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A Thousand Sleepless Nights
A family torn apart by neglect and hurt... And brought together again by a most unlikely force In the 1970s, escaping a home where he knew nothing but violence and hate, Jim Harding found work, and love, on the largest horse ranch in Virginia. The object of his affections, Nena St. Claire, is the daughter of the owner, a man who ruled his ranch with an iron fist and would do whatever it took to keep Nena and Jim apart. Against the wishes of her family, Nena marries Jim, and after her father dies, she sacrifices everything--including her family--to keep the ranch alive. Now their three grown children have lives of their own and want nothing to do with Nena. She was never the mother they needed. When cancer strikes and Nena is given a devastating diagnosis, can Jim reconcile the family before it is too late?
304 pages, ebook
First published October 1, 2012
6 people are currently reading
335 people want to read
About the author
Michael King
2 books13 followersMichael King is a pen name for Mike Dellosso, author of numerous novels of suspense, including Darkness Follows, Darlington Woods, and Scream. Mike is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and is a popular conference and workshop teacher. He earned his BA degree from Messiah College and his MBS from Master's International School of Divinity. He lives in Hanover, PA, with his wife and daughters. Mike is also a survivor of colon cancer, diagnosed in 2008.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 30, 2013
It took me a while to get around to reading "A Thousand Sleepless Nights." Not because I didn't want to read the story, because I'd been looking forward to reading it since it was first announced. Not because the author wrote it under a pseudonym and in a genre different from what he usually publishes. I procrastinated for one reason, and one reason only.
Cancer.
We all know someone cancer has touched. Family members, friends, friends of friends. Cancer survivors have some of the best testimonies to tell of God's faithfulness in the midst of the battle. And there are those who have lost the battle after fighting valiantly for months and years. Michael King knows the battle intimately, having survived himself. But this story isn't about the cancer that invades the body so much as it is the "cancer" that eats and destroys family -- misplaced priorities and neglect.
The story of Jim Harding and Nena St. Claire is the stuff soap operas have thrived on (in a good way) for decades. Jim is a hard-working young man from the figurative wrong side of the tracks who ends up falling for Nena, the daughter of the owner of the horse ranch where Jim has found employment. Nena is engaged to the son of another ranch owner, and their union is destined to create a new empire. The backstory of how Jim and Nena met and fell in love is told in flashbacks as the reader faces the crises in the present: the horse ranch that has fallen on hard times, Nena's cancer, and children who don't necessarily have good memories of their mom and are having troubles of their own.
Ultimately, however, the book is about love and forgiveness and being willing to make amends while there is time to do so. And that alone is reason to recommend the book.
Cancer.
We all know someone cancer has touched. Family members, friends, friends of friends. Cancer survivors have some of the best testimonies to tell of God's faithfulness in the midst of the battle. And there are those who have lost the battle after fighting valiantly for months and years. Michael King knows the battle intimately, having survived himself. But this story isn't about the cancer that invades the body so much as it is the "cancer" that eats and destroys family -- misplaced priorities and neglect.
The story of Jim Harding and Nena St. Claire is the stuff soap operas have thrived on (in a good way) for decades. Jim is a hard-working young man from the figurative wrong side of the tracks who ends up falling for Nena, the daughter of the owner of the horse ranch where Jim has found employment. Nena is engaged to the son of another ranch owner, and their union is destined to create a new empire. The backstory of how Jim and Nena met and fell in love is told in flashbacks as the reader faces the crises in the present: the horse ranch that has fallen on hard times, Nena's cancer, and children who don't necessarily have good memories of their mom and are having troubles of their own.
Ultimately, however, the book is about love and forgiveness and being willing to make amends while there is time to do so. And that alone is reason to recommend the book.
March 3, 2015
A Thousand Sleepless Nights by Michael King is a wonderful story. It is about a family that is broken. It is about a woman's struggle with cancer. It is about what happens to the woman, the man who loves her and her children as she faces a very aggressive cancer.
This story is so realistic, and it's a wonderful story because the characters and the issues they are dealing with could happen to anyone. Therefore, the reader becomes captivated from the very beginning. The story made me laugh and made me cry, and I always say those are the best stories. They are the stories I always remember the most about.
The book was well-written. The characters were rich and believable and I began to care about them from the beginning. Not only did I begin to care about the characters from the beginning, but I could feel the hurt and pain that each of them was dealing with. I could relate to these characters, not to the woman with cancer, as I have not had to face that, but some of the issues her children were dealing with were definitely things I could relate to, things I had dealt with in my life, either directly or indirectly. The dialogue was believable and realistic. Mr. King did a great job describing the setting and the scenes just enough to give me the information I needed, to feel as though I were there, but not too much as to make the story feel bogged down.
In my opinion, this book has something for everyone. To watch how the characters dealt with the issues they faced was inspiring and thought-provoking. I think I would re-read this book if I ever faced cancer. I recommend this book to anyone who has faced, is facing, or knows someone who has faced or is facing cancer. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading realistic stories with believable characters and resolution.
This story is so realistic, and it's a wonderful story because the characters and the issues they are dealing with could happen to anyone. Therefore, the reader becomes captivated from the very beginning. The story made me laugh and made me cry, and I always say those are the best stories. They are the stories I always remember the most about.
The book was well-written. The characters were rich and believable and I began to care about them from the beginning. Not only did I begin to care about the characters from the beginning, but I could feel the hurt and pain that each of them was dealing with. I could relate to these characters, not to the woman with cancer, as I have not had to face that, but some of the issues her children were dealing with were definitely things I could relate to, things I had dealt with in my life, either directly or indirectly. The dialogue was believable and realistic. Mr. King did a great job describing the setting and the scenes just enough to give me the information I needed, to feel as though I were there, but not too much as to make the story feel bogged down.
In my opinion, this book has something for everyone. To watch how the characters dealt with the issues they faced was inspiring and thought-provoking. I think I would re-read this book if I ever faced cancer. I recommend this book to anyone who has faced, is facing, or knows someone who has faced or is facing cancer. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading realistic stories with believable characters and resolution.
October 5, 2012
Michael King is a writer with true talent. His every word captures you and everything else around becomes silent as you get lost in the story. I enjoyed every page of this novel. Keep a box of tissues nearby!
December 29, 2012
I didn't really connect with any of the characters. I thought the ending was rushed and underdeveloped, but I think this book could be touching for many many people.
December 28, 2013
A Thousand Sleepless Nights by Michael is a deeply touching and life changing story about good intentions gone awry. Nena St. Claire, daughter of the owner of the largest horse ranch in Virginia, falls in love with a simple ranch hand. Against her father’s wishes, she breaks her engagement with a wealthy family and marries the ranch hand. After her father dies of cancer, she inherits the immense debts of the ranch and to the detriment of her young family pours her life and her heart into trying to save the bankrupt ranch that she has come to love and cherish.
What starts out as a perceived selfless act turns into a nightmare that slowly but surely destroys her family. Her three children find that their mother’s love and attention are slowly being directed elsewhere in order to save the failing ranch, and they are being left to take care of each other. Nena’s husband Jim does what he can to try and make up for Nena’s lack of time and attention toward their children, but it doesn’t make up for the fact that they are losing their mother to dirt and horses.
As with anything that is neglected and left to fend for itself, the family falls apart and the children move away fully intending never to return to the ranch or their mother. Their father’s attempt to mend bridges between them and their mother while being effective at first is not enough to continue to replace the love, attention, and approval that they all desperately crave from their mother.
