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River #2
Into the Canyon
A tragic event can be like a refining fire, burning away what was and producing something more pure--a clearer vision of what life should be. But for some, pain becomes paralysis.
When John Clarke gave his life to rescue two reckless kayakers decades ago, his death became a powerful catalyst for good in the life of one of the boys. Filled with gratitude, Jacob Fielding dedicated himself to living life to the fullest, guiding people on The River. But there was another brother who was rescued that day. The guilt and shame Billy Fielding carried after his reckless choice has colored every day since, even overshadowing the rich sacrifice John Clarke made.
John's now-grown son, Gabriel Clarke, has come back to The River. Thanks to Jacob's mentoring and the journal his father left behind, Gabriel has come to know and love The River's ways. Now face-to-face with Billy Fielding after all these years, Gabriel experiences anew the dual choices offered by The River: everlasting and abundant life . . . or death.
So much more than an allegory, this story will challenge readers to love deeply, forgive extravagantly, and live a life for the things that really matter.
When John Clarke gave his life to rescue two reckless kayakers decades ago, his death became a powerful catalyst for good in the life of one of the boys. Filled with gratitude, Jacob Fielding dedicated himself to living life to the fullest, guiding people on The River. But there was another brother who was rescued that day. The guilt and shame Billy Fielding carried after his reckless choice has colored every day since, even overshadowing the rich sacrifice John Clarke made.
John's now-grown son, Gabriel Clarke, has come back to The River. Thanks to Jacob's mentoring and the journal his father left behind, Gabriel has come to know and love The River's ways. Now face-to-face with Billy Fielding after all these years, Gabriel experiences anew the dual choices offered by The River: everlasting and abundant life . . . or death.
So much more than an allegory, this story will challenge readers to love deeply, forgive extravagantly, and live a life for the things that really matter.
- GenresFictionChristian Fiction
283 pages, Paperback
First published September 2, 2014
8 people are currently reading
360 people want to read
About the author
Michael Neale
31 books20 followersGifted writer, performer, and masterful storyteller are all phrases used to describe Michael Neale.
With the highly anticipated September 2012 release of his first novel The River, as well as a second book, Your Great Name, which releases in October 2012, Michael is finding more and more ways to share his gift of storytelling as an author.
As a Dove Award-Winning songwriter, his songs have been recorded by artists such as Michael W. Smith (“Rise Above”), Natalie Grant (“Your Great Name,” Worship Song of the Year in 2012), Rebecca St. James (“In A Moment”), Todd Agnew (“I Need No Other”), and Phillips, Craig and Dean (“Saved the Day”), to name a few.
Michael divides his time among leading worship in churches, songwriting, and being a featured leader and teacher at conferences around the country. In between his travels, Michael serves on the team of Worship Leaders at Christ Fellowship Church in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, where he lives with his wife Leah, and their three children Micah, Maisie, and Wyatt.
With the highly anticipated September 2012 release of his first novel The River, as well as a second book, Your Great Name, which releases in October 2012, Michael is finding more and more ways to share his gift of storytelling as an author.
As a Dove Award-Winning songwriter, his songs have been recorded by artists such as Michael W. Smith (“Rise Above”), Natalie Grant (“Your Great Name,” Worship Song of the Year in 2012), Rebecca St. James (“In A Moment”), Todd Agnew (“I Need No Other”), and Phillips, Craig and Dean (“Saved the Day”), to name a few.
Michael divides his time among leading worship in churches, songwriting, and being a featured leader and teacher at conferences around the country. In between his travels, Michael serves on the team of Worship Leaders at Christ Fellowship Church in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, where he lives with his wife Leah, and their three children Micah, Maisie, and Wyatt.
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August 26, 2014
Into The Canyon is book two in Michael Neale's "River" series. I read book one, The River, back when it first came out and loved it. It was a captivating, quick read that was rich with symbolism, and was truly an allegory. Therefore, I was really excited that Neale was releasing a sequel to it and couldn't wait to read it. Into The Canyon continues Gabriel's story. The description reads:
"A tragic event can be like a refining fire, burning away what was and producing something more pure--a clearer vision of what life should be. But for some, pain becomes paralysis.
