A fast-paced, gripping suspense: My review of "The DMZ" by Jeanette Windle

Publisher: Kregel Publications (December 17, 2010)

Environmental reporter Julie Baker returns to Columbia, her birthplace and the site of her missionary parent's death, accompanying a number of politicians and media personal seeking answers to the unexplained deaths of three Americans in the Columbian demilitarized zone. Julie's deeply held hurts, combined with her bitterness for the seeming futility of her parent's lives of service, leads her to sneak into the village where she was born, looking for clarity and answers. Concerned that she is a spy for military intelligence, and desperate to keep hidden their secrets deep in the DMZ jungle, Guerrillas kidnap Julie while she is in the village square. Her abduction triggers an avalanche of events that has the capacity to destroy the US, and reveals secret plans brewing unknown to American intelligence for the last ten years. With the fate of Colombians she knew as a child and the welfare of millions of Americans resting in her hands, Julie learns what love, belief and God's clear call to sacrifice means for her, no matter what her uncertain future may hold.

DMZ is a fast-paced novel that gripped me from the opening scenes. This is actually my second read through the book and will undoubtedly not be my last as I have enjoyed it just as much the second time through! Jeanette Windle is an incredibly skilled author with the ability to transport readers to the world of her characters - in this case war torn Columbia, terrifying guerrilla camps and the beauty of a jungle seemingly untouched by man in all it's created beauty. Windle brings much insight into how civil war has decimated Columbia and yet provides hope in how it still continues to survive. She also provides insight into the hate of Islamic extremists determined to destroy a country they consider the "great Satan". And she ties it all together beautifully with the personal story of a spunky reporter who has to learn what sacrifice means and the many ways sacrifice and love are worth it in the end. Not only does she provide an entertaining read, but she raises important questions about world events and about faith and trust in God at the same time.

I highly recommend this book and give it 5 out of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Kregel, for the purposes of this unbiased review.