JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. - s4story -- A new Christian devotional book brings to light the unspoken issues and struggles of infertility—a problem that potentially affects more women than breast cancer does.

Local author Nancy Canestrari Williams, who herself experienced difficulty in having children, has released "A Crocus in the Desert," which features devotions and prayers along with personal stories from others who have walked this road of frustration and sorrow. The book is now available on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble and Books-A-Million, and through other bookstores.

"Mayo Clinic estimates that as many as one in six couples experience infertility," Williams says. "It's more common than you would expect. But when women go through this, they often suffer in silence. It's not an easy subject for us to discuss because it's so personal."

Williams interviewed both women and men to get their stories and perspectives on coping with emotions, extended family conversations, treatments, and financial strains that infertility can place on the marriage relationship. She includes their advice (all with names changed for anonymity) and provides options for prayer and reflection.

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"Going through childlessness, miscarriage, and the repercussions of abortion can be very traumatic," Williams continues. "Emotions run the gamut from despair and grief to anger and conflict. Budgeting, dealing with in-laws, healthcare, and careers can all be affected…all while hormone changes can send you on the roller coaster ride of your life."

Williams chose the "crocus" title from Isaiah 35:1-2, Bible verses that offer hope for those who feel as if they are walking through a barren wasteland.

"My chief purpose in writing this book is to come alongside these women and reassure them that they are not alone," she says. "They have a heavenly Friend in Jesus Christ who walks beside them every step of the way. And if they open their hearts to receive help, they'll find many other women at church or among friends and family who have dealt with these very same issues."

The book is also appropriate for medical professionals, pastors, counselors, and family members who want to understand how infertility affects couples.

Williams is a veteran writer and Milligan College instructor whose work has appeared in national magazines, corporate communications, advertising, and local media over the years.

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"A Crocus in the Desert" is available for purchase online in e-book format and paperback version from amazon.com (https://www.amazon.com/Crocus-Desert-Devotions-Experiencing-Infertility/dp/1733123105/ref=sr_1_3?crid=LRRRUDK92FB&keywords=crocus+desert+book+nancy&qid=1562865853&s=gateway&sprefix=crocus+desert%2Caps%2C160&sr=8-3)and in paperback at barnesandnoble.com and booksamillion.com.

For more information on the book or author, go to lightbournecreative.com. Profits from book sales will be donated to Agape Women's Services of Johnson City, Daughters of Bulgaria, and Bethany Christian Services, all Christian ministries serving women.