Review of Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

Wow! I was surprised to learn that this author was only 26 years old when this book came out. Kudos to her for such an ambitious effort. The book was well researched and heart wrenching in some parts. Unfortunately, it took several chapters for me to fall into the rhythm of her story-telling style. At first it felt dis-jointed and I kept having to go back to the family tree at the beginning of the book, to clarify how the current chapter connected to the previous chapter. I have to admit I expected the paths of the two lineages to have a much wider divide in their experiences than they did. But I thought the characters would connect sooner. As it was, both lines endured suffering. I found myself on an emotional rollercoaster, feeling the depths of their despair and disappointments. I was hoping against hope for reconciliation and restoration for the characters. There was a sense of resilience among the characters that resonated throughout the book. As I like to say, “When a book causes the reader to experience emotional reactions; anger, sadness, joy, relief, etc. I believe the writer has done their job well.” And Yaa Gyasi did that!

Darlene Pryor, the author

My breast cancer experience is a small part of my journey

Earlier this month,Mo Nix invited us to share our breast cancer stories to our group, Mentally Empowered. Here's mine:
As a mother of five sons it wasn't always easy to find time to take care of myself. All my sick time was used for my son's mishaps and childhood ills. Three of them had asthma coupled with allergies. All of them were active daredevils.
I had my first mammogram in 1995 when I returned for my six month visit after my twins were born. My gynecologist in Ct had the machine on site. I didn't have another until they were 16 yrs old, almost 17.
My gynecologist in Alabama would give me a referral each time I went in for my exam. It was enough of a hassle to make it to that appointment. They wanted me to call the hospital, make another appointment, and take off work again! Never happened. Each time I would take the referral form, stuff it in my purse or a notebook, with every intention of calling later, and forget about it. Out of site out of mind, right. Besides breast cancer was something that happened to other people in other families.
Then in Oct. 2010, that insidious disease crept into my own family. The Sunday edition of the Birmingham News (October 3, I believe) was the pink edition. There were copies in the break room at work. I read through all the survivor stories. That night at home I went online and read more stories shared by survivors. Then my son called me to talk about relatives on his father's side who'd succumbed to cancer. He asked me if he was going to get Cancer. I assured him that just because they had had it, didn't mean he would. I believed that.
It was Monday night (Oct 4). I would leave my house at 2:00-ish to drive to Alabaster from Jacksonville for my 5:00 shift. When I came out of my bathroom after taking my shower, the light was off in my bedroom. I walked across the room in the dark to turn on the light. Just as I reached out to flip the switch, I stepped on the plug hanging from the Iron I had left on my filing cabinet. I quickly jerked my foot up, but unfortunately I was in midstride and had already lifted the other foot. I collapsed awkwardly to the floor, hitting my right breast on the corner of the filing cabinet. I cried out, grabbed my breast and stumbled over to the bed. Benjamin, one of the twins, ran up to my door "Are you alright in there?"
"Yes"
"What happened?"
"None of your business!"
Meanwhile. I dialed my sister's number. "Hello"
"I'm going to have a hematoma on my breast"
"Oh, well. I'm talking to husband right now. I'll call you back later."
It's wasn't that short but it seemed like it. I laid in the bed with my hand across my chest feeling the knot that had already formed, thinking 'what if there was already something there?' I had heard women say that bruises could turn to cancer. I didn't believe that, but for some reason I did think it was possible that my injury could have brought something to the surface that was already there. I didn't tell my husband (ex) about it that night because I didn't quite know how to explain how I hit the corner of that filing cabinet with my breast. I kept envisioning Madea as she tried to understand how her niece hit her eye on the kitchen cabinet door.
