Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers’ Favorite
In Sandra L. Huska's Think of the Sunflower, Nikee Madison travels from Pittsburgh to rural Pennsylvania for her twentieth high school reunion, expecting an uncomfortable weekend. Instead, a locked metal box hidden in her late mother’s attic leads her toward a buried secret connected to a missing child abandoned decades earlier at a suburban shopping mall. As Nikee searches for answers about her identity, her closest friend Trisha becomes involved with Noah, a university astronomer investigating strange activity in deep space. Their separate searches gradually intersect through mysterious encounters, hidden documents, ancient theories, and warnings from an elderly woman named Sarah Ginn, who claims humanity is at a turning point tied to forgotten knowledge about Earth’s past. What begins as one woman’s attempt to understand her origins slowly expands into something far larger than any of them expected.
Sandra L. Huska’s Think of the Sunflower digs into how ordinary people react when long-buried secrets suddenly collide with ideas capable of altering everything they believe about human history. The sunflower is linked to a toddler's shirt, becoming more than a clue connected to Nikee's past. What gives the novel its strongest footing is placing speculative astronomy beside familiar American life, and the author does this in a way that keeps the material accessible. No bloated language, and no loquacious information dumps. I love Noah and his obsessive study of mathematical diagrams hidden inside a weathered briefcase, followed very closely by the brilliant Sarah Ginn, who steadily reshapes how all the central characters interpret humanity’s origins. Wait until you get inside President James Garfield’s memorial tomb! Readers who enjoy intelligent and deeply immersive speculative fiction with plenty of mystery and twists will love this book. It definitely gave me plenty to think about. Very highly recommended.
In Sandra L. Huska's Think of the Sunflower, Nikee Madison travels from Pittsburgh to rural Pennsylvania for her twentieth high school reunion, expecting an uncomfortable weekend. Instead, a locked metal box hidden in her late mother’s attic leads her toward a buried secret connected to a missing child abandoned decades earlier at a suburban shopping mall. As Nikee searches for answers about her identity, her closest friend Trisha becomes involved with Noah, a university astronomer investigating strange activity in deep space. Their separate searches gradually intersect through mysterious encounters, hidden documents, ancient theories, and warnings from an elderly woman named Sarah Ginn, who claims humanity is at a turning point tied to forgotten knowledge about Earth’s past. What begins as one woman’s attempt to understand her origins slowly expands into something far larger than any of them expected.
Sandra L. Huska’s Think of the Sunflower digs into how ordinary people react when long-buried secrets suddenly collide with ideas capable of altering everything they believe about human history. The sunflower is linked to a toddler's shirt, becoming more than a clue connected to Nikee's past. What gives the novel its strongest footing is placing speculative astronomy beside familiar American life, and the author does this in a way that keeps the material accessible. No bloated language, and no loquacious information dumps. I love Noah and his obsessive study of mathematical diagrams hidden inside a weathered briefcase, followed very closely by the brilliant Sarah Ginn, who steadily reshapes how all the central characters interpret humanity’s origins. Wait until you get inside President James Garfield’s memorial tomb! Readers who enjoy intelligent and deeply immersive speculative fiction with plenty of mystery and twists will love this book. It definitely gave me plenty to think about. Very highly recommended.
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers’ Favorite
Nikee Madison is a thirty-something-year-old who unexpectedly discovers a photo in an attic box that will alter her life in Sandra L. Huska’s Think of the Sunflower. She has lived an ordinary life, like most people, trusting her parents, afraid of getting breast cancer like her mother, and absorbed in her work and friendships. A box in the attic reveals a baby picture that takes her in search of her roots and what happened before the adoption, and a half-sister she never knew existed. Meanwhile, her friend Trisha and Noah are busy investigating anomalies in the sky. Trisha has always been obsessed with metaphysical phenomena, and with Noah, they discover Zecharia Sitchin’s theories about an approaching planet, Nibiru, and the Anunnaki. The friends must create a dimensional portal to transport humanity to a new Earth. But are they ready for this complex mission?
Sandra L. Huska’s novel is a visionary tale with complex characters. I liked Nikee the most, and I particularly enjoyed how the author uses her story to introduce a compelling premise. Discovering that everything one has been told about their life was a lie is a strong foundation for an intriguing tale, and it infuses the story with motivation as Nikee searches for the truth about her identity. The subplot introduces elements of metaphysics and science fiction and made me think about other powers at play in the universe. Think of the Sunflower is about the power of forgiveness, the courage to face one’s true identity, and the fate of humanity in a world facing powerful cosmic forces. With a finely drawn setting that paints vivid images of urban Pittsburgh, the farmlands of Kansas, and the haunting history of Gettysburg, this character-driven story offers a lot of entertainment.
Nikee Madison is a thirty-something-year-old who unexpectedly discovers a photo in an attic box that will alter her life in Sandra L. Huska’s Think of the Sunflower. She has lived an ordinary life, like most people, trusting her parents, afraid of getting breast cancer like her mother, and absorbed in her work and friendships. A box in the attic reveals a baby picture that takes her in search of her roots and what happened before the adoption, and a half-sister she never knew existed. Meanwhile, her friend Trisha and Noah are busy investigating anomalies in the sky. Trisha has always been obsessed with metaphysical phenomena, and with Noah, they discover Zecharia Sitchin’s theories about an approaching planet, Nibiru, and the Anunnaki. The friends must create a dimensional portal to transport humanity to a new Earth. But are they ready for this complex mission?
Sandra L. Huska’s novel is a visionary tale with complex characters. I liked Nikee the most, and I particularly enjoyed how the author uses her story to introduce a compelling premise. Discovering that everything one has been told about their life was a lie is a strong foundation for an intriguing tale, and it infuses the story with motivation as Nikee searches for the truth about her identity. The subplot introduces elements of metaphysics and science fiction and made me think about other powers at play in the universe. Think of the Sunflower is about the power of forgiveness, the courage to face one’s true identity, and the fate of humanity in a world facing powerful cosmic forces. With a finely drawn setting that paints vivid images of urban Pittsburgh, the farmlands of Kansas, and the haunting history of Gettysburg, this character-driven story offers a lot of entertainment.
Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers’ Favorite
Sandra L. Huska’s Think of the Sunflower is a spellbinding metaphysical thriller that introduces thirty-seven-year-old Nikee Madison. Her life is ordered and ordinary, but the discovery of a box in her father’s attic strips her instantly of what she has hitherto considered normalcy. Knowing that her father isn’t her true father is a disturbing premise to start with. Now she is on the quest to unravel her past and reconnect with her biological parents. This quest gets tangled with her best friend’s journey. Trisha is obsessed with metaphysics, and they are joined by Noah, an astronomer who has made startling discoveries about mankind’s origins and an impending catastrophe. Can they stop a gravitational catastrophe, or help the enlightened escape through the portal, and will Nikee uncover the truth she craves to learn?
This novel is utterly engaging and suspenseful. Sandra L. Huska builds suspense with Nikee’s story. Nikee made me think about rationalized skepticism, and I was very interested in the way she gradually opened up to mystical possibilities. With his intelligence and rigor in science, Noah eventually validates the theories championed by Trisha. Think of the Sunflower delivered powerful existential lessons, underlining the fact that truth liberates, even if it is painful, and the story advocates for spiritual evolution through the cleverly plotted journeys of the characters. Sandra L. Huska uses the sunflower as a metaphor for spiritual alignment and the “73% rule” as pragmatic philosophy. The storytelling was excellent, the voice gripping, and the story is deliberately paced and delivered with twists that kept me racing through the pages.
Sandra L. Huska’s Think of the Sunflower is a spellbinding metaphysical thriller that introduces thirty-seven-year-old Nikee Madison. Her life is ordered and ordinary, but the discovery of a box in her father’s attic strips her instantly of what she has hitherto considered normalcy. Knowing that her father isn’t her true father is a disturbing premise to start with. Now she is on the quest to unravel her past and reconnect with her biological parents. This quest gets tangled with her best friend’s journey. Trisha is obsessed with metaphysics, and they are joined by Noah, an astronomer who has made startling discoveries about mankind’s origins and an impending catastrophe. Can they stop a gravitational catastrophe, or help the enlightened escape through the portal, and will Nikee uncover the truth she craves to learn?
This novel is utterly engaging and suspenseful. Sandra L. Huska builds suspense with Nikee’s story. Nikee made me think about rationalized skepticism, and I was very interested in the way she gradually opened up to mystical possibilities. With his intelligence and rigor in science, Noah eventually validates the theories championed by Trisha. Think of the Sunflower delivered powerful existential lessons, underlining the fact that truth liberates, even if it is painful, and the story advocates for spiritual evolution through the cleverly plotted journeys of the characters. Sandra L. Huska uses the sunflower as a metaphor for spiritual alignment and the “73% rule” as pragmatic philosophy. The storytelling was excellent, the voice gripping, and the story is deliberately paced and delivered with twists that kept me racing through the pages.
Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers’ Favorite
For some, discovering their true identity can have unexpected consequences. In that context, Think of the Sunflower by Sandra L. Huska introduces Nikee Madison, aged 37, who ponders a picture of herself as a baby with some unease. Looking for answers in the family attic, she finds a mysterious metal box that belonged to her late mother. Nikee makes a startling discovery about herself. It leads her on a search for the truth. She is joined by Trish, her close friend and colleague, who understands metaphysics. They meet Noah, an astronomer, after a client meeting. Interesting conversations follow, covering diverse topics that include UFOs, secret societies, climate change, the Fibonacci series of numbers, Zecharia Sitchin, planet X, as well as end times predictions. As Nikee uncovers who she is and learns her real name, it changes everything. She is forced to evaluate past and present relationships with her parents, school sweetheart, and current partner. She concludes that she had been living in an illusion with false expectations and out of step with changing social norms. Joined by Kenny, the friends are led by a series of events and the mysterious Sarah to information that could have far-reaching consequences.
What is the fate of humanity, and what is our role in it? Sandra L. Huska skillfully integrates this philosophical question with an intriguing story of individuals brought together synchronistically, bound by a common desire to discover the truth about themselves and the greater universe. As Nikee explores her traumatic origins, she gradually accepts her gifts and talents, using them to open new possibilities for herself and humanity. Think of the Sunflower takes its theme from an old saying often quoted by Nikee’s mother. She maintained that sunflowers always turn toward the light. This theme provides hope and inspiration. The book offers a chance for readers to reflect and evolve. It is about finding purpose and making a difference through forgiveness, self-acceptance, and choices. This can bring awakening, but the transition can be challenging. The writings of Zecharia Sitchin and Dolores Cannon are an accepted part of metaphysical literature and feature prominently. They provide the basis for revelations about our ancient origins and the world to come. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. While written as fiction, it serves as an introduction to alternative thinking, as well as providing a thought-provoking and entertaining read.
For some, discovering their true identity can have unexpected consequences. In that context, Think of the Sunflower by Sandra L. Huska introduces Nikee Madison, aged 37, who ponders a picture of herself as a baby with some unease. Looking for answers in the family attic, she finds a mysterious metal box that belonged to her late mother. Nikee makes a startling discovery about herself. It leads her on a search for the truth. She is joined by Trish, her close friend and colleague, who understands metaphysics. They meet Noah, an astronomer, after a client meeting. Interesting conversations follow, covering diverse topics that include UFOs, secret societies, climate change, the Fibonacci series of numbers, Zecharia Sitchin, planet X, as well as end times predictions. As Nikee uncovers who she is and learns her real name, it changes everything. She is forced to evaluate past and present relationships with her parents, school sweetheart, and current partner. She concludes that she had been living in an illusion with false expectations and out of step with changing social norms. Joined by Kenny, the friends are led by a series of events and the mysterious Sarah to information that could have far-reaching consequences.
What is the fate of humanity, and what is our role in it? Sandra L. Huska skillfully integrates this philosophical question with an intriguing story of individuals brought together synchronistically, bound by a common desire to discover the truth about themselves and the greater universe. As Nikee explores her traumatic origins, she gradually accepts her gifts and talents, using them to open new possibilities for herself and humanity. Think of the Sunflower takes its theme from an old saying often quoted by Nikee’s mother. She maintained that sunflowers always turn toward the light. This theme provides hope and inspiration. The book offers a chance for readers to reflect and evolve. It is about finding purpose and making a difference through forgiveness, self-acceptance, and choices. This can bring awakening, but the transition can be challenging. The writings of Zecharia Sitchin and Dolores Cannon are an accepted part of metaphysical literature and feature prominently. They provide the basis for revelations about our ancient origins and the world to come. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. While written as fiction, it serves as an introduction to alternative thinking, as well as providing a thought-provoking and entertaining read.
Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers’ Favorite
In Sandra L. Huska’s Think of the Sunflower, thirty-seven-year-old Nikee Madison’s life begins to unravel when she discovers a baby picture locked in an attic box. But what does a picture have to do with anything? The picture is of a small girl, wearing a shirt with a sunflower, who was abandoned in a Pittsburgh suburban mall years ago. Nikee wants to know about the toddler and her parents. Her quest unveils deep secrets about her identity. Meanwhile, her best friend, Trisha, who has always had a knack for metaphysical stuff, is on her own quest with her boyfriend, Noah, and an astronomer, as they investigate anomalies that reveal translations of Sumerian cuneiform. They also discover a shocking truth about humanity and their connection to aliens and the planet Nibiru, which is returning to destroy Earth. A portal might be the only way out for the enlightened to find refuge in another dimension. Can the enlightened escape what is ahead?
Think of the Sunflower was a great read, and while I enjoyed the science fiction part of the story, Nikee’s story had a compelling premise. Discovering that one’s minister father has been hiding the truth can be disturbing, and it constitutes a basis for a strong psychological thriller. The author captures Nikee’s curiosity and confusion cleverly in the story, and her search for answers creates the suspense that makes the story a page-turner. This book explores what happens when we have to face uncomfortable truths. Sandra L. Huska’s characters are sophisticated. Trisha fascinated me with her “woo-woo” intuition, while Noah’s scientific skepticism drives the inquiry into metaphysical questions. The author successfully blended elements of science fiction and psychological thriller to create a page-turner.
In Sandra L. Huska’s Think of the Sunflower, thirty-seven-year-old Nikee Madison’s life begins to unravel when she discovers a baby picture locked in an attic box. But what does a picture have to do with anything? The picture is of a small girl, wearing a shirt with a sunflower, who was abandoned in a Pittsburgh suburban mall years ago. Nikee wants to know about the toddler and her parents. Her quest unveils deep secrets about her identity. Meanwhile, her best friend, Trisha, who has always had a knack for metaphysical stuff, is on her own quest with her boyfriend, Noah, and an astronomer, as they investigate anomalies that reveal translations of Sumerian cuneiform. They also discover a shocking truth about humanity and their connection to aliens and the planet Nibiru, which is returning to destroy Earth. A portal might be the only way out for the enlightened to find refuge in another dimension. Can the enlightened escape what is ahead?
Think of the Sunflower was a great read, and while I enjoyed the science fiction part of the story, Nikee’s story had a compelling premise. Discovering that one’s minister father has been hiding the truth can be disturbing, and it constitutes a basis for a strong psychological thriller. The author captures Nikee’s curiosity and confusion cleverly in the story, and her search for answers creates the suspense that makes the story a page-turner. This book explores what happens when we have to face uncomfortable truths. Sandra L. Huska’s characters are sophisticated. Trisha fascinated me with her “woo-woo” intuition, while Noah’s scientific skepticism drives the inquiry into metaphysical questions. The author successfully blended elements of science fiction and psychological thriller to create a page-turner.
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers’ Favorite
In The Man Who Couldn't Dream by Sandra L. Huska, Paul Whitmore and his wife, Annie, appear to have the perfect life. Paul is a pragmatic biologist who believes in science, but Annie is the intuitive wife who believes in the supernatural and seeks answers to serious questions in spirituality. They still manage to live together until their daughter, Hannah, dies after the establishment dismisses Annie’s thoughts that she has Morgellons, a disease the medical community refuses to investigate. As their lives spiral into chaos, a second tragedy strikes the couple, and this time, Paul must face his skepticism. He sets out on a pilgrimage to get healing elements: light from a North Carolina light center, water from an Ohio Lourdes shrine, transformative air atop Hurricane Ridge, and earth from Chimayo. An alien entity that believes opposites must unite might be the answer to his quest.
Sandra L. Huska's writing is crisp, capturing the different aspects of the characters like different notes of a symphony. The dialogue conveys the emotional conflict beautifully. The pacing increases in crescendo, starting with the slow meditation on domestic tragedy to a metaphysical thriller with unusual and unexpected UFO encounters. The Wizard of Oz becomes a roadmap in this story, one filled with symbols as Paul’s transformation is underpinned by encounters with a weeping Scarecrow in a chapel, a Courageous Lion social worker, and a jingling Tin Man repairman. The Man Who Couldn't Dream is a philosophical reflection on faith, love, and healing. It is a deftly plotted story with unforgettable characters and worldbuilding that sucks you in completely.
In The Man Who Couldn't Dream by Sandra L. Huska, Paul Whitmore and his wife, Annie, appear to have the perfect life. Paul is a pragmatic biologist who believes in science, but Annie is the intuitive wife who believes in the supernatural and seeks answers to serious questions in spirituality. They still manage to live together until their daughter, Hannah, dies after the establishment dismisses Annie’s thoughts that she has Morgellons, a disease the medical community refuses to investigate. As their lives spiral into chaos, a second tragedy strikes the couple, and this time, Paul must face his skepticism. He sets out on a pilgrimage to get healing elements: light from a North Carolina light center, water from an Ohio Lourdes shrine, transformative air atop Hurricane Ridge, and earth from Chimayo. An alien entity that believes opposites must unite might be the answer to his quest.
Sandra L. Huska's writing is crisp, capturing the different aspects of the characters like different notes of a symphony. The dialogue conveys the emotional conflict beautifully. The pacing increases in crescendo, starting with the slow meditation on domestic tragedy to a metaphysical thriller with unusual and unexpected UFO encounters. The Wizard of Oz becomes a roadmap in this story, one filled with symbols as Paul’s transformation is underpinned by encounters with a weeping Scarecrow in a chapel, a Courageous Lion social worker, and a jingling Tin Man repairman. The Man Who Couldn't Dream is a philosophical reflection on faith, love, and healing. It is a deftly plotted story with unforgettable characters and worldbuilding that sucks you in completely.
