Life in a small town has numerous advantages but the challenges of difficult times can set neighbor against neighbor. A drought in the mid-1950s in Wise, West Virginia affects the community in a mighty way. Suspicions become judgments and ordinary people become enemies. Perla is an unwed mother whose aunt and uncle provide her and her child a loving home. Casewell Phillips is a woodworking bachelor who has felt little love from his father but lives the life of a faith-filled man. Unfortunately the majority of the community are suspicious gossips unable to overcome their propensity to point fingers.

This debut novel is written with a great deal of insight into the human condition. Characters are defined and believable, illustrating the shortcomings in all of us. In difficult times the worst in people is exposed, as well as the best in others. As Perla cooks for a starving community she is suspected of being a witch because her penchant for cooking ultimately feeds many with little provisions. Others see it as a miracle. Casewell is scorned for the time he spends assisting Perla, but a man of faith doesn't judge others. The pastor of the local church preaches hellfire and brimstone as he points out the sins of his congregation. Ultimately trust is destroyed.

The author has a great talent for depicting people where they truly live, some hateful, suspicious and quick to pass judgment, and others with open hearts and minds, accepting of others no matter the circumstances. Faith is a strong theme running throughout this story. Descriptive elements are strong and lead the reader to envision the setting in detail. I think that this author has a brilliant career in the making, and I highly recommend this debut novel. It's not a book that I read in one night but I enjoyed the book very much. I'm hopeful there will be a sequel.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from The Book Club Network's Club For Readers Only program in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.