LULLABY

Unlike most Christian fiction with prolife themes, this sweet, inspirational novella gently unfolds a tale of how God redeems tragedy for three people in difficult circumstances, without resorting to heavy-handed proselytizing. We learn through flashbacks that the pregnant 15-year-old Merrilee Hunter was raped by a man she now presumes is dead. Her father abandoned Merrilee long ago, and her promiscuous mother recently committed suicide, leaving her alone in the world. Although Merrilee is determined to give up her child for adoption, she comforts herself by writing poignant letters to her "Baby Girl" in her journal. As the story opens, the poverty-stricken and heartsick Merrilee leaves her trailer in the small town of Palmwood, Tex., and travels to Austin to live in Adoption Lifeline's residential home for unwed mothers. There, she selects Steven and Nora Rey, a wealthy older couple struggling with infertility, as the adoptive parents for her baby. The Reys are immediately drawn to Merrilee, although the adoption agency cautions them not to become too emotionally involved. A surprising plot twist causes all of the characters to re-evaluate their plans and their assumptions about each other. The book's strong prolife themes, Orcutt's solid writing and the appealing character of Merrilee should satisfy readers in the CBA market, especially those who have experienced infertility or who are prolife advocates. Orcutt's fellow Christian writers should take note that a message-driven novel can be much more than just a sermon. (Apr.)