Scared Selfless: My Journey from Abuse and Madness to Surviving and Thriving

By the time Michelle Stevens was 13, she had been her mother’s boyfriend’s sex slave for 5 years. The memories of him remained a destructive force in her life, tugging at the frayed strings of her mental stability and will to live. She had PTSD, tried to kill herself with pills twice and developed multiple personalities. AND YET (I'm putting this in caps because it's such an exceptional accomplishment) THIS IS A TRULY INSPIRING, AT TIMES HILARIOUS, AND ALWAYS INSIGHTFUL MEMOIR! It took about 15 years, 3 hospitalizations, and multiple suicide attempts to work through Gary’s dark legacy. En route to healing herself, she grew fascinated in how the mind absorbs and deals with trauma, and her fascination to study it further and further until she eventually earns a PhD with a thesis that tells her own story as a case study! Emboldened and empowered by her remarkable journey to healing, she was inspired to help others heal through her private practice as a clinical psychotherapist who specializes in trauma. Now, with SCARED SELFLESS, she hopes to help millions by telling her story in full for the first time—and, by consequence, freeing others from the mental vise in which their tormentors have held them for years. Yes, at first it's raw, but mostly it's fascinating and completely engaging.

In a first for me, I could.not.put.this.book.down until i reached the last page. I read memoirs, autobiographies, true crime - never has any account changed my mind as completely as this story. To this day I still don't understand grown women who proclaim to "love" their abusers. Those who allow their children to be abused are despicable, like the author's mother, who had no reason to fear for her own safety. Prior to reading this book, I also could not understand why children don't "tell." The author has done a wonderful job in explaining why, in a way that no one has done before. I get it now. On behalf of his victims I do feel cheated that the evil called Gary Lundquist never suffered a single day of the pain, humiliation and trauma he inflicted. One can only hope there really is a hell for him and his ilk. I also hope that Michelle knows there are many thousands of us who are proud of her and wish continued happiness and success in her future. Final!y, thank you, Michelle, for opening my eyes.

Scared Selfless is a first person account of child abuse, sex trafficking, child pornography and how one child grew into a woman who not only worked to overcome such horrors, but went on to become a licensed psychologist in order to help others make the transition from fear to love. As a counselor with over 25 years experience working with abuse survivors, I found this book to be a beautiful mix of personal testimony and psychological treatise on the elements necessary to bring healing to such trauma. While I highly recommend this book to both professionals and any who desire a greater understanding of these themes, the reader should be aware that this book contains a great deal of painful, shocking realities which might be triggering to some.

I bought this book after seeing Michelle on Dr. Phil. I am a Mental Health Professional and am always interested in others' lives and their personal journey's; albeit, good, bad or somewhere in between. I am also a multiple abuse survivor. I read this book with an open mind. However, I have to say that I am very skeptical as to the validity of this story for a myriad of reasons. In saying this, I hope that her story, true or not, inspires others who are or have been abused, and that they may seek the help in which they deserve. I know that, after reading this book, if Michelle were to see this review, she would lump me on the list of other Mental Health Professional's, "who don't get it", as her experience was such, that she saw multiple, Therapist's who appeared to be substandard and ineffective (my interpretation of Michelle's words). There may be some truth in this assessment as far as some Therapist's. There's bad, in every profession. However, I would hate for survivors of abuse who read this book, get the wrong impression or message about Mental Health Professional's as a whole, as this may prohibit those abused individual's from getting the help they need. I would read this book with an open mind but with a healthy skepticism. Above all else, I would seek the help of a professional if abuse has been or is a part of your life.

I almost put this book away several times because it was hard to read the detailed abuse she suffered. However, she writes so well and true and helps the reader understand SO much more than her story. I feel more educated on abuse, abusers, mental illness and a lot more. Michelle's story has inspired me to help others that experienced what she did. Although I am not a survivor of child abuse, I hope to make a difference in someone else's life that is.

Best book I've ever read about child abuse. Being a victim of child sexual abuse It feels like the author is saying your feelings that you don't find the words to describe. There was alot of answers I got from reading this book. I read it in 2 days. I recommend it to anyone who suffered from child abuse. It hits home. Very detailing in how the abuse happen it's not for the weak mind.

I highly recommend this book. I know most people don't like reading about child abuse, child trafficking but I feel it's necessary to understand and have empathy since the news outlets often downplay how common and terrible child trafficking is. It's much easier to read news about celebrities and light hearted issues vs something as terrible as child trafficking. However, I learned quite a bit about how child abuse can effect a person's entire life.

