At 19 years old, Rhiannon survived a kidnapping and assault that would shape her life’s purpose.
Now an attorney and public speaker, she uses her voice to empower others—especially survivors of trauma.

Rhiannon is the author of the upcoming memoir My Beauty From Ashes, a deeply personal account of healing, identity and reclaiming one’s story. Her writing journey began with short bursts—often separated by weeks or years—but evolved into a powerful path toward healing.

In 2023, she delivered a TEDx talk titled Forgiving the Unforgivable, where she shared her perspective on trauma, recovery and forgiveness. Through her work, Rhiannon continues to advocate for mental health awareness, victims’ rights and survivor empowerment.

At 19 years old, Rhiannon survived a kidnapping and assault that would shape her life’s purpose.
Now an attorney and public speaker, she uses her voice to empower others—especially survivors of trauma.

Rhiannon is the author of the upcoming memoir My Beauty From Ashes, a deeply personal account of healing, identity and reclaiming one’s story. Her writing journey began with short bursts—often separated by weeks or years—but evolved into a powerful path toward healing.

In 2023, she delivered a TEDx talk titled Forgiving the Unforgivable, where she shared her perspective on trauma, recovery and forgiveness. Through her work, Rhiannon continues to advocate for mental health awareness, victims’ rights and survivor empowerment.

Hi, I’m Rhiannon Thoreson, author, public speaker and advocate for healing.

At 19 years old I experienced something that would change my life forever. I was kidnapped, raped and physically assaulted. In the years that followed I struggled to make sense of what happened and how to move forward.

Writing became a powerful part of that process. While telling my story wasn’t easy and sometimes meant taking breaks that lasted hours, days or even years, I discovered that putting my experience into words brought unexpected healing. After years of reflection and emotional work I’ve completed the writing phase of my memoir and am currently in editing. My book My Beauty From Ashes is set to release on October 15, 2026.

In addition to my writing I’ve shared my story on stage through a TED Talk focused on emotional intelligence and personal growth. I’ve also earned a law degree and now practice law, using my voice in a different way to support others and uphold justice.

Whether through my speaking, writing or professional work my goal is to bring hope and courage to others navigating their own path to healing.