Some truths demand courage. Sometimes love can hurt more than it heals. 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 when he's cruel and unpredictable, the world feels unsafe. Her family and faith demand conformity, and questioning them could shatter everything. 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 hurt 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? Book three in the Desert of Dreams Series-standalone stories of friends in a small desert town (1980s-'90s) discovering resilience, courage, and hope. Content Warning: This novel addresses sensitive topics including bullying and peer pressure; alcoholism; family conflict and rejection; domestic violence and emotional abuse; discussions of physical and sexual abuse; trauma; pregnancy loss; depression and anxiety; homophobia; religious fundamentalism and intolerance; and strong language.