Finding Jeena: A Novel

By Miralee Ferrell

Jeena Gregory's new job promised big things—new clothes, new townhouse, new car, new furniture. . . in short, a new life. But when rumors around town cast her boss in a shady light, Jeena starts questioning her employer's integrity. As her new life begins to crumble around her, she has nowhere to turn, except to the God she had long forgotten.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kregel Publications
• Release date: Sep 20, 2011
• ISBN: 9780825489273

Book preview

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CHAPTER 1

Jeena Gregory chewed on her lip as she stared at the red silk dress hanging in the closet. Would it be enough? She wiped her sweaty palms down the legs of her jeans, trying to vanquish the knot in her stomach. The same feeling she’d experienced as a ten-year-old hit her. She’d walked into her new school and tried to ignore the snickers as some of the students eyed her worn-out sneakers and hand-me-down clothes.

She refused to let fear or insecurity take control. Fear couldn’t hurt her—only men could do that. And Sean loved her.

No way would she believe the rumor she had heard from Connie, the biggest gossip in her small group of friends. Sean couldn’t be seeing someone else. He was close to proposing; she’d sensed it more than once. Jeena shook her head, trying to dislodge the disquieting thoughts. He’d have a good explanation.

Her confidence level soared after applying makeup and slipping into the dress. It had cost her two days’ salary, but it was worth every cent. Hugging her in all the right places, the dark red silk accented her long, black hair and green eyes. Working out at the club kept her figure where she wanted it.

Sean’s car flashed past Jeena’s window and halted in front of her small condo. Jeena ran a hand over her trim hips. She’d be thirty later this year, and her body still looked like that of a twenty-year-old—she’d maintain it if she had to work out every day.

The doorbell chimed, but this time Jeena didn’t rush to answer. Sean Matthews needn’t think her life revolved around his arrival, even if it did. Playing a little hard to get might work in her favor.

The bell chimed a second time, and Jeena imagined its tone changed to one of impatience. Better not overdo it. She opened the door and stepped back into the glow of the entry light to give him the full effect.

A small frown turned down the corners of Sean’s mouth, giving a serious aspect to his rugged face. His tapping toe stilled, but his lowered brows didn’t lift until he stepped across the threshold.

The smile Jeena expected didn’t appear. Apprehension flickered through her mind. Something wrong, Sean? She touched his arm.

He ran his fingers through his dark blond hair, giving a slightly rumpled look to a man who prided himself on his appearance. Our reservation is in fifteen minutes. We’re going to be late.

He hadn’t seemed to notice the gown or the accentuated curves. I had a bit of a struggle zipping up this dress.

You might need a jacket. That looks a little skimpy for a chilly evening.

The small wisp of fear grew, fanned by the coolness of his impatience.

Skimpy? That’s it? She stepped back, folding her arms.

He shot a quick, cool look at the dress. You look great. Is it new?

She pursed her lips. Something was up. Yes, it’s new. She swung toward the closet. Fine. I’ll get a jacket. She yanked open the door and pulled a black cape off the rack. Great start to our evening.

He helped her into his silver Lexus, then slipped into his seat and turned the key. You really do look stunning. Sean paused. It’s been a crazy day, and I’ve had a lot on my mind. He gave her a soft smile before turning his attention back to the road.

They pulled out into the street and headed through the residential area toward the edge of town. Silhouetted against the skyline, tall fir trees flanked the elegant homes along the way. Kids still played in front yards, and a couple of eager homeowners mowed their yards. Jeena sighed. She missed having a yard and flowerbeds. The new townhouse she’d put a deposit on boasted a small backyard and window boxes in the front, so she could indulge her gardening hobby on her days off.

She sank deeper in the seat and released a small breath. Peaceful silence enveloped her as the quiet car snaked around the curves and the sun glinted off the nearby Columbia River. Sean loved her. Losing sight of that was foolish. Sure, he’d neglected to kiss her when he’d arrived, but she understood the stress generated by work. His job as a financial consultant to a large corporation in Portland often kept him distracted.

Connie was being catty and nothing more.

Jeena gave a low laugh. You had me worried. I thought aliens had taken over your body when you didn’t react to this dress.

He pulled away from a stop sign and glanced in his mirror, then reached over and took her hand. Never fear. If aliens attempt a takeover, I’ll shoot ’em dead. His quick smile flashed. Hungry?

Very. She’d been foolish to listen to Connie. An hour earlier, she couldn’t have eaten a thing, but now she was ravenous.

