We Are the Evidence: A Handbook for Finding Your Way After Sexual Assault

by Cheyenne Wilson

A necessary, reassuring guide for all sexual assault survivors in need of immediate emotional and legal support post assault, and in the months and years after.

We are the Evidence is the first comprehensive resource for survivors of sexual assault. Written with conviction and compassion by Cheyenne Wilson, a registered nurse and survivor of sexual  assault, this handbook contains everything victims and advocates need to know to navigate the tumultuous times that follow an assault. Within, there's advice
Throughout, you'll find exercises, opportunities to rest, and invaluable guidance from experts like attorneys, detectives and therapists. Voices from other sexual assault survivors also lend their support. 
 
Meant to to be easily accessible, everything is organized for you to go right to the topic you most need guidance for, no matter where you are on your healing journey. You deserve to be heard, believed, and supported. 

Genres: Nonfiction

320 pages, Paperback

Published June 11, 2024

Reviews

[Katlyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was thorough and insightful. I would highly recommend it to both victim-survivors and those who support them. It's a valuable resource for understanding and navigating the complexities of sexual assault response & recovery.

[Lily Pavelich · Rating 5 out of 5]

cheyenne wilson found a gap in the literature and filled it. will be referencing & recommending this book to all victims/survivors i work with in the ER

[Danielle O'Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

We Are the Evidence by Cheyenne Wilson is nothing short of a lifeline for survivors of sexual assault. As someone who understands the profound and complex pain that comes with this kind of trauma, I found this book to be a beacon of hope, strength, and validation. Cheyenne Wilson has created a guide that is not just practical, but deeply compassionate and empowering.

This book is impactful because it doesn’t just acknowledge the pain—it shows you how to navigate it. From immediate steps to take after an assault to long-term healing strategies, it equips survivors with the knowledge they need to reclaim their power.

The actionable advice is invaluable, but the emotional support this book offers is what sets it apart. Cheyenne Wilson speaks to survivors in a way that feels personal, like a trusted friend who has walked this path and is now reaching back to guide you forward. It’s clear she poured her heart and soul into making this a resource that survivors can rely on, no matter where they are in their journey.

This book is more than a guide—it’s a lifeline for those struggling to make sense of their experiences and take steps toward healing. If you or someone you know has been impacted by sexual assault, We Are the Evidence is an essential read. It will remind you of your strength, validate your emotions, and equip you with the tools to move forward. Cheyenne Wilson’s work is a gift to survivors everywhere.

[Bree Theising · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence this book is for you/them. This self-paced handbook guides those who’ve experienced sexual violence in a trauma-informed way through their healing journey. This books gives insight in to the medical process, Title IX, the criminal justice process, therapy, mental health, and so much more. Cheyenne shares her story and experiences to reinforce that victims/survivors are not alone in their experiences-there are allies and supports available for you/them.

This book is also highly recommended for those who advocate for sexual violence victims/survivors (especially, if you’re newer to the field) as a way that you can support them throughout their journey and explain the process.

“We are the evidence and we can advocate for change, support other survivors, and educate others. Together, we can make the world a better, safer place.” Cheyenne Wilson

This book is released on June 11th, 2024. How did I read it already you ask?! Well, I’ve had the privilege of working as an expert contributor (Bree Theising-Stair) with the author, Cheyenne Wilson and we received advance copies.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cheyenne has crafted an incredibly comprehensive and empathetic resource for survivors, striking an important balance between encouraging readers to take their healing journey at their own pace while also making sure they’re fully educated about ALL their options. The healing journey is obviously not a one-size-fits-all process, and she expertly breaks down the many, many options into digestible and accessible steps. I had the privilege of contributing to this book, and couldn’t be more honored to be in such good company. Truly can’t recommend this handbook enough!

[Shannon Nieland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though my experiences with sexual trauma are all in the distant past, I learned so much about myself reading this book. I’m grateful there is a resource like this for any person who’s experienced sexual assault, and as a mother I think it will better enable me to be the knowledgeable, strong, safe person I wish I had in my life as a child victim. Cheyenne is compassionate, insightful, and informative, and the various experts and survivor testimonies offer the perfect balance of vital information as well as empathy and hope.

[Shari Botwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a survivor of sexual violence, you need to read this book. It is affirming, informative, and so important for anyone who has experienced this type of trauma. "We Are the Evidence," is filled with insight and information. I know I will be sharing this book with clients and colleagues!
Shari Botwin, LCSW and author of "Stolen Childhoods," and "Thriving After Trauma."

[Nic Cabage · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the book as an advocate to see if it was something I could recommend to survivors and I absolutely will. Overall, it’s a well written and thoughtful book that helps guide survivors in a trauma focused way. There are a few things I wish were slightly different, but given it’s a book for people across the country, it’s very well done.

[Ash Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not an easy read but it is an essential guidebook. The language balances between clinical and compassionate and in it's way, it's important to have both that distance and that closeness to the subject matter.

If you are a survivor of SA or know someone who is, this is an essential piece of guidance.

[Kelsey Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an amazing and empowering book! I highly recommend for anyone post sexual assault, whether it’s fresh or old. I gained so much from this book. I felt like I was being wrapped in a warm blanket while reading, feeling as if people finally understand what I’ve gone through. I would also recommend this book to anyone who has a loved one who has experienced a sexual assault.

[Alexis Stankewitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Thank you Grand Centeral Publishing for giving me a copy of "We Are The Evidence" in exchange for an honest review*

This was emotional read but something very much needed for SA survivors. I feel like a copy of this book should be given to every survivior.

[anaya joshi · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a survivor of sexual assault/violence, this is an absolute must-read! This was recommended by my therapist and it crafts the process of what to do from the initial incident all the way to the end of trial should you choose to follow that path. I had been going back and forth on what I wanted to do personally, and reading about other survivor's experiences as well as the author's, really allowed me to see all the scenarios play out as well as everything to expect. This book is essential also for friends and family of the victims as it teaches the importance of allowing the survivor to grow. I feel a lot better about my decisions and this book offers constant reassurance and empowering testimonies to show survivors that they are not alone. I have had this book as my clutch over the past couple of months and it truly is something that I will come back to and recommend!

[Iris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read on my psychologist’s recommendation. A (small) part of the book is more relevant to the USA, but it’s a very insightful and empowering book about sexual assault and how to cope with it.