Reviews
…the (Catholic) Church’s life has come under scrutiny by the Royal Commission into the Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse at which Joan gave evidence in 2013. Her objective account of the Church’s reaction to abuse inflicted by members of its clergy was confirmed by this inquest. The reader is also able to verify her account by referring to the detailed Notes at the end of the book.
‘To Prey and to Silence’ is a thought-provoking book which gives the reader and insight into the author’s dignity, strength and perseverance; her ability to overcome a soul-destroying experience to live a fulfilling life. It emphasizes the importance of standing up for what you believe, even if it is at great cost to self and those we love. Having a loving family and good friends helped Joan to write this book and to finally find some peace. What a remarkable woman!
REVIEW BY NAN VAN DISSELL
In 2013 she (Joan) gave evidence at the Royal Commission into the Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
This book is Joan’s powerful account of her battle to be heard and finally get the justice she and so many others like her, greatly deserved.
REVIEW BY THE SENIOR
This was a very sobering read. It bewilders me that the Catholic Church still doesn’t understand the damage it does as it protects the predatory priests among its congregations and then silences those injured rather than supports them.
Mrs Isaacs has written a courageous story of her experience of sexual and emotional abuse at the hands of one priest, the psychological abuse of those who did nothing about it, and the severe damage of then silencing her for twelve years.
Read it and weep for the injured.
PAULINE (GOODREADS)
…In July, her (Joan’s) book was released to widespread acclaim.
The 505-page treatise is an astounding body of work, penned by a woman whose faith was ultimately destroyed by a brazen predator and the Catholic leaders who protect him still…
REVIEW BY SHERELE MOODY
To Prey and To Silence 