Some stories transcend time, echoing messages of strength, love, and empowerment. Layer Upon Layer, a novel by DeeDee Horton, is one such story—one that not only challenges societal norms but also serves as a testament to the enduring power of love and legacy.
DeeDee, a Division I athlete and coach, dedicated her life to empowering women and breaking gender stereotypes. She wrote Layer Upon Layer to shed light on the challenges women face in sports and society, challenging the male savior trope and highlighting the importance of mentorship. However, before she could share her work with the world, she passed away from an inoperable brain tumor. In an act of profound devotion, her husband, David Horton, took on the task of completing her novel, ensuring her voice would continue to inspire generations.
At its core, Layer Upon Layer tells the story of Sam, a young woman who grows up in a community that tries to suppress her passion for basketball. With the guidance of a mentor, she perseveres, later becoming a college coach and mentoring young women to embrace their potential. But as she uplifts others, Sam realizes she has been neglecting her own journey of self-acceptance. The novel masterfully peels back the layers of personal growth, societal expectations, and the unconscious biases women navigate daily.
David Horton, a retired oncologist, found himself on a transformative journey while completing DeeDee’s novel. Coming from a traditionally male-dominated world, he gained new perspectives on the challenges women face—both in sports and in life. Through Layer Upon Layer, he hopes to share DeeDee’s message of resilience, empowerment, and the importance of breaking barriers.
This book is for everyone—athletes who resonate with Sam’s struggles, men who wish to better understand the female experience, and women who seek inspiration in their own journeys. It is a story that reminds us of the power of mentorship, perseverance, and the legacy we leave behind.
By sharing DeeDee’s words with the world, David ensures that her story—and the stories of countless women like Sam—continue to inspire, challenge, and ignite change. Layer Upon Layer is more than just a novel; it is a movement, a call to recognize and celebrate the strength of women in every arena of life.
