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Wave by Wave: A Memoir of Survival, Faith, and How God Works
Is there a purpose to tragedy and profound loss? Does God even care what happens to us?
On July 3, 1980, Cheryl Steele Tinsley and three of her friends were caught in a deadly “freak storm” on Lake Huron that meteorologists say only appear once every ten to twelve years. Only when the conditions are just right.
This story is filled with gripping details about how our lives are changed when we are faced with our mortality—how God speaks to us when we encounter the reality of death.
With honesty, authenticity, and a keen sense of humor about life’s many quirks, Tinsley recounts the story of that night and the incredible ways God acted in the lives of everyday people during and after the storm. She shows readers that even in the very heart of our storms, God is with us and loves us profoundly.
Read Wave by Wave and discover how God might deliver you from the storm you’re facing.
For more information about the author and her story, please visit wavebywave.net .
On July 3, 1980, Cheryl Steele Tinsley and three of her friends were caught in a deadly “freak storm” on Lake Huron that meteorologists say only appear once every ten to twelve years. Only when the conditions are just right.
This story is filled with gripping details about how our lives are changed when we are faced with our mortality—how God speaks to us when we encounter the reality of death.
With honesty, authenticity, and a keen sense of humor about life’s many quirks, Tinsley recounts the story of that night and the incredible ways God acted in the lives of everyday people during and after the storm. She shows readers that even in the very heart of our storms, God is with us and loves us profoundly.
Read Wave by Wave and discover how God might deliver you from the storm you’re facing.
For more information about the author and her story, please visit wavebywave.net .
176 pages, Paperback
Published November 30, 2022
5 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
October 3, 2023
I highly recommend this book. I have the immense privilege of knowing Cheryl Tinsley personally and of hearing her speak twice at Lake Ann Camp. Both times she spoke I have been moved to tears and encouraged in my walk with the Lord. Reading her book was no different - she is a gifted storyteller and the God’s purpose is clearly evident in her story.
Though heart wrenching to read, I can’t recommend this book enough for its ability to remind you that we are only on this earth for a short time and God has a purpose for our life if we surrender to Him!
Though heart wrenching to read, I can’t recommend this book enough for its ability to remind you that we are only on this earth for a short time and God has a purpose for our life if we surrender to Him!
February 26, 2023
Triumph in Tragedy
This true story takes the reader into the heart of a rare and deadly storm on Lake Huron, where four exceptional young people fight for their lives against the elements. Their tale is unimaginable and tragic. But it doesn't end with tragedy. You see, the storm is only half the story. What happened after the storm cell cleared is just as profound.
Told by survivor Cheryl Steele Tinsley, the tone of this book is unique. It's not a particularly polished book of prose. Rather, the natural voicing of this book feels like sitting down with Cheryl as she speaks one-on-one with you personally. It feels more like hearing this story from a friend who was there rather than reading a newspaper account. This style serves to bring the reader right into the storm and the aftermath.
This inspirational story is full of hope, wonder, trust, faith, and miracles.
This true story takes the reader into the heart of a rare and deadly storm on Lake Huron, where four exceptional young people fight for their lives against the elements. Their tale is unimaginable and tragic. But it doesn't end with tragedy. You see, the storm is only half the story. What happened after the storm cell cleared is just as profound.
Told by survivor Cheryl Steele Tinsley, the tone of this book is unique. It's not a particularly polished book of prose. Rather, the natural voicing of this book feels like sitting down with Cheryl as she speaks one-on-one with you personally. It feels more like hearing this story from a friend who was there rather than reading a newspaper account. This style serves to bring the reader right into the storm and the aftermath.
This inspirational story is full of hope, wonder, trust, faith, and miracles.
January 17, 2025
I have had heard of this tragic event years ago. When we took our girls to Lake Ann camp back in the late 80s. Reading Cheryl’s account was inspiring. Being as young as she was and staying so focused was something all parents strive for their children. Having spent time at Lk Ann camp volunteering with my husband and friend. Knowing some of the people like dad Brock and Ken and Margy Reilly. Gave me an insight also. My granddaughter and her husband worked there on staff. It is a beautiful place. But Cheryl really brought the heart of that tragic day to life. And the way she Glorified God through out the book just was beautiful. I highly recommend this book for anyone
August 4, 2025
Amazing True Story
As a parent of a teen who has attended Lake Ann camp I can speak of the amazing work God has done and is doing there. My son came home and ask me to buy him this book. I bought it and downloaded the free digital book from Kindle Unlimited. We read it together and I was moved by Cheryl’s story of survival and God’s working in her life and the many lives that have been changed.
If you are looking for a story to read about God’s amazing power grab this book. It could very well change your life and possibly save it.
God is good all the time and all the time God is good.
As a parent of a teen who has attended Lake Ann camp I can speak of the amazing work God has done and is doing there. My son came home and ask me to buy him this book. I bought it and downloaded the free digital book from Kindle Unlimited. We read it together and I was moved by Cheryl’s story of survival and God’s working in her life and the many lives that have been changed.
If you are looking for a story to read about God’s amazing power grab this book. It could very well change your life and possibly save it.
God is good all the time and all the time God is good.
December 16, 2023
What a meaningful and encouraging book! I personally knew some of the people involved in the tragedy, but many details were unknown to me after it happened (43 years ago). What a beautiful testimony you are Cheryl, of God’s Life and Miracles! Thanks for persevering, recording, gathering, partnering, and speaking/writing about all that happened! Amazing testimonies and beautifully done for God’s Glory! I highly recommend this book!
September 19, 2023
A heartbreaking story, but rather clunky as (ghost) written, in part from poor editing. I found myself wishing I could hear Tinsley share her testimony in person - I suspect it would be powerful.
July 4, 2024
Incredible true story of 4 young adults in Michigan. Having attended Lake Ann Camp myself, I enjoyed hearing this story. I highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews