This series is NoT an easy read. It deals with domestic violence and that by a Pastor ( remember walking into a garage doesn't make you a car) and the murder of a child and about 2/3 of the way through this last book I just wanted to slap the main character but it got better. Another hard thing was the fact that it almost seemed that it was condoning the violence but it didn't in the end. It was well written but it isn't a series I would read again because the subject matter was just too hard too disturbing, that being said I would definitely would try another book by the author as long as the subject matter wasn't this heavy. I must admit that I wasn't fortunate enough to read Daisy Chain or Slow Burn, books 1 & 2 in the Defiance Texas Trilogy. But, even though I was a tad confused (DeMuth talked about a few things from the previous two books) I still loved this book. Mary DeMuth has a truly seasoned talent to put forth a soul-capturing, powerfully riveting story. Life in Defiance's story line is one that will grip your heart and really try to tear apart. It will leave you wanting to scream at Ouisie Pepper and her husband. But, it will also leave you falling to your knees in powerful prayer for this family, as if they were real. They felt real. I won't go into too much detail for fear of spoilers, but I totally felt Ousie's pain through out this story. It was truly real to me. And through this story, a lesson of telling the truth will set you free is strong. Ouisie was a woman who endured terrible heartache and struggles with secrets, all the while wondering what's it worth. While I can't say that I have been through what the characters in this story have been through, I can say that I can relate to some of the characters in here because I often questioned myself with some of the same questions they did. I felt all the tears and hurt that these amazingly created characters felt. They will be with me in a special bond for a long time to come. So, would I recommend this book? Oh yeah. Is it a 5 star book? DEFINITELY! It will take you on a roller coaster of emotions. However, while this book was truly powerful to me as a book read by itself, it would be even more powerful read in the series, I am sure. Please read this amazing book TODAY!!!
What do You think about Life In Defiance (2010)?
4 1/2..enjoyable read though Jed's perspective in book 1 is still my favorite.
—Taybear
I really enjoyed this series. It provided mystery, faith, and honesty.
—Laurie