It was an awesome book! I loved the fact that even though Michelle went through hell....she overcame and conquered her fears. I suffer from PTSD myself and although it is not from abuse...rather from multiple major car accidents. I learned a great deal. I am still in counseling and making great progress, although I still have my bad days as well. Injuries after injuries...plus 13 surgeries and facing another it has been gruesome at times. I taught many years myself, but started having physical signs from not acknowledging my own pain. It came out in seizures and fainting spells. I will never give up just as you didn't...I am so proud of you and all the people you are helping with DID!!! :-)

Reading about her abuse was very hard to read and comprehend. Her bravery to persevere gives hope. She always had a fire inside to better herself even in her darkest times. I now understand more about DID. I also learned a lot about my own abuse. I didn't survive what she did, but physical abuse I did as a kid. Thank you for being so brace to write this book! I will recommend this book. One day I hope to give Michelle a huge hug! Book tour!!! Lol!!

This is an amazing true story of Michelle Steven's years of brutal sexual abuse by a step father and her mother's failure to protect her. She endured incredible mental illness due to her abuse and years of therapy but finally she began to heal. She went to college, obtained her Ph.D. In clinical psychology and has devoted her life to helping other victims . A.A.

By the time Michelle Stevens was 13, she had been her mother’s boyfriend’s sex slave for 5 years. The memories of him remained a destructive force in her life, tugging at the frayed strings of her mental stability and will to live. She had PTSD, tried to kill herself with pills twice and developed multiple personalities. AND YET (I'm putting this in caps because it's such an exceptional accomplishment) THIS IS A TRULY INSPIRING, AT TIMES HILARIOUS, AND ALWAYS INSIGHTFUL MEMOIR! It took about 15 years, 3 hospitalizations, and multiple suicide attempts to work through Gary’s dark legacy. En route to healing herself, she grew fascinated in how the mind absorbs and deals with trauma, and her fascination to study it further and further until she eventually earns a PhD with a thesis that tells her own story as a case study! Emboldened and empowered by her remarkable journey to healing, she was inspired to help others heal through her private practice as a clinical psychotherapist who specializes in trauma. Now, with SCARED SELFLESS, she hopes to help millions by telling her story in full for the first time—and, by consequence, freeing others from the mental vise in which their tormentors have held them for years. Yes, at first it's raw, but mostly it's fascinating and completely engaging.

In a first for me, I could.not.put.this.book.down until i reached the last page. I read memoirs, autobiographies, true crime - never has any account changed my mind as completely as this story. To this day I still don't understand grown women who proclaim to "love" their abusers. Those who allow their children to be abused are despicable, like the author's mother, who had no reason to fear for her own safety. Prior to reading this book, I also could not understand why children don't "tell." The author has done a wonderful job in explaining why, in a way that no one has done before. I get it now. On behalf of his victims I do feel cheated that the evil called Gary Lundquist never suffered a single day of the pain, humiliation and trauma he inflicted. One can only hope there really is a hell for him and his ilk. I also hope that Michelle knows there are many thousands of us who are proud of her and wish continued happiness and success in her future. Final!y, thank you, Michelle, for opening my eyes.

Scared Selfless is a first person account of child abuse, sex trafficking, child pornography and how one child grew into a woman who not only worked to overcome such horrors, but went on to become a licensed psychologist in order to help others make the transition from fear to love. As a counselor with over 25 years experience working with abuse survivors, I found this book to be a beautiful mix of personal testimony and psychological treatise on the elements necessary to bring healing to such trauma. While I highly recommend this book to both professionals and any who desire a greater understanding of these themes, the reader should be aware that this book contains a great deal of painful, shocking realities which might be triggering to some.

I bought this book after seeing Michelle on Dr. Phil. I am a Mental Health Professional and am always interested in others' lives and their personal journey's; albeit, good, bad or somewhere in between. I am also a multiple abuse survivor. I read this book with an open mind. However, I have to say that I am very skeptical as to the validity of this story for a myriad of reasons. In saying this, I hope that her story, true or not, inspires others who are or have been abused, and that they may seek the help in which they deserve. I know that, after reading this book, if Michelle were to see this review, she would lump me on the list of other Mental Health Professional's, "who don't get it", as her experience was such, that she saw multiple, Therapist's who appeared to be substandard and ineffective (my interpretation of Michelle's words). There may be some truth in this assessment as far as some Therapist's. There's bad, in every profession. However, I would hate for survivors of abuse who read this book, get the wrong impression or message about Mental Health Professional's as a whole, as this may prohibit those abused individual's from getting the help they need. I would read this book with an open mind but with a healthy skepticism. Above all else, I would seek the help of a professional if abuse has been or is a part of your life.

I almost put this book away several times because it was hard to read the detailed abuse she suffered. However, she writes so well and true and helps the reader understand SO much more than her story. I feel more educated on abuse, abusers, mental illness and a lot more. Michelle's story has inspired me to help others that experienced what she did. Although I am not a survivor of child abuse, I hope to make a difference in someone else's life that is.

