Home Run

novelization by Travis Thrasher
David C. Cook Publishers

Cory Brand was born to win baseball. To hit home runs that seemed impossible, to be the hero his father could never be. It was his purpose in life, despite the cruelty of his childhood. Running from his past and spiraling out of control despite his insistence to the contrary, he finally gets the reality check he's had coming for years - and gets suspended from the team. Regrets of the past overshadow him like a dark cloud and frustration with present circumstances keep him from realizing how far he has fallen.

Cory's agent, Helene, has arranged a deal with his team that he will complete an eight week recovery program and get his life back on track. When coaching Little League becomes a part of his very public reformation, he is anxious to get things over and done with.What he doesn't expect is what he finds when he returns home. A woman he loved so much, yet betrayed. A brother and family he never has time for. And a boy who may never know who his father is. Will Cory be able to find redemption for his sins? Will he be able to take the second chance he's been given? Or is it too late for someone like him?

This novelization by Thrasher shows exactly how far you can fall, and how God can lift you back up in spite of yourself. It shows us that no matter what we've done, or how much of our life we have destroyed, there is always grace and redemption for us from the Father. The characters were very real and believable, because while we may not suffer their particular afflictions, we are all in need of saving no matter who we are or what we've done. Thrasher has captured the essence and spirit of those who are in the midst of their struggle, and you come to care for each and every one of the people in the story. It is hard to read in places, but it is realistic and honest. No sugar coating. And because of that, I recommend it to anyone who has survived their addictions, or even if they find themselves in the thick of it.

This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.