This Is Where It Ends by Cindy K Sproles is a beautiful Christian historical novel that will wash over you like a river, cleansing you as you read, and leaving you feeling peaceful.
This is a love story, not a conventional one, but a love story nonetheless. It surrounds Minerva, a ninety four year old woman who has missed out on love her whole life. Only now, as she nears the end, does she find a love that fulfills as the arms wrap around her. This is a love that reaches beyond the pages to envelop the reader. This is a beautiful love that time will not destroy.
We also see the love of a faithful dog. He guards. He protects. He mourns.
All her life Minerva has wanted a family. We learn that “kindness, caring, love makes a family. You don’t have to be blood to be the perfect fit.” Family look out for each other.
Secrets, burdens and guilt weigh heavy. We witness a soul that has been burdened pass this heavy load onto another, so it is carried beyond the grave. The reader’s heart breaks for a character when the secrets are unearthed and she realizes that her marriage was a sham and a lie. She has never felt ‘good enough’ and this has saddened her.
There is the theme of true riches. “There ain’t a soul alive that’s found their happiness in the almighty dollar… The real prize, is found in the folks they befriend.” We see the ugliness that abounds in those who chase after money, in comparison with those who realise true riches are found in beating hearts. The legacies that we leave behind are so much more than gold. Our legacies are our love. We need to distinguish between what is temporal and what is eternal. “Finally letting go of what is temporal and reachin for what was eternal.” Reach for the arms of God. “Is it too late to believe in eternity?” No. While we are still breathing, there is still time to choose God.
A character is so in tune with God that prayers are as easy as breathing. Her prayers are out loud conversations with God. “I learned years ago to listen when the Almighty nudged.”
A character longs for the Lord to take her home – but while there is still breath in our bodies, there may still be things for us to do here on earth.
This is a serenely beautiful book. All the action is seen through the eyes of ninety four year old Minerva in 1902. It is written in the first person. Cindy K Sproles ‘shows’ us the landscape with her words, and she shows us the good heart of Minerva. I never wanted this book to end – but as with all good things, it did come to an end. I now feel lost without Minerva, who feels more like a dear friend than a character in a book.
This Is Where It Ends is stunningly and serenely beautiful.
I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

Very interesting read! The book pulled me in from the start and I wanted to see how it ended. Try it and see if this book is for you!

This Is Where It Ends by Cindy K. Sproles is an intriguing novel. The author does an excellent job evoking time and place with distinctive mountain dialogue. The book also deals with serious issues like keeping deep secrets and how long you do. It was an interesting read overall. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

The life of Minera Jenkins, who wed at age 14 or 15 and moved to a remote area of the Appalachian mountains, is told in this story set in 1904 at her homestead. She has been widowed for 30 years and is keeping a secret for her deceased husband, Stately. Isolated by geography and somewhat by choice, Minera has led a lonely life, especially after he passed. She is in her early 90s when the story opens and a journalist from the big city of Lexington, KY arrives to her property. Full of grit, Minera threatens the writer, Del Rankins, to protect herself. Del perseveres and works his way into Minera's life through the course of the summer. That secret, though, she is holding for Stately brings danger to her home. The Appalachian mountain folk are resilient, resourceful, and somewhat suspicious of outsiders. They survive on the basics and work hard to make a life.

I was a bit hesitant to start this book. I was in the midst of some overwhelming things and I didn't think that I wanted a book that appeared to be a bit on the somber side. Thankfully I was completely wrong about the tone of the book.

Minerva Jane Jenkins is a 94 year old woman with one foot in the grave. But that other foot of hers is still walking down life's path. A bit slower than earlier years, but she's still movin'. I completely fell in love with Minerva. In my head she has my grandma's voice which made the story even better.

Minerva is feisty and puts up with very little. She's spent the last 30 plus years as a widow and has done a pretty good job of keeping the farm going. When Del Rankin shows up asking questions about the past, Minerva's isolated world is upended.

The story is about a woman at the end of her life so death is a topic. But it is definitely in context to a life well lived. We are privy to her regrets and long lost dreams. There's also the mystery of the box of gold that has been the source of so much loss. All of these things put together made for a deeply moving story.

I would classify this as one of my top ten reads of the year. Cindy Sproles is a new author to me but you can bet that I will be on the lookout for more from her.

This is Where It Ends is a wonderful historical fiction novel that takes you to the back hills of Kentucky and holds you hostage. I loved getting to meet Minerva Jane. She’s quite the character. From getting married at 14 to moving away from her family to strange men coming to meet her as she’s in her last year.