When John Clarke gave his life to rescue two reckless kayakers decades ago, his death became a powerful catalyst for good in the life of one of the boys. Filled with gratitude, Jacob Fielding dedicated himself to living life to the fullest, guiding people on The River. But there was another brother who was rescued that day. The guilt and shame Billy Fielding carried after his reckless choice has colored every day since, even overshadowing the rich sacrifice John Clarke made.
John's now-grown son, Gabriel Clarke, has come back to The River. Thanks to Jacob's mentoring and the journal his father left behind, Gabriel has come to know and love The River's ways. Now face-to-face with Billy Fielding after all these years, Gabriel experiences anew the dual choices offered by The River: everlasting and abundant life . . . or death.
So much more than an allegory, this story will challenge readers to love deeply, forgive extravagantly, and live a life for the things that really matter."
I loved this book. It's another very quick read, like The River was. It will touch and move you. Not only does the book have a great plot, the plot is really just the covering of the true story underneath, the allegory that lies behind the characters and events. Will Gabriel choose life or death, forgiveness or bitterness? The only complaint I have about this book is that I'm kind of bummed that it's not packaged as nicely as the first book - The River had a textured cover and rough-cut pages, and it had a rugged ambiance that went perfectly with the story. Into The Canyon is just a regular trade paperback and it won't look as nice sitting onto the shelf next to the first book. But minor aesthetic complaints aside, I highly recommend this book. Please read The River first, though, or this book won't make much sense to you.
I received a copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
"A tragic event can be like a refining fire, burning away what was and producing something more pure--a clearer vision of what life should be. But for some, pain becomes paralysis.
When John Clarke gave his life to rescue two reckless kayakers decades ago, his death became a powerful catalyst for good in the life of one of the boys. Filled with gratitude, Jacob Fielding dedicated himself to living life to the fullest, guiding people on The River. But there was another brother who was rescued that day. The guilt and shame Billy Fielding carried after his reckless choice has colored every day since, even overshadowing the rich sacrifice John Clarke made.
John's now-grown son, Gabriel Clarke, has come back to The River. Thanks to Jacob's mentoring and the journal his father left behind, Gabriel has come to know and love The River's ways. Now face-to-face with Billy Fielding after all these years, Gabriel experiences anew the dual choices offered by The River: everlasting and abundant life . . . or death.
So much more than an allegory, this story will challenge readers to love deeply, forgive extravagantly, and live a life for the things that really matter."
I loved this book. It's another very quick read, like The River was. It will touch and move you. Not only does the book have a great plot, the plot is really just the covering of the true story underneath, the allegory that lies behind the characters and events. Will Gabriel choose life or death, forgiveness or bitterness? The only complaint I have about this book is that I'm kind of bummed that it's not packaged as nicely as the first book - The River had a textured cover and rough-cut pages, and it had a rugged ambiance that went perfectly with the story. Into The Canyon is just a regular trade paperback and it won't look as nice sitting onto the shelf next to the first book. But minor aesthetic complaints aside, I highly recommend this book. Please read The River first, though, or this book won't make much sense to you.
I received a copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 15, 2016
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The picturesque cover of Michael Neale’s Into the Canyon first drew my attention to the novel. The rushing waterfall made me imagine characters in the wilderness, surrounded by majestic mountains, swiftly winding rivers, towering trees, and I was excited to immerse myself in the setting. And as I read, I loved the role the surrounding nature played in the story, and the characters often had adventures rafting, hiking and fishing. This setting proved a beautiful one for this story of new beginnings.
However, I was unprepared for the complete reverence with which the characters refer to “The River.” I have not read Neale’s previous novel, The River, which gives the beginning of Gabriel Clarke’s experience at The River, and maybe reading it first would have helped me acclimate to their manner of thinking. I understood the intention of symbolic meaning for The River, but with just Into the Canyon to form my opinion, the continued river worship felt odd and didn’t completely work for me.
Also, Neale’s simple, basic writing didn’t help. To me, the characters came across shallow, despite their constant need to have deep conversations, and while they are likeable enough, I never truly connected with any of them. Their emotion is limited, and their dialogue (in word choice and phrasing) often seemed out-of-character, especially with the unnecessary abundance of “…” and “!”.
