Hope in the Shadows

'Hope in the Shadows'is fictional story of enduring love and the ill-fated diagnosis of breast cancer threatening to destroy it. It is a heartwarming tale of devotion and the will to survive. Love has no boundaries, this book sharing the true meaning of "Till death us do part..."Sixteen year old Melinda Howard and her family relocate from New York City to a small farming community in Indiana where Melinda learns some of life's most difficult lessons as she travels into adulthood.Falling in love with her high school sweetheart Luke Barton, Melinda discovers the meaning of young love and the heartbreak it brings. The love affair ending shortly after graduation is rekindled some years later when Melinda returns to her home town for a brief visit. A chance encounter reawakens her love for Luke Barton with firey passion. Her sandy haired farm boy from Cedar Grove, Indiana had matured into a ruggedly handsome young man.Melinda soon realizes the spark of Luke's sultry blue eyes and alluring dimples still owned her heart.Embarking on a seemingly fairytale journey together, Luke and Melinda's lives take a dark turn. Seeking treatment for infertility Melinda learns that she is facing every woman's worst nightmare, an impending battle with breast cancer.With the love of her life at her side, Melinda faces her worthy opponent with great determination and strength. She and Luke join forces to wage war on the ominous threat against their future.But as any woman who has ever dealt with the deadly disease knows, the slithering effects of breast cancer will strive to devour not only the body, but also the heart and soul of its adversary. Leaving Melinda emotionally vulnerable her defenses weaken.Giving up on life and the will to live Melinda succumbs to the aftermath of her battle, the dark and desolate world of depression. refusing to give up, Luke's love offers a lifeline to Melinda as she struggles in a sea of emotions.'Hope in the Shadows' offers faith in the midst of despair. It offers assurance in a time of helplessness and it offers hope in the darkest of shadows.