Finding Light in the Darkest Hours

Set in Seatle, The Next 167 Hours by Christa Hickcox is an emotional journey through love, loss, and the fragile hope of healing, all brought to life through the beautifully complex character of Ember Rue. Hickcox dives into the raw reality of mental health and the search for connection, and the result is a moving, unforgettable story.

Ember Rue, an awkward but endearing protagonist, is grappling with heartache and feeling completely adrift. Her journey is accompanied by her loyal French bulldog, Stormy, whose unwavering presence adds warmth and humor to the story. Stormy becomes more than a pet; he’s a comforting anchor, a reminder of companionship during Ember’s darkest hours as she struggles to find her footing.

One of the book’s many strengths is its honesty and sensitivity in exploring Ember’s therapy sessions. It offers a realistic portrayal of the highs and lows of mental health recovery. The bond that gradually forms with a woman in her building brings a soft glimmer of hope, showing that sometimes healing comes from the most unexpected places.

*The Next 167 Hours* is a powerful narrative of resilience and rediscovery, beautifully woven with themes of love and loss, supported by an unforgettable bond between a woman and her dog. Hickcox’s storytelling has a delicate touch that will stay with readers long after they’ve turned the last page. This novel is for anyone who has felt alone but yearns to believe in the possibility of hope again.