No Longer Alone: Based on a True Story

by Melinda Viergever Inman

Manhood arrived prematurely. At the tender age of fifteen, Prentis lost both his father and his confidence that God loved him. He grew up fast after that day, abandoning his education to take on the responsibility and hardship of supporting his mother and siblings.

Now, in Prentis’s twenties, Avery reenters his life. A Sunday School teacher with a passion for learning and theology, she is intelligent with a captivating spirit. Prentis finds her irresistible. The audacity of attempting to court such a woman in no way weakens his resolve. He’s determined to win her heart. But male competition, vicious gossip, Avery’s unspoken fears, and the ruin of his livelihood hinder his efforts. How can Prentis win her? And if he does, how will they overcome their differences, the hard life on the Oklahoma plains, and a world at war?

330 pages, Paperback

First published July 26, 2017

About the author

Raised on the Oklahoma plains in a storytelling family, Melinda now spins tales from her writer's cave in the Midwest. Her faith-filled fiction illustrates our human story, wrestling with our brokenness and the storms that wreak havoc in our lives. Find her at http://MelindaInman.com.

Reviews

[Peter Younghusband · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perspective by Peter:

It has taken me 2.5 years to read this novel. But it has been worth the wait!  I have read the reviews and I can say that I agree with them! This is a wonderful story! Beautiful in its structure and execution. I am not into romance as a genre even from a Christian perspective, but I thoroughly enjoyed this and was captivated and engrossed. I wondered why. Just like Prentis investigated why he needed to attend church in this novel, (sorry, minor spoiler!) I investigated my query or as he did too, used self-reflection. While he had to work through the negative effects from his past, I had to work through why this novel captivated me so much.

It is simply this; if this was totally fictional, I would have classed it as just another soppy Christian romance where everything works out in the end with one HEA (happy ever after). Yes, I have a degree of cynicism! But this novel is not like that!

Inman has based this novel on a true story. The true story of her family, her great grandparents. So for me, this was hook number one. I recently listened to an interview between Patricia A. Durgin and the author where Melinda tells how this fictionised account of her family came to be. I have added it below (10 mins duration).

[embed]https://www.facebook.com/melinda.inma...

But it also tells of the spiritual heritage the Avery and Prentis (Melinda's great-grandparents) founded in their marriage. And it was this that for me was so captivating. This was not just a love story based on two people who loved each other, this was an account that showed where the basis of that love came from: God. Avery and Prentis sought to love each other through and by His perspective and by His Spirit. Just as Jesus laid down His life to redeem man, in such a sacrificial way, so did these two learn that they had to place God first, then each other, and themselves (individually) last. It is very much reflective of the acronym,

JOY= Jesus, Others, Yourself.

This novel abounds with a variety of spiritual and Biblical truths. As I have stated in my review of Inman's other two novels, Fallen and Refuge, this novel (just like those two) could be used as a guide to how to live Biblically, but specifically in this novel how to live as married based on the relationship of Jesus and His Church. This was a breath of fresh air to read a novel like this with such Biblical depth and truth. Another aspect of this refreshing was that it did not read as instructional, or preachy (I don't mind that at all, but some Christians do and especially non-Christians!) but written in a relational manner, so that it came across as Avery and Prentis applying these truths and disciplines to their lives, discussing them in relation to each other, resolving conflict while learning about each other and becoming closer to God in the process. They took ownership of their shortcomings, presented these to God and to each other and sought to overcome them by allowing the Spirit to minister to them and show them how to change and not be divided. How important did they show the Word of God here. I was impressed at how they did not allow these shortcomings (pride, selfishness, insecurity, issues from their upbringing) to become a stronghold in their lives. Again, through all that, they placed God first, then each other. 

How very different is this to what we see today in Christian behaviour, attitude and in marriage? I know from myself that when I became a Christian it was impressed upon me by our church and particularly one elder that we need to be sacrificial in all we do, just like the acronym of JOY above. Not only did this benefit me when I married but it had the added benefit of enabling me to care for my wife as her chronic illness took centre stage in our marriage and relationship. Avery and Prentis testify it was Jesus who saw them through their hardships and learning about how to live together and honour God but only by them bring everything to Him as their first action, the good, the bad and the ugly. How we all need to do this today if we really do want to be obedient to Him and allow Him to direct our paths and be the centre of our lives and marriage!

This novel shows us how to put live out our faith as we are instructed to do in James 1:22, where he says,

But be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves

I have not read a novel where is so evident throughout. I must confess, it challenged me to self-reflect (again) on how I am living out my faith and how consistent am I putting God first and my wife, family, and others I interact with ahead of myself?

Reading this novel, reminded me of another that promotes our spiritual heritage. In The Watchers (Covert Missions Book 1) by Mark Andrew Olsen, he states,

I'd like to address the issue of "Spiritual Genealogy".... I encourage everyone to try to trace their spiritual genealogy as far as possible, as a fascinating and inspiring pastime. However, I have no desire to confuse, dilute or otherwise complicate the far truer and more edifying Scriptural nomenclature off the Family of God. God is our true heavenly Father and our spiritual one as well. Those matter supremely. I only maintain that tracing the path of the one or ones who led us to Christ can often reveal fascinating and revealing truths of our spiritual heritage.

