plays a major role in her healing journey, but even if you don’t share the same beliefs, don’t let that stop you from reading this book. The heart of the story is about surviving years of abuse, overcoming shame and pain, and finding the strength to reclaim your life.
Ms. Strickland openly shares her experiences with childhood trauma, self-doubt, domestic violence, and emotional abuse at the hands of someone she loved. What makes this story so powerful is watching her slowly rebuild herself through self-awareness, support from others, determination, and learning to believe in her own worth again.
Her journey toward self-acceptance, healing, and peace is both heartbreaking and empowering. By recognizing narcissistic behaviors, learning to stand up for herself, and realizing the kind of life she truly deserves, she shows readers that healing is possible. I truly believe her story will inspire and encourage so many people who may be fighting similar battles.
I read the entire book in one sitting! It grabbed my attention and held my interest until the very last line. This book was real, uplifting, and provided a clear picture of what bravery, self-forgivemess, rebuilding, and healing looks like.
The author's strong faith in God is an integral part of her healing, however even if it's not your belief system, please don't let that deter you from reading because it doesn't take away from the message of overcoming decades of abuse and the residual feelings of hurt and shame.
Ms. Strickland eloquently unmasks her life of childhood pain, self-doubt, domestic violence, and enduring all types of abuse by someone she loved. Through consciousness efforts of reconstructing her life, establishing a supportive circle of influence, and believing in herself, the author showed how living life with self-acceptance and patience leads to healing and peace. Armed with recognizing the behaviors of a narcissist, learning how to aggressively fight for herself, and having a clear picture of the life she deserves leads me to believe that she will continue to be triumphant in her journey.
Highly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great writing debut ❣️ 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
I didn’t go into this book expecting anything life, changing, but it ended up being exactly what I needed. I’ve been dealing with a lot of stress lately, and this felt like a quiet reminder to slow down and trust God more. It’s not overwhelming or complicated, just honest and comforting. I found myself highlighting a few parts because they really spoke to what I’ve been going through.
Definitely a good read if you’re feeling mentally or emotionally drained.
I really enjoyed Finding Peace Within: My Story of Truth and Triumph. Stephanie Strickland shares her story in a very honest and heartfelt way, which made it easy to connect with. The book is emotional, inspiring, and full of hope. What I liked most was the reminder that peace and healing are possible, even after difficult times. It’s a meaningful read with a powerful message, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an uplifting and inspiring book.
This book was recommended to me by a friend, and I’m so glad I picked it up because once I started reading, I couldn’t stop. I finished it in one sitting. It’s one of those stories that pulls you in emotionally and stays with you long after you’re done.
What really stood out to me was how honest and real the author was about her life. She shares her experiences with childhood trauma, self-doubt, domestic violence, and emotional abuse in such a raw but powerful way. Even through all the pain, her story is ultimately about healing, self-worth, and finding the strength to rebuild your life.
Her faith in God is a big part of her journey, but even if you don’t share the same beliefs, the message is still incredibly relatable and inspiring. At its core, this book is about surviving hard things, learning to love yourself again, and realizing you deserve peace and happiness.
I also appreciated how she talked about recognizing narcissistic behavior, setting boundaries, and learning to fight for herself. Watching her grow into someone who believes in her own value was both heartbreaking and uplifting.
If you enjoy real, emotional stories about resilience, healing, and personal growth, I’d definitely recommend giving this book a read.
When I first came across Finding Peace Within, I wasn't convinced it would be as good as my cousin kept saying. I thought it might be just another memoir, but after reading it, I completely changed my mind.
This book is powerful, honest, and incredibly inspiring. Stephanie Strickland shares her story with so much courage and authenticity that it's impossible not to get emotionally invested. Her journey of overcoming abuse, hardship, and self-doubt while finding peace and strength is truly moving.
This book is a perfect reminder not to judge a book by its cover. It exceeded my expectations and left a lasting impact on me. I'm already looking forward to reading more from this author. Highly recommended!
I picked this up at the right time. It reminded me to slow down, trust more, and stop trying to control everything. Sometimes you don’t need a big book, just the right one.
I picked up "Finding Peace Within' expecting a story of survival, but what I found was so much more. Stephanie Strickland's memoir is raw, honest, and deeply moving. From the very first chapter, I felt like I was sitting across from a close friend who had finally found the courage to share her truth.
