The surviving child had survived again . . . Why had I been spared now, when the last two carjack victims in this hospital had not? When my own brother had not? . . . I hesitated even to put shape to the idea forming in my head. Was there a divine purpose that required my life be spared?

South African journalist Monica Brunetti had it all -- promising career, loving family, marriage-minded boyfriend. Then, a life-changing encounter with evil landed her in a hospital bed next to a gregarious, charismatic Ella Nkhoma, whose wit and caring challenged Monica's worldview. Their remarkable friendship would lead Monica far from the gated white suburbs, and toward a parting that left both women transformed . . . and Monica the mother of two sons.

Set against the dynamic patchwork of South Africa, The Road to Home is an inspriing story of love, courage and everyday miracles.

Vanessa Del Fabbro, born and rasied in South Africa, worked as a print and radio journalist before writing The Road to Home, her first novel. She lives in Houston with her husband and young daughter.