The next night as we lay in bed, I placed my ex’s hand on my breast to feel the newly discovered knot. He said, “That’s been there.” After my initial shock to learn that he had felt a lump in my breast and said nothing, I realized I needed to have this thing checked out. That Friday, (Oct. 8). I went to Dr. K, in Anniston. He was very concerned and referred me to rmc for a mammogram. I went in on Wed. (Oct. 13) and had my first mammogram in 16 years or so. After the scan the very bubbly technician sent me to xray, just to be sure. The xray tech didn’t say anything to me, but I knew something was wrong. I felt like she was uncomfortable. She informed me that my doctor would call me with the results. I went home and took a nap. That evening as I was preparing to go to my grad school class I received a call from my doctor’s office that they wanted me to come in for the results. I let my ex know that I had to go do my presentation and then I would need him to take me to the doctor’s ofc.
I arrived on campus early and went to my professor’s ofc to ask if I could give my presentation first and leave. Before I said anything, he asked, “Are you okay, you look sick?” I said I was tired and stressed and it had been a long day. Then I explained that I needed to leave early to go get my mammogram results.
Once we arrived at the doctor’s ofc he informed us that the scans were abnormal and possibly cancerous. He wanted me to have a biopsy as soon as possible. He went to take care of the paperwork. That was when my ex-husband decided to question how, exactly, I had managed to hit my breast on the corner of the filing cabinet that was only 2 ½ ft. high. He was trying to process how this freak accident could end up as a possible cancer diagnosis. I was too. Although I'd had more time to consider the possibility, I was still dealing with it. So, after repeatedly answering the same questions, I threw the ball in Dr. K’s court when he returned. I asked Dr. K to explain to him how this injury led to the discovery of possible breast cancer. Dr. K told him it didn’t really matter how I had sustained the injury, we were looking at a possible cancer diagnosis and we needed to focus on that.
We went to the Cancer Treatment Center that next Wednesday (Oct. 20) for a consult. Dr. S. decided to do a needle biopsy at that time. It was a quick procedure resulting in some soreness. The next day I went back to work. Friday evening, after work, we went back to Dr. K for the results. He confirmed that yes, I did indeed have breast cancer. As we left the ofc, I called my daddy and he called his mother.
My daddy basically told me not to go borrowing trouble. He reminded me that cancer is not the automatic death sentence that it once was. He advised me not to dwell on it or let my imagination run wild. Just take every step as it comes and follow my doctor’s instructions. Another great piece of advice my father gave me. When I considered running to UAB for treatment, he reminded me that since UAB was a teaching hospital, even if I had a top level, experienced doctor, I’d be more likely to actually be treated by inexperienced doctors. If I stuck with the Cancer Treatment Center, which ever doctor I chose would be the one who actually treated me. All very true for the most part.
So I finally had the answer I had feared for nearly three weeks. Without telling them what was going on, I had spoken with family members about what they would do if my kids were to ever lose their mother. On that long drive in to work I would pray to God, begging him to allow me to see all of my sons grow up to be the men he designed them to be. The enemy tried to tell me God was going to move me out of the way so someone else could do a better job. One of those mornings I received a peaceful assurance that everything would be alright. That cancer would not win. One by one, I shared my situation with the rest of my family. I literally felt the covering of their prayers. I told my sons on Halloween night. Bad choice on my part. But I was to begin chemo, the next week and I didn’t know how it was going to affect me. First they were upset that I had curtailed their plans to have a family meeting, then they were ashamed that they were upset. Very bad timing on my part. We got through it though.I have to give credit to the ex for his input that night
I had triple negative breast cancer. No family history of breast cancer. Cancer, but not breast cancer. I went through my treatments, chemo, surgery, and then radiation. In the midst of all that, I received my master’s degree in Public Administration and I started working as an Assistant Manager at Walmart. I received my last treatment shortly after I completed my management training. When I meet other women who receive this diagnosis, I am quick to share the great advice I received from my daddy, who is also a survivor. And life continues to go on.

