Broken Places: A Memoir of Abuse

Memoir of Abuse

by Rachel Thompson

Award-winning author Rachel Thompson courageously confronts the topics of sexual abuse and suicide, love and healing, in her second nonfiction book of prose: Broken Places. The sequel to Rachel's first nonfiction book, Broken Pieces, Rachel bares her soul in essays, poems and prose, addressing life's most difficult topics with honesty. As you follow one woman's journey through the dark and into the light, you will find yourself forever changed. Rachel's first book in this series, Broken Pieces, has been a #1 best seller on Amazon (eBooks) on Women's Poetry and Abuse. Please note: this book discusses serious topics, and is intended for mature audiences only.

Genres: Nonfiction, Poetry, Biography, Abuse, Memoir

124 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 13, 2015

About the author

Rachel Thompson is the author of the award-winning, bestselling Broken Places (one of IndieReader’s “Best of 2015” top books and 2015 Honorable Mention Winner in both the Los Angeles and the San Francisco Book Festivals), and the bestselling, multi-award-winning Broken Pieces, as well as two additional humor books, A Walk In The Snark and Mancode: Exposed. She recently released her first business book, the BadRedhead Media 30-Day Book Marketing Challenge, to stellar reviews. She is thrilled to be included in Feminine Collective’s two anthologies, Love Notes From Humanity: The Lust, Love & Loss Collection and Raw and Unfiltered Vol 1: Selected Essays and Poems on Relationships with Self and Others.
About: Business and Writing

She owns BadRedhead Media, creating effective social media and book marketing campaigns for authors. Her articles appear regularly in The Huffington Post, Feminine Collective, IndieReader.com, The Verbs on Medium, Vocal Media, Mogul.com, and several other publications. Connect with Rachel at RachelintheOC.com or BadRedheadMedia.com.

Not just an advocate for sexual abuse survivors, Rachel is the creator and founder of the hashtag phenomenon #MondayBlogs and the live weekly Twitter chats, #SexAbuseChat, co-hosted with certified therapist/survivor, Bobbi Parish (Tuesdays, 6 pm PST/9pm EST), and #BookMarketingChat, co-hosted with author assistant Melissa Flickinger (Wednesdays, 6 pm PST/9pm EST). She hates walks in the rain, running out of coffee, and coconut. She lives in California with her family.

Reviews

[Dennis Sharpe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly A Rare Find!

When I finished reading Rachel Thompson's latest, Broken Places, I was quietly stunned. I thought about it... read it again... and then contemplated. I was moved.

I think I went into the reading with expectations of almost a sequel (if you will) of her last book Broken Pieces. What I read was that, to a degree... but it was so much more. Let me repeat that, because it matters... so much more!

You should read this. Not 'you should read this if..'. You... yes, you. You should read this.

If you have read Broken Pieces (you're really only hurting yourself if you haven't) then it's worth noting that this book is a different but no less potent animal. Broken Pieces punches you in the face with raw force, propelling you across the room, where this work moves across you with a power that transports you... carries you... relocates you... in a way that most writing can't hope to achieve. Truly a rare find.

All in all? Most definitely worth the read! Trust me. The writing is simply amazing, showing a level of skill and mastery of language that is sure to impress, but more so a grasp of what is felt - at once universally and personally.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have had the opportunity to read both, Broken Pieces and Broken Places, by abuse survivor, Rachel Thompson. Ms. Thompson delivers poignant, powerful and poetic essays on the impact of sexual abuse, in many forms, on the psyche of a young woman.

In both, Ms. Thompson steps out of her normal style of humorous, sarcastic essays that she is known for to dig deep into her soul and write about painful occurrences in her life and how they continue to affect her. As someone who has known Ms. Thompson for several years in a professional setting, I have always been amazed by her aura. Broken Pieces and Broken Places give readers the insight behind this aura.

Broken Places takes it one step further. Much more raw than its predecessor, Broken Pieces, written in a poetic format, allows a deeper reader experience.

As a former counselor and addiction counselor, these books stood out to me as an excellent tool for utilization for clients undergoing the process of discovery of sexual abuse in a therapeutic setting to assist them in moving from victim to survivor. I have recommended this book to several counselors to use in with clients in a therapeutic context.

**Please note that these books can be triggers for individuals who have undiagnosed traumatic events in the area of sexual abuse.

[Tee loves Kyle Jacobson · Rating 5 out of 5]

First I have to say that this book is not for the faint of hearts. It is raw and deals with a lot of issues such as depression, suicide, sexual abuse and other things.

