Before I do, I need to first say I think the book was incredibly well written. I will tell you more about that soon. But, secondly, I need to say, in my opinion, this is a book for the ABA (American Book Association) market.
Love's Miracle by Sandra Leesmith tackles a difficult topic, PTSD as it relates to soldiers who come home from action in war. Leesmith's gift of understanding in this issue far exceeds expectation.
My father returned from war. My siblings and I knew there were times when we popped out of a hiding place, and truly surprised him, his arm could fly and hurt. Not intentionally. It was an instinct that could have saved his life during duty. My husband still has those dreams causing him to cry out.
I don't know if Leesmith had the college training required for this topic or if her expert research skills is what rendered this outstanding, very believable, and heart wrenching story to excellence. Either way, the story is very compelling.
About the book:
Margo is a licensed psychologist hired by Vinnie to help his brother, Zane. After returning home from the Vietnam war, Zane retreats from the family business to a cabin in the mountains. He refuses to return to his job and home. Vinnie and other family members cannot understand why Zane has walked away from the family business, and why he doesn't seem to care about them any more. During Zane's time as a helicopter pilot he witnessed tragedies that seared horrific images in his mind. One in particular, spiraled his emotions into a downward PTSD mindset. Margo's job is to help him work his way through the problem.
Margo has her own issues which manifests themselves while working with Zane. This intelligent soldier saw through the masks Margo had built over the years.
Margo and Zane develop an intense romantic relationship early on, which forces Zane to seek help from another psychologist.
Leesmith's realistic portrayal of the war scenes, the PTSD issues, family misconceptions, and the romantic development produced edgy scenes. This is an excellent story to help readers who know someone who has gone to war.
To me, the real issue from keeping this book to the CBA (Christian Book Association) market is the issue of Margo and Zane looking to each other for their hope to heal.
Please feel free to comment especially if you saw this book from a different point of view. The more we share with each other, the more we help each other.
Comments
I don't know the answers at this time.
But this I do know, I also enjoy reading books in the ABA market. I read Newberry winners, I read books with my teen daughter to be able to know what she is referring to...I don't have a problem with ABA. My purpose today is to show there is a really well written book that does a fantastic job on this topic, but that I didn't feel it had components that many readers expect in a CBA book.
So if you are interested in a well done book that deals with the after affects of war on our soldiers....this is the book.
So sorry, Mary, that your father & husband suffer from the effects of PTSD - please forward my thanks to them for serving to protect my liberties!
My brother served during the Vietnam War as a cargo plane pilot & is retired military, & my nephew served in Iraq as a chaplain & is still serving - I am thankful to say that they have not had any lasting effects from war.
bonnieroof60(at)yahoo(dot)com
I agree, I think you will find that this book will help you understand their issues.
You have had family serve as well, I see. Give them my thanks, too.
Thanks so much for stopping by and chatting today.