Reviewed by Cheryl E. Rodriguez for Readers' Favorite

Tina Clough writes an unforgettable story in The Chinese Proverb. While taking a break and relaxing at his cabin in the New Zealand bush, Hunter’s peaceful retreat is interrupted by an unbelievable discovery. Enjoying their evening walk, Hunter and his loyal dog, Scruff, find a young woman on the brink of death. Dao had escaped from her Master, she had run away to find “somewhere to lie down and die.” Dao had been enslaved and abused by a barbaric evil man for years. Hunter and Scruff take Dao under their protective care. Uncertain of the degree of danger involved, Hunter feels responsible for her. Little by little, Dao tells the story of her life. The more Hunter learns, the more entangled their lives become. The next fifteen days would change his life forever.

The Chinese Proverb begins with an engaging narrative hook, and continues to reel the reader in right up to the end. Tina Clough’s writing is smooth and flows from page to page. But held within this effortless writing style is a plot with twists and turns that keep you on the edge. With this story written in first person, you become in tune with the heart and soul of the hero. He is tough, virile, smart, and extremely courageous. The young heroine is labeled the “warrior girl,” which sums up her personality perfectly. Although victimized, she becomes a victor. Both of the main characters grow and evolve as people, making them dynamic characters. The suspense escalates with the obscurity of the villain - who is this masked man?However, Clough steadily prepares you for the imminent showdown. When good and evil collide, hope emerges with the camaraderie of the supporting cast. The story stays on course with its underlying theme: “If you save someone’s life, you are responsible for them forever.” The Chinese Proverb is more than engaging and entertaining; it strengthens your resolve to be a defender of the abused.