The fragile world of a young boy unravels in today's reading from "Countryside: The Book of the Wise." Luke's life has been steadily changing—his beloved grandparents haven't visited in nearly a year despite his constant letters, and his father's recent job loss at the tire plant has cast a shadow over their home. Where once there was laughter, now bitter comments about "the economy" and "dimwits at the Capitol" fill the silence. In one heartbreaking moment, Luke watches his father throw away his framed diploma, declaring it "just a fancy piece of paper" that's worthless now.

Across the street, an improvised park has become Luke's sanctuary. Under the spreading branches of an oak tree, the world seems calmer—even the passing cars sound quieter. It's here, as summer approaches, that Luke finds himself one evening, watching the stars appear one by one in the darkening sky. But this ordinary moment transforms when a strange red light appears among the stars—stationary, brightening and dimming, unlike any airplane. Then comes the whisper of his name, carried on an unseasonably cold wind.

What follows defies explanation. A black mist engulfs the park, silencing the world around him. From this unnatural darkness emerges a figure with glowing red eyes—a man in a black suit who introduces himself as Saul. With unsettling familiarity, he tells Luke, "I have waited so long to speak with you." As the mist parts momentarily to reveal the normal world beyond, listeners are left wondering: Who is this mysterious stranger? What does he want with Luke? And how will this encounter change everything our young protagonist thought he knew about his world? Join us as we continue this journey through "Countryside: The Book of the Wise," where ordinary troubles give way to extraordinary adventures.

https://www.amazon.com/Countryside-Book-J-T-Cope-IV-ebook/dp/B00MPIXOB2

Step into the shadows between worlds where destiny awaits an ordinary boy. In this gripping installment of Countryside's Book of the Wise, we witness young Luke Rayburn's startling encounter with a mysterious stranger who calls himself Saul.

Surrounded by unnatural darkness in an empty lot, Luke faces a revelation that will forever alter his path. "Unlike any mortal before you," Saul tells him, "your choice will decide for the world between slavery and war or freedom and peace." The weight of this responsibility settles heavily on Luke's shoulders as he learns of an ancient book—coveted by many but meant specifically for him—containing secrets hidden for ages that may determine humanity's fate.

The tension builds as Saul attempts to give Luke a glimpse of what's to come, plunging our protagonist into suffocating darkness before he emerges back into reality, questioning everything he thought he knew. "Why can't I just have a normal calm life?" he asks the night sky, where a red star glares down at him ominously. This moment marks the beginning of Luke's reluctant hero's journey, where the line between the ordinary and extraordinary blurs.

Countryside's Book of the Wise masterfully weaves elements of coming-of-age struggle with high fantasy stakes, creating a story that resonates with readers of all ages. The narrative explores themes of destiny, free will, and the courage required to face the unknown when the world's fate hangs in the balance.

Have you begun your journey through Countryside yet? Get your copy from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or your favorite bookseller today, and don't forget to leave a review to help others discover this magical adventure!

https://www.amazon.com/Countryside-Book-J-T-Cope-IV-ebook/dp/B00MPIXOB2