T H E P U N I S H I N G S
A Novel By
H. R. Bellicosa
Imagine a world where saving women’s lives puts your own life in jeopardy.
Jane Dupre lives in the Southerly State, an area governed by oppressive rule since the separation of the former United States of America. At the beginning of the twenty-second century, it is a place filled with staunch nationalism and fervent religion, where the rights of the Unborn are protected above all else. Jane works in an overcrowded, underfunded orphanage, but she also covertly assists women with unwanted pregnancies in her secluded home on the Louisiana bayou. These women have no safe, legal options and many would harm themselves in desperation without Jane’s intervention.
When Jane’s two very different worlds collide, she finds herself faced with an incendiary decision. As the consequences of her actions spiral out of control, Jane realizes she may have put herself in more peril than those she is trying to save.
“Captivating…A much-needed book for our time.” -Readers’ Favorite
“Gripping, page-turning tension...You won’t be able to put this book down.”— L. Ryan Storms, Author of “A Thousand Years To Wait”
Awarded the Coveted Five Star Readers’ Favorite Award
H.R. Bellicosa loves book clubs. To request a FREE virtual book club with the author, please fill out the contact form at the top of this page to begin the scheduling process. List three possible dates and times to help get the conversation started. Click on The Punishings Pinterest Book Club Ideas for recipes and storyboards to enhance your book club experience.
The Reading Group Guide at the back of the book has questions to inspire thoughtful debate and discussion as well.
Photo Credit: Quillamaio Press
A portion of proceeds from this novel will be donated to charities of the author’s choice that fight for civil liberties for all citizens of the United States, including but not limited to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
About H. R. Bellicosa
H. R. Bellicosa is a writer, avid traveler and most importantly, a proud mom. She lives with her husband, son, a sweet dog, and a cantankerous cat, all of whom make her laugh every day.
About Quillamaio Press
Merging the English “quill” and the Italian “calamaio” (inkpot), Quillamaio Press was founded in 2021 as an independent publishing house with a purpose greater than simply producing books. Like many indie presses, we are not motivated by profit, but by the impact our books can have in the world we live in. Our writers have committed to donating a portion of their profit to causes highlighted in their novels. At Quillamaio Press we are proud of our books and even prouder that their impact goes beyond the reader.
Photo Credit: Quillamaio Press