Review: An Inspiring Message and Story!
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 09 21, 2013
Promising new author Marian Baay, writes her debut novel `Heaven Is Not Far' with flair, and the proficiency of a more accomplished writer. This is a beautiful love story that embraces the heart that's called to serve God and the strength of a deep and passionate devotion between a man and the love of his life.Handsome Albert Van Ampting has travelled to America from the Netherlands with his faithful Irish Red Setter Jessie, to begin a new life in this new land of great promise. He is headed for the Holland colony in Michigan with the other Dutch immigrants; however they are delayed in Detroit due to bad weather. Deciding to spend the winter in Detroit, Albert needs to look for work and while searching for employment, he discovers something of a far greater worth at the Mercantile. Capturing his attention and his heart was the exquisitely beautiful young woman, Michelle Lefevre, who completely mesmerizes and enchants Albert. The following day he obtains a job and soon thereafter begins a breathtaking courtship with Michelle who became his `heaven on earth' and his devoted wife.Although he was not required to join the fight, it's not long before Albert feels the calling from God to enlist in the battle between the States. The raw, penetrating pain of separation from his beloved new wife is only eased a little by the knowledge that it was the Lord that had called him, and that Jessie was able to accompany him to the harrowing battlefield. He keeps in touch with Michelle through heartfelt letters, but in July of 1863, having been severely wounded and with fever rampaging through his body, his last letter to his wife was written by a fellow soldier as Albert dictated to him. Michelle is encouraged by that soldier to come quickly to say her farewell. When Michelle finally arrives, will she be too late to say goodbye to the love of her life?The strength and beauty of this captivating novella is found in the endearing and vivid characters, the romance that purely sizzles, and the well-executed story that effortlessly flows from page to page. An inspiring message of following your calling, rounds off this compelling story by Marian which was an absolute pleasure to read. Waiting in anticipation of Marian Baay's next story!!