Spirit Quest Series, Book 1
INNOCENCE DERAILED
On Amazon.com
After questioning everything she’s learned about God and love, Kate contemplates suicide on a foggy cliff one night but then chooses to ride the 1970 hippie currents of free love and rebellion instead.
While the guys in her class are drafted into the violence of the Vietnam War, she too flees her country for grand adventures from Mexico to Canada. On this turbulent path of self-discovery, she’s pursued by mystical words that drop into her conscience. How can she decide what’s right or what’s wrong with her life? Should she trust the Spirit-words she hears in her head?
When Kate faces her destiny, she must choose to settle down in her hometown or find the courage to follow Spirit where it leads.
This emotional page-turner explores the hurt and wonder of first love and the raw and real experiences of becoming a woman. Historical/political perspectives mirror Kate’s inner rebellion in evocative, soul-searching honesty. Inspirational and heartbreaking, the novel shows how spiritual awakening can happen to anyone! and yes, it‘s based on my own story of redemption and transformation when I first learned the joy of connecting to God!
From Literary Titan – Gold Seal Award 5-Stars
"Innocence Derailed is an inspirational book that turns the mundane events Kate experiences into a deep encounter each and every time. The first pages make the story seem like a romantic novel, but when the relationship ends, readers will see that there is more to this story than meets the eye. It motivates its audience to think about philosophical queries and reflect on their own answers. It also raises questions about rights, politics, and religion that are often silenced, not just during the 1970s, but still today. It is an emotionally-resonant coming-of-age novel that provides readers with a compelling exploration of a relatable and fascinating character. The fact that the story is also based on true events will serve as a great inspiration for its readers." –Literary Titan
From Reader Views
"Kicking off the Spirit Quest series, Innocence Derailed, is a standalone coming-of-age novel based on the author’s personal experiences. The story begins with fifteen-year-old Kate living in Oregon in 1968. It was at this time she felt Spirit connecting with her through brief messages. Shortly after, Kate falls in love for the first time and experiences life fully through this relationship. And while there is a great deal of joy, there are some painful, life-altering experiences... Jane Catherine Rozek tells her story so vividly and heartfelt, I felt like I was viewing what was happening through young Kate’s eyes as I remembered my own adventures and misadventures as a young adult. Her friendships were so meaningful, and heartbreaks so devastating. Watching her begin to embrace her connection to spirit was wonderful. I had similar experiences like this, and I suspect others who enjoy “Innocence Derailed,” will also relate.I believe others will also feel connected with this book on a level that goes beyond just enjoying an exceptionally written story, which this book is. I think Innocence Derailed, will be an excellent choice to share with women reader's groups, friends, and sisters. The conversations that will develop from discussing this will be amazing! I look forward to the next book in the Spirit Quest series." –Paige Lovitt for Reader Views
From Reedsy Discovery
"Loved it! 😍 An insider's look at first love, politics, and the wild times that were the 1960s. Although fiction, it contains elements of reality. The characters are believable and real. Kate doesn't flirt. She keeps to herself until she accidentally meets Mark, who turns out to be the love of her life. I won't reveal the course of their love affair, but it's tender, true love, the kind every teenage girl hopes to find.
The author tells a story that is part historical fiction, part reality, part autobiographical, part soul-searching, but overall, one of a young woman who doesn't quite know... who she is, what she will be, who she will become. I enjoyed the references to songs of the times as well. The music during the turbulent 1960s was almost a character unto itself.
In all, this book is intriguing. I recommend this for people who want a glimpse of how the world was during the peace, love, and rock 'n' roll days." –Wanda Fischer, Author of Empty Seats, Reviewer @Reedsy Discovery
From SelfPublishing Reviews
"Young love and history mingle together in Innocence Derailed...with the Vietnam war raging on and American culture seemingly changing by the minute, young love has its own joys and sorrows. The book's basis on a true story gives the narrative a feeling of authenticity, unfolding like a rich work of fiction, rather than an embellished memoir. Rozek's deft crafting of characters' emotions and dialogue brings the era to life, while the historical setting gives the story an enduring sense of tension for the characters, felt equally by readers." –Editor, Self-Publishing Review
Forward by Maria Trautman, author of After All, Amazon #1 Best Seller
“I have long admired Ms. Rozek’s ability to write books that can keep you reading till you lose track of time. I read and immensely enjoyed The Celestial Proposal where she takes us on a spiritual adventure like no other and now, I find myself loving Innocence Derail …To start, we get to know innocent Kate who is experiencing love for the first time. When Kate and Mark get together, they bring the reader back to the magic of youth. But the magic doesn’t last forever, and Kate is soon disillusioned and hurt by Mark’s betrayal. That takes her on a journey of discovery, and she soon gets entangled in more serious pursuits. Kate wonders about God. Is He guiding her and if so, how should she deal with it? Sometimes she thinks she hears God’s voice in her head, advising and protecting her… Kate’s faith is pure and strong, and the author portrays that faith beautifully. The story brought me to tears a couple of times, but its message is clear. Sometimes all it takes is a glimpse of goodness to make us whole.” ––Maria Trautman, author of After All, Amazon #1 Best Seller
Early Praise for Innocence Derailed
“This book is a delightful read. The emotion, the historical backdrop, and the ultimate journey of the main character are all designed to captivate the reader. Kate’s search for love is interspersed with a depth of political history and the intrigue of a courageously lived life and makes an interesting radical story that is highly readable. I enjoyed the way all aspects of the novel wove together and played off each other. Definitely recommended!” –Leigh McFarlane, The Lakeland and Peachland Passions Series
"The raw beauty of this book reminds us that life is messy but exquisitely breath-taking when Spirit whispers to our soul." R.Antkow
“A beautiful story of life, love, and adventure.” C. Meier
“The writing style was so captivating it brought me right into the story. I kept wanting to know what happened next.” S. Pegg
“A lovely exploration of traveling to new countries and uncovering spirituality. I enjoyed the way you blended Kate's real-world travel alongside the journey she takes within her own heart.” Alexandra Foxen
“This book is a delightful read. The emotion, the historical backdrop, and the ultimate journey of the main character are all designed to captivate the reader. Kate’s search for love is interspersed with a depth of political history and the intrigue of a courageously lived life and makes an interesting radical story that is highly readable. I enjoyed the way all aspects of the novel wove together and played off each other. Definitely recommended!” Leigh McFarlane, author of the Lakeland Series, The Peachland Passions Series
Jane Catherine Rozek 