Story Behind the Story: Fay Lamb

I’ve brought back the “Story Behind the Story” Series and am happy to share Fay Lamb’s story about her novel – Fay is a fabulous volunteer with ACFW and I’m excited to have her on my blog! – Nicole

I met Michael Hayes one cool autumn day while sitting on my porch. I’d been staring vacantly out at the cedar trees lining the backyard trying to plot a story.

Michael, unshaven, his hair a little scraggly, and his young face filled with tension, began to tell me his story. “There’s a young boy, Cole. I’m not his father, but he’s definitely on this earth because of me. I allowed something horrible to happen to his mother, but I still love her. I despise the kid, though. I’ve forgiven another for so much more, and Cole’s only fault is that his father is the man who took everything from me. How can I learn to love this child and protect his mother from the man who can again take her from me?”

And as easily as Michael entered my imagination, he turned and walked away.

Michael’s revelation brought forth layer after layer of plot, and my novel, Because of Me was born.

Michael didn’t have to introduce me to the love of his life, Isabel “Issie” Putnam. I knew she had spunk. She’d gone on with her life, living it the best she could in the shadow of condemnation. Michael had been sent to prison for a crime he had not committed, but those who should have loved her best, thought her as guilty as they believed Michael had been. Despite the rumors and accusations, Issie raised her son, a child born of the most unspeakable act—one Michael was forced to watch.

And Issie expects Michael to deal with it. She loves him, but she isn’t about to let a man love her if he cannot love her son.

Michael’s question, “How can I learn to love this child and protect his mother from the man who can again take her from me?” plagued me.

Michael’s journey is one that leads him and Issie to a full understanding of Christ-like forgiveness and the knowledge that God can use our mistakes and bring about the most wondrous of gifts. After all, God is in every detail of our lives.

For more information about Because of Me, go to www.faylamb.com.

Thank you, Fay!