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The Telling
A prophet never loses his calling, only his way.
Disfigured with a hideous scar from his stepmother, Zeph Walker lives his life in seclusion, cloistering himself in a ramshackle bookstore on the outskirts of town. But Zeph is also blessed with a gift, an uncanny ability to foresee the future,to know peoples’ deepest sins and secrets. He calls it the Telling , but he has abandoned this gift to a life of solitude, unbelief, and despair until two detectives escort him to the county morgue where he finds his own body lying on the gurney.
On the northern fringes of Death Valley, the city of Endurance is home to llama ranches, abandoned mines, roadside attractions...and the mythical ninth gate of hell. Now, forced to investigate his own murder, Zeph discovers something even more insidious behind the urban legends and small-town eccentricities. Early miners unearthed a megalith, a sacred site where spiritual and physical forces converge and where an ancient subterranean presence broods. And only Zeph can stop it.
But the scar on Zeph’s face is nothing compared to the wound on his soul. For not only has he abandoned his gift and renounced heaven, but it was his own silence that spawned the evil. Can he overcome his own despair in time to seal the ninth gate of hell?
His words unlocked something deadly,
And now the silence is killing them.
Disfigured with a hideous scar from his stepmother, Zeph Walker lives his life in seclusion, cloistering himself in a ramshackle bookstore on the outskirts of town. But Zeph is also blessed with a gift, an uncanny ability to foresee the future,to know peoples’ deepest sins and secrets. He calls it the Telling , but he has abandoned this gift to a life of solitude, unbelief, and despair until two detectives escort him to the county morgue where he finds his own body lying on the gurney.
On the northern fringes of Death Valley, the city of Endurance is home to llama ranches, abandoned mines, roadside attractions...and the mythical ninth gate of hell. Now, forced to investigate his own murder, Zeph discovers something even more insidious behind the urban legends and small-town eccentricities. Early miners unearthed a megalith, a sacred site where spiritual and physical forces converge and where an ancient subterranean presence broods. And only Zeph can stop it.
But the scar on Zeph’s face is nothing compared to the wound on his soul. For not only has he abandoned his gift and renounced heaven, but it was his own silence that spawned the evil. Can he overcome his own despair in time to seal the ninth gate of hell?
His words unlocked something deadly,
And now the silence is killing them.
304 pages, Paperback
First published May 15, 2012
8 people are currently reading
1260 people want to read
About the author
Mike Duran
18 books198 followersMIKE DURAN is a novelist, artist, and freelance writer. Mike writes fiction and non-fiction. He is the author of THE GHOST BOX (Blue Crescent Press, 2014), which was selected by Publishers Weekly as one of the best indie novels of 2015 and first in a paranoir series that continues with SAINT DEATH (2016), and THE THIRD GOLEM (2020). He's also the author of several novellas, including KEEPER OF THE WOODS (2024), THE VISITANT (2022), and WICKERS BOG (2016). In addition, Mike has written several non-fiction titles including CHRISTIAN HORROR: ON THE COMPATABILITY OF A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW AND THE HORROR GENRE (2023) and CHRISTIANS & CONSPIRACY THEORIES (2023). Mike's short stories, essays, and commentary have appeared in Breakpoint, Relief Journal, Cemetery Gates Media, The Gospel Coalition, The Stream, Relevant Online, Bewildering Stories, Rue Morgue, Zombies magazine, and other print and digital outlets. Mike is interested in religion, science, conspiracism, media, books & monsters. You can learn more about Mike Duran, his writing projects, cultural commentary, philosophical musings, and arcane interests, at his website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
July 13, 2012
Mike Duran's second novel "The Telling" is an intelligent, well-written thriller about the consequences of ignoring one's calling in the midst of a struggle between good and evil. In some ways reminiscent of Robert McCammon's "Mystery Walk", Duran pens a much darker, more intriguing tale than his also well-written - but somewhat standard - debut novel, "The Resurrection."
In his second outing, Duran serves up plentiful portions of the "weird" and "fantastic" with ancient prophecies, body-snatching demons, quantum physics, parallel dimensions, a burned-out prophet, covert government military experiments and a possibly immortal holy warrior. All centered around a portal to hell, whose opening is imminent.
Once, Zephaniah Walker had a calling. The Voice of God spoke to him, giving him words of encouragement AND chastisement for the faithful. Hundreds flocked to his gatherings, making him a near-celebrity on the revival circuit. But eventually, the continual pressure of having to "perform" on a regular basis - whether he'd received God's Word or not - wears upon Zephaniah. He's only a child, after all. Driven by a zealous, perhaps slightly unbalanced mother determined to keep her gifted boy on his "chosen path".
But his mother dies. His father remarries, they leave the revival circuit behind...and at the hands of his abusive, psychotic step-mother, Zephaniah loses what little faith he has left, loses his way, also. He grows into Zeph Walker, a recluse living on the edge of the desert, near Death Valley, wanting nothing more than to be left alone and forgotten.
But ancient prophecies heed the wishes of no man, not even a burned-out former prophet. Forces far above Zeph still have plans for him, for a rising evil - leaking out from the bowels of Hell itself - is slowly infiltrating the citizens of Endurance. Dark magics, quantum physics, secret government projects collide in a foolhardy attempt to open a portal to Hell. According to an ancient prophecy, only one man can stop it - a man gifted with divine Speech - except there's one problem.
He's no longer talking. Or listening. And he just wants to be left alone. But he finds that impossible, especially when the evil threatening him wears his face.
Consummate blogger and writer Mike Duran has crafted a rich tale tale that mixes and matches its elements, a true genre-blend. There's horror, quantum physics, folk-lore, allegory, secret-government projects, demonic invasion - you name it, it's in there. Published in the Christian Bookseller Association, the story is faith-driven, but by no means agenda-driven, which makes all the difference in the world. It's above-all an excellent, enjoyable story about a broken man coming to terms with himself and his destiny. That, and an impending, demonic invasion from Hell, of course.
