Final Drive by Shelly Hess - 2011 Indie Excellence Award Finalist

Online, August 10, 2011 (Newswire.com) - New Release That Explores a Family's Response to Losing a Father and Husband.

Final Drive is released by author Shelly Hess

"We stand at the beginning of a new year - or a new relationship, a new job, or even a simple drive out in the country - and we imagine the road ahead, as if we could see clear and straight. As if there were no bends in the road that seemingly come out of nowhere." These words from the book's forward provide a haunting preview of the author's story of love and heartbreak.

Final Drive follows the story of a Midwestern family's great loss when, out of the blue, Hess' husband tells her he wants a divorce. They are living the American dream, creating deep bons and a treasure house of memories to last a lifetime. He says he's no longer in love with her and wants to shed his family responsibilities. Seemingly overnight, he goes from being a devoted husband and father to someone who acts as if his family and 20-year marriage meant nothing. Tragedy strikes again a few months later when Bill dies after a terrible motorcycle accident near a road called Final Drive. Hess must help her two children deal with the emotional fallout from losing their father. Along the way, she discovers how to triumph in the face of adversity. You will come away deeply inspired by the power of the human spirit and the enduring nature of family ties.

Author Shelly Hess lives in a St. Louis suburb and works in the medical claims industry. She hopes sharing her experience will encourage and inspire those facing their own challenges. A book that will touch hearts in many ways.

"As a grief educator, I read many books on grief and loss. Final Drive is not like any other book I have read. It is compelling, fascinating, heartfelt, and inspirational. I could not stop reading. Shelly captures the true experience of loss, grief, hope, resilience, and love. I highly recommend this book."
Lisa Athan, MA, Executive Director of Grief Speaks

"Final Drive tells of unspeakable grief and loss in a way that inspires its readers to keep on keepin' on. It is a must-read for parents who find themselves in the heart wrenching situation of helping their children deal with tragedy."
~Dr. Beth Erickson, Author of Longing for Dad: Father Loss and Its Impact

"Final Drive is a book with conviction and intensity. In its pages, the author learns to embrace the promise of tomorrow. As readers follow her blueprint for life, we are reminded to remember the tender songs of life over the crippling fear of loss."
~Sherry Russell, Board Certified Expert in Traumatic Stress, Author of Conquering the Mysteries and Lies of Grief

Final Drive
Shelly Hess
Dog Ear Publishing
ISBN: 978-160844-994-1

Available at Ingram, Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble and fine bookstores everywhere.