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She Seems So Normal: Shatter the Plastic Princess, Embrace Authentic Faith
For two decades, Leigh Mackenzie strived desperately to be the image of Christian perfection―a self-proclaimed “Plastic Princess”―to cover childhood trauma, shame, and anxiety.In She Seems So Normal, Leigh shares honestly about predatory grooming, childhood sexual abuse, and its collateral damage through the documentary narrative of her own biblical trauma healing.Her journey inspires you BELIEVE Jesus heals emotional, spiritual, physical, and relational brokenness.ENCOURAGE survivors, families, and trauma supporters to use every resource available to heal.EMBRACE messy stories of Church people and point them to the Savior.EMPOWER yourself with practical de-escalation and coping mechanisms for PTSD, anxiety, and depression.CHALLENGE existing views on mental health and church.Have you been a Plastic Princess Church Girl, too?Walk with Leigh through the valley to find the hope, healing, and reconciliation to shatter your own façade and find authentic faith.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2022
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November 11, 2022
When Leigh led me into She Seems So Normal, her story of the betrayal and childhood sexual abuse that broke and nearly destroyed her and her family, I trusted she’d guard me, and see me through.
She did. With the same strength and courage that landed her a cadet position at West Point, she blazed a path past unconscionable early predatory grooming and trauma, through the choices and mental illness that resulted from those violations, and into the truth and peace that extracted her from the hell of terrifying, suppressed memories. No longer a “plastic princess,” in this book she breaks the silence that kept the child inside of her caged by fear and self-reproach.
Vulnerable and sacrificial in her candor, Leigh gives readers who long to escape the aftermath of similar trauma an experienced guide through the raw, real zigzag of emotional healing. Best described as a stream-of-consciousness documentary, her story takes us into her panic attacks, suicidal depression, and painful exchanges with her husband and children, then rescues us right along with her—with the comfort and instruction she received from a remarkable therapist, medical professionals, a battalion of pray-ers, her steadfast husband, and the loving intervention of the Holy Spirit.
This book is a companion, a hope-bringer, a truth-teller, and a call to arms of honesty in and from the family of God. “In this world you will have trouble,” Jesus told his disciples. “But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Leigh’s life is a poignant, powerful illustration of exactly that.
* I had the privilege of reading an advance copy of the book, for which I wrote the foreword. This review is excerpted from those comments.
She did. With the same strength and courage that landed her a cadet position at West Point, she blazed a path past unconscionable early predatory grooming and trauma, through the choices and mental illness that resulted from those violations, and into the truth and peace that extracted her from the hell of terrifying, suppressed memories. No longer a “plastic princess,” in this book she breaks the silence that kept the child inside of her caged by fear and self-reproach.
Vulnerable and sacrificial in her candor, Leigh gives readers who long to escape the aftermath of similar trauma an experienced guide through the raw, real zigzag of emotional healing. Best described as a stream-of-consciousness documentary, her story takes us into her panic attacks, suicidal depression, and painful exchanges with her husband and children, then rescues us right along with her—with the comfort and instruction she received from a remarkable therapist, medical professionals, a battalion of pray-ers, her steadfast husband, and the loving intervention of the Holy Spirit.
This book is a companion, a hope-bringer, a truth-teller, and a call to arms of honesty in and from the family of God. “In this world you will have trouble,” Jesus told his disciples. “But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Leigh’s life is a poignant, powerful illustration of exactly that.
* I had the privilege of reading an advance copy of the book, for which I wrote the foreword. This review is excerpted from those comments.
December 15, 2022
In She Seems So Normal, the author is honest, vulnerable, and brave, revealing her trauma from the past, the long-term effects, and her faith, hope and healing she found in Christ. The analogy of a plastic princess is spot on—especially in our digital age, where people show outward beauty and happiness, when inside is a hurting soul.
What I like most about this book is how the author uses her painful, traumatic past to help others and to lead them to the healing love of Jesus. Perseverance builds character, and hers shines through in her story. She is now a vessel to share God’s message, and that’s a beautiful, compassionate thing to be.
First Line: As a kid in the ‘70s and ‘80s, Saturday mornings sometimes meant window-shopping at the mall with my mom and sister.
Genre: Christian self-help
Author: Leigh Mackenzie
Page Count: 261
Content: Sexual Abuse
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
What I like most about this book is how the author uses her painful, traumatic past to help others and to lead them to the healing love of Jesus. Perseverance builds character, and hers shines through in her story. She is now a vessel to share God’s message, and that’s a beautiful, compassionate thing to be.
