When Dione Martin was a girl, she often thought about her biological father. Who was he? Did he ever think about her and wonder if she was okay?

Dione was born in New Orleans. She grew up with her African American mother and stepfather. Marin also had four siblings. When Dione was just five years old, she noticed she looked different from her brothers and sisters. She questioned her mother and discovered that her biological father was white.

"It was surprising," said Martin. "I think there was a certain level of discomfort. There was also a feeling of not being fully accepted by my stepfather."

Although her childhood was difficult, she says her mother's love and faith helped her to get to where she is today. 

Dione is now a senior communications director at Brinker International and the author of a new book, The Wool Over Their Eyes.

The Wool Over Their Eyes is based on Martin’s personal experiences. She drew upon her memories and insights of growing up without her biological father and being betrayed in her marriage to inform her narrative and give her characters depth and authenticity.

“I wrote The Wool Over Their Eyes for fatherless girls, women who have been betrayed, those who have been rejected because of their race (or otherness) and for families torn apart by secrets, lies and deception,” Martin reflects. “Healing is possible through change, empathy, faith and forgiveness.”

Today on Connections, Dione shares her story and the inspiration behind her book.