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Leaving Darkness
Long-haul truck driver Lowell Ferguson is on the brink of suicide. He is haunted by the guilt of a horrible secret from his senior year of high school. Therapy and antidepressants aren't able to lift him out of depression. At twenty-eight years old, he believes his life has dissolved into a meaningless annoyance. Only the strong bond with his lone friend-a Chihuahua named Rufus-keeps him from choosing death. But when Lowell learns Rufus may have cancer, he fears there will be no reason left to live if his beloved dog dies. While awaiting the diagnosis, he comes across a flier for a Christian support group promising hope and freedom. A skeptic and an apatheist, he nonetheless reluctantly decides to join the group. Through this joining, he finds what he has been yearning for-a path toward leaving the darkness of depression. This first step provides Lowell the courage to do what he must to escape his guilt and finally confront his past.
276 pages, Paperback
Published October 31, 2018
About the author
Greg Schaffer
8 books50 followersI am a Christian, husband, father (to rescue dogs), veteran, and information security executive consultant. My novels include Forgiveness (2014), Leaving Darkness (2018), and Fatherhood (in progress, planned for 2024 release). I also have published Summer’s Drowning (2013), a collection of poems, and From the Loft (2017), a collection of horse-humor articles.
I wrote my first novel (unpublished) in high school. It sits in some nondescript box in my basement in its original form on various types of ruled paper. Perhaps one day I will resurrect it.
I began work on what would eventually become Forgiveness in 1991 as a method to deal with my divorce. I found myself fantasizing about “what if” scenarios. What if we hadn’t married early? What could I have done differently to prevent the pain I struggled with daily? I needed to live that fantasy, at least through writing. I wrote in the basement wood-paneled bedroom of my post-divorce house I shared with three others, I wrote during lunch at work in my cubicle, and anywhere I could find a few free minutes away from the world.
The positive reactions to Forgiveness urged me to create a prequel focused on one mysterious character. With Temptations of the Innocent, I created such a complicated world comprising of this life and a fictionalized (certainly not Biblically based) version of the afterlife. I didn’t stop there, adding in an antagonist who is pure evil (if not the devil himself) and a Soviet plot to infiltrate the Catholic church. This title is currently not available as I retool it as Before Forgiveness.
In January of 2017, I received a God nudge to pick up the pen again. I sketched out a three-act story on a piece of paper that would tell the story of healing through small group ministries. I had at that time been involved with one such ministry for several years and was very passionate about it, having seen firsthand the positive changes this eight-week group had on people willing to change. Leaving Darkness was published in the fall of 2018.
My work in progress is Fatherhood, a story about abortion from the father’s point of view.
Web https://secondchancebook.org/
Twitter https://twitter.com/newtnoise
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/gregschaffer...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gregschaffe...
Email greg.schaffer@secondchancebook.org
I wrote my first novel (unpublished) in high school. It sits in some nondescript box in my basement in its original form on various types of ruled paper. Perhaps one day I will resurrect it.
I began work on what would eventually become Forgiveness in 1991 as a method to deal with my divorce. I found myself fantasizing about “what if” scenarios. What if we hadn’t married early? What could I have done differently to prevent the pain I struggled with daily? I needed to live that fantasy, at least through writing. I wrote in the basement wood-paneled bedroom of my post-divorce house I shared with three others, I wrote during lunch at work in my cubicle, and anywhere I could find a few free minutes away from the world.
The positive reactions to Forgiveness urged me to create a prequel focused on one mysterious character. With Temptations of the Innocent, I created such a complicated world comprising of this life and a fictionalized (certainly not Biblically based) version of the afterlife. I didn’t stop there, adding in an antagonist who is pure evil (if not the devil himself) and a Soviet plot to infiltrate the Catholic church. This title is currently not available as I retool it as Before Forgiveness.
In January of 2017, I received a God nudge to pick up the pen again. I sketched out a three-act story on a piece of paper that would tell the story of healing through small group ministries. I had at that time been involved with one such ministry for several years and was very passionate about it, having seen firsthand the positive changes this eight-week group had on people willing to change. Leaving Darkness was published in the fall of 2018.
My work in progress is Fatherhood, a story about abortion from the father’s point of view.
Web https://secondchancebook.org/
Twitter https://twitter.com/newtnoise
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/gregschaffer...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gregschaffe...
Email greg.schaffer@secondchancebook.org
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
January 30, 2019
A book that shows a focus on depression and guilt, and a longing for a past that never was.
We are shown two individuals that grew up together, an accident that changes one and the other goes on with his life like it never happened.