from my son's Facebook page:  Benjamin Pryor June 5, 2016 · Allowed on timeline So there's this thought that crossed my mind: it doesn't really come really often, which I am SOO glad that it doesn't to be real with you all, but to today it just hit me. So first, take a look at this picture... A real long look. Now let's focus on the woman in the picture. Not many people that I associate myself with is really aware of this because I don't like to brag about it, but there was a moment (just a moment) in our lives where we thought this picture would be impossible. At least, for me, there was a time. Don't know how my other brothers took it. Anyways, back in the dramatic years of highschool, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. We didn't really make it easy for her to tell us, but she got the message across and suddenly I realized then that I'm not the only one here fighting the good fight, there are others who suffer a lot more. I see it on television a lot, because those news channel love to show us negative things, but it really didn't hit home until, well, it really hit home. My own mother was livin on a prayer (sing it if you want to), but one thing I realized is that she did not live like a patient. She did not go into a corner saying "Woe is Me." She did quite the opposite. She cut her hair with a smile (I have the pictures) Tried on a lot of weaves and became a model who demanded pictures and more pictures. It was serious, no doubt, but my mother never stopped living by example for us even when she really deserved a pity party. She probably would've got mad anyways.... Since finding out she had cancer, she graduated from JSU, ran a bunch of 5ks, loss weight and gain weight and loss weight again (in her opinion, I think she just loss weight), supported each of her kids in their individual endeavors, broke her ankle (my bad), recovered and started running again, worked ridiculous hours at Wal-mart, moved to California, started her own book (if you want more info on that, let me know) and flew back to Alabama to check on her family. I thank God for this blessing he has given this family. We aren't perfect, we have problems, but we get through them. My mom has, so it's pretty much my job to be better as her son. — with Darlene Pryor and Brian Pryor. 

Review of Forty Acres, by Dwayne Alexander Smith

When a book causes the reader to experience emotional reactions, anger, sadness, joy, relief, etc. I believe the writer has done their job well. The author did an excellent job of crafting a story that swept me along on an emotional roller coaster. This is the type of book that makes the reader squirm, and not in a good way. which is probably the reason for some of the low reviews. I read the book with a book club, but I could not wait. I read ahead and finished. The topic is a little uncomfortable. Nevertheless, I could see Forty Acres as a movie, but I am not sure if mainstream Hollywood would bite. Great job, Mr. Smith! I enjoyed this book and I keep telling others about it.
Darlene Pryor, author of Dreams Of Tamar

This Just in! What a pleasant birthday surprise.

‎Benjamin Pryor‎ to Darlene Pryor The Author

August 1 at 3:47pm · 

ian story that focuses on rejection, redemption, and restoration. Let me tell you people, even though I feel women would get the most out of this story, I really feel there is a separate story in there for us men and what a true gentleman looks like. I mostly identified with Derek in the story as a man most of us start out as and see the protaganist's husband, James, as the kind of man we all should try to be. The real meat of the story starts around chapter 5 and it is highly suggested you read the prologue (because if you're like me, you skip any part of the book that does not have a chapter number above it). There is great character development for the main group and a lot of description that throws you into a story that takes place in a pre-cookout Jacksonville. Clarification: early Jacksonville when we had a movie gallery and blockbuster if any of you remember those days. Anyways, I don't want to spoil it all and the message it really delivers, so go check it out and read my mother's story!

Review of Piercing the Darkness

Wow! Just wow! I have not been so caught up in a book in a very long time. I can't believe this book has been out since the mid-eighties and I am just now reading it.

Such an eye opener! Frank Peretti effectively illustrates the very real spiritual warfare that is going on all around us. People need this reminder that "those who are for us are greater than those against us" and "the effectual fervent prayers of the righteous availeth much."

Why hasn't Piercing The Darkness been made into a movie yet? It is time. 

Darlene Pryor

Radio Interview on 'The Broad Perspective' with Vivan Komori and Laura Feliz

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Review of Icing

Such a charming story. Pleasantly reminiscent of a Rosemond Du Jarden book. I loved Pam and Penny as a teenager and Denie and her friends are just as engaging. Icing is a sweet and wholesome romance. Denie's constant introspection is reflective of the many young women who have been led to believe by today's media that they are an anomaly. It is great to read about a modern woman who holds to her Christian values. Great story! I highly recommend this book to the YA reader.

