Divorcing Religion, Finding God - by Achea Redd (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Divorcing Religion, Finding God

Faith was never meant to wound.

In Divorcing Religion, Finding God, Achea explores the difficult but liberating journey of separating personal faith from the harm caused by religious institutions. Through her powerful personal story of growing up in a church environment marked by control, manipulation, and spiritual abuse, Achea opens the door to an honest conversation about a reality many people carry quietly: religious trauma.

Part memoir and part guide, the book shares Achea's experiences alongside stories from others who have faced similar pain within religious spaces. It examines how trauma can develop in churches, cult-like environments, and communities shaped by unhealthy leadership. Abuse of power, spiritual manipulation, emotional control, religious intolerance, and betrayal often leave lasting emotional and spiritual wounds. Achea helps readers recognize these patterns and understand how they can affect identity, faith, and mental well-being.

But this book is not only about what was lost. It is about what can be restored.

Divorcing Religion, Finding God gently walks readers through the process of recognizing religious abuse, understanding the impact of trauma, and beginning the work of healing. Through therapy, reflection, and intentional spiritual practices, readers are encouraged to reclaim their voice, release shame, and rebuild a relationship with spirituality that is rooted in truth rather than fear.

Achea reminds readers that leaving harmful religious systems does not mean abandoning faith. For many, it becomes the first step toward rediscovering a deeper and more authentic connection with The Divine.

Review Quotes

"Divorcing Religion, Finding God is a courageous and unflinching examination of how fear-based faith shapes a child's sense of safety, worth, and belonging. This book names the trauma of spiritual performance and the quiet damage of obedience without love. It is not an attack on God, but a reclaiming of faith from fear. For anyone healing from religious harm, this book is a powerful act of truth." - Sherrie Campbell PhD,