The Waters of Awakening - In the shadows of the Smoky Mountains, a young traveler named Arieh sets out on a journey that tests his strength, stirs his spirit, and awakens his soul. Guided by visions and whispers of an ancient lake hidden deep within the wilderness, he walks a path marked by hardship, betrayal, and loss-yet along the way discovers healing, grace and love. Traveling the storied Unicoi Turnpike and venturing into the perilous wilds of the Nantahala, Arieh learns that every step draws him closer not only to the mystical waters he seeks, but also to the truth of his identity-and to the God who leads him forward. Woven with adventure, Cherokee legend, timeless truths, and the life-changing power of forgiveness and redemption, The Waters of Awakening is a tale of courage and calling. It is the story of a man learning to trust the One who guides him-awakening to a destiny far greater than his own.
About the AuthorMulliner, Brian A.: - Brian Mulliner is a daydreamer, nature enthusiast, and spiritual seeker whose journey has been shaped by wonder, grief, and grace. A lifelong lover of the outdoors, Brian draws his deepest inspiration from the quiet beauty of mountain trails, forest paths, and the rhythm of the natural world. His writing reflects his Christian faith, his connection to the land, and his belief in the transformative power of grace, healing, and personal awakening. Brian's books, The Enchanted Forest and The Waters of Awakening, were born out of a season of deep introspection and renewal. Woven with rich symbolism and scriptural truths, his stories invite readers on a journey of identity, surrender, and hope. His characters echo his own search for meaning, shaped by childhood wounds, quiet revelations, and the steady pull of a divine calling.A devoted husband to Linda Sue for over three decades, Brian's life is rooted in love, resilience, and a shared reverence for creation. Together, they have walked through seasons of caregiving, loss, and healing-especially following the passing of Brian's father, whose final days were filled with treasured memories and sacred moments. Guided by mentors who helped him untangle the mysteries of the Gospel and the complexities of the ego, Brian writes not just to tell stories but to invite others to awaken. His background in theology, psychology, and the inner life shapes his thoughtful prose and redemptive themes. Whether hiking through the Smoky Mountains, reflecting by a gentle stream, or crafting his next chapter, Brian continues to listen for the still, small voice that first called him to write... and to awaken.
James, Joseph: - Dr. Joseph James is a devoted father of two wonderful adult daughters and a man whose life is deeply shaped by faith. He embraces every opportunity to spend time outdoors, where he finds both renewal and perspective. Committed to living with vitality, Joseph makes fitness a priority, focusing more on exercise than diet, so he can remain strong for all that life still has to offer. He also enjoys the challenge and camaraderie of board games, provided there is enough cognitive bandwidth at the end of the day. Joseph's faith not only defines who he is but also guides what he does, influencing both his personal choices and professional calling. In 2010, he earned his doctorate in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, launching a career that has included consulting and leadership roles in major corporations as well as public service dedicated to supporting small businesses in North Carolina. Through his work, he combines a passion for people, organizational health, and community impact with a steady commitment to servant leadership.