Review ~ WILLOW (The Metcalfes #2) by Ronie Kendig

About the Book

To save her, he must become the evil he fights.

Aftercare specialist Willow Metcalfe joined Mission: Liberate Everyone to help trafficking survivors navigate the healing process. When MiLE’s Obioma Compound is attacked by the Nigerian mafia, she’s taken hostage. Against nightmarish odds, she and the victims attempt an escape—and are thwarted.

A decade after leaving his beloved homeland, Chijioke “Chiji” Okorie returns to find his sister and fight for his own country. Believing a global trafficking ring behind her abduction and a string of kidnappings across Nigeria, he goes undercover to find the head of the serpent and his sister. Chiji is stunned to discover among the hostages a familiar face—a friend’s sister, Willow. The woman he vowed years ago to marry.

The man who has interfered with her escape attempts seems … familiar, kind—but Willow knows better. He reeks of the warrior ethos that has devoured many a good man. Engaged in an impossible battle and losing at every turn, Chiji is determined to complete his missions—all of them. Even if it kills him.

Purchase: Amazon

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My Review 4.5 STARS

I’ve been anxiously awaiting WILLOW’s story since STONE came out in January. Kendig does a commendable job expressing the horrific circumstances that these victims are under. It is not for the faint of heart. I'm sure it must take an emotional toll when submerging oneself into the research required to execute a story like this. I know my own emotions were ripped during certain scenes.

Willow was not what I was expecting but she surprised me with a strength and dignity that comes out in remarkable ways. While she seems irrational at times, her heart is kind, compassionate, and truly loving toward others.

Chiji has a remarkably strong and resolute faith in God. He is a warrior in more ways than one and is always challenging Willow, reminding her that she can trust in God. His show of strength and abiding faith during some of the most degrading and horrific times is what spurs her on to explore reclaiming a relationship with Christ. And he’s beautiful. Yep. Beautiful. J

Of course, in fiction there will always be some astonishing things taking place that might not be quite believable but this is a potent novel that needs to be read. And more cameos from other Metcalfes take place, best of all Canyon (of course)! I actually teared up when he appeared suddenly in one scene. Kendig managed, once again, to draw out multiple emotions. I highly recommend WILLOW to anyone who is looking for something with a little more grit than roses.

I was provided an early digital copy of the book from the author. I also purchased my own copy. No compensation has been received.