book review: "almost heaven" by chris fabry

Billy Allman has not had an easy life. On his tenth birthday, a flood came through and washed away his home. His father was injured while trying to save two little girls and was never the same. A few years later, he gave in to his depression, committing suicide. After his father’s death, his mother was never the same, having good days and bad days. The day Billy was going to take her to a nursing home because he was unable to take care of her, she passed away, leaving him completely alone. After his mother’s death, Billy decided to start his own radio station from his home, wanting to share his love of gospel music with others. He encountered obstacle after obstacle to get the station off the ground but felt this is what God wanted him to do – that fact pushing him on.

All during his life, Billy has an angel assigned to protect him. Malachi is present during Billy’s successes and hard times. However, he is given another assignment for a brief span of Billy’s life and it’s what transpires during this time that has a lasting impact on him. Malachi must struggle to understand why he was called away during a crucial time in Billy’s life since God would be the One making the order. Ultimately he trusts God’s sovereignty, amazed that He would have such an unending love for His creations.

I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I found myself unable to put this book down, constantly wanting to know what happens next. Fabry includes several twists that kept me guessing until the last page. I didn’t necessarily like the ending because it was left open but that’s my personal preference. Reading Malachi’s observations was also interesting – the spiritual perspective added a whole other element to the story.

I received this book free from Glass Road Publications and was not required to write a positive review.