Minerva Jane is strong. But she’s spent way too much time alone and she takes a bit to get used to having company again. Once she lets one person in she finds herself letting more and more people into her inner circle. I found myself wanting to meet Minerva myself or have a person like her in my life. She’s got some wisdom she’s gained over her many years.

BUT DOES SHE HAVE GOLD LIKE THE YOUNG MEN THINK?
One young man just wants the truth, he’s not interested in getting rich with gold. But the other young man you’ll have to read to find out what he wants.

I loved getting to meet all of the characters. They were all so well done. I can’t say that I loved them all because I did not. There is one that I wanted to throttle for how he treated Minerva and one I wanted to give a swift kick and throw in jail. Oh and the one “hussy” that you just wanted to have a chat with. The rest were all good and gentle.

The storyline was amazing. I could not have loved it more. Minerva Jane is now definitely one of my top characters of all time. From my years of working in nursing homes, I can say that the descriptions of aging and dying were spot on. If you’re squeamish about small violence and victimizing the elderly you might not love this book but the good outweighed the bad for me.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

If you want a light, easy, beach read, this is not the book for you. If you want to smile with nostalgia while simultaneously crying ugly tears, pick this book up.

Minerva reminds me so much of my Mamaw (yes, even though there's a "my" before it, Mamaw absolutely needs to be capitalized; she was that kind of woman), who we lost last year. Mamaw wasn't from Appalachia, but Minerva IS Mamaw: stubborn, hard of sight but not of hearing, a fantastic sense of humor, and outspoken. To say this book is a difficult read for me is an understatement. But this isn't about me...

Cindy K. Sproles doesn't write romance, so if that's what you're seeking, keep looking. She writes stories from Appalachia that have heart, meaning, and weightiness.

I'm crying too hard right now to write anything else coherent. If you want your heart to be touched, read this book.

~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~

This story did not deliver on that intriguing blurb. (I am going against the tide on this one.)

Where to start?

I wanted to like Minerva Jenkins, but she mostly succeeded in getting on my nerves, always clutching at her heart and praying for the Good Lord to come fetch her, only to live another day and aggravate me all over again. After any great trial or tribulation, she would say it was God's will and that we were meant to learn from all that grief or trouble, or that He had a different plan for us, etc. etc. (I wasn't buying this yo-yoing faith of Minerva's, sorry!)

So many "time bombs" were exploded in this novel. When, at one point, Minerva used the idiom "that was not Kosher" I literally had to stop, go back to the beginning, and check the dates and timelines. There were so many gaffes like this one.

There was just so much <i>wrong</i> about this story and these lackluster characters.

My biggest beef: how many times does a near-blind, Rheumatic 90-year old lady have to be manhandled, knocked down, burnt out of her house, etc., before she gives up the ghost?

And those long, constant debates about whether she would keep THE SECRET (which turned out to be incredibly anti-climactic, I must say!)... I began go groan aloud whenever I saw her heading back into one of those repetitive inner monologues.

Obviously, I did not enjoy slogging through this story. I stuck with it because I wanted to know THE SECRET. I suspected many times that even the author didn't know what the secret was for most of this story, because the final chapters went in a completely different direction with that not so surprising "surprise twist." My level of irritation with the "he loves me, he loves me not" inner dialogues ran a close second to the constant "should I keep this secret and why" debate.

It was a relief to flip the last page of this repetitive, uninspiring and <i> unthrilling</i> thriller. This author can write a decent sentence, but will I be seeking out her other works? If they are anything like this rambling, hodgepodge, stuck-together-with-tape-and-glue story, then most definitely not.

I was granted an ARC of this novel by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. My rating - and I am being NICE here - is a 2.6 rounded up to a 3.

It’s been a while since I have read such as intriguing book set in the Appalachian mountains. This is a new to me author and I thoroughly enjoyed her book. I have since added another one of her books to my TBR pile and am looking forward to that one too.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All words are my own.

This is Where is Ends was an interesting book combining down old time charm, a pinch of mystery, and the sense of finding a family all rolled into one. The main character, Minerva, is approached by a journalist who claims that her husband stole and hid a box of gold somewhere on their very simple homestead. And thus begins an intriguing, sometimes heartbreaking story as Minerva recounts her life with her husband in pieces while befriending this young man who has claimed she has unclaimed wealth.

I loved the voice of the narrator that was so unique! You, as the reader, really feel as if you have stumbled into the back woods of Appalachia and are glimpsing the vernacular of days long since passed. The ending was surprising but not shocking and while I was thinking there would be a dramatic reveal, the slow ending of the book didn't necessarily leave me disappointed as a reader.

