BOOK REVIEW:  The Cross She Bears 

 

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by: Vickie McDonough

Dancing Word Reviewer

 

Title: The Cross She Bears

Author: Tina E. Pinson
Publisher: Writer's Showcase
ISBN: 0-595-21035-X

Genre: Inspirational/Historical/Fiction

Crazy Joe is Willow Creek's enigmatic hermit. Though he's never spoken a word to anyone, the small miner is the one person the town calls when someone is sick or injured. Five years ago, he ambled into town leading the world's ugliest mule. No one knows where he came from or where he lives now.

Joe longs to have friends but he can't risk getting close to anybody. He has too many secrets, and if those secrets got out, they could mean his death. So he remains distant and silent, and he lives his lonely life, giving aid to all who have need but receiving little in return.

When Dr. Harrison Caldwell comes to town, he discovers the town folk don't trust him or need him--they have Joe. As he strives to make friends and set up a practice, Harrison comes to realize that Joe is the neediest of all. He determines to become Joe's friend, no matter what. But when Harrison discovers Joe's scandalous secret, he reels from the shock and wonders if they can ever truly be friends.

It seems everyone in Willow Creek has their own little secret and their own cross to bear. The secondary characters drive this book as much as the main ones. Naomi Lawson's spoiled, self-centered character wants to be the center of attention and she'll do anything to get her way. Poor Harrison is constantly running the other way in his efforts to not be tempted by the beautiful, married woman's enticing wiles.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. A story of running away, treachery and God's awesome hand of protection and healing make The Cross She Bears a fascinating read. I promise there are several romances in this story for you die-hard romance readers, but to say more would give away too much.

I did have a little trouble in the beginning getting into this story, but once I was hooked, I couldn't put the book down. Tina Pinson has an incredible ability to weave a mystery into the story without giving away so much that you can figure out the ending. Joe's secret whopped me upside the head?never saw it coming. We are sure to hear more from this awesome author.