Grit & Grace

The Transformation of a Ship & a Soul

By: Deborah Rudell

Narrated by: Deborah Rudell

Deborah Rudell’s world unravels when the leaders of her spiritual commune are exposed, arrested, and imprisoned for bio-terrorism and attempted murder. Crushed and adrift, she moves her family off the commune to create a sense of normalcy. But when her husband seeks an opportunity to dismantle and rebuild a derelict fifty-foot schooner, Deborah uproots their children once again and joins him in Kauai. For the next five years, she dedicates her life to restoring a boat.

Pouring herself into the work at hand can only distract her so much as disillusionment about the cult’s lies and manipulation slowly rises to the surface. While she grapples with emotional turmoil and contemplates a new life path, Deborah sets out to accomplish something she never thought possible: sailing across the Pacific to the Olympic Peninsula. Will the dangers that come with navigating the ocean be too much to bear, or will she find resolution and fortitude in the turbulent adventure?

Grit & Grace: The Transformation of a Ship & a Soul is one woman’s account of conquering overwhelming challenges with tenacity and ingenuity and ultimately discovering her inner strength.

©2025 Deborah Rudell (P)2025 Deborah Rudell

Critic reviews

"Engaging and informative, with moments of great excitement—but also disturbing and weighted with angst." — Kirkus Reviews

Gripping Story

I loved how much action and excitement were transfered by your words and your voice. I was truly transported to the desert and the sea and everywhere in between on this journey of a boat and a Soul. Thank you for the wisdom you imparted along the way.