One of the most enjoyable characters, however, isn't necessarily the main character but Little Weaver. Indian mystic, angel, immortal guardian of the portal to hell - his character is never fully explained, which is a good thing. Excellent writers don't need to fill in all the blanks for us, not when a character has been so fleshed out and realized. Duran does this here, which only strengthens his tale.
In his second outing, Duran serves up plentiful portions of the "weird" and "fantastic" with ancient prophecies, body-snatching demons, quantum physics, parallel dimensions, a burned-out prophet, covert government military experiments and a possibly immortal holy warrior. All centered around a portal to hell, whose opening is imminent.
Once, Zephaniah Walker had a calling. The Voice of God spoke to him, giving him words of encouragement AND chastisement for the faithful. Hundreds flocked to his gatherings, making him a near-celebrity on the revival circuit. But eventually, the continual pressure of having to "perform" on a regular basis - whether he'd received God's Word or not - wears upon Zephaniah. He's only a child, after all. Driven by a zealous, perhaps slightly unbalanced mother determined to keep her gifted boy on his "chosen path".
But his mother dies. His father remarries, they leave the revival circuit behind...and at the hands of his abusive, psychotic step-mother, Zephaniah loses what little faith he has left, loses his way, also. He grows into Zeph Walker, a recluse living on the edge of the desert, near Death Valley, wanting nothing more than to be left alone and forgotten.
But ancient prophecies heed the wishes of no man, not even a burned-out former prophet. Forces far above Zeph still have plans for him, for a rising evil - leaking out from the bowels of Hell itself - is slowly infiltrating the citizens of Endurance. Dark magics, quantum physics, secret government projects collide in a foolhardy attempt to open a portal to Hell. According to an ancient prophecy, only one man can stop it - a man gifted with divine Speech - except there's one problem.
He's no longer talking. Or listening. And he just wants to be left alone. But he finds that impossible, especially when the evil threatening him wears his face.
Consummate blogger and writer Mike Duran has crafted a rich tale tale that mixes and matches its elements, a true genre-blend. There's horror, quantum physics, folk-lore, allegory, secret-government projects, demonic invasion - you name it, it's in there. Published in the Christian Bookseller Association, the story is faith-driven, but by no means agenda-driven, which makes all the difference in the world. It's above-all an excellent, enjoyable story about a broken man coming to terms with himself and his destiny. That, and an impending, demonic invasion from Hell, of course.
One of the most enjoyable characters, however, isn't necessarily the main character but Little Weaver. Indian mystic, angel, immortal guardian of the portal to hell - his character is never fully explained, which is a good thing. Excellent writers don't need to fill in all the blanks for us, not when a character has been so fleshed out and realized. Duran does this here, which only strengthens his tale.
September 28, 2012
In this spiritually infused “X-Files” styled suspense, author Mike Duran touches on the simple theme of finding one’s way when all seems lost while delivering a moderately paced and, for the most part, satisfying “body snatchers” tale of conspiracy, intrigue, and faith. The Telling is a mystery of sorts, a cozy thriller with a touch of creepiness reminiscent of the days of classic horror. It’s far from cheese, but there are a few cut-out characters that don’t quite outgrow their stereotype – including a pair of inept detectives, a nosy grandmother on the prowl to solve the retirement home body-double mystery, and an odd Native American shaman who is a central figure in the narrative yet who’s purpose and origin remains obscure (which is probably Duran’s intent; still I wanted to know more about Little Weaver).
The actual story centers on Zeph Walker (although Grandma Annie gets POV billing as well) and his journey back to faith. As a child, he was touted as the Prophet of the Plains and received words from God (Tellings, he called them), but through a series of tragic circumstances eventually lost his way – and gained a hideous facial scar. The flashback scenes are compelling and the novel could have simply been about his coming of age, loss of faith, and struggle with his inner demons. But as it stands, the setting of an old Death Valley mining town, and the plot featuring a spiritual rift in the columns that separate heaven-from-earth-from-hell serves the story well – and provides a platform for those inner demons to materialize (literally) into some hapless standbys.
Overall, The Telling is well told. Duran is a good writer, a competent story teller, and taps his creative muse when it comes to plot, crisis, and resolution. A parallel story line introduced early in the book did add to the tension and kept me reading those first hundred pages of set up. But when the action truly kicked it, I felt this second plotline dangled a bit. The two stories did come together, however, and the ending was nicely drawn (if a bit pat), but the climax’s final showdown between Zeph and those aforementioned demons was a bit of a letdown. Still, this sophomore project has all the hallmarks that make for an entertaining (non-proselytizing) spiritual thriller. Recommended for speculative fiction fans of all stripes and rated a solid B+.
The actual story centers on Zeph Walker (although Grandma Annie gets POV billing as well) and his journey back to faith. As a child, he was touted as the Prophet of the Plains and received words from God (Tellings, he called them), but through a series of tragic circumstances eventually lost his way – and gained a hideous facial scar. The flashback scenes are compelling and the novel could have simply been about his coming of age, loss of faith, and struggle with his inner demons. But as it stands, the setting of an old Death Valley mining town, and the plot featuring a spiritual rift in the columns that separate heaven-from-earth-from-hell serves the story well – and provides a platform for those inner demons to materialize (literally) into some hapless standbys.
Overall, The Telling is well told. Duran is a good writer, a competent story teller, and taps his creative muse when it comes to plot, crisis, and resolution. A parallel story line introduced early in the book did add to the tension and kept me reading those first hundred pages of set up. But when the action truly kicked it, I felt this second plotline dangled a bit. The two stories did come together, however, and the ending was nicely drawn (if a bit pat), but the climax’s final showdown between Zeph and those aforementioned demons was a bit of a letdown. Still, this sophomore project has all the hallmarks that make for an entertaining (non-proselytizing) spiritual thriller. Recommended for speculative fiction fans of all stripes and rated a solid B+.
