Trail of Tears: The Story of John Ross

by Anne Greene

One man fights overwhelming odds to survive and protect. Caught between the love of two beautiful women, which one will he choose? What if you are a twenty-year-old, about to attend college, and your whole world collapses? Your mother and sister are missing, and soldiers murder your father, burn your mansion, and take you prisoner. Trail of Tears relives one of the most heartrending chapters in American history as the US Government transports the self-governing, wealthy Cherokee nation from their ancestral homeland to relocate in hostile Indian Territory. The Georgia militia forces John Ross, with only a trickle of Indian blood flowing in his veins, to walk the thousand-mile Trail of Tears. After John protects a full-blood Indian girl from the lustful wagon master, the cruel soldier targets John for retribution—until John’s shoved too far. Bitter animosity explodes from a jealous Army Captain as John pushes and pulls his Conestoga wagon over mountain roads made muddy by rain and slippery by snow. Yet the persuasive voices of the preacher and his daughter have an impact. A new destiny awaits John at the end of the trail—if he survives. Four thousand Cherokee do not.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Romance, Christian Fiction, Inspirational

352 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 4, 2021

About the author

Anne Greene is an award winning author.

Reviews

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trail of Tears is a story fraught with danger, illness, and a march from the Cherokee homeland.
Even though there were lots of moments of suffering, pain, and death, there were also times of hope and inspiration when the Cherokee were saved and became Christians due to the efforts of a pastor and newly converted Christian, John Ross.

John Ross fought with feelings of revenge and hatred for being removed from his land. He dealt with great loss and mistreatment by the soldiers.

The historical aspects of the story came to life due to the descriptions written by the author and made me feel as though I was there watching. The ending wrapped up the story well and ended on a positive note. Can't wait to read the next one. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy and voluntarily choose to review it. All opinons are my own.

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

This historical fiction story is based on one of the most significant part of our history. The time where thousands of Cherokee Indians were forced to leave their land and walk 1,000 miles to start anew in a hostile environment. It is a part of history, like others, that should not be forgotten or erased. Immediately you can tell that the author has done and spent a lot of time on the research of this particular part of history and she has successfully intertwined history and fiction to create a wonderful story.

She has developed wonderful characters in which you get emotionally invested in and feel the pain and anguish that they are feeling during this period of time. If you enjoy historical fiction with a strong basis on actual historical facts then I definitely recommend this one. Not only will you experience history but there is also some adventure, romance and the most important the element of faith.



I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trail of Tears: The Story of John Ross in the first book in The Ross Family Saga by Anne Greene. This is one riveting story that will rip at your heartstrings with tears flowing. This is based on American history where the Cherokee nation is forced by the government to leave their homeland. The brutality, lack of supplies, loss, complete disrespect for the Cherokees was evident with their treatment. Thankfully there was a caring white missionary and a few others that did all they could to help the Cherokee people including sharing the scriptural salvation plan for them to find inner peace despite their hardships and losses. The story is filled with action, faith, romance and forgiveness among many. The survivors grew in faith and one of John Ross’s special verses was from Isaiah 40:31 along with the verses from the Psalms. I look forward to reading the next installment for The Ross Family Sage.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author without any obligation to write a review. I have expressed my own thoughts.

[Betti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perhaps the strength to endure comes as we reach out to help others.

Wow!! What an incredibly sad story of a time in the history of our country when the acts of government overthrew the rights of some in favor of others. Back in 1838, many of the Cherokee were well established members of their community, contributing to the good of all, just like their neighbors. Their land was stolen by the US government, their freedom taken away and then they were imprisoned in a stockade - why??

The white man can imprison my body, but not my spirit. The author takes us right into the fictitious life of John Ross, the grandson of Chief John R. Ross, who historically attempted to set a treaty with the government, to no avail. Tied up, beaten, whipped and eventually forced to march all the way from Georgia to Oklahoma, this is his story. This account of tears, is also one of courage in spite of suffering as well as one of learning the strength one can gain from the Lord.

