VISTA, CA (ANS) -- The River by Michael Neale tells the story of Gabriel Clarke, haunted since early childhood by the memory of a tragedy no child should have to witness—a misfortune that leaves him fragile and broken.

Book cover

Gabriel’s life on a farm with his mother and an endearing older couple offers plenty of distractions for a young boy. But Gabriel’s deep sadness about what he witnessed and what he lost quenches his joy; life is a struggle and he is unable embrace all it has to offer.

But Gabriel’s story is not over. He was made for a higher purpose. He was made for The River. And only when he returns to The River—something brought about through circumstances beyond his own planning—does he face the truth.

The River forces Gabriel to overcome his fears, to face his past, and to discover the unpleasant details about what really happened on that dismal day when he was five-years-old. The River changes his life. But it also means he has to change his if he is to fully enjoy the freedom and joy The River offers him. He must forgive.

The River brings healing and redemption. Gabriel is finally home.

The River, although published by Thomas Nelson, is not an overtly Christian story but it is a safe wholesome and inspiring read for adults young and old alike.

Michael Neale is an award winning Christian songwriter, especially known for the song, Your Great Name. www.michaelneale.com/your-great-name

The River is Michael’s first novel and can be found in most Christian bookstores.

This review also appears in The San Diego Christian Perspectives Examiner.

Janey DeMeo is founder and director of Orphans First -- a nonprofit organization helping suffering children around the world. She is also an author and speaker. Her husband, Louis, is a church-planter, mentor and pastor. They were formerly missionaries to France for 22 years and also worked in developing countries. They are now based in Southern California where they continue their ministry mentoring people to walk closer to Jesus. They both taught at the Calvary Chapel Bible College. For more information, please check out:
www.orphansfirst.org
www.JaneyDeMeo.com
www.LouisDeMeo.com 
www.twitter.com/JaneyDeMeo
http://janey-demeo.blogspot.com