October 4, 2012
I wish I could give it a higher review, but good premise and good writing war with plot and mythology issues.
Zeph Walker is a recluse hiding a secret-a long time ago, he was a miracle working boy prophet. However, his gift has brought him pain, and he fled from it to a life of isolation. Unfortunately it seems he fled into the depths of a nightmare.
People are changing, and dark things stalk the tiny town of Endurance. A small remnant of people worry that the local legend of the Madness of Endurance-a time when the entire town went crazy and suicided-is repeating itself. A small remnant of people are gathered there to fight, but are they enough when it seems the enemy can replace people entirely?
It starts off interesting from the get-go, and there are many wonderfully creepy images and ideas in the book. The focus on normal southwesterners having to fight a supernatural evil is good, too. Characters are interesting and not painfully stupid or unrealistic. The baddies are well-described and creepy as all get out.
Unfortunately though the plot has issues. I think it needed to be slower, to trickle the wild images and ideas slowly rather than it seems explain them early in the book. You get who the adversaries are pretty quickly, and this book in particular really lends itself to a much slower burn, to emphasize the horror.
The mythology has problems too. Not that it's bad or unchristian, but I didn't really get a sense of how it worked. The "language" for one isn't explained for example. Why were they writing it? I wasn't sure why a prophet was needed, and Little Weaver really needed to back up some of the things he said. The images it inspired were great, but they didn't feel unified or explained. I wonder if Mike should create a coherent mythos, because he's got the feel of one down well.
So it's a good book on the verge of being great. Looking forwards to his next.
Zeph Walker is a recluse hiding a secret-a long time ago, he was a miracle working boy prophet. However, his gift has brought him pain, and he fled from it to a life of isolation. Unfortunately it seems he fled into the depths of a nightmare.
People are changing, and dark things stalk the tiny town of Endurance. A small remnant of people worry that the local legend of the Madness of Endurance-a time when the entire town went crazy and suicided-is repeating itself. A small remnant of people are gathered there to fight, but are they enough when it seems the enemy can replace people entirely?
It starts off interesting from the get-go, and there are many wonderfully creepy images and ideas in the book. The focus on normal southwesterners having to fight a supernatural evil is good, too. Characters are interesting and not painfully stupid or unrealistic. The baddies are well-described and creepy as all get out.
Unfortunately though the plot has issues. I think it needed to be slower, to trickle the wild images and ideas slowly rather than it seems explain them early in the book. You get who the adversaries are pretty quickly, and this book in particular really lends itself to a much slower burn, to emphasize the horror.
The mythology has problems too. Not that it's bad or unchristian, but I didn't really get a sense of how it worked. The "language" for one isn't explained for example. Why were they writing it? I wasn't sure why a prophet was needed, and Little Weaver really needed to back up some of the things he said. The images it inspired were great, but they didn't feel unified or explained. I wonder if Mike should create a coherent mythos, because he's got the feel of one down well.
So it's a good book on the verge of being great. Looking forwards to his next.
August 26, 2012
This is like a Christian bodysnatchers, written in the tradition of Frank Peretti. Duran's prose is impeccable, far smoother than Ted Dekker's writing style. The vivid desert landscapes only add to the terror and wonder of the storyline. This book is not for the faint of heart, but if you love being on the edge of your seat, having goosebumps, this book is for you.
November 17, 2015
The Telling is the story of Zeph Walker, who was given the gift of prophecy from God as a child, but a tragedy turned his heart from it and he renounced both God and his gift and chose a life of solitude in the small town of Endurance, CA.
Tamra and her grandmother, Annie, are brought into his life, though--or maybe it's that he's dragged into theirs--when strange things start happening at Annie's nursing home. People are changing, and it turns out there is a very sinister reason. Zeph, of course, is the key to stopping it all.
I was SO impressed by Mike Duran's characterization in this book. Quite the cast of characters, and all of them fully formed. I totally connected with them throughout the book, especially Zeph. And the side character of Little Weaver is just plain cool :).
The setting was vivid, and the plot well-paced. There were a very few, nit-picky things I found, but nothing worth pointing out in a review because it is likely things others won't even notice, and they were very isolated. Not speed bumps in the reading--more like a handful of stray pebbles on the road.
Also, unlike The Resurrection, which reminded me of Frank Peretti's work, The Telling didn't really remind me of any other author. It felt like Mike had come into his own voice more completely.
Anyway, overall I have to say I'd be tempted to go back and knock The Resurrection (his first book) down to a 3-star (from the 4-star I gave it) and Winterland down to a 4-star so I can clearly show how much better I liked The Telling by comparison. Great job.
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My YA fantasy series:
book 1
book 2
Tamra and her grandmother, Annie, are brought into his life, though--or maybe it's that he's dragged into theirs--when strange things start happening at Annie's nursing home. People are changing, and it turns out there is a very sinister reason. Zeph, of course, is the key to stopping it all.
I was SO impressed by Mike Duran's characterization in this book. Quite the cast of characters, and all of them fully formed. I totally connected with them throughout the book, especially Zeph. And the side character of Little Weaver is just plain cool :).
The setting was vivid, and the plot well-paced. There were a very few, nit-picky things I found, but nothing worth pointing out in a review because it is likely things others won't even notice, and they were very isolated. Not speed bumps in the reading--more like a handful of stray pebbles on the road.
Also, unlike The Resurrection, which reminded me of Frank Peretti's work, The Telling didn't really remind me of any other author. It felt like Mike had come into his own voice more completely.
Anyway, overall I have to say I'd be tempted to go back and knock The Resurrection (his first book) down to a 3-star (from the 4-star I gave it) and Winterland down to a 4-star so I can clearly show how much better I liked The Telling by comparison. Great job.
