Author Jeanette Levellie and I made a deal. She had committed to reviewing EYES OF ELISHA for Brandilyn Collins but then discovered it wasn’t her “cup of Starbucks”. What to do? It was a dilemma solved by finding someone else who met the same criteria that had initially won her the book, and I ended up being that person:
- I had never read a Brandilyn Collins novel before;
- I agreed to review it on my blog; and
- I will pass it on to someone else who fits ( 1.) above.
If you’ve never read a Brandilyn Collins novel before and, after reading my review, think you’d like to read EYES OF ELISHA, please leave a comment with your name before 9:00 a.m. PST this Friday, February 12th. I’ll make the draw and post the winner’s name at noon Friday.
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I’ve explained before that I don’t read a lot of Christian fiction. I’m just not into the syrup and slop that characterized my first experiences. Granted, that was decades ago and more recently I’ve found a few Christian authors whose novels I do enjoy. Brandilyn Collins has just become one of them.
From the back cover of EYES OF ALISHA I read, “The murder was ugly. The killer was sure no one saw him. Someone did.“ This didn’t sound like a typical Christian novel to me… and it isn’t.
Like many of us, Chelsea Adams is a Christian living in a secular society where violence happens and visions handed down from God are viewed with skepticism. When she experiences a victim’s last moments in a terrifying vision, Chelsea is compelled to report the murder to the police, but they have neither a body nor evidence of a crime. Using her vision as a guide, she locates the body and an investigation begins that puts more lives in jeopardy, including hers.
Brandilyn Collins manages to combine high suspense with Christian values, treating both with convincing honesty. There is no simplistic moralizing or Bible-thumping evangelizing, just faith, everyday realism, and a nerve-jangling mystery.
I’d rate this a strong four out of five and recommend it to anyone who loves an exciting story. And if you haven’t read any of Brandilyn’s novels and think you’d like to read this one, just let me know. I’ve already provided the review so if your name is drawn you get to sit back and just enjoy the read.
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Zondervan (2001)
ISBN 10: 0-310-27532-6
ISBN 13: 978-0-310-27532-9
MUSINGS 
I haven’t read much Christian fiction, in fact I’m not sure I’ve read any, but this sounds like a good read with elements in it that I would find appealing.
Carol,
I haven’t read any Christion fiction or any of Brandilyn Collins’ work. This sounds like my cup of tea. I’m always looking for new authors to enjoy but it’s hard to find stories that grab you.
Up against the clock here – traveling tomorrow. I haven’t read Christian fiction in years. Plenty of it in my younger days (Christian School), but those novels were always written on stone tablets.
Seriously – the book sounds interesting. Check out Brandilyn’s blog. (I snuck over n’ looked.) Alas – I won’t put my name in the hat as I have no idea what my temporary address will be & our Post Office ain’t so great at holding mail. Good Luck Y’all. D
This definitely sounds like a great book. I haven’t read anything by this author.
Carol, I’m presenting you with the Sunshine Award. You can pick it up at my blog anytime. Thanks for inspiring me.
Christian fiction should be so because the writer is a believer and it will show. But it is not the place to preach, proselytise, or use stereotypical characters. Rather, we should write on universal topics and write good stories. That’s what I try to do in my new book.
Forgot to say… Great review. The story sounds fascinating. BTW, pick less than 12; nobody cares.
this sounds good thanks for the giveaway
I’m very interested in this book! Thanks for a great review!
Carol: you are a woman after God’s and my heart: you keep your word. I’m so happy you enjoyed this book, and I know Brandi is, too.
Bless you,
Jen
P.S. I am having another giveaway on my blog this week: 35 office products in honor of my 35th anniversary–open til Sunday the 14th.
I have read a little Christian Fiction over the years and have come to enjoy it. This book sounds great. Thanks for the chance
jason(at)allworldautomotive(dot)com
Thanks for your comments, everyone. I’ll post the winner at noon PST today.