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A strong woman describes her spiritual journey and vital connection with her formerly imprisoned husband. The author married as a young woman, but her spouse grew increasingly abusive and threatening until their union ended in divorce. Afterward, she struggled to survive. She met Gregory, a convicted kidnapper/murderer, while teaching mathematics in a prison. She sensed a deep connection with this man who seemed to have a special insight into Christian belief. As a somewhat sheltered white woman, she was astounded to realize that black men like Gregory might spend their lives in a maximum-security prison without committing the crimes they were accused of. As their unusual relationship blossomed through short visits and heartfelt letters, so too did Oliver's determination to reveal the system's flaws and free the man she had chosen as her mate while he was still incarcerated.
Oliver's memoir explores the development of her religious understanding and her love for Gregory. Also, it sets forth the thorny aspects of a system that can, unjustly, keep such a man behind bars. Much of the book focuses on the general injustice, particularly targeting black men, frequently encountered in the judicial framework. Though Gregory is now released, thanks to their combined efforts, the couple still seeks to have his name exonerated, as is only fair based on the real evidence they have gathered and presented here. Oliver stands out as someone who accepted Christian doctrine through her intelligence and sustained it with fervor, took on single motherhood and self-support with few resources, and became the favorite tutor of numerous imprisoned men. She staunchly stands beside her husband despite the complex problems that they both must face. Their story is inspirational and should be shared with anyone battling tough odds while maintaining faith in positive, blessed outcomes.