Not in the Heart by Chris Fabry

I've read a number of Chris Fabry's books, and I have to say that I am a big fan.  His stories give such a vivid picture of people and living.  In Not in the Heart, Truman Wiley is separated from his family with no job and huge debt caused not only by his personal gambling problem, but also his son's rising hospital bills.  Ellen Wiley is caring for their son and daughter on her own and weary of Truman's addiction and the problems it has caused, but she is not ready to give up on him yet.  She calls Truman with a job opportunity--to write a memoir of a convicted murderer sentenced to die in one month.  The man is married to a good friend of Ellen's, and they still profess his innocence.  The biggest catch, though, is that this man wants to donate his heart to Truman's son upon his execution.

Truman's addiction has hurt everyone in his life; relationships are strained, to say the very least.  He has so much potential but is fighting what looks to be a losing battle with his demons.  Collectors are stalking him, and he loses both his house and his car.  He is both selfish and struggling, hurting but hurtful.  He is so real.  This is part of what makes Fabry such an exceptional author; the characters truly come alive while you are reading.  The actions, feelings, and motivations are clear.

 The emotions stirred in me were strong as well, which is another of Fabry's strength.  His novels make you think.  Always I ask myself, "well, what would I do, what is right?"  For me, the best books are the ones that you carry with you long after you put them down, pondering the different situations or themes.  This novel is one that will stick with you, especially if you can relate to the characters or context.  I know a couple of people with severe addictions that have lost practically everything and thrown away relationships because of it.  It is difficult because, as I said above, they are both hurting and hurtful, but I will continue to pray for them.    I believe that God can change anyone.  

Bottom line, this is another great book by Chris Fabry.  I would honestly recommend his whole collection!
I received this book in exchange for my honest review from the B&B Media Group.