The Prodigal Son
A Hero For Heather by Marion Ueckermann is a wonderful contemporary Christian romance. It is the third book in the Seven Suitors For Seven Sisters series but can be read as a stand-alone. A Hero For Heather is a modern day telling of the Prodigal Son blended with the Good Samaritan and I loved it.
A major theme in the novel is that of forgiveness. There are times when we need to forgive others and times when we need to accept forgiveness.
There is also the overwhelming sense of love over the whole novel. Love takes many forms – parental, sibling, friendship, romantic – love when mixed with kindness really is powerful. “Random acts of kindness can go a long way.” We love because “Christ’s love compels us.” Jesus issued the command to love one another and A Hero For Heather lives out that instruction.
The world is not always a good place. Within the novel there are themes of loneliness and hopelessness. The reader doesn’t know all the ins and outs as to why PJ has ended up on the streets but does feel a great sense of sympathy for him, especially as he views himself as a failure. However in God’s eyes PJ is loved. God can take our despair and sense of failure and turn it round and use it for good and for His glory. Life as a ‘failure’ on the streets will mean that PJ has a deep sense of empathy for others.
There is the theme of judgement in the novel. “Goodness knows what baggage they have in life.” Our job is never to judge people. Our job is to love them, and this characteristic of loving others is beautifully encapsulated in the character of Heather.
Money is important. The love of money is the root of all evil. Money can be used for good but “throwing money at [a problem] isn’t the solution.” Love, kindness and empathy can work well going hand in hand with money.
Many people are searching for something. We all have a God shaped hole inside us that if it isn’t filled with God will keep us continually restless. We will feel permanently empty. We need to “let Christ be [our] foundation and [our] anchor.”
Marion Ueckermann has done it again! She has produced a wonderful feel good story with God at the centre. As the novel ends, so a feeling of calm and peacefulness descends on the reader. It has been a tale well told. I cannot wait for book number four.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
JULIA WILSON