PAULA'S REVIEW:
This was a hard story to read because it dealt with emotional abuse by a pastor who was a husband.
I really felt for Wendi as she tried to please Rod and take care of her two children. The descriptions of a narcissist was very real. I liked that Wendi sought help from a counselor but some of her actions made me want to tell her that she was going about things the wrong way.
I like Garrett and how he came from a difficult relationship but was handling it well. You could see that he was maturing as a Christian. I liked his compassion toward the kids Julia and Christopher. The children were portrayed very well. You could tell their vulnerability and how they were torn in their emotions between their mom and dad.
I think it was difficult to read because I could relate since I have seen this behavior in the past. But the story presented a God-honoring solution and showed healing and spiritual growth of the characters.
Realistically told story that might trigger anxiety in some people.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*4 stars a solid faith thread.
WINNIE'S REVIEW:
Talented author Laura DeNooyer has penned a powerful, riveting story of one woman's escape from years of emotional, spiritual, and psychological abuse by a narcissistic and manipulating pastor husband. What looks like a perfect marriage and family to everyone in the church turns out to be a facade. Although she tries to salvage her marriage, Wendi Burkham runs into obstacles on every hand when she finally takes her two children and leaves.
DeNooyer tackles this gritty and tough subject with compassion and grace and doesn't sugarcoat the hardships, emotional toll, and anguish that Wendi goes through to get to ultimate healing and peace. The story reminds me that not everything may be as it seems when we're looking from the outside, and we shouldn't judge people without knowing the whole story. While not an easy book to read, it is thought-provoking and enlightening. I recommend it to those who enjoy compelling, absorbing Christian women's fiction.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
BackCover Blurb:
Not all abuse leaves bruises. Not all prisons have bars.
Wendi Burkham lives in an emotional prison she unwittingly walked into. Nobody understands, and her captor holds the keys.
Married to a respected pastor, Wendi lives a life others admire--with two children and a home that reflects faith, stability, and love. But behind closed doors, Wendi is trapped in a cycle of control, manipulation, and emotional abuse no one else can see--and no one would believe.
How do you escape when no one thinks you need to?For sixteen years, she has stayed silent. Stayed faithful. Stayed afraid. Until one night forces her to choose between the life she has built . . . and the truth she can no longer ignore.
Her husband's warning echoes: "Planting wind only reaps a harvest of tornadoes."
But what if the storm is the only way out?
This powerful novel exposes the reality of emotional abuse—and the courage it takes to break free. Readers who enjoy thoughtful fiction with emotional depth will appreciate this novel in the vein of Amanda Cox, Katie Powner, Susie Finkbeiner, and Erin Bartels.
Perfect for readers who love:
Emotionally powerful women’s fiction
Stories of resilience and personal transformation
Complex faith journeys
Portrayals of real-life relationship struggles
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