This history has left an indelible mark on my heart - a story of lives, forever changed and for many, another precious grave marking the Trail of Tears. An ARC was received through Elk Lake Publishing and CelebrateLit. These impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trail of Tears: The Story of John Ross by Anne Greene is an emotional story that takes us back to a tragic time in America’s history. This captivating tale is well-written with developed characters. The author managed to combine fact and fiction into a fascinating historical tale. This is a fictional story that documents the removal of Cherokee from their lands and how they were forced to travel for months to their new land in what is now Oklahoma. I can tell that Anne Greene did her research for Trail of Tears. She weaved fact and fiction into one touching story. This is an expressive story that shows what the Native Americans endured on their travels. There is violence that will have you cringing (I did). I was shocked at what these proud people were made to endure. This is especially hard for me to read because of my Cherokee ancestry. The conditions were deplorable. Despite what they were going through, there was still hope. God was present and he used this deplorable time for his gain. God does work in miraculous ways. Trail of Tears is a heartbreaking, but inspiring story that will tugs at your heartstrings.

[Julie Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trail of Tears by Anne Greene
Starts out when John Ross is just a young man and living on the family estate. He and his parents and toddler sister Pris.
He was working in fields when he hears the commotion: the house is on fire and there's a lot of screaming and yelling. As he rushes to help his parents and sister get out he is captured by the men there to take over possession of the property.
He was not sure when he wakes up if they made it out alive. He recalls seeing his father standing at a window with fire all around him.
He journeys with many others who were captured to an area where they are bound together. There are guards surrounding them and only allowed out of the complex for a religious ceremony.
He is not a true believer but he gets baptized and wonders why God is making them all suffer. He knows of others in DC who are fighting for them to get their land back. They will all journey further to OK to join other Indian troops in one area of land.
Like understanding all the explicit descriptive details of the fight he believes in and the things he does for his family to make it easier for them.
Many along the way help him, Indian Rachel who helps his mother and Pris especially and helps him heal with her herbs when he is beaten.
Hate hearing the torture the guards put John through on the way west, driving rain, windy, mud up to your knees...
Love hearing of the relationships along the way and can't believe the way this story turns out.
Love the scriptures and how they pertain to the incidents going on around them.
Excerpt for the next book is enclosed at the end. Note from the author and her works are highlighted at the end.
Discussion questions are also enclosed.
SUPER read!
Received a review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.

[Cyndi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fictional story of true events brought to life through John Ross' and the Cherokee Nation's forced journey in 1838 to the Indian territory, which is now known as Oklahoma. This faith-filled story shows that all things work to the good for the glory of God.

[Gail Hollingsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true part of history written with part truth, part fiction made for an interesting read. I had known very little about the trail of tears, so this story was very eye-opening. The cruelty and disrespect for another human being was appalling and brought tears to my eyes. Racism in one form or another has always been in society from the beginning of time. This captivity as prisoners and the grueling journey by wagon train cost over four thousand lives of the Cherokee. To be driven off your own land by force and treated so horribly was unreal. Parts were very hard to read and digest but it is important to know our history.
John Ross was a real person but was fictionalized for this book. His character was strong and unbreakable in spite of how he was treated. Being only one eighth Cherokee, he was still considered an Indian and was treated as such. I came to love the characters that John loved. And he was convicted by God to respect and pray for those that treated him so harshly. The addition of scripture from the Bible and the plan of salvation was written into the storyline in a loving way. I’m sure many in the real life story were also changed along the journey to their new land.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise. All opinions are my own.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trail of Tears: The Story of John Ross is the first book in the Ross Saga by Anne Greene. This story is based on true events in our countries history. When the Cherokee didn’t leave their homes on their own, the government stepped in and took them by force to a holding site and then by wagon a thousand miles to a new home. This journey was known as the Trail of Tears and many lives were lost..

This is a heart-wrenching story to read as it tells a story of events that really happened and the terrible effects it had on the Cherokee people and our nation. The author reminds us of the strength those who survived had to get through as well as how their faith helped sustain them. The characters in the story are strong caring characters that share what little they have with others. The thing that stands out to me about this story is the pastor and his devotion to the Cherokee people and how his teaching led so many to the Lord. There were places in this book that I struggled to keep reading as I knew things that were described really did happen to someone. But, I am so glad I finished it. It is truly a great story and I look forward to reading the rest in the series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have previously enjoyed Anne Greene’s books and was excited to have the opportunity to read her newest release, Trail of Tears: The Story of John Ross. This is, also, a great start to her Ross Saga. I loved this book. I enjoyed the historical details that made feel like I had been transported back in time to and being part of the scenes with John Ross. It was a wonderful journey and adventure to go on.

Trail of Tears: The Story of John Ross is getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical fiction. I look forward to the next book from the Ross Saga.
 
I received a paperback copy of Trail of Tears: The Story of John Ross from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Anne Rightler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trail of Tears, by Anne Greene, is a poignant beginning to her new historical fiction series, the Ross Family Saga. With descriptive and compelling prose, Greene tells the story of the Cherokee nation's relocation from Georgia to what was known in 1830s as Indian Territory. It is a story of a horrendous event in the history of the United States. Greene has created an emotional and heartbreaking tale as readers see the relocation from the perspective of John Ross, his family and friends. It is a story of personal strength and growth through adversity and of the value of a personal faith in God. I've read a number of this author's works and Trail of Tears is another great book... it pulled me in from the first page with a story and characters who left an impression on my heart and soul. I am so glad this is just book one in the series as I am looking forward to reading the next story in the Ross family saga.
I was given a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

[Jocelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trail of Tears by Anne Greene is the story of the relocation of the Cherokee nation. Based on true events, the story takes you from the time the government forced the Cherokee people, even if you had a drop of Cherokee blood, on a horrendous journey. Known as the Trail of Tears, it isn't easy to read how the Cherokee people were treated.

Many lives were lost by the cruelty and lack of provisions. There were moments where compassion was displayed. Like when a soldier would carry a child on his shoulders. And a white pastor who taught them along the way. The events that John Ross suffered, brought him to faith. I learned a lot about this time in US history.

Anne Greene has a way of writing that draws you in. Her characters captivate you as she shares their struggles. This story has faith, forgiveness, a clean romance and lots of action. It was well researched. I would recommend this book, especially if you enjoy history and historical fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions are my own.

[Delores Topliff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well-researched and detailed. An important period of history brought to life.

[Kay Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

TRAIL OF TEARS – THE STORY OF JOHN ROSS by Anne Greene is the first book in the Ross Saga series. It’s a thought provoking, realistic story of the relocation of the prosperous Cherokee nation from their ancestral homeland to the government designated Indian Territory one thousand miles away as seen through the eyes of John Ross, Chief Ross’ nephew.

Although John only had a fraction of Indian bloodline, he’s still gathered up along with his mother and Pris, his little sister, after the murder of his father and destruction of Pleasant Acres, his family’s plantation, and taken to the stockade outside New Echota along with many of others Indians. This is where they were kept as prisoners until they were moved to the designated allotted land that they would call home. Denied adequate food and clothing for the changing seasons as well as overcrowding and unsanitary living conditions, disease, illness and death took their toll on both young and old. Of the many left in graves at the stockade included Ross’ much loved little sister. After adding being hit by small pox, thousands more were scattered along the trail including John’s mother.

John’s journey has him meeting many people – both Indian and white man. Rachael Whiteswan, a sixteen year old Christian Indian girl of the Wolf clan, is the first to catches John’s eye. Although young, she was wise beyond her years when she told him, “The white man can imprison my body, but not my spirit.” She becomes indispensable as she cares for both John’s mother and sister and helps them learn how to do things like making do with what meager supplies they are given. Rachael is seen by Bold Hunter as his – to protect and the one he will marry. Although John and Bold Hunter have a rough beginning, it’s John that shows Bold Hunter to God creating a very special bond between them.

