An involving story about the blind faith of a community manipulated
By Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA)
Award-winning writer Janet Clark presents Blind Faith, a novel about the Roman Catholic clergy sexual abuse scandal as experienced through the eyes of young Jack O'Donnell and his family during the late 60s and early 70s. A sincerely told tale of the severe physical and emotional pain caused by the breech of trust, as well as the sinister cover up that the church hierarchy engaged in. An involving story about the blind faith of a community manipulated, children betrayed, and the struggle to cope with hopelessly tangled emotions. Highly recommended.
Blind Faith leads the reader through one survivor's journey from shattered innocence to ascendence over the cycle of horror which has altered the course of his life forever. The author's depiction of the culture which allows the structure of silence to blind us from seeing the unthinkable sheds light on our obligation to remain ever vigilent in protecting our children from those who prey on trust. This important book reveals the tapestry of terror, shame, rage, and grief that survivors must transcend in order to heal.
This book tells the story of three separate victims: one who is on the road to healing, one whose agony has led to isolation, drugs and crime, and a third who continues to perpetrate the horror. Recognize that each of these men could represent someone you know. Only through each of us consciously raising our awareness will we fulfill our obligation to be the change we want to see in the world.
Kathleen L. Estlund, LMHC Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Janet Clark is passionate about giving a voice to those who suffer the terrorism of sexual assault. This book comes forth out of her desire to increase awareness, validate victims' pain, and encourage healing.
Arlene M. McColley Nicola, MSW, LISW Licensed Independent Social Worker
This is a book I could not put down. I gained insight about the clergy sexual abuse scandal, how it happened, and how we all can learn to heal from it.
A Must Read for those who ask themselves:
'How did this clergy sex abuse happen?'
The answer will improve the chances that it does not happen again.
Peggy Murphy
A tale that offers hope,
By Dr. R. L. Ronconi
In Blind Faith, Janet Clark uncovers the secretive, frightening, abhorrent, and unfortunate world of a sexually abused child. It is a melancholy story of broken trusts, beliefs, and loyalties, and yet, is inspirational seeing how someone can find the strength to fight back against the powerful, rise like a Phoenix, and overcome seemingly insurmountable circumstances.
Janet Clark has written a compassionate, enlightening, frustrating, believable, true to life novel…
Robert Charles Wolf
A "Recommended Read" of the Online Review of Books and Current Affairs... "Emotionally charged..."