The Land Of Darkness

Why, my dear Jadiel, if you do not show up in this house by the next full moon with those leaves, your dear, sweet papa will die the following morning. And that would be such a shame, wouldn’t it?

Book: The Land Of Darkness by C. S. Lakin, Living Ink Books, 2011

Genre: Fantasy

Target Audience: Boys and Girls 12-16

Subjects: Faith

Summary: A Snow White story, Jadiel deeply loves her father but since her stepmother entered her life, nothing has been the same. Now her stepmother is desperate to reverse the effects aging is having on her and threatens Jadiel with the death of her father if she does not leave to seek out leaves from the Eternal Tree. Callen’s story is a bit different. He’s not suffering, but he’s older and more hardened. He is on his own mission though; a mission to find an amazing piece of architecture and carpentry that he has only seen a blueprint of. When they meet on the road, they realize their journeys are leading them to the same place: The Land of Darkness. Along the way there is much for them to learn, for only those with faith can survive the Land of Darkness, let alone find that which they seek.

Notes: Third it the Gates of Heaven series, this story constantly reminds us that Heaven exists. It is personified, almost takes on the role of God Himself. “Heaven favors the honest and valiant” is an example of one of these.  The biggest lesson in this book is faith. Faith changes the nature of the things around them. The bridge becomes visible only when faith is present. The irritating old man who joined them on their journey is the very one who saves Cullen’s life but because of his lack of faith Cullen can not see that. This series is designed to be fairy tales that teach Scriptural truths in fantasy settings.

Recommendation Scale: 5/5

Reviewer: J:-)mi

Hebrews 11:1 – Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.