Sean had chosen a small, rather exclusive restaurant, a rarity in River City, Oregon. They could have driven an hour up I-84 to Portland, but the recent growth of tourism in the Columbia River Gorge had birthed new hot spots, popular with locals and tourists alike.

They were seated by a window that afforded a breathtaking view of the river, and Jeena could see the colorful sails of windsurfers kiting along in the evening breeze, the soft glow of the late April sunset bronzing the multicolored sails. Candles glowed against the damask tablecloth, giving off a subtle air of luxury. Strains of low music added to the ambiance, creating a soothing background for the trickle of diners still drifting in.

Sean had requested a quiet spot in the corner, giving a sense of privacy that still allowed a good view. While he ordered, Jeena glanced around the room, wondering if any of their friends might be here tonight. No familiar faces appeared within her line of sight. Good. She wanted this evening to be theirs alone. Maybe they could sort out the nasty rumor starting to circulate and kill it before it morphed into something worse.

Sean leaned back in his seat and sighed, stretching his legs out from under the heavy brocade cloth.

Long day? Jeena reached across to stroke the side of his face. He didn’t pull away, but he didn’t wrap his long fingers around hers as she’d expected. A tiny alarm went off in the back of her mind.

He gave a small shake of his head, dislodging her hand. Not really. It feels good to sit across the table from a beautiful woman, instead of looking at bored businessmen all day.

She sat back in her chair and relaxed. Something going on at work that’s bothering you?

Very little. How about you? When does your lease start on the new townhouse?

In ten days, so I’m boxing everything up now. I’ve got my final interview a week from Monday with Browning and Thayer.

It’s too bad it’s only a temporary job, but with your expertise in design, they can’t go wrong contracting you. He straightened in his chair and leaned toward her, an affectionate smile flickering across his lips.

She flashed him a grateful look. Thanks. I hope they feel the same. But being a private contractor has its advantages, and the project is big—it should last at least a year.

The waiter arrived, placing steaming plates of fragrant pasta in front of them and gathering the empty salad dishes. A few minutes passed in comfortable silence, and Jeena’s misgivings evaporated in the relaxed intimacy.

Candlelight cast a warm light across Sean’s face, accentuating his masculine good looks. Jeena smiled and settled deeper into her chair. So tell me about your family. Last time we talked, you were concerned about your mom living alone, now that your dad’s gone. How’s she doing?

Great, from what I gather when I have time to call. He wound the last strand of pasta onto his fork and took a bite, then wiped his mouth with a napkin. I’m sorry—I see a client I need to speak to. I’ll only be a minute. Do you mind? He nodded across the room to a silver-haired man sitting with an elegantly dressed woman.

Not at all. She smiled, then watched him make his way through the tables.

She’d first spotted him at a party a little over a year ago. Tall, mid-thirties, dressed in an Italian three-piece suit, and built like a model, he stood out in the crowd of older businessmen. An air of sophistication clung to him, enhanced by vivid blue eyes set in a deeply tanned face. A striking blonde who’d had too much to drink was hanging on his arm. He looked slightly disgusted and appeared to be searching for an escape.

Setting aside her drink, Jeena strolled across the room, knowing she’d captured his attention even before she approached.

She extended her hand and smiled when he held it longer than necessary. I don’t think we’ve been introduced. I’m Jeena Gregory, a friend of our hostess.

Sean Matthews. This is … I’m sorry, what’s your name again? His bored gaze turned to the blonde.

The woman released her grip on his arm and glared at Jeena. Angie.

Sean cocked his head toward the woman. Right. Sorry. This is Angie.

Angie’s lips turned down in a pout. I’m getting something to drink. I’ll find someone more interesting to take me home. Angie flounced across the room without looking back.

Sean’s blue eyes shone with something more than amusement. I didn’t bring her, but she’s had too much to drink and must have forgotten. She latched onto me when I arrived. Thanks for the rescue.

Jeena spent the rest of the evening in his company—and many evenings after that. Within a few weeks, she knew she wanted to spend the rest of her life with this man. Intelligent, witty, generous, and advancing up the corporate ladder at a fast pace, he possessed much that she found attractive.

Sean, however, remained an enigma. While engaging and attentive, he had yet to commit to a permanent relationship. Jeena sensed his frustration at her adamant refusal to move in together. She enjoyed the party life and didn’t judge others for their lifestyle choices, but she drew the line at moving in with a man before marriage. She deserved more. Besides, too many of her crowd had gone that direction, and she’d seen disaster strike more than once.

