Dragonfly Summer

by Valerie Howard

Life can change in the blink of an eye.

Dani wants nothing more than to keep teaching the sweet children she loves in the special ed classroom at the elementary school, but with her mental health deteriorating at an alarming rate, that dream seems out of reach. And when she accepts her teenage sister's emotional plea to travel across the country to visit, Dani knows the secrets and nightmares she left behind are lurking around the corner, threatening to consume her.

Tom Lavine recently left prison after a decades-long stint, and he doesn't know where—or if—his aging self fits into this world anymore. God's forgiveness is one thing, but society doesn't look kindly upon people like him. When a former cellmate reaches out to Tom to let him know he recently discovered a grave marker carved with a familiar name, Tom knows he must make the long trek to visit the cemetery to find closure. Maybe confirming he really is the monster everyone thinks he is will finally put to rest the crazy idea his chaplain planted in his mind about applying to ministry school someday.

When Dani and Tom meet on the train, they forge an unlikely friendship and help each other navigate the day-to-day logistics of cross-country travel while opening up about the lingering pain of past mistakes. Long-held beliefs are challenged as they discuss their individual issues, worries, and the devastating moments that changed them forever. And just when healing seems within reach, both lives are upended when Dani and Tom come face-to-face with their greatest fears.

Fans of Lisa Wingate, Sara Brunsvold, Amanda Cox, and Katie Powner will also enjoy the true-to-life characters and faith-driven stories written by Valerie Howard. Available in Kindle, paperback, and hardcover formats. Audiobook coming soon!

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Endorsements:

“I’m a sucker for contemporary stories that feature unlikely friendships, so I was delighted to read Valerie Howard’s book Dragonfly Summer. I loved how the journey both main characters had to take and the lesson they each had to learn were made richer and more life-changing as a result of the characters’ lives intertwining. I also appreciated the unflinching honesty with which Howard depicted her characters’ struggles. This well-written, well-paced story is resonant and thought-provoking, and I highly recommend it to readers who love books such as The Edge of Belonging by Amanda Cox and The Divine Proverb of Streusel by Sara Brunsvold.”
-Katie Powner, Christy Award-winning author of Birds on a Wire

“Dragonfly Summer is a brave and vulnerable look at the different types of struggles that want us to believe there's no hope of overcoming them. Yet, it's also a resilient battle cry of deliverance and healing from shame and mental health disorders, through two characters who embark on a hard but holy journey. With a relatable cast, deep themes, and a faith-filled narrative, Dragonfly Summer is the perfect read for anyone who's feeling lost and needs some fresh hope.”
-Caitlin Miller, award-winning author of The Memories We Painted and Our Yellow Tape Letters

“Valerie Howard's books never fail to look true-to-life situations in the eye, and Dragonfly Summer is no exception. Mental health issues abound in today's world, and we need good Christian Fiction that addresses it. Through the eyes of a Christian and a non-Christian, this book peers into the daily struggle to think Biblically. Not just about God but about ourselves. Especially if you know someone who experiences OCD, this book provides helpful insight and encouragement to reject unhelpful and untrue thoughts.”
- D.T. Powell, Author of With Mercy’s Eyes


Editorial Review:

"Dragonfly Summer is a unique friendship story that beautifully illustrates the redemptive power of reaching out for help in our darkest moments and the healing found in reaching out in compassion in the midst of our own brokenness."
- Bethany Fehr, Editor

Genres: Contemporary

Unknown Binding

Published May 3, 2026

About the author

Valerie Howard
Contemporary Women's Christian Fiction
"Real women. Tough issues. Powerful God."

Valerie's goal in writing is to bring people closer to Jesus one chapter at a time.

Valerie has been writing stories since she was in second grade when she wrote "The Mystery of the Missing Crayon." She gave up writing mysteries soon after and now concentrates on real-life stories that tackle tough issues such as homelessness, unplanned pregnancy, family tragedy, childhood trauma, foster care, poverty, and terminal cancer. All of her books are filled with the hope and love of Christ and are uplifting and feel-good with happy, though sometimes tearful, endings as her characters overcome their obstacles with God at their side. She also writes biblical non-fiction, indie author non-fiction, children's books, allegorical fiction, and small church Christmas plays. (She's a little obsessed with writing.)

Valerie is a fan of summer, warmth, and flip-flips, so she often wonders why she lives in Maine where she is frozen for the better half of the year. But her amazing husband and adorable sons live there with her, so it's not all bad. She graduated from Bible College with a degree in Bible and Missions a long, long time ago in a state far, far away.

