Gone in a Heartbeat: Our Daughters Died…Our Faith Endures

by: David & Marie Works—with Dean Merrill

Published by: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc

Reviewed by Diane A Brown

Tragedy, when it strikes your life, takes on a whole new meaning… .

This book shares an in-depth look into the lives of the Works family. We journey with them from the happy togetherness they once had, through the tragic shooting of three family members, to coping with an altered future.

The writing is very descriptive and emotionally stimulating. You may find yourself crying right beside them or heaving a sigh of relief when a small milestone is passed. Most of the story is told from the point of view of David, the father or Marie, the mother. The way it is denoted. “I (David) felt… or I (Marie) felt…” was distracting to me and interrupted the flow to some degree.

The book is written in chronological order, sharing experiences, dreams and plans of the Works family. You have the opportunity to see a glimpse of their personalities and understand their lives before, during, and after the traumatic events. The writing is so visual that you can see it unfold as if you were standing right there.

This is a Christian family and as such they constantly rely on the hand of God in their everyday lives, turning to Him always in their time of need. They emulate the principles of forgiveness, love and faith, and by so doing, touch lives around the world.

This book places emphasis on religious teachings and practices as experienced by the Works family but it doesn’t come across in a “preachy” sort of way.

If you have recently lost a loved one to a tragic event you may find comfort and eventually strength by reading this incredible story.

Armchair Interviews agrees.