LaTasha "Tacha B." Braxton

I enjoy exploring family history as I have a better sense of the trials and tribulations my ancestors went through and that helps explain how I came to be.

As I began this book, I felt there was much opportunity for things to be extraordinary for this family, but, deceit, addictions, betrayal, abuse caused the destruction of lives, and all the while the children witnessed their parent's relationship deteriorating.

I felt such empathy towards the author and her sister as they watched things spiral out of control. I’m actually amazed at how self-aware Braxton is considering the overwhelming sense of pain and loss she must have felt. Instead, she shows us that she dealt with this hardship realizing it was only temporary, and she shielded herself with His word, leaping out in faith.

This well-written autobiography teaches all that if there is ever a dark time, a moment of doubt or confusion, or difficult circumstance that you are going through - that negative familial patterns do not have to persist, they can be temporary. You can step out and make a change. Dark Chains can be broken.

I received a copy of the book from the author for an honest review.… (mehr)

{Obligatory statement: I received this complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. What follows is entirely my own opinion.}

Devastating. That's what trauma from abuse and neglect is: devastating. Braxton's narrative of her life filled with emotional and physical neglect and abuse is heart-wrenching. You want to reach into the pages and pull out that sad, lonely girl and just hug her.

Her descriptions of the generational abuse, addictions, and mental health issues that exists within those around her are a personification of the Adverse Childhood Experiences study (learn more about ACEs at https://acestoohigh.com/aces-101/). Unfortunately, stories like this are far too common. Braxton has, perhaps unknowingly, given voice to the suffering of millions of children who are abused and neglected every year.

However, there is hope to overcome the overwhelming statistics. This account shows how there is a chance to rise above and learn from the mistakes of others. It is possible to break the cycle and discover true, unconditional love; love from others, as well as self-love.

Braxton found her strength in God. While I am not a religious individual myself, I was glad that she was able to discover her path in life through this source. Although, I felt like she should have taken more credit for her accomplishments and not put the commendation to God. It takes a lot of strength, courage, and resilience to press forward and succeed as she did. Braxton is a strong, courageous woman.

Overall, this book pained me a lot as it reminded me of my own and others' stories, but it is a topic that is so often swept under the rug. Thank you LaTasha "Tacha B." Braxton for using your voice.… (mehr)