Set in depression-era Mississippi, Julie Cantrell’s debut novel Into the Free (David C. Cook) is the story of a young girl growing into adolescence as she confronts family abuse and a dark past. Millie Reynolds is an unforgettable character, in a story that will linger in the hearts of readers long after they’ve turned the last page. “I hope this book encourages us to treat each other with love and kindness,” Julie told USA Today. “We tend to get caught up in certain rules and traditions, but the Bible tells us God is love. I believe it’s really as simple as that.”