My Website
Find me on Facebook
My YA fantasy series:
book 1
book 2
May 17, 2013
~~~ I won this book in a goodreads giveaway ~~~
Well, to start I didn't find this book to be absolutely horrible. Honestly, I wish I could give it 2 and 1/2 stars, but obviously the site doesnt allow it. As i stated above, I won this book in a giveaway and it was definitely nothing like what I usually read. I did, however, try to keep an open mind throughout; I even read the whole middle chunk in one day just out of pure curiosity about what was going to happen.
BUT the ending. What happened Mike?? I found myself so confused as to what was happening, dreading every page turn, and even counting down the pages til it was over. It had such an excellent start and such a horrid finish. It was just so far fetched and so much of it didn't make sense to me. Maybe it was because I don't read these types of books much because I have noticed that this has a 4 star average at the moment. But still.
***The number one thing that bothered me was when they are about to go and fight the final bad guy, the DARK ANGEL, Fergus. This is what the book has been leading up to the entire time.
"'You are the damned! Little Weaver's voice was almost a growl.
'And to damnnation you shall return!'
'Shut your pie hole!' Fergus bellowed and strected his hand toward Little Weaver."
SHUT YOUR PIE HOLE? REALLY? THATS THE RESPONCE THE DEVILS MAIN ANGEL HAS? WHATTTTTTT
I just. I... That just bothered me so much. Which maybe can explain why I was so uninterested in the ending of the book. Who knows.
Anyways, this book is christian fiction (I think I remember reading on the back that the author is a minister) with a dark twist, it also has a mystery theme to it with a few plot twists or "wtf?" moments. SO, if you're into that kind of stuff go for it.
Well, to start I didn't find this book to be absolutely horrible. Honestly, I wish I could give it 2 and 1/2 stars, but obviously the site doesnt allow it. As i stated above, I won this book in a giveaway and it was definitely nothing like what I usually read. I did, however, try to keep an open mind throughout; I even read the whole middle chunk in one day just out of pure curiosity about what was going to happen.
BUT the ending. What happened Mike?? I found myself so confused as to what was happening, dreading every page turn, and even counting down the pages til it was over. It had such an excellent start and such a horrid finish. It was just so far fetched and so much of it didn't make sense to me. Maybe it was because I don't read these types of books much because I have noticed that this has a 4 star average at the moment. But still.
***The number one thing that bothered me was when they are about to go and fight the final bad guy, the DARK ANGEL, Fergus. This is what the book has been leading up to the entire time.
"'You are the damned! Little Weaver's voice was almost a growl.
'And to damnnation you shall return!'
'Shut your pie hole!' Fergus bellowed and strected his hand toward Little Weaver."
SHUT YOUR PIE HOLE? REALLY? THATS THE RESPONCE THE DEVILS MAIN ANGEL HAS? WHATTTTTTT
I just. I... That just bothered me so much. Which maybe can explain why I was so uninterested in the ending of the book. Who knows.
Anyways, this book is christian fiction (I think I remember reading on the back that the author is a minister) with a dark twist, it also has a mystery theme to it with a few plot twists or "wtf?" moments. SO, if you're into that kind of stuff go for it.
June 14, 2012
What a ride! The Telling is an absolutely incredible story, a book filled with chilling suspense and carefully-crafted scenes that race towards an ultimate show-down between good and evil. Mike Duran writes with a wonderful grasp of the English language, putting details into the pages of his story that cause the characters to leap onto the screen of your mind. Zeph is an awesome character, a survivor of a deeply-troubled childhood who not only has to face the evil beginning to cover the land, but also has to wrestle the darkness inside him that has been gripping him since his horrific past. However, I have to say that my favorite character is the kick-butt grandma, Annie, who refuses to be told what she can and cannot do and so stays faithful to the calling God has placed upon her life. The ending provides a most satisfying conclusion, a reminder of God's victory both in this world and the next, a foreshadowing of the triumphant ending God will one day speak forth over the battle with the evil one.
If you are seeking to be entertained by a master story-teller, and if you enjoy books of suspense and good and evil, where demons and angels and prophecy collide, then this should be a book that you plan on reading. I highly recommend this book and award it 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Realms (Charisma House Book Group), for the purposes of this unbiased review.
If you are seeking to be entertained by a master story-teller, and if you enjoy books of suspense and good and evil, where demons and angels and prophecy collide, then this should be a book that you plan on reading. I highly recommend this book and award it 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Realms (Charisma House Book Group), for the purposes of this unbiased review.
June 5, 2024
Mike Duran's novel "The Telling" might be described as a cross between the spiritual warfare themes of Frank Peretti's "This Present Darkness" and the creeping paranoia of the classic sci-fi movie "Invasion of the Body Snatchers." The small town of Endurance, CA (near Death Valley, aptly enough) was a former mining community that, according to local legend, was once the site of a mass-suicide referred to as "The Madness of Endurance." In the present day, the phenomenon begins to be gearing up for a repeat performance.
From the very first chapter, when protagonist Zephaniah "Zeph" Walker is brought to police headquarters for questioning about a mysterious corpse, Duran captures the readers attention and refuses to let go until the final page. The pacing is very quick, making the book seem like a much shorter read than what it actually is. The reader is fully engaged throughout, and it is almost impossible to put down.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to find an example of "Christian horror fiction."
From the very first chapter, when protagonist Zephaniah "Zeph" Walker is brought to police headquarters for questioning about a mysterious corpse, Duran captures the readers attention and refuses to let go until the final page. The pacing is very quick, making the book seem like a much shorter read than what it actually is. The reader is fully engaged throughout, and it is almost impossible to put down.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to find an example of "Christian horror fiction."