Reviews

[Katja Labonté · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars (4/10 hearts). This wasn't my first book by this author, but it was my first novel by her, and I loved it! It was so easy to read, and so gripping—I just had to know what would happen to Dani & Tom. I don't know much about OCD, so it was really interesting and eye-opening to read about Dani's experiences with it; and I loved seeing how both she and Tom, though for different reasons, came to realize that God is in the business of loving broken people—and Tom, especially, that your past is never too much for him and he can use all tools. Also, I gotta say I love the road trip part, especially since it was done by train—I love travelling by train 😉 the story kept me hooked all the way to the end and wrapped up so satisfactorily... and it was so easy to read! It just flowed along. Altogether, this was an awesome experience.

This book does contain more mature topics (miscarriage, accidental murder, mental health issues, drinking, smoking, drugs, attempted suicide, out-of-wedlock relationships) but there's nothing graphic and I'd recommend it for ages 14-16+, depending on the person.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*

[Valerie]

Releasing to Kindle Unlimited on May 3, 2026

I can't wait to share this book with you! Dani and Tom are some of my favorite characters so far, but they've also given me a run for my money! I hope you enjoy this book, and that it encourages you in your faith.

♥ Valerie

Endorsements:

“I’m a sucker for contemporary stories that feature unlikely friendships, so I was delighted to read Valerie Howard’s book Dragonfly Summer. I loved how the journey both main characters had to take and the lesson they each had to learn were made richer and more life-changing as a result of the characters’ lives intertwining. I also appreciated the unflinching honesty with which Howard depicted her characters’ struggles. This well-written, well-paced story is resonant and thought-provoking, and I highly recommend it to readers who love books such as The Edge of Belonging by Amanda Cox and The Divine Proverb of Streusel by Sara Brunsvold.”
-Katie Powner, Christy Award-winning author of Birds on a Wire

“Dragonfly Summer is a brave and vulnerable look at the different types of struggles that want us to believe there's no hope of overcoming them. Yet, it's also a resilient battle cry of deliverance and healing from shame and mental health disorders, through two characters who embark on a hard but holy journey. With a relatable cast, deep themes, and a faith-filled narrative, Dragonfly Summer is the perfect read for anyone who's feeling lost and needs some fresh hope.”
-Caitlin Miller, award-winning author of The Memories We Painted and Our Yellow Tape Letters


“Valerie Howard's books never fail to look true-to-life situations in the eye, and Dragonfly Summer is no exception. Mental health issues abound in today's world, and we need good Christian Fiction that addresses it. Through the eyes of a Christian and a non-Christian, this book peers into the daily struggle to think Biblically. Not just about God but about ourselves. Especially if you know someone who experiences OCD, this book provides helpful insight and encouragement to reject unhelpful and untrue thoughts.”
-D.T. Powell, Author of With Mercy’s Eyes

Editorial Review:

"Dragonfly Summer is a unique friendship story that beautifully illustrates the redemptive power of reaching out for help in our darkest moments and the healing found in reaching out in compassion in the midst of our own brokenness."
Bethany Fehr, Editor at impactfictionediting.com

[Katie Powner]

I’m a sucker for contemporary stories that feature unlikely friendships, so I was delighted to read Valerie Howard’s book Dragonfly Summer. I loved how the journey both main characters had to take and the lesson they each had to learn were made richer and more life-changing as a result of the characters’ lives intertwining. I also appreciated the unflinching honesty with which Howard depicted her characters’ struggles. This well-written, well-paced story is resonant and thought-provoking, and I highly recommend it to readers who love books such as The Edge of Belonging by Amanda Cox and The Divine Proverb of Streusel by Sara Brunsvold.

[jayleen]

⭐️4.8 Stars!!!⭐️

First off, if you’re contemplating reading this book or have it on your tbr, PLEASE READ IT once you can!!!

This book was a really nice book. It felt refreshing to read. I have never read a Christian book (until now) that really gets into the head of someone who struggles with a really intense, debilitating, and scary mental illness. I thought the author did a really good job of representing this character and her struggles.

I am really grateful and honored I got to read and review the story before it was out!

[D.T. Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was privileged to read an early copy of this. I don't get to read much Christian Fiction that deals directly with mental health issues, so I enjoyed getting to see that handled head-on throughout Dragonfly Summer.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

ENDORSEMENT:

If you're looking for thoughtful Christian fiction that breaks the mold, you need to read Dragonfly Summer!

In this book, Howard beautifully weaves together two unique perspectives. Dani’s storyline doesn’t gloss over the effects OCD can have on day-to-day activities and self worth, and I particularly appreciated the inclusion of exposure therapy. Tom’s journey is an equally candid portrayal of a man learning to live free from prison bars and guilt.

Dragonfly Summer has just the blend of honesty and hope I look for in this genre! It's one of those touching stories that will stick with you for a long time.

