Howard Books (February 6, 2007)
Maggie Anderson is trapped by an abusive boyfriend, all alone in the midst of New York city. He controls her every move and dictates their social circles. Then before the crack of dawn one morning his car is commandeered right under her nose and she soon finds herself hours away and across state lines. Unsure what to do with this unprecedented opportunity she wanders a bit and attempts to grasp what this newfound freedom might mean for her. Eventually she runs with only the clothes on her back and a bit of change in her pocket. Fear of capture or a run-in with Kevin once again forces her into ever spiraling lies. Finally she lands in Clayburn, KS. This small town in the midst of the “prairie†introduces her to people who truly care and love her despite their own hurts and the web of lies she has woven. They see through her protective veil and wait for her to come to them when she is ready to share the truth.
In the interim she has become Meg and found her heart’s shell beginning to crack somewhere she finally feels secure. Will Kevin reappear and cause the doors to slam once again on her heart and ability to trust anyone (even God)? Can she finally risk trusting again enough to embrace the new life and new person she has the opportunity at in this idyllic setting? Will she find a love that protects and cherishes with a man who is worthy of her respect and trust? This poignant story of God’s provision and rescue from a past that is impossible to shake packs a powerful emotional force in it’s pages. This may have been my first taste of Raney’s books though it certainly won’t be the last. (ISBN# 9781582296432, 368pp, $13.00)
Codicil:
Visit Deborah’s site. Also don’t forget to click the bookcover above to purchase your own copy or read more about the book. Also be sure to pick up a copy of her other Clayburn novels as well.
