Gripping! An outstanding parallel to the dramatic swings life will take. In 18: A novel of Ruin and Redemption, the story depicts the rawness, the realness of life – and Barnes’ brilliant talent for displaying the beautiful blend of challenge and support that each one of us has in our own lives. It is only within our moments of ruin that we can truly be redeemed.

When I picked up 18: A Novel of Ruin and Redemption I did not set it down … It takes you on a real-life journey with all its pains and victories. One of the things that brought tears to my eyes is seeing that there are men that hold women in high regard and that they are for them more than they are against them. I believe this book will change lives!

This book has three things in it that I love:  Sports, a crime story, and Personal Development. All the characters have a story, and every person in Life has a story. By the end of the book, Craig Cantwell becomes the Hero in a new story – something that I KNOW is possible and that is always a joy to see.  I loved this book! 

Love this book! The story, the lessons, and the emotion it conveys are very powerful. A great story of overcoming depression and despair to find love for life again.