The Persistent Road
by Tim Bishop
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Pub Date Jun 20 2023 | Archive Date Jun 25 2023
Open Road Press | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles
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Description
Finalist in Christian Fiction, 2023 Next Generation Indie Book Awards
Finalist in Inspirational Fiction, 2023 Next Generation Indie Book Awards
After losing all he once cherished, Doug Zimmer follows his wife’s parting bread crumbs and rides up the Pacific coast—on a bicycle. Armed with a revolver and only a vague plan to get through the months ahead, he aims to end his depression one way or the other.
As spiritual forces wrangle for his soul, he pedals eastward across America. He meets Lauren Baumgartner—a younger adventurer with a vibrant spirit—and a band of zealots who confront his aversion to religion. Accompanying Doug are not only sunny days and the beauty of nature but also the perils of the road, fellow travelers with their own stories, and the hollow silence of solitary campsites playing host to unseen creatures of the night.
A jarring episode on a climb through a treacherous pass brings Doug face-to-face with life and death. Will Doug’s adventure deliver him from loneliness and lament . . . or hurtle him to an abrupt end?
A Note From the Publisher
audiobook: 9798986012520
$9.99 for e-book
eBook: 9798986012513
audiobook: 9798986012520
$9.99 for e-book
Advance Praise
“The Persistent Road is a beautifully written story of tragedy and triumph. It’s a simple, straightforward narrative of the complicated nature of love, loss, and faith. In a way the novel reminds me of the iconic television series, The Fugitive, but rather than a journey to prove innocence, the lead in Tim Bishop's book is searching for self-worth and reasons to live. Prompted by the wishes of his late wife, the people who come into Doug Zimmer’s life make the road he travels fascinating and meaningful for readers. This is a journey well worth taking.”
—ACE COLLINS, Christy Winning Author
“Tim Bishop's The Persistent Road will draw you in and keep you turning the pages and telling yourself, ‘just one more chapter’ until the very end. It's a book I'll read again and again.”
—PATRICIA BRADLEY, author of Counter Attack
“A convincing story of how even the hardest of hearts isn’t hopeless. Expect a wonderful but intense journey on two wheels, one that is both difficult and freeing. Great book!”
—BETH PATCH, senior editor/producer for CBN.com
“The Persistent Road is an enjoyable and unexpected story that tackles tough spiritual questions. The characters felt authentic and down-to-earth even while doing things I could only dream of. If you enjoy engaging, faith-based stories that take you on a journey, this book is a good choice.”
—KATIE POWNER, author of Where the Blue Sky Begins
“The Persistent Road is a beautifully written story of how Doug Zimmer navigates a roadway of suffering, escape, and hardheaded resistance toward an unfamiliar destination of hope. A compelling page-turner.”
—KEN VANDERPOOL, author of The Music City Murders
“Tim Bishop’s love of real-life bicycle adventures shines true in this faith-based fictional tale of a man who’s hit bottom in more ways than one and needs a miracle to save not only his own life, but that of a man he’s just met. Persistence goes both ways for Douglas and the Lord of life who stands knocking at every turn in this heart-pounding ride.”
—LISA LICKEL, author of UnderStory and UnderCut
“Written with immersive descriptions and deep reflection, The Persistent Road takes readers on a journey through the marvels and wiles of both nature and the human condition. In a world that isolates and discourages vulnerability, it’s a book that makes us all feel a little less alone. More than a novel, it’s hope on paper.”
—KATIE SHANDS, author of the award-winning Finding Franklin
“In The Persistent Road, Tim Bishop masterfully chronicles the journey of a man who undertakes a grueling bicycle trek to escape his despair. A deep and satisfying read from beginning to end.”
—SALLY BURBANK, Author of the Ladies in Lab Coats series
“An empathetic peek into the emotions of those who have suffered loss, a touching portrayal of the persistent call of God, and a declaration of faith.”
—JERIS HAMM, chaplain, Marketplace Chaplains
“A well-written story filled with adventure, vivid imagery, and timely plot twists. Highly recommended! The Persistent Road challenged me to keep the heart of God in mind when I share my faith.”
—JUSTIN HANNEKEN, Executive Director, Ends of the Earth Cycling
Available Editions
| EDITION | Paperback |
| ISBN | 9798986012506 |
| PRICE | $17.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 368 |
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Anna B, Reviewer
This novel is excellent in its look into the soul of a man in turmoil, in denial of what he needs to live an authentic life without the restrictions of doubt and despair.
I was taken on a journey of self discovery with Doug a man who lost his wife to cancer but lost himself much sooner than that. At the request of his wife he begins a road trip — on a recumbent bike — with specific destinations.
Along the way he meets people who stir up his emotions, reflect things he isn’t prepared to see in himself, and bring him face to face with the only One who can bring redemption and heal his broken heart.
The Gospel is presented organically through other characters in the story as they preach at Doug causing offense, empathize and share making him curious, live out their faith stirring his desire for the Savior.
I’m reminded of a modern day The Pilgrim’s Progress as he struggles with his inner demons opposing the desire for change. This is a new classic I highly recommend for every personal library.
I was given a copy courtesy of the author. This is my honest opinion of the book.
Mary Anne B W, Reviewer
It is not often that I start reading a book and find that I just can't stop. The Persistent Road is so well written that I was drawn in after the first few pages. A truly inspirational storyline that had me looking at my own life journey. Our main character, Doug finds himself on a journey of self discovery after being fired from his job and losing his wife to cancer. With encouragement from a letter written by his wife before she died Doug starts off from LA. on a recumbent bike. Along the way at certain stops he opens a letter with a special message from his wife, Ruth. She was a christian with tremendous faith the opposite of Doug. Throughout his journey Doug encounters a strange voice encouraging him to end it all. A battle of good against evil for his soul. A truly inspirational read. Who wins? Read it and see.
Educator 697219
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the approval to read this book.
This beautifully written book is a work of hope for those who feel hopeless.
In the face of one challenge after another, heartaches without a break, the story shows us clearly how, no matter what, there is always a reason to live.
Being in a season of "editing" my life, this book really made me think about my own life and the path I can choose and the path and plan that is already pre-destined for me me by God, and the acceptance of both.
A must read!.
Readers who liked this book also liked:
Jodi Picoult; Jennifer Finney Boylan
General Fiction (Adult), Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction
