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Jasmine
She survived her past…but how can she face it?Jasmine is a survivor. She’s lived through the abuse of her father, running away at age fourteen, and living on the streets. Now she counsels at-risk young women—giving them a second chance at life.But when her mother dies, can Jasmine go home again and face all she’s forced herself to forget for the last twenty years? Or will the past she has long forgotten take over her present once again?
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2013
3 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
April McGowan
4 books81 followersApril McGowan loves to stories of hope, courage, and inspiration. She and her husband, two children, and her 3 mews, Saoirse,Xander, and Liam, live in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. April is a member of Oregon Christian Writers, the Christian Authors Network, and American Christian Fiction Writers. She's also the publicity coordinator for Oregon Christian Writers. When she's not writing, reading down her book list, homeschooling her son, or playing board games, you might find her at her drum kit, imagining she's on a world tour. Hey, it could happen.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 11, 2013
Jasmine by April McGowan is one of those brilliantly intelligent books that goes straight to your heart.
As a person who grew up in a dysfunctional family I give the author two thumbs up for her understanding of the heart-ache that scars so many people. I knew this especially while reading, when the main character of this novel, Jasmine, explained why she threw her treasured bicycle over the bridge and into the water when she was a child. Because I remember that emotion.
Also, as a true-life birthmom—a woman who relinquished a child to adoption—I applaud the author for her in-depth comprehension of the myriad of emotions that go into that kind of sacrifice.
Jasmine is a book to be read by so many—those who are hurting from abuse, sexual or any other kind. People who work with emotional scarred individuals will also love this novel. But aside from being socially relevant, Jasmine is a really good story for its mystery, suspense, romance, and the redemption of lives and family.
Writing about sexual abuse, relinquishing one’s baby, abortion, needing to escape to a homeless shelter are all tough issues, but to write about them in such a captivating manner deserves the highest accolades.
Bravo April McGowan for a brilliant debut novel.
As a person who grew up in a dysfunctional family I give the author two thumbs up for her understanding of the heart-ache that scars so many people. I knew this especially while reading, when the main character of this novel, Jasmine, explained why she threw her treasured bicycle over the bridge and into the water when she was a child. Because I remember that emotion.
Also, as a true-life birthmom—a woman who relinquished a child to adoption—I applaud the author for her in-depth comprehension of the myriad of emotions that go into that kind of sacrifice.
Jasmine is a book to be read by so many—those who are hurting from abuse, sexual or any other kind. People who work with emotional scarred individuals will also love this novel. But aside from being socially relevant, Jasmine is a really good story for its mystery, suspense, romance, and the redemption of lives and family.
Writing about sexual abuse, relinquishing one’s baby, abortion, needing to escape to a homeless shelter are all tough issues, but to write about them in such a captivating manner deserves the highest accolades.
Bravo April McGowan for a brilliant debut novel.
August 13, 2013
It took more than one tissue to survive reading this novel, but it was well worth the inspiring, emotional impact. “Jasmine” by April McGowen is a contemporary fiction that earns kudos for presenting the harsh realities of life while offering a faith that can overcome evil with forgiveness and hope.
Jazz, as the protagonist now calls herself, must return to her hometown because of a death in the family. She has not been there in 22 years and the thought of returning where the trauma occurred early in her life fills Jasmine with terror. How can she face her past horror—a nightmare that no one knows about because she was so good at living a lie just to endure? She has survived—but can she heal? It could take more than a new name to accomplish what she thought she could do on her own.
Jasmine is also unaware of the pain that her sudden disappearance years prior has caused. Can she ever reconcile with those she hurt? Can they ever understand why she had to leave?
This novel completely wraps you up in well-crafted, believable characters and the gripping stories of women caught in circumstances that lead them to homelessness and prostitution. Jasmine has been a victim, but she has now dedicated her life to helping other women escape the horrifying life on the streets. But she soon learns, it takes more than a strong will to sustain the soul.
A captivating read with passages that melt your heart with the pain of Jasmine’s past and the struggle to find normalcy when her life has suffered from the deviant behavior of others. This is a story unafraid to ask the difficult questions about why bad things happen. It does not provide all the answers—but directs readers to the One Who will never leave or forsake us, even in the darkest hours.
Jazz, as the protagonist now calls herself, must return to her hometown because of a death in the family. She has not been there in 22 years and the thought of returning where the trauma occurred early in her life fills Jasmine with terror. How can she face her past horror—a nightmare that no one knows about because she was so good at living a lie just to endure? She has survived—but can she heal? It could take more than a new name to accomplish what she thought she could do on her own.