Jeena? I’m sorry I took so long. I hope you weren’t bored. Sean’s deep voice woke her from the memories.

She brushed the hair from her eyes. Not at all. Just remembering our first meeting.

Ah, yes. The party.

Jeena tried to suppress a smile but failed. And poor Angie.

Sean laughed outright. Poor Angie, nothing. That woman clung like a leech with no encouragement from me. You came along just in time.

She leaned toward him and stroked the back of his hand. Did I?

He slowly pulled back, and the smile disappeared.

What’s wrong? Her heart rate accelerated.

He cleared his throat and picked up a napkin. There’s something I want to tell you.

Tell. Not ask. Jeena leaned back and crossed her arms. Yes?

I’ve been offered a new job. It means a huge increase in pay and could lead to a partnership.

That sounds wonderful. I didn’t realize you were looking.

I didn’t mention it until I knew something would come of it. I didn’t want to worry you.

Why would I care? Her palms grew clammy, but she refused to panic.

His lips set in a firm line; then he took a deep breath and plunged forward. It’s taking me out of the States. A large construction conglomerate wants me in the Middle East.

A small shiver of fear traveled up her back. But that’s dangerous. Tell me you’re not going to take it.

I’ve said yes. I’ll be living in Kuwait and going across the border occasionally, and then only to areas that are deemed safe. I leave in two weeks.

Two weeks, she whispered. What about us?

He shifted slightly and looked at his hands, then raised his eyes. I’m sorry, Jeena.

What do you mean, you’re sorry? You’re not asking me to come with you or wait? How long will you be gone? She tried to keep the pain out of her voice, but her words rose in tone and volume.

An irritated look flashed across his face. The small, secluded spot he’d chosen closed in around her. No longer did the flickering candles on the table give off an aura of romance—instead, they gleamed with an ominous light.

I’ll be gone at least a year, maybe two. You didn’t want to live with me here in the States, so I didn’t think you’d be willing to move to Kuwait. Sean leaned back in his chair, holding her gaze.

She’d probably keep him if she gave in, but something inside protested. Her parents’ marriage had been lousy, no doubt about that. But her mother had saved herself for the man she married and had often urged Jeena to do the same. Besides, Grammie would be horrified if Jeena made that decision. A deep love for both her mother and grandmother had prompted Jeena to walk the same path.

But if we were married … She could have bitten off her tongue for letting the words slip.

Sean’s lips twisted in a wry smile. I have no desire to get married.

So all of this has been what … a game? You aren’t in love with me? Never have been?

He shrugged. I think a lot of you. But marriage isn’t part of my plan. I thought we’d have a good time. Frankly, I hung around hoping you’d change your mind.

You knew how I felt about living together. It’s not something I’m comfortable with.

Sean smirked. You told me your dad was a religious Jekyll and Hyde and you had no use for God. I never expected you’d stick with your decision and be such a prude.

His words brought the chaos in her mind to a halt. An icy calm washed over her. Prude. I see. So, who is she?

His face flamed red, then faded to a dirty white. Who?

She rose quickly, her chair sliding into the waiter who was walking behind her. Pride stiffened her spine and held her head high. "I nailed that one. Never mind. I’m sure you’ll be very happy together, and my prudish life will be better off without you."

She slipped around the table and started to walk past him, but he reached out and grasped her wrist. Jeena. Don’t be that way. I’ll drive you home. I’m sorry.

Shaking off his hand, she stepped out of his reach and lowered her voice, conscious of the curious looks from the tables nearby. I’ll get a taxi. Have a great life, Sean.

Somehow she managed to exit the restaurant without calling more attention to herself. Humiliation at making a scene while leaving the table forced her to increase her pace and not look back. The poor waiter—she’d nearly bowled him over while rushing from the table. But no way could she allow Sean to see her cry. She needed to get home and face this. The tears would come later, and no telling when they’d stop.

Men. Anger bubbled inside, momentarily pushing aside the sting of tears. Her father had proven men couldn’t be trusted—he hadn’t loved her, either. Why had she forgotten? Never again would a man suck her in with promises and lies. From now on, her career would come first. She’d show them all. The only person in the world who mattered was her grandmother. She’d neglected her recently, but tomorrow was a new day. Grammie would be happy to see her, and Sean was no longer important.

