NetGalley – Where Heaven Meets Cheyenne

Charles took on a big challenge with this story, tackling complex themes many avoid. For me personally, this was a 3-star read this year, but as a debut, it's an impressive 4.5-star effort, especially considering the difficult, often avoided topics. I've decided that I would make it an overall 3.5 stars on Goodreads.

About your reader for context:

I am a millennial. I was born in South Africa and moved to UK once grown up (this is relevant to my review due to a cultural reference). I was bereaved in childhood I was immediately drawn to the topics of this book – death, afterlife, meaning, connections and grief.
Book Feedback:

It’s clear there is immense potential! The author’s talent shines through, and I deeply connected with their exploration of grief and meaning, likely stemming from shared experiences as an Adult Bereaved in Childhood (ABC). My hope is that this feedback encourages Charles McDuff to keep writing, growing, and connecting with readers from an even more empowered place.

What worked:

I absolutely loved the themes. This author was great at using analogies. I particularly like the barn being “like a sturdy cowboy who softens in his old age.” There were lots of these that made me smile or feel inner satisfaction.

I liked the ending as it revealed the depth the author felt writing it. It cut open the vein and revealed what I felt had been beating around on the inside of these pages all along– his preoccupation with the human soul and the meaning of life.

Because of my background, I really liked the moral of this book.

What did not work and encouragements:

Excessive References:

These can be engaging for some readers but may alienate others, from demographics the writer may want to reach (international and non-Christian audiences).

Character Development:

Knowing every character’s academic history, while is great for the author, it isn’t always necessary or the most interesting way to advance the plot for the reader. For example, Aaron stood out as the most distinguishable voice and authentic character because he was portrayed through behaviour. I feel the writer should lean into that talent in future for reader engagement.

Overwriting:

There were moments where the writing felt a bit too detailed, which could slow the pacing. Simplifying some sections would let the richness of author voice shine.

Language:

Some language choices, such as 'spastic, dyslexic rendition,' may come across as outdated or unintentionally insensitive to readers. My sister is dyslexic.

Cultural Faux Pas:

As a South African living in the UK, the portrayal of Chuck outwitting British peers on their own history felt implausible. General knowledge and history are deeply valued here, with children learning these subjects in great detail. While the intent to showcase Chuck’s intelligence is clear, the idea of him surpassing British children on their own history came across as unrealistic and could very likely be interpreted by international audiences as rooted in an American saviour complex. The British are globally renowned for their intellect, and this portrayal felt misaligned with cultural reality.

Similarly, "For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow" felt like a dated, overly romanticised view of British life (Dickensian, whimsy) – the song only occasionally resurfaces and is drawled out at drunken (so not kids) birthday parties only.

The conclusion:
This feedback comes from a place of respect and encouragement. The author’s passion and potential shine through, and while there’s room for growth, I’m confident they’ll continue crafting powerful stories. The themes in Where Heaven Meets Cheyenne are important, and the bravery in tackling them is commendable. The cover and title are 10/10. Charles, keep writing—your talent is evident, and the world needs more of it!

This is a stunningly beautiful, beautifully-written, and heartrending book. It’s perfect for fans of thoughtful books with Christian characters who still seek God through painful times (e.g., Peace Like a River by Leif Enger or Gilead by Marilynne Robinson). The characters aren’t strait-laced - there’s swearing, sexual comments, and crying out to God in despair and anger - but it’s real and raw and human. There is hope and love still in the struggle. I highly recommend this book!

Thank you to NetGalley and Atmosphere Press for the free eARC. I post this review with my honest opinions.