Stronger than the Storm

by Deena Adams

A runaway teen. A wife’s devastating secret. A family’s reckoning.

Beth Holbrook has dedicated her life to helping families thrive. As a pastor’s wife, mother of three, and respected parenting coach, she teaches others how to raise children who love God and make wise choices.

Then her daughter runs away.

Tired of living under her parents’ overbearing rules, eighteen-year-old Leesa leaves home determined to live life on her own terms. But when her choices lead to consequences she never expected, she’s faced with a future she’s not prepared for.

Meanwhile, Beth’s carefully constructed life begins to unravel. Tension grows in her marriage, wounds from her past resurface, and the secret she’s hidden for nineteen years threatens to sever the tenuous threads holding her family together.

When a powerful hurricane barrels toward their Virginia Beach home, the Holbrooks must confront the storm within their own walls.

Will confession and forgiveness heal the damage… or will the truth tear their family apart?

Genres: Christian, Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Inspirational, Womens Fiction, Marriage

398 pages, Paperback

Published April 28, 2026

About the author

"...The author’s ability to create fluid conversations in tense situations makes this book a compelling meditation on family and faith." Reader's Favorite Review snippet for Stronger than the Storm

Connect with Deena through her website: https://deenaadams.com

As a Jesus girl for over thirty years, and a pastor’s wife for most of those, Deena Adams has a wealth of experience counseling women who’ve navigated unimaginable adversity. Through these interactions she’s gained great insight into topics women relate to, which fuels her passion to inspire others through hope-filled fiction based on true-life stories.

Three-and-a-half years as a Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer and completion of the Certified Mental Health Coach program through Light University have equipped her to write stories that address deep family-related themes with authenticity, wisdom, and compassion.

She is an active ACFW member, a six-year ACFW Virginia board member, and founder of the Marathon online writers group. Her writing awards include: 2019 Foundations Award finalist, 2019 ACFW First Impressions double finalist and winner, 2021 ACFW Genesis finalist and ACFW Virginia Crown Award winner, 2022 Cascade Award finalist, 2023 ACFW First Impressions finalist, 2024 ACFW Genesis double semi-finalist and winner, 2024 Foundations Award finalist, 2025 ACFW Genesis finalist, 2026 Firebird winner, Christian Market Book Awards 2026 Contemporary Novel of the Year, Five-Star Readers Favorite, and American Fiction Awards Religious Fiction winner. She also enjoys promoting hope-filled fiction authors on her blog.

Deena lives with her husband near the coast in beautiful Virginia. When she’s not writing, reading, or serving in her church, you’ll find her hanging out with family and friends, playing board games, and doting on her seven grandchildren.

Reviews

[Cindy aka "The Book Fairy" · Rating 5 out of 5]

This...was...so deep! I would at times feel for the teen girl as she felt so frustrated and alone as her and her family were at odds, she wasn't popular or noticed then for the folks who were dealing with her. Those emotionally draining years with teens and young adults too; can certainly try one's heart and bring us to our knees in prayer many times. They are often so vulnerable to feeling attention and desired, to be with an in crowd.....This story brought me to tears as relatable in many ways with them feeling broken and thinking the grass is greener on the other side while parents also feel lost with worry and concern knowing their child is headed down a scary path..... There are triggers which she forewarns us readers yet it wasn't left without hope for the prodigals and parents of them with reading how none of us are perfect but the Lord helps guide and comforts us;never forgetting the wayward child either.... WE all need strength from one another for not one family always has it all together all the time! Adultery is another theme along with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Many emotions and aspects with realistic, gripping storytelling indeed with a reliance on God prevalent. A marvelous book ,especially for a debut author besides that was encouraging to me to examine my own self in being a better mother as possible. Worth reading :)

[Jacquelyn 💐 {This Rapunzel Reads} [Jesus Christ, my Living Hope]]

I almost don’t want to put that I even read part of this book. 🤢 I just want to forget it completely. It was a MESS! It made me uncomfortable and disgusted from the start. Other people might have different opinions, but this is mine. Overall, it made me feel dirty.

[Katie Powner]

I've always loved prodigal stories, especially ones that are filled with biblical truth, such as Stronger than the Storm. This book follows an imperfect and broken family struggling to learn, love, grow, and restore with the help of the Lord and His Word. I could see myself in the pages, and I loved that the characters felt honest and authentic. This is a moving and inspiring story that reminded me to never give up hope for the prodigals in my own life. For fans of books such as Swimming in the Deep End by Christina Suzann Nelson and This Promised Land by Cathy Gohlke.

[Robin Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was honored to read and endorse this beautiful story that shows what hurts, helps, and ultimately heals the heart of a family. Adams uses a deft, yet gentle hand to communicate powerful truths through the lives of her fictional characters. Rich, compelling, entertaining, this debut is hard to put down. Well done!

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

“When we give our regrets over to God, He can redeem them in ways we could never imagine.“

Deena Adams’ debut novel Stronger than the Storm beautifully tells a tender story of God’s faithfulness amid one family’s brokenness. Beth and her pastor-husband Kevin find themselves in the middle of an emotional & spiritual hurricane that threatens to knock their home off the foundation they’ve been building on for years. The heartache caused by their 18-year-old middle child Leesa’s harmful choices reveals the cracks in their own marriage, priorities, and walks with God, not to mention their parenting and reputations. For her own part, Leesa quickly realizes her rebellion has consequences, including perhaps-permanently damaging her relationship with her younger sister. I don’t know many families who haven’t been touched by the anguish of having a prodigal child or a difficult season in their marriage. For that reason, the Holbrooks will feel relatable to most readers, with deep spiritual truth on these pages that may be exactly what you need to apply to your own situation.

I definitely saw parts of myself reflected in Beth and her youngest daughter Megan, especially Megan, and I’m unfortunately not talking about their strengths lol. I wish I could say I was like the oldest Holbrook child Tyler but alas I related more to Megan’s reaction toward Leesa than I did his. Beth’s need to control – and her reaction when life feels uncontrollable – also hit close to home for me, and I thought Deena Adams captured all the layers to Beth’s narrative so poignantly. Being able to see Kevin’s POV as well as Beth’s and Leesa’s gave me a well-rounded perspective on the big picture of this story but also helped me put myself in the shoes of someone whose decisions I might not otherwise have understood or may have been too quick to judge. Leesa’s journey in particular is not one that I was tempted to follow in my late teens but oh how God still pointed out to me that, while my actions may not have mirrored hers, my attitudes certainly did. And sometimes still do. I love fiction that challenges me in my own spiritual walk even as it keeps me invested in the lives of the characters it portrays, and this novel definitely did both.

Bottom Line: Stronger than the Storm by Deena Adams thoughtfully holds a broken family up to the light of grace and tells a powerful story of prodigals, secrets, forgiveness, and a faithful God who holds us fast in the hurricane of unexpected heartbreak. It’s tender, it’s honest, it’s convicting, and it’s redemptive, and I look forward to seeing where this series takes the Holbrook family from here. The author doesn’t gloss over the sin and struggles in this novel but she also doesn’t present them gratuitously or for shock value and is discreet about the details she gives. I loved the reminder that God can redeem even the worst messes we’ve created and the most painful damages from the storms in our own lives. Stronger than the Storm would be a great next read for fans of Robin W. Pearson, Katie Powner, and Sara Brunsvold!

(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read via Kindle Unlimited)

first reviewed at Reading is My SuperPower

[Kyle Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book originally as an encouragement to Deena, who I know. When I started it, honestly I couldn't put it down. There's a lot going on in this novel and it grips all your emotions. Deena wove everything together is such a gripping yet encouraging way. Bravo, Deena! I loved your book!

[Deborah Raney]

Deena Adams’s debut novel offers up a family that readers will fall in love with—not despite their flaws, but because of them. The Holbrooks endure heart-wrenching circumstances, but they discover the hope Christ can give in the fiercest storm, and that makes all the difference for generations to come.