Choice, whether direct or indirect and the affect they have on us, and we see how each handle this with surprising results.
I could see God’s hand in here and how he is accepted and forgiveness, from those injured to oneself, the hardest of all.
I found this one a compelling page turner and was finished in no time, and I loved little Rufus!
I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.
We are shown two individuals that grew up together, an accident that changes one and the other goes on with his life like it never happened.
Choice, whether direct or indirect and the affect they have on us, and we see how each handle this with surprising results.
I could see God’s hand in here and how he is accepted and forgiveness, from those injured to oneself, the hardest of all.
I found this one a compelling page turner and was finished in no time, and I loved little Rufus!
I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.
February 18, 2019
After reading Leaving Darkness, I'd say this: it's an interesting story with an... interesting premise. I'm not a huge fan of stories with heavy themes (i.e. suicide / death / depression), but I think this book had a pretty good balance of darker themes and everyday life, if that makes sense. I also liked the writing style- it took awhile to get used to right after reading a really light fluffy YA contemporary, but once I settled into it I enjoyed it- Greg's descriptions especially were really brought to life.
Overall, I did think Leaving Darkness was pretty good. However, to be completely honest, it did feel like a very average book to me. I liked it, but there wasn't really much that I noticed that would bring it to the "very good" bookshelf (also, can I say... the cover is... well, it's very blurry. *grimaces*). 3 stars.
*FTC DISCLOSURE: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.*
Overall, I did think Leaving Darkness was pretty good. However, to be completely honest, it did feel like a very average book to me. I liked it, but there wasn't really much that I noticed that would bring it to the "very good" bookshelf (also, can I say... the cover is... well, it's very blurry. *grimaces*). 3 stars.
*FTC DISCLOSURE: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.*
February 17, 2019
This is a good story about the healing that can come about through small group ministries expressing the love of Jesus.
Schaffer has included some interesting issues in this novel. One is asking forgiveness for an incident when the offended person has long moved past the event. Lowell wanted to set right the past offense with which he struggled so much. His sister asks him if what Lowell wants to do is just for his own purposes, a selfish act that might bring back hurt for the other person. Something for each of us to think about.
Another issue concerns the choices we make in life. Lowell had anticipated a college football scholarship and a professional career but an injury prevented it. While Lowell struggled with depression and isolation, he ultimately began making healing choices. His close friend from high school set the accumulation of money and prestige as his goal in life. He made choices to that end and we see the ultimate fruit of his life too.
Schaffer's writing style is not sophisticated. The characters are regular people working through the daily struggles in their lives. There is just a hint of suspense and a touch of romance and the ending seemed a little to convenient to me. Nonetheless, the novel is a good one about healing that can happen when Jesus comes into a person's life and a group of people care for each other.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Schaffer has included some interesting issues in this novel. One is asking forgiveness for an incident when the offended person has long moved past the event. Lowell wanted to set right the past offense with which he struggled so much. His sister asks him if what Lowell wants to do is just for his own purposes, a selfish act that might bring back hurt for the other person. Something for each of us to think about.
Another issue concerns the choices we make in life. Lowell had anticipated a college football scholarship and a professional career but an injury prevented it. While Lowell struggled with depression and isolation, he ultimately began making healing choices. His close friend from high school set the accumulation of money and prestige as his goal in life. He made choices to that end and we see the ultimate fruit of his life too.
Schaffer's writing style is not sophisticated. The characters are regular people working through the daily struggles in their lives. There is just a hint of suspense and a touch of romance and the ending seemed a little to convenient to me. Nonetheless, the novel is a good one about healing that can happen when Jesus comes into a person's life and a group of people care for each other.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
March 30, 2019
Lowell Ferguson is haunted by a past secret from his senior year in high school. He's on the brink of suicide until he comes across a flyer for a Christian support group.
When the past defines the future, something must change or torture attacks the mind. That's where Lowell finds himself. He must face his past.
This book takes the reader into the mind of a person who struggles with darkness. It gives anyone who wrestles with their past a blueprint of hope for the future.
When the past defines the future, something must change or torture attacks the mind. That's where Lowell finds himself. He must face his past.
This book takes the reader into the mind of a person who struggles with darkness. It gives anyone who wrestles with their past a blueprint of hope for the future.
February 28, 2019
Will Leaving Darkness Offer You Hope?
Written in a natural, relational style, Leaving Darkness tells one man’s journey through his pain to healing. Greg Schaffer creates a protagonist you care about, and his supporting characters are equally interesting and relatable. That said, the antagonist—if he is that–is a different matter.