This story is about losing sight of the things in life that matter the most. However, it is also about the opportunity that we all have to choose to either allow things to continue the way they are being broken and hurting, or to choose to change the way things are and to bring healing and love into the lives of those that have been deeply hurt and betrayed. This story reminds us of the things in life that are worth fighting for, the people in our lives that will stick by us no matter what, and the immense influence that our family has in our lives which is why it is so vital to not lose sight of cherishing and nurturing each other.
We watch Nena’s children Barbara, Ken, and Roberta struggle as adults. They have each tried to fill the void of love, attention, and approval in their life only to be left with varying degrees of a hollow void where their mother should have occupied. They are left to grapple and wrestle with struggles and various trials that ultimately end back with their mother.
I think it’s very interesting and baffling how God uses tragedy in our lives to help steer us back on course after we have ventured off on our own. It’s just such a life changing tragedy that ends up reuniting Nena and her children. This once splintered and shattered family comes together to listen to the heartfelt and sincere apologies of their mother. Even though this is her seemingly selfish attempt to leave this earth without any regrets, it becomes a life altering exchange that saves all of her children. She is able to heal their hearts, mend their families, and give them a new beginning. She saves her family as she herself is dying. She ultimately gives up her last breaths to save the lives of her children. She has finally become the mother that she was always meant to be.
While tragedy in itself is not viewed as good or helpful, it is in most times a beacon used to get our attention in order to avoid an even greater tragedy down the road. Was it not better for Nena to bring healing to her children and leave this earth in peace then to continue to live and allow the division of her family to grow and in the end destroy them all? While we can’t escape pain and hardships that have come as a result of the fall of man in the Garden of Eden, I believe wholeheartedly that God uses our pain and hardships as a guidepost to direct and redirect us towards His good and perfect plan for our lives. While hurt and struggles are not the methods we would prefer for God to use, they are at times the best way for Him to get our attention. As it says in the song “Blessings” by Lara Story “Cause what if your blessings come through rain drops? What is your healing comes through tears? What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You’re near? And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise?” We must never think that God hates us or has neglected us whenever we go through pain and suffering in this life. Instead, we need to view it as an opportunity and a challenge to try and figure out what God is trying to tell us, what changes we need to make in our life, or how God is trying to remake us in order to be a greater example and witness to those around us.
Michael King has penned a beautifully, heart wrenching tale of pain and disappointment that he then quietly and deftly interweaves with hope and love. This story will drop you into the depths of despair and then rocket you into the heavens on the wings of grace. My heart grieved with Nena and Jim over the terrible separation of them and their children over the years. As a parent that would be the worst possible torture for me to experience as I love my children dearly and have poured my heart and soul into them. I was so thankful to find that Michael didn’t leave that as the ending of the story, but he allowed love and grace to enter which opened the doors for the healing and mending of this family to start.
I must warn you that if you are the type of reader that does not delve too deeply beneath the skin of a character to see what darkness and light lies beneath in the fear of it touching your heart; you will not want to read this story as it will dangerously move you to bouts of tears and times of joy and laughter. Michael lays open the heart of his characters and in the process lays open your own heart before you and God to closely examine and hopefully change. His characters feel like an old friend by the end of the story. They reach into your heart and leave their unique fingerprint there in the hope that you won’t forget them and in the process forget what they taught you. I loved reading this story, and am hoping to see these characters again in perhaps a continuation of this inspiring story. I am eagerly looking forward to reading many more books written by Michael King.
What starts out as a perceived selfless act turns into a nightmare that slowly but surely destroys her family. Her three children find that their mother’s love and attention are slowly being directed elsewhere in order to save the failing ranch, and they are being left to take care of each other. Nena’s husband Jim does what he can to try and make up for Nena’s lack of time and attention toward their children, but it doesn’t make up for the fact that they are losing their mother to dirt and horses.
As with anything that is neglected and left to fend for itself, the family falls apart and the children move away fully intending never to return to the ranch or their mother. Their father’s attempt to mend bridges between them and their mother while being effective at first is not enough to continue to replace the love, attention, and approval that they all desperately crave from their mother.
This story is about losing sight of the things in life that matter the most. However, it is also about the opportunity that we all have to choose to either allow things to continue the way they are being broken and hurting, or to choose to change the way things are and to bring healing and love into the lives of those that have been deeply hurt and betrayed. This story reminds us of the things in life that are worth fighting for, the people in our lives that will stick by us no matter what, and the immense influence that our family has in our lives which is why it is so vital to not lose sight of cherishing and nurturing each other.
We watch Nena’s children Barbara, Ken, and Roberta struggle as adults. They have each tried to fill the void of love, attention, and approval in their life only to be left with varying degrees of a hollow void where their mother should have occupied. They are left to grapple and wrestle with struggles and various trials that ultimately end back with their mother.
I think it’s very interesting and baffling how God uses tragedy in our lives to help steer us back on course after we have ventured off on our own. It’s just such a life changing tragedy that ends up reuniting Nena and her children. This once splintered and shattered family comes together to listen to the heartfelt and sincere apologies of their mother. Even though this is her seemingly selfish attempt to leave this earth without any regrets, it becomes a life altering exchange that saves all of her children. She is able to heal their hearts, mend their families, and give them a new beginning. She saves her family as she herself is dying. She ultimately gives up her last breaths to save the lives of her children. She has finally become the mother that she was always meant to be.
While tragedy in itself is not viewed as good or helpful, it is in most times a beacon used to get our attention in order to avoid an even greater tragedy down the road. Was it not better for Nena to bring healing to her children and leave this earth in peace then to continue to live and allow the division of her family to grow and in the end destroy them all? While we can’t escape pain and hardships that have come as a result of the fall of man in the Garden of Eden, I believe wholeheartedly that God uses our pain and hardships as a guidepost to direct and redirect us towards His good and perfect plan for our lives. While hurt and struggles are not the methods we would prefer for God to use, they are at times the best way for Him to get our attention. As it says in the song “Blessings” by Lara Story “Cause what if your blessings come through rain drops? What is your healing comes through tears? What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You’re near? And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise?” We must never think that God hates us or has neglected us whenever we go through pain and suffering in this life. Instead, we need to view it as an opportunity and a challenge to try and figure out what God is trying to tell us, what changes we need to make in our life, or how God is trying to remake us in order to be a greater example and witness to those around us.
Michael King has penned a beautifully, heart wrenching tale of pain and disappointment that he then quietly and deftly interweaves with hope and love. This story will drop you into the depths of despair and then rocket you into the heavens on the wings of grace. My heart grieved with Nena and Jim over the terrible separation of them and their children over the years. As a parent that would be the worst possible torture for me to experience as I love my children dearly and have poured my heart and soul into them. I was so thankful to find that Michael didn’t leave that as the ending of the story, but he allowed love and grace to enter which opened the doors for the healing and mending of this family to start.
I must warn you that if you are the type of reader that does not delve too deeply beneath the skin of a character to see what darkness and light lies beneath in the fear of it touching your heart; you will not want to read this story as it will dangerously move you to bouts of tears and times of joy and laughter. Michael lays open the heart of his characters and in the process lays open your own heart before you and God to closely examine and hopefully change. His characters feel like an old friend by the end of the story. They reach into your heart and leave their unique fingerprint there in the hope that you won’t forget them and in the process forget what they taught you. I loved reading this story, and am hoping to see these characters again in perhaps a continuation of this inspiring story. I am eagerly looking forward to reading many more books written by Michael King.
November 19, 2024
I'll be honest, I thought I was going to DNF this book. As soon as I started it, I realized it was going to be a very bittersweet, cancer book and that's just not the kind of book I really want to read right now.
However, a friend of mine gave it to me and so I figured I needed at least try it, so I'd give it a hundred pages.
