The Road to Paradise

May 8, 2017
Barnett plunges readers into the dangerous beauty of 1920s Mount Rainier National Park. Chief Ranger Ashford Brayden has grown up on the mountain and is well aware of how to care for the park. He also knows the dangers that the mountain holds. Margaret Lane, the daughter of a senator, is used to the luxuries of wealth and prestige. She comes to the park to experience the beauty of nature firsthand and run away from Philip Carmichael, who wants more than she is willing to give. When Margie arrives at the park, she immediately starts challenging Ford’s worldview. Though she is unaware of it, Margie is shaking everything Ford has come to believe about the mountain and God. Philip has his sights set on marrying Margie, despite her refusal. Through underhanded dealings and outright manipulations, Philip pushes Margie and Ford together. Alone on a mountain, Margie and Ford confront the truth about their past and their faith. Barnett’s beautifully written tale unravels a broken faith and hurting heart through the refreshing embrace of the outdoors. Ford’s torn faith makes him relatable, and Barnett shines a light on the grieving and forgiving that must take place before healing can occur, making for an uplifting tale that will bolster reader’s spirit through the quiet grace of Mount Rainier.