First Line: As a kid in the ‘70s and ‘80s, Saturday mornings sometimes meant window-shopping at the mall with my mom and sister.
Genre: Christian self-help
Author: Leigh Mackenzie
Page Count: 261
Content: Sexual Abuse
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
December 9, 2022
I was not looking forward to reading this book because I knew it would trigger me in many ways. However it was so important for me to finish the book and hear from another person who has experienced trauma like me. Many of us think we are the only ones out there who have gone through sexual abuse, but sadly there are more than we realize. I appreciate the author’s insights and how she used scriptures and Biblical stories to illustrated that with Jesus we have hope.
Like her, I thought people would protect me especially my parents. How wrong I was. It was like a fake happy family when in public, but the most dysfunctional family behind closed doors for me. Who did I have to save me if my own parents wouldn’t? After all they were part of the abuse so why would they? After many years I found my answer. God was there every moment, taking my pain and surrounding me with His grace and mercy.
The author explains the feelings of abandonment, anger and rejection as some of the feelings she went through on her journey. I discovered that she also had an eating disorder like me. It was a tool I used to try to cope with things and also for me it was to punish myself. Oh yes I felt guilt every time I was abused.
I appreciate how the author is candid and shares experiences that were painful and emotionally traumatic. I love how she includes verses at the end of every chapter for readers. I am very thankful she addressed mental health and how the Body of Christ doesn’t quite understand it. There are scriptures about renewing your mind and I know that one well. As the author explains, God gave her coping gifts. I never thought about this before. He allowed her to “forget people’s faces, fierceness and strength.
The book is heavy at times with real emotions and trauma that the author walked through. I liked how she had a supportive husband and friends that surrounded her as she went through this healing. We may see on the outside that someone looks fine, but beneath that face is pain that is hard to describe. Thank you for writing a book that encourages others and gives us hope as we walk our own journey to healing.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit.The review is my own opinion.
Like her, I thought people would protect me especially my parents. How wrong I was. It was like a fake happy family when in public, but the most dysfunctional family behind closed doors for me. Who did I have to save me if my own parents wouldn’t? After all they were part of the abuse so why would they? After many years I found my answer. God was there every moment, taking my pain and surrounding me with His grace and mercy.
The author explains the feelings of abandonment, anger and rejection as some of the feelings she went through on her journey. I discovered that she also had an eating disorder like me. It was a tool I used to try to cope with things and also for me it was to punish myself. Oh yes I felt guilt every time I was abused.
I appreciate how the author is candid and shares experiences that were painful and emotionally traumatic. I love how she includes verses at the end of every chapter for readers. I am very thankful she addressed mental health and how the Body of Christ doesn’t quite understand it. There are scriptures about renewing your mind and I know that one well. As the author explains, God gave her coping gifts. I never thought about this before. He allowed her to “forget people’s faces, fierceness and strength.
The book is heavy at times with real emotions and trauma that the author walked through. I liked how she had a supportive husband and friends that surrounded her as she went through this healing. We may see on the outside that someone looks fine, but beneath that face is pain that is hard to describe. Thank you for writing a book that encourages others and gives us hope as we walk our own journey to healing.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit.The review is my own opinion.
December 15, 2022
She Seems So Normal by Leigh Mackenzie was a well-written book. However, the book can be triggering for some readers who have been victims of trauma including child sexual abuse and military rape assault.
For me, She Seems So Normal was a book of healing I didn’t realize I needed. It exposed the truth about how trauma victims cope so they can live a so-called normal life. The problem is that those secrets and horrific memories will resurface and create havoc somewhere along the way. Like the author, the resurfacing caused identity issues.
Initially, reading She Seems So Normal was interesting until it recounted in delicate detail how the resurfacing of past trauma experiences arrive. Sure, the memories from trauma dull as the years go by, but the pain felt never truly subsides. It is just stuffed down deep so a person can function. However, the trauma flashes show up when you least expect them.
Truth be told, I had to read the book in short increments to give myself time to recover after each chapter. Early on, I thought the book was too much, but halfway through, I felt differently.
Surprisingly, I was finally releasing the emotions that kept me stuck for years. It was oddly wonderful.