Pastor Isaac Worchester, was the first to befriend Ross at the stockade dispensing words of wisdom and faith that eventually bring John to Christianity. Not an Indian, but a white man staying inside the stockade of his own account to minister to those less fortunate. His daughter, Hope, shows up bringing supplies and to aid her father from the outside of the stockade. She also catches John’s eye. How’s a man to know which way to go when with one that seems the right way until he travels down the another way with the other? However, with Hope it seems whenever he opens his mouth that he inserts his foot. He also finds a best friend in the pastor’s son, Jeremy, a member of the Army but one that managed to do his job and still look after his friend’s welfare.

John is saved from sure death when he meets Doc Smith who not only doctored him back to health, but also gave him a trade by teaching him to doctor to the sick and injured. Now he knows he has a way to make a living in the new land giving him the ability to provide for himself and maybe a family.

One major thorn to John is Corporal Dread who has been out to get him from their first meeting. Try as he must to pray for his enemies, it all comes down to one finally event. Can John make peace with the events of that day?

The story in TRAIL OF TEARS – THE STORY OF JOHN ROSS starts in June 1838 and ends in March 1839 when they arrived into Indian Territory in Elbon Valley. In the interim time, there are many sorrows, some happiness, interesting historical events and a few laughs in a story that is tightly woven with a thread of faith that will inspire us all to be better human beings to all mankind. It’s a reminder of how things were in the past and a prayer that they will never be repeated. I greatly enjoyed reading Anne Greene’s story of John Ross and can’t wait for the Jarrett’s story in the next book of this series – FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS. Highly recommend TRAIL OF TEARS to anyone that loves a well-written Christian story that will keep you turning pages as you feeling like you’re there as history was being made as you say a pray of thanks that you weren’t.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My honest review reflects my own personal opinion.

[Julie aka Booklass · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an amazing, horrible, beautiful, brutal journey, both in it's writing and the contextual content.

The story begins with us meeting John Ross, a young man who is half Cherokee, half Scottish, his life is good. His family well to do by the standards of the day. His uncle is involved with the 'negotiations' of Indian territory with the President, so John's family is well respected.

In what seems an instant, and is almost literally little more, John Ross' life is completely turned upside down as his land is invaded by American soldiers commanding they join the movement west immediately, John's father protests and is killed in front of him. No time for anything but shock and disbelief, John, his mother and baby sister and everyone in their village are soon on the move.

John's battle becomes not just fighting the harsh encampment where hundreds die, but the battle for his soul as his internal anger and resentment at the local minister who preaches daily of hope and belief in order to sustain everyone who seeks Jesus.

I HIGHLY recommend reading which path John takes and read this book for yourself! if you have any interest in The Trail of Tears, Christianity, or a moving love story, get a copy!

[Bob Lankford · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I saw the name John Ross, my first thought was the son of J. R. Ewing in the Dallas TV series. I have to admit, I was thinking of his character while initially reading the first chapter. However, it did not take long to transition to the character John Ross that Anne Greene so amicably described in this novel. Having lived in Oklahoma around the Indian territories, I could very easily envision this story taking place. The characters were believable.

I appreciated how John’s heart was very inquisitive about the Lord in his journey. How unique that Pastor Isaac is introduced into the story to care for the prisoners and lead John to the Lord. What a unique way of describing, in a sense, how Jesus was tortured when he was crucified.

The Cherokee nation exercised its faith and God helped bring them through this journey, even when they were being horribly treated. This is truly one of Anne’s great works and I would highly recommend it to all who like to read historical fiction.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book; the opinion is my own.

[Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not an easy book to read as this book depicts the sheer evil brought on the Georgia Cherokees in 1838 as the United States forced them to leave their homes and plantations and civilization to go to a wilderness they were not prepared for, simply because others were jealous of their homes and lands and wanted them. Many had farmed their lands for generations, and some had as little as 1/32 Cherokee blood in them (that means they had a great-great-great grandparent who was Cherokee). But this book also adds another element – how does one love their enemy through such a challenging, difficult time? I really enjoyed this book and kept reading it to find out what would happen next. It made me think so much. I highly recommend it. I received a copy of this book from the author. I am freely writing a review - all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. What was a great book. I knew of the Trail of Tears, but not very much about it. The author was able to bring it to life with wonderful characters and great research. She was able to convey the brutality of the trip, but still want you to keep reading. One of the verses that John keeps depending on is Isaiah 40:28-31, which ends with “They will run and not grow weary, They will walk and not faint”. One sentence in the book that stood out to me was “Perhaps the strength to endure comes as we reach out to help others.”. This book probably means so much to me because I have Cherokee ancestors. I really don’t have the words to express how much this book spoke to me and to give it the justice it deserves.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book; the opinion is my own.

[Mary Stalnaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It is a fictional book based on real life happenings, the moving of the Cherokee Indians from their homes in Georgia to the Indian Territory. The characters are so well developed and you feel like you know them. You can feel the pain that John feels when he is beaten. You feel like you are riding along with them in their Conestoga wagon. Some parts are so realistic that you almost want to stop reading, but you have to keep reading because you want to see what happens. The book will keep your attention all the way through. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes historical fiction.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book; the opinion is my own.

[Medenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

So compelling and emotional

Every feeling is touched while
Reading this book. Anger, sadness, joy, love, compassion, empathy, inspiration. The pages flew by as I absorbed the details. As an Okie, Oklahoma History was required for every Freshman in High School and this event was taught, but not in
The way that brought this event to life. like the book does. Should be required reading for every child.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Such a wonderful and inspirational story! I enjoyed reading about the different characters and how they came to find Jesus. My heart just broke reading the descriptive journey for the Cherokee nation, I definitely want to read the sequels to learn more.

[Deanna Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do enjoy historical fiction based on a true historical happening. This author certainly told the story of the Trail of Tears with such vivid descriptions that the pictures in my mind are still there long after turning the last page. If you enjoy historical fiction you won't be disappointed in this story of John Ross and his journey on the Trail of Tears.

[Sherry Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anne Greene has once again wrote a captivating story in TRAIL OF TEARS”! I loved the characters!
This is such a emotional book. It has love , heartache, hope , and forgiveness. I did not want it to end! Very very good!!!

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gut wrenching

Get out your tissues as you read this story of the hardship and horrors the Cherokee had to endure after being locked up and traveled on the thousand mile trail. With a lot of death, a lot of faith is needed to get them through.

[JoAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trail of Tears is a heartfelt and well written historical novel. The plot is based on the removal of the Cherokee Nation from their homelands to Oklahoma. I highly recommend this book. My thanks to the author for my complimentary copy of the book. This is my unbiased review.

[Linda Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a painful story to read knowing it was based on a true story. Well written book and looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Definitely a story perfect for those who love historical fiction. I was given a copy of this book by the author, but all opinions are my own.

[Bobbi Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really great book. I love how Anne writes all her stories, and this western is another good one. I have heard the story of the Trail of Tears, but never really took the time to read the true story. Thank you for writing a book that had me going back and reading about our history.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one story that has a deep meaning for me. I am part Native American and have read and heard many stories from my grandfather about his treatment when he tried to homestead land. The author captures the reality of what happened to Native Americans when their land was stolen from them. The long wagon ride to their destination was filled with sickness, danger, rough terrain and weather that was unforgiving. The Cherokees were driven from their land and treated with disrespect. Oh how I cried as the people succumbed to small pox and stood helpless as their children died.

The story is very emotional but it is not all gloom and doom. In the midst of the story we witness John becoming curious about God. He asks the pastor why God allows suffering. The pastor answer by saying, “suffering results from our own sin and the sins of others. Suffering makes a person stronger.” This is a turning point for John as his heart is hungry to have a relationship with God. I loved how the author illustrates that even though John and his people were suffering, there was hope.