Jasmine is also unaware of the pain that her sudden disappearance years prior has caused. Can she ever reconcile with those she hurt? Can they ever understand why she had to leave?
This novel completely wraps you up in well-crafted, believable characters and the gripping stories of women caught in circumstances that lead them to homelessness and prostitution. Jasmine has been a victim, but she has now dedicated her life to helping other women escape the horrifying life on the streets. But she soon learns, it takes more than a strong will to sustain the soul.
A captivating read with passages that melt your heart with the pain of Jasmine’s past and the struggle to find normalcy when her life has suffered from the deviant behavior of others. This is a story unafraid to ask the difficult questions about why bad things happen. It does not provide all the answers—but directs readers to the One Who will never leave or forsake us, even in the darkest hours.
July 30, 2013
April McGowan is a terrific writer, skillfully drawing me into Jasmine. I was horrified to read about this type of abuse perpetrated on a child, yet I was delighted at the main character's path to forgiveness and wholeness as well as the ups and downs of a realistic romance intertwined within this very interesting and multifaceted Christian novel. A very memorable novel with an important story line. Nancy Meacham-Cole, writing as Marriott Cole
Merged review:
April McGowan is a terrific writer, skillfully drawing me into Jasmine. I was horrified to read about this type of abuse perpetrated on a child, yet I was delighted at the main character's path to forgiveness and wholeness as well as the ups and downs of a realistic romance intertwined within this very interesting and multifaceted Christian novel. A very memorable novel with an important story line. Nancy Meacham-Cole, writing as Marriott Cole, author, Grace, Miracles, and Chocolate
Merged review:
April McGowan is a terrific writer, skillfully drawing me into Jasmine. I was horrified to read about this type of abuse perpetrated on a child, yet I was delighted at the main character's path to forgiveness and wholeness as well as the ups and downs of a realistic romance intertwined within this very interesting and multifaceted Christian novel. A very memorable novel with an important story line. Nancy Meacham-Cole, writing as Marriott Cole, author, Grace, Miracles, and Chocolate
August 14, 2013
Christian Love Triumphs Evil
April McGowan has sent a bright light into the dark world of sex trafficking in her debut novel, Jasmine. Just as Jasmine learns that she can be made whole again, we learn there can be something done about this horrific practice. These problems begin before a girl runs away from home. In Jasmine’s case, it’s her father’s abuse.
I can’t think of a more difficult subject to handle and bring about a happy ending, but the author has done a good job of resolving the issues. While Tim, Jasmine’s love interest, is almost too good, he comes across as believable in the end.
This author writes in a style that reminds me of Richard Paul Evans, and is able to bring out the characters without words getting in the way. I don’t normally read books with depressing subjects, but I’d definitely read more of this author.
I purchased this book and no one affected my opinion.
April McGowan has sent a bright light into the dark world of sex trafficking in her debut novel, Jasmine. Just as Jasmine learns that she can be made whole again, we learn there can be something done about this horrific practice. These problems begin before a girl runs away from home. In Jasmine’s case, it’s her father’s abuse.
I can’t think of a more difficult subject to handle and bring about a happy ending, but the author has done a good job of resolving the issues. While Tim, Jasmine’s love interest, is almost too good, he comes across as believable in the end.
This author writes in a style that reminds me of Richard Paul Evans, and is able to bring out the characters without words getting in the way. I don’t normally read books with depressing subjects, but I’d definitely read more of this author.
I purchased this book and no one affected my opinion.
July 1, 2013
I love this book. It's a very good read and I highly recommend it.
Jasmine has lived on the street. Her past is filled with hurt, but someone encouraged her, gave her a hand, and helped her through college. Now she’s a counselor to young women lost in the desperate situations she knows so well. She reaches out to pull them through their crisis and has helped change many lives. But, when she must confront the horrors of her own past, she has trouble following her own advice.
This book is one I will long remember, and I’ll remember Jasmine and the women she helped. I'll wonder what they are doing and how they are…The story is that real. April McGowan is a wonderful writer with a heart for women trying to escape abusive situations. Her love and dedication shine through as she weaves the ugliness of abuse and desperation of the victims into a beautiful story of rescue and redemption.
July 7, 2013
Jasmine by April McGowan takes the reader for an emotional ride with unexpected twists and turns until the end. Through April's skill as an author, the reader obtains an in-depth look into the very heart of Jasmine Reynolds through a single point of view.
