Sketches from the Heart of a Texas Artist - a reader's opinion
an illustrated novel by Margaret Elizabeth Hulse
Sketches from the Heart of a Texas Artist is a creative response to the pain and suffering that occurs as a result of sexual abuse. This story shines a light on the aftermath of the wreckage, on the introspective journey one must embark upon in efforts to overcome the darkness that lingers long after the abuse occurs. It shines a light on what happens to our sexuality after it's been used against us while shadows of despair loom over our souls, teasing and taunting us until we have no choice but to journey inward to find the path that will lead us out of darkness and into light.
The protagonist, Mona Lamar, is a jewelry designer and Dallas Design District gallery owner, whose passion and lustful vulnerability, in the wake of a series of painful events, grows with so much fervor that she is pulled by the forces of nature to overcome her greatest fears in pursuit of self-actualization. Mona accepts her Hero’s Journey with conviction and doesn’t look back. As she’s chased by her shadow of despair, she hijacks a boat, sails through the Caribbean, falls in love, becomes entranced by an enchanted priestess, and receives instructions to return to her place of birth, New Orleans, to understand and accept her ultimate truths.
One of my favorite people, my sister, Callie Jones, an education specialist, new mother, Dallasite, and book enthusiast, was the first person to read my novel. Her opinion is extremely important to me because, as my sister, she's always going to be brutally honest. I am thrilled that she was willing to answer a few questions about my book and I'm excited to share her responses with you.
Q.
I’m so excited that you had the opportunity to read my first novel, ‘Sketches from the Heart of a Texas Artist.’ As you know, this story is a creative response to the effects of sexual abuse and as my sister, you witnessed first-hand, the journey that I personally went through after I endured a traumatic situation. From your perspective as an outsider looking in, how did Mona Lamar’s journey effect you?
A.
The description of the sexual assault made me angry. The thought that someone would treat anyone that way, really hurt my feelings for Mona Lamar. I loved that she didn’t just hide away and accept what happened to her. She went on a journey of self discovery and it was empowering to read. Some of her actions made me mad, but I had to realize that she was reacting to a huge life event. Her decisions made her feel like more of a human being than just a character in a book.
Q.
Do you think that this book can have just as much of an impact on someone who hasn’t necessarily dealt with any kind of sexual harassment or abuse?
A.
Yes. This is a powerful book. As someone who has not dealt with sexual harassment or abuse, I was able to empathize with Mona Lamar. The way the book was written felt very real and helped me have a better understanding of how much of an impact sexual assault can have on a person.
Q.
Aside from the #metoo nature of the story, what are some themes that you found compelling?
A.
I loved the love story between Mona and Antoine. I also really enjoyed the fictional history of the Texas hill country. The artwork was fun, too!
Q.
I know you mentioned that this book was a quick read. Summertime is quickly approaching. Would you say that this is a good poolside read?
A.
Definitely! It would be perfect to read by the beach with your toes in the water while drinking pina colada :)
Q.
Could you think of three words that describe the book?
A.
Exciting, empowering, honest