Well...long story short, those 100 pages hooked me and I finished the whole book in 3 days.
And it was a bittersweet, cancer story. But it was a very good, well written, bittersweet cancer story. One that I would definitely recommend.
However, a friend of mine gave it to me and so I figured I needed at least try it, so I'd give it a hundred pages.
Well...long story short, those 100 pages hooked me and I finished the whole book in 3 days.
And it was a bittersweet, cancer story. But it was a very good, well written, bittersweet cancer story. One that I would definitely recommend.
May 27, 2019
This was a really good book of God's great grace and forgiveness.
August 13, 2019
3.75 stars rounded down. A lot of build up but then an abrupt ending.
October 11, 2019
First book I have read by Michael King. Excellent writer. This was a wonderful book.
May 21, 2020
Ugh. I kept waiting for it to get good. It never did. A DNF. No wonder it was on a sale table at B&N.
February 26, 2021
What a great book! Very easy read, but a tearjerker. This book will pull at the heartstrings of anyone who has been through a terminal illness or had unresolved family issues.
February 28, 2021
3.5 stars. Very predictable but still a nice story at the end.
November 8, 2014
Michael King's writing style makes this tough-as-nails work of fiction well worth reading. He uses two tiers of storytelling: one timeline is in the present where Jimmy Hutching and his wife Nena face down a diagnosis of advanced colon cancer and deal with the apathy of their adult children. The second tier is Jimmy's personal reminiscences of the past, beginning on the day he came home from school to find his father beating his mother. When he tried to protect her, his father beat him and threw him out of the house. Eventually he found work and a place to stay as a laborer on a horse ranch.
The two tiers intertwine and eventually the reader realizes that Jimmy's memories are the love story between him and Nena St. Claire, the rancher's daughter. The story is sweet but takes on an edge near the end. That part of the tale is mostly from Jimmy's perspective.
Nena Hutching wasn't all that surprised when medical tests and scans showed the presence of cancer. Her grandfather and father had both had it. But the diagnosis and treatment were still hard to cope with. She was afraid to die. The cancer was a monster, and in her dreams became someone she could not escape.
Each of the three siblings got a call from their father to tell them about their mother's cancer. None of the three wanted to visit her. The distance in her family hurt her, but Nena understood it as the natural consequences of her neglect years earlier.
"I hope you find this story not only moving and inspirational, but also deeply personal." [author Michael King] I did find this story a bit disturbing at first. There is cancer in my family and I understand the process well. I have seen it all first hand. The author writes this novel well, sets up the tension on both tiers, working it into an element of suspense, yet creates a satisfying conclusion. For me, it wasn't easy to read, not because of any problems with the book's level of interest, because it keeps the reader's attention very well, but it was a bit too personal. The story's pathos crept down deep and touched me. This book isn't one I'd pull off a bookshelf and read on my own for personal reasons, but I am glad I read it. The final scenes have the potential to bring the reader peace of heart, especially if they have gotten invested in the story emotionally.
The themes of family and reconciliation are dominant in this story. It takes awhile to reach a resolution for all the family members, and the ending may not happen in the way many of us readers want it to, but the conclusion implies there is more to come. For the Hutching family, it is simply a beginning of something better.
I enjoyed how the author expressed Jimmy's love for his Nena. His was a quiet strength that I found heart-warming and intriguing. He knew his father's tendency for violence and he was determined not to use brute strength in his own walk if at all possible. This placed him in an awkward position a few times when he needed to defend someone or himself physically. But when it came to Nena's welfare, he fought willingly for her; it was one thing she always loved about him. Now while they were fighting the cancer, he took this quiet strength to the next level which endeared him to me as a reader. I believe many other readers will admire this kind of strength in Jimmy too.
The author has a marvelous sense of timing in turning a story filled with sadness into triumph, sensitivity for subtleties in the lives of his characters, and the ability to communicate real-to-life spiritual issues in a conversational manner. I would be happy to read more of this author's books in the future.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the Booketeria on behalf of Charisma House Publishing (Realms). I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
The two tiers intertwine and eventually the reader realizes that Jimmy's memories are the love story between him and Nena St. Claire, the rancher's daughter. The story is sweet but takes on an edge near the end. That part of the tale is mostly from Jimmy's perspective.
Nena Hutching wasn't all that surprised when medical tests and scans showed the presence of cancer. Her grandfather and father had both had it. But the diagnosis and treatment were still hard to cope with. She was afraid to die. The cancer was a monster, and in her dreams became someone she could not escape.
Each of the three siblings got a call from their father to tell them about their mother's cancer. None of the three wanted to visit her. The distance in her family hurt her, but Nena understood it as the natural consequences of her neglect years earlier.
"I hope you find this story not only moving and inspirational, but also deeply personal." [author Michael King] I did find this story a bit disturbing at first. There is cancer in my family and I understand the process well. I have seen it all first hand. The author writes this novel well, sets up the tension on both tiers, working it into an element of suspense, yet creates a satisfying conclusion. For me, it wasn't easy to read, not because of any problems with the book's level of interest, because it keeps the reader's attention very well, but it was a bit too personal. The story's pathos crept down deep and touched me. This book isn't one I'd pull off a bookshelf and read on my own for personal reasons, but I am glad I read it. The final scenes have the potential to bring the reader peace of heart, especially if they have gotten invested in the story emotionally.
The themes of family and reconciliation are dominant in this story. It takes awhile to reach a resolution for all the family members, and the ending may not happen in the way many of us readers want it to, but the conclusion implies there is more to come. For the Hutching family, it is simply a beginning of something better.
I enjoyed how the author expressed Jimmy's love for his Nena. His was a quiet strength that I found heart-warming and intriguing. He knew his father's tendency for violence and he was determined not to use brute strength in his own walk if at all possible. This placed him in an awkward position a few times when he needed to defend someone or himself physically. But when it came to Nena's welfare, he fought willingly for her; it was one thing she always loved about him. Now while they were fighting the cancer, he took this quiet strength to the next level which endeared him to me as a reader. I believe many other readers will admire this kind of strength in Jimmy too.
The author has a marvelous sense of timing in turning a story filled with sadness into triumph, sensitivity for subtleties in the lives of his characters, and the ability to communicate real-to-life spiritual issues in a conversational manner. I would be happy to read more of this author's books in the future.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the Booketeria on behalf of Charisma House Publishing (Realms). I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
October 15, 2012
In Michael King’s book, A Thousand Sleepless Nights, you will experience multiple levels of emotions as the main character, Nena (St. Claire) Hutching, loses focus of her children as she struggles to save her farm, severs her relationships with her children through neglect, and is diagnosed with colon cancer, the same horrible disease that took her father and grandfather.
Though Jim, Nena’s husband, tries to convince the children to return home during her surgery and chemo, they all have excuses, some legit, some not. The estrangements and dysfunctions have kept them apart for years and hinder some of their own personal relationships.
The main story revolves around the diagnosis of cancer and its ramifications to the patient and his/her family. Since the author has actually gone through colon cancer, we are privy to the emotional, physical and spiritual battles that ravage through the mind and body of the person going through cancer, and the fears of the family as they stand around feeling helpless as they can’t change the diagnosis.
However, to offset the emotional stress of the cancer issues, the author includes the wonderfully warm story of how Nena and Jimmy came to know each other and marry. A welcome reprieve from the heaviness of the subject! It’s delightful to read, as the author has a way with words that ‘takes you there.’
The characters become special to you as you read through the book. They are as personable as anyone you may know. Their reactions are real. Their emotions touch the depth of your heart. Jimmy and Nena during their courting days help us remember the fun between young people in love. Their love and commitment during the good times and bad are lessons for all of us to learn.
