The Ravine: Evil, Hope, and the Afterlife

by Robert Pascuzzi

When Rachel Turner and her son Evan are found murdered in their home, the crime comes as a shock to the residents of Akron.

Later, Rachel’s husband Danny is found dead in his car at the bottom of a ravine. The reason for the deaths of Rachel and Evan seems to have died with him. With the brutal and senseless death of her closest friend hanging over her, Carolyn Bianci slides into depression while her husband Mitch focuses all of his energy on uncovering the truth about Danny’s actions. Was this brutal act committed on the spur of the moment, or had it been carefully planned and premeditated?

˃˃˃ A hidden past of lies and deceit

Events soon take another turn as Joanna Larson enters their lives with a set of exceptional spiritual gifts and insight into what actually happened on that fateful night, challenging the Bianci’s comprehension and their grasp of reality.

Get your copy of The Ravine now! A story of evil, hope and the afterlife!

Genres: Book Club, Christian Fiction, Supernatural, Fiction

233 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 1, 2014

About the author

Robert Pascuzzi is an entrepreneur, husband and father from the Midwest whose comfortable existence was shattered due to a horrendous crime that impacted him and his family. In the wake of that tragedy, he was led on a spiritual journey that challenged his core beliefs. Compelled to share what he learned, this book was born.

Reviews

[Tim Chavel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This a novel about forgiveness. Even though I did not agree with all of the theology in the book is was a good read.The story involves two brothers who are start football players in high school. After high school and the lights dim they turn to crime. The get caught and sent to prison. Prison changes the two brothers. One learns to trust God and changes his life, the other allows his heart to get header and just plays the system. The story really begins after they get parolled from prison. Robert Pascuzzi, the author, started each chapter with a quote. I always enjoy quotes at the beginning of chapters. I have them all listed below and a few other quotes from the book as well. Enjoy!

There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone the light remains. ~Author Unknown

Lord, help us realize that everything that happens to us happens for a reason. Help us realize that every sorrow or setback we experience can be transformed into a blessing, if we but trust in you. Help us realize that if we trust you, all things – even tragedies – will work out for our good. ~Robert Pascuzzi

Life changes in an instant. The ordinary instant. ~Joan Didion

God dislikes evil. And no happiness can be built on hate. Love one another as brothers. ~Josephine Baker

But I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep. ~Robert Frost

Fame is a bee.
It has a song-
It has a sting-
Ah, too, it has a wing. ~Emily Dickinson

Our lives are the sum total of the choices we have made. ~Wayne Dyer

What’s done cannot be undone. ~William Shakespeare

Brief is life, But love is long ~Lord Alfred Tennyson

Grief teaches the steadiest minds to waver. ~Sophocles

The trust of the innocent is the liar’s most useful tool. ~Stephen King

Deep into that darkest peering,
Long I stood there,
Wondering, fearing ~Edgar Allan Poe

Go out into the darkness,
And put your hand into the hand of God. ~Minnie Louise Haskins

To love and win is the best thing;
To love and lose, the next best. ~William Makepeace Thackeray

If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied. ~1 Cor. 15:19

We cannot do great things on this earth, only small things with great love. ~Mother Teresa

My mind is like a bad neighborhood; I try not to go there alone. ~Anne Lamott

God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our consciences, but shouts in our pains. ~C.S. Lewis

Let us forgive each other; only then will we live in peace. ~Tolstoy

[Charles Ray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rachel Turner and her son, Evan, are found brutally murdered. Her husband, Danny, is found dead in his car at the bottom of a ravine. The town of Akron, Ohio is shocked that such a devastating event could happen in their otherwise peaceful burg. Rachel’s best friend, Carolyn Bianci is thrown into a bout of depression and a crisis of faith, but her husband, Mitchell, a devout man, is determined to discover what really happened in the Turner house that fateful night. Just as he is almost at the end of his faith, Joanna Larson, a woman with amazing spiritual gifts and an insight into the souls of others, living and dead, appears with a message to help Carolyn and Mitchell understand what happened, why it happened, and how their faith can help them through their crisis.
Ravine: Evil, Hope, and the Afterlife by Robert Pasculli is an overtly religious novel, but one doesn’t have to be Christian, or even particularly religious, to grasp the underlying message – hope and faith are the only way to overcome evil, and the capacity to forgive—even one’s own shortcomings—is the key.
I usually find religious-themed stories too heavily laden with piety and overly-hopeful homilies, but Pasculli, even though he does stress the religious aspect, does not really preach. He shows, through the actions and words of the characters primarily, how people can cope with the evil that often inhabits our world alongside the good, and it’s up to us to shun the evil, while seeking the good.
I found myself identifying with the main character, and captivated by Joanna, even though she was almost a Deus ex Machina in the way she shows up just when she was needed to resolve a troubling situation.
I give it three and a half stars.

[Gayle · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was interesting, but it definitely is not Christian! Yes, Jesus can forgive a repentant sinner at the last second of life, but we are not gods and we cannot make things happen just by praying. There is salvation in none other than Jesus Christ. You must believe that He is the only begotten Son of the One True God and He died to save you from your sins. He arose on the 3rd day and lives forever. He is preparing a home for those who confess their sins and accept His free gift of salvation. God can use angels in many ways, but we must rely on His Holy Spirit for guidance, not some "gifted" person. This book just did not feel right to my spirit. The one true thing in the book is that we must forgive! Unforgiveness hurts us in many many ways. The ending of the book needed to include the murderers brother and parents. They were left out of too much!

[Lou · Rating 1 out of 5]

Ok, I'm trying to put my thoughts in order because I'm quite confused...

The characters background made me lose the interest and made me wish to stop reading, but the story became captivating in some parts, so I guess is fifty fifty.

Although I always love and enjoy stories about forgiveness, I didn't like this book because I can't believe that someone can be forgiven after committing suicide. I'm truly sorry but I can't be so open minded about this.

I received a book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review and that's what I did.

[Kristen Stuppy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what to expect with this book, but I enjoyed it on several levels. It is an easy and quick read, but it made me think about life and choices, right and wrong, and forgiveness. This would be a great book for a book club or bible study group to discuss.

[Rita Arens · Rating 2 out of 5]

Still trying to figure out why I read the whole thing.

[Jenica · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story opens with a horrific tragedy and ends with a poignant message for grief and healing. I was pulled into this story because of the history it provides for each family involved in the tragedy. The story eventually connects each character together and how each person's actions or inactions lead to fate. We, as humans, cannot change the future or alter the past no matter how much we pray to do so. Everything happens for a reason and God places people in your path each with their own purpose in guiding you. This story is about forgiveness, above everything else that happens in this sad tale. Danny and Rachel and Mitch and Carolyn intertwine their lives together and Joanna, who has nothing to do with these two families leads Mitch and Carolyn to peace, understanding and forgiveness. Although this isn't a book I would normally choose to read, it left me with a heartfelt, deeply understood message. No one should question God and everyone should forgive. I enjoyed this story and its message and I give it 3 stars.

[Vicki (MyArmchairAdventures) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Have you heard about the movie coming out based on this book, THE RAVINE? I was prompted primarily to buy the book (which was released in 2017) and read it because the author lives in our community. I don’t know him personally, but I have friends who do. I went into THE RAVINE thinking it was a true crime story however, it is not. It is loosely “inspired by” true events however, so loosely that it took A LOT of searching and stalking to uncover news stories about the actual crime. Once I read about the author, who has made a career out of motivational and inspirational books and speaking, I became a bit jaded about the book which seems like an opportunity to capitalize on something that may not have been as fantastical in real life. I have a suspicion that this will be an instance where the movie is better than the book with an all-star cast including Eric Dane and Teri Polo.

[Mimi Damian · Rating 5 out of 5]

A message from God

I’ve had this book in my library for many months, maybe a year or two. It was at a point in my life when grief over my mom’s unexpected death had become unbearable that I was drawn to open the book and begin reading it. Like a helping hand, a messenger, or an angel sent by God, this book has brought some understanding to the inexplicable pain of grief I had not been able to shake off for months. A true page-turner, beautifully written, and full of messages from God about forgiveness, which is what is truly needed in our society today. For anyone dealing with guilt, anger, resentment, shame, regret, and/or grief, this book will offer a new perspective on forgiveness that can bring understanding and, ultimately, relief from all that suffering.

[Kassie R. · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’ve had this book on my kindle for a while. It is depressing because of the true story it is based off of - a husband murdering his wife and one son and then killing himself. It’s also a bit weird - a mixture of what I think weird beliefs with some Catholicism thrown in there, but then other things I would say aren’t Catholic whatsoever (even though the author is Catholic). Reminded me a bit of The Shack. The writing wasn’t the best, but I think that’s simply because the author isn’t necessarily an author, but this is based on something in his own life. I finished it because I wanted to know what happened, but honestly the ending has left me a bit unsettled.

[Julie Baswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a powerful story that took me by surprise. The story is about the consequences faced when you allow evil and darkness to permeate and control your thoughts and your actions. But the story dwells more on how these consequences in turn affect others.

I can’t say I enjoyed the story, mainly because of its tragic content. But, it truly is a 5 star read. It was expertly written, in that you were given bits of information, and characters introduced and slowly developed, giving the story credence. You will feel this story for a long time, and it’s one that you will never forget.

[Rebecca Cecil · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, this book is based on a true story. The story was great at going through each characters emotions due to a tragedy of loosing best friends. And coming to terms with how someone could get to a place where they are so deprssed they can comment murder.
Very emotional book. Deals with grief, sadness, coming to terms with never really knowing someone you thought you knew could do something you never thought they could.
Get ready to cry because your emotions will be all over the place.

[Paula · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not sure what to think of this book….Did the author take a “true story” and use it as an illustration or a parable? Is it all true? Joanna’s visit, etc? Faith, religion, beliefs-so open to interpretation, so many questions. Forgiveness certainly is leading tenet for a peaceful life. Much of the theology in the book does not register with me currently.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

great read, really enjoyed this book

[Shana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful

A testament of true forgiveness and faith that nearly seemed unattainable. I’m sure I will read this again many more times.

[Willie Giere · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was based on religion but not the kind where they just grind on it. There was a story that was good. Still don't know why Danny did it.

[Laura Eaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring Read on Forgiveness

This book takes us on a journey between the the evil we see every day playing out in today’s headlines and the promise and hope of God’s forgiveness.

[Joy Kidney · Rating 3 out of 5]

A brutal crime, based on a true story, that leads to redemption and forgiveness. But even the "good guys" aren't likeable, and what is touted as Christianity seems more like an empty mysticism.

[Linda U. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good book on forgiveness

[Frank Corriveau · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was moving along as a good mystery and adventure until the latter part ruined the book with religion. "God's plan", forgiveness, "trust in God", all bad/evil things occur because we listen and act on the Devil's advice.

[Tannia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ravine, by Robert Pascuzzi, is a novel of evil, hope, and the afterlife, inspired by a true story.

Tony and Danny Turner enjoyed many years of fame and glory as their high school football team's best players. Their dream of becoming professionals was crushed when they were not drafted. After graduation, stardom faded and they had to settle for a boring and tedious low-paying job at a local store.

The Turner brothers' attitude of entitlement took them down a criminal path leading toward the road to perdition. When one of their burglaries went wrong, they were caught and sentenced to several years in jail. Feeling ashamed, the family relocated to another city where the brothers' dad started a sporting goods business.

After their release from prison, the brothers worked for their father. Once their dad retired, Tony, the older one, took over the running of the family store and became a successful businessman. The Turner brothers integrated back into society, started families of their own, and became responsible citizens. However, Danny always felt like he was an underdog growing in the shadow of his brother. His dark side started creeping back to the point of no return.

One spring morning Danny's wife and older son were murdered at their home, leaving the entire neighborhood, close friends, and family in total shock.

As the story unfolds, the reader must keep an open mind to understand the root of the problem as it is gradually revealed by the homicide detective and a devout, spirited pastor helping the families cope with the tragedy.

The Ravine is a thought-provoking, page-turning crime story with characters and situations inspired by true events. It shows how the destructive power of evil, if left unattended, could lead to tragedy. On the other hand, it also shows how, for those who invoke His mercy, faith and trust in God's redemptive love defeats the power of evil and prevent eternal damnation.

I highly recommend this inspirational, life-changing story to readers who think they would like homicide novels entangled with unusual spiritual experiences. The end of the book will leave them wondering, Is that really possible?

[Anne Kotch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me begin with this DISCLAIMER: “I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review”. Now for my review. The title Page of the RAVINE informed me the story, although fictional, was “inspired” by a true story. As the book wove together so many stories of the same individuals until the last couple of chapters, I was not sure which event was the basis of the story. Let me begin with the positives of my review. The story was easy to read. It did hold my attention. However, I was able to put the book down and fall asleep. You see I am a devoted bedtime reader. Now for my perspective of what I felt was negative in the book. Although, I did find the story of Joanna plausible, I felt the story deviated more to the side of the occult rather than staying with the signs that I truly feel God leaves for us in a variety of ways. As a mature, believing, female, I am far from being a fanatic. But, I do strongly feel God does communicate with us in various ways. As for this book being part of a prison ministry, I have my doubts as to its’ benefit. To me the book may be better suited for the victim or their family or friends. Now having written that I accept that no matter how often or in what ways an individual hears “ let go and let God” from a victims point of view forgiveness is difficult. Sometimes it is never achieved.
To end on a positive I did feel the author stated a very strong truth in the book. This came in the opening of Chapter 16, “Let us forgive each other, only then will we live in peace.” — Tolstoy. Having lived in a city for 11 years that has one of the highest murder rates in the country, I feel human beings no matter where they are on their belief scale should consider adopting this as a mantra.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Danny and Tony are best friends and brothers, who have straightened their lives out after finding forgiveness in the least likely place. Carolyn and Rachel have been best friends since high school. Since meeting, the two have shared everything in their lives. Mitch is the successful architect who designed Tony's business. In the end, Mitch marries Carolyn while Dany marries Rachel. All is well with them for years. Then out of the blue, tragedy strikes and everyone realizes that things were not always what they seemed in each others lives. They look within themselves and realise that we all are fighting every day even though we don't recognise the enemy any more.

