 |
This gently profound exploration of the Christian faith opens at the scene of a horrific collision between a tractor trailer and a minibus carrying a church committee on their way to a retreat. Although the destruction to the bus is such that first responders are certain there will be no survivors, the committee members incomprehensibly find themselves transported to The Wayfarer’s Inn, a cozy place found at the end of a dark, snow-covered country road. The committee, comprised of incongruent and divisive characters who often find themselves at odds, soon discovers that the inn is not all it appears. Through discussions with “Old Pete” (the bartender) and “Adam” (the innkeeper), the group is confronted by their individual attitudes, judgments, agendas, and histories. As they progress through these discoveries, each person faces difficult truths about themselves and their relationships to God and each other before continuing on their journeys.
This work creatively explores the many facets of a Christian life through the dialogue of a disparate cast of characters. From cradle Christians and a blustery quilting circle matron to a former alcoholic soldier and a pastor riddled with doubts, readers will find themselves identifying with the personalities and issues brought forth. With hints of gentle humor and references to the writings of mystics such as Thomas Aquinas and Saint Augustine, the author poses deep questions that will leave readers examining their own beliefs. It is perfect for fans of metaphysical fiction, such as Willliam Paul Young’s The Shack or Mitch Albom’s The Stranger in the Lifeboat. Throughout this work, readers will be compelled to examine their own faith life and to come to God with their deepest doubts and questions, as “God knows the content of your heart even when you deny or suppress it.”
RECOMMENDED by the US Review