Known as "the feisty one," young Barbara will do whatever it takes to
protect herself and her younger siblings from the predators in their
lives. Her experiences are extraordinary, from countless nights sleeping
under a claw foot tub to evade her abuser to witnessing the burning of
an interracial couple. Though she was the self-appointed protector of
her mother from various abusers, those lessons were not always applied
as she pursued her own adult relationships. Yet even when she
experienced defeat and despair, she learned she was never defeated.
Not In The Fire is for anyone tempted to doubt their usefulness
and ability to carry on. Journey with Barbara as she finds that God is
not in the fiery events in her life, but in a gentle, silent voice.
Endorsement:
This is a book I could not put down when I started to read. After each
chapter I keep asking, 'What is happening next to the characters
involved?' As a pastor for over 50 years and dealing with many hurting
families suffering from physical, verbal, and emotional abuse, the main
character in this story is so typical of individuals and families we
work with today in pastoral ministry. Author Barbara Austin shares how
her faith in the Lord Jesus for daily sustaining help, healing and hope
brought her to a better life. Believe me, once you start to read this
book, you won't want to put it down.
─Pastor David Levandusky, Living Waters Assembly of God, Greenfield,
MA., Author of the current third edition of the popular book titled,
"The Last Eleven Days of Jesus. Countdown to Passover, Crucifixion and
Resurrection. A scholarly resource showing the most accurate Four Gospel
Harmony and Chronological order of Jesus Last Eleven Days."
In "Not In The Fire," Barbara Austin opens her heart and shares a
devastating account of the unimaginable violence, abuse and injury she
has witnessed and endured. But it's also the story of how God can redeem
any situation, no matter how heartbreaking, through simple faith and
obedience. "Not In The Fire" will be an encouragement for anyone looking
for hope and a path to overcoming life's challenges.
─David Rhenow, weekday morning host at Life Changing Radio, WSDK,
Hartford, CT; former missionary with Trans World Radio on the island of
Guam.
About the Author:
Barbara Austin grew up in the green mountains of Vermont and currently
lives in rural Massachusetts with her daughters Tonna, Mary, Taylor and
Rachel. She has held numerous positions in her local church, including
organizing a monthly women's breakfast, and some of her career pursuits
have included children's librarian, personal care attendant, orphanage
custodian, nanny, and carhop. Her home has been the site of day care for
the elderly, children's daycare, and a bed and breakfast. She remains
steadfast as an active listener to the "still small voice" that prompts
her responses to the need around her.
