A Review of CastleCottage by A.L. Keller- a Heartwarming Story

Only a few will see this review and fewer still will accept the invitation to preview an exceptional book. Those who are curious, perceptive, and intuitive will benefit from this wonderful literary work written by A. L. Keller.

Sometimes the greatest purpose in life is unfulfilled until one enters their most senior years. And so it is with Josephine, who in anticipation of her demise reflects on the grace as well as the concomitant troubles that have visited throughout her many years. As she welcomes and prepares herself for life's eventuality, she unexpectedly discovers the opportunity to once more taste the elixir of youth and also claim her most precious purpose.

The opening chapter of CastleCottage, located in culturally rich and scenic Ireland, where leprechauns and fairies compliment faith, introduces Josephine, an elderly and apparently eccentric woman who practices her faith as well her healing powers on those fortunate enough to know and call upon her. However, her powers of illuminating the best that lies within each of us is a far greater gift that is continually revealed through the other characters who are soon brought into the fold. The story moves quickly and the reader will be hard pressed to find any convenient stopping point.

CastleCottage invites the reader to join Josephine on her journey as she revisits her youth in a most unusual way, interacts with her community of family and humanity and ultimately fulfills her highest purpose. Through a series of unplanned and surprising events the reader is welcomed into her world to experience joy, a bit of inspirational fantasy, a number of contemplative moments, and a re-energized faith in family and community. Prepare yourself for more than a few laughs as well as a some tears. This book offers food for the brain, music to the heart, and nourishment for the soul. Whether male, female, old or youthful, there are ample scenes and dialogue where the reader can connect with events and recognize familiarity within their own lives. For the faithful there is the message of God's wonderful grace and for the more secular minded there is the discovery that life offers rewards far in excess of what one might expect.

The characters in the book are unique, yet familiar. They are of all ages and each faces their own hurdles. Their challenges are often our challenges. They are our neighbors and our families rolled out before our eyes each with their own goals, peculiarities, experiences, recollections, ambiguities and yet still, all members of our human heritage. Each has an important learning role in life and in turn each provides the reader with a powerful message about the real treasures of life.

This book could comfortably fit in the genre of family, faith and living, yet it is much more. If you feel comfortable with those themes you will be delighted, however if you are more acquainted with mystery, action and adventure, you too will be rewarded. All are invited to enter the world of CastleCottage where beliefs, reality, humanity, adventure, mystery and most of all heartfelt love collide to entertain and inspire.

CastleCottage can be read here.