Hope Valley
Is it possible that liberal and conservative Americans can ever come together on the important matters affecting our lives? Hope Valley (Red Lodge Press) tells the story of two couples—one retired factory workers and the other young lesbian professionals—living together on a hilltop farm outside Durham, North Carolina. Hurley and Opal are determined to protect “their” land and Old South culture, while Danny and Renata embrace modern love, progressive politics, and organic gardening. In alternately humorous and heartrending passages, Hope Valley portrays each character’s struggles to promote his or her values and to understand the other’s. When tragedy strikes, all are thrown into unfamiliar territory.
Author's Praise
"A wonderful, thought-provoking read, very evocative of changing times in the South. In a time of turmoil and fear of the "other" in America, this novel speaks to love, acceptance and respect. The characters are wonderfully drawn and I really hated to see the story end. Highly recommend this work by this talented writer!"
A story that resonates no matter where you live. The author moves the reader gracefully and seamlessly through time. The dialogue propels the story, and the characters change in surprising ways. Well done!
“The changes along Hope Valley Road in John Manuel’s novel mirror the cultural changes that are testing our nation. Some of the characters bend, some break. The ones left standing in the end persevere with the strength, grace, and humility that we will all need to survive.”