Tony Vincent arrives in the curious small town of Del Rio with one goal in mind: get through summer probation and then get into Greenwood Equestrian.

More than a few surprises await him at his uncle’s Christian camp, though, and he quickly learns that his past mistakes aren’t going to disappear. Tony becomes the object of suspicion as a crime is committed the night of his arrival, and he has no way to prove his innocence.

Adding to his already complicated stay at Jericho Camp are the campers themselves. Childish pranks and escapades keep on bringing embarrassing and hilarious situations for Tony. Then, things start to get weird. Food goes missing, two strangers are found sleeping in the kitchen, and Tony and his friends meet trouble in the streets of a Mexican town.

Everyone there keeps reassuring him, “God has you here for a reason,” “He’s a very present help in time of need.” Tony’s not so sure. He hasn’t stepped foot in a church since his dad’s death two years ago. Even before then, he wasn’t sure. Where was God when his dad died? Why would God allow him to come to this desperate place of threatened dreams?

As inviting as all the reassurances sound, Tony tries to shrug off the weight of sin, pain, and unanswered questions. Until trouble escalates to danger…

This is Jericho Ride by Betty Gaard, an exciting teen fiction.

In my house, a worn cover means the book is well-loved. Such is the case with Jericho Ride!

I think Tony is a great character. He’s tough and quick witted, with a good dose of humility and a sharp mind. More than once, you’ll find him scrubbing dishes or petting the ranch dog, Sabado, while chatting – either to himself or a friend.

One of the things I love about Jericho Ride is how genuinely faith in Jesus Christ is written into the lives of the characters. They know, believe, and live out everything they talk about. It’s as natural to them as breathing or sleeping. When I finished Jericho Ride, I decided that I wanted to write a book like Betty Gaard – one where the Gospel and faith thrive!

I’m raising a Hallelu Yah! Praise be to God who is an ever-present help in time of need (Psalm 46:1)! Praise Him, for He has said, “Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you and you will honor Me” (Psalm 50:15). And through Jesus Christ, we have this blessed truth: “Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved!” (Romans 10:13).
Hallelu Yah!

So, saddle up for the ride and join Tony’s adventure! I am sure Jericho Ride will be a beloved story on your shelf, just as it is on mine.