After Sexual Trauma

After Sexual Trauma, Camille Cates (New Growth Press, 2025)

Having previously read another of Cates’ books, Moving Forward after Abortion, I was already aware of her compassionate and gospel-focussed approach. Her vulnerable honesty about her own experiences gives her unique credibility to write both books.

This one is in a similar format, with each chapter addressing common questions, including:

• Did that really happen? 
• Was it my fault? 
• Why me? Am I damaged beyond repair? 
• How can I trust again? 
• Will justice be done? 

Cates wants readers to know that their trauma experiences are understood, seen and recognised. Biblical accounts expound the points, mostly sourced from the Old Testament, such as Hagar, Dinah, Tamar and Joseph, all of whom were awfully mistreated by others, but seen and cared for by God. She then leads the reader to see how Christ is the one who truly understands, knows, heals, and redeems. For the Christian who wants to find their comfort in God’s work and promises, there is much here that is helpful. She explains some of the physiological, psychological and emotional impacts of trauma. She is honest about the failings of the criminal justice system and is clear that churches cannot handle these things alone; they must bring in civil authorities.

While there is much here that is of great benefit, I had two hesitations.

• Deut 22:25-27 was used to prove that a woman who has been assaulted is not at fault. However, Deut 22 also addresses other circumstances, including stoning a woman who is not a virgin, and requiring a man to marry the woman he has raped. Those who look up the passage may find they are more confused and less comforted. 
• Chapter 2 focuses on Dinah’s rape (Gen 24). Most comments were helpful: highlighting the power imbalance (he was a ruler), his attempts to downplay it, her brothers’ outrage and retribution. Yet, oddly it was used as an example against victim-blaming. There is no victim-blaming in the passage, but Cates refers to a 300-year-old commentary that does (Matthew Henry’s, published 1706). There would have been simpler ways to talk about victim-blaming, without making such an outdated link. 

Despite the above, this is a supportive resource that will provide help and comfort to victim-survivors while encouraging them to find their true value, worth and healing in Christ. 

“This journey towards healing and renewal after sexual trauma begins with seeking…the God who not only sees your past and present suffering but also holds your future. You are not unseen. You are not alone… God sees you and is ready to meet you where you are - to comfort you, restore you, and lead you into the future he has planned for you.”

I received an ecopy of this book in exchange for a honest review.