Ghellow Road by T.H. Waters

When Theresa was born, her parents simply adored her.  She has an other brother, Mikie, and her life is pretty awesome.  But then something happens - her mom becomes sick and Grandma has to step in and help out while mom is at the hospital.  Her mother becomes sick quite frequently and has to stay in a hospital, and Theresa's dad does the best he knows how to be both a mom and dad to his children.  The kids think their dad is pretty awesome.

But when mom starts talking to demons, she goes away for a long time.  Dad can't take care of them so they have to go to a temporary foster home.  Theresa and Mikie are overjoyed when they get to go back home.  Their mom seems to be better and life is good again.  But then dad loses his job and life spirals out of control once again. 

When tragedy strikes, they move to a small town in Minnesota.  They move into a tiny house, the home of Teresa and Mikie's grandparents.  Mom gets a job but the demons still call to her.  Her disease in her mind takes it toll on the family and Mikie moves out.  Theresa tries to find a place to fit in, making new friends and trying new things.  But before long, Mom has a new boyfriend and Theresa is placed with aunts and uncles.  This goes on for years.  But Theresa is determined to survive, not matter what.

Ghellow Road is a riveting page-turner.  My heart just ached for Theresa and Mikie for their circumstance and for what their mother put them through.  Watching her navigate through the ups and downs of growing up brought back some memories but also made me sit on the edge-of-my-seat to see how Theresa would fair.  The writing draws you in and doesn't let go until the final pages.  I found myself immersed in this world and just wish I could give Theresa a big hug.  I loved this novel and highly recommend it!!