Darlene Pryor

Review of Victory Over Cancer

Thank you Joseph Marx, for allowing me to join you on your journey as you share your story! As a cancer survivor, I am more than happy to sing the praises of this book. Victory over Cancer is an enlightening and encouraging look into the author's battle, and ultimate victory, over this insidious disease; cancer. Mr. Marx shares invaluable insight into how our diets are such an important factor in our physical well-being. In this book you will also find tips to assist you in maintaining spiritual and emotional balance in your life, both before and after diagnosis. This book will serve as a great tool for anyone who is at risk for contracting cancer (meaning everyone). Victory Over Cancer provides dietary tips and holistic alternative treatments along with preventive methods that can be incorporated with traditional treatment. The great thing is that you do not have to take the author's word for it. He provides excellent references. For the diligent individual who insists on doing their own research, Mr. Marx points you in the direction of valuable information. Mr. Marx's writing style is easy and casual. He shares his story with an openness that encourages the reader to believe that they too can be victorious over cancer. The scientific information is laid out in an unintimidating manner that the average layman can understand. I am happy I found this little gem and I will recommend it to my family and friends. Because I am a cancer survivor and I know the importance of diet and exercise, coupled with spiritual and emotional stability, after diagnosis, I am giving this book five stars and recommending it as a must read to all cancer patients and those who love them.

Darlene Pryor

Never without Hope

Definitely edgy Christian fiction. To be frank, I had a difficult time connecting with the main character when she was in the midst of her sin. I just didn’t like it. Even so, the writer did an excellent job of showcasing her inner turmoil as she struggled against temptation. I believe an author has done their job when the reader gets angry about the story line. Either they don’t like a character, they don’t like what is happening to the character, or they don’t like what the character is doing. This means the reader is invested in the character, and that’s a good thing.

Once things spiraled out of control, I became enthralled with the character’s journey to redemption and restoration. Never without Hope is a realistic portrait of God’s imperfect people, made perfect in His love. This story is relatable, uplifting, and encouraging. I am excited to find Christian fiction filled with realistic characters with real world problems. I would recognize this book to anyone looking for good fiction.

Darlene Pryor

Book Review of Wings Of Eagles

Wings Of Eagles 

What a pleasant surprise. Wings Of Eagles is a great selection for the young adult/teen reader. I was drawn in by the main character, so much so, that I found myself crying when she shared her story. I love stories that chronicle the Christian walk of believers at all stages in their faith. With a little polish, I believe this book would be utilized to entertain and encourage a massive audience. I look forward to reading the next segment.

Darlene Pryor

Book Review of Dreams Of Tamar

I am humbled and grateful to share this review with you. Dreams Of Tamar will be available for free on Amazon Kindle January 15-January 22. Enjoy this story of military brats who were able to sustain the bonds of friendship that carried across oceans from a military base in Germany to a small town in Alabama. All feedback is welcome.
Readers Favorite Book Review

Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite Dreams of Tamar: A Tale of Rejection, Redemption, Restoration, and Faith Volume 1 by Darlene Pryor is listed as Christian fiction, a story that will appeal to women who have suffered a lot because of love, one with a promise of hope. A woman with twins meets and falls in love with a man and she almost believes her life is complete, but events that follow will try her spirits and drive her to the edge of insanity. She suffers from lucid dreams and has a lot of challenges to face, plus her marriage is under serious threat, notwithstanding the fact that she is pregnant again. A book that is driven by Christian values and principles, filled with hope and energy, readers who are into romance will enjoy it.  Readers will enjoy Diedra as a character, and her determination to create meaning from her painful, trying experiences is something that will come to others as a powerful call to take responsibility for the love they have received. Other characters in the story are well-imagined and the role they play is nothing but fitting; they fit naturally into the tapestry and contribute to the huge conflict. One of the things I enjoyed is how the author skillfully weaves the Christian theme of redemption into the story, without coming across as preachy. The writing is excellent and soothing. Darlene Pryor is a great storyteller and she knows how to mirror the psychology of her characters, penetrating their raging emotions without telling much. Readers will find themselves in the story. It’s so real; it’s so convincing one feels like they are part of it. Dreams of Tamar is a spiritual romance with a big lesson for anyone in love.

From my Facebook memories, 2013

We keep asking God for a sign to let us know He hears our prayers or a sign to show us His answer. We keep looking for reassurance when He has already given it to us. Jesus says with the faith of a mustard seed we can move mountains. Our Father cares for the flowers in the fields. How much more does He care for us and our needs. Jesus told Thomas "Because you have seen me, now you believe, blessed are they that have not seen and yet believe."
For we walk by faith not sight. Regardless of the lies of the enemy, God is in control and He is working it out for our good. Trust in Him and His word.
Darlene Pryor

What are you reading?