Rachel has taken something raw and made it a beautiful story of how one girl has survived a dark path to come into the light and heal. In poem and essay style Rachel weaves a dark past and things that happened to a girl that should not have happened and the path to healing.

This is a must read for anyone who has ever been abused sexually or thought about suicide. This is an amazing true journey of taking something bad in life and turning it into something positive and inspirational.

[Justin Bog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Somehow more urgent and immediate than Broken Pieces, the writing (the language, the poetry) is better, and I loved Rachel Thompson's earlier book. Hitting the same emotional valley, trying to understand, failing, and succeeding, walking the walk, Thompson pulls dark blankets off of her past and reveals the ugliness of human nature. Her journey is startling, harrowing, and sad. Surviving and leaving a record for others to discover is brave. If you are a survivor of abuse, this book may become a touchstone.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a hard read for me. It hit so close to home in areas that I thought I'd put way behind me. Now I know where the nightmares come from....

Rachel Thompson took on a task that touches the heart in ways I've never read before. This book is extremely well written and told with such grace and feeling that you turn the pages and reach the end before you expect it. You can feel a little girls pain and fear. The poetry was beautiful and I don't usually read books with poetry in them. This one was pure art from beginning to end.

How do you deal with a neighbor that you have to face every single day of your childhood after he has touched you inappropriately. When it seems everyone is watching every move you make. After you grow up the things that happen are still with you no matter how hard you try to hide it. The nightmares that wake you up in a cold sweat. Knowing you didn't deserve what happened but still blaming yourself in so many ways.

I loved this book even though it made me cry for a childhood lost. It made me remember things that I had chosen to forget. Whether it's a neighbor, a family member or date rape or all three, you are not to blame. You are just an innocent child who had no control over the things that happen to you. You're suppose to be carefree, happy and enjoy your life. You are suppose to be protected. Sometimes the very ones who are suppose to protect us are abusers though. Sometimes they are not there for YOU and they do blame YOU when it's them that should be taking care of your pains and fears.

Anyone who has ever been abused or molested or even if it has never happened to you, you should read this book and the first one: Broken Pieces. Both are great books and in so many ways help you understand that you are innocent or not to look down on anyone who has been hurt in such a terrible way.

Rachel Thompson has written a heartfelt story that I could not stop reading even when I thought I could not read another word. It is such a touching story. Thank you for writing this. It helped!!!

[Cardoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is simply amazing that the author, Rachel Thompson, has used her past experience to help others. Broken Places is not a continuation from Broken Pieces but reading both books will provide you with lessons on dealing with the past and letting go of the pain. Both books are compilation of the author's feelings and opinions in the form of poetry or prose and eventually functions as a "manual" on your journey to healing. People pleasing, shame, guilt, anger, addiction and inability to move on become invisible obstacles in our own paths.

Broken Places helps the reader to identify these obstacles and then deal with them. That's a key lesson in both of Rachel Thompson's books. You cannot move on without first dealing with the obstacles in your life. I applaud the author for using her words to reach out to the broken hearts and minds around her. Abuse survivors will be able to relate and appreciate this book without the sentiment that they are being judged.

*****I received a free book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Ben Ditmars · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some poets are born, but most are made. I believe Rachel Thompson possesses an inner-strength transcending both ideals. Perhaps her poetry would not be possible without her story, but that is immaterial. She was born and makes a difference. I am not a survivor of sexual abuse, but I feel the intensity of her writing and the strength that it provides. There is courage in the ability to speak that I know others will find because of Broken Places. I better understand the enormity our actions and indifference can cause to victims of abuse. And I find solace in the truth and beauty of her words that touched my soul. If you like great writing or poetry, please give this book your time. It will be well worth it. Two of my favorite passages were:

can a ghost of air and dust
hold me now?

It’s beautiful, this hill we climb
To the quiet, most private silence of our souls

[Jennifer Gilmour · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this after I had read Broken Pieces. It’s something that is close to home in reference to domestic abuse. I continued on to this in the aid to educate myself further. Rachel has put her scars onto paper here, I found this book harder to read then her previous in the series. It took me by surprise and I am not sure if this is because I am not familiar with this as an experience. I have to say I commend Rachel for this. Again you can read it in small chunks and it’s not a depressing read at all, thoughts, feelings and memories come into this piece of work.
I believe many would relate to this and I would urge others to read it. It has certainly given me an insight into some of the signs of child abuse and just how constructive the perpetrators are.

