emerygirl's review

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4.0

I loved this book. It was very honest, but didn't paint religion in a bad light at all. I learned a lot about the FLDS culture.


Update July 2022:

I have read this book before, but after watching “Keep Sweet, Pray and Obey” on Netflix I wanted to refresh myself with Elissa’s story. I read it quickly the second time and really enjoyed it. It made me grateful for the blessings I have. I admire her courage and strength.

bexxa12345's review

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5.0

This book has been on my “want to read” list forever, I added it after learning about the FLDS a few years ago, and since mmmm I’ve been following news about it ever since. I could never find a physical copy, but I finally found the audiobook version and have been listening to it at work for a few days, my longest one at nearly 16 hours long.

Writing this review while listening to the epilogue, and the ending is so bittersweet. Elissa gets justice, but that does not stop what is still happening in the FLDS church. Warren Jeff’s still continues to lead the church as a profit from prison, and a large amount of his followers don’t even know he’s in jail. There is still a long way to go, but I’m sure there will be a day where the FLDS is dismantled.

Also, Craig signed an affidavit against their sister? Wasn’t he the one who helped them all get their lives together after escape? Unless I’m confused, I’ve been listening to this book for a few days.

hectaizani's review

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4.0

The disturbing memoir of a young woman raised in a fundamentalist sect of the Mormon church that continues to promote and follow polygamous teachings.

While I don't have a problem with the idea of polygamy when practiced by consenting adults, I do have an issue with the idea of teenaged girls married to 83 year-old men, and with the idea of teenaged boys being removed from their homes so that they aren't in competition with their elders.

I found it very interesting how the author's family was so divided over the issue of her coming forward.

dstone31's review against another edition

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dark emotional inspiring sad tense fast-paced

4.25

positivewoman2013's review against another edition

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5.0

Written very clearly. Love for her family runs throughout, but she had to step up and let the truth be told.

ashleyaselin's review

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Wasn’t engaging enough

christina_likes_to_read's review

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4.0

This was a hard subject matter to read about. But, I thought the book was well written and it kept my interest. 3.5 stars.

migimon2002's review

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4.0

This is now the third book I've read regarding the FLDS culture. I was engaged in Elissa's story from start to finish. She was subjected to some extreme situations at such a young age. I am happy she was able to discover the freedom of choice - once she was able to leave the FLDS. I wish her happiness with her husband and children, and hope she can be reunited with other family members in the future. There is a lot to be learned from Elissa's internal strength & perseverance, and I highly recommend this memoir.

tlctbr's review

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3.0

It's hard to believe this type of thing is going on in our country. It's a very interesting story and worth reading for content.

kaylawhite17's review

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4.0

This was overall a fascinating story. I felt some of it was a little drawn out and I was ready for the book to be over when it was done. I find other religions and cultures fascinating. Especially ones that use religion to control a large group of people. I felt like the author did a good job portraying both the bad in the religion and the good. I wouldn't read it again, but it was an interesting one time read! ;)