The Final Victory: Shattered Bodies, Broken Dreams, The Race to Win Back Hope

by Roger Jones

A Novel Inspired by True EventsShattered BodiesBroken DreamsThe Race to Win Back HopeIn a novel that fuses the riveting action of The Boys in the Boat with the emotional heft of The Fault in Our Stars, twenty men and women with cancer-ridden bodies compete in a grueling race only to discover that real victory is achieved within.After he is diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer, Tripp Avery feels like all is lost. He finds himself coaching a team of twelve men and eight women with cancer diagnoses of their own, hoping to qualify for the Mixed Masters Dragon Boat national championship and defy their prognoses. If they win, they will represent the United States at the International Dragon Boat races in Hong Kong.But things soon get complicated, as four of his teammates struggle against their physical limitations and the psychological weight of their conditions. In the summer heat of Chattanooga, their resolve grows thin— along with Tripp' s patience. After a devastating loss to the defending national champions, Tripp can only see the finish line, and he pushes the team even harder. Soon, the team starts to fall apart.As members of the team collapse under the pressure and one is hospitalized, he must confront his own failings and find a way to move forward. He begins to question his motives, wondering if the win is worth the trauma and what that says about him. Despite the odds, he resolves to rally the team toward a comeback that seems impossible, if only for one final victory.

300 pages, Hardcover

Published April 30, 2024

Reviews

[Lydia Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is proof of the power of the human spirit and its ability to overcome even the greatest obstacles. I think this book would make a great movie. Well done to Roger Jones. Highly recommend.

[Maggie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would give this 3.5 ⭐

I enjoyed learning about Dragon Boat racing and the team's journey but I struggled connecting with the main character. At times, I almost put the book down but I persevered for the Dragon Boat story and I'm glad I did.

[Diane Sapitro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding book of human strength, stronger than I can imagine, friendship and kindnesses we would be lucky to have.

I am truly in awe of these people.

[Dawn Wallis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Final Victory is an inspirational story that explores the power of friendship and forgiveness. The author weaves a captivating tale of 20 cancer survivors who overcome their diagnoses and work together to form a competitive dragon boat team and in doing so, a family. The story, based on true events in the author's life, exemplifies the healing power and transformation found in forgiving oneself and humbly seeking the forgiveness of others. I learned a tremendous amount about neuroendocrine cancer from this book and believe anyone battling such an insidious disease would find hope and inspiration in the pages. The stubborn tenacity of the main character combined with the sheer grit and determination of the men and women who played the supporting cast caused me to be vested emotionally and kept me turning pages. The Final Victory is a journey of redemption, courage, camaraderie, and hope. Jump in the boat with these brave men and women and hold on for the race your life.

[Linda Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has been awhile since I've read a "can't put it down" book. This is one of those books that captivates you and I got so into it that I could not put it down!! The author does a great job describing the characters and scenes in such a way that you can visualize each clearly. I felt for the characters and the turmoil with which each character struggles. The main character, Tripp, is wrestling with more than just his cancer and resists this group of survivors who end up being part of what helps him break through and resolve his inner turmoils. I finished the book with a huge sigh and a smile. Definitely a feel good book and possibly a type of self help book for some! Great story! Looking forward to his next book.

[Caroline Cleveland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roger Jones has found a way to package hope and love in a (beautiful) book cover. The Final Victory is a story of finding the strength of one’s own inner self when faced with the harsh reality of a Cancer diagnosis, and the fact that the author is drawing on his own personal experience adds to the authenticity. This novel is a reminder that we are more than the sum of our bodily parts, and the soul can soar even in the darkest of hours. Kudos to Mr. Jones for an uplifting and heartfelt debut!

[Jay Ratterree · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for anyone currently going through ANY type of life altering struggle. Roger Jones's book remined my I am in control of my life. While I don't immediately control the actions of others or some things which may happen to me or my family, I certainly control how I respond and how I show grace to others and to myself. Thank you, Roger, for reminding me, every day is a great day and to cherish the gift!

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Final Victory captures the full range of emotions in the journey from cancer diagnosis, through fear, pain and adaptation, to redemption. The author's vivid description of competitive dragon boat paddling had me rocking to the drummer's beat and feeling the adrenaline rush! Kudos to Roger Jones for shining a light on this ancient yet newly discovered sport and the subculture of cancer survivor paddlers who make it so much more than a canoe race.

[Barb Cooksey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book held my attention from the first page. The characters sprang up from the page and I was rooting for all of them to survive and prosper. Based on true events, it certainly put my minor complaints in perspective. Its message is inspiring and hopeful. Working hard for a positive outcome is key. I couldn’t put down the book in the last 80 pages or so. I had to see how it ended! I wasn’t disappointed!

