Cheryl Rainfield

Rainfield considers the intersections of trauma and identity in their literary work, drawing heavily from their own experiences as a survivor of childhood abuse and cult rituals. This unique perspective allows them to delve deeply into themes of resilience and empowerment, particularly through the lens of young adult fiction. Their narratives often spotlight strong female and LGBTQ+ protagonists who navigate through and overcome adversities such as abuse, dissociation, and societal rejection. Through emotionally charged and suspenseful storytelling, Rainfield crafts tales that not only address difficult topics but also resonate deeply with readers seeking understanding and validation.\n\nIn the book "Scars," a narrative centered on a girl grappling with the aftermath of abuse, Rainfield’s personal experiences are reflected with a raw authenticity that has garnered significant recognition, including being named a Bank Street College Best Book of the Year. While "Hunted" explores paranormal themes within a cult setting, drawing directly from Rainfield’s life, "Stained" presents a suspenseful journey of survival and self-discovery. These stories are crafted with the intent to offer hope and a sense of empowerment, particularly for marginalized and traumatized youth, making their work a profound resource for readers who find solace and strength in narratives of healing and self-acceptance.\n\nBeyond their books, Rainfield’s work has earned critical acclaim from various literary publications for its empathetic engagement with readers. As a nonbinary lesbian author, their commitment to breaking the silence around abuse and advocating for representation is evident both in their writing and public engagements. Therefore, readers who connect with themes of trauma recovery and empowerment will find Rainfield’s narratives not only compelling but also transformative, offering both insight and hope through the struggles faced by their characters.