What do you think?
Rate this book
Veil of Fire
In 1894, the worst firestorm in Minnesota history descended on the town of Hinckley, consuming 400 square miles and killing 418 people in just four hours. Heat, flame, and darkness swept through the town, devouring lives, and consuming all hope. In the aftermath of the fire, the town of Hinckley rises from the ashes, its people determined to rebuild their lives. But in the shadows, someone is watching, someone is waiting, someone who knows the secrets the fire lay bare. A rumor spreads of a mysterious figure that haunts the hills; monster, a ghost, or a memory?
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2007
16 people are currently reading
182 people want to read
About the author
Marlo Schalesky
20 books73 followersMarlo Schalesky is the founder and president of Wonder Wood Ranch, a California charitable organization that brings hope through horses to at-risk, gang-impacted, homeless, and other disadvantaged kids in Monterey County. She is also the award winning author of twelve books, including her latest nonfiction, WOMEN OF THE BIBLE SPEAK OUT, Stories of Betrayal, Abuse, Healing & Hope (2020), as well as Reaching for Wonder, Encountering Christ When Life Hurts, Waiting for Wonder, Learning to Live on God’s Timeline, Wrestling with Wonder, a Transformational Journey through the Life of Mary, and Empty Womb, Aching Heart, Hope and Help for those Struggling with Infertility. Her fiction includes RITA finalist Shades of Morning, the Christy Award winning Beyond the Night, and ACFW Book of the Year winner Veil of Fire.
She’s had over 1,000 articles published in various Christian magazines, including Focus on the Family, Today’s Christian Woman, Decision, Moody Magazine, and Discipleship Journal. She has contributed to Dr. Dobson’s Night Light Devotional for Couples, Tyndale’s Book of Devotions for Kids #3, and Discipleship Journal’s 101 Small Group Ideas.
She is a speaker, with appearances on Focus on the Family, Moody Midday, 100 Huntley Street, The Harvest Show, and hundreds of others. She is also a regular columnist for Power for Living.
Marlo is also a California native, a graduate of Stanford University (with a B.S. in Chemistry!). In addition, she has earned her Masters in Theology, with an emphasis in Biblical Studies, from Fuller Theological Seminary.
After twenty years on the infertility journey, and numerous miscarriages, Marlo now lives with her husband, six children, and fifty-some critters in a log home in Central California.
When she’s not cleaning up after critters of all kinds, doing laundry, or writing books, Marlo loves white mochas, reading the New Testament in Greek, and speaking to groups about finding the wonder of God in everyday life.
She’s had over 1,000 articles published in various Christian magazines, including Focus on the Family, Today’s Christian Woman, Decision, Moody Magazine, and Discipleship Journal. She has contributed to Dr. Dobson’s Night Light Devotional for Couples, Tyndale’s Book of Devotions for Kids #3, and Discipleship Journal’s 101 Small Group Ideas.
She is a speaker, with appearances on Focus on the Family, Moody Midday, 100 Huntley Street, The Harvest Show, and hundreds of others. She is also a regular columnist for Power for Living.
Marlo is also a California native, a graduate of Stanford University (with a B.S. in Chemistry!). In addition, she has earned her Masters in Theology, with an emphasis in Biblical Studies, from Fuller Theological Seminary.
After twenty years on the infertility journey, and numerous miscarriages, Marlo now lives with her husband, six children, and fifty-some critters in a log home in Central California.
When she’s not cleaning up after critters of all kinds, doing laundry, or writing books, Marlo loves white mochas, reading the New Testament in Greek, and speaking to groups about finding the wonder of God in everyday life.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 13, 2018
On September 1, 1894, one of the worst fires in history ravaged east-central Minnesota. It was the first firestorm in Minnesota history, destroying six towns, including Hinckley. Descending on the towns like a red demon, the fire consumed 400 square miles, killing 418 people in four hours.
After the fire, the townspeople rebuilt their town, but in the midst of rebuilding, a rumor began of a hermit in the hills—a person severely burned, disfigured beyond recognition. The identity of this person was never determined, and the “ghost” remains to this day a mystery, a myth, a shadowed figure whispered about in tales passed from grandparents to grandchildren. So the question remains: Who was this “monster in the hills”?
(Above copied from the Author's notes at book end).
Review
The monster is a central figure in this book. Much of this book's allure is 'will the question be answered: who exactly is the monster?'
In the meantime we learn that another monster lurks in the town; one who committed sins against women of the town. Will his sins be revealed?
Veil of Fire is advertised as a Christian novel, but it's story does not follow a formula. It does do what a Christian novel typically does: address dilemmas through faith in Jesus.
The revelation of the monster did drag on a little bit, but I still enjoyed the book, its message and the backdrop of the lethal firestorm.
3.75 stars rounded up to 4 .
After the fire, the townspeople rebuilt their town, but in the midst of rebuilding, a rumor began of a hermit in the hills—a person severely burned, disfigured beyond recognition. The identity of this person was never determined, and the “ghost” remains to this day a mystery, a myth, a shadowed figure whispered about in tales passed from grandparents to grandchildren. So the question remains: Who was this “monster in the hills”?
(Above copied from the Author's notes at book end).
Review
The monster is a central figure in this book. Much of this book's allure is 'will the question be answered: who exactly is the monster?'
In the meantime we learn that another monster lurks in the town; one who committed sins against women of the town. Will his sins be revealed?
Veil of Fire is advertised as a Christian novel, but it's story does not follow a formula. It does do what a Christian novel typically does: address dilemmas through faith in Jesus.
The revelation of the monster did drag on a little bit, but I still enjoyed the book, its message and the backdrop of the lethal firestorm.
3.75 stars rounded up to 4 .
November 21, 2007
Veil of Fire is a fascinating story based on an actual historical event--the worst fire in Minnesota's history--a fire that burned 400 square miles and killed 418 people in just four hours. The story begins with non-stop action as a hellish blaze consumes everything in sight. The reader is placed in the middle of the maelstrom as the events unfold, and it's an awesome and terrifying experience.
The potential for evil in the hearts of men really comes out in this story, as does a theme of regret. But God takes the painful things and if we let Him, He will shape us into beautiful vessels. I loved the analogy of the gingerbread cookie. Something bitter, something sweet, and a whole lot of heat. That about sums up life in this world. Why do bad things happen? They just do. Is God there? Yes. Whether we see Him or not is based on our choice. These are just a few of the meaty lessons I gleaned from this wonderful story.
Of course, some of the bad guys never change, but that's real life. But many people who were either lukewarm or living behind of false mask, or a "church face" learned about unconditional love and the power of opening your heart and taking risks. Wonderful, wonderful stuff.
Plus, the poor "monster" in the hills really tore at my heart. I loved how the "monster's" thoughts were in first person and the others were in third person point of view. That style had greater impact for the reader. Oh, and the best part of all is that who I thought the "monster" was through the whole story turned out to be someone else. I just love twists like that. I might even read this story twice. Highly recommended!
The potential for evil in the hearts of men really comes out in this story, as does a theme of regret. But God takes the painful things and if we let Him, He will shape us into beautiful vessels. I loved the analogy of the gingerbread cookie. Something bitter, something sweet, and a whole lot of heat. That about sums up life in this world. Why do bad things happen? They just do. Is God there? Yes. Whether we see Him or not is based on our choice. These are just a few of the meaty lessons I gleaned from this wonderful story.
Of course, some of the bad guys never change, but that's real life. But many people who were either lukewarm or living behind of false mask, or a "church face" learned about unconditional love and the power of opening your heart and taking risks. Wonderful, wonderful stuff.
Plus, the poor "monster" in the hills really tore at my heart. I loved how the "monster's" thoughts were in first person and the others were in third person point of view. That style had greater impact for the reader. Oh, and the best part of all is that who I thought the "monster" was through the whole story turned out to be someone else. I just love twists like that. I might even read this story twice. Highly recommended!
March 1, 2015
Incredible story makes history come alive. A page-turner that required me to read it all in one day, this book kept me guessing, and the ending was not at all what I expected. When I was finished I had to go research the history of the Hinckley fire. Though I have visited the museum and live close by, I will now go back and see it with new eyes. A well-written story from a fantastic author.
February 27, 2015
I thought it was an interesting story about karma and the lessons that can be learned from tribulations. Sometimes it was difficult to follow which character was speaking but the plot held together and played out perfectly.
November 10, 2017
Set against the historical background of an actual fire in Hinckley, Minnesota, in 1894, this is a story of destruction, loss, rebuilding, and rebirth. It is also a tale with a moral: It is a person's ACTIONS, not one's APPEARANCE, that makes a person a "monster."
June 2, 2021
For me this was a book I should have read in one night, or one afternoon, as a busy mother I read a bit here and there, and I kept getting lost in the plot of the story because of this, I kept wanting to read more and quickly finish the book as I wanted to figure out the mystery but I couldn't and that detracted from the enjoyment of reading this very interesting novel. So my recommendation is read it when you won't be distracted! I plan on reading more from this author. Her books are different but a breath of fresh air, she keep you guessing until the end and in reality I still have questions....but I am okay with that. I recommend this book.
January 21, 2024
The book itself starts off, in my opinion, a little hard to follow, but once you’ve settled in with the characters and recognize the plot the book becomes a very powerful story. It’s emotional and thoughtful. this became a book i couldn’t put down.
October 10, 2017
kept me guessing till the end, didnt want to put it down
March 20, 2021
Can't put it down
Just got caught up with wondering who the monster was and wanting the bad guys to get caught. And they were.
Just got caught up with wondering who the monster was and wanting the bad guys to get caught. And they were.
September 4, 2021
Excellent read, although I found the first few chapters utterly exhausting to read! Kept me guessing to the end.
Read
March 18, 2025Author not available at library
April 4, 2009
KINDLE EDITION
This book is replete with suspense. Very difficult to put down. I tell myself I will stop reading after "this" chapter and get to the end of it and continue onto the next.
In chapters one and two, a wild fire is burning out of control, bringing destruction. Claiming lives. A daughter loses her mother. A man witnesses a burning wagon as it runs over his wife as she urges him to leave - to save their 6-month old daughter. Further chapters deal with the aftermath and rebuilding after such devastation.
Why did Arla not believe her daughter Rakel and tell her she lied? What really happened between Rakel and Lars? How did this devastating fire start and where? The townfolk say that the one stealing and prowling around is a ghost or a monster but the reader knows it's someone that was severely burned in the fire who thinks he/she will always have to hide. Just who is this "ghost?" Is it Ellie's mom? Arla's daughter? Perhaps Joseph's wife?
There's a gang of troublemakers, a shooting, and a coverup. Lots of action. An altogether different kind of story. Unexpected.
This book is replete with suspense. Very difficult to put down. I tell myself I will stop reading after "this" chapter and get to the end of it and continue onto the next.
In chapters one and two, a wild fire is burning out of control, bringing destruction. Claiming lives. A daughter loses her mother. A man witnesses a burning wagon as it runs over his wife as she urges him to leave - to save their 6-month old daughter. Further chapters deal with the aftermath and rebuilding after such devastation.
Why did Arla not believe her daughter Rakel and tell her she lied? What really happened between Rakel and Lars? How did this devastating fire start and where? The townfolk say that the one stealing and prowling around is a ghost or a monster but the reader knows it's someone that was severely burned in the fire who thinks he/she will always have to hide. Just who is this "ghost?" Is it Ellie's mom? Arla's daughter? Perhaps Joseph's wife?
There's a gang of troublemakers, a shooting, and a coverup. Lots of action. An altogether different kind of story. Unexpected.
March 17, 2009
I decided to read this book, partly because my mom recommended it, and partly because it's about the Hinckley fire, which happened in Minnesota. I grew up in Minnesota and I've been to the Hinckley Fire Museum near the place where my church used to camp out every summer. So that made it especially interesting for me. It's also a good story, though, with interesting characters and an intriguing mystery. Since fire is one of my biggest fears, the first few chapters were a little disturbing to me, but it got much better as it went on. The ending revealed a good message about God's sovereignty and the importance of truth. Veil of Fire is proof that you don't have to be famous to write a good book!
June 24, 2020
Who is the hermit in the hills after the great Hinkley, MN fire in the 1890's? Mystery, fun, and an ending twist. Don't miss this one!
March 9, 2015
I love to read stories based on actual historical events & this is one I will never forget. Excellent retelling of the events of the 1894 fire.
Suspense that kept me turning pages.
Part allegory. Part parable.
A subtle message of hope and redemption.
Spoiler: I docked one star because I had to suspend disbelief that a journal would survive a fire that was so hot people poured water over each other so their clothes wouldn't catch on fire.
And a locked room with a window that can be easily opened is not much of a prison.
Schalesky is a great story teller and one I would read again.
Suspense that kept me turning pages.
Part allegory. Part parable.
A subtle message of hope and redemption.
Spoiler: I docked one star because I had to suspend disbelief that a journal would survive a fire that was so hot people poured water over each other so their clothes wouldn't catch on fire.
And a locked room with a window that can be easily opened is not much of a prison.
Schalesky is a great story teller and one I would read again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2015
A freebie book from Bookshout; ended up being something that would have definitely been worth purchasing and was a great introduction to this author. Based on a true historic event, The Great Hinckley Fire of 1894, this work of fiction takes the reader through the horror of that experience from the perspective of characters who might have lived it, all the while building a back-story that is filled with mystery, love, and spiritual awakening. I loved that the identity of the "monster" was not something that could be fully guessed until the very end.
January 7, 2014
I really enjoyed the story. Partly because I live in Minnesota and drive through Hinckley, where the story takes place, every time we go to Duluth or the North Shore. I had heard about the fire but never really knew the impact it made on the community. This is a fictional account but based on stories handed down from the author's husband's family. I had a trouble getting into it at the beginning with all the short sentences, but the story-line was good.
August 15, 2015
Deeply moving
This book tells many stories on many levels. The story of a fire that destroys a town in a western settlement; a story or loss and one of fear, another of deceit.
But most of all it is a story of people and how they come to know God when bad things happen. A story of how truth will come out and how it does set us free.
I recommend this thoughtful, exciting and emotional book to anyone who has endured 'the fire's in their own lives and asked God 'Why'?
This book tells many stories on many levels. The story of a fire that destroys a town in a western settlement; a story or loss and one of fear, another of deceit.
But most of all it is a story of people and how they come to know God when bad things happen. A story of how truth will come out and how it does set us free.
I recommend this thoughtful, exciting and emotional book to anyone who has endured 'the fire's in their own lives and asked God 'Why'?
February 20, 2015
I loved this book, I couldn't put it down! Keep the kleenex box near, you will need it. Based on a real disaster, a fictional story of profound loss, a heart-wrenching mystery, a hateful villain, a love story, a test of faith...this book has it all.
February 22, 2015
Gripping!
Powerful human emotions were displayed throughout this book. I finished it in a day because I just had to know what happened next. The "ghost" was my favorite character; who tugged at my heart throughout the book. Excellently written.
Powerful human emotions were displayed throughout this book. I finished it in a day because I just had to know what happened next. The "ghost" was my favorite character; who tugged at my heart throughout the book. Excellently written.
June 8, 2010
I just couldn't get interested in this one so I gave up on it
July 31, 2011
Exquisite book!---the theme...the truth will set you free.
May 20, 2015
3.7. The fictional story is based on an actual fire that devoured the town of Hinkley and most of the people in the 1800's and the rebuilding process of the survivors.
October 14, 2009
Great start to the book. Interesting plot and characters.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews