Termination Dust

Alaskan Refuge #2

by Alana Terry

An abusive father. A devoted sister. When danger strikes, she'll walk through fire to protect her family.

Despite years of trauma, Kimmie's faith has never faltered. And after her mom’s unexpected death, Kimmie risks everything to save her autistic brother from a life of neglect and abuse.

Caught in the crosshairs of a dangerous dilemma, she dashes out with her brother into the bitter Alaskan night. With the devil in pursuit and the law on her stepdad’s side, Kimmie must brave the perils of the freezing wilderness in a desperate attempt to finally reach safety.

Can Kimmie survive the daring escape, or has she doomed both herself and her brother to a frozen grave?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Fiction, Audiobook, Mystery Thriller, Suspense, Romantic Suspense, Romance

478 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 15, 2019

About the author

When Alana isn't writing, it's likely that she's on the floor wrestling with her kids. Or playing outside with her kids. Or chauffeuring her kids. Or trying some random science experiment with her kids. But she's probably not cooking or cleaning.

Alana is a homeschooling mother of three who loves to write, hates to cook, and enjoys reading a good book almost as much as she enjoys writing one.

Alana won the Women of Faith writing contest for "The Beloved Daughter," her debut inspirational novel. "What, No Sushi?" is Alana's first book in a chapter-book series for kids published by Do Life Right, Inc.

Reviews

[Jerry (Rebel With a Massive Media Library) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just like the previous novel, this second volume was an intense thrill ride with plenty of twists and turns.

However, I did have one big complaint: Other than being set in Alaska, this story has nothing to do with the first book. None of the characters from Part One reappear here; this is pretty much a sequel in name only, which was disappointing. I wanted to read more about the people from the first outing; maybe they'll reappear in a later story.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kimmie's mother has recently committed suicide and she is trying to keep herself and her 3 year old brother Pip, safe from her step-father. He is a drunken, lazy, abusive man who used her mother as a slave and now that she is gone, thinks Kimmie should step into the role. When Kimmie realizes that if she doesn't get Pip and herself out of the house, one or both of them is going to end up dead. With the help of a state trooper, Kimmie is finally able to get away.

Alana Terry does not sugarcoat this abusive situation. Kimmie is a mess and is scared for her little brother. She feels responsible for her 3 year old brother who is so traumatized by his father that he will not speak. He calls him names, hardly feeds him at all and threatens him unless Kimmie does what he wants. Kimmie is a confused, frightened young lady with very low self-esteem. One minute she is strong and stands up to her step-father, the next she is cowering and almost defending him to others. Her fear is so strong, which is what so many victims of abuse deal with. Poor Pip broke my heart. He was such a shadow of a child living in the situation they were in. From their mother, Kimmie has strong faith and it is that faith, that finally gives her the courage she needs. This book had my emotions all over the place and I recommend that anyone who reads this one, have a box of tissues nearby. This was a very good story with faith, forgiveness, courage, love, family and friendship all playing large roles in this story. I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.

[Betti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Termination dust is when the first snow falls on the mountain peaks in Alaska defining the end of summer. What does this mean to you or I in our warm homes with plenty of food on the table? Not very much, I’m sure. But for those whose coats are thin, little food is available and not much warmth to be found, it can become life or death. Under those circumstances, would you believe that God has only your best in mind?

What a great way to spend an afternoon. The author has a way of describing suspenseful scenes that leave you holding your breath, wondering if the perpetrator will win this time! The tension never lets up, starting with the abusive stepfather, no food, cold - oh so cold and continues with murder, attempted murder and arson. Will Kimmie and Pip survive this horror? She is a shining example of the verse quoted in the beginning of the book. ‘All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace.’ - Isaiah 54:13 Her mother taught her very well.

I received an ARC through CelebrateLit. The five star rating was in no way solicited. The comments, impressions and opinions stated are my own.

[Donna C · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I think you should know:
Termination Dust in a contemporary novel set in rural Alaska. Kimmie , her mother and brother have been under the controlling hand of her abusive stepfather for too long, but have tried to make the best of the situation and take care of each other. When Kimmie’s mother unexpectedly commits suicide Kimmie must take the brunt of the abuse to protect brother.