Best book I've ever read about child abuse. Being a victim of child sexual abuse It feels like the author is saying your feelings that you don't find the words to describe. There was alot of answers I got from reading this book. I read it in 2 days. I recommend it to anyone who suffered from child abuse. It hits home. Very detailing in how the abuse happen it's not for the weak mind.

I highly recommend this book. I know most people don't like reading about child abuse, child trafficking but I feel it's necessary to understand and have empathy since the news outlets often downplay how common and terrible child trafficking is. It's much easier to read news about celebrities and light hearted issues vs something as terrible as child trafficking. However, I learned quite a bit about how child abuse can effect a person's entire life.

It was an awesome book! I loved the fact that even though Michelle went through hell....she overcame and conquered her fears. I suffer from PTSD myself and although it is not from abuse...rather from multiple major car accidents. I learned a great deal. I am still in counseling and making great progress, although I still have my bad days as well. Injuries after injuries...plus 13 surgeries and facing another it has been gruesome at times. I taught many years myself, but started having physical signs from not acknowledging my own pain. It came out in seizures and fainting spells. I will never give up just as you didn't...I am so proud of you and all the people you are helping with DID!!! :-)

Reading about her abuse was very hard to read and comprehend. Her bravery to persevere gives hope. She always had a fire inside to better herself even in her darkest times. I now understand more about DID. I also learned a lot about my own abuse. I didn't survive what she did, but physical abuse I did as a kid. Thank you for being so brace to write this book! I will recommend this book. One day I hope to give Michelle a huge hug! Book tour!!! Lol!!

This is an amazing true story of Michelle Steven's years of brutal sexual abuse by a step father and her mother's failure to protect her. She endured incredible mental illness due to her abuse and years of therapy but finally she began to heal. She went to college, obtained her Ph.D. In clinical psychology and has devoted her life to helping other victims . A.A.

It is a very interesting read and is a great problem in our societies.. What can we do to STOP this? If anything.. This makes me very upset and angry to think that she went through this and it was not discovered like so many others.. I am still reading this book.

Michelle's narrative is clear and powerful. In telling her truth, she is making a difference in more lives than she knows. If you've been there, she gets you, if you love someone who has been assaulted, she opens your eyes. The time I spent reading this book changed my life and outlook. Thank you.

I believe every social worker and anyone in this field should read this book. I learn so much by Michelle's writing. May God bless her.

This is an account of a child tortured, and unprotected by the adults in her life, who battles the demons buried within her and heroically defeats them over time, enough to become an expert therapist to guide those with DID toward a functioning, fulfilling life, just as Michelle has done.

I have met Michelle a few times. She is a lovely, interesting and certainly normal-seeming woman. I had no idea she was struggling with all these terrible issues! What a strong lady she is indeed to endure more than I can hardly bear to read about. Thank you Moochie for holding these horrific experiences up to the light so that others who may be struggling can gain confidence from your witness.

This was a hard book to read being a victim of child sexual abuse. I read it over a weekend and had different emotions while reading it. I felt guilty reading the details of what was going on in her life at the time, maybe because I had hid my memories so much in the back of my mind for so many years... I am not sure. I do wish that she explained a little more on what happened when she took her parents to court. (she mentioned it briefly in the book).

This jaw-dropping story of the author's journey from child sex slave to therapist is simultaneously heartbreaking and heartwarming. Her brave recounting of being abused and brainwashed ranges from humorous to horrible as we learn the seedy reality of child trafficking here in the U.S. The raw truth is difficult to get through at times, but it's worth the journey.

This book will have you crying from all the atrocious acts she had to endure. It gives you a good glimpse into the life of both the victim and predator. She brings up horrific abuse about things I never imagined a child would be subjected to. I really admire her courage for writing this. People ask what I'm reading, and when I tell them they ask if they could borrow it when I'm done; that's how good this book is.

This is a great book for anyone who has undergone abuse or is supporting someone who is (Guardian Ad Litem, Counselor, Doctor, Teacher, Parent, Friend). It gives hope that anyone can survive and thrive afterwards.

Just wow. I loved every minute of this book. What an inspiring story and very informational. She did a fabulous job of writing this book. She made it understandable and I could not put this book down all weekend. I'm just sad its over!

Very interesting true story of childhood sexual abuse and trauma. Story was well written and not too graphic for adult readers. Tells the story of human resiliency and the human power to overcome horrendous abuse, pain and guilt.

I recommend this book and I would suggest you prepare to be shocked and horrified to see how evil a man can be. Our world is sick with many sins of man taking advantage of others who can not protect themselves. Thank God she was strong so that she can help others.

I’m a lover of Autobiographies. When I found Michelle Stevens’ story, I immediately started reading her book. The amount of respect I have for this woman is overwhelming. The book first half of the book takes you through the horrific experiences she endured as a child. I think it was so necessary to describe this traumatic part of her life so that the reader can have the full experience, and might I add, get through the worst. It was an amazing read and very educational!