The biggest takeaway from reading She Seems So Normal is that it is not a guide but a book to say it is okay to have issues and that you can get help to recover. You are not alone. It takes you through the ugliness of trauma but with a purpose, and it provides others a glimpse into what stuffed down pain does from someone who has lived it. I appreciate the courage the author had to share her experiences. I especially appreciated her use of God’s Holy Word to keep the reader grounded in God. He is the only one who can give you strength to truly overcome. Reading it turned out to be an incredible blessing. I give the book 5 stars.
Note: I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review nor compensated for sharing my thoughts. I am disclosing this per FTC regulations.
For me, She Seems So Normal was a book of healing I didn’t realize I needed. It exposed the truth about how trauma victims cope so they can live a so-called normal life. The problem is that those secrets and horrific memories will resurface and create havoc somewhere along the way. Like the author, the resurfacing caused identity issues.
Initially, reading She Seems So Normal was interesting until it recounted in delicate detail how the resurfacing of past trauma experiences arrive. Sure, the memories from trauma dull as the years go by, but the pain felt never truly subsides. It is just stuffed down deep so a person can function. However, the trauma flashes show up when you least expect them.
Truth be told, I had to read the book in short increments to give myself time to recover after each chapter. Early on, I thought the book was too much, but halfway through, I felt differently.
Surprisingly, I was finally releasing the emotions that kept me stuck for years. It was oddly wonderful.
The biggest takeaway from reading She Seems So Normal is that it is not a guide but a book to say it is okay to have issues and that you can get help to recover. You are not alone. It takes you through the ugliness of trauma but with a purpose, and it provides others a glimpse into what stuffed down pain does from someone who has lived it. I appreciate the courage the author had to share her experiences. I especially appreciated her use of God’s Holy Word to keep the reader grounded in God. He is the only one who can give you strength to truly overcome. Reading it turned out to be an incredible blessing. I give the book 5 stars.
Note: I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review nor compensated for sharing my thoughts. I am disclosing this per FTC regulations.
December 22, 2022
I knew going into this book that the author’s story would be heavy and emotional. I just did not expect how much, however. I also did not expect how much hope she would weave into her experience. Despite the trauma and the pain that Mackenzie endured, she still continuously points back to Christ and His goodness. No matter what, she recognizes that God is in control of her life and she has nothing to fear anymore.
I appreciate how real and vulnerable Mackenzie was in her story. Unfortunately, she is one of many who has suffered from sexual abuse and the mental issues that arise from it. But she does not hide behind a mask, does not pretend to be a “plastic princess” (the term she uses in her book). She wants others to hear her true story, to be encouraged and supported by it, and to learn and grow in knowledge from it. I myself knew some about sexual abuse and the mental and physical issues that accompany it. But my knowledge is still somewhat limited. This book opened my eyes to the full extent of the pain and trauma that sexual abuse can put on a person, and the journey that a victim has to take in order to become a survivor.
This book is real and raw, but important, because not only does Mackenzie share her pain, she also shares her triumphs, her victories, her faith. She attributes her healing to God and the people that He put in her life to be able to come to a place where she is no longer haunted by the memories and pain. She is able to have the courage to stand up to her trauma. She is still standing, and I hope that her story inspires many others to continue to stand.
I had received a copy of the book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.
I appreciate how real and vulnerable Mackenzie was in her story. Unfortunately, she is one of many who has suffered from sexual abuse and the mental issues that arise from it. But she does not hide behind a mask, does not pretend to be a “plastic princess” (the term she uses in her book). She wants others to hear her true story, to be encouraged and supported by it, and to learn and grow in knowledge from it. I myself knew some about sexual abuse and the mental and physical issues that accompany it. But my knowledge is still somewhat limited. This book opened my eyes to the full extent of the pain and trauma that sexual abuse can put on a person, and the journey that a victim has to take in order to become a survivor.
This book is real and raw, but important, because not only does Mackenzie share her pain, she also shares her triumphs, her victories, her faith. She attributes her healing to God and the people that He put in her life to be able to come to a place where she is no longer haunted by the memories and pain. She is able to have the courage to stand up to her trauma. She is still standing, and I hope that her story inspires many others to continue to stand.
I had received a copy of the book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.