[Linda Dindzans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stronger Than the Storm is one of those rare novels that combines a compelling story with characters who feel utterly real. Deena Adams has crafted a cast of flawed, layered people whose struggles, choices, and growth kept me deeply invested from beginning to end.
The story drew me in quickly and refused to let go. Just when I thought I knew where things were headed, new challenges and revelations kept the pages turning. Yet the true strength of this novel lies not merely in its plot, but in its emotional depth. The characters wrestle with wounds, relationships, and questions of faith in ways that feel authentic rather than contrived.
I especially appreciated the skill with which Adams developed her characters. They are multi-dimensional, believable, and transformed by their journeys in ways that feel both satisfying and true.
This is a story of resilience, redemption, and hope that does not shy away from life's hardest storms. I found myself thinking about these characters long after I turned the final page.
If you enjoy Christian fiction with richly drawn characters, meaningful themes, and a story that keeps you eagerly turning pages, I highly recommend Stronger Than the Storm. This is a story that points the reader back to the only One who can calm the storm.

[Rachel Blanchard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stronger than the Storm is a multi-POV Christian fiction novel switching between a married couple and their young prodigal daughter. Based on the author's own experience, I found the story to be realistic and emotional, covering sensitive topics such as abuse, unplanned pregnancy, adultery, and secrets.
Characters' struggles are not glossed over as they grapple with challenges in conflicting ways. But the overall themes of letting go of fear, changing perspective, forgiving, accepting accountability, and living with authenticity ring true and encouraging. I quickly grew to care for the characters and had to keep reading to make sure they turned out okay!

Here are a few of my favorite quotes:

"The Lord’s faithfulness and love she’d taught about for years weren’t just words. They were real. Tangible. She needed to seize the truth and hold on with all her might."

“God’s power can turn messes into ministry and trials into a testimony when we entrust our hurts to him."

*I received an early copy from the author as part of the launch team. A positive review was not required!

[Cheryl]

Have you ever spent time with a Christian friend who is deeply suffering and met Christ in a new and profound way?

This is what happens when you read "Stronger than the Storm"! I adore Deena Adams as a fellow sister in Christ ... but now I absolutely love her heart for the Lord that wrote this amazingly deep, profound, and yet simple novel of forgiveness!

It is to come alongside a hurting individual and learn from their mistakes. Their victories.

And I admit I got teary-eyed because Deena writes so heart-felt that it must come from her heart. More than a journey of faith, "Stronger than the Storm" is a companion tool for someone who is going through a painful season. A self-help book in narrative form.

I have three whole pages of quotes alone! I'll need to put them on my wall as reminders that God never gives up on me. NEVER!

Thank you, Deena, for writing. (Congrats on being published!!!!) And I CANNOT WAIT for the next book in the Holbrook series!!!

[Jen Dodrill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartwarming and so much truth

Storms come and when they do, well, we need to do more than hold on. Holding tight to Jesus is what this author showed in so many ways in this book. As the parent of a prodigal, I appreciate the Godly insight and encouragement. And as one who has weathered many storms, I know its true that God truly brings good things even from the hardest times.

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

“God’s power can turn messes into ministry and trials into a testimony when we entrust our hurts to him. I’m living proof.”

Stronger Than the Storm by Deena Adams is a women’s fiction story I found more relatable than I would like. My family’s situation was not the same in many respects, yet I understood the pressure of living in a glass house because of being in a pastor’s family. Both Kevin, a pastor, and his wife, Beth, have hopes for the future based on their performance- Kevin hopes to advance to senior pastor of the church, and Beth hopes to publish her first book as a parenting expert.

Their dreams begin to crash around them like the winds of the hurricane that later attack the house. Their oldest daughter runs away, and when she does return, continues to make life choices that are both hurtful and dangerous. I found it interesting that Beth is the strict parent who wants firm rules and apologies from the errant young adult child. “God is full of grace and love, but His Word makes it clear there are consequences for sin. How will Leesa ever learn from her mistakes if we rescue her at every turn?” Kevin, much easier going, would rather “err on the side of grace.” “I’m more willing to offer grace and unconditional love.” And he does! Guess which parent Leesa gravitates towards? I wonder, if, in many marriages, there is a child-rearing theory conflict like this, each thinking themselves following God’s will and Word?