This is the best book I have read on the subject. I have read many and am a professional.This extremely gifted person has opened to us the way through utter hell. I live with a victim of childhood sexual abuse as an only child,by mother, who has survived with family and demanding career. Dr. Stevens represents the best and I do appreciate her gifts. Through the Grace of God,

Great read, the story was alarming but also showed her strength.

This book is really inspiring . A great read , a little tough at the beginning due to the nature Of the abuse. But I really recommend tbjs book to anyone that has been through sexual abuse.

Courageous! This was a facinating read, although it was difficult to read at first. The trauma accounts are quite vivid. Very helpful in helping to understand DID and PTSD.

It was well-written, I found it inspirational and motivational as I journey through my own traumas and negative past experiences!

This book is a must read for anyone who has been the victim of sexual child abuse. This is a true story of how Dr. Stevens was horribly abused as a child and how she was able to survive such dire circumstances and become successful

I'm impressed with how the author managed to survive and ultimately thrive. However, so much detail about how she felt and thought and how she eventually healed is missing. It felt as though she were talking about someone other than herself. As someone who has been a victim of childhood abuse, I get it. I have wanted many times to get it on paper, but can't yet.

Hard to read so I can image the difficulty for the author! Well written and I didn't want to put it down. Kudos to this author for pulling herself out of this and becoming the productive and loving person she looks to be!

This is not a simple story to listen to. But it's a reality how horrible child abuse can be. My heart goes out to Michelle and how brave she had to be to open up and tell it. We are all inriched by knowing how devastating this crime is and the impact on a victims life it is.

This book is hard to read. However, her story of survival is awe inspiring. To still believe and trust in God after all she indured is a true miracle. I wish that Gary would have lived to be held accountable for what he did. Although I was also pleased by his death. I pray that God continues in her life.

Very well told story and facts. My book did come with lots of writing and underlining. Which I found to be every odd.

Whoa! I found about this book from watching Dr. Phil. I highly recommend everyone who is struggling to live or thinks they are living a perfect life to read this. No one is perfect until you fully know what's happening in our world.

I relate to this child’s life. Very much like mine was. A sad story, but turns to glory.

This book was well written, in a manner that the unspeakable horror of her life, could only be understood as she herself began to understand it. You cannot help but want to help, and empathize with all who cannot help but act out these symptoms of abuse.

I know a person who has gone through some of these same things at a very young age.

Just finished reading this book, and all I can say is WOW! All I can express is how admirable Dr. Michelle Stevens is to not only share her story but fulfill life by helping others overcome the very circumstances she did. Definitely a must read!!

Absolutely incredible. Had to read for class focusing on child abuse, and this book has taught me more than any textbook I've read. You find yourself carried into the story and filled with emotion. Thank you for writing this book and being brave enough to tell your story, I will carry with me a lot that I learned from this book

The fact that she and so many children can survive and tell someone "Who "put you through this night mares.i have a lot of this in my childhood,from family,uncles ,cousin,friends...some still bother me at times,I have a lot of trust issues.would recommend to anyone who has been touched,raped or mentally wronged by someone.

I heard about this book from my english teacher and purchased it on amazon kindle, I had to put it down and take a break within the first chapter! Its very intense but also intiguing a must read for any student but not for the faint of heart.

Takes you through dispair to eventual joy during her lifetime. Very well written. Highly recommended. Would be helpful for anyone with DID, MPD or history of child sexual abuse to read this autobiography by someone who endured it and still succeeded in life and found happinesss.

Very good book in teaching how to help those in such a tramatic state that should never occur! Michelle does an awesome and very transparent job in sharing her story of hope.

Unforgettable story of triumph over tragedy. Her story has inspired me that I too can heal AND have success after a similar childhood that has been holding me back. Incredible grateful that the author had the courage to write her story.

Very hard to read in the beginning, it draws you in and you want to see this sweet innocent child succeed. Finished the book in one day and cried tears of sadness, disbelief, shock and eventually joy. She is incredibly resilient and inspirational.

A captivating read. Although sometimes difficult to read, due to the awful abuse, it is an important story. The path to recovery quite fascinating.

What an amazing book! I'm so glad I read this and learned of her trials and fight to survive and overcome!

This is a very enlightening book. To often we go through life not knowing or turning a blind eye to the things that are wrong that no one talks about. This book was an incredible story of a survivor that defeated all odds. It is beautifully written and so well thought out.

A learning experience from start to finish to come to terms with our own abuse during childhood. Problem behaviour is mostly the symptoms of abuse , a cry for help and not naughtiness !

Great book to bring REAL life experiences and connect them to Multiple personality disorders and place a disturbing spotlight on the underground sex trade! I hope this and all that is coming to light will annihilate issues (for lack of words) like these and encourage victims to seek help. God Bless you Dr. Stevens from deep in my heart, you made a difference in my life!