November 28, 2022
Warning: yes, there are triggers in this book, so put it down for a little bit, get a cup of tea, and come back to finish it. There is personal growth that is found through this baring of the soul. This book is like sitting down for an honest chat with a dear friend who loves you. It is a caring mentor's words guiding you through those painfully difficult things by sharing her own experiences, telling what worked for her, and suggesting what might work for you. She shows how to break through to an authentic you -- the true person God meant you to be. Each concise chapter is packed with scripture references for reflection, as well as QRT codes to link to podcasts or for more explanations about things referenced in the chapter. It is not easy to have gone through those things. Above all else, it is not easy sharing those things publicly. I applaud her bravery to face those things, the courage to share her story, and her determination to help others move beyond it. Read this book and come away as the person that God wants you to be; the person you are meant to share with the world: THE REAL YOU. I think if more and more of us embraced our authentic self and lived forgiveness (not just practice it, but live it), the world would be a more peaceful place to live. Thank you, Leigh, for being a guiding light from God.
December 5, 2022
This book is a must-read for anyone who's ever been sexually abused or assaulted. Leigh does a great job of recounting her experiences. I felt she gave just enough details for the readers to know what they should to empathize with and relate to her. She's open and honest in her writing. She also made me aware of the long-term effects of sexual trauma that survivors go through.
What I love most about Leigh is how she points the readers to God for healing and restoration from abuse. Her style is gentle, not preachy. She stresses the importance of therapy but at the same time does an excellent job demonstrating that it's the power of the Holy Spirit that can help us achieve true freedom and joy. Our hope rests in Jesus.
She Seems So Normal also urges women to be their authentic selves and bring their mess to God and trusted fellow believers instead of putting on a mask and pretending that we're perfect. This is an important message because the "church culture" does put certain expectations on women to look, talk, and act in a certain way, and we need to have a conversation about the impacts of such a culture.
Even though I've not experienced sexual abuse, I could relate to Leigh in so many ways.
Love this book. I can't wait to read more books from Leigh.
What I love most about Leigh is how she points the readers to God for healing and restoration from abuse. Her style is gentle, not preachy. She stresses the importance of therapy but at the same time does an excellent job demonstrating that it's the power of the Holy Spirit that can help us achieve true freedom and joy. Our hope rests in Jesus.
She Seems So Normal also urges women to be their authentic selves and bring their mess to God and trusted fellow believers instead of putting on a mask and pretending that we're perfect. This is an important message because the "church culture" does put certain expectations on women to look, talk, and act in a certain way, and we need to have a conversation about the impacts of such a culture.
Even though I've not experienced sexual abuse, I could relate to Leigh in so many ways.
Love this book. I can't wait to read more books from Leigh.
November 17, 2022
Leigh shares an open and honest narrative of her life that can be painful to read, yet points the way to healing for others living with trauma.
This quote from Chapter 21 provides a good glimpse of the heart behind this book: "With pom-poms to spare, I'm here cheering YOU on from the other side of this shadow-death valley... All I ask: once you cross, turn around and help cheer on the next one in the valley cuz soon there could be an army of us shouting, "Keep going! You can do it!"
This book isn't a self-help Christian book that hastily tries to tie up loose ends and present everything in a pretty package. It shatters the plastic princess. But, it doesn't leave her in pieces. Instead, it relates to the heartbreaking realities that many women endure and empowers them with a set of tools to start and continue on their own healing journey.
I especially love the QR codes found throughout the book that lead to Leigh's podcast episodes and readings and additional resources. This book has been thoughtfully written and bound with great care from beginning to end. It's such an important and relevant read.
This quote from Chapter 21 provides a good glimpse of the heart behind this book: "With pom-poms to spare, I'm here cheering YOU on from the other side of this shadow-death valley... All I ask: once you cross, turn around and help cheer on the next one in the valley cuz soon there could be an army of us shouting, "Keep going! You can do it!"
This book isn't a self-help Christian book that hastily tries to tie up loose ends and present everything in a pretty package. It shatters the plastic princess. But, it doesn't leave her in pieces. Instead, it relates to the heartbreaking realities that many women endure and empowers them with a set of tools to start and continue on their own healing journey.
I especially love the QR codes found throughout the book that lead to Leigh's podcast episodes and readings and additional resources. This book has been thoughtfully written and bound with great care from beginning to end. It's such an important and relevant read.
December 28, 2022
She Seems So Normal is a first-hand account sharing about abuse and trauma but also about God and His infinite love and mercy. This book is non-fiction and it’s the kind that you can’t read in one setting. While it’s real and raw and compelling it’s also hard and heavy. I was captured by it but I also needed time to process and work through all that happened to the author and what she was able to overcome.
I think this is an excellently written book. The author did an amazing job of sharing her trauma and experiences while also bonding with readers. I can’t say you’ll love this book. Because you won’t. There is too much hurt and trauma in it. But for the healing and the moving, you will be compelled to keep it on your shelf and maybe even reread it or share it with someone who might need the words.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through 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.
