Where Mercy Flows, a Novel

Once in a great while, someone leaps out of the pack called ordinary and becomes extraordinary. That is Karen Harter. Her work is so thrilling - because it is so apparently infused with truth. You will not be sorry you spent time in the pages of WHERE MERCY FLOWS. Guaranteed!

This book is very easy to read and enjoy. From the vivid descriptions of the beautiful landscape of Northwest Washington, the knowledgeable details of fly fishing, and the unique lives of those who make up a small rural town - you are easily pulled into the story. It is an emotional story and I found myself wiping the tears away as the story unfolded.

Seven years ago teenager Samantha Dodd eloped with her boyfriend causing a strain with her mother and sister, but especially with her father, the "Judge". Over five years she had an extramarital affair that led to her giving birth to a boy, TJ. Her husband walked out on her and their marriage. Samantha was too proud to go home and face the judgment of her father until now. Ailing, lacking health insurance and afraid for TJ, Samantha returns to the home of her parents in Stillaguamish Valley, Washington. Samantha's mom and sister welcome her and TJ with open arms. She also hits it off with childhood friend Donnie Duncan, who has always loved Samantha. However, her relationship with the Judge remains strained as she feels he judges her as a failure. When he learns that she suffers from a viral heart disease that will lead to his beloved daughter's death and danger from a stalker, the Judge takes action from the heart to stop the assailant and to learn from his friend Dr. Matt what he can do to save the life of his daughter. This is a fabulous character driven tale in which Samantha will soon learn what true love really is. The cast is strong as each of the family members seems real and the dynamics with Samantha at the center fabulous as she sees her mom fears she will leave again; sis prays for her salvation; and dad remains in judgment. She will realize she has been judge, jury and hang-woman and must pardon herself in this superb heart-wrenching inspirational family drama. Harriet Klausner

I was very lucky to get an advanced reading copy of this book. OMG, I felt everything that Samantha was feeling. Samantha is working through her own feelings of self-worthlessness when she returns home. The seven years that she has been gone, after running away with her high school sweetheart, have not been kind to Sam. She has lived on the edge, while trying to be a good mother to her son. She returns home, wondering if she will be accepted, and also her beautiful son, the result of a one-night stand with a man of a different race. Not only is she and her son accepted by her family, they are also cherished. However, it seems that the acceptence that Sam is seeking, comes not from her family, but from within herself. I found this to be a beautiful story of discovery and cried throughout most of the book. The emotions brought forward by this author are real and it was another book that I couldn't go to sleep without finishing.