By Way of the Wilderness by Pansy (1841 - 1930) and Mrs. C. M. Livingston (1832 - 1924)

Wayne Pierson can’t remember a time when his life was easy. Enemies in the form of a stepmother and stepbrother have come between Wayne and his father, and now he is without a home. His one ally is his Aunt Crete, but even she can't be told everything. Wayne can never forgive the people who made his life a misery. But with his heart so full of bitterness, can there ever be room in his heart for Christ - or for real, pure love?

Some people, it seems, must go through life "by way of the wilderness" - through the really difficult paths, until they learn their own inadequacy and the pride is subdued, so that they can finally embrace the God they so need. - Summary by TriciaG

NOTE: The emotional abuse portrayed in the first few chapters of this story may be disturbing to regular listeners of Pansy.