SAVED BY GRACE by Amy A. Corron

Adam Pearson is on his way home after ten long years in prison. He's not sure returning to his hometown is the best idea but he would like the opportunity to show his mother, and the town, that God really can change a person; even someone like him. Dr. Grace Ellerton has just earned her doctorate in psychology when her best friend, Jillian, suggests they take an adventurous vacation. While traveling, they run across Adam walking along the road and ask if he'd like a ride. He reluctantly accepts, and they take him home. Jillian and Grace decide to stay in the area for the summer and rent a cottage. That's where Grace learns about the ranch that wants to help troubled kids. They need a psychologist and Grace realizes that God brought her here. Adam is trying hard to keep his foot on the narrow path and 'let his light shine' but it isn't long before trouble arises that puts Adam under suspicion. Grace wants to believe in Adam's innocence but she has trust issues. Adam warns Grace that one of the boys she's trying to help is not safe and admonishes her to be cautious. Can Adam protect Grace? Can Grace keep Adam from going to prison again? Most importantly, can they learn to trust God through even their darkest moments?

WOW! What a powerful story! I could not put it down. I was so happy to see this author writing again and when I realized this was part of the Northwoods Adventures Series, I knew I had to read it right away. Adam Pearson is a teen you meet in book one (Emma's Promise) of the series. He's one that you strongly dislike because of what he does to Emma. Can God really change a cold, black, angry heart? We easily say that He can, but do we really believe it? How do we then accept the return of that person into our midst? That's really what 'Saved by Grace' explores. I thought the author did a fantastic job of bringing to light all the feelings and emotions that would surround that type of situation, from both Adam's perspective as well as those around him. Emma has been a favorite character of mine and in this story she shines bright once again; living out what she says she believes. We should all strive to be like Emma. Grace was an honest and genuine person; you could see why Adam was drawn to her. I have to say, one character I was really disappointed in was Nate Sweeney, a local police officer. You also meet him in Emma's Promise and he appears throughout the series. I always liked Nate but here I found him to be harsh and quick to judge, especially for someone who says he's a Christian. Then again, can't we also be that way? If you're looking for a great story with living, breathing characters and a powerful message of hope, then I highly recommend Saved by Grace. Actually, I recommend the whole series (Emma's Promise, Penny from Heaven, Help Me, Rhonda, Winning Becca and Saved by Grace). This author has an easy writing style that will draw you into the story and hold you there until the very end. Great job Amy!!!

For more information on this book and other books by this author, I recommend you visit her website at https://amyacorron.wordpress.com/