Hidden Baggage
Contemporary Fiction
Rae Freesinga, a single mother, finds refuge from her abusive past in Porchtown, Michigan. As she slowly builds a new life for herself and her children, Ollie and Nina, she comes to love the stubborn, quirky town.
When her past comes to haunt her, she takes control of her life by helping to remodel The McCloskey House, a historic home. Juggling classes for interior architecture compliments of her new job at Bates Hardware is just another thing on her plate as she makes a fresh start. Verllie-Jean, the woman who watches her children, becomes a trusted friend.
Yet dealing with her own baggage is not nearly as appealing as uncovering the long buried history of the town. But she must find the strength to face it or she will lose more than she ever imagined.
Ruth Verkaik
DEBUT AUTHOR
Well, hey! You made it this far down the page. Clearly you know who I am and what I do, but you might not know *who* I am. Here’s a few tidbits:
– There are 63 of my former second grade students wandering this earth–some of whom graciously stay in touch.
– I used to read Motor Trend so I could understand why my engineer hubby was annoyed with BMW’s tail light design.
– Motherhood used to be an arena where perfection killed me. Now I’m learning: “There’s grace for that too.”
Yes, I really do believe that “Everything is theological—even snarky stories”. Story is powerful. As well as what you believe. Combining the two? Life-changing!
I’ve been published in The Banner, the Reformed Journal Blog, and anthologies. I’m a member of ACFW, as well as a board member of the Great Lakes Chapter.
where to find my work
published
Her Identity
Published by The Reformed Journal Blog
February 2022
Catechism Kaleidoscope
Published by The Banner
May 2022
Carry the Cross: A Lenten Journey
Edited by Ruth Verkaik
December 2022
where to find my thoughts
my blog
The Already But Not Yet
Between the unshakeable certainty that one day every broken thing will be made new and the overwhelming hurt and pain of this life. Immanuel.
2022 – There is no shoe.
How did the belief that God would take away someone I loved as a punishment or spite become part of my thoughts?
How to un-overwhelm yourself
Think through your priorities. What’s important? What parts of your life rank above the others?
Need a speaker?
I’m passionate about many things. I’d love to come and hang out with your group!
Want to chat?
Have a question or thought? I’d love to hear it!