What you might want to know:
Kimmie suffers horrible emotional abuse and extreme poverty at the hands of her stepfather. This book talks about her struggles and fears. She stays in the situation to keep her little brother who has autism safe.

What you touched me about this book:
Alana Terry, the author writes powerful books that capture my attention right away and keep it the whole time, this book was no exception. Kimmie has such amazing faith, even when times are beyond hard she keeps her faith in God, she trusts in Him to help her find a way to keep them safe. She she been isolated from her family and from society however she has fought to find ways to keep herself and her brother safe. She is such an inspirational character.

Who will enjoy this book just to name a few:
Fans of Suspense
Fans of Mysteries
Fans of Christian Fiction

I received a complimentary copy for this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book kept me up late reading!! I did the audio version, and it was so great! Awesome Book, amazing writing!!

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love how this author writes stories that are hard hitting and realistic. Domestic abuse and child abuse has been a touchy subject for years. In this story we see how horrific emotional and physical abuse really is. The characters are written with an emotional tug on the heart. I instantly connected to Kimmie and how she fiercely wanted to protect her mom and little brother. She has been through so much and her self esteem is so low that she finds herself worthless at times.

Day after day Kimmie's mom endures the terror of Chuck. He is Kimmie's step-dad and has no love for anyone or anything except beer. He is lazy and cold-hearted . Someday her mother plans to leave him, but it never happens. I cringed when I read how little food they had and how they went to bed every night scared for their lives.

It is hard to describe the anger I felt as I read the story and how I wanted to yank Chuck by his ears and throw him outside. The author does an amazing job of letting us inside a home where everyday is chaos. Kimmie's mom has done a great job instilling faith in her children and that is where her strength comes from. Kimmie is a hero to me because she didn't think of herself, but of her brother and mom.

There is a bit of violence in the story but it is only to detail the truth of domestic violence. The author does not go into graphic details, but does get her point across with words in a compassionate way. There is a tragedy in the story which heightens Kimmie's need to leave with her brother instantly.

I did enjoy how Kimmie's older sister came into the story. Kimmie has always felt abandoned by her and there is a lot of hurt and jealousy that needs to be fixed. It is always hard when you see someone having a good life when you are struggling everyday to stay alive. The author delivers an emotional journey as these two sisters try to repair their relationship.

The last part of the book is tense filled and I was on the edge of my seat as Kimmie looked death in the face. Chuck will stop at nothing to cover up his crime and Kimmie must use her faith and trust in God to protect her. I especially liked this part of the story because it gives readers a look at what faith is really like. I won't tell you anymore because I don't want to spoil the story. I loved the scripture that Kimmie repeated a lot which was " I can do all things through him who gives me strength." The author has delivered a timely story that reminds us to never give up and to trust Him with all your needs.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Jasmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

She'll do anything to protect her little brother...

Aside from the fact that this is an Alana Terry book, I think what really captured my attention was the rather enigmatic title. Termination Dust, what even is it? Sorry, you'll just have to read the book to find out. I didn't really read the blurb before starting the book on my Kindle. After all, it IS an Alana Terry book so I knew I wanted to read it.

The Alaskan Refuge Christian Suspense series is a little different from the author's other series' as it relies a lot more on the romantic suspense angle. While I wasn't able to get into Termination Dust as much as I did the first book it was still a good story. Kimmie's single-minded determination to protect her little brother at all costs is very emotionally moving. And, sadly, the abuse and mental trauma they endure is quite realistic. But the overarching theme of hanging onto faith through even the darkest circumstances is encouraging for readers facing their own difficulties.

Whether you are into gripping and gritty stories or you love fiction set in the vivid, and dangerous, Alaskan landscape Termination Dust and the rest of Alana Terry's edgy Alaskan Refuge Christian Suspense series is one you should check out.

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

[Becca Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part suspense and part emotional drama, Terminal Dust was an easy book to pick up yet not so easy to put down. I was quickly drawn into Kimmie's world and felt as if I were standing right in the midst of it. This also made several parts difficult to read due to the extremely abusive behavior of her stepdad. To say her life was a nightmare is an understatement. It felt as if my own life couldn't continue until Kimmie and Pip had reached safety. With content awareness I believe this is a read I'm sure suspense fans would easily devour.

*I received a copy of this book through CelebrateLit. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Cindy B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Got engrossed with this plot and liked the character. Took awhile to read this. Busy because of the Holiday and CO-VID19. Heartening Christian read.

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alana Terry brings us the second fast-paced, intense novel in the Alaskan Refuge series, that of a young woman and her little brother in true need of refuge. Kimmie has never been on a date, had to quit high school early, and is responsible for her little brother, Pip. Violence and extreme poverty is “normal” in this family, and we open to what appears to have been Kimmie’s mother’s suicide. We see a glimpse inside this family and how her late mother’s legacy of faith led Kimmie to do – and survive – the unthinkable.

Kimmie sees termination dust on the mountain peaks. Termination dust is what looks like dust when the first snow falls on the peaks. To most, it represents the end of summer and start of school. For Kimmie, it once meant hope, as she was able to escape the abuse for the hours she was in class.

Kimmie now works in a preschool, which gets her stepfather Chuck more money to drink away. Those hours gave her mother a break from worrying about Kimmie and Pip being harmed by Chuck. Pip is three but doesn’t speak yet, so preschool is when he gets to play with other children and toys and get two meals a day.

Kimmie’s mother talked for years of escaping the little trailer and getting to her older daughter, Meg’s, home in Anchorage where her husband is a real estate mogul. For the first year after Pip’s birth, Mom was too exhausted to try to go; the following years she wanted to have enough money for an attorney so she could get custody of Pip. Kimmie is now determined to get Pip away. Taylor, the state trooper who had been at the trailer after Kimmie found her mother’s body, saw her at the daycare when he went to talk to the children about safety. Taylor gave her his business card and told her to call if she needs anything, but she shares nothing of the abuse with him.

When Kimmie’s stepfather aims his rifle at her and slides the bolt back one night, only an interruption from Pip saved Kimmie. The power is out because he didn’t pay it again, and she sees one chance of getting away. She leads Pip on a path into the forest to avoid being seen on the highway. As the night gets colder, Kimmie fears the worst for Pip. Would he become hypothermic? Get frostbite? The one thing that carries her through, just like many nights before, is remembering the scripture songs her mother used to sing and singing them to Pip. She does believe in God, but the years she prayed to get away from Chuck leads her to believe that God doesn’t answer prayers.

This is an intense novel of a mustard seed of faith and survival. It is driven by terror and other emotions as Kimmie goes on the run. Until one endures the life that Kimmie and her mother endured, one has no way to know or understand why they remained in a terrible situation. Kimmie refused to leave her mother or brother alone to deal with Chuck. She resented her sister for her seeming air of superiority yet doesn’t know the truth of what Meg’s life is like now. All she knows is she must save Pip at any cost. It is a fast read that shows how isolated and terrifying it is for those who live in abuse. I highly recommend it to Christians who want to learn more about those in need of help from abusive situations. It might not be suitable for teens and adults sensitive to violence.

From a thankful heart: I received a copy of this novel from the publisher and CelebrateLit and this is my honest review.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts on Termination Dust:
Termination Dust held me spellbound. It was a fast and quick read for me as I became captivated by the characters and couldn’t break away.

I fell in love with Kimmie and her trooper Taylor. At times I wanted to smack her sister though because of her carefree attitude and her flirtatious nature. But later, once I knew what she was going through, I truly felt sorry for her.

Kimmie and her brother have a hard life at home that becomes even more so after her mother’s suicide, or was it a suicide? How can Kimmie keep them clothed and fed and safe when her stepfather refuses to let her work anymore? Will she ever be safe again?

Wow. Just wow. This book was amazing. I loved it. The author has a style that keeps you reading because you think you know what will happen next but you’re not really sure so you better keep reading just in case it’s not as predictable as it seems. Yeah, that will make total sense once you read the book.