Things gets worse and stormier before they get better. The family is on the verge of total collapse. A secret kept for years. A grief that almost kills the marriage. I loved the fact that the two consider a Christian counselor to help. But one still needs to listen to any sound advice, pray a lot, and determine to obey God. Both Kevin and Beth are amazed by what they find when they take a look at their individual hearts. Will they have the strength to pursue reparation for their marriage and family? What about Leesa, who feels her life has ended before it has barely begun?

Isaac, Megan, Tyler, Jackson, and Teresa are all secondary characters with major influences on the three main characters. I love how accepting and helpful Jackson and Teresa are especially, but all are essential in this family drama.

Highly recommended! For mature readers, but possibly teens, depending on their exposure. For church people, to see what their expectations and gossip can do to their leaders. For leaders, to carefully re-evaluate the inner motives and transparency. And, of course, for parents of prodigals! Discussion questions at the end would make this book ideal for a book club.

I received a copy of the book from the author and publisher. I also pre-ordered my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Perhaps embracing every seemingly insignifcant moment with those you love transforms normal into extraordinary.”

“You know going against God’s Word is never His plan, but He can and will use anything for good. Even our worst mess-ups.” - Jackson

“We all need second chances … and third, fourth, and "fifth.” - Kevin

“I’m learning relatability is more important than a perfect reputation. It’s hard to point people to hope if we hide our messy stuff.” - Beth

“We do what we think is right in the moment. If we learn from our mistakes, they’re never wasted”…“When we give our regrets over to God, He can redeem them in ways we could never imagine.” - Beth

[Joan C Benson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of Stronger than the Storm from the author, and I could not wait to dive in. The topic engaged me from the beginning as an experienced mom of four now-grown kids.

Oh, yes, I am acquainted with how raising teens can be challenging. The "kids" don't always agree with their parents -- on many issues. When you add a family's biblical worldview left to "compete" in a non-biblical world culture, that up's the anty a thousand-fold. We see that clash in this novel. It is a realistic struggle as we know from the onset of recorded history, children have not always followed their parents' teachings, including Adam and Eve!

So, with great expectation, I began reading. It was not hard to keep turning the pages, and when I didn't have time to read more, I was reluctant to lay it down. I needed to know just how far off track the Holbrook's daughter would go before she came to her senses, hopefully like the Prodigal! I also wanted to discover how the parents would deal with this embarrassing rebellion and its impact on their reputation and ministries.

The author writes well-crafted dialogue that allows you to jump into the scenes, feeling the emotions of the characters. The action scenes keep you looking for more action. What's next?

Stronger than the Storm carries a banner of hope for its readers because this story is so much more than a family drama. It is, indeed, a story of God's caring concern, and provision no matter our struggle.

[Susan Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Powerful and Unforgettable Story of Family, Faith, and Redemption.

This was one of those books that completely pulled me in from the first chapter and refused to let go. What begins as the story of a seemingly perfect Christian family quickly unfolds into a deeply emotional and thought-provoking journey filled with heartbreak, difficult choices, hidden secrets, and ultimately, hope.

Beth Holbrook is a character I won't soon forget. As a pastor's wife and parenting coach, she spends her life helping other families navigate challenges, yet she finds herself facing a crisis within her own home when her daughter, Leesa, runs away. The author does an outstanding job portraying the pressure Beth feels as a mother, wife, and public figure who is expected to have all the answers. Her struggles felt authentic and relatable, making it impossible not to empathize with her.

Leesa's storyline was equally compelling. Her desire for independence and freedom is something many young adults can understand, but watching the consequences of her decisions unfold was both heartbreaking and eye-opening. The emotional depth in her journey made her feel like a real person rather than simply a character on a page.

What impressed me most was how skillfully the author explored family relationships. The tension between parents and children, the strain on a marriage, and the impact of long-buried secrets were all handled with honesty and sensitivity. The secret Beth has carried for nineteen years added an extra layer of suspense that kept me eagerly turning pages, wondering how everything would ultimately come to light.
The hurricane approaching Virginia Beach served as a brilliant metaphor for the emotional storm brewing within the Holbrook family. As the external danger intensified, so did the internal conflicts, creating a sense of urgency and emotional investment that made the story difficult to put down.

Beyond the drama and suspense, this book delivers a powerful message about grace, forgiveness, and the importance of truth. It reminds readers that no family is perfect, that mistakes can have lasting consequences, and that healing often begins with honesty. The faith elements were woven naturally into the story and added depth without overwhelming the narrative.
This is a beautifully written novel that will resonate with readers who enjoy family dramas, Christian fiction, and stories of redemption. The characters are memorable, the emotions are genuine, and the lessons are meaningful. I finished this book feeling encouraged, reflective, and grateful for the journey.

Highly recommended for anyone who loves heartfelt stories about family, forgiveness, and the power of God's grace. A truly deserving 5-star read.

[Joy Kidney · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a story, what a storm! Not only a hurricane, but a storm building for decades within a family with secrets, which Beth, the wife and mother of three, tries to control with strict rules, because "what will people think?" Her standard church answer: I'm fine. The story is also a heads-up about considering another person or any family ideal or "perfect."

Through many messes and trials, and breaking personal strongholds, God can heal a family, along with each member. I appreciated the author notes at the end, and also the discussion questions.

[Kimberly Banet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an outstanding debut novel. The story is about the Holbrook family, made up of flawed people (like we all are) who've made their share of mistakes that impact the rest of the family and even threaten to tear their family apart. But God can redeem even the most flawed people and the worst decisions if we let him.
I'm looking forward to future books from Deena Adams.

[Krista Hennessy · Rating 5 out of 5]

fabulous

This book held my attention from start to finish. Ready for book 2!
I hope it is released very soon!

[Beth Westcott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Families, even Christian families, struggle, and the Holbrooks are no exception. Trying to make everything perfect, or at least appear perfect, Beth Holbrook almost loses everything. This novel deals with some difficult subjects, but it's a story of love, forgiveness, and hope. Stronger than the Storm reminds us that God alone has control, even when the storms of life threaten to overwhelm.

[Regina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful story

What a beautiful story of God's grace and love! I loved the growth and understanding of this family. I am excited for the next book and seeing what the Holbrook family does with the lessons they've learned.

[Jill M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what an emotional book. I highly recommend reading this book!

[Janell York · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love Karen Kingsbury novels, you will love Stronger Than the Storm.

The story is fast paced - centering around realistic flawed characters, several heart wrenching scenarios, and a great message of God’s unwavering love.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Deena Adam’s debut novel and look forward to her next book.

[Sarah Chapmon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable read, full of lovable characters with twists around each bend.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

An emotional journey through self discovery, growing in faith and in relationships through hard circumstances. This is one of those stories that you shake your head ar some of the decisions because they are such real and honest mistakes. Then you hold back tears as they struggle through the aftermath. Both Beth and her daughter Leesa have moments like those, but as they do, they discover deeper truths. With a strong faith message and a strong theme of hope, this is a perfect book to recommend here on Inspired by Fiction. I don't want to experience what either of these women did, but I do rejoice in the hope and truths they found that this book shares with its readers.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Stronger than the Storm" by Deena Adams is a novel of (real life). This was another hard book to read! But the author warns readers that this novel could be a trigger for some as it deals with a prodigal child, unplanned pregnancy adultery and life altering secrets and marital strife. And other topics. So be aware. This book definitely shows what faith can do. This novel shows that everyone has issues and God can redeem our messes. I like that this author doesn't try to tell a novel that makes Christians perfect but shows that we all need to follow and obey God. If you want a novel that is filled with real life and honestly but not told to shock readers and is discreet about the details given, then "Stronger than the Storm" by Deena Adams is worth your time it takes to read it, yes the book is 390 "Stronger than the Storm" by Deena Adams pages but I didn't feel like the book was filled with pages that was just to make the book longer, I feel like each page just added to the realist of "real life". I could quote several quotes from the book that really struck me as wow, but I won't and instead I will just say I think if you like Christian Fiction that could be just real then read this book! And to think this is her debut novel!
I received a complimentary ebook from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Julia Casselman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stronger Than the Storm by Deena Adams is a story that doesn’t just talk about love—it puts it through the fire and shows what remains.

