I have an amazing friend. To be honest, he was my boyfriend, homecoming, and prom date in high school many years ago! Now, he’s a talented artist and makes his living through the lens of a camera. He also recently added published author to his resume and the story he wrote is headed for the screen. I admire him for his creative successes and the road he now travels with his beautiful teenage daughters.
Jimmy Taaffe’s book, Angel Mine, is based on a true story. When I finished reading it, I literally sighed. Jimmy lost the love of his life, Kristy, 6 years ago suddenly from a rare heart disease. She was 38 years old. The book honors his wife, his girls’ mom, in such a sweet and thoughtful way. Her name and personality are sprinkled into the book but the story is not about Kristy’s life. It’s about Jimmy bravely taking a step forward without her.
After his wife’s death, Jimmy’s path crosses with a stranger on a train. Literally. I don’t think either one would say it was a coincidence. Juju, an artist, lost her beloved husband, Sidney, the exact same day Jimmy lost Kristy. Two broken-hearted people who happened to be traveling on the same day, at the same time, in the same train car, to the same place. Hmmm.
Angel Mine is about fate, love, loss, and healing. It will make you cry, but it also brings hope. It’s such a compelling and passionate story that the screenplay has been written and filming is now complete. When you see the film, which will probably come out early next year, look closely. Yours truly is an extra in the train station scene! I’ll give you details on when and where you’ll be able to see it.
Pick up this book. Knowing that it’s based on a true story your emotions will take a roller coaster ride. I’m so proud of my friend Jimmy’s strength and courage to raise his daughters and live a productive and fulfilling life after such a tragedy. That says a lot about a person’s character. God Bless Kristy and Sidney.
To purchase a copy of Angel Mine, please click this link.
