True Colours: Lauren Huxley and her family from tragedy to triumph

by Lisa Davies

An innocent young woman, violently attacked in her family home by a total stranger and left to die. Beaten repeatedly and soaked with petrol as her home burned, Lauren Huxley's life was hanging by a thread. Lauren's battle to survive caused an outpouring of public love and support. The crime was so horrific, so senseless, anyone who read about the attack couldn't help how could I bear someone I loved to go through this? For her father Patrick, mother Christine and sister Simone it was like being plunged into hell. Doctors gave Lauren only a five per cent chance of survival. Her injuries were among the worst they had ever seen, so horrific that she was barely recognizable. But those insurmountable odds counted for little against the Huxley family's determination, courage and love. Together, they started to rebuild their shattered lives... and Lauren started coming back. This is their extraordinary story.

Genres: Biography, Audiobook, Nonfiction

339 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Kirsti · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great memoir, about a truly shocking attack that has left Lauren Huxley both physically and mentally scarred for life. I remembered parts of this crime story from the media at the time, and always felt kind of embarrassed to share the last name 'Farmer' with the low life criminal that attacked Lauren that day. Apart from that association I hadn't heard much about this case since, so it was lovely to see Lauren's progress throughout this book. I've since read a few updated articles too from the ten year anniversary.

Great for memoir/true crime readers, and a very personal and touching story. Five stars.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I lived so close to Lauren when she was attacked, just a few kms away, and spent time in Westmead Hospital guarding her whilst she clung to life in intensive care. The love and strength her family showed during that difficult time was unwavering.

It is truly amazing that this family has come so far. I must say seeing Lauren shopping at our local made me warm with pride. She has no idea just how special she is, and how lucky she is to have her wonderful family.

I am so glad this book was written.

[Olwen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Made me realise all over again how blessed my life is.

[Anne-Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a truly inspiring read!! After enduring horrific life-threatening injuries, Lauren's care team at Westmead Hospital, and especially her close-knit family and friends all enabled her to pull through and survive her brutal ordeal.

Well-written with numerous quotes from all family members as the story unfolded and a good balance was made between the family's ordeal, and the crime investigation and court proceedings.This was my first read in the true crime genre. I may be back.

I listened to an audiobook version of this book: Julie Nihill, the publican from the Aussie TV series, Blue Heelers, did an excellent job.

[Jenna Vidal · Rating 4 out of 5]

A detailed book after the attack, healing and courtcase of Lauren Huxley. Both terrifying and inspiring. I was a little bored around the middle, but otherwise the book was well paced and easy to read. I particularly found the court case very interesting and glad they dedicated a good 50 pages to it.

Worth a read if you are interested in inspiration memoirs and also don't mind when a bit of crime and medical stuff is thrown in.

[Peter Jochinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Non Fiction written in brilliant fashion by Lisa Davies.
To me it sounds like a classic case of an alcoholic Schizophrenia going into a total rage on a poor defenseless victim that gratefully God chose to save with a host of guardian angels, i.e. police fireman ambulance doctors and unlike me the book doesn't miss anyone.

[Deviki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Books I've read and provided detailed reviews over the years but all data is lost after accidental deletion and GD refuse to restore it back.

Adding books back to my library for my own reference and tracking purposes

[Penny · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful family and an inspiration to all in life. Tragedy can serve to make you stronger!!!

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good read very sad but Lauren came thru the other end a stronger woman

[Libby Sanderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s just awful what happened to Lauren but I did find it very hard to finish the book.

[Emily]

It feels weird to give a rating to a story about such a serious crime.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do remember this happening At the time and I was living in the Parramatta area so very close to home. Interesting to read this and be reminded of all the details. What a horrific story but what a strong family. If you like reading these kinds of books it's a really interesting read, I couldn't put it down.

[Lily Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, is great from a writers point of view. It is really sad. but a great book to read about how lauren, went from strengh to strengh, after the horrible thing that happened to her. I would recommend this book to everyone!:)

[Angela Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loved it!

[Carmel · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an inspirational story!