When Jasmine returns to her childhood home of Bright River, she must face the ghosts of her past. To complicate her life even more, she meets up with her childhood friend Tim Able. The prominent lawyer still cares for Jasmine and would like to establish a relationship. But Jasmine can't allow herself to trust anyone or become vulnerable to another person again.
April's expert understanding and portrayal of her character, Jasmine, is first-rate. Jasmine is a deep, poignant story which provides hope and help for any who've suffered from abuse.
When Jasmine returns to her childhood home of Bright River, she must face the ghosts of her past. To complicate her life even more, she meets up with her childhood friend Tim Able. The prominent lawyer still cares for Jasmine and would like to establish a relationship. But Jasmine can't allow herself to trust anyone or become vulnerable to another person again.
April's expert understanding and portrayal of her character, Jasmine, is first-rate. Jasmine is a deep, poignant story which provides hope and help for any who've suffered from abuse.
September 29, 2013
Excellent debut novel.
I just finished reading April McGowan's debut novel, Jasmine. Although the book had a few typos and a few scenes could use a bit of polishing I loved this story. April's depiction of the characters is absolutely authentic. I cared about the people in this story and I think you will to. And I love how April keeps the reader guessing. She has a lot of unexpected twists and turns.
Here's a little more about it - Jasmine is a survivor. She's lived through the abuse of her father, running away at age fourteen and living on the streets. Now she counsels at-risk young women - giving them a second chance at life.
But when her mother dies, can Jasmine go home again and face all she's forced herself to forget for the last twenty years? Or will the past she has long forgotten take over her present once again?
Highly Recommend.
I just finished reading April McGowan's debut novel, Jasmine. Although the book had a few typos and a few scenes could use a bit of polishing I loved this story. April's depiction of the characters is absolutely authentic. I cared about the people in this story and I think you will to. And I love how April keeps the reader guessing. She has a lot of unexpected twists and turns.
Here's a little more about it - Jasmine is a survivor. She's lived through the abuse of her father, running away at age fourteen and living on the streets. Now she counsels at-risk young women - giving them a second chance at life.
But when her mother dies, can Jasmine go home again and face all she's forced herself to forget for the last twenty years? Or will the past she has long forgotten take over her present once again?
Highly Recommend.
June 21, 2013
April - I heard about your book Friday night, and was able to purchase it that day. I originally just bought it because I wanted to support a local author. This was one of the best purchases I've made this month. What an amazing story you told. It brought out so many emotions. It was well written and kept my attention. It wouldn't have taken me so long to read it if my week wasn't so busy. Last night I couldn't put it down, going to sleep MUCH later than I wanted but I was so close I had to know the end of the story. I'm sad the story is over but I love how you wrapped up all the lose ends. God has given you such a gift, and you gave the world one in return. Keep up the amazing work. I can't wait to purchase the next one!
July 18, 2013
Jasmine is an incredibly well-written tale - one of those stories that makes me feel as though I truly know the characters. I found myself emotionally invested in the story early on, and I couldn't wait to turn the next page. It kept me WAY up past my bedtime!
Jasmine was a raw look at the life of a survivor. There was nothing syrupy-sweet about it (that's a huge plus in my book!). The story takes a number of unexpected turns that truly surprised me.
I look forward to purchasing Jasmine in paperback in September, and any future books by April McGowan. She's a born storyteller with a gift for words.
Jasmine was a raw look at the life of a survivor. There was nothing syrupy-sweet about it (that's a huge plus in my book!). The story takes a number of unexpected turns that truly surprised me.
I look forward to purchasing Jasmine in paperback in September, and any future books by April McGowan. She's a born storyteller with a gift for words.
September 23, 2013
Powerful Read
I had a hard time putting this book down. And when I thought I knew where the story was going, the author flipped me for a loop! Not only was this well-written, the story really touched a cord deep within my heart. It helped me to understand someone I care about who was abused in a similar fashion, and it opened my eyes to why she’s so defensive and hard to love. Love requires opening oneself up, being vulnerable, and April McGowan brought that to life in Jasmine. I now know not to take it personally, and not to give up. So, not only was this a great story, it was a life lesson. Thank you, April, for an amazing read.