Yet, despite the flaws I perceived, Into the Canyon is still a nice, uplifting story and definitely a quick read. I think readers who read and enjoyed The River will certainly want to pick it up and see where Gabriel’s story goes. (I would not recommend reading Into the Canyon before The River.)
Thanks to BookLook Bloggers, I received a copy of Into the Canyon and the opportunity to honestly review it. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own. (I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)
The picturesque cover of Michael Neale’s Into the Canyon first drew my attention to the novel. The rushing waterfall made me imagine characters in the wilderness, surrounded by majestic mountains, swiftly winding rivers, towering trees, and I was excited to immerse myself in the setting. And as I read, I loved the role the surrounding nature played in the story, and the characters often had adventures rafting, hiking and fishing. This setting proved a beautiful one for this story of new beginnings.
However, I was unprepared for the complete reverence with which the characters refer to “The River.” I have not read Neale’s previous novel, The River, which gives the beginning of Gabriel Clarke’s experience at The River, and maybe reading it first would have helped me acclimate to their manner of thinking. I understood the intention of symbolic meaning for The River, but with just Into the Canyon to form my opinion, the continued river worship felt odd and didn’t completely work for me.
Also, Neale’s simple, basic writing didn’t help. To me, the characters came across shallow, despite their constant need to have deep conversations, and while they are likeable enough, I never truly connected with any of them. Their emotion is limited, and their dialogue (in word choice and phrasing) often seemed out-of-character, especially with the unnecessary abundance of “…” and “!”.
Yet, despite the flaws I perceived, Into the Canyon is still a nice, uplifting story and definitely a quick read. I think readers who read and enjoyed The River will certainly want to pick it up and see where Gabriel’s story goes. (I would not recommend reading Into the Canyon before The River.)
Thanks to BookLook Bloggers, I received a copy of Into the Canyon and the opportunity to honestly review it. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own. (I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)
September 5, 2014
Hope, that's what our souls need... The River gave me what I could not give myself...a reason.
Sweet cinnamon, what a refreshing read. I'm not even an outdoorsy type, most of the time, but Into the Canyon took me straight there, right into the wonder of God's open, living creation, with fantastic imagery from author Michael Neale. And, hey, the book's awesome cover didn't do a bad job at all of setting the stage for the story.
Admission: I turned on waterfall "white noise" to play in the background while I read much of this novel, but even without my added sound effects, I could have been standing right at The River's edge by way of the images Neale uses to bring Gabriel's story of love, fears, forgiveness, and abundant living to life. Blake's soul-searching account blends in well, and his sentiment while out on the water in Gabriel's enlightening world makes sense: "It was like one part of me started to die and one part of me started to awaken from the dead."
While Gabriel has fear, grief, and anger issues to work through as a young man, it seems that his turning point is more or less glossed over, that we see him struggle during specific events and express his doubts to Ezra about whether to believe in God, and then the narrator just tells us that Gabriel's perspective is changing, instead of, perhaps, giving us another specific event or words from young Gabriel to show us how the change in his thinking begins. Also, the use of "The River" metaphor/phrase does get somewhat repetitive.
Yet, the journey into the canyon is worth taking, and I'd encourage readers not to "try" to read into the novel but to let the story find them where it finds them, to be refreshed by it.
It's important to share our stories. It helps us know we aren't alone.
_________________
BookLook Bloggers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review.
Sweet cinnamon, what a refreshing read. I'm not even an outdoorsy type, most of the time, but Into the Canyon took me straight there, right into the wonder of God's open, living creation, with fantastic imagery from author Michael Neale. And, hey, the book's awesome cover didn't do a bad job at all of setting the stage for the story.
Admission: I turned on waterfall "white noise" to play in the background while I read much of this novel, but even without my added sound effects, I could have been standing right at The River's edge by way of the images Neale uses to bring Gabriel's story of love, fears, forgiveness, and abundant living to life. Blake's soul-searching account blends in well, and his sentiment while out on the water in Gabriel's enlightening world makes sense: "It was like one part of me started to die and one part of me started to awaken from the dead."
While Gabriel has fear, grief, and anger issues to work through as a young man, it seems that his turning point is more or less glossed over, that we see him struggle during specific events and express his doubts to Ezra about whether to believe in God, and then the narrator just tells us that Gabriel's perspective is changing, instead of, perhaps, giving us another specific event or words from young Gabriel to show us how the change in his thinking begins. Also, the use of "The River" metaphor/phrase does get somewhat repetitive.