This book can help family members and cancer patients to understand the depths of the disease and how it affects everyone in the family by experiencing the denial, fear of death, regrets, loneliness, hopelessness, deep love, commitment, and personal loss. But it’s also a very strong story of forgiveness and reconciliation.
The author does not leave us without Hope. He shares about the One who is aware of the dilemmas and how He works through others to comfort you. Does that always mean that your loved one won’t die? No. Healing may come through prayer, but He also helps you rest in the knowledge of eternal life on the other side as your loved one or friend puts their trust in the Lord.
Whether you have a loved one or a friend who’s going through cancer treatment, has beat it and has gone into remission, or passed away, this is an excellent book to help you comprehend and work through the issues that encompass the cancer diagnosis and its ramifications.
This ARC book was provided free by Michael King in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was exchanged.
Though Jim, Nena’s husband, tries to convince the children to return home during her surgery and chemo, they all have excuses, some legit, some not. The estrangements and dysfunctions have kept them apart for years and hinder some of their own personal relationships.
The main story revolves around the diagnosis of cancer and its ramifications to the patient and his/her family. Since the author has actually gone through colon cancer, we are privy to the emotional, physical and spiritual battles that ravage through the mind and body of the person going through cancer, and the fears of the family as they stand around feeling helpless as they can’t change the diagnosis.
However, to offset the emotional stress of the cancer issues, the author includes the wonderfully warm story of how Nena and Jimmy came to know each other and marry. A welcome reprieve from the heaviness of the subject! It’s delightful to read, as the author has a way with words that ‘takes you there.’
The characters become special to you as you read through the book. They are as personable as anyone you may know. Their reactions are real. Their emotions touch the depth of your heart. Jimmy and Nena during their courting days help us remember the fun between young people in love. Their love and commitment during the good times and bad are lessons for all of us to learn.
This book can help family members and cancer patients to understand the depths of the disease and how it affects everyone in the family by experiencing the denial, fear of death, regrets, loneliness, hopelessness, deep love, commitment, and personal loss. But it’s also a very strong story of forgiveness and reconciliation.
The author does not leave us without Hope. He shares about the One who is aware of the dilemmas and how He works through others to comfort you. Does that always mean that your loved one won’t die? No. Healing may come through prayer, but He also helps you rest in the knowledge of eternal life on the other side as your loved one or friend puts their trust in the Lord.
Whether you have a loved one or a friend who’s going through cancer treatment, has beat it and has gone into remission, or passed away, this is an excellent book to help you comprehend and work through the issues that encompass the cancer diagnosis and its ramifications.
This ARC book was provided free by Michael King in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was exchanged.
October 15, 2012
Is anything material in life worth every ounce of your focus, effort or attention? A career? A house? A hobby? How is that cost measured and paid?
In A THOUSAND SLEEPLESS NIGHTS, Mike Dellosso, writing as Micheal King examines these questions and reveals the costs that become associated.
Nena Hutchings was raised on a horse ranch, and throughout her life has wanted nothing more than to see it successful and kept in the family. To offset it's declining business, she put more and more of her time and effort into it, eventually distancing herself from her family. While there's an understanding of her desire to see success, the toll it takes on relationships matures until her heartbreaking discovery of cancer forces her to face that chasm she created and finally recognize the cost she forfeited by her ambition. Can a bridge be rebuilt?
In this book, Mike weaves his own experiences of his battle with cancer into a story that is incredibly convicting, but the story is less about the cancer that takes life and more about the cancer that kills family. But this cancer has a much simpler cure: putting off the 'this is how I was raised' and changing to this is how I know I should be.
As I read this story, I found myself in so many of its' characters; the grandchild whose father continually puts off bonding opportunity to focus on an upcoming promotion and I was in that father seeking position. I found my feelings in a daughter's ambivalence and in the husband acting as a middle-man. I found myself in the lead character as I recognized my own failings in raising my own kids.
The story flashes back and forth between the young Nena and her current self. Here we find a spirited, young, carefree girl; the woman she might have become instead grown hard and lonely by the results of her hardships, and Mike captures this perfectly telling it this way.
And that's the point of this book: pointing a finger at what we're doing and where we're at in life; revealing the chain that's been handed down to us by our own hardships. Identifying the shortcomings we face through our own misguided focus and kindling a conviction and a desire to bring change and to make that happen before it terminally affects those around us to become the burdening legacy we pass on.
So, this book comes recommended for parents and grandparents. This book is for those who feel a hurt passed down to them, and this book is for young adults who are still working out what they wish to become.
There are times God whispers to us where we feel the nudge that our priorities in life are askew and there are times God screams to us through hardship where we are forced to assess where we actually are and worry whether things can be made right. This book will definitely hold up a mirror, but in the end, which voice will you listen to?
In A THOUSAND SLEEPLESS NIGHTS, Mike Dellosso, writing as Micheal King examines these questions and reveals the costs that become associated.
Nena Hutchings was raised on a horse ranch, and throughout her life has wanted nothing more than to see it successful and kept in the family. To offset it's declining business, she put more and more of her time and effort into it, eventually distancing herself from her family. While there's an understanding of her desire to see success, the toll it takes on relationships matures until her heartbreaking discovery of cancer forces her to face that chasm she created and finally recognize the cost she forfeited by her ambition. Can a bridge be rebuilt?
In this book, Mike weaves his own experiences of his battle with cancer into a story that is incredibly convicting, but the story is less about the cancer that takes life and more about the cancer that kills family. But this cancer has a much simpler cure: putting off the 'this is how I was raised' and changing to this is how I know I should be.
As I read this story, I found myself in so many of its' characters; the grandchild whose father continually puts off bonding opportunity to focus on an upcoming promotion and I was in that father seeking position. I found my feelings in a daughter's ambivalence and in the husband acting as a middle-man. I found myself in the lead character as I recognized my own failings in raising my own kids.
The story flashes back and forth between the young Nena and her current self. Here we find a spirited, young, carefree girl; the woman she might have become instead grown hard and lonely by the results of her hardships, and Mike captures this perfectly telling it this way.
And that's the point of this book: pointing a finger at what we're doing and where we're at in life; revealing the chain that's been handed down to us by our own hardships. Identifying the shortcomings we face through our own misguided focus and kindling a conviction and a desire to bring change and to make that happen before it terminally affects those around us to become the burdening legacy we pass on.
So, this book comes recommended for parents and grandparents. This book is for those who feel a hurt passed down to them, and this book is for young adults who are still working out what they wish to become.
There are times God whispers to us where we feel the nudge that our priorities in life are askew and there are times God screams to us through hardship where we are forced to assess where we actually are and worry whether things can be made right. This book will definitely hold up a mirror, but in the end, which voice will you listen to?
November 24, 2012
Michael King in his new book “A Thousand Sleepless Nights” published by Realms brings us into the life of Jim Harding.
From the back cover: A family torn apart by neglect and hurt…And brought together again by a most unlikely force.
In the 1970s, escaping a home where he knew nothing but violence and hate, Jim Harding found work, and love, on the largest horse ranch in Virginia. The object of his affections, Nena St. Claire, is the daughter of the owner—a man who ruled his ranch with an iron fist and would do whatever it took to keep Nena and Jim apart.
Against the wishes of her family, Nena marries Jim, and after her father dies, she sacrifices everything—including her family—to keep the ranch alive. Now their three grown children have lives of their own and want nothing to do with Nena. She was never the mother they needed.
When cancer strikes and Nena is given a devastating diagnosis, can Jim reconcile the family before it is too late?
When individuals die what is the remorse felt by the loved ones left behind? Generally it is “I regret that I never patched up that problem that we had” or “we could have been closer if only I had forgiven instead of keeping them at a distance”. When the individual is no longer here we long for one more chance to reconcile and say the things we never did but then, of course, it is too late. In “A Thousand Sleepless Nights” Michael King gives us a story where a family gets the chance to reconcile before there is a death. And there is a need for huge amounts of reconciliation in this family. We can all identify with at least one member of the Harding clan and that is what makes this book so touching and personal. Underneath this great story there are the themes of restoration, emotional healing and family. I liked “A Thousand Sleepless Nights” and am looking forward to more stories from Michael King.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Realms for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: A family torn apart by neglect and hurt…And brought together again by a most unlikely force.
In the 1970s, escaping a home where he knew nothing but violence and hate, Jim Harding found work, and love, on the largest horse ranch in Virginia. The object of his affections, Nena St. Claire, is the daughter of the owner—a man who ruled his ranch with an iron fist and would do whatever it took to keep Nena and Jim apart.
Against the wishes of her family, Nena marries Jim, and after her father dies, she sacrifices everything—including her family—to keep the ranch alive. Now their three grown children have lives of their own and want nothing to do with Nena. She was never the mother they needed.
When cancer strikes and Nena is given a devastating diagnosis, can Jim reconcile the family before it is too late?
When individuals die what is the remorse felt by the loved ones left behind? Generally it is “I regret that I never patched up that problem that we had” or “we could have been closer if only I had forgiven instead of keeping them at a distance”. When the individual is no longer here we long for one more chance to reconcile and say the things we never did but then, of course, it is too late. In “A Thousand Sleepless Nights” Michael King gives us a story where a family gets the chance to reconcile before there is a death. And there is a need for huge amounts of reconciliation in this family. We can all identify with at least one member of the Harding clan and that is what makes this book so touching and personal. Underneath this great story there are the themes of restoration, emotional healing and family. I liked “A Thousand Sleepless Nights” and am looking forward to more stories from Michael King.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Realms for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
October 18, 2012
Sometimes when an author changes course and writes outside his comfort zone, bad things happen. And sometimes, like with Michael King’s “A Thousand Sleepless Nights”, something beautiful follows. The subject is cancer. The theme is redemption. And the result is a work of art.
Jimmy and Nena were meant for each other. They met on Nena’s father’s farm, married and began their family. After Nena took over the fledgling farm from her father, she put everything else, including her family, aside to try and save it. Years later, after the kids have left home and Nena and Jimmy are alone, life turns on them. Nena is diagnosed with cancer.
I know what you are thinking. This is another depressing story about cancer, but that’s where you’d be wrong. Only Michael King could turn a horrible turn of events into a chance for a family to come to terms with their past, their present and their future. But isn’t that what life’s surprises do? They force us to make a decision about how we will respond, what we will do in the face of it and where we will eventually end up.
“A Thousand Sleepless Nights” will make you confront hard things. You will laugh and cry, but, most importantly, you will ponder and finally, you will sing. Yes, sing because the beauty of God’s redemptive love will flow.
When I closed the book after the last page, all I could say was “wow, that was powerful.” I hope you will, too.
Click here to purchase from Amazon.com. Michael King is partnering with the Colon Cancer Allianceand will be donating a portion of the proceeds of every book sold through the end of 2012.
Purchase the book during the week of October 15-20 and receive free stuff!!
Details: Purchase your copy of A Thousand Sleepless Nights from any vendor during the week of Oct. 15-20 and email Michael at michaelkingwrites@gmail.com saying you did so. In return you’ll receive a link and password to a secret page containing free downloads. No need to provide proof of purchase; we’re going by the honor system here.
Offer only lasts until October 20!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Realms, a division of Charisma House Book Group, and as a member of The Darlington Society. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Jimmy and Nena were meant for each other. They met on Nena’s father’s farm, married and began their family. After Nena took over the fledgling farm from her father, she put everything else, including her family, aside to try and save it. Years later, after the kids have left home and Nena and Jimmy are alone, life turns on them. Nena is diagnosed with cancer.
I know what you are thinking. This is another depressing story about cancer, but that’s where you’d be wrong. Only Michael King could turn a horrible turn of events into a chance for a family to come to terms with their past, their present and their future. But isn’t that what life’s surprises do? They force us to make a decision about how we will respond, what we will do in the face of it and where we will eventually end up.
“A Thousand Sleepless Nights” will make you confront hard things. You will laugh and cry, but, most importantly, you will ponder and finally, you will sing. Yes, sing because the beauty of God’s redemptive love will flow.
When I closed the book after the last page, all I could say was “wow, that was powerful.” I hope you will, too.
Click here to purchase from Amazon.com. Michael King is partnering with the Colon Cancer Allianceand will be donating a portion of the proceeds of every book sold through the end of 2012.
Purchase the book during the week of October 15-20 and receive free stuff!!
Details: Purchase your copy of A Thousand Sleepless Nights from any vendor during the week of Oct. 15-20 and email Michael at michaelkingwrites@gmail.com saying you did so. In return you’ll receive a link and password to a secret page containing free downloads. No need to provide proof of purchase; we’re going by the honor system here.
Offer only lasts until October 20!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Realms, a division of Charisma House Book Group, and as a member of The Darlington Society. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
October 19, 2012
‘A Thousand Sleepless Nights’ is a powerful story of one family’s battle with cancer and for wholeness.
Nena and Jim are the main characters of 'A Thousand Sleepless Nights.' Nena's cancer and past neglect of her family shadows or influences everything else in the story. Jim is her husband. His devotion to Nena and the three children (now grown) is apparent throughout the book. His story is split between the present and the past looking back at what led up to his meeting Nena and a short time after meeting her, some thirty years earlier. As the story progresses it becomes apparent that something happened in the past that Jim needs to deal with before it is too late. Roberta is the youngest of their children. She felt her mom’s neglect the most and in her search for love has made some costly choices. Ken the middle child is trying to fill his emptiness with success, basically showing the same tendencies of his mom, only on his own path. The oldest, Barbara, is the one least broken by Nena’s passion to save the ranch at any cost, but she too is battling health issues.
As Nena’s cancer progresses and her health deteriorates, she begins to see the damage she has done to her entire family. Her determination once focused on saving the ranch finds a new focus. She must come to terms with what she has done as well as dealing with her cancer and possible death. As death's threat grows larger Nena becomes even more determined.
As a cancer survivor himself, Michael knows firsthand the heartaches and pains of cancer. He takes that knowledge and uses it to make a very realistic story.
Michael uses his writing talents to draw the reader into Nena and Jim’s world, right along with Roberta, Ken, and Barbara. A world of pain, suffering, and yet hope.
I’d recommend ‘A Thousand Sleepless Nights’ to everyone. It is realistic, especially about cancer. It touches on humanity’s greatest need (peace with God).
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author Michael King as a member of The Darlington Society. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Nena and Jim are the main characters of 'A Thousand Sleepless Nights.' Nena's cancer and past neglect of her family shadows or influences everything else in the story. Jim is her husband. His devotion to Nena and the three children (now grown) is apparent throughout the book. His story is split between the present and the past looking back at what led up to his meeting Nena and a short time after meeting her, some thirty years earlier. As the story progresses it becomes apparent that something happened in the past that Jim needs to deal with before it is too late. Roberta is the youngest of their children. She felt her mom’s neglect the most and in her search for love has made some costly choices. Ken the middle child is trying to fill his emptiness with success, basically showing the same tendencies of his mom, only on his own path. The oldest, Barbara, is the one least broken by Nena’s passion to save the ranch at any cost, but she too is battling health issues.
