The River by Michael Neale

From Amazon - Gabriel Clarke is mysteriously drawn to The River, a ribbon of frothy white water carving its way through steep canyons high in the Colorado Rockies. The rushing waters beckon him to experience freedom and adventure.

But something holds him back—the memory of the terrible event he witnessed on The River when he was just five years old—something no child should ever see.

Chains of fear and resentment imprison Gabriel, keeping him from discovering the treasures of The River. He remains trapped, afraid to take hold of the life awaiting him.

When he returns to The River after years away, his heart knows he is finally home. His destiny is within reach. Claiming that destiny will be the hardest—and bravest—thing he has ever done.

When Gabriel was a young boy, a horrific experience happened at The River.  He watched his father drown trying to save another.  He and his mother move, but Gabriel can't get The River out of his head.  He's angry, resentful and sad.  He turns within himself, only speaking with a friend and his mom and teachers.

As he grows up, the experience never leaves his head.  So when his friend implores him to go to The River for camping, Gabriel finally relents.  There, he finds pleasure and meets someone new.  He finds happiness, but can he forgive the man who lived, whom his dad died saving? 

A book about forgiveness and healing, The River is a beautiful read that I hated to see end;  I was so caught up in Gabriel's life. There isn't a large overtone of God in the book, it's more of a subliminal message - one the reader can make for himself.  Chock-full of emotion, descriptive writing and memorable characters, namely Gabriel, The River is a highly recommended read.  And the cover/binding of the paperback I read was unexpected - it's spectacular!

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.