Cathy Smith

I am KATY

A Romance and the Healing of a Broken Spirit

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Discover the Story of the Author and Her Journey

Meet the Mind Behind the Words

Early Life

Cathy Dycus Smith was born in England, Arkansas to C.J. and Barbara (Yarberry) Dycus. Shortly after birth, they moved to the small town of Mayflower, AR where Cathy grew up around many of her aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Education

While living in Mayflower, she attended the local school from 1st grade through 12th grade. At age 23, Cathy was married and later had one daughter. At age 26, Cathy began attending the University of Central Arkansas where she graduated with honors.

Family

Cathy Dycus Smith was the first born of five children. She had four younger siblings – two sisters and two brothers. Her parents were always supportive with positive encouragement. Her mom was one to constantly say to her children, “You can do it.” Cathy Dycus married Jeff Smith, a man she labeled, “A man of velvet and steel.” He was her catalyst in pursuing her love for writing. He was the ladder she stood on as she climbed upward and overcoming many insecurities. His encouragement helped her become the lady she is today.

Writing Journey

To be near her husband, Cathy put her desk and computer in the room of their home where he worked. As his health failed, he would find topics and references for her to consider writing about.

Cathy’s first writing endeavors were small, interactive Bible Study Guides, similar to Daily Devotion booklets. As she finished writing each booklet, she would bind the pages then give the booklets to anyone who wanted one. One by one the booklets improved. She has now published three Interactive Bible Study Guides and one novel.

Faith And Gratitude

Cathy Dycus Smith became a Christian when she was eleven years old. She credits her faith in God as the sustaining power that shaped her life. Through her many tests, trials, and turmoil, today she is a happy, well-adjusted, successful lady. She has learned to be thankful for all the blessings God sent her way. Both the easy blessings and the hard ones she did not understand at the time, have made her the person God designed her to be.

Future Plans

Cathy Dycus Smith has self-published three Interactive Bible Study Guides. She has just released her novel called “I am KATY” which is a reflection of her own life. She is currently writing another novel called “Taryn” with plans to publish this fall.

Why choose the book

What's inside the book. Chapters covered

Chapter 1-3

You will meet Katy and Jacob as their courtship grows. You will view the scene prior to the wedding. Why is Katy crying?

Chapter 4-7

You will be eye-witness to the first years of Katy’s married life and through the birth of their daughter, Birdie. How did Birdie get her name?

Chapter 8-14

You will experience army-life, returning home and attending college with Jacob and Katy. Jacob, cheating his way through, graduated with a smile. Katy, determined to graduate, held a part-time job, kept her family clean and fed, and helped Jacob achieve his goals. You will be pleased to watch her graduate with honors.
Within months, Jacob abandons Katy and their daughter. Why?

Chapter 15-22

After five years, Jacob returns bringing chaos to the lives of Katy and Birdie. Jacob’s thoughts on what Birdie should know introduces fear, confusion, and strong rebellion into Birdies life. “Why are you doing these things?” Katie asked Jacob. You will feel Katy’s anger as you discover what he was saying to Birdie.

Chapter 23-32

You will meet David, a man from Katy’s past. He proves to be the love of her life. Their strong friendship becomes Katy’s support system, spiritual encourager, and her soulmate. How does David help Katy to “let go” of her insecurities, her hurts from the past, and her fear of the future? Be with Katy as she experiences David’s first kiss.

Explore the Chapters That Bring the Story to Life

book preview

Chapter Preview

Great book! Easy reading!

This book is really worth reading!! It will evoke your empathy, especially sadness and even anger at times. I like the fact that the main character is happy and healthy at the end. The spiritual aspect that God will help us through our most difficult times is a plus. Once you begin reading, you will not want to put it down!!!

Amazon Customer

True Story

Such a great, true story. Keeps you interested at all times. I really enjoyed this book, I do recommend this one.

Aundrea Tackett

Outstanding!!

This book is sooooooo good!!!! I could not put it down. Purchase and read it today. GOD always turns bad things into things of beauty.
Only if we are sensitive and wait on HIM!! Blessings to all who read it.

T C M

Thoughts and Updates.

Author's Blog

Healing Through Faith: Overcoming Life’s Trials in “I Am Katy”

Faith is often characterized as a source of light-a source to guide and strengthen people in the midst of life's

Toxic Relationship Navigation: A Lesson from Katy’s Story

Toxic relationships are often one of the most overwhelming things to face, usually draining and making one feel unvalued, or

Motherhood Against All Odds: A Lesson from Katy’s Resilience

Motherhood is a journey of love, sacrifice, and unrelenting determination. For Katy, the protagonist of Cathy Dycus Smith's *I Am

From the Author's Desk

Insights & Articles

Finding Light in Darkness: The Redemptive Themes in “I Am Katy”

Life has its valleys and mountains, those dark moments that will also test one's spirit and strength. In Cathy Dycus

Parenting with Purpose: Insights from Katy’s Journey as a Single Mother

Parenting is one of life's most rewarding yet challenging roles, and for single parents, the journey often comes with added

The Power of Resilience: What “I Am Katy” Teaches Us About Inner Strength

Resilience is the ability to rise above the challenges, adapt to adversity, and emerge stronger from life's trials. In Cathy