I highly recommend every Christian reading this novel and its sequel, The Warriors (Covert Missions Book 2) just as I do the same for the sequel to No Longer Alone, The Shadows Come, which I am so eager to read now.

Inman is very blessed to have been able to trace her family's spiritual heritage and record it the way she has. It appears she has had a lot of resources available not only in the records that are preserved but by listening, as far back as when she was 6 years old, to the Avery of her novel, her great grandmother! The power of grandparents! My granddaughter has a great-grandmother and I pray Joyce lives long enough for Elizabeth to get to know and appreciate her life and heritage. I am now eager to read more novels like No Longer Alone. This is a heritage worth recording as Inman has. Even have someone write it for you would be fine. I am pleased to see from the video interview mentioned above that she is considering a third novel in this series! Please, Melinda, write this third novel!

Inman has also depicted the era of Avery and Prentis in such a way that the reader is endeared to this without a feeling of detachment that it was over 100 years ago and therefore unrelatable! Sure, a lot of us would have seen movies that depict this era and later, but there seem to be more movies set in the era of WWII than WWI (as far as I have seen). This was also another hook for me as my mother was born in 1918, so she was about 20 years or so younger than Avery and Prentis. I know very little about their era and only one photo of her as a baby (I managed to get it restored) but have heard much from her and my father about their married life just before WWII. I would surely love to have known more about their lives from their childhood years in this same era as Avery and Prentis.

I won't forget this novel. It will linger. It has encouraged me to work on the spiritual heritage of my family now that I have a granddaughter and most likely many more grandchildren to come. This novel is very timely in these times before the Lord returns. May our witness be on family and to secure them heavenbound!

And now I focus on the sequel, The Shadows Come.

Highly Recommended.

[Dawn Kinzer · Rating 5 out of 5]

No Longer Alone by Melinda Viergever Inman is set in an Oklahoma farming community in 1913, and the story is based on the author’s great-grandparents’ courtship during a time when romance was simple and sweet. As Avery and Prentis grow together in their faith, they strive to please God instead of people. Avery is a teacher who does a lot of soul-searching as to how her actions affect others—whether it be flaunting a beautiful new coat or innocently leading a young man to believe she was interested when she had no feelings for him. They also deal with external conflicts, because with parts of the world at war, Prentis and Avery can’t help but wonder if the United States will also be drawn into battle. And if so, what will that mean for them?

The author did an exceptional job of transporting this reader to the early 1900s by including simple details of how people lived in farming areas. This is the perfect story for history lovers—those who wish to step back in time, if only for a moment.

I also liked the way the author showed that despite families disagreeing on which denomination of Christian faith is “right,” that two people can come from different backgrounds and find a way to overcome those differences and focus on what’s really important. And as Avery and Prentis yearned to serve God with pure hearts, their struggles also challenged me to look within. I think this couple will do the same for other readers too.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just by starting this book sounds like a great adventure waiting just for me!!
Can you just imagine riding in a car from yesterday compared to today's? Wow!! How slow!! I have always and still do want to ride in the rumble seat of an old car. I love old cars!! They're a part of history and times ever changing in our wonderful country!!
I love how the author mentions the land run of Oklahoma territory!!
I just recently read a book by Vicki McDonough about this particular subject.
Talking about changing with time?
How about a big difference with a person or people?
Take Prentice for example. 7 years can make you grow up pretty fast!!! Especially when you have to!!
Avery is my type of person. She's patient, gentle and kind. I like how she can get a message across to someone without be forceful. I also like her because she loves adventure and always loves to have fun!!
I think it was terrible in how the Indians were treated or any race.
It's because of all different nationalities that make this country up!
How rich to know your family history!!!
This book will make you want to keep turning the pages and make you think long after the pages have been turned.

[Shirley McAllister · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love, Faith, and Gods Words

This is a novel based on the author's Grandfather.. It is not a biography so parts are fiction.

The book is the story of two young people Prentice and Avery in early 1900 Oklahoma. How they grow close in their faith and marry. Their lives starting a new farm, raising animals and their first child Jack.

What is most noted in this book is their faith in God as together they study the word and grow in their faith. prentice doesn't go to church because of the conflict of religion between his parent's. His father a Catholic and his mother a Protistant. As he studies the word he makes up his own mind to attend church and to be baptized.

Through a flood, a tornado, and whispers of war their love for each other. Never falters.

This was a good book and the history of farm life during this period of the U.S. It was interesting and inspirational. I would recommend this book.

[K Herring · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melinda elegantly writes a historical love story all while reminding us that Gods plans are undeniably perfect. In hardship, loss, and joy His divine provision is a thread that binds us all, regardless of generation or race. A wonderful example of a relationship done well, No longer alone is the type of story you want readers to take note of. What more will the characters teach us in the sequel? It will be difficult to wait and find out.

