The Homecoming of Samuel Lake by Jenny Wingfield is a good story about three families. Tragedy hits when Swan's grandfather commits suicide and her father, Samuel Lake, loses his church. Samuel Lake is a preacher with a wife, a daughter named Swan and two boys. He lost his church so moved his family to live with his wife's parents in Arkansas. The preacher's kids meet a boy named Blade who is abused by his father who is their neighbor. Swan determines to help Blade hide from his father. The author does a good job of story telling about good and evil using three families--the Lakes/Moses and Ballengers. Through the story, the little girl and father both pray for miracles, trusting God for a good outcome.
Here's a little teaser for you:
I know you're probably afraid of your daddy. I'm afraid of him, myself, and I only saw him once. So why don't I have my daddy talk to your daddy? My daddy's a preacher. He talks people into changing their ways all the time. (pg. 57)
This book held my attention because there is the story about the kids trying to protect Blade, the family dynamics, the faith angle and the murder. This was an interesting read with lots of characters that I liked.
(Karen's review: My rating: 4 of 5 stars)
(Read on Kindle for free through library.)
Have you read this one? What did you think of it?