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About this item
Highlights
- "Tromp weaves a complex historical tale incorporating love, suspense, hurt, and healing--all the elements that keep the pages turning.
- Author(s): Janyre Tromp
- 288 Pages
- Fiction + Literature Genres, Christian
Description
About the Book
"Charlotte Anne Mattas longs to turn back the clock. Before her husband, Sam, went to serve his country in the war, he was the man everyone could rely on-responsible, intelligent, and loving. But the person who's come back to their family farm is very different from the protector Annie remembers. Sam's experience in the Pacific theater has left him broken in ways no one can understand-but that everyone is learning to fear. Tongues start wagging after Sam nearly kills his own brother. Now when he claims to have seen men on the mountain when no one else has seen them, Annie isn't the only one questioning his sanity and her safety. If there were criminals haunting the hills, there should be evidence beyond his claims. Is he really seeing what he says, or is his war-tortured mind conjuring ghosts? Annie desperately wants to believe her husband. But between his irrational choices and his nightmares leaking into the daytime, she's terrified he's going mad. Can she trust God to heal Sam's mental wounds-or will sticking by him mean keeping her marriage at the cost of her own life?"--Book Synopsis
"Tromp weaves a complex historical tale incorporating love, suspense, hurt, and healing--all the elements that keep the pages turning."--Julie Cantrell, New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of Perennials
"A riveting read and . . . a first class suspense thriller."
--The Midwest Book Review Charlotte Anne Mattas longs to turn back the clock. Before her husband, Sam, went to serve his country in the war, he was the man everyone could rely on--responsible, intelligent, and loving. But the person who's come back to their family farm is very different from the protector Annie remembers. Sam's experience in the Pacific theater has left him broken in ways no one can understand--but that everyone is learning to fear. Tongues start wagging after Sam nearly kills his own brother. Now when he claims to have seen men on the mountain when no one else has seen them, Annie isn't the only one questioning his sanity and her safety. If there were criminals haunting the hills, there should be evidence beyond his claims. Is he really seeing what he says, or is his war-tortured mind conjuring ghosts? Annie desperately wants to believe her husband. But between his irrational choices and his nightmares leaking into the daytime, she's terrified he's going mad. Can she trust God to heal Sam's mental wounds--or will sticking by him mean keeping her marriage at the cost of her own life? "With twists and turns as unexpected as an Arkansas thunderstorm, Tromp brilliantly explores the things war can change and the important things it can't." --LYNNE GENTRY, USA Today best-selling author of Lethal Outbreak
Review Quotes
"A riveting read [that] will have a special appeal to readers with an interest in PTSD--the invisible wounds that the horrors of war inflict. A first class suspense thriller."-- "The Midwest Book Review" (8/20/2022 12:00:00 AM)
"Shadows in the Mind's Eye is an intense, beautifully written novel about secrets and sacrifice. A story about poignant trauma and truth potent enough to heal a broken family. A fabulous debut!"--Melanie Dobson, award-winning author of The Winter Rose and Catching the Wind (11/7/2021 12:00:00 AM)
"A hair-raising, mind-bending psychological thriller, Shadows in the Mind's Eye by Janyre Tromp deftly explores a marriage torn asunder by war. Is a marriage worth fighting for when you cannot see the people your husband is fighting, or when you even become the one he is fighting? Tromp's nuanced empathy elevates this story to another level and blurs the line between villain and hero, causing readers to ponder the lengths they would go to protect themselves, even against the ones they love."--Jolina Petersheim, bestselling author of How the Light Gets In (11/7/2021 12:00:00 AM)
"An achingly poignant tale of rediscovering love and trust between wounded hearts. Love, forgiveness, and danger weave together in Tromp's emotional tale where the greatest of battles are fought in the mind. Beautiful in description with complex characters, readers will not forget this emotional journey."--J'nell Ciesielski, best-selling author of The Socialite (11/7/2021 12:00:00 AM)
"Oh my! What a story! Shadows in the Mind's Eye is a stunner of a debut novel. Sam and Annie's love is beautifully rendered, Sam's combat fatigue (what we now call PTSD) is compassionately portrayed, and Janyre Tromp's writing effortlessly captures the Southern voice. And the last half of the book is one dangerous, breathtaking twist after another, as Sam's worst nightmares come to pass. A compelling look at a town struggling to find its soul and a wounded couple struggling to reclaim their love. Not to be missed."--Sarah Sundin, ECPA best-selling and award-winning author of Until Leaves Fall in Paris (11/7/2021 12:00:00 AM)
"Readers will enjoy this emotional exploration of a soldier's journey as he returns home to his family's farm after fighting a war in the Pacific. This story examines not only the traumatic impact on his own psyche but on the lives of all who love him most. With alternating points of view, Tromp weaves a complex historical tale incorporating love, suspense, hurt, and healing--all the elements that keep the pages turning."--Julie Cantrell, New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of Perennials (11/7/2021 12:00:00 AM)
"Stunning and compelling, Janyre Tromp's Shadows in the Mind's Eye kept me turning pages. With a cast of true-to-life characters, pitch-perfect narrative, and a plot that will keep the reader wondering what is true (and what is imagined), this novel is not to be missed. Intense and full of heart, Tromp delivers a fresh voice in the world of fiction."--Susie Finkbeiner, author of The Nature of Small Birds and the Pearl Spence Series (11/7/2021 12:00:00 AM)
"Tromp's debut novel is the perfect blend of historical fiction and psychological thriller. Shadows in the Mind's Eye hooked me early on and kept me enthralled until the very end. A story of war, of heartache, of love and healing, this novel will appeal to a broad swath of readers. Tromp is a new author to watch!"--Kelli Stuart, award-winning author of The Fabulous Freaks of Monsieur Beaumont (11/7/2021 12:00:00 AM)
"With pitch-perfect dialect, lyrical prose, and homespun wisdom, Tromp delivers a slow boiling mystery that dares to ask the deepest questions about faith, love, suffering, evil, and hope."--Elizabeth Musser, award-winning author of The Promised Land (11/7/2021 12:00:00 AM)
"With twists and turns as unexpected as an Arkansas thunderstorm, Tromp brilliantly explores the things war can change and the important things it can't."--Lynne Gentry, USA Today best-selling author of Lethal Outbreak (11/7/2021 12:00:00 AM)
Dimensions (Overall): 8.5 Inches (H) x 5.6 Inches (W) x .8 Inches (D)
Weight: .65 Pounds
Suggested Age: 22 Years and Up
Number of Pages: 288
Genre: Fiction + Literature Genres
Sub-Genre: Christian
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Format: Paperback
Author: Janyre Tromp
Language: English
Street Date: April 19, 2022
TCIN: 84315462
UPC: 9780825447396
Item Number (DPCI): 247-24-6091
Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
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Shipping details
Estimated ship dimensions: 0.8 inches length x 5.6 inches width x 8.5 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.65 pounds
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5.0 out of 5 stars with 7 reviews
100% would recommend
6 recommendations
A Jaw-dropping Debut
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Kelly G - 3 years ago
Shadow in the Mind’s Eye is a jaw-dropping debut novel! Set in Hot Springs, Arkansas, immediately following WWII, author Janyre Tromp takes the reader into the troubled mind of a Pacific Theater veteran struggling with combat fatigue. The novel has a slow, but steady start that I liken to a roller coaster making its steady, gradual ascent of that first towering peak. I believe this is deliberate on the part of the author so we can not only get immersed in the southern mountain culture but can become attached to the main characters because once the plot crests that first peak, you’d better be buckled in because the ride will take you on so many twists and turns you’ll be doubting what you think you know about nearly everything and everyone in this perfectly crafted historical suspense story. DO NOT mistake that for a sluggish or boring beginning. “For sure and for certain,” Tromp has written an emotionally gripping cast of characters and possesses a true gift for southern dialogue. Despite Sam’s mental health issues that will leave you pondering what is real and what is only in his “mind’s eye,” I was cheering for him to get it all sorted out and at least discover a large enough portion of the man he was before the war so he could find peace in his own heart and with “his girls,” wife Annie and daughter Rosie. But many other challenges face Sam upon his return home including his wife, Annie, still haunted by the ghosts of her own abusive past at the hands of her father. His younger brother, Peter, who returned home much earlier from the war after losing his hand, seems to have taken his place as daddy to Rosie, and his best friend, Doc, appears to be a little too friendly with Annie. Not to mention that Hot Springs has become a hotbed of mob activity. And Sam, like the reader, is left to sort out what is real and what are figments of Sam’s battle fatigued imagination. The whiplash from all the psychological twists is softened by the wit and wisdom of the utterly charming, Dovie May, Sam and Peter’s mother, who is determined to steer her son and daughter-in-law Annie toward one another and their faith, as their only hope to rebuild all the war has taken from them. I listened to Shadows in the Mind’s Eye on Audible and was thoroughly delighted with this audio production. Sam and Annie’s voices were brought to life by narrators Matt Godfrey and Sandy Rustin who flawlessly captured the main characters’ southern dialect and drew me into the post-WWII era. If you enjoy audiobooks, I highly recommend this Recorded Books production. Although I received a copy of this book from I Read with Audra Book Tours, I also purchased this story on Audible. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Amazing Debut Novel!
