“This real-life tale, as dramatic as any movie, of Stacey Lannert and her struggle to survive violent sexual assault and the devastating aftermath raises intense issues of crime, culpability and the nature of violence and families. It’s a devastating and important subject, beautifully told.”–Naomi WolfOn July 4, 1990, eighteen-year-old Stacey Lannert shot and killed her father, who had been … father, who had been sexually abusing her since she was eight. Missouri state law, a disbelieving prosecutor, and Stacey’s own fragile psyche conspired against her: She was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life without parole.
Redemption is Stacey’s candid memoir of her harrowing childhood and the pain and protective love of her sister that led her to that horrifying night. It is also an extraordinary portrait of what happened after she found herself in prison and how she grew determined to live positively, even triumphantly, despite her circumstances. Ultimately, and most profoundly, she learned the healing power of forgiveness.
After spending as many years in prison as she had out of it, on January 10, 2009, outgoing Missouri governor Matt Blunt commuted Stacey’s life sentence. Six days later she walked out of the gates a free woman. Redemption is the story of how Stacey learned to be free while living behind bars. It is a coming-of-age story set in a parallel universe of a maximum-security prison. And, it is a story of sisterhood, courage, and justice finally served.
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This a must read, very sad in parts and maybe make you angry
Deeply moving and insightful book about abuse and redemption
not much–never finished it
Interesting story by a very good story teller. She really did a good job at looking back at her life. Hard to read bc so very sad but interesting.
Well written, informative, sad.
This is a very graphic story and definitely not for the squeamish reader. It’s heart breaking what some adults can do to young children while others either deliberately ignore the signs or just look the other way. However, the title, Redemption, is perfect, and the author is definitely inspiring in that she has chosen forgiveness and inner …
Sad subject matter.
Near the end of the book, she was 36 and was asked what she did. She said “Well, I murdered my father who sexually abused me.” Had she said these 9 words at her trial, age 18, she might not have received life in prison without parole. It took 18 years for her to be able to say them.
I am male, and my nonphysical, emotional sexual abuse from my …
Honest, authentic and well written.
im glad I bought and read this book. Couldn’t put it down. Stacey’s story was horrifying but ,ultimately she struggled and changed. It was impressive that she named and thanked everyone who helped her. A very serious story!!
Excellent, well-written and heart felt.
far too full of religious proselytism – hardly what one expects
This woman is amazing! I’m glad she has told her story. I’m sure she is helping many people.
Stacey’s life was, without a doubt, horrific and sad…. but the second half of the book dragged on and on.