Desert of Dreams Series · Book 3 · Misty’s story
Embrace the Truth
Some truths demand courage. Sometimes love hurts more than it heals.
Book three in the Desert of Dreams Series—standalone stories of friends in a small desert town (1980s–’90s) discovering resilience, courage, and hope.
About the Book
Misty has always cared for the overlooked—lost animals, lonely neighbors, anyone who feels invisible—but at home, obedience comes first. Her father, loving when sober and calling her his “nature girl,” shares fleeting moments of peace under desert skies, but his drinking makes home unpredictable.
When Misty begins to explore her sexual identity and the people she cares about, the unconditional love she depends on disappears. Religion becomes a weapon, siblings turn against her, and the people she hopes to protect may be the very ones determined to silence her.
To seek comfort, Misty turns to the theater, her friends, and the quiet beauty of the desert, discovering that being true to herself is the only way to stand strong.
Will Misty have the courage to embrace the truth about herself, her passions, and her identity—before the cost of denial becomes too great?
Praise for Embrace the Truth
“engaging, full-bodied coming-of-age story that offers just the right blend of family and social consideration, bringing Misty’s life, times, and choices to life with astute descriptions that are embracing and thought-provoking.”
— D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
“Amanda LaPera has a talent for writing about the small and big things in life in brutally frank but heartfelt ways... paints a layered picture that feels very grounded and honest… a great read.”
— Gabriel Santos for Readers' Favorite
“has the characters I want to read about, real and complex… exceptional characterization and witticism in the dialogue… excellent prose… symbolism is profound… teaches readers to reject shame and honor their inner compass.”
— Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
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Book Details
Publisher: Adamo Press
BISAC Codes
- YAF011000 YOUNG ADULT FICTION / Coming of Age
- YAF022000 YOUNG ADULT FICTION / Girls & Women
- YAF031000 YOUNG ADULT FICTION / LGBTQ+ (formerly Young Adult / Young Adult Fiction / LGBT)
Content Note
Books in the Desert of Dreams Series address sensitive but important topics, including bullying and peer pressure; homophobia; troubled family, friendship, and romantic relationships; divorce; religion; racism and classism; historical events of the late 1980s and 1990s; death; neglect and abuse; trauma; drugs, alcohol, and sex; teen pregnancy; abortion; and mental illness, including depression, suicidal ideation, PTSD, and anxiety.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or is in crisis, please reach out for help. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Reader Resources
Discussion Questions
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