Search - Courage in Patience: A Story of Hope for Those Who Have Endured Abuse

Courage in Patience tells the story of Ashley Asher, a 15-year old who has endured sexual and emotional abuse at the hands of her step-father since the age of 9. When her mother refuses to acknowledge the truth, she turns to her favorite teacher at school for help.

Ashley then moves to Patience, Texas to live with her biological father and his family. Through therapy and the love of her new family, Ashley slowly learns to trust again and ultimately forgive herself.

This book is not as sad as it sounds. Unfortunately, the last third of the story veers away from Ashely and goes all Stand and Deliver/Dangerous Minds/Dead Poets Society. (Ashley's step mother is an English teacher, and there is a censorship plot involving her). I found the last section of the book distracting from what would otherwise be a compelling fictional account. Much of the book is written from Ashely's point of view, and her voice reads makes this book read like a YA novel, making this a good choice for mature YA readers.