Beyond the Night
by Marlo Schalesky
Published by Multnomah Books
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Reviewed by Diane Snyder
Blinding rain and a deer appears in the headlights. The driver swerves and the inevitable happens.
The author skillfully tells the gentle warm story of Maddie and Paul through the dreams and memories of Maddie as she lay in her hospital bed – in an “in-between place of darkness and light.” Paul keeps a constant vigil at her bedside – quiet, observing and speaking soft words of encouragement.
Going back to 1973, Paul and Maddie have been best friends for years. Paul is now a research chemist and Maddie is in her last year of medical school. They do everything together – racquetball, movies. They go out together but both are emphatic that it is NAD (not a date). Then, for Maddie, the dread she has been carrying for years comes true. Every decision she has made in her life has been shaped by the specter of going blind. She, like her brother and grandmother before her, is succumbing to a hereditary condition that causes blindness. Maddie has tried to prepare herself but she still experiences the fear, anger, and hopelessness of knowing she will eventually be blind. Her faith is shaken but not shattered as she begins to realize the loss of her dreams: to be a doctor and to raise a family. She is determined to remain as independent as possible and attempts to put up walls against caring offers of help from those who love her – even Paul. When Paul realizes just how much Maddie means to him, he refuses to be pushed out of her life.
Together they face the future of darkness and a shocking betrayal by Mattie’s mother.
Beyond the Night is a moving love story of faith and deep friendships. It is not the story of the miraculous restoration of Mattie’s sight, but it is a story about the miracle of renewed faith and enduring love. The ending is totally unexpected and will stun you.
Armchair Interviews says: Keep your hanky close by – this is a tearjerker.
Author’s Web site: http://www.MarloSchalesky.com