But my FAVORITE part of the book was Cindy K. Sproles' heartfelt plea in her Author's Note where she implored the reader to treasure (and TALK to) the older generation because one day they, along with all of their experiences and contributions will be gone. THAT was what struck a chord with me immediately following her novel and was the real 'perfect' ending to her book.

This is a review for This is Where it Ends by Cindy Sproles. Very rarely does a book touch my heart like this one did! If I could rate it 100 stars out of 100, I would because it was so good!! It was one of the best books I have ever read, and I sometimes skim read some books as to finish them early, and skipping parts that I feel aren't important. Well, this book I read every word because it completely held my attention. I laughed, I cried, I felt the raw emotion of Miss Minerva, and like I said, my heart was so touched. This book was like a ray of sunshine, even though Minerva went thru some hard things, and made me so grateful for the elderly saints in my life who have loved me, and taught me to become the woman of God that I am! In my opinion, we have lost our respect for the elderly in our nation, and this book reminds us of the treasures that our elderly are!!! At the end of the review I will include a powerful message from the author.

This story is set in the Appalachian mountains in early 1900s, and it tells the story of a sweet but a bit cantankerous old woman named Minerva Jenkins, age 94, whose husband, Stately Jenkins, dragged her up the the mountain when she was only 14 and he 17, and made her keep a secret that may involve stolen gold, and that she promised to take to the grave. Well, Stately ends up dying 30 years before the story begins after many years of marriage, and Minerva, continuing to hold onto that secret, begs the good Lord not to let her die alone, and He answers that prayer by bringing her a stranger who eventually becomes very dear to her.

Delano Rankin is a newspaper writer, and he gets wind of an interesting story, and heads up to the Appalachian mountains, and ends up on Miss Minerva's doorstep. Minerva thinks he is there to find the stolen gold, and at first she is very hesitant to even let him through the door. Del, who is a kind-hearted man, came to the mountain for a story, but not about the gold, and ends up takes a shine to Miss Minerva. Del decides to stay around to help this old lady he met because she has been alone since Stately died, and he just wants to help her out. He was raised right, as Miss Minerva says, and together they both realize that even the story brought him to her door ended up including them both, and through that story, the Good Lord had much more in store for them both, including a relationship they both were hungering for, but that only comes with time and trust.

This story was so funny at times, watching Del and Minerva learn to trust each other, but also we see into the heart and mind of Minerva, who is 94 years old and on death's door, open up her heart to things she would've liked to have left alone, but God wanted exposed, and in the process brought such love and grace to her in such a beautiful way through Del's coming and caring. I also cried at times during that process, but just had to keep reading because I had to know what happened. I don't call stories beautiful very often, but this story was beautifully written, the characters were incredible, and the plot was amazing! So I highly recommend you read this book. 5 zillion out of 5 stars is my rating!!! I loved this book!!!!

2.5 stars, rounded up to 3.

I may pick up/finish this read later down the line, but for now, a DNF. It moves very slowly, and I found the inconsistently applied vernacular--especially for the MC, Minerva--really distracting.

With so many other books on my TBR list, I'm setting it aside.

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

It’s all about the gold, it seems, in the latest release from Cindy K. Sproles. This Is Where It Ends opens with the death of Stately Jenkins, leaving his wife Minerva to fend of herself on their secluded homestead in the mountains of Kentucky. With his last breath, he begs her to keep his secret. Thus begins the ending.

When young Delano Rankin shows up thirty years later, searching for answers to the question of gold hidden away on the property, Minerva is nearing the end of her life and has no time for the darkness dredged up from the past by his investigation. She is forced to deal, not only with this nosy newcomer, but with the pain and suffering of her many years secluded on her homestead. While the quest for gold is a key plot point, the search for treasure beyond riches is the real story for the inquisitive young journalist and the broken old woman. Sproles pens intrigue and truth together to write a beautiful, though heartbreaking, novel about where true treasure is found. She gives us well developed characters, some of whom will live on in our minds long after the story ends.

Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me a copy to read and review. All opinions expressed here are my own and are completely genuine.

Different read from my others but great non the less. The plot was missing something which makes me give it a 4 instead of 5 star. But I still recommend this

This is a deeply emotional and heart wrenching story. It definitely has layer after layer that has to be peeled back. Minerva is such a character, she made me laugh out loud at moments and had me wondering how long a person could actually keep a secret. Her love for the Lord definitely was a theme throughout the book.

I loved the setting of the mountain in all of its beauty. The secrets were definitely a doozy and what a curve ball. The growing relationship between Del and Minerva was so sweet and heartwarming. This is Where it Ends gives a whole new perspective to getting older. I received a copy of this book for free; all though and opinions are my own.

