New Book in the Works by author Mary Leoson!

MT Open Press is excited to announce its newest book is available as an ebook (epub) with paperback, hardcover, and PDF coming soon.

The work of fiction, Devil's Oak, is a short story collection that features strong female characters against a backdrop of ghosts, fairy tales, and urban legends. The thirteen stories subvert the historical narrative of women in need of rescue, positioning them as bold and willing to step into danger. They are flawed, real, and wholly beautiful. The collection exemplifies the author's journey as a writer, from works previously produced years ago to those written more recently. The stories are divided into three sections: Maiden, Mother, and Crone. Each section symbolizes a phase of a woman’s life, exploring common overarching themes that reflect our collective unconsciousness. Some of these women mirror parts of the author, but most have emerged from the ethers of the universe, begging to be born onto the page. 

**Foreword written by fiction writer, Christopher Barzak. The book has been externally reviewed and published as open access (free PDF) and print-on-demand (epub, paperback, hardcover) as of October 2025. Official press release.**