It reinforced to me the subtle and not so subtle ways a pedophile can engage a child and victimize them into not telling. I love that sje is such a strong survivor trying to help those who are still caught in the struggle of surviving childhood sexual abuse.

There are too many weirdos in the world!!!!!

5 STARS! I recently had my first mental health breakdown, but would describe mine as a total breakdown of self, body, and soul. Due to my spouse leaving, unannounced. My world as I knew it would be an ongoing nightmare of mourning, hopelessness, and a dream to die.

You are a hero and a fighter! You are a role model for women everywhere. Thank you for sharing your story of survival and triumph.

I saw this author on Dr Phil and immediately bought her book. It is the authors life growing up and was severely abused. She came out of her horrible childhood and became a psychologist for abuse during children. It's a very disturbing read but well worth reading.

What i like most about this book was to see how someone can suffer the unimaginable and still rise above the horrors they lived, endure the long painful process of healing, and make something amazing of themselves such as using their experience to help others.

Book

The Author's journey and bravery is truly inspiring. Very educational and very emotional. The author makes you feel as though you are with her. So clear and descriptive. The author's story has changed my life.

A must read for those who have suffered psych A must read for those who have suffered extreme trauma in their childhood and also for the people that love them. It helps all to understand why confusing behaviors may be occurring and brings hope that life can be good again!

WOW! How can humans behave far worse than most of us could imagine. God bless the victims and I'll pray for your recovery.

I believe everyone should read this book. The nay Sayers, about all misunderstandings of child abuse. Why they often "recant" .. and so many other doubts.

Scared Selfless: by Michelle Stevens was very good. This innocent little girl went through Hell. Her mother let her stay with a complete stranger whom she met at an antique shop. His name was Gary Lundquist who was an elementary school teacher.. Michelle is only eight years old and her mother allows her to stay with Gary for a weekend, because he wants to get to know her. . Then after spending an entire weekend being tortured, her mother actually moves in with this psycho.Michelle has to put up with this man , who takes her to places where she is raped and molested by men. When she is thirteen years old, he gets her pregnant and then gives her a homemade abortion where Michelle almost bleeds to death. She splits into different personalities. When she is in her twenties, she moves in with her best friend and he wants to marry her, but Michelle tells him she thinks she's gay. He admits he is also. Michelle moves in with her partner Chris and they get married before the same sex law starts and Michelle gives birth to a son Mikey through IVF.Through lots of therapy and two times in a psychiatric.ward. Michelle finally remembers her earlier life that she blocked out.

Great info and story to help any abuse survivor, especially people who experienced, or think they might have experienced, sexual abuse as a child.

This is an in-depth recount of an individual who is a survivor of child abuse and away to heal from it.

I identified with so much of this book. It was healing.

It was insightful and probably the most well written book I have ever read. I highly recommend it to any reader.

everyone should read this book! it is so sad that this type of abuse goes on and how it affects the development of a young persons personality. we really need to stop this type of abuse and eradicate it

I rated this 5 stars because it was well written. The author is graphic in her descriptions and, I think very honest. To go through what was described and not only come out of it but go on to help others with similar histories and disorders- all I can say is wow! She is made of pretty strong stuff.

This book was a real eye-opener. . This was an an interesting read, but disturbing subject matter for sure .

Great book

I found, especially the first third of the book, extremely triggering, but at the same time it explained things I had wondered about for a long time. Throughout the book, so many answers to so many things. I found this book both heart-wrenching and very informative. By reading books such as this, perhaps persons who have had a rather ideal life can expand their knowledge and compassion for those who haven't; and those who have been abused can find therapeutic benefit reading this book. It is exceptionally well written. Kudos for not accepting the psychiatric prognosis given, and your determination to create a full, rewarding life!

Although this is one of the most traumatic stories I have ever read the author has such a beautiful and detailed writing style. I like the second half of the book that captures the journey and struggle towards healing also.

So good and well written, I couldn't put it down. Gives eye opening explanation on mental health.

Saw on Dr. Phil ,wellwritten interesting ,but hard subject to read.

Very hard to read with the realistic images of the life Michelle Stevens, PhD lived. I appreciate reading this book as I am a survivor of molestation as a child. Thank you for sharing your story and show how you came back. It has helped me to find my own way back.

I can't say enough great things about this book. Such a wonderfully powerful story. It has shown me that is is in fact possible to move on and live a meaningful life after severe trauma.

Excellent

Quick and easy read. Very inciteful.

Good book!

Sad that this type of thing goes on at all. Impressed that this girl could tell her story to help others.

Difficult to stomach, but a great read. I had to keep putting it down to gather myself.

No one should have to live through such soul killing experiences. This book inspires compassion.

powerful and gives an amazing perspective and sheer will power we all innately hold to overcome all forms of trauma

Heartbreaking that any child can endure what Michelle went through. I give her tons of credit for all her hard work. Sad how many therapists she went through. Shocking amount of school teachers that dont report anything or just dont give a s***! I wish she talked about the civil case against her parents.

A powerful story of survival and healing. Michelle gives all of us hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

This book is excellent. Not only a true story, but a very powerful one. A story that educates and opens eyes. Michelle Stevens has done amazing work with this book!

Very good book.

I started and finished this book in 2 days! I could not put it down! While the abuse the author suffered was horrendous and at times difficult to read, it was an inspiring and amazing story of struggle, trauma, and triumph. Resilience at its finest! Highly recommended!

inspiring and heart wrenching

This book is a powerful insight to abuse and the symptoms that develop after an adult/parent betray a child's trust in the most horrific way.

The author is authentic and easy to follow. She brought the disorder to life. It will help in my practice.

What an amazing story of survival and strength!

Nice easy read, matterial was difficult to hear though. Great book!!

This book offers insight and hope in a refreshingly honest and straightforward manner for individuals afflicted with mental illness. A magnificent read.

Who could ever imagine this kind of suffering and healing. This book is a great revelation. I loved it. Good read.

Great book. I could not put it down! A must read for anyone who has ever experienced any type of abuse.

Well written and graphic so adult book due to subject.

The abuse communicated in this book is beyond believe. For someone to survive, let alone thrive is simply astonishing. Not an easy read if you have suffered abuse, as it is sure to open up existing, and/or hidden fears and memories, but at the same time helpful in delivering a message of hope.

Enjoy

Chilling and remarkable!!

This is a difficult story to read because of the dastardly perpetrator. But I am so glad this author dared to tell her story which will alert all of us about the extent of abuse children can be subjected to. I greatly appreciated this books council on some of the signs in a child that may indicate she is being abused. I now understand why so many abused children cannot tell others what is happening to them. I was so glad the this brave author described her long and arduous journey to recovery and her subsequent path in helping others. Bravo. Great book full of hope and love

A true story of horror and healing.Amazing strength.

Awesome book I loved it!

This book is a true inspiration. She is an absolute miracle person . I hope it gives hope to every abuse victim

Scared Selfless is about a conversation that we as a culture need to have. It's a memoir that shares the author's experience of childhood sexual abuse and how it impacted her life and physical and mental health, but it's also a tool to educate and inform its readers about the vulnerability of our precious children and the mindset of these awfully sick individuals who perpetuate these sex crimes. The book is invaluable in how it shines a light on these terrible situations so that we can better recognize that these crimes occur and that we must do more to prevent them, address them, and heal the wounded victims. Scared Selfless is surprisingly a life story that any reader would find interesting. It is so riveting, literally an on-the-edge-of-your-seat experience that you won't want to put down. The author deftly maneuvers between personal history and intellectual exploration of the psychology of childhood sex crimes. Her turn of words is so graciously handled that you feel that you are hearing the story as if a friend is right there with you sharing it...and she is. But there's also the takeaway that anyone...can overcome with enough will. Whatever demons one is facing, whatever challenges and obstacles before them, this book will empower you to request more of yourself so you can enjoy more of your life. And if you are flailing to get to that mental state, the author through her words is right there with you, encouraging you to live the best life you can. It was a bold move to tell this story, for which the author should be applauded for her courage and concern for others. This book is rightfully earning its place on not only my bookshelf, but on best seller lists nationwide.

While I really enjoyed this book, it was a quick read. The story is very disturbing but I couldn't tell if it was verging on a self help book. I found myself skipping over some of the psychology mumbo jumbo. I was more interested in the parts about the details of her life. It definitely left me feeling like I wished there was more biography than psychology in the book. If you read books to help fall asleep, this is not the book. The graphic detail isn't relaxing and makes your heart race and it's depressing. Overall I would recommend. Not a boring read.

Very interesting & honest telling of her ordeals. Very strong woman

This book is sad, but does educate the public what goes on to these innocent children. If only mothers could see the signs to stop abuse when the children are unable to tell when they are wanting help.

This book is very interesting

This book was so honest and authentic I could not put it down. I know I've read a great book when I'm sad it's ended.

Very sad but happy she survived.

One of the best books I've ever read. I will definitely be reading it again soon! What an amazing inspiration the writer is!

Couldn't put it down once I started it. Finished it the same day I got it!.

Great

Almost done the book Very good educating book

I really enjoyed this book!

Loved reading this book. Learned a lot.

it was hard to read emotionly

Great story of perseverance, however I felt like it went on too long. Wouldn't read it again, but good book.

A powerful s account of abuse by woman with true grit and courage. A must read.

Couldn't put it down

What a privilege to read Dr. Stevens' story. The extent of the childhood abuse she suffered is not for the faint of heart, but we must not let the horror of it turn our awareness from the important topics she shares. Dr. Stevens notes several times in her life when those who could have helped her failed to do so. If you want to help turn the tide to protect innocent lives, you would do well to read this book and consider how you would act if faced with someone like Dr. Stevens at various times in her life. Her story also speaks to the power that compassion and love can have in healing from some of the most traumatic circumstances.

This is the best book I have ever read in my life.

Great book, well written and very insightful.

Too graphic

This is an excellent book for anyone who has been touched by some sort of trauma. It provides helpful insight into those who have been affected. Great read but not for the faint of heart

Good condition

None

Everyone needs to read this book. It is truly unbelievable that this happens to our innocent children right under our noses! Adults pay attention!

This book made me feel so many different emotions, I recommend it to everyone! The power we hold is incredible.

Perfect! like always

Part memoir, part self-help, this book is raw, emotional, heartbreaking, hopeful, and inspiring.

Michelle is an amazing woman! The trauma of her childhood was so hard to read but in the end she becomes the "winner." Her courage and perseverance to become her own person is inspiring. I saw Michelle on Dr.Phil's show with another woman who was abused as a child. Dr. Phil praised Michelle's book. I am so glad I took his recommendation!

This book was recommended on the Dr.Phil episode featuring child trafficking and a pedophile ring. The book is detailed and disturbing however it is informative. This book brings awareness to the nightmare children are living behind closed doors. Fortunately there is a happy ending told by this survivor.

After reading this, I completely understand how someone develops DID. The things that were done to Michelle were hard to read, but there is much there from which to learn. You don't like to think child sexual abuse happens, but of course it does. Her fight as an adult to learn to live be a full life is inspiring.

Heartbreaking. Interesting information about multiple personality. I would say this book is about DID (multiple personality) and the behavior of pedophiles rather than a autobiography about abuse as a child. Author is brilliant, strong and encouraging.

If I could give Michelle a hug I would. No child should ever be treated as she was, and yet she uses her past and her pain to help others grow and learn from their trauma. Both eye-opening and riveting. Thank you for sharing your pain with us.

Could not put it down. Even when I wanted to. It does have some hard parts but I kept reading because she had the strength to write it and revisit this life that she’s overcome. It sickens me that children are going through this as I listen to my son playing in his room right now. Really great book, I highly recommend

This book is a master's course on learning to understand both the behavior of traumatized, abused children and of the predatory nature of pedophiles. The author prefaced her book stressing the importance of individuals sharing one's story to help others. Thus, she chose to share hers. She is an incredibly brave individual both in sharing her story and surviving her childhood. No child should ever be exposed to such horror. Parents, teachers, those who have the blessing of working with children need to be more vigilant in protecting the innocents from the depravity of pedophiles. Pedophilia does not happen by mistake. Pedophiles are to be found wherever there are children. They are master predators seeking grooming their next victim...always. Parents, read and learn and protect your children!

Very inspiring to hear her personal story and recovery. We all have different traumas of varying degrees that we need to face so that they don't hold us back. Child abuse of this or any type is far too common and needs to be rooted out of our society immediately. Don't thnk that "pizza or pedogate" isn't real, or that public figures and politicians aren't involved as well, globally. One of many things we need to stand up and change.

Scared Selfless is the powerful, detailed, and frequently horrifying account of being the child sex slave of a cruel monster. Its depiction of the author's ordeal, and the decades of mental illness that followed, is both gripping and artfully rendered. In addition to its inspiring message about the triumph of the human spirit against overwhelming odds, this book effectively debunks a number of commonly-held myths about child sexual abuse and recovered memory therapy from someone uniquely qualified to do so: a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and former psychiatric in-patient who is now a practicing psychologist. Surviving a childhood marked by years of sexual abuse and exploitation was a supreme act of courage. So was the writing of this unforgettable book.

One of my friends recommend this book to me, and I never imagined just how great it would be. Scared Selfless is a beautiful, yet frightening, account of both the most horrible and the most uplifting people this world has to offer. Michelle’s ability to rise up despite her past and to harness it to help others is nothing short of amazing.

As a survivor, i was torn between reading it and not. It also didn't help that i knew Michelle and Gary. He was my teacher for fifth and sixth grade. I read it in 24 hours. Unfortunately, the princess and heroine has a sadistic and evil stepfather, and the torture is worse than any "Cinderella" story. Once you begin reading it, you can't put it down. It actually provided me a lot of useful information regarding therapy. Michelle opened herself up, to raise awareness, and by doing so inspired others. All i can say is read it! Read it! Read it!!!

Excellent product and service. Great!

Excellent, insightful novel.

This book is amazingly written and the story is incredibly moving. The author went through such heartbreaking trauma and the work that went into her recovery is truly inspiring.

