By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

David Archuleta's memoir, "Devout: Losing My Faith to Find Myself," is a harrowing and unflinchingly honest account of his tumultuous journey from a devout Mormon upbringing to embracing his identity as a queer man. Archuleta, who first captured the public's attention as the angelic-voiced runner-up on "American Idol" at the tender age of seventeen, peels back the layers of his public persona to reveal the profound personal struggles that lay beneath.

The narrative is a relentless exposé of the oppressive forces that shaped Archuleta's early life. He recounts the suffocating grip of his domineering father, whose control extended to the point of being banned from the "American Idol" set due to his overbearing nature. The emotional abuse and manipulation he endured are laid bare, painting a stark picture of a young man trapped in a web of familial and religious expectations. ([books.apple.com](https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/devout-unabridged/id1826451701?utm_source=openai))

Archuleta's internal conflict is palpable as he grapples with his faith and sexuality. The memoir delves into his experiences with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, highlighting the immense pressure to conform to its doctrines. His candid discussion of contemplating suicide rather than confronting his true self is both heartbreaking and infuriating, underscoring the toxic environment that forced him into such despair. ([arcamax.com](https://www.arcamax.com/entertainmenttoday/s-4014368?utm_source=openai))

The book also sheds light on the exploitative nature of the entertainment industry. Archuleta's rise to fame was marred by manipulation and a loss of autonomy, as he was molded into an image that pleased others while erasing his own identity. His account of choosing to sleep in his car despite his success is a damning indictment of the industry's failure to protect its young talents. ([tasteofreality.com](https://tasteofreality.com/david-archuleta-homeless-american-idol-devout/?utm_source=openai))

While the memoir is a testament to Archuleta's resilience and eventual self-acceptance, it is also a scathing critique of the systems that sought to suppress him. His decision to leave the Mormon Church and live authentically is portrayed not as a triumphant escape, but as a necessary act of survival. The inclusion of three new songs in the audiobook version adds a poignant layer to his story, offering a musical reflection of his journey. ([books.apple.com](https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/devout-unabridged/id1826451701?utm_source=openai))

In conclusion, "Devout" is a raw and unvarnished narrative that exposes the dark underbelly of fame, familial control, and religious oppression. Archuleta's story is a crucial reminder of the importance of authenticity and the devastating consequences of denying one's true self. This memoir is not just recommended; it is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of identity and the courage it takes to break free from imposed constraints.

Recommendation: Essential reading!

written on: 2/26/2026