"The Heart Mender" by Andy Andrews

Andy Andrews writes a beautiful story of love and the process of forgiveness. As the story begins, we are introduced to two people destined to meet. Josef is in the German Navy against his will. Helen is angry with everyone because of the death of her husband in the war. Can each help the other forgive the ravages of war? The characters and story line immediately draw the reader in and push you to keep reading until the end. Is the story truth, fiction, or a mixture of both? Readers everywhere will decide that for themselves.

I received this complementary copy of the book as part of the "Book Sneeze" program at Thomas Nelson Publishers.  It has definitely made it to my favorites shelf!  The characters, setting, and story were realistic and the plot was believable. It is a great gift book for the broken-hearted; will lead to great discussions as a book group selection; and is wonderful for personal spiritual growth. Here is one of my favorite passages from the book.

"Warming to the thought, Margaret asked, "Billy, where is it written that for one person to forgive another, the offender must ask for forgiveness? Where is it written - not in the Bible, for sure - that for one person to forgive another, the offender must deserve it?" Margaret stood. Eyes narrowed, head cocked, she asked, "how about this...where is it written that for one person to forgive another, the offender has to approve it, accept it, or even know about it?" pg. 157