[Jessica Brodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Sweet, touching, and absolutely beautiful.

[Christine Dillon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a gentle story of farming life, courtship and marriage. It would suit people who enjoyed "Little House" stories.
The best part of the story was seeing a couple who applied the Bible into their lives - a good model. It was also good to see a healthy courtship and marriage and I enjoyed the historical details.
There were several point of view glitches but most wouldn't notice them.
5 star cover.

[Joy Kidney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Based on the lives of the author's great grandparents, their courtship story is woven with details from the 1893 Land Run in Oklahoma, Cherokee history, how to start a Model-T Ford, a tornado, how to pull a calf and birth a colt, how the Great War in Europe influenced farming in the US, and even weighty matters of theology. "A farmer always lives a well-examined life," indeed.

[Karen Friday · Rating 5 out of 5]

I purchased "No Longer Alone" recently and this is definitely a page turner that captivates your heart. And I love how this novel is based on a true story, depicts a great love story, and is full of Jesus and God's Word...the greatest love story. It just doesn't get better than that. Looking forward to getting the sequel, "The Shadows Come."

[Lisa of Hopewell]

Found at http://flashlightcommentary.blogspot....

[Rorylynn Lemond · Rating 5 out of 5]

True Christian story set in Oklahoma

This is the true story of the maternal grandparents of the author. She tried to use some fictional characters to enhance the novel. It shows the problems and hardships of their time in Oklahoma. Filled with events and happenings of the time there is also quite a bit of spiritual content to the story. I found this true story to be very interesting. I received the book as a gift and all words are strictly my own.

[Sandra Bagwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

The novel is written based on the life of authors great grandparents. There is much of the book devoted to issues of a Catholic and Protestants marriage. There is Biblical quotes and discussion. It is set in the early years of Oklahoma becoming a state. Weather, farming, horse and cattle breeding during that time period are thoroughly described. It is a clean romance.

[Brian Hubacek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book!

I had a hard time putting this book down at the end. This is so well written. I am so proud of my friend Melinda!!

[Joyful · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this story and strong characters! Manhood arrived prematurely. when at the age of fifteen, Prentis lost both his father and his confidence that God loved him. Growing up fast after that day, he abandoned his education to take on the responsibility and hardship of supporting his mother and siblings. In his twenties, Avery, aSunday School teacher with a passion for learning and theology, renters his life. She is intelligent with a captivating spirit, and Prentis finds her irresistible. He’s determined to win her heart, but male competition, gossip, Avery’s unspoken fears, and the ruin of his livelihood hinder his efforts. How can Prentis win her, and how will they overcome their differences, the hard life on the plains, and a world at war?

I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Deborah McLain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this historical romance. The story of Avery and Prentis drew me. I could easily imagine what life was like back Model T cars were making their debut before WW1 Broke out. You can practically see the fields of wheat, smell the scents of harvest and hear the sounds of the ranch.
However, the one thing that made me wish I lived in that day in time was the godly homes, the respect given and expected of everyone. Families that were tightly knit together and neighbors who helped each other out as if they were family themselves.
Prentis gave Avery a high level of respect as well as honored her for her choices. The strong Biblical message that weaved its way through each chapter was both refreshing and challenging.
When I reached the epilogue, I discovered that this was not just a beautiful story, but it was an actual account of the family members of the author. I am eagerly waiting for the next book to be published.

[Gail Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I purchased "No Longer Alone" because it is based on a true story and it is historical fiction, my favorite genre.
It’s the story of two unforgettable characters, Prentis and Avery, and their struggles in pre-WWI Oklahoma. I especially enjoyed hearing Prentis's thoughts as he struggled to make a home for Avery. The sacrificial love they shared was thought-provoking while their little quirks were true to married life.
The seamlessly woven historical facts anchored me to the setting. Their romance kept me turning page after page, and their discussions of life’s issues made the relationship even more believable. A picture of her great-grandparents at the end of the book was a bonus for this reader.
I highly recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction.

[Candace West · Rating 5 out of 5]

The true love and spiritual depth of this story deeply moved me. The difficulties which Avery and Prentis battle kept me turning the pages. The characters change, mature, and grow. Their growing love for each other was a beautiful thing to watch. Their spiritual encouragement to each other, the sharing of their hearts, made me love them even more. These two challenged my spiritual growth and spurred within me a desire to draw even closer to God. I treasure this story! It's a much-needed read in today's world.

[Vivian Helton · Rating 5 out of 5]

ByVivian Heltonon July 26, 2017
What a wonderful story of God's love and grace. Prentiss and Avery were meant to be together. It was so rewarding watching Prentiss on his journey to the church and Avery's patience watching him get there. I loved the message this book shared with me. I would highly recommend this book to anyone that feels they need a little more reassurance of their own faith. It is a great story with a powerful message.