SUMMARY: She first heard him on an anti-Nazi radio address when she was nine years old. In the years that followed, Dietrich Bonhöffer, famed German theologian, became her teacher, friend, and finally, her fiancé. Although 18 years younger than the illustrious Bonhöffer, Maria von Wedemeyer’s intelligence, youthful enthusiasm, and caring heart drew her to him.
The BookViral Review: Genre – WWII Historical Fiction
Historical fiction of the highest order, Love Out Of Reach proves to be an enthralling and powerful evocation of time and place, character, moral choices, faith and human nature with Jack Saarela creating a powerful emotional maelstrom that draws us in from one page to the next.
Grounded on the life of Dietrich Bonhöffer whose writings on Christianity’s role in the secular world have become widely influential few authors succeed in capturing the drive and nuances of significant historical characters but Saarela should certainly be counted amongst the latter. Impeccably written, Maria von Wedemeyer’s story transcends the historically fraught years it covers and whilst marrying historical social, cultural and religious influences with enjoyable storytelling is far from straightforward Saarela achieves it with a remarkable sense of immediacy by inhabiting the minds of his characters.
On this level we see events unfold through their eyes but despite its fascinating real-life origins Love Out Of Reach never feels like a history lesson. What we get is a highly enjoyable, complex and intimate portrait of courageous individuals fighting for their lives and beliefs as we find ourselves emotionally drawn into their conflict.
Powerful and undeniably inspiring Saarela blends bold and passionate storytelling to deliver an exceptional read and Love Out Of Reach is recommended without reservation.