In the spring of 2010, I received a package from BookSneeze containing not one, but two copies of Andy Andrews book The Heart Mender. How exciting – I had a book to give away on my blog! It was terrific timing for reading the book (as I enjoyed my first few days with newborn Andrew), but lousy timing for getting a review written and a giveaway done. At last, I am posting the review that has been written in my head for far too long. And you have the opportunity to win a hardcover copy of the book!
The Heart Mender begins with the finding of a can of mementos on the Alabama coast. The uprooting of eight buttons, a badge, a ring, a medal, and three unmarked pictures, one of which contains an infamous visage, triggers a journey of discovery into decades-old secrets. The reader alternates between following the storyteller as he seeks the history behind the mementos and stepping back in time to view the story from the perspective of those who lived it. Weaving a tale of friendships, betrayal, submarines, warfare, and southern secrecy and hospitality, The Heart Mender is a powerful story about forgiveness.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Heart Mender. Andy Andrews is an adept storyteller, and he effectively draws you into the South of both yesterday and today. Helen, Josef, and the surrounding characters are vibrant and real, and he weaves the plot with suspense, romance, and friendship. I found the changes of perspective/time an interesting and effective technique for this story.
My only disappointment with the book was one I felt keenly. I’m not necessarily a fan of books whose intent is to preach. But for an author who writes for a Christian publishing house to write such an engaging book about forgiveness and not even mention the One Whose blood makes forgiveness a possibility? Bummer.
My disappointment with the incompleteness of the message of The Heart Mender does not negate the fact that it was a great read that made me laugh, cry, and contemplate. If you’d like to enter to win a copy, just leave me a comment below. I’m sure you’ll enjoy the read!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Don’t count this as an entry, cause I already have and love the book … but I wanted to say that I fully agree with you about the lack of spiritual content. In fact, I first heard him speak at a WOF conference last year and now I’ve read 3 of his books – which although each one was VERY good, and morally sound and even full of great themes – none of his books {that I’ve read so far} go so far as to actually talk about God. I’m sort of frustrated that they’d choose him as a speaker for WOF and promote his books when they really leave out the most important of points! I guess I’m not surprised that he’s on the NY times best seller list …. for if the books were packed with deep spiritual conten, maybe they wouldn’t be so popular. 🙁
*content* sorry!
Laurel, I have read a few books with this same feeling. Redemption is mentioned, forgiveness obtained, but how can true forgiveness be found without the Creator of forgiveness, without a hint of nail scarred hands?
All that said, I would love to win a copy of a book that is so well written. 😉
Hi Laurel, this sounds good, I haven’t been on the sight long and I’ve just started reading books and enjoying them last summer. And Booksneeze has helped open my mind. In children I was a wall child in the hospital alot, I was sexual abused as a child so I didn’t comperhind very well, now at age 50 I’m making myself learn more about books. I went back to school and now I’m a substitute teacher and like reading books even though I don’t remember them all the time. And I love teaching the kids to read. Thanks
I have read Andy’s book, The Traveler’s Gift, and enjoyed it and would love to have another of his books. Thanks for sharing about it.
I would love to read this month. I am a 37 year old widow who just lost my husband one month ago. He was only 38 years old. I think this book would be very healing for my heart 🙂 Thanks.
As you know, I love books – especially good books that I can save to re-read or share. I’m sure I would enjoy reading a new author, but there are others who probably need the book more than I do. As always so many books, so little time!!!
I neglected to mention a drawing date, so we’ll give one more day. One of my Blessings will draw a name tomorrow night!
Joyce Griffith is our winner! Please contact me at admin(at)grace-and-glory(dot)net and I’ll get you set up with your new book.
Thanks for entering, everyone.