Fallen

by: Matthew Raley

Published by: Kregel Publications

Reviewed by Leslie Granier

Jim holds a powerful position as chairman of the board of a Baptist church. After witnessing Dave, the church’s pastor, exiting an unfamiliar woman’s car, Jim becomes troubled because the pastor has a wife and children. After much internal debate, Jim hesitantly approaches Dave about the incident since he is responsible for maintaining the reputation and purity of this church. Initially, the incident appears to be innocent, but as Dave’s story unravels, the stunning truth becomes apparent. Consequently, Jim must decide how to handle informing the congregation of the pastor’s actions and prepare to deal with the backlash.

The majority of this book is the bantering back and forth between the chairman and the cunning pastor, with each trying desperately to make his point about what constitutes a sin. These conversations will challenge you to consider at what point adultery begins. Does it require sexual activity or can it occur when one shares his intimate thoughts and feelings with one who is not his spouse? Author Raley does a good job of balancing both sides of the argument by offering examples to support both concepts.

Raley has created some interesting characters in this novel. Jim’s struggle to do the right thing for the sake of the church members is tempered by his strong desire to not act in the same ways his father did when he was the chairman years ago. Jim’s internal dialogue is prominently featured, allowing you to experience his anguish about the important decisions he faces. I found myself rooting for him to do the right thing even though other board members tried to downplay the importance of the situation. Dave’s character also stirred up some strong feelings in me. As the truth emerged, it enraged me how someone, especially a pastor, could be involved in such deviousness.

Overall, Fallen is a thought-provoking novel that will challenge both religious and lay people. I would have liked an epilogue to be included. After becoming involved in the story, I want to know what Dave’s eventual fate was. I am also curious as to how the congregation reacted to the news about Dave’s actions.

Armchair Interviews says: Unique topic covered in this novel.

Author’s Web site: http://www.MerChristianity.com