December 31, 2012
I actually had to double check the back cover: this book is pitched as Christian fiction, but to my mind there is nothing Christian about it. It uses Judeo-Christian angelology as a backdrop, but it could just as easily be considered New Age. It is a mildly entertaining piece of sci-fi/fantasy and if you approach it as that and nothing more, then it makes a decent read. The ending is somewhat slipshod and disappointing though. A hesitant 2 stars.
April 24, 2020
Horror writing among Evangelical Protestant writers has vastly improved over the years. Frank Peretti and Ted Dekker have written works of horror fiction that Peretti labels "supernatural thrillers." Duran has no problem with being called a horror writer, and his second book is a very well-written and creepy horror novel. A man struggles between allowing a transdimensional gate to let demons into the world to destroy it or using his God-given power to close it. He has rejected the paranormal gifts he used earlier in life to heal and has rejected his former faith. Yet he must regain it or the earth will be dominated by evil.
Demons have been killing people and taking on the form of their victims' bodies, preparing to dominate the world. The struggle between denying and accepting one's calling is characterized effectively and poignantly. In addition, the book has numerous scary moments that will raise the "creep factor" for many readers. The book, while clearly Christian in tone, is not preachy, and can be read by non-Christians with appreciation. I highly recommend it for all readers who enjoy stories that chill them to the bone.
Demons have been killing people and taking on the form of their victims' bodies, preparing to dominate the world. The struggle between denying and accepting one's calling is characterized effectively and poignantly. In addition, the book has numerous scary moments that will raise the "creep factor" for many readers. The book, while clearly Christian in tone, is not preachy, and can be read by non-Christians with appreciation. I highly recommend it for all readers who enjoy stories that chill them to the bone.
June 19, 2012
With eloquent use of prose, Mike Duran takes a cozy mystery focused on retirement community resident, Annie Lane, and introduces a twisted amalgam of a body snatching, dark fairy mythos.
Ms. Marple, meet X-files.
When Annie begins investigating the strange happenings in her apartment complex, she finds creatures that inhabit the dark recesses. These creatures appear to be stealing the very souls of people in her community, feeding off the regrets and fears of the inhabitants.
Scary, huh? But in a psychological, Lovecraftian or Hitchcockian way, the author makes suggestions that cause the reader to extrapolate what happens next. Rather than appealing to the reader’s guttural fear, he plays with our minds and gives hints without necessarily spilling all the gory details. His excellent and concise use of language draws a surprising picture in the readers mind without being verbose.
These days, horror tends to work toward creeping out the reader by using our empathy to its advantages. We feel the character's pain. Who wants to be forced to saw off their own foot or die? It’s an animalistic fear that almost anyone can understand. It doesn't play with our intellect, it plays with our adrenaline. The Telling is much more psychological. It renews a fear of the dark, whether it’s the physical dark in the corner of your bedroom, or the mental darkness in the corner of your mind. This sort of fear stays with you long after you've pulled the covers up to your chin. It’s personal.
This is the kind of story that reminds me why I like to read horror in the first place. It forced me to consider my own weaknesses, and the source of my strength. A solid, well written book that is fun to read right before bed.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest, not necessarily positive review.
Ms. Marple, meet X-files.
When Annie begins investigating the strange happenings in her apartment complex, she finds creatures that inhabit the dark recesses. These creatures appear to be stealing the very souls of people in her community, feeding off the regrets and fears of the inhabitants.
Scary, huh? But in a psychological, Lovecraftian or Hitchcockian way, the author makes suggestions that cause the reader to extrapolate what happens next. Rather than appealing to the reader’s guttural fear, he plays with our minds and gives hints without necessarily spilling all the gory details. His excellent and concise use of language draws a surprising picture in the readers mind without being verbose.
These days, horror tends to work toward creeping out the reader by using our empathy to its advantages. We feel the character's pain. Who wants to be forced to saw off their own foot or die? It’s an animalistic fear that almost anyone can understand. It doesn't play with our intellect, it plays with our adrenaline. The Telling is much more psychological. It renews a fear of the dark, whether it’s the physical dark in the corner of your bedroom, or the mental darkness in the corner of your mind. This sort of fear stays with you long after you've pulled the covers up to your chin. It’s personal.
This is the kind of story that reminds me why I like to read horror in the first place. It forced me to consider my own weaknesses, and the source of my strength. A solid, well written book that is fun to read right before bed.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest, not necessarily positive review.
May 22, 2012
In The Telling, author Mike Duran has created a rich, completely believable world, populated with some quirky, yet lovable characters. This is the type of book that keeps you turning the pages because you HAVE to know what happens, but at the same time you don't want to read too fast because the writing is incredibly lush and beautiful. My recommendation? Go ahead and read it fast. The first time. Then go back and read it again, slower this time, just to enjoy the journey and the lovely prose.
June 26, 2012
Mike is definitely hitting his stride with this new book! Great characters and perfectly timed pacing, it really keeps the pages turning.
September 26, 2012
Beautifully written. Some plot issues, from my perspective. An interesting story with lots there to think about. Full review coming.
April 30, 2020
Would be 2.5/5 stars but that’s not an option and I decided to round down.
The first quarter of the book is, honestly, a mess. The brevity of chapters and the frequency of the perspective changes made it difficult to gain an affinity for the characters or a grasp of the plot. By the midpoint the characters were more defined and I felt it was picking up, but then we hit the lore/plot dump and charged into the ending. That info dump wasn’t helped by its delivery in parable and metaphor that even the characters in the story didn’t understand.
The writing also made this a struggle. It’s not necessarily bad, but reads more like a talented middle schooler’s story than a published author. The stuttering in dialogue, the over the top cheesy slang, and the similes. Dead God, the similes! It honestly seemed like a middle schooler who just learned what they were and wanted to show off his new knowledge. Sometimes there would be two on a single page, and their quality was also extremely amateur. There was, especially near the ended a fair amount of sympathetic weather that was far too unsubtle for me. Repetitive phrasing was also an issue, as was some absurdly out of place dialogue at the end.