Read something that inspires and encourages you!

October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

It is the first day of October. The beginning of a very active month in my circle. Football season is in full swing. Virtually everyone in Alabama has picked a side.  We will celebrate the coming of my first grandson. My best friend is getting married.  A very busy month.

October is Breast Cancer awareness month. Many of us will take this time to acknowledge and commemorate those who have fought and are still fighting the insidious disease; breast cancer.

Many of you will gather along with countless others to “Race For The Cure” at numerous fundraising walk/runs around the country. I am a survivor and this means a lot to me on a very personal level. Not only is October Breast Cancer Awareness month, but I was diagnosed with breast cancer in October, 2010. It has been six years since diagnosis and five years since I completed treatment. Something to shout about, I’d say.

As a survivor, I feel I have a responsibility to speak out and remind others that this disease can attack anyone. Cancer does not discriminate. I also want my presence to serve as a reminder that a cancer diagnosis is no longer an automatic death sentence. We are still fighting for a cure through research and education.

This year I have decided that I will donate a portion of the profits from all sales of Dreams Of Tamar during October, to breast cancer research/awareness.

If you make your purchase during October, your purchase will help increase breast cancer awareness. If you would like to join in our efforts to support breast cancer research/awareness, you can purchase a copy of Dreams Of Tamar online at amazon.com books or at the createspace estore. We are currently enabling our website, palmarborpress.com to take online orders for signed copies of this insightful novel.

Darlene

Dreams Of Tamar on sale now!

Follow Diedra as she struggles with marriage, motherhood, and friendship on a journey that will teach her about God’s redeeming love and his promise to fulfill her wildest dreams.
Available now at the Createspace estore for $12.99. Coming to Amazon.com and Kindle Direct as early as October 5, 2016

Createspace estore

or
Dreams Of Tamar

Book review: The Shack, by Wm Paul Young

The Shack, by Wm Paul Young, is the story of the spiritual journey of Mackenzie Allen Phillips. Mack grew up in a troubled household, the son of an alcoholic and abusive father who possessed standing in their church. One day, in the aftermath of a particularly brutal beating, Mack laced every bottle of liquor on the family property with poison and he walked away from his family, never to return.

After several years of leading a transient lifestyle, which included a stint at a seminary, Mack settles down to marry the beautiful Nan. They raise five children, including the inquisitive Missy.  Mack takes his three younger children on an end of summer camping trip while Nan is away on business. The last morning of their stay at the campsite, tragedy strikes. His family is devastated and tries desperately to recover.

Three years later, during a snow storm, Mack finds a mysterious note in his mailbox inviting him back to the shack. He returns to the site of his life's greatest horror and has a fantastic encounter that changes his life.

I loved this book? After reading this story I felt like I really wanted to know more about the author and his own spiritual journey. I have to say that the forward was a bit misleading, but it helped to draw me into the story. It was thought provoking and insightful. I truly enjoyed reading this story and I highly recommend this book.

Darlene Pryor

Palmarborpress book reviews

What Defines You?

You are not defined by what has happened to you in your life. 

What defines you is how you respond to what happens to you

You are a survivor!

You are an over comer!

You are victorious!

Another Excerpt From My Upcoming Novel, Dreams Of Tamar

Chapter 6

The restaurant had a comfortable elegance. It offered a quiet atmosphere and it was the perfect place to relax and absorb a startling revelation such as they had received. As soon as the ladies were seated their waiter, a young college student, approached their table with water glasses, complementary brŏtchen, and menus.

As he filled their glasses he asked Brea how she was enjoying the weather and had she had an opportunity to dine at the Old Farmhouse before? Was she originally from Jacksonville or was she here to attend the university? Brea smiled politely and replied that she loved the weather, and the Old Farmhouse was her favorite restaurant. She’d lived in Jacksonville for many years now, and had even attended high school there, but she’d graduated from UCONN many years ago.

He looked at Brea appreciatively and said, “I’m sure it couldn’t have been too many years ago.”

