The Heart Mender by Andy Andrews {GIVEAWAY}

Back of the book:

A unique blend of historical fact and engaging fiction showing the power of forgiveness.

While digging up a withering wax myrtle tree beside his waterfront home on the Gulf coast, author Andy Andrews unearths a rusted metal container filled with Nazi artifacts and begins an intriguing investigation that unlocks an unspoken past that took place in his backyard . . . literally.
In 1942, as the country gears up for a full-scale commitment to WWII, German subs are dispatched to the Gulf of Mexico to sink U.S. vessels carrying goods and fuel. While taking a late-night walk, Helen Mason-widowed by war-discovers the near-lifeless body of a German sailor. Enraged at the site of Josef Landermann's uniform, Helen is prepared to leave him to die when an unusual phrase, faintly uttered, changes her mind.
Set in a period simmering with anger and suspicion The Heart Menderoffers the very real chronicle of a small town preparing itself for the worst the world has to offer. As cargo from torpedoed ships begins to wash up on the beach, Josef and Helen must reconcile their pasts to create a future.
Blending his unique style of historical accuracy with unparalleled storytelling, New York Times best-selling author Andy Andrews offers a tale of war, faith, and forgiveness illuminating the one principle that frees the human spirit.
Previously released as Island of Saints.  Now includes a Reader's Guide and a Where are They Now? section.

My Review:  I was immediately attracted to this book for two reasons:  The first reason is the title and the second is the fact that it's about WWII.  I enjoying reading about WWII possibly because my dad is an armchair war hero.  Knowing that Andy Andrews is on New York bestseller's list also piqued my interest in this book.  This is a fast paced read with an amazing cast of characters. As I read the book and came to page 120 I have to share this with you for it touched my soul:  "Forgiveness means relinquishment, It is that simple. . . It means giving up something. To relinquish something means to give up whatever power it holds over us. . . . You may remember the wrong, but by choosing to forgive, you have disarmed it. . . . ."  This is an EXCELLENT read not only on forgiveness but on living life and NOT letting bitterness and resentment be your bed fellows.  Mr. Andrews begins the book in the first person telling of  the "finds" that become the story.  He also shares real pictures of the real artifacts and the real people which gives the reader a "real feel" for the story.  The actual story begins in Part Two, page 37, however, Mr. Andrews answered my question, "Is is a true story?" at the introduction of the book, "And the answer is . . . yes. . . for the most part.  All the numbers, the history, the dates, the items I found are real.  I have changed some locations and names. And before you ask. . . yes . . for the most part, it will be true!" I loved this story and would give it 20 stars!  

*I reviewed this book for Thomas Nelson Publishing (BookSneeze)*

*Thomas Nelson generously gave me a book to give away!  MUCH THANKS!*

***GIVEAWAY***

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Giveaway ends May 20-Winner Announced on May 21!