Devout

Losing My Faith to Find Myself

De: David Archuleta, Paula Abdul - introduction

Narrado por: David Archuleta

Featuring three new songs from David Archuleta making their exclusive debut on this audiobook!

A raw and powerful coming-out story from the beloved American Idol finalist traces David Archuleta’s journey from closeted Mormon teen to global pop star to openly queer man, revealing the hidden pressures of fame, the weight of religious expectations, and the courage it takes to live authentically.

At just seventeen, David Archuleta rose to national fame as the runner-up on American Idol season seven, captivating millions with his angelic voice. Behind the scenes, however, he was struggling with a truth he feared would destroy everything: he was attracted to men—and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In Devout, David takes you inside his deeply personal journey as a closeted Mormon teen turned international pop star, torn between faith, fame, and identity. From dealing with the pressures of being on a hit television show to a domineering father who controlled every aspect of his career—even being banned from the show’s set—David reveals the emotional abuse and inner turmoil that he says plagued his childhood.

This searing memoir reflects on David’s ventures with American Idol, a tour with Demi Lovato, and a two year sabbatical as a missionary in South America, charting his path through heartbreak, estrangement, three engagements, thoughts of suicide, and finally, his courageous decision to leave the Mormon Church in order to live authentically as a queer man. Featuring never-before-seen photos, Devout is a must-read for fans of pop culture, American Idol, and anyone deconstructing their religious upbringing, or who’s ever wrestled with who they are versus who they’re told to be.

Narrated by the author, the audiobook features three new songs coinciding with themes from his memoir—"On Purpose," "Old and Young," and "Stay"—that David was inspired to cowrite along his journey and performs for the very first time only on the audiobook of Devout!

Explores the Dangerous Effects of Familial and Religious Abuse So Well

35 years of someone's life, listening at normal speed...and it's still engaging the entire time?! It felt bittersweet when it was over because I was so immersed in David's story, You can hear the emotion, the tiny hiccups in the audio recording... all authentic to David. While he did touch on the shitty aspects of the music industry, I was surprised there wasn't more related to how David's label tried to shape his image. Not saying that's a bad thing. He DEFINITELY went there when it came to giving the scoop on American Idol behind-the-scenes, the plague that is the media, and meeting celebrities (if that's what you're looking for). I really recommend doing a deep dive on David content from pre-Star Search to now, because hearing about his trauma directly from him and understanding exactly how it translated into his behavior --- as an outsider looking in --- is such an experience. The songs at the end made me cry, especially knowing there was a chance we would never see/hear David's story brought to light. I am so glad he's chose to be here. Listen to this book!

Deeply poignant

David told his story on a very heartfelt way. He is a great storyteller and I felt his emotions on every word.

I am so proud of you David and congratulations!!!

Thank you for this gift of a memoir!

As a former Mormon who identifies as queer this book gives a voice and clarity to so many people experience.

Honesty

I loved this book. It reminded me that we all have a story to tell. What we see on the outside is not always what’s going on in the inside. I loved David’s raw truth telling style. I watched him grow up and have always loved his music. It was refreshing. As an x-LDS person I could totally relate to not living your true authentic self until leaving the church.

So vulnerable and raw

It was so lovely hearing David’s story. So vulnerable and raw. I hope that it speaks to the people who need to listen.