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Final Victory is a journey of discovery, determination and hope. You can’t help but pull for these characters as they flip the script on the cancer that has wrecked their bodies. You experience the power of their connection and join them in the boat as they transform, grow and paddle for their lives. It’s a page-turner based on true events with a message for anyone who has experienced adversity.

[Khan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an inspiring read that masterfully blends historical events with emotion depth. Mr. Jones’s storytelling brings the characters and their struggles to life making it hard to put the book down. The narrative pace is perfect at keeping readers hooked from the start to the finish. An original portrayal of resilience, courage, and triumph. This is a must read for history lovers and for fans who love compelling and heartwarming stories.

[Eileen Mandell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am breathless-Just WOW. This is Roger Jones' debut novel and it included all the pieces of a winner - desperation, hopelessness, selflessness, romance, & perseverance were included. It is the story of an extraordinary Dragon boat team. Each member of this team is actively fighting death, kemo, and cancer. I couldn't put this book about determination, secrets, the evilness of cancer, diagnosis and treatment & camaraderie down. It is a MUST READ for all about so much that we face in life.

[William Pruitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

AWESOME READ!
Roger has written an amazing book. It's a story of 20 people who are facing what seems to be insurmountable trials (physical, emotional, and mental) as individuals, yet do the impossible by becoming a team. Be prepared to experience the full gamut of emotions (love, joy, anger, etc.). I highly recommend this book.

[Grace O'Neill · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you feel like you need some inspiration in your life please read this book. Even if you don’t think you need the inspiration you do. This group of people are truly some of the most courageous men and women on earth. Their stories are powerful and I’m glad the author chose to share them with the world!

[K Scudd · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Final Victory is a genuine and emotional tale that chronicles a reality that many will face, either as someone who is diagnosed with cancer or loves someone who is.

The adventure of the dragon boaters serves as an ode to the human ability to overcome and the power of the mind. Thank you Roger Jones for the very thoughtful signed hardcover of your truly evocative work.

[Randy Smith]

A great read cover to cover. I found myself pulling as much for Tripp himself as I did for the entire team as they competed. A complex of emotions run through the storyline with ups and downs that compels you to keep turning the page. There’s no way this book won’t strike your heart.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book truly captures the excitement of dragon boat paddling and the thrill of the start line. The character's transformation from cancer patients to tenacious competitors was heart warming and inspiring. The journey left me smiling in tears.

[Teresa Hannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Final Victory " is an inspirational book based on the true story of a team of heroes overcoming incredible odds. My husband and I were moved and challenged by this powerful account of gain, loss and hope!

[Ron Borcherding · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first time I’ve read a book about dragonboating! So fun! I love that it’s based on true events! Truly incredible courage and hope displayed by the cancer survivors! Lessons for all of us about team dynamics, forgiveness, and living each moment…..in the present.

[Lynn Dion · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book was fantastic! An inspiring story of a man’s fight with cancer and his ability to fight for his life while learning so much about his-self.
A great story about love, determination and fighting for each other on a DragonBoat team!!!!
A must read!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing read you do not want to miss! I laughed, cried, & felt empowered by this book. It’s an amazing story based on true events about cancer survivors, the will to live & live fully!

[Deborah Carson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that this book is based on true events and real people. Easy to read, but a powerful story! Would make a great movie.

[Sally Garza · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Final Victory is so powerful and inspirational! This book exemplifies the meaning of hope, courage, teamwork, and the human spirit.

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highly recommend. A great education of Dragon Boat racing.

[Vicki Nieman · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the premise of the storyline- dont ever give up and with hard work and determination- one can overcome any adversity. I had a hard time connecting and liking the main character.

[Lynn Lubbe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although the book dealt with some really sad situations with cancer, I couldn’t get beyond Tripp’s selfish antics.

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story of the tremendous feat by cancer survivors deserves the four star rating. There was some repetition that contributed to the coach becoming unlikeable and narcissistic as the story progressed. But the story remains powerful based on the other characters.

[Jennifer P · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a member of a breast cancer survivor dragonboat team, this book has been passed around amongst my team to read. I loved all of the team members stories and they're beyond inspiring. Like so many said in the book, dragonboating as a survivor team is so rewarding. I see first hand how being on the team and being together changes people's lives and creates lifelong bonds. But I just couldn't get past the absolutely horrific coach. His antics were such a turnoff I was temped to DNF multiple times.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first chapter through to the end, this book will keep you engaged and wanting to know what happens next. It has many layers: the battle against cancer, teamwork, friendship, self forgiveness, setting and achieving goals, and so much more. Set to the backdrop of Dragon Boat racing, it is about a team of people battling cancer and their desire to fight for each other to win the national championship despite going through surgery and treatment. Through their different personalities and perspectives, they learn to trust and love each other, and in the process change the life of their coach for the better. This is a truly inspirational book that will take you on a journey of redemption, forgiveness, and triumph.