THE HOUSE MY FATHER BUILT, novel by Linda S. Clare

We like to introduce new books by writer friends to followers of our blog. We met Linda Clare at the OCW (Oregon Christian Writers) Conference several summers ago. Steve was keynote speaker and Linda taught the major class for nonfiction. We're delighted to feature her debut novel. . . .

About The Fence My Father Built:

When legally separated Muri Pond, a librarian, hauls her kids, teenage Nova and eleven year-old Truman, out to the tiny town of Murkee, Oregon, where her father, Joe Pond lived and died, she’s confronted by a neighbor’s harassment over water rights and Joe’s legacy: a fence made from old oven doors.

The fence and accompanying house trailer horrify rebellious Nova, who runs away to the drug-infested streets of Seattle. Muri searches for her daughter and for something to believe in, all the while trying to save her inheritance from the conniving neighbor who calls her dad Chief Joseph. Along with Joe’s sister, Aunt Lutie, and the Red Rock Tabernacle Ladies, Muri must rediscover the faith her alcoholic dad never abandoned in order to reclaim her own spiritual path. 

BIOGRAPHY:   

Linda S. Clare grew up in Phoenix, Arizona and taught art as well as elementary school in public and private schools. She has published four books, including her debut novel The Fence My Father Built (Abingdon Press 2009). She has won several fiction awards, teaches college writing classes and works as a mentor and editor. Her husband of thirty-two years and their four adult children, including a set of twins, live in Eugene, Oregon, along with five wayward cats, Oliver, Xena Warrior Kitty Paladine, Melchior and Mamma Mia!

Check out Linda's blog where she has lots of tips for writers: http://www.godsonggrace.blogspot.com

Other books by Linda:
Making Peace with a Dangerous God
Revealed: Spiritual Reality in a Makeover World
Lost Boys and the Moms Who Love Them

What they’re saying about The Fence My Father Built by Linda S. Clare:

 “I was so moved by the first pages that I literally cried. This is simply a story you cannot take the chance of missing.” -- Eva Marie Everson, Author of Things Left Unspoken

"With vivid descriptions and a fine sense of place, Linda Clare introduces us to a little known landscape of the high desert west."—Jane Kirkpatrick, Award-winning author of Flickering Light and All Together in One Place.

"I've been a fan of Linda Clare's writing for many years and am so thrilled to see this book finally in print! " ~ Melody Carlson, author of Dear Mom, Just Another Girl, The Other Side of Darkness, 86 Bloomberg Place, The Carter House Girls, and much more....

"Linda's fresh original writing, a captivating back drop and cast of fascinating characters make this story of colliding cultures, a dead father's honor and a daughter's bleak reality a truly compelling read." ~ Bonnie Leon, author of Enduring Love Sydney Cove Series

I was unable to put down this book.  It held my interest to the very end." —Elizabeth Bantz, Author’s Choice Reviews

“Clare’s rich and thoughtful contemporary inspirational novel vividly portrays the day to day struggles of a neglected people against poverty, substance abuse and more, while holding out the enduring hope for second chances.” ~Lynn Welch, Booklist

"Readers trying to find their way home will relate to Muri's longing for father. They'll rejoice with her when she finds faith and the Father." ~ Kim Peterson - CBA Retailers Magazine