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Connie Saunders - 3 years ago
Remember this author's name! Janyre Tromp's first novel is a stunning depiction of a couple who believes that everything will be as it once was, as soon as the husband returns from the war. Sam Mattas does return, and it doesn't take long for his wife Annie to realize that things will never be the same again. Our society today is very familiar with PTSD but it wasn't a common diagnosis for the returning soldiers of WWII. Tromp poignantly describes Sam's struggles, his attempts to prove that he isn't the villain that he appears to be, and his wife's efforts to understand and accept this new normal. The story alternates between both of their viewpoints, so we're offered a powerful view of their many emotions. There are so many key elements to this story. Sam's psychological issues, along with Annie's bewilderment and fears, play out against the background of Hot Springs, Arkansas during the 1940s. I loved learning about the historic legacy of Hot Springs National Park, a popular resort area for the rich and affluent, but Hot Springs was also a place of corruption and illegal gambling. Much of the suspense and drama revolves around attempts to keep these activities hidden by bribing the local authorities and pointing fingers at others. Will Sam's erratic behavior cause him to become a scapegoat? Is Annie strong enough to hold their family together? If you're looking for historical fiction that is overflowing with faith, hope, and inspiration, you need to read Shadows in the Mind's Eye. Tromp's debut novel is a deeply emotional story that you won't soon forget! I received a copy of this book from Kregel via Read with Audra Blog Tour. There was no obligation for a positive review.
Outstanding in Every Way!
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Rebecca Maney - 3 years ago
4.5 stars "Maybe we could start over today." Sam Mattas returns to his beloved mountain home near Hot Springs, Arkansas a changed man. War will do that to a person, won't it? Still suffering nightmares and flashbacks, he tries to re-enter life with his family, only to realize that they are struggling mightily with who he has become, while dearly loving the man that he used to be. There are those, though, who are primed to take advantage of Sam's often addled state of mind; he's been gone for years, and the Mattas property is strategically located for nefarious activity . . . . or is Sam just seeing things? . . . again. In the midst of so much uncertainty, there's one thing about which Sam will never waver. . . . his steadfast love towards his beautiful wife Annie and their little girl Rosie, whom he has just met for the very first time. But is Sam an asset or a liability to his family? Time will tell, for Sam's intense desire to protect those he loves has set off a chain of events that will be difficult, if not impossible, to stop. What an outstanding debut novel!!! Deeply romantic, inspiring, interesting, and yes, even suspenseful . . . . this book paints a beautiful picture . . . . of a restoration project of sorts, for "sometimes you got to choose what you see. And sometimes God uses broken things to save us . . Ain't no light that can get through something solid. It sneaks through the broken places. Give our Sam a chance to show you, and I'll bet you'll like what you see." "Happily ever after don't happen lessen each person in a marriage works. It's like a team of horses . . . They both have to carry their own load." Wise words, Dovie May!