The story that unfolds in Scared Selfless is Unbelievable. What happened to Michelle Stevens as a child is Unimaginable. But today she is Unbreakable. And in telling her story, she is Undeterred. So often, we as human beings are held hostage by our pasts, defined by the choices we've made and the mistakes that continue to haunt our every action and motivations. Michelle Stevens, in laying out her truth for the world to read and hear, must possess what is surely a tidal wave of inner strength and bravery. In Scared Selfless, she commandeers that tragedy and trauma and channels it into something beautiful, courageous, and inspiring. For those who are afraid to read this, for those who want to remain oblivious and blind to the dark impulses of humanity, know that this book and this story is not about her captors. It's not about her abuse or her victimization or her tragedy. It's about her recovery. It's about her determination, her grit, and her personal triumph. This is a story for us all to know.

I loved this book. Dr. Michelle Stevens so bravely tells her life story, in gripping detail, of being captured and abused as a child by a professional sexual molester and sex lord, and subsequent road to recovery. What makes this book such a great read is the emotional depth and remarkable psychological insight woven into every page. She's in the unique position to share from both the victim's point of view and psychological scholar. Her writing style is personal yet strangely multi-faceted which draws the reader, drew me, into her world from page one. A breakthrough book for victims and beautiful gift to the world - MUST READ!!!

I cannot say I would recommend this book. It is long and drawn out. And so much of her information is repeated. I thought she could have been more concise............just too wordy. Carol F. Raines

I didn't finish it. Too intense.

I got an early copy of this book through a friend who works at a library. She gave it to me because she loved it and thought I would too. (We're both huge fans of "A Child Called It") She was right! It's a fast, addictive read, the kind of book you can't put down. I read the whole thing in a weekend, because I was so into it that I canceled all my other plans. The book is about a girl who is taken in by an evil pedophile who abuses her in horrible ways. As a teen and adult, she struggles with mental illness because of all the bad things she's been through. It was very inspirational to see how hard she worked to heal and fix her life. It made me realize that it really is possible to overcome anything if you try hard enough. The woman is now a psychologist, and the book is full of really interesting information about brainwashing, child abuse, borderline personality disorder, repressed memories, PTSD, depression, etc. She explains multiple personality disorder in a way that finally makes sense to me. All the psychology stuff isn't boring like a psych textbook. It's just all really interesting and part of the story, kind of the way Malcolm Gladwell explains things. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes a harrowing, exciting, true story. (I think I liked it even better than "A Child Called It") It's also really great for anyone who's been abused or has mental illness, or anybody who wants to know more about those things. I ordered the hard copy so I could have it on my shelf to read again.

I couldn't get past Chapter 3. Horribly graphic. This poor author.

the story was great, but the book itself had alot of faded print and brown streaks on several pages.

It's hard to believe something that horrible could happen to an 8 year old child and still survive. I wish her the best of luck in the future.

Not real sure how wise it is for one to diagnose oneself. A few times in her self examination, I disagreed with her conclusions about herself. It felt several times she was adding one and one and getting 3 because she found 3 a more comfortable conclusion than the sum 2. I don't doubt her story, however I question some of her conclusions. She literally suddenly decides she's a lesbian. She suddenly decides she's meant to be a therapist. With her stating she has multiple personalities, how is one to know if The Lesbian or The Therapist aren't just two more personalities that appeared?

Wasn't the topic I expected

Super!!!

I had the honor of interviewing Michelle for both First For Women and Simple Grace magazines. I was shipped an advanced copy of her book and read it from cover to cover in two days. By the time I had her on the phone to interview her for the features, I was in complete awe of her book, her story and her courage. She is so open about the unspeakable trauma she sustained throughout her childhood in the book's pages, as well as brutally honest in taking readers through the decades long journey of the aftermath of mental illness including multiple personalities. This book is so powerful and beautifully written from the heart and soul of a determined survivor. When I finished the last page, I was changed forever. I knew whatever life threw my way, I wanted to be a Michelle! She is now a psychologist, author and speaker helping others heal from pain and trauma. I will forever be grateful that she had the courage to write her inspiring story and am sure it will touch millions of people all around the world.

Michelle's journey will inspire you no matter what obstacles you have faced or will face in your lifetime. She is living proof that JOY comes in the morning. This book is one to be shared and I plan on revisiting its pages time and time again as well as sharing with my loved ones who are being released from madness and looking to survive and thrive. If there is one book that you must read this year- THIS IS IT.

I have a hard time believing a lot of this book. “Recovered memories” and “sudden epiphanies” of being molested and driving down the street and deciding you’re gay... it’s supposed to be a memoir but it’s written more like a tacky piece of fantasy. I was excited to read this after reading Manic (EXCELLENT book) but the quality of writing and story telling isn’t there. I’m working very hard to finish this book.

Wow. Speechless. Just an amazing story I couldn't imagine in my wildest dreams. Much left to think about. Childhood trauma- we may not realize. Cam't say I'd recommend, as I'd rather have this world a more ideal place, but it's an eye opener.