Escape from Doubting Castle is a paperback book by Mary E. Laders. It can be found on Amazon for $7.99. It is also available for Kindle. Book one, Abigail and Her King, has 121 pages with a slightly larger than average font.

The story closely ties with the story of Jesus and how He came to save us from demons, and then left the Holy Spirit to be our guide. Abigail has been sent away from her home, and is now a prisoner locked away. The most evil of princes stands in Abigail’s way from ever returning. Then a Stranger comes and challenges her faith, but still she must fight the darkness that the evil prince continues to threaten her with. There’s suspense and excitement, slightly scary moments, and an abundance of adventure.

My eleven year old son, who is in 6th grade, read this book. He finished it quickly. I think the age range given on Amazon suggesting Escape from Doubting Castle to be for grades 4-6 is pretty accurate. My son’s only complaint was having a pretty good idea how the story would end, based on his knowledge of Scripture. The characters were recognizably Jesus Christ, Satan, the Holy Spirit, and the church. It was a good way to engage the reader and share the idea of the gospel in a different setting. Escape from Doubting Castle causes the reader to think and make comparisons if they have a good knowledge of Scripture, or introduces the gospel to the unbeliever. The gospel isn’t explicitly explained, but the ties are everywhere for those who believe to recognize. The notes in the back offer verses with their references from the story.

We really liked Escape from Doubting Castle. It was easy to read, kept my son entertained throughout, and made him really think. Even weeks later, he’s able to remember the storyline well. If I can provide fun reading material that will challenge him to grow in his faith, I’m thrilled! Book Two is supposed to be released soon. We look forward to it.

-Product review by Adrienne Falkena, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, November, 2018