reify press

In her book Restored: Finding Freedom from Love Addictions, Guilt, and Shame, Leslie Anderson shares that her love addiction was same-sex attraction and a 13-year gay relationship she felt powerless to leave. She describes the emotional roller coaster she lived on: experiencing great love and pain. She longed to leave many times but didn’t know if she could do it and stick to it. She was addicted to love.

Leslie’s addiction was so strong that she left her husband of ten years for this all-consuming relationship. She put everything on the line: her faith in Jesus, her Christian family and friends, and even custody of her two small children. She was a pastor’s daughter gone prodigal.

Leslie and her partner enjoyed many good things together: houses, trips to Europe, and affirmation and friendship from many in the community. They went to a ＂gay＂ church and heard many sermons that Jesus was on their side. But Leslie knew she wasn’t walking with Jesus and, most of the time, didn’t care.

However, over time, Leslie experienced a growing disillusionment with the gay community and her gay relationship. But she didn’t feel she had the power to leave. During those times, she would sometimes hear the sweet whisper of Jesus. But when she thought of leaving, questions would enter her mind: ＂Would it be worth it to follow Jesus, and can I walk faithfully with Him? Will I regret leaving gay relationships, and will I have a good life?＂

After 35 years of walking with Jesus, this book is Leslie’s answer to those questions for anyone who is at the same crossroads. Leslie shares her journey of leaving that gay relationship and coming back to a close walk with Jesus and how He has helped her live in joy and freedom.

Leslie provides a road map for those also seeking freedom, using what she has learned in her Christian walk from ministries such as Portland Fellowship, the Bible, and the input of other believers. She shares her experiences, ups, and downs, and how she learned to trust her Good Shepherd for her best life now and forever after.

If you are addicted to love or something else, she wants you to know that Jesus, your Good Shepherd, will set you free and restore your soul. She wants you to know that following Jesus will be worth it and you will never regret choosing Him.