Inspired by true events, THE RAVINE brings to light the unseen dangers we face in a politically correct culture by allowing sin, the devil, into our lives. The story causes us to wonder what is going on within ourselves on a daily basis and just what is and isn't important in the world around us. It gives up pause to think that we do affect others, even though we like to think we are and island to ourselves and our decisions in life only relate to me, numero uno. Today so many people want to blame God when evil occurs in our lives, but when good things happen, we never give God credit. We often never consider how the choices we make affect those around us and that we are responsible for the choices we make—good or bad. Free will has a price. God allows us to choose. We don't get to blame God when the choices we make do not go as planned. If we let Him, God will forgive us anything. God often does things to our benefit even when we don't see them.

[C.O. Bonham · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is not your standard mystery. Instead of searching for a murderer, friends and family are left hunting for a motive in the wake of a grisly murder suicide. Those that live with the aftershock of such actions naturally have questions. Danny Turner had it all, what could possibly have possessed him to such acts of brutality? Why does God let bad things happen? and How can anyone, even God, forgive such a horrific crime?

This book is primarily about that -- Forgiveness. Learning to accept that evil is at work in the world, and not letting that darkness smother the good in our lives, is another. Though it could be argued that the two are the same, I saw them as two distinct messages in the story.

This is a powerful, emotional, story with a good message. A message that a lot of people need to hear. So why only three stars?

The opening of this book was very intense, I was sure this would be an edge of my seat thriller. Sadly no. The exciting first eight pages are followed by sixty pages of flashback that slow the pace of the narrative and kind of made me forget what I was reading.

While reading this book, if you are tempted to put the book down, I recommend skipping to chapter seven and coming back to this information after you are more invested in the characters.

*Received free from a give away through www.timeforforgivness.org

[Teresa Kander · Rating 3 out of 5]

I chose to read this book because I had heard that it was a Christian book, based on a true story, and with themes of forgiveness and hope. While it does focus on forgiveness and hope, much of the "theology" presented is not supported by the Christian beliefs I have held for most of my life.

Regardless of that issue, I still found this to be a story worth reading. Reading about the events which led up to the horrific crime, and then about the aftermath, where friends and family tried to deal with what happened and to understand why was heartbreaking. When it came to the portion of the story regarding Joanna, however, I found it difficult to accept. Including her in the story is what caused my rating to drop from four to three stars. In my opinion, her character pulled the story toward the occult more than the religious.

**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.**

[Edward Arrington · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story held my interest. I was somewhat bothered by the use of curse words because they detract from a "Christian" book rather than making it more realistic in my mind. That is simply a personal preference that isn't necessarily share by everyone. The message of forgiveness is powerful and greatly needed in our world. Although I know things portrayed in the book happen much too frequently, they are still not easy to deal with. I recommend the book especially to those who have been directly affected by events such as these. I was provided a complimentary copy from timeforforgivenss.org for my honest review.

[Carol Pridgeon · Rating 3 out of 5]

I believe in forgiveness

I believe the universe to be loving and compassionate. I do not believe in the concept of a devil. I respect the authors beliefs and his right to express them. it is simply one that I don't share. I enjoyed the shack which had a similar theme but left out the devil as the culprit and placed the responsibility of our actions on the consciousness of our species as a whole. the theme of forgiveness is, however a powerful one.

[Sue Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this as an arc from net galley in exchange for an honest review.
Are you ready to explore life's deepest questions? On a typical weekday morning in a peaceful suburb of Akron. Ohio, the town awakens to discover that Rachel Turner and her son, Evan have been brutally murdered during the night.
Very good read.
Although about forgiveness I enjoyed the read.
This book was not my usual read.
The chapters were long so took me a while to read.

[Amy Garrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very thoughtful book that makes you think about your life and appreciate what you have. It was very well written and a joy to read. i received a copy through netgalley in return for an honest review. in the wake of tragedy people can either sink or swim. this depicts the struggle on a journey on how to learn forgiveness and not be one of the ones who sinks.

[Ryan Roth · Rating 3 out of 5]

A solid story line with a powerful message. But the author tried to bring too many characters into too short of a book. I didn't know if another new person was going to be important or not. If you enjoyed books by Randy Alcorn, you will enjoy and be challenged by this book.