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Still With Us
Worthless. That’s how Ella feels every time she wakes up. But when meth jolts through her veins, the ugly voice that tells her she isn’t enough goes quiet. She thinks she has the energy she wants and she struggles to break free from the draw the drugs have on her.
Torn between blaming herself and her ex-husband, Tammy desperately wants to find a way to get her daughter away from drugs and the abusive men preying on her. But nothing Tammy says seems to make a difference with Ella. Will she be able to reach her daughter before it’s too late?
Warning: This book deals with drugs and abuse and may be triggering to some readers.
Torn between blaming herself and her ex-husband, Tammy desperately wants to find a way to get her daughter away from drugs and the abusive men preying on her. But nothing Tammy says seems to make a difference with Ella. Will she be able to reach her daughter before it’s too late?
Warning: This book deals with drugs and abuse and may be triggering to some readers.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2021
6 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Regina Walker
28 books177 followersRegina Walker, the spirited author with a passion for penning captivating tales, finds her inspiration in the enchanting fusion of Jesus and horses. As she roams the great outdoors, her heart sings in harmony with nature's melodies, as the Holy Spirit whispers secrets to fuel her vibrant storytelling.
With an unwavering devotion to her craft, Regina fearlessly confronts life's toughest trials through the journeys of her compelling characters. Guided by her unwavering faith, she fearlessly weaves narratives that illuminate the path to redemption and resilience.
Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Colorado, Regina embarked on a transformative journey, eventually finding solace amidst the vast plains of Oklahoma. When not engrossed in the art of storytelling, she shares cozy moments with her hard-working husband, unraveling the mysteries of crime shows from the comfort of their couch.
The rhythmic gallop of horses echoes through Regina's veins, infusing her words with the untamed spirit of these majestic creatures. Whether she's lost in the realm of imagination or immersed in the day-to-day adventures of their small hobby farm, her dedication to nurturing her children and tending to her equine companions paints a vivid backdrop to her extraordinary life.
Embrace Regina Walker's words as they transport you to worlds where faith intertwines with every aspect of life, reminding us all that even amidst life's storms, there is always a glimmer of hope.
With an unwavering devotion to her craft, Regina fearlessly confronts life's toughest trials through the journeys of her compelling characters. Guided by her unwavering faith, she fearlessly weaves narratives that illuminate the path to redemption and resilience.
Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Colorado, Regina embarked on a transformative journey, eventually finding solace amidst the vast plains of Oklahoma. When not engrossed in the art of storytelling, she shares cozy moments with her hard-working husband, unraveling the mysteries of crime shows from the comfort of their couch.
The rhythmic gallop of horses echoes through Regina's veins, infusing her words with the untamed spirit of these majestic creatures. Whether she's lost in the realm of imagination or immersed in the day-to-day adventures of their small hobby farm, her dedication to nurturing her children and tending to her equine companions paints a vivid backdrop to her extraordinary life.
Embrace Regina Walker's words as they transport you to worlds where faith intertwines with every aspect of life, reminding us all that even amidst life's storms, there is always a glimmer of hope.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
December 28, 2020
Once again, Regina Walker blends her love of horses (and considerable knowledge about them) with her compassionate understanding of human nature, to create a story of hope and healing.
Still With Us is the story of Ella, a young girl whose pain and fear of rejection has driven her to drugs and dangerous friends. A tragic but not uncommon story, unfortunately, but Regina Walker has handled it wisely, with a great deal of compassion. Despite Ella’s problems and prickly exterior, she was a sweet and appealing character, and I really enjoyed her story, particularly her budding relationship with Tyler (returning readers will remember Cody’s brother from the first book.)
This story took a little longer to get into than the first one in the series. I think that was because it began in the point of view of Ella’s mother, Tammy. The writing felt a bit forced and emotionally distant, as if the author was just getting warmed up. As soon as we enter Ella’s point of view, the story seems to achieve its rhythm, and is a smooth and enjoyable read to the end, with the exception of the few times we jump into other points of view.
I had hoped to read another book by this fine author, so was delighted when I got the opportunity, in the form of an ARC from Booksprout.
Still With Us is the story of Ella, a young girl whose pain and fear of rejection has driven her to drugs and dangerous friends. A tragic but not uncommon story, unfortunately, but Regina Walker has handled it wisely, with a great deal of compassion. Despite Ella’s problems and prickly exterior, she was a sweet and appealing character, and I really enjoyed her story, particularly her budding relationship with Tyler (returning readers will remember Cody’s brother from the first book.)
This story took a little longer to get into than the first one in the series. I think that was because it began in the point of view of Ella’s mother, Tammy. The writing felt a bit forced and emotionally distant, as if the author was just getting warmed up. As soon as we enter Ella’s point of view, the story seems to achieve its rhythm, and is a smooth and enjoyable read to the end, with the exception of the few times we jump into other points of view.
I had hoped to read another book by this fine author, so was delighted when I got the opportunity, in the form of an ARC from Booksprout.
