In exploring the aftermath and the attempts of Allyn to just get out of bed each day after a brutal and horrific attack, which left multiple scars both physical and emotional, Margaret McHeyzer has created a story that is both emotional and, out of the depths of despair, beautiful.
Three years after being brutally attacked, gang raped and dumped in a pond to die, Allyn has not left her house again, feeling safer in her self-created, bland fortress. It is through a chance watching of a TV programme that Allyn encounters the name Dr Dominic Shriver. He has helped women like Allyn regain their lives. Fed up of her bland existence, Allyn makes a conscious decision to reclaim her life. Her self-confidence is shattered; she is scared of going outside and of having people in her home; she refuses to look at herself in a mirror, seeing herself as broken; she feels she is unlovable.
Dominic sets out to help her rebuild and reclaim her life; to put the colour back in it. It is not an easy read and is a journey that will take time but Dominic is in for the long haul. He sees Allyn for the person she is really is; a beautiful, courageous woman with a pure soul. Dominic's patience and belief in her means that Allyn begins to flourish and take steps she would never have taken before.
This is a story of inner beauty, overcoming the odds, survival and choosing a life of colour. Allyn's story is tragic, disturbing and emotional but you will celebrate every tiny step she take. You witness a love story unfold before your eyes. You witness an amazing man worship Allyn and find her beautiful. You witness Allyn blossom into a vibrant flower under Dominic's care. And you see Allyn consciously decide to live her life in colour.
Margaret McHeyzer has created a powerful story, which stayed with me long after the last word was read. I am struck by the courage and strength of both Allyn and Dominic in standing up to face their demons. It shocked me, brought me to tears, made me laugh and made me cheer. The depth of the story and the characters sang to me and pulled me into the story from the first word and did not let me go until long after the last. This is a definite must read.
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