Product Description

This is the shocking, timely, and inspirational memoir of Elissa Wall, the former member of the FLDS polygamist sect whose powerful courtroom testimony helped convict controversial sect leader Warren Jeffs in September 2007. Detailing how Jeffs forced her into an unwanted marriage at age 14, Elissa speaks candidly about the horrifying reality she faced as a young teenager in a devastating marriage to a man five years her senior. But what began as tragic tale of forced marriage quickly descended into madness, as Elissa's troubled relationship spiraled out of control before her vows were even spoken.The end result of the union was a nightmare of rape and abuse that Elissa suffered at the hands of her Church-appointed husband and in the name of God. Offering an unfettered glimpse into the world of the FLDS she explains how the confines of her dangerous marriage and surroundings left her with few options. Pushed out of her home by abuse, she began living in her car to avoid the crushing realities of her situation. And yet somehow, in face of this bleak reality, she never gave up on the hope that she would some day find a way out. But though Elissa won her freedom from the FLDS, she had yet to earn her victory, and here she illustrates how she used her newfound freedom to put Warren Jeffs behind bars.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1049070 in Books
• Published on: 2008-06-06
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 448 pages

Customer Reviews

Inspirational and eye opening
Having read the Banner of Heaven I was hoping to read this book and get more feelings of what it was like for someone who went through day to day issues and upheavals under the control of Warren Jeffs.
Absolutely inspirational book and is right at the top of my recommendations. This books offers an in depth look into what the life of someone in this sect is like. My heart and best wishes go out to Elisa.

Greater understanding and empathy...
Like Caroline Jessop's book, Elissa's story is heartbreaking and promising all at the same time. Elissa was 14 years old when she was forced into marriage with her 19 year old cousin whom she could not stand. Elissa talks about her life and the people in the community and how she got out. She gives a great insight into how the community functions and how they are so susceptible to being victimised. I came away from this book with a greater understanding of the FLDS and even some empathy for it. Elissa tells her story of tragedy but without any bitterness or resentment and makes sure that the reader knows that the average FLDS person is just trying to be a better person.