CHAPTER 2

Jeena spent the evening in a wash of tears, unable to shut off the flow once it started. Nightmares plagued the early hours after sleep claimed her, causing her to awaken with a pounding heart. She felt like she’d been run over by a train, and she hadn’t even been drinking. Good thing it’s Saturday and I don’t have to work.

How would she go on without Sean? She’d been so sure he would propose, so sure this man was the right one. How had she missed the truth all these months—that he was willing to live with her but not willing to marry her? Because she loved him, and love truly was blind. At least, it had blinded her to Sean’s personal agenda.

I hate him. The words spoken aloud made her wince, but it might be the only way she would get through this. Love must turn to hate if her sanity was to survive.

She needed an aspirin. Fumbling out from under the blankets and slipping into her robe, she belted it and stumbled to the bathroom.

She stared at her reflection in the mirror. Red-rimmed, puffy eyes stared out of a pale face surrounded by disheveled, dark hair. Coffee might help. She popped two aspirin, washed them down with water, and headed for her kitchen.

One day at a time. Right now, toast and coffee would create a small, bright spot in her morning. She pushed a button on the stereo, and the room filled with soothing music. Her mouth watered at the fragrance of the coffee beans as they ran through the grinder.

How could Sean dump her? Maybe she needed to rethink her decision. Jeena reached for the coffeepot. No way. She loved him, yes. But sacrificing her principles wasn’t an option, even if she had a guarantee it would work. Besides, he was seeing someone else. The pain of his betrayal shot through her heart like a dagger in the grip of an assassin.

She released a loud breath and shook herself—she’d been standing in the middle of the kitchen clutching the coffeepot. Time to knock it off. Depression couldn’t be allowed to sink its claws into her life.

Maybe having someone to talk to would help. She reached for her cell phone and sank onto her couch, its softness and depth welcoming her aching body. Tammy didn’t homeschool on Saturday, so this might be a good time to call.

The phone on the other end rang six times, and Jeena almost hung up. But a soft, breathless voice answered, Hello?

Hey, Tammy, it’s Jeena. She paused a moment. Maybe this wasn’t such a great idea. Tammy had her own problems to deal with. So … how’s your day going?

Tammy laughed, the sound chiming over the phone like a musical note. It’s fine. What’s up? You don’t sound like your normal, cheerful self.

Jeena leaned against the back of the couch and played with a strand of her hair. Uh … yeah. She took a deep breath. Sean just dumped me. She slipped her fingers over her mouth, horrified at the words she’d blurted out.

Oh, hon, I’m sorry. What happened?

He’s moving to Kuwait on a job, and from all appearances, he has a new girlfriend. She spent the next few minutes catching Tammy up on the facts of her evening, while her friend listened with an occasional sympathetic, well-placed word.

The jerk! All I can say is he didn’t deserve you in the first place. Tammy’s words sliced through the air and sent a small shaft of comfort into Jeena’s heart. But how are you doing? I mean, really doing? Want me to come over?

Jeena gave a shake of her head, then realized Tammy couldn’t see her. She plucked a tissue out of a nearby box. To be honest, not so great. I feel like I stepped on a land mine and the blast took out my heart. The rest of my body is still walking around, but my heart is lying on the ground in little pieces.

Ouch—I’m sorry, sweetie. You need a hug.

I just needed someone to listen. But if Matt doesn’t mind watching the kids, maybe we can take in a movie later? I hate spending Saturday night alone. At least this first one.

You bet. And when I get there, I’m giving you a gigantic hug.

Thanks … and thank you for listening.

Jeena flipped shut her phone. She was grateful she had Tammy in her life. Maybe she’d call Susanne as well. She glanced at her watch, a precious gift from her grandmother on her twenty-first birthday. No. Susanne’s birthday celebration with her husband was tonight, and she’d mentioned that she had a list of things to get done before they went out. Besides, there was no need to put a damper on her friend’s special day.

Jeena snuggled farther down into the leather softness of the couch and glanced at the calendar hanging on the wall near her desk. Work. That would be her salvation and help fill her time. The new contract with Browning and Thayer suddenly surged in importance. With Sean gone, there remained little else to care about but work, her two best friends, and Grammie. She’d throw her energy into the new job and prove she was more than a trophy to be displayed at the whim of a man.