March 27, 2021
Ok friends, I'm not going to beat around the bush with this review. While this is a powerful read, it's also extremely edgy for Christian Fiction. We Christians tend to like the fluff of our genre's selections. Still With Us doesn't have fluff.
I will warn you, there's one chapter that will make you uncomfortable if you're not used to the rawness of the world and in your reading. What I appreciate about Regina's writing is that she's blunt and honestly writes like she has experience with the content. I was able to tell my husband that from my past experience she either has dealt with this in the past or has close people in her life who have. That, of course, makes this story even stronger. I could be way off base and she's just read book, too. hahahaha
Anyhow, Ella. The central character of this story is dealing with a LOT! We meet her as she's coming out of the hospital from being on a suicide watch after taking too much drugs. This 16 year old girl is a hot mess. It was SO difficult to read her story because I know it's just all too common. Her anger, her lack of self worth, her world is so off kilter that the drugs she's been taking numb it all.
All too often drugs come with a high price that most people wouldn't normally be willing to pay, but an addict does what they "need" to do for that next high. Unfortunately, it's to her detriment. The abuse she suffers, in more ways than one, crushed my heart. As a reader, you will want to skip those pages because it's so painful to read for many reasons, but please don't. There are too many of us who live in houses with white picket fences and stick our heads in the ground so we can avoid the reality of world around us.
My two cents is this. If you have never been personally affected by someone addicted to drugs or know much about what people go through when loving someone who is addicted, this book is just what you need. It's raw. It's base, but it's SO necessary because in our Christian world, we need to know what's going on. How those who don't know Jesus and are suffering need us to be compassionate and loving, especially when we don't understand what they're going through.
And yes, the Lord is a huge part of this story. Liz from We Go On, her husband, and son play an integral part of Tammy and Ella's lives. Tammy's ex and his wife make me want to go on a tirade. They're sorry excuses for humans in my estimation. Trust me, when you read this you're going to want to pop both of them in the mouth like I did. hahaha I was more like Liz's husband when it came to Tyler getting involved with Ella. I was very guarded to say the least. I mean, we have to remember, she's still 16 and an active addict.
I loved how once again the horses in the story play an integral part of all their lives. I know that during some of my darkest days my horse, Winston, was a comfort to me.
Now, there is one thing that did irk me about the story. There's one situation where honestly, Ella should've been tested for drugs and arrested. The fact that she only ever had close calls with police really bothered me, especially with the last incident. I think with everything that surrounded the incident, a drug test definitely would've been done and she'd have had a huge price to pay. As it was, there was no legal reckoning and I was disappointed in that.
Take a chance on this book. I believe that in the end you'll have a better understanding of addicts, especially young ones. Book three of this series will be coming out next month and it's going to be another tough topic. Going to have to hunker down to read that one, too. Oh, and by the way, I read Still With Us in about 4 hours. It sucked me in and wouldn't realize me until the last page.
*I received this book for review. This is my personal opinion.
I will warn you, there's one chapter that will make you uncomfortable if you're not used to the rawness of the world and in your reading. What I appreciate about Regina's writing is that she's blunt and honestly writes like she has experience with the content. I was able to tell my husband that from my past experience she either has dealt with this in the past or has close people in her life who have. That, of course, makes this story even stronger. I could be way off base and she's just read book, too. hahahaha
Anyhow, Ella. The central character of this story is dealing with a LOT! We meet her as she's coming out of the hospital from being on a suicide watch after taking too much drugs. This 16 year old girl is a hot mess. It was SO difficult to read her story because I know it's just all too common. Her anger, her lack of self worth, her world is so off kilter that the drugs she's been taking numb it all.
All too often drugs come with a high price that most people wouldn't normally be willing to pay, but an addict does what they "need" to do for that next high. Unfortunately, it's to her detriment. The abuse she suffers, in more ways than one, crushed my heart. As a reader, you will want to skip those pages because it's so painful to read for many reasons, but please don't. There are too many of us who live in houses with white picket fences and stick our heads in the ground so we can avoid the reality of world around us.
My two cents is this. If you have never been personally affected by someone addicted to drugs or know much about what people go through when loving someone who is addicted, this book is just what you need. It's raw. It's base, but it's SO necessary because in our Christian world, we need to know what's going on. How those who don't know Jesus and are suffering need us to be compassionate and loving, especially when we don't understand what they're going through.
And yes, the Lord is a huge part of this story. Liz from We Go On, her husband, and son play an integral part of Tammy and Ella's lives. Tammy's ex and his wife make me want to go on a tirade. They're sorry excuses for humans in my estimation. Trust me, when you read this you're going to want to pop both of them in the mouth like I did. hahaha I was more like Liz's husband when it came to Tyler getting involved with Ella. I was very guarded to say the least. I mean, we have to remember, she's still 16 and an active addict.
I loved how once again the horses in the story play an integral part of all their lives. I know that during some of my darkest days my horse, Winston, was a comfort to me.
