What happens when the pain you spent a lifetime trying to outrun becomes the exact foundation for your life’s true calling? In her raw, deeply personal memoir, Pretty Suffering, author Marlana Adams Cherry delivers an unflinching look at trauma, spiritual rebirth, and the transformative power of faith.
Set against the gritty backdrop of Jersey City, Cherry’s narrative exposes the painful realities of growing up amidst trauma, abuse, and addiction. For years, she found herself caught in destructive relationship cycles—walking a path that felt eerily similar to the generation before her. Yet, where many stories end in resignation, Cherry’s takes a radical turn toward redemption through an encounter with God.
What distinguishes Pretty Suffering from standard inspirational memoirs is its authenticity. Cherry does not shy away from the dark chapters of her journey; instead, she demonstrates how God can salvage and repurpose even the most discarded parts of a person’s life. It serves as both a personal recount of survival and a roadmap for anyone feeling trapped by their past. Cherry’s narrative stands as a powerful reminder: no matter how deeply ingrained the pain may feel, your story is far from over. True healing and redemption are always within reach.
Endorsements:
“Marlana is an extraordinary servant in God’s family. I was amazed when I first heard her story. She is an inspiring example of overcoming a very difficult youth, as she courageously shares in Pretty Suffering.”
– Jennifer Lambert
“I want to have copies of this book to share because it is a great testimony of God’s power to help us find hope in painful circumstances, and his ability to give us confidence when the world wants to fill us with shame and get us to hide. Marlana’s description of her abuse is just enough to make the reader feel the gravity of the experience without dwelling on details. Her honesty and transparency about wanting to look good on the outside to make up for the ugliness felt inside speaks to every woman’s heart, I believe. Best of all, she shares scripture after scripture that point to the power and goodness of God.”
– Gail Medina
“Pretty Suffering is such a powerful and encouraging read. Marlana shares her story with so much honesty and vulnerability that you can’t help but cheer for her as you see God’s hand at work through every season of her life. Her journey is a beautiful reminder that our past doesn’t have to define us and that God can bring healing, freedom, and purpose out of the deepest pain. I finished this book feeling inspired and so thankful for the incredible power of God’s redeeming love. Everyone should read this book.”
– Nickol Todd
About the author
Marlana Adams Cherry grew up in Jersey City, New Jersey, amid family instability, loss and abuse. Through her faith in God, she found a foundation of grace, perseverance and hope. For more than twelve years, she has helped raise nearly 50 children, discovering the joy of motherhood through nurturing others. Marlana and her husband, Brian, whom she met at Hampton Roads Church, have built their marriage on faith and the support of their church family. She currently works as a driver, transporting children in challenging situations. She also serves on the board of “SiStar Society Academy of Excellence,” an organization that mentors girls aged nine to 17.