The story opens on Shoal Mountain in Kentucky in 1872. Stately Jenkins, Minerva's husband of fifty years, has just died, but just before he died, he made her promise to keep the secret. The story jumps to 1902 and Minerva is now 94 years old. She has had almost no contact with other people for 30 years, so it is a big surprise when Delano Rankin shows up at her cabin. He tells her he is a reporter who is following a story. Part of this is true.
Minerva is a fascinating protagonist. She is outspoken, independent and very aware her time on earth is coming to an end. Even though Minerva doesn't initially welcome Delano's presence, her life begins to change because of it. What follows is what Minerva finally faces after 80 years. What is the secret that her husband was so desperate for her to keep and why did she promise to do so? She has always known that there was something missing from their marriage but blamed herself. After deep soul searching and introspection she searches for answers. Why did she shut others out for so many years? So many questions and perhaps not much time to find answers.
The author has crafted a moving and absorbing story that embraces the power of second chances and the strength that can come from the family one makes. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I wanted to cry a thousand times reading this. Whew! Sadness, anger, betrayal, old age and God’s love and grace are the things that tore me open. This was a bittersweet novel with layered riveting characters that told a realistic story had me speechless. I had to stop several times and try to contain my tears. The story was sad, gentle and touching all at the same time. Totally worth reading.
The gentle way this was written and delivered has made this a forever favorite author. There is simply no word’s coming from me that can give this the praise it deserves.
I’m never going to forget this story and look forward to the next one.
Thanks Revell via NetGalley.

Award winning author Cindy K Sproles has written a hard to put down Christian historical novel titled “This is Where It Ends” that grabbed my attention from page one. There is a mystery from the beginning that begs to be solved. I was absolutely mesmerized.

Set in the mountains of Kentucky’s Appalachia in 1902, this is the story of 94-year-old, Minerva Jane Jenkins’ life. The tale starts with the death of her husband, Stately, thirty years earlier. It is heart-wrenching to read how lost and alone she is without her husband of five decades. Minerva survives though, as most women of the South always do.

The author has done an exception job with this novel. It is obvious she did a lot of research about the era and location. I felt like I was transported back in time to the hills of Kentucky. The conversations were authentic. Descriptions were on point. Minerva was feisty and sassy. She kept me entertained with her antics. My heart hurt for her many times. It gave me all of the feels. Characters were expertly crafted. They were realistic and relatable. I loved that there was a trusty hound in the book.

Delano Rankin, Del, a young reporter from Lexington, unexpectedly shows up at Minerva’s run-down cabin to ask her about gold that is rumored to be buried on her property. She does not take too kindly to a city boy coming to her home and chases home off. He will not be dissuaded from his task, and returns. I loved watching their relationship develop. It was very believable and natural.

I highly recommend this emotional book that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it. It is a tale of faith, promises, hope, forgiveness, and love. There is much to learn within its pages. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Revell, but these are my honest words.

What. A. Book. !!! This is one of those very special, but also very rare, gems.
Don’t be fooled by it’s only appearing to be a short tome : it is not to be read quickly. It has such depth to it, & all the more profound for being imparted in an authentic Appalachian-mountain-dweller’s voice. (It read as being completely natural, never contrived.) It may be only on finishing the book, & then pondering, that you begin to realise how much you have learned. Loneliness can be of our own making. Sometimes we need to forgive, for our own sake rather than the offender’s – it is a release, setting ourselves free. ‘Family’ are not necessarily blood-related.
I found it very moving, to be reading about someone’s impending death from within their own mind. The author must be a very loving person, to have the empathy shown here. And I totally agree that we need to be learning from our elderly – taking the time to listen to their stories, before so much is forgotten.
I will certainly be looking out more books by this writer. Highly recommended!

The synopsis of this story really caught my eye. First off, why was a fourteen old getting married? Well, this was a different time and so begins the married life of Minerva. Her husband Stately moves her up to a mountain and he has a box that is most precious to him. He continues to want her to keep this box and its secret even with his dying breath. Minerva promises, even though she doesn't know what this box holds and maybe she doesn't want to know.

This is a story of a woman who now is ninety-four years old still doing what her husband asked her to do beyond the grave. The story mainly takes place thirty years after his death. Minerva certainly loved her husband and showed him faithfulness and loyalty even after his death. But did he deserve it? I don't want to spoil this story for you as the answers are revealed when Minerva gets an interesting visitor who wants to know her story. A young reporter by the name of Del. Not ever having been blessed with children of her own, Del becomes to her like a grandson.

A heartwarming and at times heartbreaking story of a unique friendship that develops from a persistent young person and an older person who is gold herself, and the ties that bind them.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.