All Things Hidden

All Things Hidden by Judy Candis Walk Worthy Press/Warner Books September 2004 $13.95, ISBN 0-446-69315-4

Candis, owner of Bar-B-Q-King in Tampa, Florida, demonstrates in her debut novel that a story about danger, suspense and romance can be convincingly told without vulgar language, graphic violence and steamy sex scenes.

All Things Hidden shares the story of Jael Reynolds, a no-nonsense detective committed to two things: her career, inspired by a childhood tragedy, and her young son, whom she raises alone after a bitter divorce. Just as she has achieved balance--working toward a promotion to lieutenant, serving at her church and tolerating her ex-husband--Jael finds her world rocked by a string of murders in the city. Her faith in God and strength of spirit are put to the ultimate test, as the killer gets personal.

Candis's work is gripping. She does a phenomenal job developing the characters and giving the reader a reason to pull for her protagonist. Her lead character is a black woman many can relate to; she's unabashedly spiritual, strong-willed yet vulnerable when it comes to matters of the heart, as we learn when a handsome FBI agent comes to town to assist with the investigation. The story never lags. The suspense builds as more victims are found, and Jael is forced to question the innocence of even her closest friends. She never hesitates to call on God or to encourage her colleagues and families to do the same. She has instilled the same values in her son, and even her romantic interest has spiritual heft to complement his physical muscles.

Candis trusts her audience enough to weave subtle clues throughout the book and delivers an ending that is surprising, but makes sense if you have been paying attention. Having grabbed the reader's attention, the author takes the opportunity to minister to us, an angle that makes the novel unique.

All Things Hidden raises the bar for Christian-based novels, and it is a worthy first effort from a writer whom we will surely hear from again.

Tracey D. Weaver is a freelance writer in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

COPYRIGHT 2004 Cox, Matthews & Associates
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group