Valiant Hope

Homeland Heroes #3

by Donna Fleisher

Can Chris forgive the unforgivable? If not, is she willing to pay the cost? A cost that may be more than she ever imagined . . . There's nothing Chris McIntyre hates more than child abuse. And now one of the children at Kimberley Square's new gymnasium is showing the signs---signs Chris knows all too well. With no evidence to take to the police, the tough-as-nails former soldier knows it's time to take matters into her own hands. But her anger at the abuser goes deeper than defending an innocent child. Memories haunt Chris---memories of her own childhood and her own father. As these memories locked inside her well up into a rage that threatens to consume her, she finds it impossible to forgive. But how can she continue as a Christian while harboring hatred in her heart? One remarkable man may hold the answers to help Chris sort through the agonizing secrets of her past. To help her find a road to peace. But the route threatens to take her to a place she thought she'd never again have to go---a place she swore she'd die before ever seeing again.

Genres: Fiction

304 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2006

About the author

Donna Fleisher, like her father and brother, is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. Her previous novels include Wounded Healer, Warrior's Heart, and Valiant Hope. She lives on the Oregon Coast and is in a never-ending search for sand dollars.

Reviews

[Tracy Collier · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read a lot of Christian fiction and like most of it. I may have enjoyed this more if I had read the two earlier books in the series. However, there was just too much drama for me, especially in the form of screaming, sobbing, and vomiting.

[Ellen White · Rating 5 out of 5]

The eyes of a mother and the child told what Chris suspected. Without thought she goes to check and confront the abuser. A nightmare and flashback confront Chris. Thankfuly Chappy comes and then the police, or it could have been even worse for Chris. A paramedic will a soothing voice and fudge popsicles brought healing. To forgive and forget was a good theme throughout the story, with the laughter and love of friends.

[Carlotta Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book. Chris had gone through alot in her lifetime. Thankful that Chris has Rinny to lean on. Chapter 14; just getting to find out about Rinny's and Scott baby!!! Wanted to find out what happens between Jase and Chris. The pages skip from page 307 to 319. Page 319 is the end of the story. I'm thankful that Chris always-always leaned on the most important person in her life- Jesus.
But would have like to know what happens to Jase and Chris.

[Pianosue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chris McIntyre hates child abuse and she begins to suspect one of the children at the new gym is being abused. Will she be able to help her? But her anger goes deeper than defending an innocent child. Memories haunt Chris will she be able to deal with her past and move on?

[Jodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an excellent plot, one that confronts child abuse and the emotional turmoil created by it. Parts of this book are rather dark, and I skipped some parts, but it reveals just how much emotional trauma an abuse victim goes through. Mainly I like this book, because it shows the power of forgiveness and the power of letting go. It also reveals that God is so important in both aspects. Chris couldn't let go of her anger and fear until she got saved, and realized that she had to forgive her father.

[Judy Wise · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has been a long time since I was moved to tears off and on throughout a story, but this one did it. This story is about child abuse and the scars inside and out that ones lives with. Getting help is the most important answer as well as ones faith in God to get through it all. Excellant job writing this story.

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is one of my all time favorites. I just love Chris's personality and how she's always strong on the outside-even though shes melting inside. I just love this book!

[Tif · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotionally charged, highly realistic book dealing with the after-effects of abuse. Chris' return to face her demons, and coming back stronger (emotionally and spiritually) is a real inspiration.

[Donald A. Messenger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read.

The book was a little confusing at times. With all the flashbacks. Happy Chris was able to forgive her dad,but was sorry when she found the cord
.