It’s hard to tell what “Allan’s” role in the story is. Still, that character was the most stereotypical of them all. I could predict his moves not because I got to know a character super well but because he behaved like every other selfish, successful man in fiction.
After a minor inconsistency in the beginning, everything fell into place. Actually, that’s one of the problems with it. With little time and effort, change happened and things just seemed to magically fall into place. Even before conversion (which I was thankful for, actually), after a couple of visits, Lowell nearly changes his entire way of thinking overnight.
As a whole, understanding, change, and repentance all fell a little “on the nose” for me. That and a particular line, something like, “How do you expect God to forgive you if you won’t forgive yourself?” were some of my biggest complaints.
Oddly enough, one of the book’s biggest weaknesses could be one of it’s greatest strengths.
I don’t know how else to describe it, but the book reads a bit like someone took a “how to” book on dealing with depression and addiction and fictionalized it. Instead of “anecdotes” to illustrate a point, the entire manual was laid out for the reader in a fictional setting.
I don’t exaggerate. One meeting is told in such precise detail that I didn’t feel I was “emotionally there” as much as I was intellectually present to learn the day’s lesson. It’s better than that sounds, but it’s still… textbook.
I so wanted to love this book.
And I can’t say I dislike it. I don’t. Leaving Darkness just feels a little too neat and tidy. The people I know who deal with depression cannot ask for help. Most aren’t capable of it. They wouldn’t see a flyer on the wall and think, “Maybe I should see what that’s about.” They can’t choose to leave the darkness behind. They don’t even try. Instead, others have to bring the light to them, set it nearby, and be with them, helping without being asked.
Because they won’t ask. It will never happen.
In case that sounds too dark and fatalistic, I got that from someone who lives with it daily. Who sees it in her extended family—who knows just how bad it gets. From someone who has to bring that light when even hers begins to dim from the constant darkness she tries to fight in those she loves.
So maybe I didn’t love it as much as I hoped I would when I requested a review copy.
Still, I have to applaud Mr. Schaffer for addressing a difficult topic. Yet another non-fiction, self-help book wouldn’t likely make an impact, but maybe a novel like this, even if it’s a little “convenient” at times, would help someone see that they aren’t alone.
And if one person sees that, perhaps he or she will also see that there’s hope and help to get through the darkness. It likely won’t happen as neatly or quickly as in this book, but I think most people understand that sometimes this is how things happen in fiction.
This is my prayer for this book.
Written in a natural, relational style, Leaving Darkness tells one man’s journey through his pain to healing. Greg Schaffer creates a protagonist you care about, and his supporting characters are equally interesting and relatable. That said, the antagonist—if he is that–is a different matter.
It’s hard to tell what “Allan’s” role in the story is. Still, that character was the most stereotypical of them all. I could predict his moves not because I got to know a character super well but because he behaved like every other selfish, successful man in fiction.
After a minor inconsistency in the beginning, everything fell into place. Actually, that’s one of the problems with it. With little time and effort, change happened and things just seemed to magically fall into place. Even before conversion (which I was thankful for, actually), after a couple of visits, Lowell nearly changes his entire way of thinking overnight.
As a whole, understanding, change, and repentance all fell a little “on the nose” for me. That and a particular line, something like, “How do you expect God to forgive you if you won’t forgive yourself?” were some of my biggest complaints.
Oddly enough, one of the book’s biggest weaknesses could be one of it’s greatest strengths.
I don’t know how else to describe it, but the book reads a bit like someone took a “how to” book on dealing with depression and addiction and fictionalized it. Instead of “anecdotes” to illustrate a point, the entire manual was laid out for the reader in a fictional setting.
I don’t exaggerate. One meeting is told in such precise detail that I didn’t feel I was “emotionally there” as much as I was intellectually present to learn the day’s lesson. It’s better than that sounds, but it’s still… textbook.
I so wanted to love this book.
And I can’t say I dislike it. I don’t. Leaving Darkness just feels a little too neat and tidy. The people I know who deal with depression cannot ask for help. Most aren’t capable of it. They wouldn’t see a flyer on the wall and think, “Maybe I should see what that’s about.” They can’t choose to leave the darkness behind. They don’t even try. Instead, others have to bring the light to them, set it nearby, and be with them, helping without being asked.
Because they won’t ask. It will never happen.
In case that sounds too dark and fatalistic, I got that from someone who lives with it daily. Who sees it in her extended family—who knows just how bad it gets. From someone who has to bring that light when even hers begins to dim from the constant darkness she tries to fight in those she loves.
So maybe I didn’t love it as much as I hoped I would when I requested a review copy.
