Randy Alcorn: Speculative Fiction

DEADLINE

by Randy Alcorn

TAGS: Speculative Fiction, Suspense Mystery

A friend recommended this book, and since I have enjoyed Randy Alcorn books in the past, I was eager to read it. It did not disappoint! This book was an edifying, challenging and thought-provoking Christian novel.

The story starts with three 50-ish friends: Jake, Doc and Finney. They have been best friends since childhood and have shared many of life’s defining moments: high school, college, war, marriage, children, etc. As an adult, Finney accepted Christ, and this has, at times, caused friction with Doc-- who seemingly enjoys his immoral lifestyle-- and Jake-- who is an ultra-liberal newspaper columnist.

A tragic car accident takes the life of Doc and Finney, leaving Jake behind in despair. This tragedy augments his loneliness, since his selfish personality has left him estranged from his ex-wife, daughter and mother.

At this point, the author does a terrific job describing Finney’s experience in heaven and continues to intersperse his continued experiences throughout the book. Obviously, some of this is speculative, but this aspect of the book was very thought-provoking and encouraging to me as a Christian. I found myself thinking about, and looking forward to, heaven more.

Shortly after the accident, Jake receives a message on a postcard saying, “It wasn’t an accident.” At that point, Jake begins an investigation of the mysterious circumstances surrounding the car crash. This leads him to people and conversations that force him to reconsider some of his biases and attitudes. The various interactions, debates and confrontations that take place throughout this book are so rousing and challenging, I found myself cheering on those characters who were able to say things I’ve wanted to say so eloquently!

As the story evolves, Jake begins to see his life in a different way and is forced to admit his profound neglect of those he loves most.

This book is not a quick read but, rather, a meaty novel, best digested slowly, with time to consider the viewpoints represented. While the book starts out a tad slow, I encourage you to keep reading…you’ll be so rewarded!


Reviewer: Lisa Norsworthy


Randy Alcorn books at Amazon