When the Enemy is the One You Love
A Book Review of Overcoming The Narcissist, Sociopath, Psychopath, and Other Domestic Abusers
Written by Charlene D. Quint, J.D., C.D.V.P.
Reviewed by Denise Goosby
Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the cause of the widow.
~Isaiah 1:17 NIV
When I took the book out of the package, I almost dropped it.
I expected your typical paperback book filled with stories and information. But this was undoubtedly a comprehensive guidebook into how women can avoid, survive, and find healing from domestic violence. And how people—especially pastors—can answer God’s call to come along side them with support and protection.
Published by Romans 8:28 Books (Redemption Press), Overcoming is a textbook with heart. It begins with a stunning poem by Kim Karpeles called “Hero In An Invisible War”, a lyrical, soul-stirring summary of a woman escaping harm.
It serves as a summary of the book’s mission to honor the “brave women who have made the decision to break the chains of abuse and start a new life of peace and love for themselves and their children.”
A series of questions follows that breaks your heart. Why is he so mean? Will he hurt me again? Am I the only one going through this? Will I ever be happy again? Is God mad at me?
Author Quint thoughtfully answers each of these questions and so much more. Her descriptions of the characteristics of abusers along with biblical examples in the Bible is must read. I could not stop.
I appreciated how she contrasted the attributes of healthy relationships with those that are abusive. Knowledge is power. Quint’s writing not only helps abuse survivors, but it may prevent many women from being victimized.
Just as importantly, the book gives a passionate argument for why the church needs to do a better job of advocating for those—especially Christian women—suffering from the sin of domestic violence. Every minister, pastor, counselor, and parishioner should read this book. If you know someone in need of this healing resource, please get it for them.
It is a gift.