Through the characters’ journeys, the novel explores what happens when people face real relational storms—times when they have both caused hurt and been deeply hurt. It’s along that difficult road of reconciliation that the story reveals a deeper understanding of love. Not the easy, untested kind, but the kind that has been strained, stretched, and ultimately proven.

The book also offers an honest portrayal of family. No family in the story is idealized, reflecting the truth that no person is perfect. Instead, we see how self-protection can quietly build walls around the heart. While those walls may feel safe at first, the narrative shows how they can lead to isolation and emotional suffocation. Yet, the story doesn’t leave things there—it points to hope, found in the courage to become vulnerable again.

Two moments in particular capture the heart of the message:

“…Besides, you don’t owe me anything.”
“When you love someone, it’s not about owing them. …”

and

“I can’t help but think [God’s] okay with our muddling. It shows our complete dependence on Him instead of thinking we can manage on our own.”

Both lines reflect the book’s deeper themes: love that isn’t transactional, and faith that grows not through perfection, but through dependence on God in the middle of our mess.

At the risk of sounding cliché, this is the kind of story that hits hard emotionally. It doesn’t manipulate feelings—it earns them. For readers who connect deeply with stories, this is one that lingers, pressing into the heart long after the final page.

[Traci · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fastest I've read a book in a very long time! From the start until the end it had me intrigued and curious. Having a prodigal myself, this story gives me hope.

Having the author point us to God and give us scripture references was vital to enable her readers to keep our eyes on Jesus.

Excellent debut novel.

I am an advanced reader, and was given a copy from the author. The opinions are my own.

[Wendy Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This riveting debut novel had me locked in from the start. With well-drawn characters and intense conflicts, the story demands just another page. It resonated with me because I have a wayward adult son. However, any parent will put themselves in these shoes and learn something about themselves from the journey. We all regret our mistakes. The book is gritty, real, and raw. Life is the same. God grows us the most in the midst of storms. It could be summed up in a simple sentence: The scars of sin run deep, but God's grace soothes and heals.

Beth Holbrook is elated by an offer of publication for her parenting book. As a pastor's wife and parenting coach, things are at a high point. Within the space of one day, those successes begin to crumble, when her 18-year-old daughter runs away. Leesa is on a self-destructive path. Indeed, she digs her hole deeper and deeper as the pages fly by.

Beth and her husband Kevin, like many couples parenting a prodigal, have differing opinions on the necessary response. These pages articulated the very difficulties I face in seeking the best course of action with my wayward son. They illustrate the gamut of emotions parents and prodigals experience. Will the ripples from Leesa's sin spill over to fracture Beth and Kevin's marriage? Can God bring good from hopeless, unwanted situations?

I, for one, am grateful to read a story of God's redemption that reminds me I'm not alone in this battle. Pain drives prodigals, but their pain spills over into other lives. I think that's one reason why this book is important. Sin scars the entire family. But God... works with our weaknesses to reveal His strengths, and praise God, He is stronger than any storm we face! We can count on God's providential hand to carry us when wounded and weary, and redeem us when broken and spent.

[Kari Kowalski · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely Loved This Book!

Stronger Than the Storms completely pulled me in from the very first chapter. Deena Adams has such a beautiful writing style that makes the characters feel real and relatable. The story is filled with hope, love, family, and real-life struggles that many people can connect with.

I found myself not wanting to put it down because the story flowed so naturally and kept me invested from beginning to end. The relationships were heartfelt, and the emotions felt genuine without being overdone.

This is one of those books that stays with you long after you’ve finished it. If you enjoy uplifting fiction with meaningful relationships, everyday life, and a message of hope, I highly recommend this book. I can’t wait to read more from Deena Adams!

[Audra Murray · Rating 4 out of 5]

This debut novel is one of choices and how they can reverberate even years later. Forgiveness. Faith. Love of family. Be prepared for a lot of drama involving a prodigal daughter (and more). Ms. Adams writes with depth and emotion which is why I gave this one 4 stars.

[Laura Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gritty story full of faith, grace, and redemption.
Has some difficult topics that are dealt with
Story is full of redemption and forgiveness in second chances.