[Alison Nolen · Rating 5 out of 5]

*This review currently reflects my beta read & let me just say that even in its early stages, this has to be my favorite story by Valerie so far! I couldn’t stop reading!
I learned a lot & enjoyed the spontaneous bond this train ride builds. Such lovable MCs & enthralling mystery surrounding them. I can’t say I’ve been emotionally invested in a story to this level before.
I will happily be re-reading the published version when it releases & my full review will follow.
If you love a good drama that can gracefully tackle tough issues, mark your calendars for Dragonfly Summer next year!

[Catherine Chatmon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life-changing Dragonfly Days

Dragonfly days when things change in the blink of a moment… Dani had her own dragonfly day at the age of eight when a tragic accident led to the crippling of her baby sister. As soon as possible she fled from her family and the secrets that had engulfed them. This has led to intense mental suffering. Tom, an ex-con, has spent twenty nine years behind bars is now trying to integrate into society because of his own dragonfly day.

Providentially, the two meet on a cross country train trip and find that their ways intersect in ways neither of them dreamed. Each of them harbor a secret that they consider too dark for sharing, but ultimately they spill their troubles to each other. Enroute, Dani puts a name to her troubling thoughts and begins to work toward resolution and the repairing of her relationship with her younger sister. Through well drawn characters and a seemless storyline, Valerie keeps the reader engaged and gives vital information on OCD, erasing the stigma associated with this disorder. She also gives the message very clearly that everyone is valuable, and no lives are beyond redemption. Dragonfly days are not a waste but are for the glory of God.

[Joy Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first time I heard the name of this book, I wanted to read it. What I didn't know is how much it would touch my heart. This might have been the first book that I have read from this author, but will not be the last. The way the author describes the feelings of the main characters, I felt the same emotions as I was reading. The description of what it is like being released from prison after thirty years and struggling with the learning how to live outside of prison walls, gave me a lot to think about and opened my eyes to how ex-cons try to fit back into society. Then you have Dani that is struggling with her own issues in the present and the past. What happens when Dani and Tom meets on a train ride across the country, will have you wanting to reach in the book and give them a hug. This story touches on some tough subjects but Redemption is the main theme to me. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are what I thought of the book.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dragonfly Summer is different from other stories I've read. It's about two people who meet on a train. One is an ex-con, the other is suffering from OCD, but isn't sure what is wrong with her. She has anxiety attacks.

The story put the two characters, Dani and Tom, together at a strange time in their lives. Tom is learning to lean on his faith, and Dani isn't a believer. I liked the storyline and was surprised several times when strange circumstances affected both of them. It's a story about relationships, mistrust, and lies, but also how God can work miracles in our lives.

I found myself rooting for Dani and Tom as they struggled to make sense of their lives and what that meant. It will pull at your heartstrings, but is very inspirational and uplifting. Loved the ending.

I received a complimentary ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ Dragonfly Summer by Valerie Howard is a wonderful contemporary Christian fiction read about forgiveness and redemption. It highlights the difficulties experienced by those re-entering society after incarceration, as well as those facing mental health challenges.

I enjoyed the friendship that develops between the two main characters as they travel across the country by train. Their inner struggles seem true to life, especially in the way they speak to themselves. We really can be our own worst enemy. The story keeps you turning the pages to find out what will happen to them, and I enjoyed the surprising twist.

I appreciate the vulnerability that went into writing this story. If you tend to skip it, I definitely recommend reading the Author’s Note.

[Brianna Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a beautiful book with a powerful story of grief, forgiveness, and grace. 
Tom and Dani’s journeys are both full of so much heartbreak and hurt, and so much growth and hope. 
I didn't want to stop reading it. The suspense of waiting to unwind each character's past and full story for how and why they behaved the way they did and begin the journey to healing was very well done. 

Content: no language, no explicit content, no romance, mentions of smoking, drinking, abuse, attempted suicide, intrusive thoughts, and self harm, all depicted tactfully. 

I received a ARC of this book, I was not required to give a good review.

[Linda Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a gripping story about Dani and Tom who meet on a train. They have each had, and still have particular challenges in life. The book clearly highlights how God is very much concerned, and loving towards broken people in this world. A Christian author who tackles the issue of debilitating mental health and it’s varied manifestation with sensitivity, honesty and hope.
Highly recommend.

[Amy Hagerup · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an exceptionally, well-written Christian fiction. The main characters are described well and the reader truly gets to know their problems and how they are struggling. I appreciated learning more about OCD and also what the challenges can be with re-entering society after prison. The character of Tom's mentor and his wife was also impactful. Highly recommend.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was blessed to be able to read this book in advance. I think EVERYONE should read it!!! It is educational and a great story with a very powerful message. Very well done!!!