What touched me most was how openly Stephanie writes about the difficult moments in her life—the abuse, the self-doubt, the fear, and the painful choices she had to make. None of it felt exaggerated or sugar-coated. Instead, it felt incredibly real, which made her journey toward healing even more powerful.
As I read, I found myself reflecting on how many people silently carry emotional wounds while presenting a brave face to the world. Stephanie's story is a reminder that healing isn't a straight path. It's messy, painful, and requires tremendous courage, but it is possible.
Her faith played a significant role in her healing journey, and even readers who may not share the same beliefs can still connect with the universal themes of resilience, self-worth, forgiveness, and finding the strength to start over.
There were several moments that brought tears to my eyes, but there were just as many that filled me with hope. By the end of the book, I wasn't just inspired by Stephanie's survival, I was inspired by her willingness to use her pain to help others.
This is more than a memoir, it's a testament to the human spirit and a powerful reminder that peace can be found, even after the darkest seasons of life.
What makes Finding Peace Within particularly compelling is Stephanie Strickland's honesty in sharing the realities of her life. She recounts becoming a teenage mother, leaving high school, and enduring years of domestic abuse without softening the difficult details. Rather than presenting a perfect success story, she allows readers to see the fear, uncertainty, and emotional struggles that accompanied each stage of her journey, making her experiences feel authentic and relatable.
One of the strongest aspects of the memoir is its focus on personal transformation. Strickland doesn't stop at describing hardship; she explores the work required to rebuild a life after trauma. Through faith, self-reflection, supportive relationships, and her involvement in mixed martial arts, she gradually develops the confidence to challenge destructive patterns and reclaim her sense of self. The book repeatedly emphasizes the importance of confronting painful truths rather than hiding behind the masks people often create for protection.
I’ve read Finding Peace Within more than once now, and each time I come back to it, I take away something different. Stephanie Strickland wrote this book with such raw honesty and emotional depth that it feels less like reading a memoir and more like sitting across from someone sharing their soul with you.
What stayed with me most is how genuine her journey feels. She doesn’t try to present herself as perfect or pretend healing is easy, and that’s what makes the book so powerful. There were chapters I had to pause and reread because the emotions and reflections hit so deeply the second time around. Some lines honestly stayed in my mind long after I finished the book.
I also love how comforting and encouraging the message is without ever feeling forced. It’s a story about pain, growth, forgiveness, strength, and learning how to truly find peace within yourself. You can feel the heart behind every page.
This is one of those books that becomes more meaningful every time you revisit it. If you’ve ever struggled, searched for clarity, or needed a reminder that healing is possible, this book will speak to you in a very personal way.
“Finding Peace Within” is one of those rare books that feels genuinely honest from beginning to end. Stephanie Strickland shares her story with so much vulnerability and strength that it’s hard not to connect with her on a personal level. The way she talks about pain, healing, self-discovery, and resilience feels very real, not overly polished or forced.
What I appreciated most was how inspiring the book felt without sounding preachy. It reminds you that even after difficult experiences, it’s still possible to grow, heal, and find peace within yourself. There were several moments that made me stop and reflect on my own life and mindset.
Stephanie’s writing style is warm, emotional, and easy to follow, which makes the book hard to put down. You can truly feel the heart behind every chapter. If you enjoy personal growth stories, emotional journeys, and uplifting messages about overcoming challenges, this is definitely a book worth reading.
It was very difficult for me to read this book. I don't want domestic abuse to even exist. But it does. It was good for me to see it from the inside. I had always wondered why women stayed in these situations and now I have a better feel for it. In the past, I have donated to women's shelters and this book inspired me to give more. I never want a woman to think she has nowhere to go or no one to help her. Stephanie is one badass woman and I hope she inspires others to find a way out of toxic situations.
I give the editors, literarybae, only 3 stars. They probably need fresh eyes to read the final draft. Editing is hard and after reading something multiple times you start seeing what you expect rather than what's on the paper.
I picked up Finding Peace Within: My Story of Truth and Triumph not knowing exactly what to expect, but this book turned out to be a truly inspiring and unforgettable read. Stephanie Strickland shares her journey with such honesty, vulnerability, and strength that it’s impossible not to feel connected to her story. What makes this book stand out is its powerful message of healing, resilience, and finding peace even in life’s darkest moments. It’s emotional, uplifting, and filled with hope, the kind of book that stays with you long after the last page. If you enjoy heartfelt stories that inspire and remind you of the strength of the human spirit, this is definitely a book worth reading. Highly recommended!
A friend recommended Finding Peace Within: My Story of Truth and Triumph to me, and I honestly couldn’t put it down. Stephanie Strickland shares her journey with such raw honesty, courage, and emotional depth that every chapter feels both deeply personal and incredibly inspiring.
This memoir is filled with hope, resilience, healing, and powerful life lessons that stay with you long after the final page. The author’s ability to turn pain into purpose makes this book not only uplifting but also truly unforgettable.
If you enjoy inspirational memoirs, stories of personal growth, and books about overcoming adversity and finding inner peace, this is absolutely a must-read. Highly recommended for anyone searching for encouragement, strength, and motivation through real-life experiences.
Stephanie Strickland delivers a deeply moving and inspiring memoir in Finding Peace Within. Her honesty, courage, and vulnerability shine through every page, making this book both heartbreaking and empowering. Stephanie’s journey from pain and struggle to healing and strength is a powerful reminder that no matter how difficult life becomes, it is possible to overcome and rediscover peace within yourself. Her story of faith, resilience, and determination will resonate with many readers, especially women searching for hope and encouragement. This book is not only a testimony of survival but also a celebration of personal growth, self worth, and triumph over adversity.
I came across Finding Peace Within: My Story of Truth and Triumph while searching for an inspiring read, and it truly exceeded my expectations. Stephanie Strickland shares her story with honesty, emotion, and strength, making it both powerful and deeply inspiring. What stood out to me most was how genuine and relatable the journey felt. It’s the kind of book that reminds you that healing and peace are possible, no matter what life brings. An uplifting and meaningful read that deserves more attention. Highly recommended!
Finding Peace Within: My Story of Truth and Triumph is more than a book, it’s a survivor’s heartbeat poured onto the page. Stephanie Strickland’s story is raw, painful, courageous, and deeply inspiring. Every chapter reminds you that even after abuse, heartbreak, and struggle, healing is still possible.
This book doesn’t just tell a story, it reaches into your soul and whispers, “You can overcome too.” A powerful, emotional read that will leave you in tears, but also full of hope.
This book is a testimony of faith, redemption, and God’s healing power.
Stephanie Strickland’s journey shows how even in the darkest situations, abuse, fear, and brokenness, there is a path to peace through faith and self, discovery.
While the writing is simple and sometimes feels unpolished, the authenticity and emotional weight carry the book. Stephanie’s story of surviving domestic abuse and rebuilding her life is undeniably impactful.
I picked up this book out of curiosity, but I stayed because it felt like someone truly understood what I couldn't put into words. Stephanie writes with such honesty and heart that it felt more like a conversation than a book. Every page gave me something to reflect on and reminded me that healing begins with embracing our truth. This is one of those books you'll carry with you long after you finish it. Stephanie, thank you for sharing your story, your courage and your words will touch more lives than you know. ❤️❤️❤️👍
Finding Peace Within is a beautiful and heartfelt book. Stephanie shares her story with honesty, strength, and hope, making it easy to connect with her journey. It reminded me that no matter what we go through, there is always a path toward healing and peace. A truly inspiring read that I would recommend to anyone looking for encouragement and hope.
Finding Peace Within: My Story of Truth and Triumph
By
Stephanie Strickland
Rating:5/5
Description:
How often do we stay in relationships that don’t line up with the love we know we deserve? “All too often,” says first time author, advocate and domestic abuse survivor, Stephanie Strickland. But even in the bleakest of situations, Strickland believes there is a way out, a way to get back to ourselves and a way to find the peace we need to, not only survive, but to heal and be made whole.In her debut release Finding Peace Within, Dallas,Texas native Strickland, shares her gripping journey of love and abuse and her triumph over it all. She relives her struggles as a teenage mother, high school drop-out and survivor of domestic violence while fighting to find a better life for her and her sons. With some serious self-reflection, deep-rooted faith and a little mixed martial arts, Strickland breaks down the strongholds in her life and makes it through to the other side.Today, Strickland is an advocate for women, and believes in sharing her story to reach others who may be living the life she now has peace from. She wants her readers to remove the masks they wear daily, causing them to hide their truth.
Review:
👉Talking about the title of the book, the title of the book is really so interesting to read.
👉The cover is appealing and attractive as well.Writing style is appreciable .The author tells her life of childhood pain, self- doubt, domestic violence, and how she undergo all types of pain by someone she loved yet fix up her life so beautifully established and believing in herself. Even in awful situations she dealt positively finding way out, way to get back to ourselves and a way to find the peace from within that we all need to manifest, not only survive, but to heal and be made whole. This book is exceptionally well rendered how living life with self- acceptance and patience leads to healing and peace.
This felt like sitting down with someone who’s finally ready to tell the truth. There’s something about Stephanie’s story that just pulls you in, maybe because it’s not trying too hard. It’s just honest. Messy, painful, but also hopeful in a very real way. I especially loved how she talks about breaking cycles, not just leaving a bad relationship, but actually doing the inner work to not go back to the same patterns.
If you’ve ever felt stuck, overlooked, or unsure of your worth… this book will speak to you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A POWERFUL TESTAMENT TO THE STRENGTH OF THE HUMAN SPIRIT!
Some books tell a story, while others touch your soul, awaken something deep within you, and remind you of the strength you never knew you possessed. Finding Peace Within: My Story of Truth and Triumph by Stephanie Strickland sounds like one of those extraordinary books that does far more than tell a story it offers hope, courage, healing, and a beautiful reminder that our past does not have to define our future.
What makes Stephanie’s story so powerful is the courage it takes to turn personal pain into a source of inspiration for others. Her journey through the challenges of teenage motherhood, interrupted education, domestic violence, and the determination to build a better life for herself and her sons speaks to the resilience of a woman who refused to let her circumstances write the final chapter of her life.
One of the most beautiful things about a story like this is its reminder that choosing yourself, reclaiming your worth, and walking away from what breaks you are not signs of weakness, but profound acts of courage. Sometimes, finding peace means confronting painful truths, removing the masks we wear to please others, and finding the strength to believe that we deserve a life filled with love, dignity, and genuine happiness.
I especially appreciate the emphasis on faith, self-reflection, and the power of sharing our stories. There is something deeply moving about a woman who has faced difficult seasons choosing to use her voice to encourage others who may still be searching for a way out. That is the beauty of turning pain into purpose: what once felt like a private struggle can become a light guiding someone else toward hope.
Stephanie Strickland’s message is a timely reminder that healing is possible, that our worth is never determined by the way others treat us, and that even after seasons of heartbreak, we can begin again. Her willingness to share her journey is an act of courage that deserves to be celebrated, especially because stories like hers can help women feel seen, understood, and less alone.
To Stephanie Strickland: thank you for having the courage to share your truth. It takes a special kind of strength to transform painful experiences into a message of hope for others. Your story has the potential to remind someone that their current circumstances are not the end of their story, that they are worthy of peace, and that a brighter tomorrow is still possible.
Finding Peace Within is a beautiful title because peace is not always something we find in the world around us; sometimes, it begins with the difficult but liberating decision to find ourselves again. May this book continue to reach the women who need its message most, inspire meaningful conversations, and remind every reader that it is never too late to reclaim their voice, embrace their worth, and choose healing.
A story of truth, courage, faith, and triumph a reminder that surviving is only the beginning, and that we all deserve the opportunity to truly live.
Finding Peace Within is an extraordinary debut memoir that captures the resilience and determination of a woman who refused to be defined by the pain of her past. Stephanie Strickland courageously recounts her life’s most challenging moments—from navigating the difficulties of teenage motherhood and dropping out of high school, to enduring abusive relationships and the complex aftermath of trauma. Through her candid storytelling, she allows readers to witness not only the depth of her struggles but also the remarkable strength and perseverance that carried her forward.
What makes this memoir particularly compelling is Strickland’s ability to blend vulnerability with empowerment. She does not shy away from exposing the raw realities of domestic abuse, self-doubt, and the emotional scars left behind, yet she simultaneously offers practical insights and personal strategies for healing. Whether it’s her dedication to self-reflection, the discipline gained through martial arts, or the faith that anchors her journey, every element of her story demonstrates the deliberate steps she took to reclaim her life and sense of self-worth.
Strickland’s narrative is both intimate and universal. While deeply personal, her experiences reflect challenges faced by countless others—showing readers that recovery and self-acceptance are achievable even after the most devastating circumstances. Her writing carries a warmth and honesty that make the story not only relatable but inspiring, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people, recognizing harmful patterns, and finding courage to confront and overcome adversity. Finding Peace Within is more than a memoir; it is a testament to resilience, hope, and the transformative power of self-belief. Stephanie Strickland’s story resonates as a guide for anyone seeking to emerge from trauma with strength, grace, and clarity. It’s a book that encourages readers to confront their past, honor their journey, and embrace the possibility of healing and renewal.