Yet, the journey into the canyon is worth taking, and I'd encourage readers not to "try" to read into the novel but to let the story find them where it finds them, to be refreshed by it.
It's important to share our stories. It helps us know we aren't alone.
_________________
BookLook Bloggers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review.
September 2, 2014
An Inspirational Journey on The River
In this sequel to The River, Gabriel Clark learns to become a river guide. Jacob Fielding, the man Gabriel's father saved at the expense of his own life, takes him into his family and the into his guide business. Gabriel is still struggling with his fears of The River, but the more he learns the more he trusts himself and feels The River is his true home.
The book is peopled with characters from The River: Jacob Fielding and his daughters Tabitha and Sadie, Ezra Buchanan, Gabriel's mother, Maggie, and Rio, his marvelous dog. The book is a continuation of Gabriel's struggle to forgive, give of himself, and find love. The plot is very simple, no twists or complex threads, but it you enjoy inspirational reading, this is a good book.
For me, the major problem with the book is that the writing is very simple and sometimes awkward. However, this doesn't distract too much from the description of the wild river and surroundings. In fact, The River is the major character in the book. The other other character including Gabriel are rather one dimensional. They suffer, but it is almost a foregone conclusion that they will succeed. It seems too easy.
The descriptions of white water rafting are worth reading the book for. They are accurate and exciting. If you enjoy the outdoors, camping, hiking, and rafting, you'll enjoy this book. Likewise if you like inspirational books, this is one for you.
I reviewed this book for Thomas Nelson's BookLook Bloggers.
In this sequel to The River, Gabriel Clark learns to become a river guide. Jacob Fielding, the man Gabriel's father saved at the expense of his own life, takes him into his family and the into his guide business. Gabriel is still struggling with his fears of The River, but the more he learns the more he trusts himself and feels The River is his true home.
The book is peopled with characters from The River: Jacob Fielding and his daughters Tabitha and Sadie, Ezra Buchanan, Gabriel's mother, Maggie, and Rio, his marvelous dog. The book is a continuation of Gabriel's struggle to forgive, give of himself, and find love. The plot is very simple, no twists or complex threads, but it you enjoy inspirational reading, this is a good book.
For me, the major problem with the book is that the writing is very simple and sometimes awkward. However, this doesn't distract too much from the description of the wild river and surroundings. In fact, The River is the major character in the book. The other other character including Gabriel are rather one dimensional. They suffer, but it is almost a foregone conclusion that they will succeed. It seems too easy.
The descriptions of white water rafting are worth reading the book for. They are accurate and exciting. If you enjoy the outdoors, camping, hiking, and rafting, you'll enjoy this book. Likewise if you like inspirational books, this is one for you.
I reviewed this book for Thomas Nelson's BookLook Bloggers.
July 10, 2022
Continues on with and puts a nice bow on Gabriel’s story, while again displaying the power of forgiveness, redemption, and growth.
I know it was a shorter book, but I felt it lacked some of the depth of The River, hence the 3 stars, which are 3.75 stars. Still, if you enjoyed the first story, it’s definitely worth reading.
I know it was a shorter book, but I felt it lacked some of the depth of The River, hence the 3 stars, which are 3.75 stars. Still, if you enjoyed the first story, it’s definitely worth reading.
January 31, 2024
I absolutely enjoyed the first part of this 2-part series, The River. Into the Canyon was just as enjoyable. I was sad to see the additions to the gravesite, but excited to have met John Ezra. Buchanan was a treat!! ❤️
February 12, 2024
Awesome read!
These books are inspiring and uplifting. I would recommend them to anyone . This is the second time I've read these books and I look forward to reading them sometime again in the future. Enjoy!
Shalom.... JP
These books are inspiring and uplifting. I would recommend them to anyone . This is the second time I've read these books and I look forward to reading them sometime again in the future. Enjoy!
Shalom.... JP
January 24, 2025
Into the Canyon
Well written and different! There are lots of life lessons in this story. Find the way you are supposed to go and pursue it! Look for the good in people and be quick to forgive!
Well written and different! There are lots of life lessons in this story. Find the way you are supposed to go and pursue it! Look for the good in people and be quick to forgive!
July 12, 2025
All time favorite book. Action pack with deep meaning
Man I was not expecting this book to grab me the way it did. The way he writes and describes the nature along with the deep life lessons just kicked me straight in the soul.
Man I was not expecting this book to grab me the way it did. The way he writes and describes the nature along with the deep life lessons just kicked me straight in the soul.
June 5, 2017
I read this book in 2 days on vacation. It really kept my interest. I would recommend Into the Canyon by Michael Neale.
June 8, 2018
Some good morals.
August 18, 2018
Generational story told that kept my attention and made for a good read.
March 9, 2020
A beautiful and exciting story about being in the wilderness of Colorado, white water rafting, and the lessons of life. Don't miss this one!
December 17, 2025
Absolutely beautiful book!!
November 7, 2014
Michael Neale in his new book, “Into The Canyon” Book Two in The River series published by Thomas Nelson gives us another adventure with Gabriel Clarke.
From the back cover: Some stories take generations to unfold.
Gabriel Clarke has The River in his blood: The River that he loved as a child. The River that took his father, John. The River he feared, fled . . . and has come back to now.
Jacob Fielding owes the last twenty years of his life to John Clarke—the stranger who drowned saving him and his brother from their own boyish recklessness. Since that day, Jacob’s gratitude has extended to everyone around him . . . especially Gabriel, that brave man’s son.
But while the death of John Clarke became a powerful force for good in Jacob, it has been an unshakable source of darkness in another man. When gratitude and guilt meet at the River, two decades after that fateful day, Gabriel finds himself face-to-face with a stark choice for his own future: anger or forgiveness, hatred or love, death or life.
So much more than an allegory, Into the Canyon will inspire you to love deeply, forgive extravagantly, and live large.
The River itself is just a river starts at the beginning and travels to the sea so it is not the problem. The problem is the events that occur on The River. Not all the trauma that we were exposed to was dealt with in the first book, there was healing, yes, but not complete. Now we are being given closure. “Into The Canyon” is a marvelous read full of atmosphere and details. “Into The Canyon” is about friendship. It is about honesty, rebuilding your life and moving forward in a new direction. It is about trusting God and learning to lean on Him for His guidance and direction. Mr. Neale knows how to tell a story that is both interesting and thought-provoking and I recommend it highly.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Some stories take generations to unfold.
Gabriel Clarke has The River in his blood: The River that he loved as a child. The River that took his father, John. The River he feared, fled . . . and has come back to now.
Jacob Fielding owes the last twenty years of his life to John Clarke—the stranger who drowned saving him and his brother from their own boyish recklessness. Since that day, Jacob’s gratitude has extended to everyone around him . . . especially Gabriel, that brave man’s son.
But while the death of John Clarke became a powerful force for good in Jacob, it has been an unshakable source of darkness in another man. When gratitude and guilt meet at the River, two decades after that fateful day, Gabriel finds himself face-to-face with a stark choice for his own future: anger or forgiveness, hatred or love, death or life.
So much more than an allegory, Into the Canyon will inspire you to love deeply, forgive extravagantly, and live large.
The River itself is just a river starts at the beginning and travels to the sea so it is not the problem. The problem is the events that occur on The River. Not all the trauma that we were exposed to was dealt with in the first book, there was healing, yes, but not complete. Now we are being given closure. “Into The Canyon” is a marvelous read full of atmosphere and details. “Into The Canyon” is about friendship. It is about honesty, rebuilding your life and moving forward in a new direction. It is about trusting God and learning to lean on Him for His guidance and direction. Mr. Neale knows how to tell a story that is both interesting and thought-provoking and I recommend it highly.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
September 14, 2014
‘Into the Canyon’ is the second book in ‘The River’ series.
SYNPOSIS: An exhilarating, powerful story from the bestselling author of The River. Some stories take generations to unfold. Gabriel Clarke has The River in his blood: The River that he loved as a child. The River that took his father, John. The River he feared, fled... and has come back to now.
Jacob Fielding owes the last twenty years of his life to John Clarke—the stranger who drowned saving him and his brother from their own boyish recklessness. Since that day, Jacob’s gratitude has extended to everyone around him... especially Gabriel, that brave man’s son.
But while the death of John Clarke became a powerful force for good in Jacob, it has been an unshakable source of darkness in another man. When gratitude and guilt meet at the River, two decades after that fateful day, Gabriel finds himself face-to-face with a stark choice for his own future: anger or forgiveness, hatred or love, death or life.
So much more than an allegory, Into the Canyon will inspire you to love deeply, forgive extravagantly, and live large.
I will begin by saying that it is pointless to read this one without reading the first. I felt lost from page one. Neale’s previous novel, The River, is the beginning of Gabriel Clarke’s experience at The River. What I definitely didn’t expect was the characters absolute devotion to this river. It was more than a setting, more than a character- it was almost idolatry. I suppose I half expected a novel similar to the movie ‘The River Wild’.
The author’s writing comes across a bit too elementary for me in general. He seems to have an aversion to casual dialogue so much so that every conversation was like the last one the characters would share. On the surface they seemed pleasant enough, but none of them foster a deep connection with the readers.
For the most part, one could say that they plot was inspiring in nature. It simply wasn’t for me. I rate it 3 stars.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
SYNPOSIS: An exhilarating, powerful story from the bestselling author of The River. Some stories take generations to unfold. Gabriel Clarke has The River in his blood: The River that he loved as a child. The River that took his father, John. The River he feared, fled... and has come back to now.
Jacob Fielding owes the last twenty years of his life to John Clarke—the stranger who drowned saving him and his brother from their own boyish recklessness. Since that day, Jacob’s gratitude has extended to everyone around him... especially Gabriel, that brave man’s son.
But while the death of John Clarke became a powerful force for good in Jacob, it has been an unshakable source of darkness in another man. When gratitude and guilt meet at the River, two decades after that fateful day, Gabriel finds himself face-to-face with a stark choice for his own future: anger or forgiveness, hatred or love, death or life.
So much more than an allegory, Into the Canyon will inspire you to love deeply, forgive extravagantly, and live large.
I will begin by saying that it is pointless to read this one without reading the first. I felt lost from page one. Neale’s previous novel, The River, is the beginning of Gabriel Clarke’s experience at The River. What I definitely didn’t expect was the characters absolute devotion to this river. It was more than a setting, more than a character- it was almost idolatry. I suppose I half expected a novel similar to the movie ‘The River Wild’.
The author’s writing comes across a bit too elementary for me in general. He seems to have an aversion to casual dialogue so much so that every conversation was like the last one the characters would share. On the surface they seemed pleasant enough, but none of them foster a deep connection with the readers.
For the most part, one could say that they plot was inspiring in nature. It simply wasn’t for me. I rate it 3 stars.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
November 27, 2014
Forget the sappy Christian romances or the "in your face" Bible thumping novels, Into the Canyon by Michael Neale is a wonderful mixture of faith, adventure, and life issues.
I didn't realize that it was a sequel until the end; this being book two and the first being The River. I don't think that one has to read the first book to get the gist of the second, which is nice when it comes to a series.
Gabriel Clarke lost his father to The River at age 5. Throughout this book he comes to love The River himself (something that terrified him for years after the accident) and learns to forgive the man who lived who his father died attempting to save. This book touches on love, faith, forgiveness, and most of all...HOPE.
There were a few things I didn't like about this book (though I did start it and finish it within one evening...so it proved to be an interesting read!). The journals within the book (thankfully, there are just tiny experts) are contrived and frankly quite annoying. You aren't sure WHO the journals are for - they read like words of wisdom for someone else and yet also seem so vague while trying to appear wise. I hated the journal entries.
"The River" seems to be an entity of it's own. To the point that it almost seemed to replace God and become "the life-source of all". The way "The River" is described, especially in the journal entries, are puzzling. For example, on page 227, the last sentence of the journal entry is "Therefore, what The Great River has put together, nothing on earth will tear apart." This is typical of how "The River" is described throughout the book. I waited for it to just turn to a metaphor, something relating to God, but it never happened. This doesn't seem to fit in a Christian book.
Disclaimer: This book was given to me by BookLook Bloggers in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't realize that it was a sequel until the end; this being book two and the first being The River. I don't think that one has to read the first book to get the gist of the second, which is nice when it comes to a series.
