Standing Up - by Mary L Devine (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

For true-crime fans, a gripping memoir of a domestic violence survivor who becomes a police detective in the domestic violence unit and is forced to face her demons when her first major case mirrors her own violent assault.

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.

Review Quotes

"A terse, revealing, and absorbing look at a varied, complex relationship with domestic violence." --Kirkus Reviews

"Appearing with supplemental resources for domestic violence victims, Standing Up is a powerful memoir about survival, redirection, and triumph."--Foreword Clarion 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

About the Author

Mary L. Devine graduated from Wilmington University with a bachelor's degree before joining the police force, where she served in the detective unit, was promoted to sergeant, and eventually commanded the mounted patrol until her retirement in 2016. She now serves as an investigator for the State of Delaware while dreaming of her next book. Besides writing, she loves painting, swimming, hiking, and horses. Standing Up is Mary's first book. She resides in Middletown, Delaware.