Some memories never fade, they spark a survival story.

No two people are identical and no one walks the exact same path in life. One thing is certain though, similar experiences bring on comparable feelings, fears, and hesitations. There is an unspoken understanding for an individual who has experienced sexual assault. A Force to Be Reckoned With: Regaining Direction after Sexual Assault is one women’s story of her aftermath of being sexually assaulted. Author Erin Thomas explains her path and describes how the experience affected every aspect of her life. She points out problems with the system, especially when it relates to the institutional church. This book will remind readers, whether you are a survivor of sexual assault, know someone who is, or are yet to be affected in some way: survivors have a story to tell that can affect others and have prolonged positive impacts. This book reminds survivors to unite and flourish until we live in a world free of sexual violence.

Sexual assault doesn't discriminate. It doesn't care about gender, race, or economic status. Sexual assault only knows how to inflicts pain and suffering in all aspects of life for a survivor and can affect those around them. The pain and suffering is not something that a survivor of sexual assault has to carry alone, and putting the correct pieces in place can help facilitate the process of healing.  No matter how long ago the pain was infected, healing can begin and progress can be made.   Author Erin Thomas speaks from firsthand experience about personal, professional, and spiritual turmoil and struggles, and the breaking point to start healing. She shines a light on social injustice and calls for awareness and education in society. Unfortunately, her story is a common one. Not the type of story you typically see on the news or circulating through your social media feed. Yet, through personal and spiritual growth, Erin has learned that no two people are identical, and no one walks the exact same path in life. One thing is certain though, similar experiences bring on comparable feelings, fears, and hesitations. She hopes that sharing her story will give courage and strength to other survivors to come forward, unite, and begin healing.

Erin Thomas is a survivor of sexual assault. She was raised in the church and is the daughter of an Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) pastor. Erin is a wife, mother, former college athlete, healthcare provider, and volunteer and speaker with a not-for-profit sexual trauma-prevention organization.