Camp Refuge 2. Camp Refuge

I recently wrote a review of “Ash and Ember” in which I offered that it may be the author’s best work.  After re-reading this beautiful, deeply moving tale and realizing it’s written by the same author, I’m forced to admit I may have been wrong.  As terrific as “Ash” is, THIS may be Wayne’s greatest work!  While I have a feeling I may have to reconsider once the author writes more, nothing can take away from the quality and sensitivity of this story about heartbreak, healing, acceptance, and love.  This is one not to be missed.

This was very nicely done...Molly said it all!!! Sorry I could only give it a 5...the other stars didn't come up 😪, but know that I'd have given it a 10!!

We first meet Greg, an Alabama cop who is taking an early retirement to start a new business in North Coast California. He leaves behind his long-time work partner who is forced to get used to a new partner. We see Greg rehabilitating a very rundown campgrounds.

While @mollyhousemouse gives a great explanation of the meaning behind the name Camp Refuge, there’s more symbolism going on in the story. As I said, Greg is rehabilitating the campgrounds, but he (and others) are rebuilding, rehabilitating, and remaking their lives at the same time. Greg builds a community full of love and acceptance.

I remember talking to Wayne about why this story came to be. I read it, but there were things I didn't agree with. 

That doesn't make this a bad story. There's nothing wrong with writers challenging us. My mind remains unchanged, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't read. It doesn't mean it has nothing to offer!

It is basically a wonderful, and well written story. Full of characters we may not fully understand but that is where Wayne comes in. He takes us by the hand and shows us their humanity and if we have a heart and open mind, we cannot fail but to see it. 

This story revolves around Greg and his dream to own a Camp site.

We follow Greg as his dream begins to take shape and 'Camp Refuge' is born. Greg is joined by his ex police partner Clay and son Mason in making his dream become a reality.

The Camp Site turned out to be a place of refuge, that people turned to for Shelter and Protection.

We follow the various people as we learn about there problems and how the Camp Site helped them. 

The camp site is full of love understanding and acceptance.

Make sure you have a box of tissues when you read this story because you will be in tears.

A truly awesome story that draws you in.

I rated this story 5 stars because it is a gem.  The characters are well drawn and have some compelling stories of their own.  The story revolves about Camp Refuge and the people who make it succeed.  Grab a cup of coffee or your favorite soft drink and maybe a box of tissues and read and enjoy!

I wanted to give this wonderful story five stars. I was going to write a review, but after reading Mollyhousemouse's I don't think there is more to say. So read her review, if you haven't, and know I agree and highly recommend this story!

Come meet Greg Hanson, and see his dream take shape in the Northern California wilderness.

Greg wants a spot where anyone can feel at ease. To pursue this dream he’s taken early retirement, and moved himself to the other side of the country. You see, Greg lived in the south and he knew he couldn’t have what he wanted there.

His dream will be called “Camp Refuge.”

Merriam-Webster has 3 definitions for refuge as a noun. They all apply to this place. It is, in turn, shelter or protection from danger or distress; a place that provides shelter or protection; something to which one has recourse in difficulty. As his hard work comes to fruition, people hear about what he’s doing.

And people come.  There is love here, and acceptance. Some of it comes as surprises, some comes slowly.  For others, it’s akin to uncovering a treasure that was hiding in plain sight.

i think there's a reservation in your name for one of the cabins. Won’t you come to and see what the camp has for you?