SPOILERS BELOW HERE
Finally, I take issue with this being marketed as a Christian thriller. I’m reasonably sure it was written as a New Age thriller, but then chunks were cut out and random Biblical quotes were tacked on. I’m serious. Other than Zeph’s backstory as a child prophet, not a single Biblical element was tied to the plot. They could have all been cut away and left nothing missing. In fact, I think it would have been improved by focusing on and properly developing the New Age elements instead of trying to walk a line between the two. I mean, you’ve got a book titled Mystery Spots and Magic Landscapes and ancient American Indian prophecies that have more relevance to the plot than the Bible. Zeph’s spiritual awakening comes not from Jesus, but from an apparently 100+ year old Native man with glowing hands. And on top of that, Zeph doesn’t even defeat the fallen angels! Little Weaver’s magic, Tamra’s will, and a stick of dynamite did more than God in this story. And unless the Sacred Tree is some strange reference to Jesus’ cross (and if it is, please explain why it’s made of materials not of this world), the angels’ weaknesses have nothing to do with religion either. Honestly, either a full conversion to Christian based or New Age based would have been better than the weak mix we ended up with.
All that said, it wasn’t an entirely unenjoyable story. My harshness is because I can see how easily it could have been better. I did care about what happened to the characters, and was invested in the story. I just couldn’t help but think there were simple ways that it could have been more than what It is.
The first quarter of the book is, honestly, a mess. The brevity of chapters and the frequency of the perspective changes made it difficult to gain an affinity for the characters or a grasp of the plot. By the midpoint the characters were more defined and I felt it was picking up, but then we hit the lore/plot dump and charged into the ending. That info dump wasn’t helped by its delivery in parable and metaphor that even the characters in the story didn’t understand.
The writing also made this a struggle. It’s not necessarily bad, but reads more like a talented middle schooler’s story than a published author. The stuttering in dialogue, the over the top cheesy slang, and the similes. Dead God, the similes! It honestly seemed like a middle schooler who just learned what they were and wanted to show off his new knowledge. Sometimes there would be two on a single page, and their quality was also extremely amateur. There was, especially near the ended a fair amount of sympathetic weather that was far too unsubtle for me. Repetitive phrasing was also an issue, as was some absurdly out of place dialogue at the end.
SPOILERS BELOW HERE
Finally, I take issue with this being marketed as a Christian thriller. I’m reasonably sure it was written as a New Age thriller, but then chunks were cut out and random Biblical quotes were tacked on. I’m serious. Other than Zeph’s backstory as a child prophet, not a single Biblical element was tied to the plot. They could have all been cut away and left nothing missing. In fact, I think it would have been improved by focusing on and properly developing the New Age elements instead of trying to walk a line between the two. I mean, you’ve got a book titled Mystery Spots and Magic Landscapes and ancient American Indian prophecies that have more relevance to the plot than the Bible. Zeph’s spiritual awakening comes not from Jesus, but from an apparently 100+ year old Native man with glowing hands. And on top of that, Zeph doesn’t even defeat the fallen angels! Little Weaver’s magic, Tamra’s will, and a stick of dynamite did more than God in this story. And unless the Sacred Tree is some strange reference to Jesus’ cross (and if it is, please explain why it’s made of materials not of this world), the angels’ weaknesses have nothing to do with religion either. Honestly, either a full conversion to Christian based or New Age based would have been better than the weak mix we ended up with.
All that said, it wasn’t an entirely unenjoyable story. My harshness is because I can see how easily it could have been better. I did care about what happened to the characters, and was invested in the story. I just couldn’t help but think there were simple ways that it could have been more than what It is.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2025
The town of Endurance has a mysterious past. But it is now home to ranches, abandoned mines, roadside attractions, and the rumoured ninth gate of hell.
Zeph Walker lives in seclusion. He keeps to himself and keeps himself busy with the bookswap on his property. People call him zipperface due to the large and hideous scar he has across his face.
Zeph was also blessed (or cursed) with a gift, an ability to foresee future, to know peoples secrets, to heal. He calls it the Telling, but years ago he banished it, never wanting to use or have the gift again.
That is until 2 detectives show up at his home and escort him to the morgue. There he finds his own body, or the body of something that looks exactly like him lying on the table. Now Zeph is faced with needing to investigate his own murder. In doing so he uncovered urban legends, and tales that early miners unearthed a sacred site where spiritual and physical forces come to life, and not the good kind.
With the help of new found friends, Zeph learns that only he can stop whats happening. He must heal himself and overcome his internal demons before he can save endurance from the spawning ones.
This was an interesting read! A lot more of a biblical and spiritual aspect than anticipated but really liked the supernatural elements.
Zeph Walker lives in seclusion. He keeps to himself and keeps himself busy with the bookswap on his property. People call him zipperface due to the large and hideous scar he has across his face.
Zeph was also blessed (or cursed) with a gift, an ability to foresee future, to know peoples secrets, to heal. He calls it the Telling, but years ago he banished it, never wanting to use or have the gift again.
That is until 2 detectives show up at his home and escort him to the morgue. There he finds his own body, or the body of something that looks exactly like him lying on the table. Now Zeph is faced with needing to investigate his own murder. In doing so he uncovered urban legends, and tales that early miners unearthed a sacred site where spiritual and physical forces come to life, and not the good kind.
With the help of new found friends, Zeph learns that only he can stop whats happening. He must heal himself and overcome his internal demons before he can save endurance from the spawning ones.
This was an interesting read! A lot more of a biblical and spiritual aspect than anticipated but really liked the supernatural elements.
