About the Author

Growing up Tonya spent numerous vacations and holidays in the Appalachian mountains of West Virginia. Most of her adult life has been spent with a focus on helping women. She has traveled nationally and internationally as a conference speaker. For a number of years, Tonya and her husband currently live in South Africa. They are the directors of Strong Cross Ministries providing humanitarian relief and spiritual reconciliation. Published books: - Changing the World through Media Education (1998) - Media Alert! 200 Activities to Create Media-savvy Kids (2000) - EYE SPY Program (Early Youth Education Program): An Interactive Coloring Book (2000) - Get Them Thinking! Use Media Literacy to Prepare Students for State Assessments (2005)

Reviews

The story takes place in Big Creek West Virginia in the 1920s and follows Emerald Ashby and her family as they navigate life in their poor household, with a father with a mean temper and no mercy. Emerald Ashby's life growing up was far from happy, as her father was very willing to whip her with a switch any time she so much as nicked him when she shaved his face. However, young Emerald's life took a turn for the worse when she is traded into a marriage against her will for financial gain.This might have seemed horrible to Emerald, but it was also a defining moment for her that allowed her to find her inner strength. The author was clearly in her element as she created wonderfully developed characters with their own unique thoughts and personalities. - Sefina Hawke for Readers' Favorite Best book I've read in a long time. Searingly honest in many things I can never bring myself to talk about. My family is from this area. I was deeply moved. - Verified Amazon Reader Tonya Blessing's sweet, unassuming voice deals artfully with racism, sexism, and religious bigotry. Superb storytelling interspersed with practical faith portrays the difficulty and beauty of Appalachian life. An absolutely delightful read! Marilyn Bay Wentz, Editor of Colorado Fruit and Vegitable Growers Redemption rings true in the heartfelt story The Whispering of the Willows. The book's heroine, Emerald Ashby, is rescued from tragedy by the loving hand of Jesus, true to southern historical beliefs. Emie's Christ is revealed time and time again by the care and kindness of others, poetry, song, and the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. This story reads like a prayer and will most certainly capture your heart.- Diane Andrews, national and international speaker, founder and director of R&R Retreats