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Never Ending Spring

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"Never Ending Spring" is an award-winning Christian mystery novel set in Elm Grove, Indiana in 1949, written by Darrell Case. This captivating tale follows the life of Jack Johnson, a man burdened by grief and running from God.

Tragedy strikes when Jack discovers his son-in-law dead and his beloved daughter, clinging to life. Devastated by these events, Jack is driven by a desperate desire for justice and embarks on a quest to uncover the identity of the killer, who has now become a threat to everything he holds dear.

As Jack delves deeper into the dark secrets and hidden motives of those around him, he finds himself confronted with a chilling reality. With each step he takes toward unraveling the mystery, danger looms ever closer, claiming another innocent life. Jack must face the demons of his past and confront his inner turmoil as he races against time to protect his family and find the killer before it’s too late.

Jack's guilt and doubt haunt him, making him question if redemption and forgiveness are possible.. As he navigates through a web of deceit and betrayal, he discovers that even in the darkest of times, God’s grace can shine through, offering hope and healing.

Darrell Case skillfully combines suspense, faith and human resilience in this captivating Christian mystery. Readers will be captivated by the vivid setting of Elm Grove and engrossed in the twists and turns of the intricate plot. The characters are richly developed, each with their own secrets and motivations, adding depth to the story’s tapestry.

“Never Ending Spring” is an emotional rollercoaster that explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the power of faith. Jack's fight to protect his loved ones and reconcile with his faith will captivate readers.

217 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 16, 2015

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About the author

Darrell Case

32 books42 followers
“I seriously doubt I would have written the first story if it had not been for a bogus literary agent. I had always thought being a writer was the greatest occupation in the world.”

Darrell Case

Darrell Case is the author of seven novels, three collections of short stories, two nonfiction books and one book for young readers. He contributes regularly to Call to Glory a daily devotional with a readership of over 33,000.

Returning from a mission’s trip to the Ukraine in 1994, Darrell received a postcard from a literary agent named Jones. He asks Darrell to send in his manuscript. The problem? Darrell had never written a book. Jones was later arrested and charged with fraud.

However, this phony literary agent’s postcard awakened a spark which had lain dormant in Darrell since high school. He started getting up at 5 a.m. to write.

Darrell completed his first novel, Never Ending Spring, in 1996. Although his novel was rejected by many publishers, his wife Connie encouraged him to keep going. Since publishing his first novel, Darrell has written 12 more books. Connie’s faith in Darrell’s writing was justified in 2020 when Author Elite Awards named Never Ending Spring as best mystery for that year.

After Connie’s passing in July 2021, Darrell retired from 40 years in the jail and prison ministry is now writing full time. His new book, a nonfiction entitle A Better Way to Live, is scheduled to be released in the spring of 2022.

 

https://darrellcase.substack.com/publish

Website - https://www.darrellcase.org/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/authorDarrel...

Twitter - https://twitter.com/DarrellCase1

Email: writercase1@frontier.com


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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
576 reviews6 followers
May 23, 2018
A Christian Story

I so enjoyed reading this story despite being very sad in many places. The death of an adored son; the murder of their daughter and son-in-law; the barn being burned down; it all added up to an inspiring read.
55 reviews2 followers
March 15, 2017
Inspirational read

I enjoyed this book, the storyline draws the reader in from the first page. It definitely tugs at the heart strings. The story revolves around the senseless murders of a beloved pastor and his wife. Their 5 year old daughter, Emily, is left to be raised by her grandparents, Jack & Ruth. These three are left reeling, trying to come to grips with this horrific tragedy. Jack is determined to get revenge for his daughter, driven to great lengths in what he feels is a justified to do so. But ultimately, this book is about Hack's struggle with God. Although Ruth has a very strong faith, he has no time for a God who has taken his loved ones from him. But Ruth and Emily never give up and fervently pray that he will accept God. I thoroughly enjoyed Jack's spiritual journey and all those he touched along the way.
123 reviews1 follower
May 10, 2013
Never Ending Spring by Darrell Case is a wonderful story of love, murder, forgiveness, and redemption. The year is 1949 and Jack Johnson is a very successful farmer in Sullivan County, Indiana and even though he really has no money worries he is a man with a troubled and grieving heart. When his five year old son was accidentally killed he blamed God for the accident. When his daughter Kristie and Jim her minister husband are murdered right at the entrance to the church, Jack almost goes off the deep end with grief and is convinced that God hates him. Jack feels that the sheriff is not working hard enough to solve the murder so he begins his own investigation which leads to the dead of an innocent man. This does not stop Jack from searching for the truth and because of this the murderer begins to plot the killing of Jack and his family. Jack’s wife Ruth and granddaughter Emily pray daily that Jack will come to accept God as his Savior and this troubles his heart. As his daughter was dying in his arms she said to him, “Jim and I will be waiting for you, Mom and Emily on Heaven’s shore” and Jack cannot get the words out of his head and heart.

The development of the plot, characters, dialogue, and scenes were extremely well done by the author. There were twists and turns to the plot including two other deaths besides the minister and his wife, a fire that was arson, and the deadly bite of a rattlesnake. All the characters were real and I would almost forget that I was reading a fictional story and not the local news. I also felt as if I were right there in the scenes when all the action was taking place. Darrell Case has a great talent for writing a suspense story. Throughout the story there were subtle hints as to the identification of the murderer but the author kept me guessing until the very end. I do not want to spoil the story for future readers so will not state if Jack came to accept Jesus as his Savior or if he did not. One thing that I really liked about the story was the way that the author kept God as a very important part of the theme of the story.

I highly recommend this book to everyone who likes a great story that just comes to life as you are reading and also has a mystery to solve. The best recommendation is that it is a Christian book with God as the center of the story.

Thank you to the author, Darrell Case, for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Jackie.
696 reviews28 followers
April 15, 2013
Review of: Never Ending Spring, by Darrell Case

A story of love, tragedy, redemption, and forgiveness.
A small-town Christian pastor and his wife are murdered in broad daylight. This young couple had no enemies. The local sheriff and deputies seem to bungle the investigation. The pastor's father-in-law, Jack Johnson, takes matters in his own hands.
Jack has denied any belief in God since the death of his young son many years ago, and now his beloved daughter has been murdered in cold blood, leaving an 8 year old daughter alone, for Jack and his wife, Ruth, to raise. Ruth, and the little girl, Emily, though devastated by their loved ones deaths, experience life and tragedy through the lens of a loving God.
This story has twists and turns, including more deaths, an arson fire, and a near-deadly snake bite. The local community has embraced the Johnson's and their granddaughter providing help in any way possible. In the end, no one can help Jack, except God Himself.
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I enjoyed the story, after the first several pages which were a bit confusing. More editing is needed I feel, especially in the first chapter, which had some misspelled words, run-on paragraphs, and some typos. I only mention this, as the first chapter or two has to really 'grab me', or I may just put the book down and read something else. Since I agreed to review this, I continued reading. I am glad I did, as I found the general story heartwarming, even funny in spots, and a good redemption story. So after the first several pages, I put my 'editing eye' away, and got out my 'reviewer's eye' instead.
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I received this book, free of charge, in exchange for my honest review.

Author 3 books5 followers
March 25, 2013
Darrell Case’s Christian novel, Never Ending Spring, is a book filled with action, intrigue, murder, mystery and suspense. The story takes place in rural Midwest America in 1949 in the midst of a farming community. From the time I began reading the book until I put it down, it was a page turner. In fact, I read it all in one evening and didn’t get to bed until nearly midnight.

After suffering incredible loss through a painful series of events spanning several years, Jack Johnson and his wife find themselves left to raise their only granddaughter on their own. Jack is angry with God for the murder of his daughter and son-in-law and wants to see justice done no matter what, even going so far as to hunt down the killer by himself. The story takes different twists and turns and left me guessing all the way through.

All the while, his wife, Ruth, and his granddaughter, Emily, are praying for him to find God and to turn his life over to the Almighty. I found myself cheering Jack on and could hardly wait to read how he finds redemption so he can have the assurance he will spend eternity in heaven with his family.

The cast of characters are ones I found likeable, and I enjoyed this uplifting story of God’s love and patience as He waits for His children to discover the forgiveness offered through his Son, Jesus. The ending of this mystery is a surprise and brought me to tears. I hope others will pick up a copy of Darrell’s book so they can be reminded of the message that God’s love – even in the midst of tragedy – is unfailing, given freely and never ending.
Profile Image for Anne Marie.
334 reviews8 followers
March 3, 2013
BRAVO Darrell Case on another AWESOME book!

After Jack Johnson's daughter and son-in-law are murdered he and his wife take in their only grandchild who is only 4 and has a hard time understanding that her daddy and mommy won't be coming back home because they went to Heaven. Jack himself has a hard time understanding why he lost his daughter and a son-in-law that he wasn't too crazy about because he was a pastor and not a farmer. Jack can't sit back and allow the local police to take their time to find out who killed them so he decides to take matters in his own hands.

Never Ending Spring grabbed me from the start and I didn't want to put it down! This is my second book I have read of Darrell Case and I believe its even better then Out of Darkness. Darrell gives us a sneak peek into his next book that will be coming out in the future and I am so ready to read it now!

If you love a good mystery that will have you guessing until the end then this is the book for you. It is a Christian book so there is talk about God and religion (which I truly loved because all I read is Christian books). I don't think you will be disappointed at all!


*Please note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Profile Image for Barbara.
847 reviews
July 3, 2013
This book centers around Jack Johnson and his struggle with the Lord. His daughter and not-so-favorite son-in-law are murdered in their own yard just down the street from the Johnsons. The couple leaves behind a six year old daughter who is wise beyond her years. The author draws you into the struggles that Jack, Ruth (his wife), and Emily (the granddaughter),face after the brutal murder in this small town. You may have it figured out who the killer is way before the book ends. But the resolutions to the other problems may surprise you. Emily's simple faith proves to be the most powerful of all. We, as adults, tend to make life way more difficult than it need be. We should all have the faith of a small child.

The thing that pleased me the most about this book was the ending. So many books resolve in the last two pages and leave you thinking that it couldn't be all that easy. This author lets you linger with the characters while the entire story resolves itself. You might wonder where the title of the book comes from, but the last paragraph will put a smile on your face and understanding in your heart.
Profile Image for LAWonder10.
953 reviews739 followers
June 25, 2013
The first part of this story was slightly difficult to follow but as the story
progressed, so did the writing. The remaining pages were very well-written.
This is a bittersweet tale of a family's experience of the sudden death of loved
ones, in a manner many of us will not have to directly experience. Still, there are
enough of the events which many of us do experience, or have done, that we can
emphasize with the characters. We can experience the joys and pain along with them.
Each of us react to these tragedies in different ways.
The story is a mystery that keeps one guessing throughout the book.
It is also a story of redemption, love, forgiveness and community unity.
The story portrays how the feelings of sorrow, anger and revenge can consume
the soul. One often questions,"How much does God expect from us"?
By placing our burdens on Christ's atoning blood and through God's forgiveness
we can find peace.
I was generously sent this book to review. It would have been on my want list.
I have given this an honest review.
Recommended for the whole family
Profile Image for Lorrie Sims.
7 reviews1 follower
March 25, 2013
Out of Darkness was the first book that Darrell Case had so graciously allowed me to review.

I have received and now finished his new novel, Never Ending Spring. I must say that Never Ending Spring touched me deeply.

The characters were very well developed; it felt as though I was living right beside every character!

You are introduced to the first murder starting on page one.

I was taken in immediately!

The mystery and suspense grows higher and higher with each page that is turned.

I loved this novel so much; I cannot say enough good things about it!

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this novel to all who love a well-woven story full of surprises and God’s love and redemptions.

I thank Darrell Case for sending me this book so I may give an honest review.

On a personal note, Darrell Case has become one of my MOST favorite authors and cannot wait for more!
Rev. Lorrie J. Sims
Profile Image for Kim Propp .
73 reviews15 followers
June 1, 2013
The action in Never Ending Spring starts on the very first few pages. Author Darrell Case offers an intriguing story of a non-Christian father dealing with the murder of his daughter, son-in-law, and the loss of his young son years earlier... Very suspenseful. Many twists to throw the reader off the real killer. You'll never guess who the murderer is til the very end! If you like a good mystery novel, you'll love this one! Many stories inside this book. The author shares the love that Jesus has for us but not in a preachy way. The townspeoples' comradery makes me want to visit the imaginary town. I like that the story flows easily. I didn't want to put the book down until I was finished reading it. I look forward to Darrell's next 'Case.'

The author sent me this book in exchange for my honest review. If you would like me to review your book, please email me at kymmeeee@yahoo.com.
Profile Image for Michelle Morgan.
254 reviews3 followers
March 14, 2013
Never Ending Spring, by Darrell Case
This is an awesome Christian book. It is packed full of action, suspense and mystery. I read this in one day and was pushed to tears quite a few times. The author Darrell Case has a way with words that brings the characters alive. You can tell he has a real relationship and knowledge of Christ. Jack the main characters world falls apart with the murder of his daughter and son in law. How can he trust a God that his taken most of his family. As he hunts for their killer he is pursued not only by the killer, but by the Holy Spirit. Can the prayers of his granddaughter and wife lead Jack to Christ? I highly recommend this book and can not wait to find another by Darrell Case.
Profile Image for Angela Lambkin.
2,354 reviews27 followers
October 5, 2013
I felt that Darrel did a great job in this writing of his here! He left you not wanting to put the book down till you finished the story towards end of his book! I thought it was a great, wholesome and had testimony or so as well in it. I gave him five stars in this Christian mystery story. Keep up the great work! I recommend this book for those who like a Wholesome, Christian testimony /mystery involved. I liked this book for all the reasons I have listed thus far. Thank you for giving me the book free so that I could read and review such a great book as I have already identified it as. By Angela L.
4 reviews1 follower
April 2, 2013
Never Ending Spring by Darrell Case

Jack is an angry man. He has been hurt by the death of his young son, Rickie, and the murder of his daughter and son-in-law. The murderer is identified and arrested, but it is Jack's granddaughter's question that eventually leads to his peace of mind.

I read this book straight through. It held my attention and was written in a style that was easy to read. The characters and the story itself are believable. I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to reading more books by Mr. Case.

This book was provided to to me by the author for my review.
5 reviews
May 14, 2013
When his daughter and son-in-law are murdered, and it seems the police have given up looking, Jack begins his own quest to capture the killer. But then the murderer sets his sights on Jack and his granddaughter! How many will die before this killer is caught?

“Never Ending Spring” is a suspenseful, well-written story. Darrell A. Case draws the reader into the story, to experience the twists and turns with Jack as God reveals the sinner and brings him to the light. I recommend it to anyone who loves a good mystery.
Profile Image for Tuanna Kelly Carpo.
37 reviews
May 25, 2013
Never before have I cried while reading a book. But they say there is a first time for everything. I had both tears of sorrow and tears of joy. This is a really, really good book. An ending you wouldn't expect. From the first page to the last I was spell bound by the story. I like books like that. The kind you hate to put down.
Darrell it's confirmed, you are definitely one of my favorite authors. May God bless you with more wonderful books. I feel He's writing to me and everyone else through your books. May He never stop. Amen
126 reviews3 followers
March 17, 2013

This is the first book by Darrell Case that I have read. I found it very refreshing to read a suspense novel with no foul language. It is a murder mystery, more than one murder in fact, and the main character doubts the existence of God. The setting is 1949 rural America so life is moving at a different rate from the present day. There is a definite Christian witness given with this book. I enjoyed the book and hope to read more from this author.
17 reviews1 follower
May 31, 2013
This was my first book by Darrell Case that I have read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. As a mother, I cannot imagine the pain of losing a child especially through murder. Jack, the father and main character, has little or no faith in God to help him through this tragedy. He decides to take matters into his own hands to find the killer which leads to more problems. I thought I'd figured out who the murderer was but I was wrong. If you like a good mystery I recommend this book.
Profile Image for Cindi.
725 reviews
August 31, 2013
This is the first book that I've read by this author.

It took me a couple of chapters to get into this book but once I did I really enjoyed it. Great story about redemption and faith with lots of twists and turns.

I received a copy of Never Ending Spring from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Allison Kohn.
Author 69 books51 followers
September 22, 2013
In Never Ending Spring by Darrell Case the author takes the reader back to the sights and sounds of the 1930s and 40s of Indiana's farmland. A brutal murder, great loss and constant fear turn to joy as this danger packed mystery comes to a victorious close. Darrell Case is a gifted story teller. I highly recommend it to all lovers of mystery and home life.
Profile Image for Kari Jones.
2 reviews2 followers
July 2, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. It was a book of hope and forgiveness. This author had a way of grabbing my attention in the first few pages and holding it until the end. I would definitely recommend it.
Profile Image for Denise Untersee.
35 reviews4 followers
June 4, 2013
I LOVED THE BOOK!!!!! jack has to be my favorite charater and the fact that He excepted Christ was icing on the cake. I think everyone should read it and I can not wait for Darrell's next book!
1 review
January 5, 2014
A very awsome book. Kept me wantn to read on. Loved the verses from tje bible that were placed through out the story. Would love to read more from darrell.
1 review
April 7, 2014
it was an awesome book I enjoyed it once I started it I didn't put it down until I had finished it!
Profile Image for Ida Winter.
1 review
September 26, 2015
And a child shall lead them.

This was a beautiful story of love and forgiveness. And still it was a good mystery read. Highly recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews

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