Gabriel Clarke lost his father to The River at age 5. Throughout this book he comes to love The River himself (something that terrified him for years after the accident) and learns to forgive the man who lived who his father died attempting to save. This book touches on love, faith, forgiveness, and most of all...HOPE.
There were a few things I didn't like about this book (though I did start it and finish it within one evening...so it proved to be an interesting read!). The journals within the book (thankfully, there are just tiny experts) are contrived and frankly quite annoying. You aren't sure WHO the journals are for - they read like words of wisdom for someone else and yet also seem so vague while trying to appear wise. I hated the journal entries.
"The River" seems to be an entity of it's own. To the point that it almost seemed to replace God and become "the life-source of all". The way "The River" is described, especially in the journal entries, are puzzling. For example, on page 227, the last sentence of the journal entry is "Therefore, what The Great River has put together, nothing on earth will tear apart." This is typical of how "The River" is described throughout the book. I waited for it to just turn to a metaphor, something relating to God, but it never happened. This doesn't seem to fit in a Christian book.
Disclaimer: This book was given to me by BookLook Bloggers in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2015
I am not much into sappy stories, and bits of this book are awfully touchy-feely and sappy. But, I was pleasantly surprised that despite this being a Chrstian allegory written by a worship leader at Christ Fellowship Church, this was actually a story written to be inclusive of people who are not Christians at all.
In this book Blake, a man whose wife and kids have left him, turns up at a Colorado whitewater rafting venue called The River, which sounds like many of the rafting companies along the Cache la Poudre River. He has been invited by a man named Gabriel, who has been a rafting guide for many years there. Gabriel offers Blake a week at the River to sort himself out a bit, and in the course of the rest of the book we hear Gabriel's story and Blake's, and get some philosophy and potentially good advice. For people who need this to be a Christian book, it is easy enough to see the allegory, but for those of us non-Christians who are tired of being pressured by Christians, this book can be read just as written, and comes across as a sort of Colorado flavor of zen.
(I received my copy of this book free through the Goodreads First Reads giveaways program.)
In this book Blake, a man whose wife and kids have left him, turns up at a Colorado whitewater rafting venue called The River, which sounds like many of the rafting companies along the Cache la Poudre River. He has been invited by a man named Gabriel, who has been a rafting guide for many years there. Gabriel offers Blake a week at the River to sort himself out a bit, and in the course of the rest of the book we hear Gabriel's story and Blake's, and get some philosophy and potentially good advice. For people who need this to be a Christian book, it is easy enough to see the allegory, but for those of us non-Christians who are tired of being pressured by Christians, this book can be read just as written, and comes across as a sort of Colorado flavor of zen.
(I received my copy of this book free through the Goodreads First Reads giveaways program.)
November 24, 2014
I found this story not quite as moving as I was originally thinking it was going to be. I really enjoyed different “quotes” from the Journal and I especially loved the different aspects of The River playing into different characters’ lives. I liked how the author used the River as an analogy to so many challenges in life.
That being said, the writing style seemed quite weak to me. I never really felt the emotions that the characters did and often found myself thinking, hmm….more could have been done here. The relationship between the main character and Tabitha just didn’t seem to be very realistic in some aspects. It’s like it didn’t get delved into deep enough, or maybe that was because the character development was lacking.
I did appreciate the different feelings associated with the River. My favorite character, and the most developed for me, was Ezra. I felt more could have been done with his story and how it helped people. The main character’s trying to help the “lost” soul kept getting in the way of the original story.
Overall, it was a beautiful story about faith and hope and finding oneself courage and strength to move forward.
That being said, the writing style seemed quite weak to me. I never really felt the emotions that the characters did and often found myself thinking, hmm….more could have been done here. The relationship between the main character and Tabitha just didn’t seem to be very realistic in some aspects. It’s like it didn’t get delved into deep enough, or maybe that was because the character development was lacking.
I did appreciate the different feelings associated with the River. My favorite character, and the most developed for me, was Ezra. I felt more could have been done with his story and how it helped people. The main character’s trying to help the “lost” soul kept getting in the way of the original story.
Overall, it was a beautiful story about faith and hope and finding oneself courage and strength to move forward.