One of the hardest scenes in the book was between John and Dread. This man is evil and has it in for John. The torture he puts John through is horrific and it made me angry. I didn’t like this man and it began to affect me as I continued reading. As Christians we are to love each other. That certainly can be difficult at times and it becomes a test for us. We are to hate the sin but love the sinner. This story reflects a great example of how a group were treated unfairly. Yes there was hatred and many were angry because of the injustice. But as I continued to read I thought about how this story is part of history. It highlights the discrimination of Native Americans but it should also make us want to change the future.

This has been a very emotional journey as I traveled the land with John. Through his eyes I saw a brave man who showed courage and compassion. Through this story I felt the presence of God telling me to soften my heart to those who have been wronged and mistreated. Allow God to remove hate from me and heal our land fron injustice. Let the tears flow as we all heal from our past.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Behind him, scattered over a nine-hundred-mile trek, remained the graves of four thousand Cherokees.”

Get the Kleenex handy before you start this book. This is a highly emotional story, a fictional account of a tragic historical event that many people may not be familiar with. Sure, I’d heard of the Trail of Tears and brief references to it. Yet, Anne Greene’s book, Trail of Tears, #1, The Ross Family Saga, will give stark life to the Cherokees’ violent, dreadful march.

We follow young John Ross from losing his plantation to being prisoner in a crowded stockade, following the Army’s mantra of “hurry up and wait,” to the months’ long difficult trek across treacherous terrain in freezing weather. Greene’s story gives faces to the people of this unbelievably sad event. I wanted to rail against those who made such evil, cruel decisions against their fellow man and cheer for those who reached within themselves to see all humans as of equal value. Loved the love triangles presented. There were several!!

Be aware: Greene is not above adding, growing, or deleting characters as she sees fit to give the Trail authenticity. (Translation: twists, surprises, faith in awesome glory, and tears!)

I love to pick favorite secondary characters to “award” best-supporting roles to. Watch for Pastor Worcester, a White who chooses unnecessary hardship to travel with the Cherokee to reach them with the Good News. What an inspiration he is. Rachael, a full-blooded Cherokee, is a devout, yet warm Christian whose faith is also contagious.

In the end, each character we meet, whether John, Peterson, Bold Hunter, Jeremy, Dread, or Worthington; must choose whether love or hate will win in their heart. Oh, my! My heart will be crying and remembering for months! May we as people learn from history, to treat each other as equals, all beloved in God’s eyes.

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher through Celebrate Lit. No positive review was required, and all thoughts are my own, freely offered opinions.

Notable Quotables:

“I don’t know why, but I know God … and that is enough.”

‘She’ll shatter your heart. Wherever she goes, she leaves a trail of broken hearts behind.’

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Trail of Tears" by Anne Greene is a heart gripping tale that is a fictional novel based on a true but sad part of history. It is a tale of what white man is capable of doing to other men because of greed and jealously.
Parts of this novel was hard to read, the treatment of John Ross , as well as all of the Indians forced to leave their land, was just awful.

I am glad that there were characters that showed the way to God and gave John Ross and others hope.

The ending was both great and heart breaking. This novel has tragic, love, joy and sadness.

I am glad I read the book but have to be honest and say it was not an easy read.

I really believe that this novel would be a great movie for issues that is going on in today's world, I think people need to remember that all people at one time or another has been persecuted in one form or another by someone whether Jews, African Americans or poor or handicapped some other reason. I think all people need to remember we are basically the same. We all need love, food, warmth and a sense of belonging.

While reading this book, I felt myself saying that's so wrong a couple of times with a few scenes and ok, I admit when a certain bully died, I was like , "Yes, I am glad. Then I had to think "Wow" you are just like that person but then I told myself, it ok to be glad because that person isn't real. But now as I am typing this review I am asking myself, is he really not real as I am sure that there was a person just like him during this trail. I will be wondering about this all day now!

I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series. I received a contemporary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.