Still, I have to applaud Mr. Schaffer for addressing a difficult topic. Yet another non-fiction, self-help book wouldn’t likely make an impact, but maybe a novel like this, even if it’s a little “convenient” at times, would help someone see that they aren’t alone.
And if one person sees that, perhaps he or she will also see that there’s hope and help to get through the darkness. It likely won’t happen as neatly or quickly as in this book, but I think most people understand that sometimes this is how things happen in fiction.
This is my prayer for this book.
February 27, 2019
As you can tell from the synopsis, this is a book with some pretty heavy topics, and I will say that it is probably not for everyone to read. There were parts I struggled with because it hurt my heart. But I know people who have been in similar situations, and that most likely caused some memories to surface without me even realizing it. The truth is, stuff like this happens every day, and while it is so heartbreaking to read about, if you stick with it you get a glimpse of how God can transform anyone.
Although this writing style may not have been my favorite, there were good points about the book that should not go unmentioned. There is a story of hope. Perhaps a person who is struggling in this very same way could pick up a copy of this book, and get a picture of the One who can ultimately save them. Perhaps someone who is struggling picks up this book and realizes they are not alone. You just never know, and for these reasons alone I feel it is a beneficial story to read.
As I mentioned, this book isn’t for everyone. Please know going in that there are things you will read that will break your heart. There are things that may disgust you. But there is a purpose for that – to show how broken a person may get before they realize that they need help. I was easily able to set aside personal reading preferences to see the ultimate goal of the book – to help people. I hope that you can too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Although this writing style may not have been my favorite, there were good points about the book that should not go unmentioned. There is a story of hope. Perhaps a person who is struggling in this very same way could pick up a copy of this book, and get a picture of the One who can ultimately save them. Perhaps someone who is struggling picks up this book and realizes they are not alone. You just never know, and for these reasons alone I feel it is a beneficial story to read.
As I mentioned, this book isn’t for everyone. Please know going in that there are things you will read that will break your heart. There are things that may disgust you. But there is a purpose for that – to show how broken a person may get before they realize that they need help. I was easily able to set aside personal reading preferences to see the ultimate goal of the book – to help people. I hope that you can too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 26, 2019
If the author was going for a dark story with in your face realism, he definitely achieved it. It is not an easy book to read and at times I felt darkness surround me. The author takes two people as teens that leads them on a road to destruction . It will span into their adulthood that will find them on the brink of depression and guilt.
It's hard to say why one of them carried the guilt all those years while the other buried it deep inside. Lowell is the kind of person who was a follower in his teens. He trusted that his friend Alan would do the right thing but never did. One traumatic event can have different effects on people. In this case Lowell spiraled out of control . He carried the guilt of that night with him everywhere he went. He knew that he would never be at peace until he made things right. Lowell became a very reclusive person with only one thing important to him. He had been given a dog who made him feel alive again and they became constant companions.
Alan became successful and very powerful. He is driven by money, deceit and greed. He believed that money and power were the most important things in the world. Under all that superficial fake exterior is a lonely, bitter man.
Lowell slowly changes and tries to turn his life around. He is surrounded by friends who share Jesus with him and I could see his heart changing. There are some great moments in the story where Lowell searches his heart and struggles with trusting God. Rick is someone who reaches out to Lowell and becomes like a mentor to him. I had a few reservations about Rick, but overall a good character with a big heart. There were a few times I thought the story got a bit preachy and wanted the author to not continually have Rick witness to Lowell. Sometimes we need to back off and just pray for someone.
The story is filled with alcoholism , greed, infidelity and a lack of believing in God. Two people who experienced the same traumatic event will go in different directions to run from the truth. Lowell was easy to identify with because he wanted to give his burdens to God. He was a broken man and wanted to make things right.
I felt a real tug on my heart towards Alan. He is the one that doesn't want to admit he has done something wrong. He wants to keep his reputation stellar but the past is quickly catching up to him. How many of us have tried to run from our past? We become angry and will do anything to run from our past. This story illustrates the pain someone goes through when they are lost in the world. God always has a way for us to not only deal with the past but lets us choose to forgive others, to forgive ourselves and be set free from the bondage of what the enemy has used to keep us as his hostage believing lies.
Lowell and Alan will take a journey that will either lead them to freedom or to continue a life of deceit and lies. Which path will they choose?
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
It's hard to say why one of them carried the guilt all those years while the other buried it deep inside. Lowell is the kind of person who was a follower in his teens. He trusted that his friend Alan would do the right thing but never did. One traumatic event can have different effects on people. In this case Lowell spiraled out of control . He carried the guilt of that night with him everywhere he went. He knew that he would never be at peace until he made things right. Lowell became a very reclusive person with only one thing important to him. He had been given a dog who made him feel alive again and they became constant companions.
Alan became successful and very powerful. He is driven by money, deceit and greed. He believed that money and power were the most important things in the world. Under all that superficial fake exterior is a lonely, bitter man.
Lowell slowly changes and tries to turn his life around. He is surrounded by friends who share Jesus with him and I could see his heart changing. There are some great moments in the story where Lowell searches his heart and struggles with trusting God. Rick is someone who reaches out to Lowell and becomes like a mentor to him. I had a few reservations about Rick, but overall a good character with a big heart. There were a few times I thought the story got a bit preachy and wanted the author to not continually have Rick witness to Lowell. Sometimes we need to back off and just pray for someone.
The story is filled with alcoholism , greed, infidelity and a lack of believing in God. Two people who experienced the same traumatic event will go in different directions to run from the truth. Lowell was easy to identify with because he wanted to give his burdens to God. He was a broken man and wanted to make things right.
I felt a real tug on my heart towards Alan. He is the one that doesn't want to admit he has done something wrong. He wants to keep his reputation stellar but the past is quickly catching up to him. How many of us have tried to run from our past? We become angry and will do anything to run from our past. This story illustrates the pain someone goes through when they are lost in the world. God always has a way for us to not only deal with the past but lets us choose to forgive others, to forgive ourselves and be set free from the bondage of what the enemy has used to keep us as his hostage believing lies.
Lowell and Alan will take a journey that will either lead them to freedom or to continue a life of deceit and lies. Which path will they choose?
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
February 21, 2019
Leaving Darkness touches on dark topics including suicide and depression. The story is about Lowell Ferguson, a 28-year-old truck driver, who is dealing with the guilt of a secret event from his senior year in high school. Nothing is helping him get out of his dark depression. He has tried everything, but nothing is working. The only person keeping him alive is his Chihuahua named Rufus but learns that Rufus might have cancer. While waiting for the diagnosis, he comes across a flyer for a Christian support group. Ferguson doesn’t believe in the whole God and Jesus things but still decides to go. Throughout the book, we see Ferguson's journey from the darkness of his depression to the light of God.
It is hard reading stories about suicide and depression especially if you know someone who is struggling or who have died from depression. I believe our society does not look at these topics in the correct way. Suicide is a symptom of depression it isn’t something people just do. Depression messes with the chemistry in your brain and makes you think things that aren’t true. Suicide isn’t a bad thing. For example, we don’t blame people who are chain smokers and died from lung cancer as bad.
Suicide isn’t always the answer, but sometimes the disease of addiction and/or depression causes the symptom of suicide to become very strong. Then there are people who suffer from severe debilitating chronic pain. We don’t make our animals suffer. Just food for thought.
This story really hit home to me because I have recently been dealing with a good friend who tried to commit suicide. I don’t agree with Christians saying people who commit suicide will go to Hell. That is 100% false. As someone who sees the other side and has been to the other side (not because of suicide) knows for a fact that there is no Hell especially for people who commit suicide. I think it is 100% cruel telling their love ones their daughter or son, mother or father, grandmother or grandfather will be going to Hell because their depression killed themselves. Therefore, I get really frustrated with religion.
Another topic Leaving Darkness talks about is forgiveness. We need to let go of things from the past and move forward. We spend so much time on our failures of the past we lose out on the time we have now.
Greg Schaffer did an amazing job of telling Lowell Ferguson’s journey of dealing with depression, forgiveness, loneliness, anxiety, and fear. It has shown how important friendships, relationships, and family are in helping you get through tough times in life.
I enjoyed this book even with dark topics, but it sure did show there is light at the end of the tunnel.
It is hard reading stories about suicide and depression especially if you know someone who is struggling or who have died from depression. I believe our society does not look at these topics in the correct way. Suicide is a symptom of depression it isn’t something people just do. Depression messes with the chemistry in your brain and makes you think things that aren’t true. Suicide isn’t a bad thing. For example, we don’t blame people who are chain smokers and died from lung cancer as bad.
Suicide isn’t always the answer, but sometimes the disease of addiction and/or depression causes the symptom of suicide to become very strong. Then there are people who suffer from severe debilitating chronic pain. We don’t make our animals suffer. Just food for thought.
This story really hit home to me because I have recently been dealing with a good friend who tried to commit suicide. I don’t agree with Christians saying people who commit suicide will go to Hell. That is 100% false. As someone who sees the other side and has been to the other side (not because of suicide) knows for a fact that there is no Hell especially for people who commit suicide. I think it is 100% cruel telling their love ones their daughter or son, mother or father, grandmother or grandfather will be going to Hell because their depression killed themselves. Therefore, I get really frustrated with religion.
Another topic Leaving Darkness talks about is forgiveness. We need to let go of things from the past and move forward. We spend so much time on our failures of the past we lose out on the time we have now.
Greg Schaffer did an amazing job of telling Lowell Ferguson’s journey of dealing with depression, forgiveness, loneliness, anxiety, and fear. It has shown how important friendships, relationships, and family are in helping you get through tough times in life.
I enjoyed this book even with dark topics, but it sure did show there is light at the end of the tunnel.
February 15, 2019
Long-haul truck driver Lowell Ferguson is on the brink of suicide. He is haunted by the guilt of a horrible secret from his senior year of high school. Therapy and antidepressants aren’t able to lift him out of depression. At twenty-eight years old, he believes his life has dissolved into a meaningless annoyance. Only the strong bond with his lone friend—a Chihuahua named Rufus—keeps him from choosing death. But when Lowell learns Rufus may have cancer, he fears there will be no reason left to live if his beloved dog dies.
While awaiting the diagnosis, he comes across a flier for a Christian support group promising hope and freedom. A skeptic and an apatheist, he nonetheless reluctantly decides to join the group. Through this joining, he finds what he has been yearning for—a path toward leaving the darkness of depression. This first step provides Lowell the courage to do what he must to escape his guilt and finally confront his past.
My Thoughts: Suicide and depression are not topics that everyone wants to hear about. But this is a novel about overcoming with the help of Christian friends and most importantly, God. The author has given the reader hope that one can "leave the darkness" of depression and open the door for God to come in.
This is a novel that deals with forgiveness; not just asking forgiveness for our wrongs, but forgiving ourselves and letting the past go. It is a story of not to set your treasures here on earth.
The author has done an excellent job showing us the importance of family, relationships, and truth.
I enjoyed this novel, one that has so many truths in it. It is wonderful that the author gives hope to shose in need with the groups that are out there to help them and making them aware in this novel.
This is an enjoyable read for anyone.
While awaiting the diagnosis, he comes across a flier for a Christian support group promising hope and freedom. A skeptic and an apatheist, he nonetheless reluctantly decides to join the group. Through this joining, he finds what he has been yearning for—a path toward leaving the darkness of depression. This first step provides Lowell the courage to do what he must to escape his guilt and finally confront his past.
My Thoughts: Suicide and depression are not topics that everyone wants to hear about. But this is a novel about overcoming with the help of Christian friends and most importantly, God. The author has given the reader hope that one can "leave the darkness" of depression and open the door for God to come in.
This is a novel that deals with forgiveness; not just asking forgiveness for our wrongs, but forgiving ourselves and letting the past go. It is a story of not to set your treasures here on earth.
The author has done an excellent job showing us the importance of family, relationships, and truth.
I enjoyed this novel, one that has so many truths in it. It is wonderful that the author gives hope to shose in need with the groups that are out there to help them and making them aware in this novel.
This is an enjoyable read for anyone.
February 19, 2019
The initial description caught my eye. Lowell, a long haul truck driver, is in a dark place. He carries a bottle of pills in his pocket and is almost constantly feeling for them. He is thinking of suicide to end his meaningless life. The only reason he hasn’t followed through is because of his little dog Rufus. Rufus has a tumor that could be cancer. If he dies Lowell does not know any reason to go on with his own life.
Lowell grabbed my heart and pulled many times. He has deep issues troubling him from a couple of things that happened his senior year in high school. An incident that happened involved his then best friend Alan. Both of their lives in years since has taken drastic opposites. Alan seems to be the Golden Boy with everything good happening in his life. He is self absorbed and looks down on those he thinks are wasting their lives. Lowell is in a very depressed state with no help from therapy and very little to live for in his mind. What happens to each of them throughout this novel is eye opening in many ways. A story of guilt, forgiveness and sometimes second chances.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.
Lowell grabbed my heart and pulled many times. He has deep issues troubling him from a couple of things that happened his senior year in high school. An incident that happened involved his then best friend Alan. Both of their lives in years since has taken drastic opposites. Alan seems to be the Golden Boy with everything good happening in his life. He is self absorbed and looks down on those he thinks are wasting their lives. Lowell is in a very depressed state with no help from therapy and very little to live for in his mind. What happens to each of them throughout this novel is eye opening in many ways. A story of guilt, forgiveness and sometimes second chances.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.
