**** Mary Ruth lives in Southern California, with strong roots in Oklahoma. She is the author of "Tishomingo", which is nationally recognized for its historical portrayal of Indian Territory before Oklahoma statehood. Her sequel to "Tishomingo" Is titled: "Return to Okla Chuka." This book picks up where the first book leaves off. Mary Ruth's other Native American works include "Native American Recipes" and "Willow Flower's Gift" - a story of how an old woman's unselfish gift preserved her tribe's unique beading method. Mary Ruth's four Native American books have been accepted into the Sequoyah National Research Center for Native American Studies. Bill Anoatubby, Governor of the Chickasaw Nation, and Oklahoma Historian, Bob Burke endorsed TISHOMINGO with favorable reviews. “Although a work of fiction, Mary Hughes’ book shows some of the problems and challenges which faced the Chickasaw people around the turn of the 20th century. It should be enjoyable reading for anyone.” Bill Anoatubby, Governor of the Chickasaw Nation “Tishomingo is historical fiction at its best. The joys and hardships endured by the Chickasaws come through the love story loud and clear. The author’s attention to historical fact is worthy of recognition. This is a wonderful preservation of Chickasaw heritage.” Bob Burke, Oklahoma historian, The Oklahoman Mary Ruth is presently working on TISHOMINGO book three, "Hurricane", Mahli Isto (Chicksaw word for hurricane.) due to be released in 2022. Mary Ruth is also the author of six children's books portraying whimsical characters of Halloween. Several years ago, Mary Ruth compiled her grandmother's memoirs into "Memories of a Farmer's Daughter". Jennie Robbins grew up in Arkansas, married W.I. Phelps from Indian Territory and lived the rest of her life on a ranch outside of Tishomingo, (I.T) Oklahoma. She was still living on the ranch at 98 years old when she died. In 2019, Mary Ruth won first place in prose for her article, “A Purse Full of Secrets” which was published in the High Desert Branch of the California’s Writer’s Club anthology “On The Lighter Side”. Mary Ruth has a total of eleven published books of various genres, two published stories in the High Desert Writer’s Club Anthologies and she collaborated with Roberta Smith (HDCWC member) on a screenplay titled: “Bereaved” in 2021. Mary Ruth’s books can be purchased on Amazon.com or MaryRuthHughes.com. Mary Ruth is the mother of four grown children, sixteen grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren. She is a member of the High Desert Branch of the California Writer’s Club, Mohahve Historical Society, Professional Women’s Resource Connection, and On Topic Speakers.