I think this is an excellently written book. The author did an amazing job of sharing her trauma and experiences while also bonding with readers. I can’t say you’ll love this book. Because you won’t. There is too much hurt and trauma in it. But for the healing and the moving, you will be compelled to keep it on your shelf and maybe even reread it or share it with someone who might need the words.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through 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.
November 16, 2022
She Seems So Normal: Shatter the Plastic Princess, Embrace Authentic Faith is a groundbreaking read for trauma survivors and those who come alongside them. Leigh "normalizes" vulnerability, authenticity, and hope despite the horrific in this life. Sensitive to trigger points for her readers, Leigh shares her redemption story sewn together by the scarlet thread of God's abiding and redeeming love.
Leigh's biblical insight and wisdom are on target, offering practical, no-nonsense tools that power change in how we care for ourselves and respond to those around us. This book is a critical tool of the trauma trade for pastors, teachers, counselors, and other leaders along the Way of Jesus.
You won't want to put it down. You can't put it down. It's hope for her; it's hope for us.
Leigh's biblical insight and wisdom are on target, offering practical, no-nonsense tools that power change in how we care for ourselves and respond to those around us. This book is a critical tool of the trauma trade for pastors, teachers, counselors, and other leaders along the Way of Jesus.
You won't want to put it down. You can't put it down. It's hope for her; it's hope for us.
December 16, 2022
"She Seems So Normal" by Leigh Mackenzie deals with healing from biblical trauma. If sexual abuse is a trigger for you, you may want to skip this book. Otherwise, I just want you to be aware of this fact before you start reading. With biblical truths, personal accounts, Scriptural references, and more, this book conveys a powerful message.
Her husband, children, church, and friends provide an excellent support system. She discusses the techniques she used to deal with the trauma. This book does an excellent job showing the ways trauma can rear its ugly head through normal day-to-day activities. She also illustrates the power of God to bring forgiveness and to provide the peace that passes all understanding.
So if you have suffered trauma or know someone who has, check out this book for yourself. I definitely recommend it because of its powerful biblical message of God's love and power to allow us to forgive those who "sin against us."
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Her husband, children, church, and friends provide an excellent support system. She discusses the techniques she used to deal with the trauma. This book does an excellent job showing the ways trauma can rear its ugly head through normal day-to-day activities. She also illustrates the power of God to bring forgiveness and to provide the peace that passes all understanding.
So if you have suffered trauma or know someone who has, check out this book for yourself. I definitely recommend it because of its powerful biblical message of God's love and power to allow us to forgive those who "sin against us."
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
December 10, 2022
She Seems So Normal: Shatter the Plastic Princess, Embrace Authentic Faith is one of those books that really spoke to me. I could relate so much to the author. I understood her trauma and what she went through in her life. I admired her bravery and courage to tell her story. I was inspired by how she was able to move forward and how her faith was able to help her heal.
I am giving She Seems So Normal: Shatter the Plastic Princess, Embrace Authentic Faith five stars. I highly recommend it for readers who have suffered through painful events in their lives, need inspiration and looking for ways to find themselves. They will get so much by reading this book.
I received a paperback copy of She Seems So Normal: Shatter the Plastic Princess, Embrace Authentic Faith from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving She Seems So Normal: Shatter the Plastic Princess, Embrace Authentic Faith five stars. I highly recommend it for readers who have suffered through painful events in their lives, need inspiration and looking for ways to find themselves. They will get so much by reading this book.
I received a paperback copy of She Seems So Normal: Shatter the Plastic Princess, Embrace Authentic Faith from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
November 17, 2022
Leigh’s God-given intellect and determination, seasoned and prepared by her deep faith and the support of family and friends, have courageously and painfully created a resource and perhaps even voice, for those with similar past or current sexual abuse experiences. As she walks the reader through her personal “shadow of death valleys”, intentionally weaving the power, hope and truth of Holy Scripture throughout, a clear picture of the depth and magnitude of her healing journey and all she is overcoming is a powerful testimony to the redeeming love and steadfast faithfulness of God. Confident her story has the power to encourage the breaking of generational chains and bring freedom and light into the darkest places, because it is a story of God’s redemption through His Son Jesus Christ. Many helpful resources throughout the book.
December 12, 2022
She Seems So Normal is written by Leigh Mackenzie. This book is so well written and the author shares her struggles and her triumphs. I also have a past where some pretty bad things happened to me - which I am so thankful that God has healed me from. The author shares enough of her story without going into details, and you can understand how deep her hurt was.
I love that the author points those who have been in similar situations right to Jesus. Her writing is like talking to a friend, and not overly preaching like. This is a good book for anyone who has experienced childhood abuse and trauma.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this boo - all thoughts are my own.
I love that the author points those who have been in similar situations right to Jesus. Her writing is like talking to a friend, and not overly preaching like. This is a good book for anyone who has experienced childhood abuse and trauma.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this boo - all thoughts are my own.
November 18, 2022
Leigh’s vulnerability about her trauma-filled past is filled with the truths I needed to hear. She presents hope for the future while not minimizing hurts from the past; this book shares so vividly what it can look like to love Jesus AND need therapy. Trauma, PTSD, grooming, exploitation - Leigh is honest about what that looked like in her life, and what healing REALLY looks like - not just the before-and-after quick peeks. With QR codes to additional resources, and links to relevant podcast episodes, this book is truly a gift for anyone who has experienced trauma or is walking alongside another who has experienced trauma.
November 27, 2022
This book is perfect for every person to read. The author shares her life experiences with trauma. While not every person has been through what she has been through, on some level, every person has been through some kind of traumatic experience, or you will meet a person who has. The author shares what she's been through and the tools that have helped her. The number one tool is God at the center. This book has been inspiring and has educated me in so many ways on myself and how I can help be there for a person who has been through trauma. The author has given me tools on loving others and how to help them find the help they truly need. First, with Jesus because He brings the others along the way to not only experience healing, but how to live life day to day when triggers may arrise. I highly recommend this book to any person, no matter what their walk in life may look like. The Redeemer is evident through the author's journey.
At the end of every chapter, the author has given a list of Scriptures to look up as well as a QR code that links resources as well as her Podcast.
At the end of every chapter, the author has given a list of Scriptures to look up as well as a QR code that links resources as well as her Podcast.
December 26, 2022
This was a book that I really didn’t want to read. Because, I too have been sexually assaulted twice. I am glad I read this book and am so glad that the author didn’t go into graphic details. I too have felt like the author that I wasn’t good enough and at certain times I still feel that I am not good. This is a honest look at the author’s life experiences and how she is overcoming them. I appreciate that she includes lots of spiritual references for the reader to look up. I plan on re-reading this book again in the future and really study the verses that she has included.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own
November 13, 2022
I love Leigh’s transparency in sharing her story. This is such a needed message for the church. I think that so often the broken come into the church thinking they need to fit the perfect image, and yet we all need healing in Christ which can only be done through vulnerability, and authenticity. For anyone who has experienced sexual trauma, or who has sat through church trying to act like the perfect Christian while trying to hide the shame and pain of your past this is for you.
Thank you Leigh for sharing your story!
Thank you Leigh for sharing your story!
November 16, 2022
She Seems So Normal by Leigh Mackenzie is an honest, transparent, amazingly raw book of a woman who shares her testimony of a life of trauma, a journey of healing, and the power of what God can do. It's a book of hope, encouragement and you won't regret reading this book. Leigh let's you in with her whole heart.
December 6, 2022
Leigh shares her own personal traumas with you and how they were causing chaos for her and then she shares how she was able to get her life back by embracing her faith and applying practical solutions from her counselors. This book is life giving. Find the real you by breaking through the plastic.
November 27, 2022
This book is amazing and a true look at trauma and the life battles with it. It is raw and real and everyone can benefit from reading it.
November 19, 2023
I used to go to church with Leigh. Her story is powerfully presented in such a raw, real way. Her healing journey leads everything back to God. This is emotional but necessary.
December 8, 2022
Leigh’s story is gritty and honest, heart wrenching and healing. She tackles deep issues of abuse with courage and faith in the One who won't let her go. She lets the reader walk with her through the valley of the shadow of death; avoiding the graphic details but with vibrant clarity about her journey. If you’ve suffered trauma at the hands of another and are looking for a way to heal, Leigh’s story will shed light to the path as you walk your own journey out. I’m so thankful to this warrior woman for fighting the battle and writing it down with such skill and grace. There is hope and it's described here in all its flaming glory!
December 30, 2023
I’ve known Leigh and Chris for many years. I had no idea the immense trauma she went thru. She put on quite a brave face. I’m in awe of her strength to put this out there and hope it will help others.
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