Time Served

by Blake Kibler

My story is told through a fictional character, Noah – a boy who, for all his troubles, just wants to be normal. But at the age of twenty, Noah is in jail for the murder of his father. Mrs. Sheridan, his prison therapist, encourages Noah to write down the dark thoughts that pound through his brain on a daily basis. As he anxiously awaits his sentencing, he begins to write about events in his life that have led to his current situation. Noah’s story is presented through his writing and a series of interviews with his therapist. It is filled with broken families, terrible choices and ugly truths as he encounters horrific physical abuse and mental abuse by those entrusted with his care. But it is also redemptive, as Noah rediscovers the grace, love and peace that ultimately saves his soul, and the people that helped him along the way. My name is Blake Kibler and I have been a teacher of children with learning disabilities for almost a decade now. When I first started writing this book it was meant to reveal some of the turmoil that my students had gone through in their lives, but it turned into something else. It turned out to be more about me and the struggles I encountered throughout my own life. My father murdered someone that was close to me when I was younger, and it affected me horribly. Writing this book allowed me to face my demons and eventually gave me the strength to forgive my father whom I haven’t talked to in years. This book is mostly based on true stories from my own life but is also inspired by some of the stories I encountered as a teacher.

459 pages, Hardcover

Published September 20, 2021

Reviews

[Melina Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was phenomenal! One of the best books I’ve read in years. It was hard to put down, although at times I wanted to because of some of the horrific things the characters in this story go through. Great ending! I am sure a very helpful book for those who have suffered child abuse or actually anyone who has hate in their heart. Side note…I had no idea when I started reading this that the author lives near me. I had to look him up once several local spots near where I live were mentioned…Made this book even better. It’s a must read!

[Hilda · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I’ve read in a long time! This book grabbed my heart strings by page 5! They way Blake choose to tell Noah’s story was brilliant. Your heart will ache for the boy he was & rejoice for the Man he became. If you are looking for your next book, choose this one. I promise you won’t be sorry!

[Heather Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book!

This book portrays what so many kids live with and experience everyday. As an educator and former foster parent, this book is reality for so many students.

[Morgan Oglesby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally read this book in one sitting. I cried twice. It would have been more but I was in the car with my father the entire time I was reading. Holy crap, this book was SO GOOD!!

[Brandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliantly crafted story of abuse, trauma, and love. A definite must-read.

[Cassie Moon · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5!

This book draws you in. Seeing that it based on where I am from, seeing a few places that are familiar to me made it even more interesting. It has many trigger warnings if you have struggled or are struggling. I would recommend this book over and over again. It is so heart wrenching! Blake Kibler did a great job.

[Eva · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give this 10 stars, I would. I felt every emotion, saw every situation, and heard all the sounds of this book. You will need to be emotionally, physically, and mentally stable to read this book.
There are some language triggers, graphics, and other elements. You will need tissues and more tissues,
I 100% love this book. Thank you, Blake Kibler, for sharing your story.

[Sara Partin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a sad story that turned into a beautiful ending. It took me a couple of months to really pick it up and get invested into it, but once I got to a certain point it was hard to put down.

[Alison Walls · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5