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Courtesy photo CJ Mouser's new novel ÔSalvation Home' follows the story of a family that moves to Hardee County in the 1930s.

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published: Sunday, July 26, 2009

Author celebrates Old Florida with new novel

Special to the News-Sun

SEBRING - Just when you thought old-style Florida was gone forever, along comes a novel by author CJ Mouser, which revolves around life in the Sunshine State back in the mid-1930s.

"Salvation Home," released this month by Roseheart Publishing in Chiefland, follows the trials and travails of the Eddy family as they put down roots in a land they regard as strange and fascinating, and that is literally "crawling with alligators, snakes, and wild hogs."

The historical novel, which is set in Hardee County, takes an unadorned look at life on the Peace River before modern conveniences -- the pitfalls and dangers -- and a wistful look back at the joys of country living and the appreciation of simple pleasures and honest, hard work.

What makes this book different from any other is Mouser's ability to approach thought-provoking and sensitive issues without taking a side, leaving readers to make up their own minds.

This book challenges stereotypes as the heroine struggles against traditional roles and societal stigmas, and ultimately breaks through barriers, and despite being a "stranger" finds herself accepted by the river population.

Mouser moved to Texas two years ago from Hardee County, where she lived. During her time in Central Florida, she wrote Farm Tales, a regular column that appeared in the News-Sun, where she was also an employee.

"Salvation Home" is available for purchase at Amazon.com, online at Barnes and Noble, or at Mouser's Web site, at www.cjmouser.com.