Running from Sunday
Eighteen-year-old Brianna has always measured time by Sunday mornings-her mother's gentle voice calling her to church, the familiar rhythm of hymns, the certainty of answered prayers. But when cancer steals her mother away, those Sundays become unbearable reminders of a God who didn't listen.
Furious and faithless, Brianna throws herself into a reckless rebellion that leads her straight into the arms of Liam-charming, cynical, and all too willing to exploit her vulnerability. As her destructive choices spiral beyond her control, she finds herself more lost than ever, caught between the faith she's abandoned and the emptiness that's taken its place.
Enter Maya, a roommate whose quiet persistence refuses to be ignored, and Dr. Finch, an atheist philosophy professor whose unexpected wisdom challenges everything Brianna thought she knew about doubt and belief. As she begins to untangle the difference between her mother's faith and her own spiritual journey, Brianna must learn that healing doesn't require choosing between questions and answers-sometimes it means finding the courage to hold both.
A luminous exploration of grief's aftermath and the winding path toward authentic healing, Running from Sunday speaks to anyone who has ever wrestled with loss, faith, and the messy work of rebuilding a life from broken pieces. With exquisite sensitivity, this debut novel reveals that the opposite of faith isn't doubt-it's the refusal to keep searching.
Some journeys can't be rushed. Some healing can't be borrowed. And sometimes, running from Sunday means finally finding your way home.
Stanley, Rene': - "Rene' brings a uniquely contemplative voice to her writing, shaped by a life rich in diverse experiences. Born and raised amid the historic streets of Washington, D.C., she absorbed the capital's vibrant culture before spending her formative teenage years in Maryland, where she experienced the dynamic contrast of urban and suburban life.Known in her youth for her quiet observance, Rene' developed an early appreciation for the power of listening and learning from others. She found particular connection with older generations, whose stories and wisdom would later influence her storytelling. This natural inclination toward intergenerational dialogue fostered a deep understanding of human experience across different eras, a theme that resonates throughout her work.A defining chapter in Rene' 's life came with her service in the U.S. Army during Desert Storm. Her military experience not only instilled discipline and resilience but also provided profound insights into human nature and teamwork - elements that now form the backbone of her narrative style. As a veteran-turned-author, she brings an authentic perspective to her storytelling, infusing her work with both sensitivity and strength.Through her writing, Rene' aims to illuminate the positive aspects of life's journey, drawing from her varied experiences to create stories that resonate with readers of all backgrounds."
