Author, aspiring photographer, triathlete… that’s Mary DeMuth. She writes amazing books, enjoys taking pictures, and trains for mini triathlons in her spare time. She wanted to be a doctor when she grew up, but instead has become an award-winning author. She’s considering venturing into the world of young adult or teen fiction to take on the topics of identity, authenticity, beauty, and abandonment, so you know I’ll be keeping my eye on that.
For the time being, she’s just finished book three in the Texas Trilogy: Life in Defiance. Her goal as a writer is “to write and tell stories in such a way that readers find healing and no longer feel alone.” Isn’t that a fantastic mission? She certainly tackles some hard issues in her latest novel, from abuse, violence, forgiveness, even murder.
I’ll admit that the first night I picked up her book, I was reading until 2 am. It had me on the edge of my seat until I finally had to give in and get some sleep. Bad idea. I woke from a horrible nightmare two hours later. So, word to the wise, don’t read this right before going to bed! Actually, I’m a little oversensitive to outside influence from media, either movies or books, so I’m usually careful not to watch or read anything that might make its way into my dreams. Guess it’s kudos to Mary that her book was that impactful that it became real to me.
Anyway, I finished the book last night… no bad dreams (smiley face). It was a powerful story of growth, trust, love, and redemption. The twist at the end surprised me… usually I can figure out the plot about two chapters in, but not this time. I kept reading because I couldn’t figure it out.
When asked what she hoped readers would take away from the book, this was her response, “That you may encounter Jesus in outcasts. It’s not always the folks who promote themselves as believers who truly walk as Jesus did. Jesus comes in distressing disguise. Will we miss Him?”
If you’re looking for a great summer read, a little escape and inspiration, I definitely recommend Mary’s new book, Life in Defiance.
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