The Jake Smith Ranch Series (four novels and three short story books)

by Sherry Mckreowen
(Muskegon, Michigan)

Having had the chance to read the short stories AND all of the Jake Smith Ranch Series novels (from manuscript form):



This is a truly unique story about dealing with the aftermath of a life-altering experience. The main character, Jake, is left with a series of hurdles to overcome while enveloped in the emotional turmoil that accompanies his new circumstances.



He has lost his tongue (and speaking is near impossible) and all due to a deceitful act concerning a bull accident against his buddy, by another man. His bond with his twin sister is most impressive, as she guides him back into the world, in a quest for him to once again be himself, by the grace of God.



The relationships in his life, both existing, and new, show how God can work through lovingly supportive people to bring hope and healing in the lives of others. In this case, head injury, and seizures, as well. All four novels show a differnt aspect of his challenges and how he progresses, marries, and refaces his birth town and childhood buddies.



The author brings an engagingly informed perspective about something, from which, we must not turn away. The story has universality, in that, although most of us rarely deal with such extreme circumstances as portrayed in this book, each of us deal with things in our lives that make life challenging.



The reader will be blessed by the depth of the characters and how each challenge is met with compassion and courage by Jake and his family and friends working together. God is always present behind the scenes moving them to victory.



Reviewed by teacher, Sherry Mckeowen, Michigan