[Emy · Rating 3 out of 5]

the subject is heartbreaking, what she went through, the aftermath , are not easy to deal with. And finding words to talk about it is really something !!
why 3 stars? well, I don't know if it's "correct" to say I liked "the book" : abuse,scars, trauma and mental damage are not to be liked ! it left me perplexed and in a paradoxical state : powerful and fragile, glad and sad, it's really hard to explain. I respect her and each single survivor <3
Nonetheless, I had (and have) a problem with repetition, I'd preferred to see a whole chapter well arranged rather than having fragments here and there about the same thing, the same period of time and sometimes with the same words !!!

[Hilary Grossman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Broken Places was such a powerful and beautiful read and Rachel Thompson is so brave and strong for sharing her story so eloquently. Broken Places is one of those books that stays with you way after the last page is written.

If you asked me before I read this book if I would enjoy poetry I would say no. But this book changed my mind. The way that poetry was used to convey messages and feelings was amazing

[Micki Peluso · Rating 5 out of 5]

Broken Places

By

Rachel Thompson

Author Rachel Thompson believes that the ever-present shame of child molestation drastically alters what a child’s life might have become. In her outstanding candid book, she suggests through education, often poignant essays and poems, just how devastating sexual abuse is—particularly to a child. It rips the psyche right down to the soul.

She takes you on a journey through her own life from the time she was eleven years old and bears her ‘shame’ in an effort to help other sufferers. The author pulls no punches, exposing every shard of agony she endured; from guilt, humiliation, rage, hate and a yearning for vengeance. This book is not a ‘tell all’ but a sharing of what she’s learned as she changed from victim to survivor. One essay on forgiveness is an especially interesting outlook.

Broken Places is not only a book for survivors but also for those who share their lives, helping them to more fully understand the depth of pain and myriad physical symptoms and emotions borne daily by their loved ones. Yet even vigilant adults having been scarred sexually and emotionally themselves can miss what’s happening to their children and loved ones. I missed it and knew what to watch for. Children will hide their shame because they believe it’s their fault. And often continue hiding throughout their lives—lives that might have turned out so differently.

Each of the author’s essays address one issue and teaches the reader how to overcome the past horrors of their lives. There are some graphic scenes which may be upsetting but this well-written book by an author with excellent writing skills overcomes that by offering coping methods for the trauma of child molestation.

Rachel Thompson brings readers into her own life wholly. She explains the crippling and strange symptoms that may happen years later to a survivor. Personally, I was amazed and shocked by incidents I thought I’d ‘let go.’ This is definitely a book that readers will refer to often. It’s a rare book that is capable of explaining so aptly, yet with fortitude and compassion, the lonely nightmare of childhood sexual abuse. This one of them.

Those enjoying this book on so many diverse levels will want to check out Author Rachel Thompson’s award winning first ‘broken’ book, ‘Broken Pieces’ as well as her humorous books; ‘A Walk in the Snark,’ and her best selling, ‘Mancode.’



Micki Peluso; author of . . . And the Whippoorwill Sang

[M.J. Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Broken Places” is an artistic fusion of poems, essays, prose and joined ponderings about the “fault lines that tremor and quake …aftershocks” when the “icy fingers “from the sudden stranglehold of childhood memories hover through a lifetime of dealing with abuse. Rachel Thompson quotes Einstein’s observation that the separation of past, present, and future are illusion and says this is why the mind throws flashbacks at us as we move back and forth between points of childhood trauma and ordinary thought. Rachel points out that the mind and nervous system have no concept of time as they sling past terrors into the present and our bodies respond as if currently under attack. Such are the slings and arrows of PTSD. Shame hides under behavior designed to free us even for a moment from the subconscious riptide. Hypervigilance, even in sleep is common for survivors who often suffer night terrors that seem impossible to tame
In poems like china tea cups thin to the point of transparency, Rachel leads the reader to emotionally shattering places. New delicately decorated cups appear with each poem as the story of Rachel’s child abuse unfolds. This well-written book reminds me of a garment embroidered with silk thread that gives slick texture and body to the story. The shards pile up as the tale of a shredded soul develops. Rachel teases the reader as she moves around the edges of her subject matter, arousing curiosity that she satisfies. The broken places seek each other and form in a healthier way as Rachel does repair work on her psyche.
The brutalities of sexual assault are dealt with head on and with a deceptively delicate touch that will ambush the reader later with full meaning. Rachel, the weaver of garments of healing works at her loom so the reader can receive a personal cloak of restoration.
“Broken Pieces” includes a valuable and possibly lifesaving array of organizations to help survivors.

[Drewseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Warning: Reading "Broken Pieces" will not prepare you for "Broken Places", but let me be clear: "Broken Pieces" is an amazing work of art, and "Broken Places" is even better. If you care for someone who has been sexually abused, you need to read this book. If you are someone who has experienced sexual abuse, you should read this book. Just know that it will be extremely painful but also wrap you in a warm, loving hug.

Where "Broken Pieces" was sometimes shy and esoteric with some of the more painful topics, Rachel Thompson is not so protective with "Broken Places", especially with herself. This book should've taken me less than two hours to read, but it took me two days. I had to stop and re-read passages and even entire pieces. I had to take breaks because the pages were filled with so much power.

Our details are so very different, but our emotional truth is exactly the same. She told that truth so exquisitely. It terrified me to read that truth and comforted me to share it with someone. I wanted Rachel to shut up and to scream even louder. I found myself hating her and loving her and feeling all these things all at once. "Broken Places" tore me apart and put me back together.

Like Rachel Thompson, I refuse to hide from triggers. They are all around me anyway, and to deny them would be to deny myself and my right not to be ashamed for things that are not my fault. Rachel Thompson refuses to live in that shame, and she's helping me to do the same.

[Dennis Sharpe · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I finished reading Rachel Thompson’s latest, Broken Places, I was quietly stunned. I thought about it... read it again... and then contemplated. I was moved.

I think I went into the reading with expectations of almost a sequel (if you will) of her last book Broken Pieces. What I read was that, to a degree... but it was so much more. Let me repeat that, because it matters... so much more!

You should read this. Not 'you should read this if..'. You... yes, you. You should read this.

If you have read Broken Pieces (you're really only hurting yourself if you haven't) then it's worth noting that this book is a different but no less potent animal. Broken Pieces punches you in the face with raw force, propelling you across the room, where this work moves across you with a power that transports you... carries you... relocates you... in a way that most writing can't hope to achieve. Truly a rare find.

All in all? Most definitely worth the read! Trust me. The writing is simply amazing, showing a level of skill and mastery of language that is sure to impress, but more so a grasp of what is felt - at once universally and personally.

[allie burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been following Thompson's writing through blogs and social media for years, but nothing could have prepared me for the stunning voice this author has.

I'm not much of a poetry reader. Though my favorite genre is Literary, I'm definitely one of those numbskulls that just doesn't get it. I want to read a story, not words.

Thompson brings a rare talent, a gift, to tell a gorgeous story with lines of poetry each woven together with a dark ribbon with gold hope sparkling off its edges. Broken Places produces some of the most beautiful writing I have ever, ever seen. Her style cuts into your heart with a knife that is not only sharpened but ragged, its tip on fire. If you can get past the triggers of sexual abuse, it will swallow you with the brutal truth it bleeds all over the page. It takes a grand ability to write short non-fiction with emotional potency and raw effect like this, but Thompson nails it.

I would recommend it to any fan of artistic literature.

**OCH received a copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review.

[Thomas Muriuki · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's not everyday I read memoirs, but this one is special in some way. Insightful, honest and pragmatic!
Rachel had gone deep down the emotional construct and given the very raw truth and reality of what Childhood Sexual Abuse really is.
Her straightforward approach interwoven with poetic expression also offers an instrumental didactic hand to a survivor of CSA.
Although suggestive in a personal perspective; the volume of raw emotion and practical challenges and pain are a voice to a person/survivor
in the same or related abuse.
This book is simply an invaluable voice to awaken other survivors and uphold their dignity and live their true self amid the emotional and mental burden that abuse has on a CSA survivor.

At times, I had to pause and process the very raw truth and challenging experience that Rachel draws from her personal life.
It is no doubt a CSA survivor will find this book useful and an endearing voice to give up shame and find the sense of worth in who they are despite the stigma that is associated with CSA.

[Mary Rowen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book...wow. Where to begin? It's simply stunning in its ability to do so many things so well. It chronicles the horrific tragedy of sexual abuse of children, while also giving the reader hope on every page. Much of Broken Places is about the sadness and emptiness that happens after abuse, but parts of it are also a celebration of healthy love and sexuality.

