Authentic Peace: A Story of Courage, Change, Transformation & Hope

By Anne-Marie Zanzal, M. Div. | Now Available in Paperback and Kindle

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A Memoir That is Eye-Opening Inspiring and Vulnerable

Now Available on Paperback and Kindle

Authentic Peace is the debut memoir from Anne-Marie Zanzal, M.Div. She takes us through the journey of her awakening that opened her eyes to her sexual orientation. Authentic Peace is for those who feel that something is missing in their lives, and for anyone who feels a longing and is tired of waiting for it to manifest. This memoir speaks to anyone who is in a transitional life stage, whether leaving a marriage or a relationship, or those who are called to reinvent themselves. Anne-Marie’s story lends hope, guidance, and insight to those embarking on the journey to find your true, authentic self and for those seeking the courage to leave the known and familiar, in order to move toward the uncharted. Her memoir covers topics including parenting, parent-child relationships, divorce, grief, racism, politics, spirituality, religion, and more.

Anne-Marie turned her own experience into a means to help others, including becoming a coach to the later-in-life community, starting online support groups and offering one-on-one support, as well as becoming a voice in print and podcasts for those who are trying to find their true selves later-in-life. Anne-Marie has dedicated her life to building community, being present for those who are grieving a life left behind, and celebrating new beginnings, while shining a light on where self-fulfilled authenticity can lead.

Contributing Credits

Editor: Kim Cressell
Book Designer: Chelsea Fone
Photographer: Tonda McKay

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Book Reviews

This book was relatable and affirming for women going through a transition that rocks their world, especially later in life. Zanzal tells the story of her upbringing and how it translated into an adult life of living within the expected parameters of marriage, mom, community member. She describes her feeling of restlessness and something missing until she is able to embrace her true self. This is a must read, especially for anyone who discovers a disassociated, compartmentalized self that has been hidden. Zanzal tells the story of her self-discovery, the opening of Pandora’s box and the ultimate discovery of “technicolor brilliance”.

I had the opportunity to read this book before it was published and I found it so touching and relatable. Religion plays a small but key role in this book. As a non-religious person, however, I did not find it off-putting and found it to be essential to the story of Anne Marie’s coming out.

As someone who also came out late in life, I certainly wish I had a book like this while I was going through the process to know I wasn’t alone. For anyone who wants to understand large transitions late in life, this is a must read.

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