Review of Unbroken

Post by **Leslie coccia** » 17 May 2025, 14:48

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Unbroken" by DeAnne Harmon.]

4 out of 5 stars

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"Unbroken: When Darkness Becomes Light" by DeAnne Harmon is an inspiring work of nonfiction. The author delves into her story of trauma and transformation that took root in childhood abuse. In the book, Harmon recounts the experience of growing up in a deeply religious household and the excruciating way it shaped all of childhood, even while living with the abuser. Readers learn how the trauma permeated every aspect of Harmon's life as an adult, and how a jail sentence unexpectedly became a catalyst for healing.

"Unbroken: When Darkness Becomes Light" is a deeply moving story. I give it a rating of four out of five stars for several reasons. The author is incredibly vulnerable, especially when recounting details about the abuser. It's almost like being in the thick of the turmoil, as passages explain what it was like trying to juxtapose his good Christian persona with his horrible actions. The journey to heal from the trauma as an adult is very well-written, with waves of insight on each page. There are many passages that will be relatable to readers, such as the details about the physical and emotional effects of pain. Hunched up shoulders, anxiety, and putting on an act to appear like everything is fine are some of the aspects of Harmon's story and are so common nowadays. The author addresses the role of social media, and how it was easy to come across as a self-help guru who had it all together, even while spiraling. It is a poignant part of the book that gives common ground, as social media is pervasive but yet sometimes so contrived. The chapters about a pivotal time in jail are dark but full of hope. It is important to share that certain sections could be rough to get through all at once. The only reason the rating is less than five stars is because of a couple of editing errors. They don't distract from Harmon's amazing story.

"Unbroken: When Darkness Becomes Light" will help readers through their own struggles. It will appeal to anyone wanting a story of transformation.

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Unbroken
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Mirel Linda · Post by **Mirel Linda** » 19 May 2025, 01:18

“Unbroken: When Darkness Becomes Light” by DeAnne Harmon is a poignant memoir about overcoming childhood abuse and finding healing. Harmon bravely recounts her traumatic upbringing in a strict religious home and the lasting effects on her adult life. The book insightfully explores trauma, faith, and the pressures of social media, with hope emerging from her time in prison.

Minor editing issues do not detract from its powerful message. This memoir is highly recommended for readers seeking an honest story of resilience and transformation.

Martinha · Post by **Martinha** » 19 May 2025, 13:12

Because of your beautiful review, I became interested in reading this story of transformation.

André Ribeiro Moes · Post by **André Ribeiro Moes** » 22 May 2025, 09:25

It's incredible how people can go through horrible situations and still free themselves from the traumas they suffered in their lives.
Regardless of the environment in which we live, there is always someone with the capacity to do harm and cause us pain and suffering.
Being able to overcome all the adversities and harm of bad moments that occur mainly in childhood is a demonstration of a great power of overcoming and perseverance throughout life.
No one should go through something so disastrous, but it is very positive to be able to write about it, showing yourself in such a human way and being able to inspire and help other people with your story.

Hills Christopher Albert · Post by **Hills Christopher Albert** » 24 May 2025, 10:58

This review really highlights the raw honesty and courage in DeAnne Harmon's story. It sounds like a powerful memoir that doesn't shy away from the hard truths but also offers hope and healing. I appreciate the mention of relatable struggles like anxiety and the pressure to appear perfect on social media—it makes the story feel very real and relevant.

Gerry Steen · Post by **Gerry Steen** » 28 May 2025, 15:37

Stories like this need to be told. The abused need to be heard and to see that they are not alone. The abused must take back their lives and be assertive. DeAnne Harmon is doing that. I Congratulate Harmon for having the courage to share. Thank you for the nice review.

Christy Todd Peek · Post by **Christy Todd Peek** » 07 Jun 2025, 14:16

this one sounds intense but so powerful. It takes serious courage to not only survive something like that but to turn it into something that can actually help other people. I love that she was honest about the pain and didn’t sugarcoat anything. That part about looking like a self-help guru online while actually falling apart—that hit. I think a lot of people will relate to that. Definitely adding this to my list.