Meet the Author
Steve Clark, Ph.D., is a retired university professor with a distinguished background in immunology and cancer research. Throughout his career, he taught medical and graduate students, chaired several executive-level academic committees, and directed an NIH-funded Ph.D. program. However, life took a drastic turn when Steve was arrested and experienced firsthand the realities of the criminal justice system. What followed was a journey that would profoundly reshape his understanding of humanity, faith, and redemption. Today, Steve continues to write, speak, and advocate for compassion and awareness in how society views those who have faced incarceration.
About the Book
A Past That Lies Before Me is a gripping memoir that takes readers inside the walls of the U.S. justice system through the eyes of a once-accomplished professor whose world is turned upside down. From the moment of arrest to his time behind bars, Clark paints a vivid, unflinching picture of what he calls the ‘Entanglement System’—a web of punishment, indifference, and incoherence. Yet, he also found surprising moments of grace. The memoir is not only about loss and accountability but also about the unexpected blessings and connections that emerged from the most unlikely places. It’s an introspective and redemptive story that invites readers to see humanity even where it is too often overlooked.
Inspiration Behind the Book
Clark began writing A Past That Lies Before Me as a form of personal therapy while grappling with depression, PTSD, and the aftermath of his conviction. Encouraged by his psychologist and psychiatrist, he used writing to process his emotions and make sense of his experience. The book was born from a desire to tell the truth about what happens inside jails and to challenge misconceptions about justice and rehabilitation. Drawing inspiration from Oscar Wilde’s De Profundis—a work written during Wilde’s own imprisonment—Clark borrowed the sentiment that a person’s past remains forever before them, shaping who they are but not defining who they can become.
Why Readers Love It
Readers are drawn to A Past That Lies Before Me because of its honesty, vulnerability, and unexpected hope. It has been described as ‘a humbling memoir of accountability, justice, and grace’ that balances raw emotion with intellectual reflection. Clark’s background as a scientist and educator brings clarity and structure to a deeply emotional narrative, while his spiritual re-awakening provides warmth and redemption. Readers appreciate that the book doesn’t just recount a fall from grace—it shares a journey of faith, forgiveness, and resilience.
Who Should Read It
This memoir is ideal for readers who are drawn to stories of personal transformation, social justice, or sustaining faith. It will resonate deeply with those interested in the human side of the criminal justice system, as well as fans of memoirs like Orange Is the New Black and Man’s Search for Meaning. It’s also well suited for book clubs, church groups, and social science readers who value authentic storytelling that explores redemption and human dignity.
Looking Ahead
Steve Clark continues to write and share his insights through public speaking, and online and print essays. His next major project explores the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspective of a scientist and educator, examining how truth, communication, and ethics intersect in times of crisis. He also remains engaged with prisoner re-entry programs and faith-based outreach, continuing the message of grace and renewal that defines his work.
Where to Find It
A Past That Lies Before Me is available in paperback, hardback and eBook formats through major retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Ingram, OverDrive, and Baker & Taylor. Readers can also connect with Steve Clark online through his author website and social media channels for updates, events, and reflections related to his writing and advocacy work.
Have you written a book that you’d like to publish?
Connect with a Publishing Consultant today to learn how Outskirts Press can help YOU publish YOUR masterpiece:
- Call 1-888-672-6657
- Live Chat at OutskirtsPress.com
- Schedule a free consultation
Outskirts Press stands behind our book printing and design services with the best 100% Satisfaction Guarantee in the self-publishing industry.
This author purchased the Virtual Book Tour marketing option, which allows self-publishing authors to connect with bloggers and harness the power of the blogosphere by taking their book on the “virtual road.”
