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Unmasked: Overcoming Death.

Rick Martin

A Story of Family, Faith and Forgiveness

An updated edition of Unmasked: Overcoming Death offers new reflections, post-pandemic insights, and expanded lessons on resilience, family, and faith. Featuring an afterword on healing and advocacy, this edition deepens the message of forgiveness while connecting with readers navigating life after crisis. A powerful resource for those seeking hope in the aftermath of trauma.

  Biography & Memoir   50,000 words   100% complete   3 publishers interested
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Synopsis

Unmasked: Overcoming Death, A Story of Family, Faith, and Forgiveness is a powerful and deeply personal memoir by Rick Martin, a seasoned communications professional, speaker, and survivor of a life-altering battle with COVID-19. In December 2020, at the height of the global pandemic, Rick was hospitalized for 17 days, five of which were spent on a ventilator fighting for his life. What followed was not just a physical recovery, but a spiritual awakening.

This book is more than a survival story—it is a testimony of grace under fire, a tribute to the enduring strength of family, and a guide for finding purpose in pain. Through vivid storytelling and honest reflection, Rick recounts the fear and uncertainty of his hospitalization, the unwavering faith that sustained him, and the emotional road to forgiveness that began long before the virus took hold of his body.

As readers journey through Rick’s experience, they witness how trauma can unmask hidden wounds, reveal deep-rooted resilience, and ultimately transform the heart. From ICU to introspection, Unmasked challenges us all to confront what matters most, heal what hurts deepest, and live with greater intention.

Whether you've faced personal loss, questioned your faith, or are simply searching for inspiration, Unmasked offers hope, healing, and the reassurance that even in life’s darkest valleys, you are never alone.

Sales arguments

  • COVID-19 Survivorship: As of 2024, over 200 million people worldwide have survived COVID-19, with many reporting lingering psychological, emotional, or spiritual challenges post-recovery (CDC, WHO)
  • Mental Health and Trauma Recovery: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among COVID survivors is significant—up to 30% of ICU patients experience PTSD-like symptoms (The Lancet, 2023).
  • Faith and Healing: A Pew Research study found that 29% of U.S. adults said the pandemic strengthened their personal faith.
  • Forgiveness and Family Healing: Studies in psychology (e.g., Mayo Clinic, APA) consistently show forgiveness is linked to lower anxiety, depression, and improved relationships—vital themes in the memoir.
  • Backing from influential supporters including: Public health officials, clergy, elected officials Authors, educators, and media professionals Local bookstores and libraries in Georgia ready to support future signings and speaking events

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Audience

The target audience of Unmasked: Overcoming Death, A Story of Family, Faith and Forgiveness is individuals seeking hope and healing after trauma—particularly COVID-19 survivors, faith-based readers, and those navigating family reconciliation or personal transformation.

Rick Martin

About the author

Rick Martin is a three-time Peabody Award-winning journalist, crisis communications expert, and motivational speaker. With decades of experience at CNN and top local newsrooms, Rick has led coverage of major events like the September 11 terror attacks, Beltway sniper case and Boston Marathon Bombings. Surviving a life-threatening battle with COVID-19, he now inspires others to overcome challenges through his L.A.S.E.R. strategy: Listen, Assess, Support, Execute, Respond.
A mentor and community advocate in Douglas County, Georgia, Rick also served on the board of Children’s Voice Inc. CASA. He lives in Georgia with his wife and two daughters, blending professional excellence with a commitment to service.

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  • Update #1 - Thank you Note! July 24, 2025

    Thank you sincerely for being an early pre-order subscriber for my memoir.  Please stay tuned.  The journey continues.  From self-published to signed author with Morgan …


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  • Bethany Marshall
    on July 18, 2025, 6:45 p.m.

    Congratulations Rick!

    Can't wait to see your book published!

    • Rick Martin
      on July 18, 2025, 7:22 p.m.

      Thank you so much for your time, energy and support!

  • Brenda C Martin
    on July 19, 2025, 9:05 p.m.

    Very proud of you son
    Wishing you continued success.
    Mom, Dad, Sis V

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