Through Thorny Ways By Jennifer Q. Hunt

Through Thorny Ways

by Jennifer Q. Hunt

Publisher: Independent

Series: Wisteria house

ISBN: 979-8386945664

Having become a quick fan of Jennifer's stories, as soon as she asked me if I would review her book, I said, "Yes!" They're wholesome and full of faith. Who wouldn't want to review her books? She sent me her book for review.

Summary:

Shrouded in scandal and secrets, Arilee Rutledge’s family is as tangled as the thorns surrounding their unwelcoming antebellum mansion. When her brother Davis returns from the Great War, she hopes they will make a new start after a season of devastation. But Davis is haunted by their younger brother’s death and his wife’s committal to the state asylum; while he loses himself in his work, Arilee continues raising his children. Determined to control at least one area of their lives, the siblings hire a former acquaintance to restore their dilapidated home.

Thrown from a carefree boyhood into the horrors of trench warfare, Adam Harrison is broken yet matured by his experiences. He takes a job updating and repairing Wisteria House, not only to pay his way through medical school, but in hopes of winning the woman he has long admired. A startling discovery plunges them all into a series of events revealing dark mysteries and shaking their already-uncertain future.

Can the thorns of grief, pain, and regret ever be cleared from their troubled hearts?

My Review:

Another lovely story by this author! It took me a while to read Through Thorny Ways because we were out of the country. Otherwise I would have had it read in just a couple of days.

The author creates such deep, meaningful characters and I enjoy getting to know them... most of them. hahaha some aren't the greatest (intentionally). The main character, Arilee, is sweet and strong. She's the glue that's keeping her family together. She has so much responsibility put on her at such a young age. Her brother isn't much help as he's checked out emotionally from his kids, and his wife is in an asylum.

We also get to know Adam who is a bit younger than dear Arilee. While he may be younger, he's grown into a responsible young man who is always ready to step up to the plate. He ends up helping Arilee and her brother renovate their house. While he's at it, he shows his love for Arilee in many different ways.

There are lots of twists and turns, one of which I fully expect to see more of in future stories! Davis finally begins to take stock in his life, as brother to Arilee, but also as father to his two children. While the events that happen aren't easy, they have a profound impact on him. Lots of harrowing moments to bring him to his "come to Jesus" experience.

The faith in this story is beautiful, while dealing with being hurt by the church. I appreciate that the author tackled such a difficult topic. Also, the topics of forgiveness, healing, and restoration are sweetly woven into the story. I truly can't wait for book two!

About the Author:

For history tidbits, deleted scenes, and more "extras" as well as information about upcoming releases, visit jenniferqhunt.com or follow Jennifer on Facebook at Jennifer Q. Hunt, Author or Instagram @jennifer.q.hunt.author.

A lifelong storyteller, Jennifer has worked as a writer of both fiction and nonfiction, as well as an editor and ghostwriter. She has over twenty-five years of ministry writing experience for churches, pastors, and Christian ministries. 

Jennifer writes fiction with faith and purpose. Her Sorrow and Song trilogy shows multi-generations as they wrestle with their place in history and following the Lord through challenging circumstances. 

Back in north Georgia after several years away, Jennifer is a happy wife to Christopher and homeschool mother to four elementary-aged children.