In one of America's most notorious prisons, a young man sentenced to life without parole miraculously found faith, forgiveness, redemption, and restoration. In 27 Summers Ronald Olivier shares his dramatic and powerful story and offers proof that God can bring healing and hope to even the darkest circumstances.

As a teenager Ronald Olivier ran wild in the streets of New Orleans, selling drugs, stealing cars, and finally killing someone on what was supposed to be the happiest day of the year--Christmas Day. Facing the consequences of his crime, he remembered what his mother once said. "Baby, if you ever have real trouble, the kind that I can't get you out of, you can always call on Jesus." So he did.

Ron was sentenced to life in prison without parole. Through the agony of solitary confinement and multiple transfers into increasingly dangerous prison environments, Ron kept seeking God for healing and hope. Finally, after being locked up for twenty-seven summers at the notorious Louisiana State Penitentiary--known as Angola--Ron was miraculously released. Remarkably, he became the director of chaplains at Mississippi State Penitentiary. Today, Ron loves to combat hopelessness, wherever he finds it, by saying, "Don't tell me what God can't do!"

Readers will

• learn new insights about faith and patience from a man who spent almost three decades in a cruel and violent environment;
• be encouraged, like Ron, to find grace and forgiveness to overcome the pain of their past; and
• find hope that God can redeem and restore anyone.

Ron's fascinating story brilliantly displays God's power to transform individuals, families, and communities, reminding us that there truly is nothing God can't do.

About the Author
Ronald Olivier served twenty-seven summers in the notorious Louisiana State Penitentiary, known as Angola. He was released in 2018, and became a client of the Louisiana Parole Project. In 2020, less than two years after leaving Angola, Ronald was hired as the director of chaplaincy at the Mississippi State Penitentiary. In 2023 Ronald returned to the Louisiana Parole Project as a client advocate, using his experience to guide other formerly incarcerated people toward successful careers and lives. He lives in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with his wife and son. Craig Borlase is a New York Times bestselling writer, specializing in crafting dramatic, engaging memoirs. Recent work includes the international and New York Times bestseller Finding Gobi and My Name is Tani. Films of both books are currently in development.

Reviews
27 Summers is an incredible journey into the power of redemption. Ronald Olivier's story takes us on a rollercoaster from his wild youth in the streets of New Orleans to the Louisiana State Penitentiary, where he finds salvation and solace through faith in God. This book is an inspiring tale that shows how even in our darkest moments, we can find hope, peace, and freedom if we choose to turn to God. Ronald is a great example to others that anyone seeking God and redemption can find his way out of the pits of hell-- from a life of crime and prison-- and into a life of helping others. 27 Summers is a must- read. * Commissioner Burl Cain, Mississippi Department of Corrections *
Gritty, terrifying yet truly uplifting! * Bear Grylls, adventurer and author of Never Give Up and Mud, Sweat, and Tears *
I first met Ronald Olivier in prison. An experience I thought I would never take part in. Since meeting Ronald and learning about his story, I've wanted nothing more than for the world to hear it and meet the man who inspired me. 27 Summers will change your perspective on life, faith, and love. Ronald did that for me. His story will do the same for you. I can't wait for you to read about Ronald and learn what I learned: that change is not only possible but also probable when you encounter Jesus. Thank you Slim, for sharing your story with the world. We need it. * Sam Acho, author, speaker, and ESPN analyst *
Ronnie Slim is a living testimony to God's redemptive power. In the depths of one of America's most notorious prisons, he discovered unimaginable healing, hope, and God's purpose for his life. 27 Summers tells the story of God's abounding love, proving that even in the darkest of circumstances, He is with us and provides a way out. * Len Vanden Bos, chaplain for the Buffalo Bills *
This inspiring, powerful, and important memoir is so timely as we continue to reckon with decades of over- incarceration and excessive punishment. Ron Olivier makes redemption accessible to us all. * Bryan Stevenson, author of Just Mercy *
This inviting, encouraging, and inspiring book is the read you've been wait-ing for! Ronald Olivier's journey of flaws and failures led to a life of faith and unusual triumph. 27 Summers beckons you to step behind prison walls with Ronnie and experience freedom born of God's grace and mercy, proof that He never counts anyone out. * Dr. Leslie Draper III, board certified senior clinical chaplain and mayor of Simmesport, Louisiana *
This is one of the most compelling comeback stories you will ever read. It will hold your attention on every page-- and ultimately lead you to your knees in wonder, love, and praise. Hugely recommended! * Matt Redman, GRAMMY Award- winning worship leader and songwriter and author *



Book Information
ISBN 9781400239122
Author Ronald Olivier
Format Hardback
Page Count 224
Imprint Thomas Nelson Publishers
Publisher Thomas Nelson Publishers
Weight(grams) 317g
Dimensions(mm) 219mm * 146mm * 21mm