Thrilling
Captive by Michael Garrett is a thrilling Christian contemporary suspense that drew me in from the start.
The opening chapter raised many questions, before we went back in time six days in chapter two to see what had led up to that moment. It was an edge of your seat moment as we realized something out of character had occurred.
We witness how pressures on a character over time can become a melting pot that bubbles over, causing a path down which one would not usually travel.
Actions always have consequences – for good or bad – and we must be prepared to face them.
Temptation is a major theme. “We’re all tempted; it’s how we resolve the temptation that’s important.” Even Jesus was tempted in the desert. We must stand on the word of God to defeat the enemy. Sometimes the enemy is within and it is us who need reminding of who God is. We always have the choice to repent, confess and return to the straight path.
We see the importance of trusting God. “It was all he could do for her. The rest would be in God’s hands.” We do what we can, and trust God to do what we can’t.
The action is seen from alternating points of view and in the third person. We see lives in trouble – sometimes of our own making but not always. We see a character who wants to make good choices but then the unthinkable happens.
Michael Garrett uses pathetic fallacy as a terrible storm mirrors the inner turmoil. The scenes are vividly painted by the use of descriptive language.
We all need forgiveness – for the little and for the big things. It is important to both give and receive it.
The story reminded me of the story of the prodigal son in the Bible. It is similar but different. It showed a life spiraling out of control but God waited in the wings for the character to return home.
Captive was an exciting suspense. It is not one for the faint-hearted as there are gritty, realistic scenes. The author shows we are all just one bad decision away from out of control lives, but God is always waiting for us to repent and return to Him. Like the father in the prodigal son, God will wait, and then run towards us as He sees us approaching. There will be much rejoicing in heaven as a sinner comes home.
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
JULIA WILSON