Sunday morning, Jeena spun toward her kitchen sink and banged her shin on the corner of an open drawer. Blast it! She loved cooking, but this miniscule kitchen set her teeth on edge whenever she tried to use it. Her move into the new townhouse couldn’t come fast enough.

She set the coffee going and placed the bread in the toaster, then froze at the sound of the phone. Sean? Had he changed his mind? She needed to stay calm … no way could she act anxious. She’d already showed her feelings too much last night.

But he typically called her cell. Not many people called the landline she’d gotten as a backup for her grandmother’s calls, in case the cell tower ever went down. On the fifth ring, she dashed to the handset and picked up. Hello.

Jeena, honey. I almost hung up. Her seventy-eight-year-old grandmother’s quavering voice shot disappointment through her. Why hadn’t she checked the caller ID? She’d set herself up and worried Grammie.

Hi, Grammie. I’m sorry. I was making breakfast. Jeena slumped down in the straight-backed, wrought-iron chair and pushed her toast aside.

That’s all right, dear. I wanted to see if you were coming to visit today.

Jeena stifled a sigh. Two weeks since she’d visited. She needed to make more time for Grammie.

Sure, I’ll be over after a bit. Is there anything you’d like? She always asked, although she’d bet money she knew the answer.

Surprise me. A sweet chuckle gurgled over the line, and Jeena’s lips tipped up in a smile.

Give me a couple of hours; then I’ll stay and have lunch with you.

That sounds lovely, dear. I’ll see you soon. ’Bye.

The line went dead, and Jeena put down the phone. After her mother’s death, Jeena had been invited by Grammie to live with her. She’d graduated from high school by then, but having a home away from college meant the world to her. The peace she’d felt those weekends at Grammie’s stood in stark contrast to the turbulent years growing up under her father’s roof. Grammie was the dearest person in the world, and she depended on Jeena’s income to keep her in a decent facility.

Keeping Grammie in comfort was one of the most important things in Jeena’s life. Landing this new job was critical. She grinned. Besides, having a nicer car and a larger home wouldn’t hurt her feelings, either.

Jeena walked across the living room in her grandmother’s small apartment and leaned over to kiss her weathered cheek. Hi, Grammie. They treating you okay? She settled into one of the two comfortable easy chairs and drew it close.

The wrinkled hand reached over and squeezed Jeena’s. Faded green eyes twinkled. Well, nobody’s proposed this week, if that’s what you’re asking.

A smile played at the edge of Jeena’s lips, but she flinched inside, the thought of a proposal hitting a little too close to her sore heart. How many have you had since you moved in here?

Grammie leaned back in her chair, the sparkle in her eyes replaced by a thoughtful look. Let’s see … I think I hit three after your last visit. Men just can’t tolerate being alone, can they, dear?

A small jolt ran through Jeena, and her smile faded. Sean had certainly proven that true. He’d found a replacement before she was history. It must keep life interesting, all those good-looking charmers squabbling over you. Do they ever get jealous?

A sly smile tipped the corners of the woman’s mouth. Oh my, they can’t get jealous over what they don’t know. That would spoil the fun!

This time, Jeena let the laugh she’d been holding spill into the room, creating a sense of joy for the first time all weekend. Shame on you! Those poor men. I feel sorry for them. Aren’t you a little old to be stringing them along?

A shameless snort flew from the older woman’s lips. I may be nearing eighty, but I’m not dead yet! Besides, two of those old codgers have been flirting behind my back and think I don’t notice. Now … what did you bring me today? She crossed her arms over her tiny form and raised a penciled eyebrow.

Jeena reached for the bag by her side. Why had she waited so long to come? She’d do better. No more allowing other obligations to stand in the way. Maybe when she moved into her townhouse, Grammie could stay with her. If she’d agree to leave her suitors, that is.

Almond Roca, and chocolate with gooey caramel inside. Jeena pulled out the box and presented it with a grin.

Ohh … A smile tugged at Grammie’s lips. You have a piece first, dear. You always bring the best gifts, and you certainly know where my weakness lies.

She eased out of her chair and walked to a handsome wood bureau on the far side of the room. She slid open a drawer and pulled out a package, then tucked it behind her back and returned to stand beside her chair. I’ve got something for you. It’s more your style then mine, and I hope you’ll like it.

Jeena sat up straight. I’d love anything you give me, Grammie, but it’s not necessary.

I know, but I want to. Grammie slipped a small, ornate silver box from behind her back and held it out. Your grandfather gave this to me years ago. I only wore it on special occasions, as the stone looked too large on my hand. But it’ll be stunning on you. She settled back into her chair with an expectant air.

