Though this book is intended to speak primarily to adults who have suffered childhood sexual abuse, anyone who seeks to find meaning in suffering, or who grapples with the concepts of evil and holiness, will appreciate the truth and wisdom contained in this book. Issuing from a deep appreciation of and wrestling with scripture, A Conspiracy of Love can also empower preachers, educators, and pastoral care providers to hear the Word anew, from the perspective of one who has suffered much. In short, those who have been abused, their friends, and their ministers will find A Conspiracy of Love thought-provoking, inspirational, and a beacon of comfort and hope. Not that it is an easy read. At times the reflections lay bare both the horrific reality that some children endure, and the searing emotional and spiritual pain that is carried into adulthood. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, has described the writing as “heart-breaking and heart-enlarging.”

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WENDY READ is a minister in the United Church of Canada. In addition to her theological education, she holds a Doctorate of Philosophy in Chemistry, from Oxford University, Oxford, England. She lives in Vancouver, British Columbia.