The Wife in the Next Life

Written by Abel Keogh and Julianna Keogh

Narrated by Abel Keogh

I thought about our future and for the second time that day I envisioned a long, happy life together. But when my thoughts focused on the eternities, things got blurry. Could I move forward without all the answers?

We finished lunch and carried our dishes to the sink. As I rinsed off my plate, Abel set his dishes on the counter, stood directly behind me, and placed his hands on my hips. I closed my eyes and leaned against him, enjoying the feeling of our bodies pressed together. I knew if I turned around, Abel would kiss me. I rested the back of my head against his chest unsure if I was ready to take that step.

You don’t have to do this, I reminded myself. You can marry someone else. Someone who doesn’t have a wife in the next life.

***

When Julianna Taylor goes out on a date with Abel Keogh, she’s shocked to discover he’s a recent widower—he’s only twenty-six. As they continue dating, she falls in love, but a relationship with Abel comes with thorny questions about eternal relationships and her place in Abel’s heart. Can she continue without knowing how things will work out?

At some point, we all face questions that don’t have easy answers. How we choose to proceed amid doubt and uncertainty can define the rest of our lives.

This is Julianna and Abel’s inspirational, true story about their struggle to open their hearts and endure with faith even when the answers aren’t forthcoming.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Ben Lomond Press
• Release date: Jun 5, 2023
• ISBN: 9781959945055

Abel Keogh

During the day, Abel works in corporate marketing in the finance industry. At night and during full moons he transforms into a writer which isn't nearly as exciting as, say, turning into a werewolf. He also speaks Bulgarian but doesn't get a chance to practice it except when he’s cut off in traffic or smashes his finger with a hammer. To keep his sanity in check, Abel runs 20-25 miles a week. He uses that time for plotting out his next book, fine tuning his plan for world domination, and keeping up with his marathon running wife, Julianna (a.k.a. Marathon Girl). Abel and his wife live somewhere in the beautiful state of Utah and, as citizens of the Beehive State, are parents of the requisite seven children.