I believe it's an important read for everyone. If you're a survivor yourself--and can handle reading about the topic--it may help you to heal. If you know nothing about childhood sexual abuse, this book will help you understand the pain survivors experience. And if you, like me, have a very close friend who was molested repeatedly as a child, this book may help you to understand your friend better. I found parts of it difficult to read--especially as the mother of a 13 year old girl--but I'm glad I did and recommend it highly.

[Justin Bog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Somehow more urgent and immediate than Broken Pieces, the writing (the language, the poetry) is better, and I loved Rachel Thompson's earlier book. Hitting the same emotional valley, trying to understand, failing, and succeeding, walking the walk, Thompson pulls dark blankets off of her past and reveals the ugliness of human nature. Her journey is harrowing and sad. Surviving and leaving a record for others to discover is brave. If you are a survivor of abuse, this book may become a touchstone.

[Mariyam Hasnain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review follows shortly!

[Casey Sheridan · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always, Rachel's work is powerful, her words filled with so much emotion, her strength always there.

As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, reading Rachel's words was difficult. They not only conjured up the shadows of my memories, but they made me ache for the little girl that was once Rachel.

I want to quote a paragraph from Broken Places that struck me and resonates deeply with my own experience with abuse, something I still struggle with.

"What did I learn from my abuse? Not to trust. That I was alone, truly alone. That nobody would really ever protect me but me. That words carry meaning, but actions mean more. I held tight to the belief that I was alone." (Still true for me)

Reading Rachel's words above made me realize I'm not all that alone. Logically, I know I'm not the only one that deals with trust issues. Many people do whether it's from abuse or something else. But on so many other levels, I feel alone in this.

Inside there's still a little girl wanting someone to protect her, but knowing it will never happen. On the outside is a grown woman that feels the same way.

Thank you, Rachel, for writing your books. From one survivor to another (hug) (hug) (hug) (hug) with a few tears thrown in.

I highly recommend you read Rachel's books, Broken Pieces and Broken Places. Have boxes of tissue handy.

[Badass Lioness · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars! The mix of poetry and prose to reveal how childhood sexual abuse affected her works well in this non-fiction memoir. It is not the traditional memoir with a retelling of the times, but more of an exploration of what happened, how it affected her, her present life, as well as offering some insight on whether to forgive the abuser or not.

This was not an easy read as the topic is heartbreaking to me in its intensity and unfortunate regularity in occurring in our society as well as in many societies around the world. It can be inspirational because she has not only survived, but is showing that she is thriving.

Her story includes her testifying against her abuser and the unexpected fallout afterwards. How do you live after such a traumatic incident that jars your very foundation, ability to trust, and childhood innocence? Life would never be the same; the damage cannot be undone. However, healing is possible; love in many forms is also possible.

She has many "broken places", but has found a way to wholeness, which is a journey not a destination.

Note: I received an ARC, and this is my honest opinion. The jump back and forth between the poetry and prose left me a bit unsure of certain things, things that were hinted at but not explicitly stated. I have not read Broken Pieces, book 1, so that may have caused me to not quite grasp this story as fully as I could.

[Raven Haired Girl]

Rachel Thompson spills her soul through her powerful and affecting essays and poetry of her childhood sexual abuse, as well as of her abuser which happened to be her next door neighbor. Rachel’s horrific event molded and shaped her into the strong woman she is as well as the talented writer she is today. She writes with abandonment, bearing her soul in such a raw manner, her courage admired. Her words are visceral, compelling. As a survivor of abuse her words conveyed what’s been muted in many heart and souls, eclipsed by shame and guilt. A voice for those speechless, or those unable to reveal their pain through words written or spoken.

Rachel imparts the lingering damage the hideous actions a monster leaves behind the moment innocence is stolen. Your life is altered forever as you desperately sift through the wreckage hopeful you’ll be able to mend the many minute fractures. Rachel’s courage, strength and resilience is an example and a beacon of hope for other survivors dealing with the scars of abuse.

Bold writings on a taboo topic plaguing too many children, examining havocs aftermath.

Visit Raven Haired Girl for more reviews & giveaways

[Elite Indie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel Thompson delves into some raw corners in Broken Places, but she also manages to dig up a lot of hope. The mixture of poetry, narrative and prose balance the book nicely, making it not quite memoir, not quite poetry book, and all perfectly balanced. There were some moments in this book that struck a cord deep inside, something only the best poetry can do. "Arousal feels like shame, so she must be broken (Rachel Thompson, Broken Places)." Anyone who has ever had to bear the burden of an abuse knows the power of this phrase. There are many more instances of beauty, desperation and anger in this book. It is literature that's honestly written, unashamed and refreshing. Thompson decides that taboo topics need light the most, and she shines her light on some dark places. There may be triggers for abuse survivors, but perhaps not. Instead, I found solace and comfort in a book that understands my pain and strength. I think others will, too.

[Will Van Stone Jr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another powerful story from Rachel Thompson

Much like Broken Pieces, Places is a fractured collection of personal essays and poetry focused primarily on the childhood sexual abuse she suffered though time is spent on the dissolution of one adult relationship and the hopeful dreams of another.

Be forewarned, there may be parts that are difficult for some to read but those parts are the most important portions; they are what allow us into the author's deepest recesses and allow an understanding of what csa can do to a person.

Though less angry than Pieces, Places brings more sadness; instead of casting hate at the cretin who abused her, she's showing more of the depression that the heinous acts created - that she didn't even realize at the time.

Stop reading this review already and just buy the damn thing.

[Linnea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Broken Places is vulnerable, visceral and powerful. Rachel has exposed herself and shared her most painful places in order to help others heal and reduce the stigma and shame of childhood sexual abuse. Brene Brown states: “Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy... Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.” Rachel has embraced her vulnerabilities and displays her immense courage in this beautiful book. She doesn't share a chronology of her abuse, but rather her writing actually evokes feelings in the reader so that the reader goes on a journey alongside her. Thank you for sharing your light Rachel.

[Stephanie Ortez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have the pleasure to read both Broken Pieces and Broken Places. Rachel's poetry is raw and powerful. While it is hard to discuss or read around the topic of sexual abuse, there is something profoundly consoling about this book. I appreciate the introduction surrounded the mind, body, soul, and dealing with feelings of shame and denial. Rachel's poems not only manage a difficult subject; they also make something new of it. For example: "Survivors create survival mechanisms. Mine is pushing through. I push everything to the side, out of my line of vision, out of my mind and I focus relentlessly on my goal." The grandeur of these lines awakes the fighter within sexual abuse survivors. However alone or alienated we feel about our own abuses, our lives can be changed. Rachel has certainly changed mine.

[Will Van Stone Jr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Much like Broken Pieces, Places is a fractured collection of personal essays and poetry focused primarily on the childhood sexual abuse she suffered though time is spent on the dissolution of one adult relationship and the hopeful dreams of another.

Be forewarned, there may be parts that are difficult for some to read but those parts are the most important portions; they are what allow us into the author's deepest recesses and allow an understanding of what csa can do to a person.

Though less angry than Pieces, Places brings more sadness; instead of casting hate at the cretin who abused her, she's showing more of the depression that the heinous acts created - that she didn't even realize at the time.

Stop reading this review already and just buy the damn thing

[Roe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Broken Places: A Memoir of Abuse by Rachel Thompson is a nonfiction book of poetry, essays, and prose. Her writings, as a survivor of childhood abuse, are very emotional and comes from a depth so deep that the reader cannot but experience these feelings along with her. For example, when the author writes about her "Silence "...a time of innocence and lost...the reader feels the threatening pressure of the abuser's gun that stood for two frightening words, "don't tell". Her silence was a given, her family must be safe. Throughout the book, the author conveys strength and a determination to stay strong while exposing raw emotions to share with her reader. Her words and emotions convey that she is ultimately a survivor.
I was given a complimentary copy for an honest review.

[Stephanie BwaBwa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Broken Places was undoubtedly moving, emotional and telling. Rachel peels back the veil of her life and dramatically reveals what took place in the most raw way possible. Her essays and poems make you feel her journey and torment, whether you are able to relate or not. With brevity, simplicity and depth, Rachel uses her writings to show how she went from victim to survivor and how each and everyday she still walks the path of healing and wholeness. Broken Places is heavy but beautiful. Telling but necessary. A hard truth to face but a truth with the power to cause a revolution for change. As Rachel so eloquently wrote, "Words can draw blood if you're very, very careful." In my case, it drew soul. Thank you for this work Rachel.

[Micky P · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful book filled with wisdom. Rachel Thompson shares her life story with an honest and straightforward approach. I have not experiences anything like she has but her story has touched me deeply. By reading the comments here and on Amazon, I am happy that the books by Rachel Thompson is helping others with similar past experiences to connect and help each other.

Life can be a painful place on some days. It isn't easy to discover your purpose or the reason you are in this world. Rachel Thompson tackles these issues with powerful poetry that encourages you to keep moving forward.

Reviewer Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own.