Review: This story will make you a believer
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 09 21, 2013
I've been a fan of Marian Baay's reviews and editorial talents for some time, impressed with her fluency in English as her second language. But she has surprised and delighted me by writing a lovely Civil War short story for the My Blue Heaven collection through Helping Hands Press. "Heaven is Not Far Away" showcases Ms. Baay's skill not only as a storyteller, but also her grasp of history, both American and her native Dutch as well.Her main character, Albert Van Ampting, is an immigrant from the Netherlands to Detroit, Michigan at the time of the American Civil War. His search for a job leads him to the acquaintance of the compelling Miss Michelle Lefèvre. They strike a rapport, and soon he, his trusty Irish Setter Jess, and she explore courtship together on long walks in the Michigan countryside. But their bliss is not to endure--the grim business of war calls him to duty.Though an immigrant, he feels a conviction from his faith to enlist in what he believes a noble cause to free slaves. He and his friend Nathan muster into the 24th Michigan. The climax of the story takes Albert and Michelle to Gettysburg. With great emotion and a master's touch, the writer concludes this tale of faith, duty, romance and beauty in an unexpected way. This is a story to be savored for its unique aspects of a Dutch immigrant hero, a terrific companion dog who plays a major role in the story, and of the abiding love of a faithful wife. It might just have you believing in heaven and miracles before you're done.