Some books touch your heart because of the story they tell, while others connect with you because they remind you of feelings you have experienced yourself. Finding Peace Within was that kind of read for me.
Having gone through a major accident that left me in a wheelchair, I've learned that life can change in ways you never expect. And growing up around parents who were sometimes emotionally hurtful toward each other has also shown me how deeply the atmosphere at home can affect a person. Maybe that's why certain parts of Stephanie's journey felt especially close to my heart.
What I appreciated most was the author's willingness to be vulnerable. It takes courage to revisit painful experiences, especially those that have shaped the way you see yourself and the world. Stephanie doesn't present herself as someone who had everything figured out. Her journey feels human, with struggles, difficult realizations, and the determination to build a better life despite everything she has been through.
I finished this book feeling emotional, but also hopeful. It reminded me that our painful experiences don't have to define the rest of our lives, and that we deserve kindness, respect, and a chance to begin again.
Finding Peace Within is a deeply personal memoir that I believe will resonate with anyone who has struggled with difficult relationships, self-doubt, or the process of rebuilding themselves after painful experiences. Stephanie's honesty is what makes this book meaningful, and I hope her story reaches someone who needs the reminder that they are not alone and that a more peaceful life is possible.
Title: A Raw, Powerful, and Hopeful Memoir of Survival
Finding Peace Within is the kind of book that stays with you long after you've finished reading. Stephanie Strickland's courage in sharing her deeply personal story of survival, resilience, and ultimate triumph is nothing short of inspiring.
From her struggles as a teenage mother and high school dropout to surviving domestic abuse, Strickland doesn't shy away from the painful details. But what makes this memoir so powerful is that it is not a story of victimhood—it is a story of strength. She walks readers through her darkest moments with raw honesty, then shows us, step by step, how she fought her way back to herself.
I particularly appreciated the unique blend of elements in her healing journey: deep-rooted faith, serious self-reflection, and even mixed martial arts. It's a reminder that healing looks different for everyone and that sometimes, finding your strength means literally learning to fight back.
This book is a lifeline for anyone who has ever felt trapped in a toxic relationship or lost sight of who they are. Strickland's message is clear: you are not alone, there is a way out, and peace is possible. She is an advocate with a voice that needs to be heard, and this book is a testament to the power of sharing our stories to help others break free.
A must-read for survivors, advocates, and anyone who believes in the power of the human spirit to overcome.
Book Review – Finding Peace Within: My Story of Truth and Triumph
Stephanie Strickland’s debut memoir, Finding Peace Within, is a raw, courageous, and deeply inspiring account of survival, faith, and resilience. With unflinching honesty, Strickland shares her journey through the painful realities of teenage motherhood, dropping out of high school, and enduring domestic abuse—while fighting to reclaim her worth and build a better life for her sons.
What makes this memoir especially compelling is Strickland’s refusal to let her past define her future. Through faith, self-reflection, and even the discipline of mixed martial arts, she discovers the strength to break free from cycles of abuse and insecurity. Her voice is equal parts vulnerable and empowering, making readers feel not only her pain but also her triumph.
More than a memoir, Finding Peace Within is a call to action. Strickland encourages women to take off the masks of silence and shame, to embrace their truth, and to believe in the life God has promised them. It’s a reminder that peace is not only possible but within reach when we choose to rise, heal, and share our stories.
Some stories feel personal—but Finding Peace Within: My Story of Truth and Triumph feels deeply lived. Stephanie Strickland shares her journey with a level of honesty that makes it more than just a memoir—it feels like a testimony of survival, healing, and self-discovery.
What makes this book powerful is the reality behind it. From being a teenage mother and high school dropout to surviving domestic abuse, the story follows her struggle to rebuild her life while raising her sons and searching for something better. One line that reflects the heart of the book is: “All too often” referring to how people stay in relationships that don’t reflect the love they deserve. That idea runs throughout the narrative, showing how difficult—but possible—it is to break those cycles.
Overall, this is not just a story of hardship but of transformation. I’d recommend it to readers who appreciate real-life journeys filled with resilience, faith, and emotional strength. It’s a meaningful and inspiring read that reminds you healing is possible, even after the most difficult chapters.