Row Away from the Rocks

by Lisbeth Thom

Orphaned mysteriously and raised by her domineering grandmother in Wisconsin, newly married Carrie Barnes is enjoying a new life in sunny Atlanta when she receives word that Gram is dying of cancer. She puts her life on hold and returns home to care for Gram. All of her reserves of love and compassion are tested as she tries to make her grandmother’s last days as peaceful as possible while coping with pressure on her job and her marriage. A troubled relationship with a cousin adds to her difficulties. This much of Lisbeth Thom’s novel may seem familiar to many women who have struggled with the terminal illness of aging parents or grandparents, but Carrie’s story has a twist. While putting Gram’s affairs in order, she uncovers new information about the death of her parents. The resolution of this mystery allows her to forgive and changes things with cousin Jennifer, which ultimately brings her a sense of peace.

262 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2005

Reviews

[Caron Kamps Widden · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for those who find themselves as caregivers to an elderly family member. Lisbeth travels inside the mind and heart of a young wife thrown into the role of caregiver when her grandmother falls ill. The story is sentimental and heartwrenching as the main character struggles to find answers about her past before her grandmother can no longer share the truth. A lovely read and a wonderful tribute to those who open their heart and homes to someone in need.