Michael: When A Catastrophe Answers Prayers

by Kirk Jockell

All proceeds from the sale of Michael will go to Samaritan's Purse

One was a hurricane. The other, a deceased husband. Is it really a coincidence they share the same name?

When hurricane Michael ravaged the Panhandle of Florida in 2018, it left in its wake much more than a need for survival and resilience. It brought acts of kindness and compassion that blossomed in the hearts and minds of people across the region.

This is a story based on true, actual events that prove caring and generosity can overshadow any storm’s aftermath, and how prayers can get answered.

Charlene Jones had already had many blessings bestowed upon her. But on that one day after the storm, she had an unforgettable prayer answered when a man wearing a funny looking hat leaned down to look in her passenger side car window. “Hello, miss. Are you alright?”

177 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 8, 2023

About the author

Kirk Jockell loves stories. Growing up with ADD--nobody knew what it was way back then--his imagination ran wild. Little stories constantly danced through his head. His Mom would say, “He lives in his own little world.” Over Fifty-three years later, he still does. The only exception is, now he puts his little world on paper. He wishes he had done so sooner.

Kirk sleeps most nights in Flowery Branch, Georgia but considers Port St. Joe, Florida as home. He is an avid sailor, a photographer of sailboats, and a lover of small batch bourbon. He lives with his wife Joy, Dixie, the smartest dumb dog in the world, and a black cat named Stormy that pukes a lot.

Reviews

[Janis Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

beauty from tragedy

we visited Mexico Beach in December after MICHAEL. It was heartbreaking and devastating to see what damage can be done. MB was such an iconic beautiful place and is slowly rebuilding now. But the old buildings cannot be replaced. This is a part of old Florida, untouched by the ravaging developers that are quickly ruining our beautiful state. We must limit building and expansion. Thankfully environmentally sensitive groups are saving a lot of Florida as well as expansions of more State Parks. This book gives a real insight to hurricanes and the damage and rebuilding. The human side is comforting, compassion still exists. People are good, communities and lives can be restored. Thanks, Kirk, for writing such a wonderful fictional/non fictional account.

[TJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful novel that is filled with so many emotions - found love, loyalty, empathy, and many more. Set in northwestern Florida around the devastating hurricane, Michael, Kirk Jockell weaves a terrific plot around a couple who are destined to find one another. If you want to read a book that will reinforce your belief in the power of love while renewing your faith in humanity, then read "Michael: When a Catastrophe Answers Prayers".

[wanda mcgill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Micheal “strength and love”

My favorite book! A love story and friendships that prevail and develop during a catastrophic event. I really liked the 3rd person stories of previous spouses and they’re continued love stories. As always , lots friends and stories about the good side of people. Very interesting info about the storm , devastation and people going the extra mile to help each other. Very enjoyable happy read! Another wonderful book Kirk!

[Judy Welden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although it's very difficult to write an exciting story based on true facts, Kirk Jockell managed to do exactly that with flying colors! I got so caught up in the inspiring story with such believable characters that I found it hard to put it down. It's a story for everyone, any age or background, who enjoys an honest, feel-good read that leaves you in a better mind place than before you started it! Judy Welden, author of "An Unstoppable Survivor"

[Douglas Brisotti · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story told so well

This should be a Movie of the Week (do those still exist?). If you love the sea... if you love stories based on true life... if you love love and the patience it takes to find it, this book is for you. Jockell tells the story from a very unique point of view, and does it so well. Highly, HIGHLY recommend!

[Amy Burden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Michael Story

We lived just north of Mexico Beach but moved before Michael hit. This story only touches how much people from all over did to help the recovery and the selflessness work of thousands. Americans can and do come together to help others in their hour of need. The author hit this out of the park and I highly recommend it.

[Angie Strickland · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy read that grabs you at the first page. The plot was very predictable, and about halfway through, I became a bit bored with the story line. Living near the area affected by Michael, I recognized many of the locations which kept my interest. It’s worth your time, if you like a quick clean story.

[Deborah A. Ames · Rating 5 out of 5]

uplifting story

Not at all what I expected. Just proves you can’t judge a book…. I hope this book is read by as many people as possible. I know I’ll tell all my friends to pick up a copy.

[Emil J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Story

Kirk is a good story teller and this is a good story to tell.

Once the characters developed, there was a building anticipation of a meeting. I couldn’t put it down until that occurred. Great. hook .

[Nathan (Nate) South · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not nearly as enjoyable as the Nigel Logan series. I bit too touchy-feely for my tastes. However, Kirk Jockell is a good writer who makes a story come to life, so it was worth reading.