'Almost Heaven' by Chris Fabry book review and giveaway...

Almost Heaven

 By Chris Fabry

The blurb from the back of the book says:

Some people say Billy Allman has a heart of gold. Others say he's a bit odd. The truth is, they're all right. He's a hillbilly genius—a collector, a radio whiz—and he can make the mandolin sing. Though he dreams of making an impact on the world beyond the hills and hollers of Dogwood, West Virginia, things just always seem to go wrong.It’s hard to do much other than to take a deep breath, sigh and think ‘wow’ after you’ve finished this book.

But however insignificant Billy's life seems, it has not gone unnoticed. Malachi is an angel sent to observe and protect Billy. Though it's not his dream assignment, Malachi always follows orders. And as Billy's story unfolds, Malachi slowly begins to see the bigger picture—that each step Billy takes is a note added to a beautiful song that will forever change the lives of those who hear it.

The blurb from within my mind says:

I haven’t in a long time, if ever, read a story that touched me quite as this one has.

This story sees Billy Allman from childhood to middle age, but more importantly, it sees him through so many struggles, so many losses. You have a hard time not feeling bad for Billy, but he is such a unique character in that he doesn’t want you to feel sorry for him. He takes whatever cards he is dealt and deals with them the best way he can.

He loses his father early on, then the love of his life, and later after struggling with his mothers long fight with Alzheimer’s, he continues pushing his way toward his goal. His lifetime goal of owning and operating a radio station is by no means easy to achieve, but Billy never lets that get him down either. If anything, it just makes him work even harder at it. Billy never gives up on God no matter what. And believe me, if ever anyone thought they had a reason to, it’s Billy.

Throughout the story, throughout Billy’s struggles, God has sent Malachi, an angel to watch over him. Malachi is so observant of Billys feelings and of others as well. Malachi is told not to intervene when Billy is struggling and this rule is hard for him to abide by. But life as we know it comes with struggles. This story helps one to realize that even while struggling, there is always someone watching out for us.

I love how this story comes from two separate viewpoints; Billy’s and Malachi’s. I think that the scripture quoted in the beginning of the story fits dead on.

Hebrews 1:14

‘Therefore, angels are only servants, servants sent to care for people who will inherit salvation.’

This story digs down and embeds itself deeply within your emotions. Truly, a story you won’t soon forget!!

Note: I was not in compensated in any way, financial or otherwise to write this review.

I always provide my honest opinion.

I somehow ended up with two copies of this wonderful book

and so I would like to share the wealth.

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Good luck!

 

~Steph

~Steph

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