Diedra and Cassandra smiled across the table at each other and Diedra took a sip from her glass mumbling “No he isn’t trying to flirt,” as the exchange took place.

The waiter, who looked to be no more than 19, was not put off one bit. He smiled at Brea with a full set of beautiful white teeth and said. “Well, I’ve always been a Husky fan. I’d love to get with you sometime and share insights on Husky-mania and its impact on the basketball fans of today.”

At that Diedra began to cough uncontrollably. Cassandra jumped up and hurriedly moved around the table to assist her as she tried to regain her composure. Cassandra patted Diedra’s back vigorously as she tried unsuccessfully to stifle her own laughter. Brea shot them a sharp glance before she responded to the young waiter.

“I’m extremely flattered, um Michael, is it?” she asked, reading his name-tag. “But frankly, I find the whole idea of Husky-mania having any visibly lasting effect on even a minute portion of society to be grossly overstated. Now if you’d really like to get together and discuss any relevant social issues, preferably those pertinent to us here in Alabama, I’d be more than happy to get together with you and any other students who’d like to hold an open forum. That’s something we did regularly back when I was in college… several years ago.” She looked pointedly at him. “We found it to be both an enlightening and entertaining experience that proved to be even more beneficial when we were able to include faculty members.” She turned to Diedra and asked “Don’t you agree Mrs. Davis?”

Diedra shook her head in agreement, coughed once more, and then she and Cassandra completely fell apart. They laughed so hard that they both nearly fell over onto the floor.  They were both brought to tears. Cassandra looked at the waiter and tried to pull herself together. She wiped her eyes and sat up straight in her chair saying, “Don’t mind us. It’s been a terribly long day. Very stressful, and I don’t even know why I’m laughing. She smiled at Diedra and tried to continue, but just shrugged her shoulders and took a long swig from her glass of water. She held her glass out to Michael and sheepishly said, “More water please.”

Brea rested an elbow on the table and put her fist to her mouth as she bit down on her lower lip in an attempt to cover her own smile.  Then she smiled at her friends and turned to Michael. “Please forgive my friends,” she said as lightly as she was able. “It really has been a stressful day. If you’ll give us a moment, we’ll be ready to order shortly.”

With that, the young man excused himself and the three ladies watched him walk across the room.

“I see you’ve still got it, Brea!”  Cassandra said as she leaned over and watched Michael disappear behind the swinging doors that led to the kitchen. Brea smiled coyly and asked. “What are you talking about Cassie?”

“She’s talking about the way you can’t go anywhere without someone hitting on you. I swear Brea! You probably couldn’t even walk through a monastery without someone slipping you their phone number.”

Diedra laughed and Cassandra joined in with, “At least in that instance, odds are, they’d probably be legal.  Junior over there can’t be a day over 18, if that. Brea, they seem to get younger and younger.”

“Oh Cassie, don’t hate!” replied Brea. “All he did was pour us water, but you have to admit the boy is fine.”

“Sure he is, in a juvenile sort of way,” said Cassandra.

Diedra had to disagree. “Please! Girl, he is a young man, but the operative word here is man!” She said to Cassandra. “Do you think he was wearing contacts? A dark skinned man with green eyes! Ooh!” and then to Brea she said. “And no point in denying it, I saw the way you looked at him. You’ll see him again.”

“Sure I will,” said Brea. “He’ll be back to get our orders shortly.”

“Whatever.  You don’t have to front for us. We know you like your men young.”  Diedra and Cassandra both knew that Brea didn’t really center her attention on one particular age bracket when it came to her social life, but she seemed to especially enjoy the company of younger men.  She didn’t deny that she liked younger men. She liked men in general. Beyond her friends Diedra, Cassandra, and Shar, she really didn’t seem to bond at all with women. She was single and she liked to socialize. And she had no shortage of ‘friends’.

Brea reached into the bread basket and selected one of the brŏtchen. She held the perfectly crusted roll in front of her and inhaled the enticing aroma that always flooded her senses with memories of Germany. She smiled across the room at Michael who was headed back toward their table, and spoke to her friends. “I don’t know about you two, but I’m hungry, so can you please let the man take our orders without anyone falling out of their chair into the middle of the floor?”

“Sure thing,” they both said in unison. The waiter came and took their orders and returned shortly with their food. They each had ordered the Wiener schnitzel and pom-fritz; breaded veal and French fries. Michael set the plates before them and asked if there was anything else he could get for them before he moved on. They all thanked him and turned their attention to their plates. The day’s events had stirred up healthy appetites among the three women. All three of them ate in silence and as they finished their meals they began to joke with each other.

Both Diedra and Cassandra swore that Michael had favored Brea’s plate with double portions of everything. They continued with more good-natured teasing about cradle-robbing and the like. Brea took it all in stride. By the time someone realized it was after 4:00, they decided it was time to go home. Diedra and Cassandra excused themselves to the lady’s room, and Brea stayed at the table to pick up the check.

Michael handed the bill to Brea and smiled flirtatiously at her. She returned his smile and asked him how old he was anyway. He stood over her and looked into her eyes in a way that communicated to her that he was definitely not some schoolboy with a crush. And just in case she didn’t get the message visually, he said “Oh I assure you that I am definitely legal. Even if the thoughts I’ve had since you walked in here may not have been. But if it will ease your mind at all, I am 25 years old and in my last year of grad school.”

Brea laughed, releasing a sigh of relief. She was glad to know that the thoughts she’d had ever since he approached their table earlier had not been focused on a minor. “Do you have any idea how old I am?” she asked even though she knew it wouldn’t matter. She handed him her credit card along with the bill.

“I’m quite sure you’re old enough,” he said before he headed toward the cash register with her payment.

She watched him walk halfway across the room and then dug into her purse for one of her calling cards with her phone number and email address already printed on it. When Michael returned to the table he returned her credit card and receipt and she handed him her business card folded inside a ten dollar bill. “It was a pleasure meeting you. My friends call me Brea,” she said observing his surprised expression as she got up to leave.

“Yes, and it was nice meeting you as well. Don’t you lose that receipt now.” He smiled and winked at her as he moved on to his next table. She put the receipt in her purse and smiled when she realized that Michael’s name and telephone number were boldly scrawled across the back.

“What’s that goofy grin about?” asked Cassandra as she and Diedra met her at the door.

“I guess I just look that way,” her smile broadened as she headed out into the afternoon air replacing her sunglasses.  The three women said goodbye as they got into the two cars. Cassandra promised to call Diedra that evening and drove off. Brea drove Diedra back to her home in Mecca Woods and went home to her townhouse on Francis Street. Diedra reflected on how blessed she was to have such caring friends.

When single mother of twins Diedra meets and falls in love with James, she assumes that “as long as you both shall live” will be the start of peace, contentment, and blissful motherhood.

Diedra has a full life that often intersects with the lives of three other women: Breanna, the free and flirtatious spirit; Cassandra, Diedra’s childhood friend; and Sharnell, an overachiever. And when Diedra’s brood grows to seven after the birth of triplets, she thinks that surely her saga is fully written.

But when unexpected obstacles suddenly pile on with no end in sight, Diedra must struggle to save her marriage, brave a frightening diagnosis, and untangle mysteriously lucid dreams whose meaning remains just out of reach—but which are increasingly worrisome in their urgency.

On top of it all—she’s pregnant again. 

Book Review: Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

Redeeming Love is a historical Christian love story set in the gold rush days of California. It  is a story that demonstrates God's redemptive love for all who will accept it.

 Angel is a brothel woman who has suffered heartache and abuse from the time she was a small child. She has been rejected by the people who were supposed to love and protect her. She has nothing. The only thing she has of her own is her name, which she keeps tucked away and protected from everyone. After all the abuse she has suffered, she does not believe she deserves to be happy.

Michael Hosea is a man who loves God and seeks to live his life according to His Word. When He meets Angel, sparks fly, not all of them good. The two struggle to find their way together. She is afraid to love and to receive love. Michael allows God to use him to show Angel His love.

I loved this story. It was gritty. It was emotional. and it was real. I believe it would make a great movie.

Redeeming Love is not a new book, but it is still available in book stores. If you have never read it, I suggest you do. You won't be disappointed.

Darlene Pryor