Kimberly Shursen

Peace in the Valley Kimberly Shursen

"I felt as though I'd met all the people in this book."
"I loved the unique concept of this story.
"Based on true life events, Peace in the Valley is a gripping heartfelt story of finding the courage to leave the past behind."
Soon the lights will be strung around the quaint town of Peace, Oregon's town square. Storefronts will showcase trees filled with unique ornaments and, once again, everyone in town will embrace with the holiday spirit. Everyone except thirty-three-year-old Scott Dempsey.
For Scott the holidays are just another reminder of his wife Beth who left him for a stranger she met online. Depressed, lost, and lonely, Scott has no idea who he is without the only woman he's ever loved.
When Scott comes across an article about the professional cuddling business he scoffs at the idea. People actually invite a stranger into their homes to talk to? Ridiculous.
After he takes time to read stories from those whose lives changed because someone took the time to listen, he decides to give it a try, if only to get out of his miserable head.
Disguised as Santa, Scott delivers flyers to stores in Peace and the surrounding small towns. Much to his surprise, the calls start pouring in. As Scott visits those he's known all his life he finds he's far from being the only one who suffers from the pain of loss and loneliness.
And as Scott gives hugs and words of encouragement, he begins to discover a side of himself he never knew existed.
What readers are saying about Peace In the Valley: "A wonderful story. I kept going to my car over my lunch hour to read it."
"I loved this book!!! This true-to-life story is different than Shursen's thrillers. Her imagination is incredible."
"I became immersed in this story and could not put it down!"
"I laughed and cried...so many relatable characters."
"Better than a Hallmark movie!"
"Gifts are not always wrapped beautifully under a tree...some come from the heart."