Alana Terry has a great suspense read here. More than just great suspense though we also see some hard topics brought up. I’m seeing a lot with hard topics these days. It’s like the flood gates have opened and authors have decided people need to hear and see these things and I’m okay with that.

In Termination Dust, we are exposed to alcoholism, cheating, abuse, and autism. Such a wide array of things going on and mentioned.

You’re going to love this book. Quick aside, as soon as I finished this book I read another one of Alana’s. And then I went in search of another! They’re that good. Definitely a recommend from me.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book starts out on the edge. Kimmie found her mother dead, and right away she is forced to make some heavy choices to care for her (implied autistic) toddler brother and contend with her abusive/negligent step-father. Kimmie’s main drive throughout the whole story is to keep her brother safe, and the sacrifices she makes are both admirable and depressing. At first, this book bothered me. This is beyond suspense and mystery, this is sickness and tragedy and that is not what I was prepared to read. I anticipated a happy ending though and had to keep pushing forward to discover how that was going to play out. I admired the faith incorporated into the story and how it was the one thing that Kimmie could pull peace from. I also liked how this story gives the reader a portal into the mind and feelings of a person with significant physical and mental trauma. The author does a respectable job at laying out the thought processes of Kimmie and her choices. As a reader putting ourselves in the main character’s shoes and seeing the situations from her POV will hopefully help us all gain some empathy and understanding for what people who have mental and physical trauma experience and why they do some of the things they do. I have to admit, although the love story ended up playing an important role within the plot, I was just not ecstatic about it. I find it far-fetched and unnecessary that someone who experiences this level of trauma would find her knight in shining armor and be capable of building a healthy relationship within a few months, but this IS fiction, so I guess anything goes and at least there was a happy ending. I would give 3.5 stars (I had to knock .5 stars because I felt the romance wasn't needed) and I do recommend this read! Just be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster!

[Gina Holder · Rating 3 out of 5]

Termination Dust is an intriguing title, but it has nothing to do with Transformers or Arnold Schwarzenegger. Termination Dust is an Alaskan phrase meaning the “first dusting of snow that signals the end of summer.”
The main character, Kimmie, faces a figurative “Termination Dust” in her life. Is it when she finds her mother hanging from the rafters of the barn and her stepfather refuses to pay for a funeral? Maybe it’s when her abusive stepfather crosses the line and threatens her with her very life? Whatever that moment is, Kimmie comes to realize that she can’t stay in the circumstances she’s in. It’s time she makes an escape plan for herself and her autistic half-brother. But that’s easier said than done when you live in rural Alaska…
This was my first read by Alana Terry and I have mixed feelings about it. The book, while listed as having over 250 pages, felt short. It only took me a few hours to read through it. While the wording is simple and easy to read, the subject matter of an abusive home was difficult to read about.
Kimmie’s stepfather is a revolting character and literally turned my stomach, but I believe the author was aiming for that reaction. I liked the addition of an autistic child, it gave Kimmie the motivation and drive to seek a better life for herself and her brother. There was one element to the story that I struggled to understand its purpose for being in the book at all, and I was also confused by Kimmie’s relationship with her sister.
While this book was not my “cup of tea,” it was my first by this author and I am interested in reading her other books. She is a favorite of many, so I will keep an open mind.
I recommend this book for those who like easy-to-read romantic suspense and those who enjoy books about abuse victims finding freedom and healing.

[Karla · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts:
This book is part of the Alaskan Refuge series by Alana Terry. I must say that after reading this book I am eagerly awaiting her next in the series. This tale is one that is guaranteed to keep you in suspense throughout.

All of the characters are described in such a detailed realistic way that you feel the deep emotions as you walk alongside Kimmie on her difficult life journey. This young lady who would sacrifice anything for her little brother, who has suffered alongside his sister , at the hand of a stepfather. Their past has been filled with terror and abuse. Alana exhibits her talent in drawing her readers into these individuals' lives. Along comes a stater trooper who shares Kimmie's commitment to justice and who also shares her love of the Lord.

The plot is full of twists and turns, keeping the reader totally engrossed from beginning to end. The rugged countryside of Alaska is perfect for this adventure. You feel the cold as the two young people attempt to escape a horrible situation.

This is definitely a five star book!! The underlying theme of God's goodness and faithfulness to see us through any troubles remains with the reader for some time after reading this book. What a great reminder that He will forgive our past and give us hope for the future.


This book was received from CelebrateLit. The thoughts and opinions expressed are honest and my own.

[Lafourche Parish Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

Identity Theft, Termination Dust, and Frost Heaves by Alana Terry were suspenseful quick reads. The three books make up Terry’s Alaskan Refuge series set in rural Alaska. Since each book tells its own story, reading them in a particular order is not necessary.

In Identity Theft, several years prior, Lacy and her boyfriend are at the wrong place at the wrong time. They witness something that puts them in danger. Lacy is taken to Alaska to start a new life. She is to have no contact with her family and friends. She often wonders about her boyfriend. Did she really see him die, or could he still be alive?

In Termination Dust, Kimmie, her mother, and brother are trying to make the best of their lives under the control of her abusive stepfather. When Kimmie’s mother unexpectedly commits suicide, Kimmie is determined to do whatever it takes to keep her brother safe.

In Frost Heaves, Jade and her family left a cult a few years back after Jade became pregnant with her daughter Dez. When Dez disappears, Jade must look back at her life with the cult to consider if any cult members may be responsible.

All three books were very good, but my favorite was Termination Dust. These were the first Alana Terry books I read, and I’ll certainly be looking to read more of her books.

Availability: Book
Rating: **** Stars (I really liked it)
Reviewer: Crystal, Branch Librarian

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a HUGE fan of Christian Suspense and Mystery books. So I truly enjoyed this book. I stayed up WAY too late to finish it, because I just couldn't put it down!

I loved seeing how Kimmie treated her little brother and did her best to keep him safe. I rejoiced as Kimmie learned to forgive and heal from the abuse of her past. I enjoyed learning a little more about Alaska, where my grandparents lived and ministered for over 30 years.

I always have mixed feelings about books that address abuse, especially mental and physical abuse, as I have lived through it myself. I like to see a character rise above the hard things and become a better person in spite of the trials.

I know that Jesus is the wonderful Counselor, and he can heal the deepest, darkest broken places in my heart. But abuse is not erased by saying a quick prayer, or acknowledging your forgiveness. The scars from abuse might always be present in a person’s life.

I think Alana addressed the subject very well, and I was satisfied by the ending. But if you have a history of abuse, especially from a father figure, you might want to prayerfully consider before reading this book.

But if you want a gripping, exciting, even romantic adventure, this one is definitely for you!

[Anne Rightler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Termination Dust is part of the Alaskan Refuge series by Alana Terry. Having read a number of this author's books, I was looking forward to reading this one and was not disappointed. Terry expertly draws readers right into her stories and this story is no exception. Kimmie is a young woman who has a past and a present that are filled with terror and abuse. After her mother's traumatic death, she knows she has to get out but how? Where? Who will help? Surely God has more for her than the confusion and fear she has lived with for years. Is the termination dust on the mountains a sign that something is about to change? With great characters (a handsome, caring State Trooper, a nasty step-father, a sweet innocent brother, and a sister who left a long time ago) twists and turns to the plot, romantic tension, a touch of faith, lots of suspense and action, Termination Dust keeps the reader's interest high. Loved the ending...but you'll have to read that for yourself. Be sure to get your book as soon as possible.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required and opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Terry is not afraid to write about tough issues. Here she tackles co-dependence and abuse. The main character is Kimmie. After her mother apparently committed suicide, Kimmie is left with her physically (but not sexually) abusive step-father, taking care of her four year old half brother.

Kimmie's character was a bit puzzling to me. She didn't seem to want to escape the harmful situation she was in, then suddenly decided to do so. And her mother never escaped, even though she had also suffered physical abuse and there had been a way out. We also find out that the communication of important issues from her mother to Kimmie was nonexistent. I thought those aspects of her mother odd as she was described as a committed Christian. Why did she let her no good husband batter her children for years?

I do like Terry's writing style. It is clear and engaging. Even though there is really no mystery included, there is a bit of suspense. Readers who like novels dealing with abuse issues and including a little romance on the side will like this novel.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I am glad there are books that give readers hope following abuse, they are hard to read. The book may trigger some emotional response for those who have been abused or had a family member murdered.
Alana Terry has tackled a difficult topic - death of a mom that looks like a suicide but may in fact be a murder, done by the step father. Kimmie has many decisions to make - she needs to save herself and her little brother. Set in Alaska, Alana Terry uses the knowledge she gained as a resident to make aspects of the plot reflect real life. The story is well-written and is full of suspense as well as an innocent romance. Even though it is a shorter book - the main characters are well-developed and readers will become attached to them and wonder what is next in their lives..

I would not hesitate to add Termination Dust to my K-12 Christian School library but would probably limit it to high school students due to the murder and the details shared. While the details are not gruesome, they provide enough information to be upsetting to younger readers.

I want to thank Celebrate Lit for the complimentary e-copy of Termination Dust. This is my honest review.

[Carol Keen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kimmie's mom is dead. She took her own life and now Kimmie has an abusive step-father to deal with, while desperately trying to keep her three-year-old little brother safe. Technically, he's a half brother, but that doesn't matter to Kimmie. She has way bigger issues to cope with. Pip has had so much abuse that he will not talk. This book is very forthright with the abuse issues. Kimmie has to get herself and her brother free, without winding up dead, if she is going to get to the truth behind what may not be the suicide of her Mom. That's a tall order for anyone, much less a young person. Kimmie really shows the cycle that many abused people are stuck in. The endless loop of strenth followed by major weakness. I felt so bad for her, I just wanted her and Pip free and healed from all this pain! It's a God-sized issued that covers so many topics I can't even list them all here. It definaly has a bucket load of emotions and drama. You have to read it to find out what happened and why.

Celebrate Lit provided this copy for me. My review is left freely and contains my perspective of this book.

[Esther Filbrun · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got to listen to this book recently on the Unabridged podcast, and what an interesting story! I love how Terry takes a setting that is somewhat familiar and turns it completely on its head—all while letting God’s grace and love shine through as only He can do.

This book, like many of her others, was quite suspenseful. I had a hard time putting it down! It’s not one of my top favorites of hers—perhaps because I was really annoyed by a couple of the characters whom I was supposed to be annoyed with—but it was still a very good story. One of my favorite parts was how the main character kept referring back to her mother’s Bible verse songs to encourage herself in the different situations she faced. And Pip. I loved that little guy.

Recommended for all Christian suspense lovers who enjoy a slight twist of romance as well. A good book overall, and worth a read, although I doubt I would ever re-read it.

Trigger warning: One of the major themes in this book is that the main character’s mother has just died, apparently by suicide. This runs throughout the book, with a few details here and there—none gruesome.

[Mary Hake · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story set in the wilds of Alaska pits a young woman against her abusive stepfather, with seemingly nowhere to turn for help. Kimmie struggles to protect her young brother, Pip, who doesn’t even speak at age three. The ordeal she faces at “home” is something no one should ever have to endure. Can she escape these terrors and rescue Pip from such an unhealthy situation? Her rich sister, Meg, seems so far removed that she and Kimmie hardly connect anymore. Could Meg offer a refuge in the city? This powerful tale tugs at the heart. You can’t help but root for Kimmie to find her way free of her stepfather’s clutches. The characters seem quite authentic, but I didn’t notice any redeeming qualities in the villain. Kimmie may be naïve, but she is brave and determined. The setting also works against her, so it’s like another character in the book. Some things seemed to wrap up a bit too easily, but were welcome after the intensity of the trials faced. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Katie Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! This book was a heart wrenching story. It was a very easy read and was worth it. The story follows Kimmie and her brother Pip as they find freedom from an abusive father/stepfather. I was so inspired by Kimmie. She was able to stand up and stand firm in a way that many are not able to.
I think the story was very interesting and a wonderful concept. I think it really encapsulated the thought processes that many coming out of abuse go through. It gathered up the thoughts before, during, and after a victim goes through abuse.
I think the power of Christ was really captured. I loved that the characters were able to trust in His power. They saw the way God was moving and were able to maintain their faith throughout. I wish the text would have captured some of the doubts that I think Kimmie would have felt.

Final Thoughts-I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars. I think it was a great concept. I feel that the writing was lacking at times. It was a little too simple. I feel that she could have added a lot more depth and variety to the characters and the story line.

[Michelle Castaneda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Termination Dust by Alana Terry is part of the Alaskan Refuge Christian Suspense series. I read book one in this series and I was excited to pick up this one and read more. I really enjoy the way Alaska and its particular characteristics feature in this author's novels. And while I liked the first novel in this series, I loved this one so much more. This novel was full of suspense. The suspense kept coming and I had trouble putting this book down. The domestic violence in this novel was also very well described and hard to read at times. I think the author did a fantastic job at drawing in readers and not letting go. I look forward to more books in this series. I recommend this novel to readers that love suspense. I think it is a wonderful quick read that many would enjoy. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alana Terry does it again! Set amidst an intriguing Alaskan backdrop, this Christian suspense pulls out all the stops. A complex heroine that is relatable and conveys so much emotion is trapped in a horrifically abusive situation along with a little brother, and I really felt her pain, fear, and attempt for survival. Our author just manages to glue you to the page with this one, as she always does. A beautiful thread of faith and relationships makes an appearance to bring about a very satisfying conclusion. Our author brings perfect parts adventurous backdrop, heart-pounding suspense, and the truth of the Gospel all in one neat and enjoyable package you never want to end. If you're looking for a page-turning suspense, look no further than Termination Dust from this master storyteller!



I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Termination Dust captured my attention from the moment I began reading the book. My heart broke for Kimmie and her brother Pip. With the death of their mother and an abusive father, I knew they needed to escape. Alana Terry did an excellent job of bringing the characters and story to life.

Full of danger, mystery, and more, this book has a lot to offer readers. Kimmie demonstrated faith and dedication to keep her younger brother safe. Mystery surrounds the death of their mother and people come along to support and help them.

The one person in the story I was not sure about was Kimmie’s older sister Meg. She seems to be the unknown quantity in the story. Flirting with State Trooper Taylor Tanner, she lost my respect since Meg is married.

But all in all I enjoyed the book.

I received a copy of this book for my fair and honest review.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Termination Dust" by Alana Terry is a fast paced standalone novel about abuse. This book is also a love story and I love the ending, yes, it is obvious that this scene is coming, but the way it is done is so is so fantastic.

I am kind of ashamed to admit that I liked this book because it is basically a story about abuse and who likes abuse. I really think "Termination Dust" is my favorite of all of Alana Terry's books that I have read. The characters are true to life. I could see the scenes unfold in my mind as I was reading them. I cannot wait to to read the other books in this series.

I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alana does an excellent job of tackling hard issues with Kimmie's story! Kimmie has suffered for years at the hands of her abusive step father. Now that her mom has supposedly committed suicide, it's up to her to get her half brother out of the path of his father. Alana does an excellent job of writing about the hard subject of abuse without being too graphic. It's a hard line to toe when writing about things like abuse, and I thought she did a good job.
I like how Kimmie's sister comes into play with the story, and the things the two of them must work through.
Another great story by Alana Terry!
I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review and is in no way influenced by receiving a complimentary copy.

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Termination dust

I loved reading books set in Alaska, I always learned something new about Alaska

This book was fast reading, it kept me interested from start to finish. It was a hard book to read because of Chuck being so mean. Kimmie Mom died at the first of it so she is left to care for her little brother. She keeps trying to find a why to escape from her stepdad. Will she ever get away?

I loved Kimmie, she was so brave and determined. Her sister wanted to help but was so irritating at times.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. This review is my own opinion.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. I only knew there was a brief reference to the first book because I read the first book.

I really liked this one. The tension surrounding Kimmie and Pip and what happened to her mother and what REALLY happened is nail-biting. I was just waiting for the other show to drop. I can’t imagine living in constant fear with the person you live with.

This is a fast read, not a very long book, so this is a great one to pick up to get your suspense fix.

A copy of this book was given to me through the Celebrate Lit Team. All opinions are my own.