About the book
No one ever fully recovers from the death of a child. Marie-Rose Fox wanted to be someone who was happy—not hiding from the world, or bitter and angry. She knew that forgiveness was the way to peace, but how could she ever forgive her daughter’s murderer?
Though the murder was violent and senseless, Marie-Rose was determined not to be defined by her worst nightmare. How could she live the rest of her life in a way that both acknowledged and transcended this tragedy? Is there any possible compensation to a mother for the loss of her daughter?
‘Hidden Thorns’ is the heart-wrenching but ultimately uplifting account of a mother’s journey after the murder of her daughter—how she found both peace and forgiveness.
To purchase your own copy, please click here
About the author
Marie-Rose Fox was born in Portugal. She relocated with her family to France, where she spent most of her teenage years. Whilst there, she developed a great love for languages as a challenge (Portuguese, French, Spanish, Italian and English). At just eighteen she immigrated with her family to Australia, where they lived in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney. She resided within this community for most of her adult life until she met and married Stephen. Circumstances led them to live on the Gold Coast of Queensland, where they met with tragedy in 2007 when her only child, Michelle was brutally murdered.
If you’d like to know a wee bit more about Marie-Rose Fox feel free to read the following interview at Australasian Christian Writers Marie-Rose’s Interview
Hidden Thorns is a profound and sincere story. It is a true story. Hidden Thorns is the autobiography of Marie-Rose Fox, told through a loving but broken heart.
Marie-Rose’s story is so unfathomably sad and horrific that I found myself asking ‘what now dear Lord? How much more devastation and tragedy can this sweet lady handle?’
As difficult as it was to read, I found myself unable to put the book down. We all lose people we love; some go with a great deal of trauma. To this, I can relate. But to lose your only daughter by foul play in such a cruel, hateful manner is incomprehensible. How does one recover from this type of trauma? How does one find it within their heart to forgive?
Marie-Rose’s story is undeniably authentic. You are inspired by her openness and honesty throughout. Forgiveness didn’t come easily – it never does. As Christians, we are asked to forgive and eventually forget. Marie-Rose’s story is a powerful testament to the strong Christian love that brings about forgiveness. Her story is also one of immense courage. Marie-Rose shares the inner workings of her heart and soul, showing her ability to transcend beyond the pain and anger, and transform her emotions to Christian love and forgiveness.
‘And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.’ ~ Ephesians 4:32 NKJV
After reading this heartbreaking but beautiful book I felt inspired and filled with hope. Hope that others of us would find the strength to forgive those who have wronged us. Forgiving isn’t easy but it isn’t impossible, in fact forgiving is necessary for our own peace of mind and salvation. Forgetting, however, is almost humanly impossible. So, we are to remember that nothing is impossible for God.
‘For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.’ ~ Matthew 6:14-15 NKJV
I would recommend this dear book to everyone, but especially those who have suffered unspeakable trauma. With God’s grace may we be healed.
Thank you so much Josephine-Anne for this extraordinary review of my book. It humbles me to read the words you’ve penned about my story.
Like you I believe that Hidden Thorns has the power to help those with unforgiveness in their hearts, seeking forgiveness themselves.
In His love,
Marie-Rose
You are most welcome Marie-Rose. It was my pleasure to read it.
Once this wicked wind dies down and the internet decides to behave itself, I shall edit the ‘purchase your own copy’ link. God bless.
Thank you! Much appreciated. Blessings 🙏
Done. The link in ACW post now points to your shop.
May God bless you with abundant sales and many more blessings.
This story is an amazing read from cover to cover. It was actually difficult for me to put it down.
In some aspects it’s a challenging read. Never-the-less it’s a hugely, inspiring story about a mother who is called to extend the ultimate in forgiveness. Am sure it will help all who read it. As it was recommended to me as a must read, I’m happy to endorse it to others with 5 x Stars.
Absolutely agreeing with you Jay. God bless.
Wow, it hurts my heart just to read what this book is about. Thank God the author Marie found it in her heart to forgive, Thanks to our Awesome God. Forgiving is good for the soul, for our health and well being. With God All things are Possible. I also think this book would be very therapeutic especially to people that have gone through hard traumas which make it so very hard to forgive somebody. I Love the book cover, it is Beautiful! God Bless you for sharing your story Marie, and Thank you for sharing this interview.
Hi Alicia. Yes it was difficult to read – absolutely heartbreaking. However I also couldn’t put it down. We do have an awesome God. I love the cover also. Thank you for commenting and God bless.