James Asparro

Salt of the Earth, A Portland Story James Asparro

Ben Dawson, a widowed pastor, takes a bullet from an assault rifle triggered by an anti-abortion protester at a women's health clinic; further unanticipated events land him in the national spotlight. Colorful characters, including a brilliant and glamorous woman, are influenced by Ben's local progressive church, at which people of all spiritualities find purpose and meaning. Woven into the story are romance, adventure on the high seas, and a sensational dog. Salt of the earth brings to light social issues such as women's reproductive rights, addictions, gun violence, wealth distribution, and gender equality. Villains scheme to bring heroes down. Who will win? From Salt of the Earth: "The alarm went off at 6:00 a.m. Why do I do this? Ben thought. I promised her I would take her to the clinic today. I'm the only friend who knows her story. She can't take a cab there. Megan is alone and scared. I would rather do anything but get this involved, but here I am. The last time I asked God how I could help, I ended up in the Philippines living next to a dump. Now, I guess there's a woman who needs some support."