As Nena’s cancer progresses and her health deteriorates, she begins to see the damage she has done to her entire family. Her determination once focused on saving the ranch finds a new focus. She must come to terms with what she has done as well as dealing with her cancer and possible death. As death's threat grows larger Nena becomes even more determined.
As a cancer survivor himself, Michael knows firsthand the heartaches and pains of cancer. He takes that knowledge and uses it to make a very realistic story.
Michael uses his writing talents to draw the reader into Nena and Jim’s world, right along with Roberta, Ken, and Barbara. A world of pain, suffering, and yet hope.
I’d recommend ‘A Thousand Sleepless Nights’ to everyone. It is realistic, especially about cancer. It touches on humanity’s greatest need (peace with God).
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author Michael King as a member of The Darlington Society. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
October 18, 2012
A Thousand Sleepless Nights is beautifully written with pain, passion, and perseverance at its core along with love and redemption as its message.
When Jim Hutching first fell in love with Nena St.Clare he fought for her almost losing his life and won her heart, but years later, now that they are married with adult children it is Nena's turn to fight for her life and her family.
Nena Hutching is anxious when the family Doctor makes an unexpected house visit to tell her she has colon cancer, after hearing the news with her husband Nena passes out.
She is now faced with her own mortality, her life seems in disrepair with the issues between her and her three children because of issues in the past, but she doesn't want to cross that bridge yet. While on the other hand Jim quickly calls his three children who he has tried to keep in touch with. All of Jim and Nena's children seem to be having their own personal issues whether it be marital, relational or health and none of them can make it to see their mother. After an invasive surgery to remove the cancer fails, Nena is put into chemotherapy. After even more failed attempts to get the children to come see their mother, Jim feels like he is losing his family. But one day in the hospital Nena meets a young man in his thirties who is fighting for his life because of his love for his wife and three daughters, and that makes an impact on her. Nena is becoming to weak and has a heart attack and is not given long to live so she gives Jim the consent to call the kids now and requests if they can make it for Thanksgiving. Jim calls his daughter and she decides to come after a horrible break up. His other daughter now pushes to make it with her whole family. Jim's son's marriage is so shaky but he decides to bring his family out as well. They all make it for Thanksgiving some later than others but they are together for the holidays for the first time in many years. Broken relationships are mended, apologies are said as well as farewells, but a family together is stronger than death.
Love and forgiveness brings a newer happier life and makes mourning easier.
I read the last pages of the story through teary eyes.
When Jim Hutching first fell in love with Nena St.Clare he fought for her almost losing his life and won her heart, but years later, now that they are married with adult children it is Nena's turn to fight for her life and her family.
Nena Hutching is anxious when the family Doctor makes an unexpected house visit to tell her she has colon cancer, after hearing the news with her husband Nena passes out.
She is now faced with her own mortality, her life seems in disrepair with the issues between her and her three children because of issues in the past, but she doesn't want to cross that bridge yet. While on the other hand Jim quickly calls his three children who he has tried to keep in touch with. All of Jim and Nena's children seem to be having their own personal issues whether it be marital, relational or health and none of them can make it to see their mother. After an invasive surgery to remove the cancer fails, Nena is put into chemotherapy. After even more failed attempts to get the children to come see their mother, Jim feels like he is losing his family. But one day in the hospital Nena meets a young man in his thirties who is fighting for his life because of his love for his wife and three daughters, and that makes an impact on her. Nena is becoming to weak and has a heart attack and is not given long to live so she gives Jim the consent to call the kids now and requests if they can make it for Thanksgiving. Jim calls his daughter and she decides to come after a horrible break up. His other daughter now pushes to make it with her whole family. Jim's son's marriage is so shaky but he decides to bring his family out as well. They all make it for Thanksgiving some later than others but they are together for the holidays for the first time in many years. Broken relationships are mended, apologies are said as well as farewells, but a family together is stronger than death.
Love and forgiveness brings a newer happier life and makes mourning easier.
I read the last pages of the story through teary eyes.
October 16, 2012
A Thousand Sleepless Nights by Michael King is a cancer novel with a strong family theme.
The novel begins with Nena as a young woman in love with one of her father’s ranch hands, Jimmy. Jimmy is a new hire. On the reccomendation of a friend, Cricket hired Jimmy at a time when Jimmy’s violent father caused Jimmy to be homeless. Nena is engaged to a wealthy neighbor, Ted McGovern. Her father has arranged the marriage to combine two successful ranches as they raise thoroughbreds. Nena’s father has gone into debt with a new purchase of a horse, and the marriage would bring in more money. Of course, Nena tosses away wealth for the love of a mere ranch hand. Fast forward several years.
Nena is diagnosed with an advanced form of cancer. Her determination to hold on to the ranch after her father’s death has alienated her and Jimmy’s three children. Interestingly enough, like the song, Cat’s in the Cradle, her children have scattered and their wounds influence their lives. Nena’s focus on work first over family was a lesson her children learned well.
Ken has chosen to copy his mother’s example by putting his desire for partnership at a big law firm over the needs of his family. Roberta has chosen to chase after a lover rather than marriage, holding on to the faint promise of a possible ring. Barb is diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer and keeps it from her extended family. Of all the children, Barb, the eldest, remembers when her mother was loving. Barb has wounds, but she applies the lessons over time to show healing and transformation. While cancer becomes the ultimate enemy, Jimmy recalls throughout the novel how Nena and him met and the dangers Ted McGovern brought to them and the ranch.
What makes A Thousand Sleepless Nights different is the realistic portrayal of the people enduring cancer. The emotions came through powerfully. The emotional see-saw of what a cancer patient goes through can only be written by a former cancer patient. Michael King uses his experience to add depth to this novel, and while the ending is good, it’s neither trite nor cheesy.
I gave this novel five stars.
*Book given by the author to review.
The novel begins with Nena as a young woman in love with one of her father’s ranch hands, Jimmy. Jimmy is a new hire. On the reccomendation of a friend, Cricket hired Jimmy at a time when Jimmy’s violent father caused Jimmy to be homeless. Nena is engaged to a wealthy neighbor, Ted McGovern. Her father has arranged the marriage to combine two successful ranches as they raise thoroughbreds. Nena’s father has gone into debt with a new purchase of a horse, and the marriage would bring in more money. Of course, Nena tosses away wealth for the love of a mere ranch hand. Fast forward several years.
Nena is diagnosed with an advanced form of cancer. Her determination to hold on to the ranch after her father’s death has alienated her and Jimmy’s three children. Interestingly enough, like the song, Cat’s in the Cradle, her children have scattered and their wounds influence their lives. Nena’s focus on work first over family was a lesson her children learned well.
Ken has chosen to copy his mother’s example by putting his desire for partnership at a big law firm over the needs of his family. Roberta has chosen to chase after a lover rather than marriage, holding on to the faint promise of a possible ring. Barb is diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer and keeps it from her extended family. Of all the children, Barb, the eldest, remembers when her mother was loving. Barb has wounds, but she applies the lessons over time to show healing and transformation. While cancer becomes the ultimate enemy, Jimmy recalls throughout the novel how Nena and him met and the dangers Ted McGovern brought to them and the ranch.
What makes A Thousand Sleepless Nights different is the realistic portrayal of the people enduring cancer. The emotions came through powerfully. The emotional see-saw of what a cancer patient goes through can only be written by a former cancer patient. Michael King uses his experience to add depth to this novel, and while the ending is good, it’s neither trite nor cheesy.
I gave this novel five stars.
*Book given by the author to review.
November 25, 2012
This novel was a delightful surprise. Mike demonstrated he can move beyond the suspenseful thriller to crafting a heart-warming contemporary story.
Mike took me on an emotional roller coaster. I could identify with each of the key characters, feeling their pain and heart ache as well as their jubilation and desire to overcome. Jim, as a young man, fighting to save the woman, Nena, he fell in love with on first sight, from marrying the wrong guy. To Nena, as an older woman, who lives with such regret from neglecting her children as they grew up, due to her desire to fulfil a promise she made to her dying father.
The workaholic son, Ken, who cannot see beyond his pursuit of partnership in his law firm, even being prepared to sacrifice his family. To Roberta, the youngest, as she grapples with wanting to be cherished by her boyfriend who cannot meet that need. And Barb, struggling with her own cancer battle, whilst trying to keep a normal family life for her husband and children.
Many of us can relate, whether it's our own experience or from observing someone else's. A dysfunctional family. Three grown children, lost in their own worlds, holding onto the thin cord of hope for family by their dad, who refuses to let them go.
I found myself immersed in every scene; cheering at times, others crying out to God to heal the multiple layers of brokenness whether physical, emotional or spiritual. Every scene is short and we move from one character's viewpoint to another's seamlessly.
This is a powerful story with a strong message of hope and reconciliation, even through loss and sadness.
I'd rate it a 4.5 out of 5 and wholeheartedly encourage readers to grab a copy.
Mike took me on an emotional roller coaster. I could identify with each of the key characters, feeling their pain and heart ache as well as their jubilation and desire to overcome. Jim, as a young man, fighting to save the woman, Nena, he fell in love with on first sight, from marrying the wrong guy. To Nena, as an older woman, who lives with such regret from neglecting her children as they grew up, due to her desire to fulfil a promise she made to her dying father.
The workaholic son, Ken, who cannot see beyond his pursuit of partnership in his law firm, even being prepared to sacrifice his family. To Roberta, the youngest, as she grapples with wanting to be cherished by her boyfriend who cannot meet that need. And Barb, struggling with her own cancer battle, whilst trying to keep a normal family life for her husband and children.
Many of us can relate, whether it's our own experience or from observing someone else's. A dysfunctional family. Three grown children, lost in their own worlds, holding onto the thin cord of hope for family by their dad, who refuses to let them go.
I found myself immersed in every scene; cheering at times, others crying out to God to heal the multiple layers of brokenness whether physical, emotional or spiritual. Every scene is short and we move from one character's viewpoint to another's seamlessly.
This is a powerful story with a strong message of hope and reconciliation, even through loss and sadness.
I'd rate it a 4.5 out of 5 and wholeheartedly encourage readers to grab a copy.
October 15, 2012
This book was a roller coaster of emotions. I actually read it twice because it was that good.
the story is of Nena and Jim told as flashbacks from the characters as they also lead their own lives in the present.
It is a love story of two people from very different backgrounds who make a life for theirselves on a Virginia horse farm.
Circumstances change and the once idyllic life becomes one of hardship, unending work and sorrow.
Their children are left to fend for themselves while Nena uses all her time and energy to try to keep what was once a place of beauty filled with laughter, love and hope to a place of sadness, lonliness and bitter loss.
the children grow up and each goes off to their own lives. What was lost in their childhood changes who they become as adults.
Nena and Jim grow old and alone with each others' memories.
Colon cancer, that monster in hiding, comes to Nena and shatters her life and Jims. As her health deteriorates and options are fading, the "what ifs" in the past and her nee3d to reach out to her grown children becomes the reason to see them all one more time.
Each of the grown children struggles problems and sadness and must come to grips with their mothers illness and what they need to do.
This book will leave you thinking of your life and the past and what you could have done or said to have changed the present.
Yes, this isa story of cancer and all its horrible affects on the life of the person with it and those surrounding her. But it is so much more.
It is a story of faith, forgiveness, redemption and the power of love.
the story is of Nena and Jim told as flashbacks from the characters as they also lead their own lives in the present.
It is a love story of two people from very different backgrounds who make a life for theirselves on a Virginia horse farm.
Circumstances change and the once idyllic life becomes one of hardship, unending work and sorrow.
Their children are left to fend for themselves while Nena uses all her time and energy to try to keep what was once a place of beauty filled with laughter, love and hope to a place of sadness, lonliness and bitter loss.
the children grow up and each goes off to their own lives. What was lost in their childhood changes who they become as adults.
Nena and Jim grow old and alone with each others' memories.
Colon cancer, that monster in hiding, comes to Nena and shatters her life and Jims. As her health deteriorates and options are fading, the "what ifs" in the past and her nee3d to reach out to her grown children becomes the reason to see them all one more time.
Each of the grown children struggles problems and sadness and must come to grips with their mothers illness and what they need to do.
This book will leave you thinking of your life and the past and what you could have done or said to have changed the present.
Yes, this isa story of cancer and all its horrible affects on the life of the person with it and those surrounding her. But it is so much more.
It is a story of faith, forgiveness, redemption and the power of love.
November 2, 2012
I have to admit that I had some hesitancy about reading this book. I watched my mom lose a ten year battle with leukemia and I wasn’t sure I wanted to read an entire book that revolved around cancer. I thought it would be too depressing, but I have read a lot of Michael’s writing and I know how exceptional his writing is. Readers will probably know him as Mike Dellosso, suspense author. A Thousand Sleepless Nights is his first foray into a different genre of Christian fiction, one that he felt led to. I knew I would love this book once I got past my own emotional hesitation, especially because Mike has experienced cancer first hand.
I didn’t find this book depressing at all. Yes, the reader does get to see the ugly side of cancer, but Mike filled this story with hope and love and I felt completely inspired and uplifted by the time I finished it. I like to be able to really experience a story, especially one that deals with such emotions as A Thousand Sleepless Nights. I can’t remember the last time I felt an author pull me into a story as much as this one. I didn’t feel like it was a negative though. It actually felt theraputic to experience this story and these characters. Everything about this book was extraordinary and inspirational. I am so glad that Mike answered the call to write stories like this in addition to his suspense stories. He will be able to reach a different type of reader who will get to experience God’s grace. I applaud this book and this author and I highly recommend this book.
I didn’t find this book depressing at all. Yes, the reader does get to see the ugly side of cancer, but Mike filled this story with hope and love and I felt completely inspired and uplifted by the time I finished it. I like to be able to really experience a story, especially one that deals with such emotions as A Thousand Sleepless Nights. I can’t remember the last time I felt an author pull me into a story as much as this one. I didn’t feel like it was a negative though. It actually felt theraputic to experience this story and these characters. Everything about this book was extraordinary and inspirational. I am so glad that Mike answered the call to write stories like this in addition to his suspense stories. He will be able to reach a different type of reader who will get to experience God’s grace. I applaud this book and this author and I highly recommend this book.
December 31, 2015
A Thousand Sleepless Nights by Michael King is one of those books I knew would be good. You see, Michael King is a pen name used by Mike Dellosso, an author whose writing I’ve always really liked. He has a way with words that I loved even more in this book. I think because this book isn’t constant suspense-filled action his writing really shines. The story is great, but I found myself appreciating the writing even more. I love his descriptions – he has ways of stating things that make it very easy to the reader to know exactly what he’s trying to say. Exactly.
The characters are great. I thought they were all well-developed and quite interesting. Each of the main characters – Jimmy, Nena, and each of their kids – is relatable. And I didn’t find a single one annoying at all. The reader can understand their motivation and why they are they way they are. Enough is shared about them – both through their part of the story and through the others’ parts as well. There were times that I felt I wanted to know a bit more about the characters – especially the “kids” – but I still was satisfied by what was shared.
I think my favorite part was Jimmy’s reminiscing about how he and Nena came together. Their story was interesting and full of surprises. I loved it!
I am very much looking forward to seeing what more Michael King has in store for his readers! This is one author whose books I’ll make a point to read.
The characters are great. I thought they were all well-developed and quite interesting. Each of the main characters – Jimmy, Nena, and each of their kids – is relatable. And I didn’t find a single one annoying at all. The reader can understand their motivation and why they are they way they are. Enough is shared about them – both through their part of the story and through the others’ parts as well. There were times that I felt I wanted to know a bit more about the characters – especially the “kids” – but I still was satisfied by what was shared.
I think my favorite part was Jimmy’s reminiscing about how he and Nena came together. Their story was interesting and full of surprises. I loved it!
I am very much looking forward to seeing what more Michael King has in store for his readers! This is one author whose books I’ll make a point to read.
October 29, 2012
A true moment is clearly meant to be savored however fleeting it may be.
Nena St. Claire is reluctant to marry Ted McGovern whom her father endorses in order to save what belongs to their family, but her heart, her happiness, belongs to another and despite the wishes of her father she pursues the affection of her heart.
Jim Harding, a man who works at the St. Claire ranch strives hard to overcome secrets and hardships of a past that still haunts him, keeping his thoughts and dreams a prisoner.
When a devastating prognosis is revealed to Nena life takes on a new meaning for her. Her husband longs to reconnect the present with the past while hoping to rejoin that which is lost.
Will forgiveness embrace the hearts and thoughts of those burdened by the memories of the past?
A book that comes full circle, creating love, reality and heartbreak that team together to perfectly create this hard to forget and impossible to put down novel. An inside look at the successes and challenges of four families that are linked separately by an undeniably common bond. Intensely realistic and connectable characters, descriptive scenery, easy to follow dialogue and smooth flowing plot highlight this well crafted book that I could not stop reading until I was finished. I will highly recommend this unforgettable read. 5 Stars! I received a complimentary copy from Realms and Charisma House Publishers for my review.
Nena St. Claire is reluctant to marry Ted McGovern whom her father endorses in order to save what belongs to their family, but her heart, her happiness, belongs to another and despite the wishes of her father she pursues the affection of her heart.
Jim Harding, a man who works at the St. Claire ranch strives hard to overcome secrets and hardships of a past that still haunts him, keeping his thoughts and dreams a prisoner.
When a devastating prognosis is revealed to Nena life takes on a new meaning for her. Her husband longs to reconnect the present with the past while hoping to rejoin that which is lost.
Will forgiveness embrace the hearts and thoughts of those burdened by the memories of the past?
A book that comes full circle, creating love, reality and heartbreak that team together to perfectly create this hard to forget and impossible to put down novel. An inside look at the successes and challenges of four families that are linked separately by an undeniably common bond. Intensely realistic and connectable characters, descriptive scenery, easy to follow dialogue and smooth flowing plot highlight this well crafted book that I could not stop reading until I was finished. I will highly recommend this unforgettable read. 5 Stars! I received a complimentary copy from Realms and Charisma House Publishers for my review.
November 7, 2012
Plumbing the depths of human emotion, A Thousand Sleepless Nights is a poignant, moving read. From the beginning, readers will be immersed into Nena and Jim's world, feeling their heartache as cancer ravages Nena's body, and mourning with the family for the mistakes that have been made, mistakes that continue to overshadow each family member. Michael King writes with a steady hand, as one familiar with the horror of cancer. As a result, his characters truly live and breathe as they adjust to a new reality, one that has rocked them to their core.
What I most appreciated about this book is how it brings to life the fact that "all things work together for good to those who love God" (Romans 8:28), that the cancer that is taking Nena's life also serves as a catalyst to bring healing to a broken family. That, indeed, is a powerful message that is desperately needed in a world of hurting people who often find it so hard to trust that God.
If you are looking for a deeply emotional book that will both entertain and leave you thinking about the nature of life and of faith, then this is the book for you. 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Realms, for the purposes of this unbiased review.
What I most appreciated about this book is how it brings to life the fact that "all things work together for good to those who love God" (Romans 8:28), that the cancer that is taking Nena's life also serves as a catalyst to bring healing to a broken family. That, indeed, is a powerful message that is desperately needed in a world of hurting people who often find it so hard to trust that God.
If you are looking for a deeply emotional book that will both entertain and leave you thinking about the nature of life and of faith, then this is the book for you. 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Realms, for the purposes of this unbiased review.
October 26, 2015
Michael King is a brand new author to me so when I first saw this book I wasn't impressed. To be honest the title, "A Thousand Sleepless Nights," seemed odd to me. Was it a book about sleep apnea?? No, it's actually a story of family and emotion.
Nena marries a simple ranch hand after breaking her engagement to one the up and coming young men in her circle. . . was this a wise decision? Interestingly, the author brings out how God works even when we make choices that don't work.
At times this was quite a sad read (for me)....dealing with cancer and death is not an easy feat for most of us humans. Then there are the issues within the family. But there's also the forgiveness. The love and the way it is and the what might have beens. Makes for quite an emotional heartrending read!
After her father passes away from cancer Nena inherits the immense ranch.
Nena has issues that she needs to deal with...these issues also include her children at times.
Overall, an interesting read.
Nena marries a simple ranch hand after breaking her engagement to one the up and coming young men in her circle. . . was this a wise decision? Interestingly, the author brings out how God works even when we make choices that don't work.
At times this was quite a sad read (for me)....dealing with cancer and death is not an easy feat for most of us humans. Then there are the issues within the family. But there's also the forgiveness. The love and the way it is and the what might have beens. Makes for quite an emotional heartrending read!
After her father passes away from cancer Nena inherits the immense ranch.
Nena has issues that she needs to deal with...these issues also include her children at times.
Overall, an interesting read.
October 16, 2012
This book is a powerful story you will not easily forget. Jim and Nena meet and fall in love. They marry against the wishes of her father. Through the years their love is constant and true. But their children are living lives that are anything but ideal. They are all hurting from their Mother's neglect as they were growing up. When Nena is diagnosed with cancer, the regrets come crashing down. Jim tries to bring the family back together again.
Michael King will take you to Virginia from the first page. His writing will allow you to live this family's story right along with them.
This is a story of tears, illness, joy, regrets and many of the emotions we can all identify with.
Will this family allow God to give them forgiveness, faith, hope and most of all his wonderful peace? This book will truly bless you as it did me.
Michael King will take you to Virginia from the first page. His writing will allow you to live this family's story right along with them.
This is a story of tears, illness, joy, regrets and many of the emotions we can all identify with.
Will this family allow God to give them forgiveness, faith, hope and most of all his wonderful peace? This book will truly bless you as it did me.
August 5, 2024
A beautiful and moving story about love, family, reconciliation, and how important it is to prioritize the things in life that truly matter. Having Jimmy and Nena's young adulthood and love story woven into the story along with present day them battling Nena's cancer diagnosis and how their adult children come into play really made this book all the more emotional and heartfelt. This is definitely not a "feel good" read, but a memorable and touching book that you'll remember long after you've read it.
October 23, 2012
A Thousand Sleepless Nights chronicles the struggle of a family searching for reconciliation and forgiveness. It is also a moving story of the struggle that families face with cancer. I encourage everyone to read and absorb this book, and allow it to affect/impact your life. This is a multi-emotional book. It's just a beautiful story, not a happy one. I would recommend this to everyone, who has or knows anyone who has struggled with cancer!
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