I got to listen to this book recently on the Unabridged podcast, and what an interesting story! I love how Terry takes a setting that is somewhat familiar and turns it completely on its head—all while letting God’s grace and love shine through as only He can do.

This book, like many of her others, was quite suspenseful. I had a hard time putting it down! It’s not one of my top favorites of hers—perhaps because I was really annoyed by a couple of the characters whom I was supposed to be annoyed with—but it was still a very good story. One of my favorite parts was how the main character kept referring back to her mother’s Bible verse songs to encourage herself in the different situations she faced. And Pip. I loved that little guy.

Recommended for all Christian suspense lovers who enjoy a slight twist of romance as well. A good book overall, and worth a read, although I doubt I would ever re-read it.

Trigger warning: One of the major themes in this book is that the main character’s mother has just died, apparently by suicide. This runs throughout the book, with a few details here and there—none gruesome. ( )

What I think you should know:
Termination Dust in a contemporary novel set in rural Alaska. Kimmie , her mother and brother have been under the controlling hand of her abusive stepfather for too long, but have tried to make the best of the situation and take care of each other. When Kimmie’s mother unexpectantly commits suicide Kimmie must take the brunt of the abuse to protect brother.

What you might want to know:
Kimmie suffers horrible emotional abuse and extreme poverty at the hands of her stepfather. This book talks about her struggles and fears. She stays in the situation to keep her little brother who has autism safe.

What you touched me about this book:
Alana Terry, the author writes powerful books that capture my attention right away and keep it the whole time, this book was no exception. Kimmie has such amazing faith, even when times are beyond hard she keeps her faith in God, she trusts in Him to help her find a way to keep them safe. She she been isolated from her family and from society however she has fought to find ways to keep herself and her brother safe. She is such an inspirational character.

Who will enjoy this book just to name a few:
Fans of Suspense
Fans of Mysteries
Fans of Christian Fiction

I received a complimentary copy for this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own. ( )

Termination Dust captured my attention from the moment I began reading the book. My heart broke for Kimmie and her brother Pip. With the death of their mother and an abusive father, I knew they needed to escape. Alana Terry did an excellent job of bringing the characters and story to life.

Full of danger, mystery, and more, this book has a lot to offer readers. Kimmie demonstrated faith and dedication to keep her younger brother safe. Mystery surrounds the death of their mother and people come along to support and help them.

The one person in the story I was not sure about was Kimmie’s older sister Meg. She seems to be the unknown quantity in the story. Flirting with State Trooper Taylor Tanner, she lost my respect since Meg is married.

But all in all I enjoyed the book.

I received a copy of this book for my fair and honest review. ( )

I absolutely love how this author writes stories that are hard hitting and realistic. Domestic abuse and child abuse has been a touchy subject for years. In this story we see how horrific emotional and physical abuse really is. The characters are written with an emotional tug on the heart. I instantly connected to Kimmie and how she fiercely wanted to protect her mom and little brother. She has been through so much and her self esteem is so low that she finds herself worthless at times.

Day after day Kimmie's mom endures the terror of Chuck. He is Kimmie's step-dad and has no love for anyone or anything except beer. He is lazy and cold-hearted . Someday her mother plans to leave him, but it never happens. I cringed when I read how little food they had and how they went to bed every night scared for their lives.

It is hard to describe the anger I felt as I read the story and how I wanted to yank Chuck by his ears and throw him outside. The author does an amazing job of letting us inside a home where everyday is chaos. Kimmie's mom has done a great job instilling faith in her children and that is where her strength comes from. Kimmie is a hero to me because she didn't think of herself, but of her brother and mom.

There is a bit of violence in the story but it is only to detail the truth of domestic violence. The author does not go into graphic details, but does get her point across with words in a compassionate way. There is a tragedy in the story which heightens Kimmie's need to leave with her brother instantly.

I did enjoy how Kimmie's older sister came into the story. Kimmie has always felt abandoned by her and there is a lot of hurt and jealousy that needs to be fixed. It is always hard when you see someone having a good life when you are struggling everyday to stay alive. The author delivers an emotional journey as these two sisters try to repair their relationship.

The last part of the book is tense filled and I was on the edge of my seat as Kimmie looked death in the face. Chuck will stop at nothing to cover up his crime and Kimmie must use her faith and trust in God to protect her. I especially liked this part of the story because it gives readers a look at what faith is really like. I won't tell you anymore because I don't want to spoil the story. I loved the scripture that Kimmie repeated a lot which was " I can do all things through him who gives me strength." The author has delivered a timely story that reminds us to never give up and to trust Him with all your needs.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. ( )

Termination dust is when the first snow falls on the mountain peaks in Alaska defining the end of summer. What does this mean to you or I in our warm homes with plenty of food on the table? Not very much, I’m sure. But for those whose coats are thin, little food is available and not much warmth to be found, it can become life or death. Under those circumstances, would you believe that God has only your best in mind?

What a great way to spend an afternoon. The author has a way of describing suspenseful scenes that leave you holding your breath, wondering if the perpetrator will win this time! The tension never lets up, starting with the abusive stepfather, no food, cold - oh so cold and continues with murder, attempted murder and arson. Will Kimmie and Pip survive this horror? She is a shining example of the verse quoted in the beginning of the book. ‘All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace.’ - Isaiah 54:13 Her mother taught her very well.

I received an ARC through CelebrateLit. The five star rating was in no way solicited. The comments, impressions and opinions stated are my own. ( )