February 20, 2019
Leaving Darkness is one of those books that took me a while to enjoy reading. However, I do have to say at no point in the book did I like Alan. I thought he was a self-involved control nut who I wanted to see get his just reward.
On the other hand, the main character, Lowell Ferguson, became my favorite character in the book. Stuck in his belief that his friend Alan had struck and killed a man while driving tore him to pieces. He found himself in a dark place he could not escape. Moreover, he had no real friends, was estranged from his family and worked as a long-distance truck driver, unable to let anyone into his life, except his dog.
But through a series of events, Lowell finds himself attending a recovery group. This group helps him open up, take chances and finally move forward with his life.
In the meantime, Alan believes he has it all – money, power, a great job, a great home, a beautiful wife and two kids. He has everything a man could want. But he ends up throwing it all away and losing everything.
In the meantime, Lowell finds God, friends, his family, and more. By the end of the book, Lowell has more than Alan. So if you want to read a book that involves dreams that are lost and then found again, check out this book for yourself.
On the other hand, the main character, Lowell Ferguson, became my favorite character in the book. Stuck in his belief that his friend Alan had struck and killed a man while driving tore him to pieces. He found himself in a dark place he could not escape. Moreover, he had no real friends, was estranged from his family and worked as a long-distance truck driver, unable to let anyone into his life, except his dog.
But through a series of events, Lowell finds himself attending a recovery group. This group helps him open up, take chances and finally move forward with his life.
In the meantime, Alan believes he has it all – money, power, a great job, a great home, a beautiful wife and two kids. He has everything a man could want. But he ends up throwing it all away and losing everything.
In the meantime, Lowell finds God, friends, his family, and more. By the end of the book, Lowell has more than Alan. So if you want to read a book that involves dreams that are lost and then found again, check out this book for yourself.
February 18, 2019
Leaving Darkness touches upon a real problem in the world – depression. As someone who suffers from depression, I can honestly say that I appreciated this book. Through the ministry of a small group and a helpful older man, Lowell is gently guided to God and the help that only He can give. Lowell learns that God loves him no matter what. He learns that forgiveness is vital in any situation and that true joy can only come if you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
The story also reveals what selfishness does to a person and those around them. The character of Alan, Lowell’s once good friend, is a good example. Alan is selfish and only cares about making money and looking important. In the end, Alan’s past and his greed end the life he had worked so hard to live.
This story has many roots to it. It is a reminder that we all need God in our lives and can do nothing without Him. We all need to forgive ourselves and others in order to have joy. We have to accept the things we cannot change and look to God for the strength we need in order to change the things we can.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
The story also reveals what selfishness does to a person and those around them. The character of Alan, Lowell’s once good friend, is a good example. Alan is selfish and only cares about making money and looking important. In the end, Alan’s past and his greed end the life he had worked so hard to live.
This story has many roots to it. It is a reminder that we all need God in our lives and can do nothing without Him. We all need to forgive ourselves and others in order to have joy. We have to accept the things we cannot change and look to God for the strength we need in order to change the things we can.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 27, 2019
I went outside of my comfort zone by reading this which I rarely do but I'm pleased with the decision I made because it was a story of forgiveness and letting go of the past. I wasn't sure I would connect with any of the characters at first but found myself liking and understanding Lowell as the story progressed.
This isn't an easy read due to the subject matter but it's an interesting read. The characters are undoubtedly flawed but Lowell became likable to me and that is due to his love of his dog Rufus. I have always thought if any human being loves and cares for an animal they must have some redeeming qualities. I liked that Lowell was willing to take responsibility and seek forgiveness for something he was involved in as a teen. As much as I grew to admire Lowell, I became less fond of his friend Alan which is how the author wrote his character.
Overall, I liked the personal growth of Lowell and the path he chose to take. His journey wasn't an easy one but it was one built on faith and I think they are the most important ones to take. I thought the storyline was interesting and some of the secondary characters were likable.
I received a complimentary copy of Leaving Darkness and have given my honest opinion.
This isn't an easy read due to the subject matter but it's an interesting read. The characters are undoubtedly flawed but Lowell became likable to me and that is due to his love of his dog Rufus. I have always thought if any human being loves and cares for an animal they must have some redeeming qualities. I liked that Lowell was willing to take responsibility and seek forgiveness for something he was involved in as a teen. As much as I grew to admire Lowell, I became less fond of his friend Alan which is how the author wrote his character.
Overall, I liked the personal growth of Lowell and the path he chose to take. His journey wasn't an easy one but it was one built on faith and I think they are the most important ones to take. I thought the storyline was interesting and some of the secondary characters were likable.