December 24, 2014
Gabriel Clarke has the river in his blood. He loved the river as a child, that same river took his fathers life.
Jacob Fielding owes his life to Gabriel's father, John. The stranger who drowned saving him and his brother when they were young.
Two decades after that fateful day,
Gabriel finds himself back at the river he feared and fled,
to come face-to-face with a choice for his future; anger and forgiveness, hatred, or love, death or life.
This book was a wonderful read, Michael Neale pulls you into his book and the characters.
I could not put it down.
** I received a complimentary copy of this book, from BookLook, in exchange for my honest review and opinions. **
Jacob Fielding owes his life to Gabriel's father, John. The stranger who drowned saving him and his brother when they were young.
Two decades after that fateful day,
Gabriel finds himself back at the river he feared and fled,
to come face-to-face with a choice for his future; anger and forgiveness, hatred, or love, death or life.
This book was a wonderful read, Michael Neale pulls you into his book and the characters.
I could not put it down.
** I received a complimentary copy of this book, from BookLook, in exchange for my honest review and opinions. **
September 24, 2014
I received this powerful book from Goodreads, and I am so very glad I did.
From tragedy comes re-birth. As a five year old, Gabriel Clarke lost his Father to The River. His Mother takes him to Kansas, where he grows up, but deep within him is the need to return to the place where it all happened. The River is a part of him. Now, twenty years later, he has come home.
‘Into The Canyon’ is a beautifully told story of endings and beginnings, of forgiveness, and of love.
This book will touch your very soul.
From tragedy comes re-birth. As a five year old, Gabriel Clarke lost his Father to The River. His Mother takes him to Kansas, where he grows up, but deep within him is the need to return to the place where it all happened. The River is a part of him. Now, twenty years later, he has come home.
‘Into The Canyon’ is a beautifully told story of endings and beginnings, of forgiveness, and of love.
This book will touch your very soul.
August 29, 2015
...were not in Kansas anymore!
Fabulous sequel to M. Neale's first book, The River! Solid character development, a growing plot that picked up right where the first book left off, life challenge and love is portrayed through this wonderful story telling fictional yet grounded in biblical truths within.
Gabriel Clarke is a perfect reflection of all of us looking for forgiveness, acceptance, love and life adventure!
If you're looking for a light, fun, fictional read with a deeper lifesaving, you've found the best with Into the Canyon!
Fabulous sequel to M. Neale's first book, The River! Solid character development, a growing plot that picked up right where the first book left off, life challenge and love is portrayed through this wonderful story telling fictional yet grounded in biblical truths within.
Gabriel Clarke is a perfect reflection of all of us looking for forgiveness, acceptance, love and life adventure!
If you're looking for a light, fun, fictional read with a deeper lifesaving, you've found the best with Into the Canyon!
April 21, 2016
A tragic event can be like a refining fire, burning away what was and producing something more pure--a clearer vision of what life should be. But for some, pain becomes paralysis.
So much more than an allegory, this story will challenge readers to love deeply, forgive extravagantly, and live a life for the things that really matter.
This second novel of The River was just as enlightening if not more so that The River. I would recommend any and all to read both books by Michael Neale. He is an excellent inspirational writer. The River is deep with memories, life and adventure.
So much more than an allegory, this story will challenge readers to love deeply, forgive extravagantly, and live a life for the things that really matter.
This second novel of The River was just as enlightening if not more so that The River. I would recommend any and all to read both books by Michael Neale. He is an excellent inspirational writer. The River is deep with memories, life and adventure.
September 10, 2014
The story of a man, Jacob, who was rescued from a river twenty years ago, along with his brother. The man who rescued them died that day. This is the story of the man's son and Jacob and the River.
December 17, 2016
More allegory than anything else. I believe this is the second in the series but I have not read the first. I found it as I searched through the unlimited titles on Scribd . I would like to read the first.
November 15, 2014
Good clean fun! And now to read the first book, where it all began. The River!
August 30, 2015
Awesome! Part two of The River by the same author...also great!
July 18, 2015
Heel mooi verhaal over liefde en relaties. Het pakte me van het begin tot het einde. Zeer de moeite waard!
February 6, 2017
Amazing!!
June 1, 2021
the perfect sequel to a great book!!
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