Sunday, July 5, 2020

About the Book

Book: Flowers from Afghanistan

Author: Suzy Parish

Genre: Christian War Fiction

Release Date: August 10, 2018

Weighed down by guilt following the death of his two-year-old son, Mac McCann accepts a year-long position training police officers in Afghanistan. Leaving his wife Sophie to grieve alone, he hopes the life-or-death distractions of his self-imposed exile will build a wall between him and his pain.

As camaraderie builds between Mac and the men on base—including a local barber and his precocious little boy—Mac’s heart becomes invested in stories beyond his own tragedy and he learns he is not the only one running from loss. But when the hour of attack arrives, will he be able to see past his guilt to believe there’s still something—and someone—worth living for? With touching details based on true events, Flowers from Afghanistan is a redemptive journey of healing, a chronicle of hope in crisis, and a testament to the faithfulness of God through it all.

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MY REVIEW

This story is a look at a marriage that faces one of the hardest tragedies I can think of. I cried when their son died and could feel the turmoil inside them. Mac is one of those people who internalizes things. He keeps them suppressed deep down where nothing can touch it. His wife is struggling as well, but she soon will find out that her husband has checked out.

Mac not only abandons his wife but he takes on a new career in Afghanistan. I know I tend to run from things as well. I keep things hidden from everybody expecting to ignore my heart breaking in half. I enjoyed reading Mac’s journey and how he became close to several men while stationed overseas. We get a glimpse into a world where danger lurks nearby and we understand the desperation of those who cry out for freedom. God had a plan for Mac and in the midst of war, Mac must face his anger towards God. His marriage is going through a change and I think his wife was very understanding. She never once turned her back on Mac.

I liked how Sophie discovered herself and realized with God’s help she could heal. Her love of baking becomes a focus for her and I think it gave her confidence she never had before. The story examines how important it is to communicate in a marriage. That is something Mac failed at. He is so wrapped up in guilt and anger that he forgot to lean on his wife and God.

The story reflects not only marriage but the undeniable need to trust God. Mac faces danger several times but each time God was there to cover him and keep him safe. Sometimes we have to go through trials for God to get our attention. I loved how well the author was able to communicate through words the emotions that each character goes through. She lets us see what life is like in Afghanistan and the hardship they encounter each day.

I finished the book as tears ran down my cheeks with hope that others will experience God’s love and His forgiving spirit. Nothing is impossible with God. We need to be open to receive Him like Mac experiences and be able to forgive ourselves.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

About the Author

Suzy Parish wrote as a Community Columnist for the Huntsville Times. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Suzy discovered her love of books as a child in Richmond, Virginia when she took refuge from the summer heat in the local Bookmobile. She believes the power of literacy can change lives and stewards a Little Free Library in a local park. She currently resides in Huntsville, Alabama with her husband, a retired Investigator from the Huntsville Police Department. Their tennis-ball addicted dog, Charlie, is her writing companion.

More from Suzy

Have you or a family member served in the military or as first responders? I had you on my heart when I wrote Flowers from Afghanistan. You might say this novel is my “Thank you” to families all over who sacrifice their time and sometimes even their lives to help make the world a safer place.

It’s also my hand, reaching out through my keyboard to beautiful children like the character Bashir. These children want the same things as any child the world over, shelter, food, and to know they are loved. And finally, this book is a love letter from myself to Jesus Christ. He is the reason I write.