Shadows in the Mind's Eye
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
amybooksy - 3 years ago
Shadows in the Mind's Eye is a great debut for novelist Janyre Tromp. For me, it was an emotional tale that had me wanting to grab some tissues. It is a powerful story of redemption and healing. I personally felt a connection to Sam and the trauma and nightmares he endured. I wanted to keep reading to find out how it would all end for him and Annie. I liked the addition of suspense and mystery, too. Shadows in the Mind's Eye will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical fiction. I will be looking for more like this by Janyre Tromp in the future. She has found herself a new fan. I received a paperback copy of Shadows in the Mind's Eye from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Intense and Poignant
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
labornotinvain - 3 years ago
A gripping and gritty story about love, revenge, betrayal, and holding on for better or for worse. I didn't want to put this book down for a second, it kept me guessing all the way up until the explosive conclusion and I loved every minute of it. I liked how the book alternated perspectives between Sam and Annie, their scars and ghost from the past hindering their reunion. Sam is a veteran who has seen countless horrors that haunt his nightmares, returning to fight another battle for his marriage and family. I admired his fierce devotion to his family, and willingness to sacrifice him self many times over for the ones that he loves. Annie has always seen Sam as her hero, but the man who returns reminds her of her nightmares. I admired Annie for her strength and how she has grown while Sam was away, as well as her inner mama bear. There was intensity, yet vulnerability to both Sam and Annie, that brought a genuine rawness and gravity to their plight. Rosemary is a darling child, but one of my favorite characters had to be Dovie May, a woman of strong faith, and the most quotable character in the whole book. This is well layered read, intense and poignant, with honest, raw characters. Masterful storytelling pulled me in and didn't let go until I was finished, I loved the elements of a psychological thriller, as well as how it definitely kept me guessing and holding on tight for the answers. I couldn't have asked for anything more from this stunning and intense read, it checked every box for me and I can't recommend it enough! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
a Must Read
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Deana - 3 years ago
With each page I became more emotionally involved and couldn’t put the book down. Sam tugged on my heart so much the moment he stepped in the house where his wife was. It had been a long time since he had see her smile and his heart pounded with anticipation. Even though he was happy to be home from the war, he still felt out of place. The war did something to him that causes him to react to every noise, every strange movement and even words that sound different. I know he must be thinking that he was crazy but he has to overcome this darkness that is surrounding him. Annie is thrilled her husband is home. She has been anticipating this moment forever it seems. With a smile on her face she greets Sam and feels safe in his arms once again. She hides the truth of being sad and lonely. How long has she been depressed? She senses that Sam has changed but she is not sure she has the strength to fight her own demons. The author delivers an emotional journey with Sam and Annie as they struggle to reconnect. I could feel their hesitation at sharing with each and at times they want to scream that they need help. Dovie May is a woman who doesn’t mince words but gives compassion when needed. I love how she knew that Annie was struggling with the changes going on in her life. To me she was the glue that held the family together. There were times she could have been harsh, but her gentle yet firm spirit became the calming factor in this family deep with problems. I would love to have a Dovie May in my family. She knows how to diffuse a situation with grace and unconditional love. The story is filled with truth and healing. Finding joy in the midst of sorrow is hard but it is where healing begins. Sam and Annie go through trials as they find their way back to happiness. I loved reading how they shared their innermost thoughts with each other and grew in their relationship with each other. As danger starts to set in around the farm, Sam needs to convince everyone that something illegal is going on but will anyone believe him? The story gets intense as Sam realizes that he has not been hallucinating about the shadows he has been seeing. The question is who can he trust with what he has discovered? The author gave me shivers as I was a witness to evil that visited the farm. Get ready for an adventure where darkness tries to take away healing and twists in the story give way to danger. I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Read with Audra Blogging Program. The review is my own opinion. “It’s where things is broke that the joy shows through.”
Fabulous Psychological Thriller of WWII Era
5 out of 5 stars
Babbling Becky L - 3 years ago
“Sometimes God uses broken things to save us … Ain’t no light that can get through something solid. It sneaks through the broken places.” Broken… that is what so many characters are, in Janyre Tromp’s debut novel, Shadows in the Mind’s Eye. WWII is over, but as the surviving men return home, many face the kind of difficulties that own Sam Mattas and his family. Wives and other family not going to war attempt to keep the family homestead going, waiting for their men’s return. When Sam Mattas reappears, his wife and family are left to wonder how to navigate the much less-than-ideal- situation God allows. Is God still to be trusted? Does God have a plan for this mess? This psychological thriller is immersed in the Southern mountain culture, with the heart of truth only revealed after much emotional upheaval (including on the reader’s part!) First-person narrative, alternating between Sam and Annie, made me want to choose sides, then switch repeatedly until my head was spinning. Characters are so multi-faceted and fluid that I found myself identifying with even some of the “villains.” I must admit this novel reminded me of some great classics- not easy to enter into for a while, but once I did, I felt like I had discovered a treasure by the end! My favorite character is Dovie May. Elderly, life has not been kind to her, yet she remains full of faith, optimism, and encouragement for others to keep pressing forward. Wisdom is certainly on her tongue. I received a copy of this book from the I Read with Audra Tour via Net Galley. No positive review is required, and all opinions are my own. Notable Quotable: So many, but I will give my fave: “We think everything eventually goes back to what we want it be. That everything’ll be happy and familiar, the good winning. We never want to travel beyond the point where everybody’s happy. But life’s everything after, and the question is, what are you going to do with the truth life drops in your lap?”