Michelle Sutton’s review of Veil of Fire by Marlo Schalesky
Book Description:
The screaming flames surrounded the small town of Hinckley before most knew to flee. Hours later, the survivors picked their way out of the ashes and began anew. For the tight-knit town, the fire meant the inexplicable loss of family, devastating financial ruin, and the disquieting loss of faith. While some agonized over words left unsaid and gestures unmade, one man rejoiced. His secrets fled on the cinders to Heaven, along with everyone who knew them. Or had they? But in the wake of the maelstrom stood a scorched child of God, filled with resiliency, resolve, and the truth—the truth that would bring freedom and restore faith in God and in man.
My review:
Veil of Fire is a fascinating story based on an actual historical event–the worst fire in Minnesota’s history–a fire that burned 400 square miles and killed 418 people in just four hours. The story begins with non-stop action as a hellish blaze consumes everything in sight. The reader is placed in the middle of the maelstrom as the events unfold, and it’s an awesome and terrifying experience.
The potential for evil in the hearts of men really comes out in this story, as does a theme of regret. But God takes the painful things and, if we let Him, He will shape us into beautiful vessels. I loved the analogy of the gingerbread cookie. Something bitter, something sweet, and a whole lot of heat. That about sums up life in this world. Why do bad things happen? They just do. Is God there? Yes. Whether we see Him or not is based on our choice. These are just a few of the meaty lessons I gleaned from this wonderful story.
Of course, some of the bad guys never change, but that’s real life. But many people who were either lukewarm or living behind a false mask, or a “church face” learned about unconditional love and the power of opening your heart and taking risks. Wonderful, wonderful stuff.
Plus, the poor “monster” in the hills really tore at my heart. I loved how the “monster’s” thoughts were in first person and the others were in third person point of view. That style had greater impact for the reader. Oh, and the best part of all is that who I thought the “monster” was through the whole story turned out to be someone else. I just love twists like that. I might even read this story twice. Highly recommended!
Veil of Fire is published by Cook Communications and was released in May 2007.
