In December, 2009, Susan Cox Powell was reported missing from her home in West Valley City, Utah. As law enforcement tried to piece together what had happened to Susan, her husband, Josh Powell, became the only person of interest in the case. For Jennifer Graves, Josh’s sister, the nightmare started long before Susan’s disappearance. From her experiences growing up in the Powell family to the terrifying moment when she first started to believe her brother was a killer, she relied on her faith to stay strong. She devoted herself to the safety of Susan’s boys, Charlie and Braden, whom she hoped to be able to raise as her own. When the boys were murdered by their father in February, 2012, Jennifer was more than devastated, but she had to believe there was a reason for it all—including the deaths of her beloved nephews. In A Light In Dark Places, Jennifer shares her struggles and her triumphs. In coming to terms with such tragedy she finally was able to embrace the truth that we all have the power to choose our own path—and there is always hope, no matter how dark things may seem.
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My Review:
Even though I followed this story as it was happening, I was still so emotionally moved as I read, A Light in Dark Places. My heart hurt so much for Jennifer as I read the story of her life. I also felt such empathy for the people who loved Susan Cox Powell and her two boys. So much heartbreak revolves around this true story. A Light in Dark Places is written well and a very compelling read. Even though I knew the outcome of this sad story, it was good to hear Jennifer's side of the story and how her love and faith carried her through this great trial of losing her beloved sister-in-law and her precious nephews. It was also very intriguing to hear many facts that hadn't been shared with the public about the case.
Personally, I remember hoping and praying so long that Susan would be found. We kept seeing her beautiful smiling face on TV radiating with brightness and joy. It was nice to hear in Jennifer's words what a special person Susan really was. This book is a wonderful tribute to Susan and her boys, Braden and Charlie. I really thought I would be totally depressed reading this book. I was so surprised that even though Susan and Jennifer's life stories tugged at my heart, I was left with a feeling of peace and hope that Susan is now with her precious boys in Heaven. Thank you Jennifer for sharing yours and Susan's story.
My Review:
Even though I followed this story as it was happening, I was still so emotionally moved as I read, A Light in Dark Places. My heart hurt so much for Jennifer as I read the story of her life. I also felt such empathy for the people who loved Susan Cox Powell and her two boys. So much heartbreak revolves around this true story. A Light in Dark Places is written well and a very compelling read. Even though I knew the outcome of this sad story, it was good to hear Jennifer's side of the story and how her love and faith carried her through this great trial of losing her beloved sister-in-law and her precious nephews. It was also very intriguing to hear many facts that hadn't been shared with the public about the case.
Personally, I remember hoping and praying so long that Susan would be found. We kept seeing her beautiful smiling face on TV radiating with brightness and joy. It was nice to hear in Jennifer's words what a special person Susan really was. This book is a wonderful tribute to Susan and her boys, Braden and Charlie. I really thought I would be totally depressed reading this book. I was so surprised that even though Susan and Jennifer's life stories tugged at my heart, I was left with a feeling of peace and hope that Susan is now with her precious boys in Heaven. Thank you Jennifer for sharing yours and Susan's story.
I love true accounts of people overcoming challenges and helping others with the lessons learned from them. This story of Jennifer's experiences throughout her abusive childhood, and later the disappearance of Susan and the murder of her two sweet nephews is just that. She shares how she felt God's hand in her life, guiding her to make better choices than the rest of her family did. Though the book had so many sad details, it ended with hope, courage and love. ~D. Raymond
I had followed the story of Susan Powell very closely so I wasn't sure if the book was going to tell me something I didn't already know...but it sure did. Jennifer was very brave in writing this book and all she had done in support for Susan. I highly recommend the book it sheds a light on the whole situation that helps make things more clear. ~ Carolyn
This was a very informative read. I lived in Utah at the time of Susan's disappearance and followed the news every day. This book answered many questions that the news did not. Although it was very sad and I already knew the outcome it was a good read. I admire Jennifer for her part in the whole story and I am glad she had the fortitude to write this book to honor her sister in law. ~Katie O.
To finally read about details that were never shared brought closure for me about this insidious crime. While the book was an easy read, the message shared about breaking the cycle of abusive relationships is invaluable. It truly does take someone removing themselves from their abusive family's presence to stop the cycle. Praises to the author for sharing her perspectives. ~Arlene
Jennifer Graves is the mother of 5 beautiful children, 2 girls and 3 boys. She and her husband have been happily married for 19 years and together have been active in their community and church.
Jennifer is the sister of Josh Powell who killed his 2 sons, Charlie and Braden, as well as himself in February of 2012, and is also believed to have killed his wife, Susan Cox Powell, in December of 2009.
She is the recipient of the 2013 ChainBreaker of the year Award, given for breaking the chain of abuse and violence in her family.
She enjoys homeschooling their children and mentoring in classes for the commonwealth school they attend. She also loves reading, playing card and board games, and learning new things. Most of all she loves to spend time with her husband and children. They currently reside in West Jordan, UT.
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Emily Clawson is an author, a mother and a mentor. She traditionally writes inspirational fiction. This book has been a life changing experience for her and she is grateful to have been a part of telling this story. She resides in Taylorsville with her husband and four children where they run their leadership mentoring programs for youth.
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