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Table of Contents
About The Book
Standing Up invites you on an exhilarating journey with a woman who refuses to be defined by her scars. A pulse-pounding chronicle of survival against all odds, this memoir takes readers along on a plunge into the chilling depths of abusive relationships.
At the tender age of twenty-three, Mary Sweeney-Devine unwittingly stumbled into the clutches of her abuser, igniting anguish and despair. With each heart-wrenching trial, including a hospital visit, she unearthed a reservoir of resilience she didn’t know she possessed. But just when she thought she had weathered the storm, a second marriage to a recovering alcoholic unleashed a tempest of secrets and unforeseen challenges.
Yet Devine emerged from the darkness, fueled by an unyielding determination and a fierce spirit. With the help of unexpected allies, determination, and a sprinkling of humor, she navigated the treacherous terrain of her past—and reclaimed her life with courage. Offering hope to those ensnared in the vicious cycle of abuse, Standing Up is a riveting testament to Devine’s indomitable spirit and a gripping saga that will leave you breathlessly rooting for the victory of the human heart over adversity.
Product Details
- Publisher: She Writes Press (May 6, 2025)
- Length: 256 pages
- ISBN13: 9781647428860
Raves and Reviews
“Raw, real, and relatable, this book is the ideal read for fans of Tara Westover’s Educated and Cheryl Strayed’s Wild. Standing Up charts the author’s harrowing but inspiring journey from domestic abuse survivor to police detective, committed to helping women find the light in their own lives."—Elizabeth Ridley, author of Searching for Celia and coauthor of Saving Sadie: How a Dog That No One Wanted Inspired the World
“Standing Up is a story of hope and resilience that reminds us of our power to make a difference in another’s life. Devine captures her lived experience and depicts the trauma that too many people experience in private. Her unvarnished style exposes pain and struggle and provides insight into the issues that trap so many.”—Mariann Kenville-Moore, MSW, DVS, Director of Advocacy & Policy, Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence
“Standing Up invites the reader to join Devine on a personal journey through the crucible of domestic violence and her emergence of strength and enlightened perspective on one of law enforcement’s most challenging issues.”—John L. Cunningham, retired New Castle County Chief of Police
Resources and Downloads
High Resolution Images
- Book Cover Image (jpg): Standing Up eBook 9781647428860