I received a complimentary copy of Leaving Darkness and have given my honest opinion.
February 23, 2019
Leaving darkness
What a wonderful story. Lowell just cannot let of what happened in the past. I could certainly understand that with what happened to him. Uncertainty of what really happened.
I loved his little dog. His companion for long trips on the road as a truck driver. It always helps to have a love of a dog. He really takes good take of Rufus.
It took me only a few hours to finish this book. It really kept my attention. There is a lot more to the story than Lowell part. I definitely recommend this book.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
What a wonderful story. Lowell just cannot let of what happened in the past. I could certainly understand that with what happened to him. Uncertainty of what really happened.
I loved his little dog. His companion for long trips on the road as a truck driver. It always helps to have a love of a dog. He really takes good take of Rufus.
It took me only a few hours to finish this book. It really kept my attention. There is a lot more to the story than Lowell part. I definitely recommend this book.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
May 21, 2019
Leaving Darkness is a pretty good read. It is not a light read, as it has it deals with some heavy issues. Such as, depression and suicidal thoughts. I found some scenes to be quite difficult at times to read. I love the story deals with how to let go of the past, learning how to forgive, how to find hope, peace, grace and love.
Leaving Darkness will give a reader a feeling of hope and faith. I think those who suffer with the struggles of depression, thoughts of harming themselves or looking and needing inspiration, this book would be for them. I am giving this book four stars.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
Leaving Darkness will give a reader a feeling of hope and faith. I think those who suffer with the struggles of depression, thoughts of harming themselves or looking and needing inspiration, this book would be for them. I am giving this book four stars.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
February 25, 2019
A well-paced and meaningful story. Leaving Darkness is deftly written by an author who knows his subjects and characters well. With a plausible storyline, the reader will find relatable people, emotions and situations. Hope restored is a real thing, although it isn’t always a quick or easy process from darkness to light. I encourage you to enjoy this thought-provoking story.
May 9, 2019
I didn't think this book would move me in any way, but it made me feel a whole lot. The author truly is blessed. He has put a ton of heart into this story, and it left me thinking a lot once I put it down. Leaving Darkness is definitely a book everyone who is struggling (or not) should read.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book per the FTC for review reasons.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book per the FTC for review reasons.
March 1, 2019
I enjoyed reading about Lowell and how he overcomes his depression. He finally finds help and tries to help his friend. This is a very nice book of Christian fiction. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
May 15, 2019
Inspiring story of hope and redemption
Lowell has struggled with the darkness and depression for years. Leaving darkness is his story of finding the path of redemption leaving the darkness behind.
Lowell has struggled with the darkness and depression for years. Leaving darkness is his story of finding the path of redemption leaving the darkness behind.
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February 23, 2019I really liked "Leaving Darkness" by Greg Schaffer but I have a few concerns about the book. I know some people will think these aren't real concerns but for me to give an honest reviews I have to mention them. These are few curse words, yes I know the character saying them isn't a believer, but I don't like reading these in the books I read. Another concern is a recovering alcoholic owes a bar and he is Lowell Ferguson's sponsor from the group. The problem I have is how can you own a bar and serve alcoholic to others when you know what it can do. I know this a judgement call on my part, but I am just being honest here, and yes I know you can be around alcoholic and not drink but this bar owner even puts Jack Daniels in his hamburgers that is sold in his bar. Ok, enough of what I didn't like about the story and on to what I did like. I am giving this book 4 stars. It is a good story.
This story is a wonderful story of how your life can change if you really turn it over to God. I like the fact that Lowell learns that feelings aren't neither good or bad, but it is what you do with them that matters. I like the fact that the author's own encounter with a Christian Support group inspired this novel. I would call this a feel good story although it didn't start out that way.
This book is about giving forgiveness to others and to yourself.
I like the ending of this book and would read a sequel to it because I want to read more about these characters, especiallyAlan because the way the book ended. No. it wasn't a cliff hanger, just left me wanted to know more about how his story goes.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are mine own.
This story is a wonderful story of how your life can change if you really turn it over to God. I like the fact that Lowell learns that feelings aren't neither good or bad, but it is what you do with them that matters. I like the fact that the author's own encounter with a Christian Support group inspired this novel. I would call this a feel good story although it didn't start out that way.
This book is about giving forgiveness to others and to yourself.
I like the ending of this book and would read a sequel to it because I want to read more about these characters, especiallyAlan because the way the book ended. No. it wasn't a cliff hanger, just left me wanted to know more about how his story goes.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are mine own.
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