Not in the Heart

Chris Fabry
Tyndale House Publishers (2012)
ISBN 9781414348612
Reviewed by Leslie Granier for Reader Views (1/12)

 

Truman Wiley has experienced his share of difficulties. He is unemployed, separated from his wife Ellen, and has huge gambling debts. But the hardest thing is watching his teenage son Aiden whose health is deteriorating because of a heart condition. Then Truman gets an offer he can’t refuse. He is hired by the family of Terrelle Conley, a man on death row who has always maintained his innocence, to make sure Conley’s story is told. In exchange, Conley promises to donate his heart to Aiden after his execution. As Truman looks into Conley’s background, he is faced with a difficult question. If Conley is innocent should he tell anyone, because doing so would mean Aiden would not get the transplant he desperately needs?

Author Chris Fabry does a great job of bringing out the strengths of his characters. Truman’s flaws are prominently portrayed. However, his good intentions of helping his son, investigating a murder that occurred many years ago, and trying to mend his relationship with his wife and children shine forth. The inner strength Ellen exhibits in basically being a single parent with a very sick child will serve as an inspiration for others who are in difficult situations. The dignity and the hope that Terrelle embraces demonstrate that it is never too late to make things right.

“Not in the Heart” is the best book I have read in a long time. The plot is unique and creative, containing both ethical and moral dilemmas. It moves at an appropriate pace but still manages to keep the reader hanging until the last page. There are numerous twists throughout the story, but the ending still came as a shock to me. Although this book is comprised of serious subject matter, there are splashes of humor to lighten things up at times.

“Not in the Heart” is appropriate for people eighteen and older. Men and women will find it equally enjoyable. It challenges not only the readers’ emotions but also their minds. There are many references to faith and religion but they are not overwhelming and should not be offensive to anyone. I would love to read future writings from this author.

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