Jeena gazed at the box for a moment, then carefully opened the hinged lid and gasped. It’s beautiful! The purple stone in the center of a gold ring sparkled and glinted in the sunlight coming through the nearby window. Why, the amethyst alone must be over three carats, and the diamonds on each side are close to a carat apiece. This is an expensive ring—are you sure you want me to have it? She glanced up at Grammie and caught her wiping moisture from the corner of her eye.

I’m sure. Your grandfather was precious to me, and so are you. I’d rather you enjoyed it while I’m alive than wait till I’m dead. She gave a wry chuckle. Although that may be sooner rather than later. One never knows at my age.

Jeena pushed to her feet, alarm bells sounding in her chest. Are you okay? Is there something going on I don’t know about?

Oh my, no. I didn’t mean to scare you. Sit down, sit down. She nodded at the chair. I’ve been having a little more trouble with my breathing, but nothing out of the ordinary. She reached over and patted Jeena’s hand. Now, how about we play a game of Scrabble? Your mind is sharp, unlike some of those doddery old wolves who don’t know how to spell to save their lives.

Jeena sank back in her chair, only partly reassured by her grandmother’s protest. Promise to call the nurse if you start feeling worse.

Grammie waved a dismissive hand. Nothing to worry about, I tell you.

A quiet knock on the door quelled Jeena’s response.

Reviews for Finding Jeena

[seasaw432 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I enjoyed the story but found it hard to stay interested. You knew how it would end so was not as entertaining.

[calliebell · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Enjoyed the book but found it highly predictable, which caused it to be a bit boring at times. All in all a good storyk though. Ending was a bit "too easy" for real life.

[eam_2 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Not one of the best books I have read in recent weeks, but all in all not bad. I think Jeena learned a valuable lesson in the story and it is a lesson we all need to pay attention to. The story got off to a slow start for me, partly because of Jeena's attitude in the beginning. It's a book worth reading, just not at the top of my recommendation list.

[ilbooklvr · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

I was very disappointed in this book. The characters were stereotypical and the plot was very predictable. I was rooting for Jeena in spite of this, and the revelation of her father's abuse explained things somewhat. All in all, a book I somewhat enjoyed, but probably wouldn't recommend.

[ljoplin_3 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Jeena Gregory is a character that I didn't like very much at the beginning of the book. While taking clothes to a women's shelter, she just couldn't understand why anyone would live in a place like that. When the tables are turned on her due to a shady boss, she finds out that sometimes women have no choice. She has a long, hard road ahead of her, and with the help of some new friends, she finds God, and realizes that she is the only one who can change her life.I didn't find this book overly preachy, which I know turns some people off. There was a good moral to this story.

[mwortinger_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This was one of those books that was hard to put down. Jeena was a girl who thought she was living on top of the world with evertything that was suppose to make a person happy, good job, money, nice car, clothes. When she lost all she had and was forced to homelessness she finally found what life is all about. Her faith in God, caring about others and dying to self is what finally surfaced in her life.

[wcallister_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This was an excellent story of redemption. A girl who thought she had it all and has to lose everything before she pushes past her pride to see the Love of God! Excellent book that makes you look in yourself.

[koalamom_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Sometimes we look up to high and we lose sight of what's on the ground. Sometimes we need help in seeing what's around us. Sometimes we need help to find ourselves - that most of all. Sometimes for that we need a little help and we need to give up what we think we are to find what we truly are - and that may lead you to God.Jeena Gregory thought she had it all. Her growing up years had been difficult and had led her to distrust God. While everyone around her saw the goodness in this Higher Power, she disdained it until her "wonderful" life came crashng down around her. But it took the problems of another to set her on her way to finding God and herself. Once she had found Him, the rest of her life fell into a place that would bring her what she had craved all along - peace and love and friendship.

[dwcofer_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

In “Finding Jeena,” by Miralee Ferrell, we are introduced to young Jeena Gregory as she tries to make her place in the world. The book is a warm story, easy for the reader to relate to, detailing the ups and downs in life we all experience. The book might be a little preachy, reminding us that what we think will bring us true happiness is not always what will really make us happy. I enjoyed the book very much and recommend it highly.The plot was good, dialogue crisp and realistic, and the characters were realistic. Like many books, it had its slow spots, but overall, “Finding Jeena” is a good read, and one I recommend.