I had a hard time putting this book down. And when I thought I knew where the story was going, the author flipped me for a loop! Not only was this well-written, the story really touched a cord deep within my heart. It helped me to understand someone I care about who was abused in a similar fashion, and it opened my eyes to why she’s so defensive and hard to love. Love requires opening oneself up, being vulnerable, and April McGowan brought that to life in Jasmine. I now know not to take it personally, and not to give up. So, not only was this a great story, it was a life lesson. Thank you, April, for an amazing read.
August 12, 2013
Jasmine is a story that captures my heart and takes me on a journey of self-discovery with the woman this book is named after. Through the twists and turns, anticipations and disappointments, I found myself counting the moments until I could get back to the story, disappointed by interruptions of life. When I read the last paragraph I was thrilled by the outcome but longing for another page to turn, another chapter to read. Thank you for the adventure, April!
March 17, 2014
*I edited this book*
I've read a lot of "can't go home again--but have to" books. I've read a lot of books where the characters have overcome a tough childhood. But I loved how those elements came together in this one, and how Jasmine has to face her issues, her family, her old friends...and her sins. She comes away with a strength that is so inspiring!
I've read a lot of "can't go home again--but have to" books. I've read a lot of books where the characters have overcome a tough childhood. But I loved how those elements came together in this one, and how Jasmine has to face her issues, her family, her old friends...and her sins. She comes away with a strength that is so inspiring!
August 5, 2013
This debut novel had me flipping through the pages, hoping to find out what would happen next. McGowan kept the pace up throughout...even in the middle (which is often difficult). She wrote with heart and dignity. This is a good read for when you have time to soak in the story. Highly recommended!
April 29, 2014
I read the book over the course of a weekend. I could not put it down! The story is well written and draws you into the characters and their stories.
March 30, 2021
A Beautiful Story
Such a beautiful story of love, healing and faith.
I found the story very engaging and could not put it down. I also felt that the author handled a difficult topic sensitively and very authentically.
I loved the characters. Not just the main characters but the supporting characters as well. All were believable and memorable.
Such a beautiful story of love, healing and faith.
I found the story very engaging and could not put it down. I also felt that the author handled a difficult topic sensitively and very authentically.
I loved the characters. Not just the main characters but the supporting characters as well. All were believable and memorable.
November 28, 2017
The past can affect the future. In this emotional story, the author gives the reader characters with depth, honesty and courage while giving hope for the future. Bring the tissues. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and this is my personal honest opinion.
Want to read
July 11, 2018This is a good book! I am really enjoying the book! The author does a great job of keeping you interested in the book. The main characters are very realistic and relatable.
I received a review copy of this book! No positive review was required. My opinion is my own and is honest.
I received a review copy of this book! No positive review was required. My opinion is my own and is honest.
March 17, 2018
Very inspirational book.
March 10, 2014
April McGowan’s debut novel, Jasmine, is a must-read! Had I not seen her brief bio on the cover, I would have anticipated that this was written by a seasoned, multi-published author. April immediately pulls one into the world of Jazz, a woman who counsels young women who are “at-risk” – girls who live on the street, or are on drugs, or have endured physical or sexual abuse – to help them have a better life. Jazz knew what she was doing, what would happen to the girls if they did not have redirection. She had run away from home when she was 14, a victim of sexual abuse at the hands of her father.
Jazz, named Jasmine at birth, was contacted by an attorney’s office after her mother passed away requesting that she return for the reading of the will. It stated that her father had died about ten years prior. The attorney signing the letter was none other than her childhood best friend, the one she abandoned without so much as an explanation or a goodbye.
Jazz headed for the place of the early years of her life with promises to stay in close contact with Brandi, the woman she worked for. Brandi was also her friend, counselor and mentor, and knew better than anyone what that trip could cost.
With great wisdom and skill, April leads us on a journey with Jazz where she had to face not only her worst memories, but those people and situations that she had forgotten or blocked from her conscious mind. April shows with incredible sensitivity the emotions that Jazz had put on hold for many long years, including betrayal, aching emptiness, shame, even rage – and how Jazz is willing to cut herself off again from family and old friends to avoid looking into the deepest parts of her shredded spirit. Yet for her own healing, is it the best thing to do – as it is no longer the easiest, nor the safest.
I highly recommend this book! My heart ached, grieved, even feared through this novel – April McGowan has a true gift from the Lord for writing, for understanding the human heart, and for demonstrating what the Lord can do in the most painful situations of life. Typically I would anticipate any great non-fiction work to be one that does not leave the reader unchanged. Jasmine, a work of fiction reflective of that which is played out in cities across America today, also does not leave the reader unchanged.
Jazz, named Jasmine at birth, was contacted by an attorney’s office after her mother passed away requesting that she return for the reading of the will. It stated that her father had died about ten years prior. The attorney signing the letter was none other than her childhood best friend, the one she abandoned without so much as an explanation or a goodbye.
Jazz headed for the place of the early years of her life with promises to stay in close contact with Brandi, the woman she worked for. Brandi was also her friend, counselor and mentor, and knew better than anyone what that trip could cost.
With great wisdom and skill, April leads us on a journey with Jazz where she had to face not only her worst memories, but those people and situations that she had forgotten or blocked from her conscious mind. April shows with incredible sensitivity the emotions that Jazz had put on hold for many long years, including betrayal, aching emptiness, shame, even rage – and how Jazz is willing to cut herself off again from family and old friends to avoid looking into the deepest parts of her shredded spirit. Yet for her own healing, is it the best thing to do – as it is no longer the easiest, nor the safest.
I highly recommend this book! My heart ached, grieved, even feared through this novel – April McGowan has a true gift from the Lord for writing, for understanding the human heart, and for demonstrating what the Lord can do in the most painful situations of life. Typically I would anticipate any great non-fiction work to be one that does not leave the reader unchanged. Jasmine, a work of fiction reflective of that which is played out in cities across America today, also does not leave the reader unchanged.
May 3, 2014
***well-developed characters portray the cost of abuse and victimization***
"Jasmine," April McGowan's debut fiction set in Portland, Oregon is a narrative of inspiration forged in the fires of abuse, homelessness and sex trafficking. Her character-driven story reveals the depths of the Father's love for the "most broken and hurting," who by God's grace find the courage to escape victimization on the streets. Although the story is fiction the facts behind the story are heartbreaking (note statistics link at review's end).
Readers first meet Jasmine, now known as Jazz, in her role as counselor for "at-risk young women." She's waiting for Officer Banner to finish his rape interview with Misty, a teen she had recently placed in a group home. Exhausted from too many calls like this, Jazz slid down the wall to rest on the floor, back against the wall, arms on her knees, lost in dark memories of her own life on the streets.
She was fourteen when she ran away from home and Misty reminded her of herself. Only she had run away to the carnival gypsy lady she worked for over the summer. She knew Fiona would keep her safe and protect her. When Fiona died about a year later Jazz left the carnival for the streets of Olympia. She knew all too well what had happened to Misty. That had been her life until she met Brandi, a counselor and mentor who helped her get off the streets and encouraged her to go to school.
Now a trained counselor…Full Review: http://www.examiner.com/list/jasmine-...
"Jasmine," April McGowan's debut fiction set in Portland, Oregon is a narrative of inspiration forged in the fires of abuse, homelessness and sex trafficking. Her character-driven story reveals the depths of the Father's love for the "most broken and hurting," who by God's grace find the courage to escape victimization on the streets. Although the story is fiction the facts behind the story are heartbreaking (note statistics link at review's end).
Readers first meet Jasmine, now known as Jazz, in her role as counselor for "at-risk young women." She's waiting for Officer Banner to finish his rape interview with Misty, a teen she had recently placed in a group home. Exhausted from too many calls like this, Jazz slid down the wall to rest on the floor, back against the wall, arms on her knees, lost in dark memories of her own life on the streets.
She was fourteen when she ran away from home and Misty reminded her of herself. Only she had run away to the carnival gypsy lady she worked for over the summer. She knew Fiona would keep her safe and protect her. When Fiona died about a year later Jazz left the carnival for the streets of Olympia. She knew all too well what had happened to Misty. That had been her life until she met Brandi, a counselor and mentor who helped her get off the streets and encouraged her to go to school.
Now a trained counselor…Full Review: http://www.examiner.com/list/jasmine-...
April 29, 2014
April McGowan does a great job exploring a tough issue in this well balanced story. The book has strong character and plot development with realistic conflict and resolution. There is just the right amount of emotion and good spiritual emphasis. The pacing held my interest -- I stayed up to finish reading!
October 20, 2015
Wow, this book brought me to tears more than once and had me smirking at other times. I also got so frustrated with the main characters stubborn heart but understood why it was that way. I really hope the word gets out on this book because it touches you. I struggled with it in the beginning and then at some point couldn't put it down. Love that. I look forward to more from this new author.....
July 9, 2014
Wonderful book! The author tackles a tough topic and does so with a skilled hand. I literally couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting. Beautiful story of healing and redemption. Well done. :)
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews