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What Makes a Great Story?
According to Merriam-Webster.com. the definition of the word fiction is “something invented by the imagination or feigned, specifically an invented story.” Though I agree with that description, novels are oh so much more, especially when it is good fiction. I guess the question is, what is good fiction? Though this is a loaded question that would glean a variety of personal opinions, perhaps good stories have something in common. Perhaps if we review three of the twenty-six new novels that were added to our little library this past winter, we might figure out the answer to that question above and more. How does an author find ideas for their story? What has helped these authors find success in the world of Christian Fiction? What is it about 26 Below, Merlin’s Blade, and The Woman from Lydia that made it a joy to read? Do they all have something in common? Let’s find out!
26 Below by Kimberley Woodhouse
26 Below can be found in our Mystery/Crime fiction category and is the first installment in Kimberley Woodhouse’s newest series, Alaskan Cyber Hunters. The second and third book are to be released later this year (yay!!!). Now before we dive into what factors made this novel a good read, let’s find out a bit about Woodhouse herself.
Woodhouse is a longstanding Christian author with awards to back up her popularity. She is known for her thorough research skills, which adds such richness to her stories (well, at least to this one book I’ve read). Woodhouse, married 31 years as of 2023, credits her husband with the idea for this book when he nonchalantly suggested that the storyline should center around an attack on the power grid when the temperature hits twenty-six below (that’s like -32oC). The final pieces came together when Woodhouse met her future son-in-law, MAJ Steven Whitham, who works in cybersecurity. With Whitham’s knowledge and help, she was able to create a realistic scenario for her characters while not disclosing sensitive information. Moreover, Woodhouse’s love for Alaska, after living there several years, lends credence to the portrayal of that American state. Glossary of terms is included so the reader can be fully immersed into Alaskan culture.
Now time to discuss my opinion of the book which is that I enjoyed it a lot. I love mystery novels, though not thriller type stories with too much drama and suspense. This story was well balanced. Intrigue, interesting plotline, and good characters made this Woodhouse novel a pleasure to read. As previously mentioned, the author’s attention to details from her research and life experiences gives authenticity to the storyline. Woodhouse’s use of dialogue, both internal and between characters, brings the story to life and keeps the reader engaged. Lastly, my favorite aspect of this story is how the gospel is presented through the main character’s struggles. God was very much a part of this novel.
A few disappointing aspects include the gaps in her timeline and the quick resolution at the end. The gaps are not so great that the reader is unable to follow along; however, they must be engaged and take great care to follow the dates and times at the beginning of each chapter or section, while not worrying about dropped conversations. The plotline does flow, and her strategy does lend to the intrigue of the story. We are meant to be kept in the dark somewhat. As for the ending, well, you’ll have to read it for yourself. I don’t want to ruin it for you!
All in all, a good read, and we at The Study Room look forward to adding more of Woodhouse’s books to our shelves.
Merlin’s Blade by Robert Treskillard
Merlin’s Blade by Robert Treskillard can be found in our Teen Fiction section under the genre of Science Fiction/Fantasy. This new-to-us series was actually released between 2012 and 2014 which means we will be able to add the last two books to our shelves sooner than later. Though intended for teens in general, we at The Study Room would recommend this novel to older teens, who will enjoy Treskillard’s writing style.
Robert Treskillard credits his mother and son with the inspiration for this book. His mother, who passed away during the editing stage of this first installment of the Merlin Spiral series, had a “priceless” library of British, Scottish, and Celtic books. Treskillard, based on the rich details included in his writing, spent a lot of time reading those books and immersing himself in the history and culture of the people. Also, Leighton, his son, became interested in blacksmithing which led father and son to explore the craft. All these events lent an authenticity to Treskillard’s writing that draws the reader into the engrossing world of Merlin before there was King Arthur.
Merlin’s Blade centers around a medieval town to where Christianity has spread; however, druids harness the evil powers of a meteorite and attempt to bring the community back into the ways of old. Merlin, who was mostly blinded during a wolf attack, lives with his father, the local blacksmith. Can Merlin’s lack of vision be the saving grace for his community and the Kingdom at large? With a large cast of peripheral characters, authentic dialogue, engaging descriptions, and an abundance of action, Merlin’s Blade is a good novel that demonstrates the struggle of good verses evil. Which side is stronger? Who will win?
As for critiques? Perhaps the level of violence that permeates the book. What is the line between representing the struggle between good and evil and aligning with the carnage as in the days of Noah? Perhaps each reader will have to decide for themselves. As previously mentioned, The Study Room does recommend this book for older teens and adults.
To sum up, Merlin’s Blade was a great addition to our little Christian library. It won’t be long before we order Merlin’s Shadow and Merlin’s Nightmare to round out the collection. Also, rumor has it that Treskillard is currently working on a new series that continues were Merlin left off. We’ll keep you posted!
The Woman from Lydia by Angela Hunt
The Woman from Lydia is the third Angela Hunt book The Study Room has purchased. Though Hunt writes in various genres, this particular book can be found in our Biblical Fiction section, and it is the first in her new “The Emissaries” series.
For starters, I’ve known about Angela Hunt for awhile now, but I definitely didn’t realize what an accomplished writer she was. Hunt has published more that 150 books which has garnered her many awards. Why the success? It probably has something to do with her doctorates in Biblical Studies and in Theology. Her vast biblical knowledge and well-researched historical facts gives her novels depth and interest, and The Woman from Lydia is no different.
The story centers around a widow named Euodia who is a dyer of purple cloth, a retired roman soldier with shrewd business aspirations, and a young slave girl from whom Paul removed evil spirits. The adventure takes the reader to various cities along the Via Egnatia, which is the first-century Roman road in Macedonia (or modern-day Turkey and Greece). Can the roman soldier get the girl’s power restored to her? Will Euodia and her servants reach the young slave in time? Hunt elegantly weaves fascinating historical details throughout the plotline, such as the royal purple dye process and the daily life in the Macedonian towns. Lastly, Hunt uses the personal growth of her character to share the truths of word of God in a manner that is not exaggerated.
Perhaps the only criticism would be the sudden plot twist in the middle of the novel. Possibly, the “thing” that happened could have been better received by the reader had they been better prepared. Perhaps too much time was spent on describing the historical context and not on developing the relationship between these two characters? Perhaps. You’ll have to let me know if you agree or not once you have read the book!
All in all, however, Hunt is off to a great start with this new series, and once again, as with the other two books reviewed, we are anticipating the second installment.
So, the answer to our question of what makes good Christian fiction. The three novels did reveal a few common themes: research, authenticity, and faith-based growth. In each of the novels, the authors were well-researched or very familiar with the setting, customs, and mannerisms of their characters. From modern-day Alaska to mythical England to ancient Macedonia, the reader could lose themselves in these worlds because of the level of details from the author. How the characters spoke, what they did, and how they interacted held true to the time-period and genre. The author’s level of research and use of said research gave credence to the story. Can’t have one without the other. Lastly, an intriguing plotline where the characters grow in their faith and in their relationship with God is what divides good fiction from good Christian fiction. Woodhouse, Treskillard, and Hunt have all shared aspects of biblical truth throughout their novels with the hope, I’m sure, of encouraging believers to grow in their faith and of witnessing to those seeking for truth. May all the books and resources at The Study Room do the same!
A blog post by Nathalie Davidson
May 7, 2024.