Book Reviews

"Peaceful Heart is one of the most profound books to discuss and describe the brutality and horror of rape and a victim's challenge with dealing with the psychic trauma, which buries itself much deeper than the physical trauma. The denial and attempts to bury the trauma to "get on with her life," the achievements she was able to accomplish while just holding on to sanity then the awakening of the physical trauma in later life, the nightmares, depression, difficulty trusting in relationships all written with concise detail and clarity. Anyone who wishes to gain a deeper understanding of rape and its many manifestations in ones soul or to find greater peace for your own trauma Peaceful Heart is a must read. Aimee displays great courage in writing her book and is a living testament to the power of EMDR in the recovery process. As a psychiatrist I will be recommending her book to all who suffer from trauma and those professionals who treat such patients." -- (John M. Mike, M.D., author Brilliant Babies Powerful Adults: Awaken the Genius Within).

"Aimee offers this book as a gift to those who suffer in silence. Her journey, from the depths of despair to her ultimate recovery, gives evidence to the extraordinary strength of the human spirit. Aimee has the unique ability to connect with the reader and provide a comforting source of inspiration. She is a remarkable woman who I am honored and blessed to know. Peaceful Heart will change your life. I know it has changed mine." -- (Gail Azar, LMHC)

"While intended for victims, their families and friends Peaceful Heart is also a compelling reminder for therapists that behind every sanitized diagnosis or formulation is a deeply personal, painful human story. Being the first book written from the client's perspective, Martin makes an important contribution to the EMDR literature. We are all indebted to her for sharing her brave journey of healing." -- (Jim Lichti, MSW, RMFT, EMDR Internationaal Association Approved Consultant & Certified Therapist. Waterloo, Canada)

"It is a sad truth that violent rape is commonplace. Peaceful Heart, however is a remarkable book in that in direct honest language it recounts Aimee Jo Martin's passage from the friendly trusting teenager through the terror of the vicious assault and the ensuing years of emotional pain, followed by her courageous struggle to achieve her Peaceful Heart. I found myself warm to Aimee Jo and care about her efforts as they unfolded through her journal. As a clinician, I am grateful for a unique client's view of therapy and the EMDR technique." -- (David S. Hart, PhD. Past President EMDR Association of Canada)

"Aimee Jo Martin's story of her rape and recovery is truly extraordinary and inspiring. She gives a name and a face to the millions of women victim/survivors who know what it is to be brutally sexually assaulted and have to live in its aftermath. Aimee Jo exposes her very personal journal and account of an incredibly cruel rape and her relentless pursuit of her own healing. It is a testament to the survivor she is. Aimee Jo will clearly contribute to others' healing and provide tremendous understanding to those who care about sexual assault survivors. Her courageous and remarkable journey to find and create her own "Peaceful Heart" is one of empowerment, hope and healing." -- (Sara McMillan, Licensed Counselor and Advocate)