Magnolia Storms - My Review

Janet Ferguson’s book Magnolia Storms was a fictional book but yet held a historical twist.  In its depths, the main character struggles with her experiences and memories of Hurricane Katrina.  Maggie Marovich lost so much that day, which makes it impossible to move forward.  There are so many areas of her life that need improvement, yet she cannot find her way to take those steps.  Sadly, when another tragedy hits her life, she must make some very difficult choices that will hopefully give her the fight to turn her life around. 

Maggie has so many wounds and rightly so.  Events in her life have not been what she wished for, and throughout her younger years, pain and hurt have wrapped themselves mercilessly around her and her family.  There have been moments when breathing seemed impossible—where fear claimed her heart.  She wants to protect her family, but they are too stubborn to listen to her advice.  Practical warnings never alter their thoughts regarding any past, present, or future trouble.  How can she ever go back to where she once was?  Will she ever understand the actions of those she loves? 

Josh Bergeron lost so much that day too.  When Hurricane Katrina swept through their town, he lost people who were like family to him.  And yet, he still chose to be a pilot--in order to recuse individuals who are in trouble at sea.  He has a son, so he knows this career comes with risks.  What would happen if he never came home?  What would happen to his son?  When the woman he once loved comes back into his life, Josh wonders if this could be a second chance for them.  However, this lady has made it perfectly clear that she will never embrace his work choice—even if she does love his son. 

This was such a great read, because it focused on trust and the strength of family.  It reminds the reader that no matter the valleys of life, it is imperative to place one’s trust in the One who can take you through it.  Despite what Maggie had to face, the Lord was with her every step of the way, which is a beautiful reminder to all of us.  No matter the storm, Someone is there to guide us through it.  If you enjoy uplifting, encouraging tales, check out this new book by Janet Ferguson.  Happy reading! 

This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the author for my copy. 

Maggie Marovich couldn’t save her father or her home from Hurricane Katrina, but she’s dedicated her life to meteorology so she can warn others when the monster storms approach. Except…she works three hours inland and rarely risks returning to her childhood hometown of Ocean Springs, Mississippi. Both her single-parent sister and the ship pilot Maggie once loved refused to leave the Coast, despite Maggie’s requests. Now a hurricane’s headed toward Mississippi, and Maggie’s sister is seriously injured, leaving Maggie little choice but to head south—into the storm.

The water and tides flow through Josh Bergeron’s veins, and he can’t imagine giving up piloting—even for the love of his life, the infuriating Magnolia Marovich. He tried to move on without her, marrying and having a child. But after his wife abandons him and his little boy, his career choice is threatened by the weight of his parental responsibilities. Moving next door to Maggie’s sister and sharing their child care seems like the perfect set-up. Until Maggie blows back into town.

Being forced to lean on Josh for help washes up the wreckage in Maggie’s faith. Where was God during the destruction of Katrina? Why do some prayers seem to go unanswered? Between the hurricane looming in the Gulf and another gale raging in her heart, can Maggie overcome her past and find the trust to truly live? 

Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Janet W. Ferguson grew up in Mississippi and received a degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Mississippi. She has served as a children’s minister and a church youth volunteer. An avid reader, she worked as a librarian at a large public high school. She writes humorous inspirational fiction for people with real lives and real problems. Janet and her husband have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a few cats that allow them to share the space. 

She can be found online at: www.janetfergusonauthor.com