Now, there is one thing that did irk me about the story. There's one situation where honestly, Ella should've been tested for drugs and arrested. The fact that she only ever had close calls with police really bothered me, especially with the last incident. I think with everything that surrounded the incident, a drug test definitely would've been done and she'd have had a huge price to pay. As it was, there was no legal reckoning and I was disappointed in that.
Take a chance on this book. I believe that in the end you'll have a better understanding of addicts, especially young ones. Book three of this series will be coming out next month and it's going to be another tough topic. Going to have to hunker down to read that one, too. Oh, and by the way, I read Still With Us in about 4 hours. It sucked me in and wouldn't realize me until the last page.
*I received this book for review. This is my personal opinion.
June 21, 2021
Just as with the first in the series, Still With Us tugs at the heartstrings, especially about 3/4 way in! Water. Works. That's all I'm going to say. I love how Ms. Walker writes. It's as though I'm there with the characters, and I can't wait to read more of her books as they come out. Hopefully we will see a Ella and Tyler story . . . :) This is a must read series! Yes, they deal with hard topics, but they do them in a beautiful way full of kindness and compassion.
August 2, 2021
Still with us is just as good if not better than the first book in this collection. I loved We go on and finished it in two days. But I finished Still with us in just one day. I was happy to get more time with The Miller family. And Ellas struggles we’re definitely something I have been around for before. Drug addiction is no joke and Walker captures it so well. I cannot wait to read more of this collection.
May 6, 2021
Addiction is not something I have first hand knowledge of but I still resonated with the feelings of Ella at many points in this novel. An addictive read, I sped through the story and have reread it since. Tough topics and God are spoken of together in the pages, and the writing style weaves it all perfectly.
April 1, 2021
Teenaged, hurting Ella seems to be hell-bent on her destruction, as she delves deeper into the world of drugs. Battling sexual and physical abuse and addiction, Ella feels trapped and looks for a way out.
Her mother, Tammy, struggles with how to help Ella. Liz, Tammy’s friend, offers guidance, and the healing therapy of working with horses provides both Ella and Tammy the inspiration and strength to keep trying.
Tyler, a friend, and Ella bond over the horses, but will Tyler be there to lend a helping hand when Ella needs it most? Will Ella overcome her addictions and turn to Someone who can fully heal her?
A tell it like it is story, Still With Us portrays a realistic picture of addiction and abuse and through faith lays a pathway to redemption. Walker excels at dialogue and crafting characters real enough to walk off the pages. You’ll share their pain and victories in this inspiring story of hope, in rising above the things that can keep us bound.
Readers of edgier Christian contemporary fiction and coming of age fiction will enjoy this faith-based and honest novel.
Her mother, Tammy, struggles with how to help Ella. Liz, Tammy’s friend, offers guidance, and the healing therapy of working with horses provides both Ella and Tammy the inspiration and strength to keep trying.
Tyler, a friend, and Ella bond over the horses, but will Tyler be there to lend a helping hand when Ella needs it most? Will Ella overcome her addictions and turn to Someone who can fully heal her?
A tell it like it is story, Still With Us portrays a realistic picture of addiction and abuse and through faith lays a pathway to redemption. Walker excels at dialogue and crafting characters real enough to walk off the pages. You’ll share their pain and victories in this inspiring story of hope, in rising above the things that can keep us bound.
Readers of edgier Christian contemporary fiction and coming of age fiction will enjoy this faith-based and honest novel.
January 2, 2021
This is the 1st book I've read written by Regina Walker; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
May 17, 2025
Wow! Tough but good read
Regina handles the subject of drug
addiction in a realistic, forthright
manner; yet also is sensitive to the impact this terrible hold has on the abuser, family and friends!
Educational and felt I learned from someone who has researched this and is graciously sharing; an ‘eye opener’ and much to ponder!
Regina handles the subject of drug
addiction in a realistic, forthright
manner; yet also is sensitive to the impact this terrible hold has on the abuser, family and friends!
Educational and felt I learned from someone who has researched this and is graciously sharing; an ‘eye opener’ and much to ponder!
December 31, 2020
This is a well written book that is full of emotions. The author tackled a tough subject in this book and handled it beautifully. This book made me laugh, cry and feel every emotion in between.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2021
This story will take you an emotional rollercoaster ride for sure! I found myself unable to stop reading it one go....it is a beautiful story on its own, but an amazing book two as we get to see the characters from book one as they continue healing as well.
With God all things are possible!!
With God all things are possible!!
December 30, 2020
Such a gentle and straightforward approach to this topic. I couldn’t put the book down. Tough but great read.
January 19, 2022
Excellent story
This is the 2nd published book of Mrs. Walker that I have purchased. I enjoy her writing very much! Following these families lives through extremely difficult challenges and yet finding their own path to Jesus is inspirational.
This is the 2nd published book of Mrs. Walker that I have purchased. I enjoy her writing very much! Following these families lives through extremely difficult challenges and yet finding their own path to Jesus is inspirational.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews