Brent van Staalduinen is an author known for his novels and acclaimed short fiction. His literary work delves into the human experience, frequently exploring themes of faith, loss, and the search for identity in the modern world. Van Staalduinen masterfully blends introspective examination with compelling storytelling, offering readers an unforgettable literary journey. His writing resonates with authenticity and emotion, establishing him as a significant voice in contemporary literature.
Boy's final year of high school is unraveling. Fast. He had it all worked out, from crushing his final exams to military school to a career in the air force. But his family's tragic past and its complicated present have caught up to him, and his marks are slipping, jeopardizing all of his plans.
Set against the backdrop of a sweltering summer, the story explores Dills' emotional turmoil as he grapples with the reality of a horrific crime committed by a parent he deeply loves. This journey of understanding and acceptance delves into complex themes of loyalty, morality, and the struggle to reconcile familial bonds with the truth.
In a post-apocalyptic world, Lorry Martens, a troubled army veteran, navigates life in the isolated barge community of Barren Arm. After the murder of her best friend Neil, she discovers he was the guardian of a hidden relic, and his death initiates a dangerous succession ritual. Tasked with guiding Neil's successor to the relic's mountain hiding place, Lorry must confront her dark past and face those who seek the relic for themselves, leading her into a treacherous landscape filled with betrayal and peril.