Sticks and Stones - Arnold Shellie

Mere days away from realizing her lifelong dream of singing professionally, Julie Matthews awakes in a hospital room unable to speak. Since childhood, she has felt closest to God when singing. Now her dreams and God suddenly seem distant.

Rick Matthews supports his ambitious wife, but has no solution for the constant tension between them. As Julie slowly recovers her voice, their marriage undergoes a wonderful change -- one that allows Julie and Rick to rediscover each other and their love.

But as her voice grows stronger, the years of unhealthy habits and patterns from eight years of marriage begin to pull them apart. On the cusp of reaching her dream -- their dream -- Julie and Rick are forced to reevaluate their feelings for each other and consider how their hurtful words have affected their children.

Sticks and stones may break bones, but words can crush the spirit of love.