March 6, 2019
This was speculative in the extreme and didn't seem really "Christian." There were parts that perplexed me, but overall, I tracked with the story. The horror wasn't too scary and our broken hero was just so sadly broken. The ending was kind of disappointing. I wanted him to be wildly successful...I will try another book by this author.
February 8, 2023
This book is a freight train on stealth mode. It starts out slow to set up everything that is going on, then gathers steam right up to the end. 4 or 5 pages from the end and you still don’t know how it will playout makes for good reading in my world. I will look for more from this authour. Well done! 🙏🏻🙏🏻👍🏻
August 5, 2020
I loved The Telling. Great characters, great suspense. Loved it!
July 23, 2022
Definitely not my type of book. It's a Christian/Suspense novel. If it was simply suspense it had the potential to be a good story. This will be donated to a local Little Free Library.
August 26, 2025
I quite enjoyed this one. I read it in just two days with minimal sleep because I was enjoying it too much to put down.
September 15, 2012
Some legends have no real basis. They are simply made up stories from an over active imagination. The stuff designed to frighten people or told by campfires. Then there are the legends that are so horrifying and true, you only wish they were made up stories.
In the suspense thriller, The Telling by Mike Duran, the lives of four unique characters are about to intersect at the crossroads of pure evil awakening from a long slumber deep within the hills of Endurance, a small isolated town just north of Death Valley off of Interstate 395. Only some have heard of the legend of the Madness of Endurance, a mass suicide of the residents of a small town many years ago that seems to be creeping it's way into the residents of a small convalescent home, Marvale Manor. It seems like one by one, the elderly are just not themselves any more and spend their nights walking the grounds and during the day, they are catatonic. When Annie Lane, begins to notice, she calls her granddaughter, Tamra for help. Like most, they simply believe this is just one of those life cycles all senior citizens go through, but one by one, the mumblings of a strange language and writings on the walls of those that seem to be changing, soon convince Tamra, all is not right in Marvale Manor.
Zeph Walker now lives his life in seclusion, partly because of a horrible scar that has disfigured his face and partly because of the unwanted attention he gets when people learn who he is and what he gift is. He refers to it as the "Telling," a gift he believes that was given to him from God, to become a modern day prophet. He can sometimes see into the lives of the people he comes into contact with, offer a word of advice from God, heal and even curse others with death as though God has spoken through him. But after spending a life being used by others, Zeph has resolved to simply operate a bookstore, called the Book Swap in return for some peace and quite on the outskirts of town.
Now as Tamra has been called to locate a book for her grandmother, she is told the only place she will find this, is at the Book Swap, if she can locate it. When she meets Zeph and reveals the book she is searching for, Zeph knows there is more to this than simply providing her with what she asks. He was told many years earlier that when the time is right, someone will come to him asking for this book, but until such a time, he is to keep it hidden. Only Zeph isn't ready for this. He isn't ready to face his past and contend with using his gift again. But when the shadows in his house, suddenly begin to speak and move, Zeph knows that evil has been set loose and it's only up to him to stop it.
I received The Telling by Mike Duran compliments of Christian Science Fiction and Fantasy Book Tours for my honest review. When I saw the opportunity to review this one and read the back cover, I knew it would be one I had to read. Being a huge lover of Christian Suspense Thrillers, I dove into this one immediately when it arrived and literally inhaled it as quickly as I could turn the pages. Mike does an amazing job at keeping things hidden until the very end without giving too much away and I found myself second guessing what would happen at the end. By the time I was finished, I was left wanting much more than I got and felt that with such a build up through most of the book, the way it ended, was a bit confusing. I found myself going back to re-read the final chapter to see if I had missed something or had gotten a few pages stuck to one another. I felt that the author could have spent a bit more time with the climatic ending then he did, but perhaps that is just my perception in wanting so much more. I like more of a profound prophetic ending then the way it did but overall the book had a great premise. I would rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars, just based on simply how it ended not how it was written overall.
In the suspense thriller, The Telling by Mike Duran, the lives of four unique characters are about to intersect at the crossroads of pure evil awakening from a long slumber deep within the hills of Endurance, a small isolated town just north of Death Valley off of Interstate 395. Only some have heard of the legend of the Madness of Endurance, a mass suicide of the residents of a small town many years ago that seems to be creeping it's way into the residents of a small convalescent home, Marvale Manor. It seems like one by one, the elderly are just not themselves any more and spend their nights walking the grounds and during the day, they are catatonic. When Annie Lane, begins to notice, she calls her granddaughter, Tamra for help. Like most, they simply believe this is just one of those life cycles all senior citizens go through, but one by one, the mumblings of a strange language and writings on the walls of those that seem to be changing, soon convince Tamra, all is not right in Marvale Manor.
Zeph Walker now lives his life in seclusion, partly because of a horrible scar that has disfigured his face and partly because of the unwanted attention he gets when people learn who he is and what he gift is. He refers to it as the "Telling," a gift he believes that was given to him from God, to become a modern day prophet. He can sometimes see into the lives of the people he comes into contact with, offer a word of advice from God, heal and even curse others with death as though God has spoken through him. But after spending a life being used by others, Zeph has resolved to simply operate a bookstore, called the Book Swap in return for some peace and quite on the outskirts of town.
Now as Tamra has been called to locate a book for her grandmother, she is told the only place she will find this, is at the Book Swap, if she can locate it. When she meets Zeph and reveals the book she is searching for, Zeph knows there is more to this than simply providing her with what she asks. He was told many years earlier that when the time is right, someone will come to him asking for this book, but until such a time, he is to keep it hidden. Only Zeph isn't ready for this. He isn't ready to face his past and contend with using his gift again. But when the shadows in his house, suddenly begin to speak and move, Zeph knows that evil has been set loose and it's only up to him to stop it.
I received The Telling by Mike Duran compliments of Christian Science Fiction and Fantasy Book Tours for my honest review. When I saw the opportunity to review this one and read the back cover, I knew it would be one I had to read. Being a huge lover of Christian Suspense Thrillers, I dove into this one immediately when it arrived and literally inhaled it as quickly as I could turn the pages. Mike does an amazing job at keeping things hidden until the very end without giving too much away and I found myself second guessing what would happen at the end. By the time I was finished, I was left wanting much more than I got and felt that with such a build up through most of the book, the way it ended, was a bit confusing. I found myself going back to re-read the final chapter to see if I had missed something or had gotten a few pages stuck to one another. I felt that the author could have spent a bit more time with the climatic ending then he did, but perhaps that is just my perception in wanting so much more. I like more of a profound prophetic ending then the way it did but overall the book had a great premise. I would rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars, just based on simply how it ended not how it was written overall.
September 25, 2012
Mike Duran in his new book “The Telling” published by Realms brings us into the life of Zeph Walker.
From the back cover: A prophet never loses his calling, only his way.
Disfigured with a hideous scar from his stepmother, Zeph Walker lives his life in seclusion, cloistering himself in a ramshackle bookstore on the outskirts of town. But Zeph is also blessed with a gift—an uncanny ability to foresee the future,to know peoples’ deepest sins and secrets. He calls it the Telling, but he has abandoned this gift to a life of solitude, unbelief, and despair—until two detectives escort him to the county morgue where he finds his own body lying on the gurney.
On the northern fringes of Death Valley, the city of Endurance is home to llama ranches, abandoned mines, roadside attractions…and the mythical ninth gate of hell. Now, forced to investigate his own murder, Zeph discovers something even more insidious behind the urban legends and small-town eccentricities. Early miners unearthed a megalith—a sacred site where spiritual and physical forces converge and where an ancient subterranean presence broods. And only Zeph can stop it.
But the scar on Zeph’s face is nothing compared to the wound on his soul. For not only has he abandoned his gift and renounced heaven, but it was his own silence that spawned the evil. Can he overcome his own despair in time to seal the ninth gate of hell?
His words unlocked something deadly, And now the silence is killing them.
The Dictionary defines “Endurance” as, “to bear without resistance or with patience; tolerate” This is what is going on in the town of Endurance and not only in the town but also in the life of Zeph Walker. God gave him a special gift, his stepmother scarred him so he abandoned his gift and secluded himself from the world. Now because of all this the ninth gate of hell is about to be opened and the battle about to be fought. ”The Telling” is definitely an edge of your seat suspense thriller that is going to keep you flipping pages as fast as you can read. Mr. Duran has given us an adventure where the battle for good and evil has never been so important. Underneath this great story there are the themes of restoration, emotional healing, friendship and Divine destiny. I liked “The Telling” and am looking forward to more stories from Mike Duran.
Tour Links
Book link – http://www.amazon.com/Telling-Mike-Du...
Author Blog – http://www.mikeduran.com/
Author Facebook page – http://www.facebook.com/cerebralgrump
*Participants’ links -
Jim Armstrong
Noah Arsenault
Keanan Brand
Beckie Burnham
Brenda Castro
Jeff Chapman
Christine
Theresa Dunlap
Victor Gentile
Nikole Hahn
Bruce Hennigan
Jason Joyner
Julie
Carol Keen
Emileigh Latham
Meagan @ Blooming with Books
Rebecca LuElla Miller
Anna Mittower
Kathleen Smith
Donna Swanson
Jessica Thomas
Steve Trower
Dona Watson
Shane Werlinger
Phyllis Wheeler
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: In conjunction with the CSFF Blog Tour, I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: A prophet never loses his calling, only his way.
Disfigured with a hideous scar from his stepmother, Zeph Walker lives his life in seclusion, cloistering himself in a ramshackle bookstore on the outskirts of town. But Zeph is also blessed with a gift—an uncanny ability to foresee the future,to know peoples’ deepest sins and secrets. He calls it the Telling, but he has abandoned this gift to a life of solitude, unbelief, and despair—until two detectives escort him to the county morgue where he finds his own body lying on the gurney.
On the northern fringes of Death Valley, the city of Endurance is home to llama ranches, abandoned mines, roadside attractions…and the mythical ninth gate of hell. Now, forced to investigate his own murder, Zeph discovers something even more insidious behind the urban legends and small-town eccentricities. Early miners unearthed a megalith—a sacred site where spiritual and physical forces converge and where an ancient subterranean presence broods. And only Zeph can stop it.
But the scar on Zeph’s face is nothing compared to the wound on his soul. For not only has he abandoned his gift and renounced heaven, but it was his own silence that spawned the evil. Can he overcome his own despair in time to seal the ninth gate of hell?
His words unlocked something deadly, And now the silence is killing them.
The Dictionary defines “Endurance” as, “to bear without resistance or with patience; tolerate” This is what is going on in the town of Endurance and not only in the town but also in the life of Zeph Walker. God gave him a special gift, his stepmother scarred him so he abandoned his gift and secluded himself from the world. Now because of all this the ninth gate of hell is about to be opened and the battle about to be fought. ”The Telling” is definitely an edge of your seat suspense thriller that is going to keep you flipping pages as fast as you can read. Mr. Duran has given us an adventure where the battle for good and evil has never been so important. Underneath this great story there are the themes of restoration, emotional healing, friendship and Divine destiny. I liked “The Telling” and am looking forward to more stories from Mike Duran.
Tour Links
Book link – http://www.amazon.com/Telling-Mike-Du...
Author Blog – http://www.mikeduran.com/
Author Facebook page – http://www.facebook.com/cerebralgrump
*Participants’ links -
Jim Armstrong
Noah Arsenault
Keanan Brand
Beckie Burnham
Brenda Castro
Jeff Chapman
Christine
Theresa Dunlap
Victor Gentile
Nikole Hahn
Bruce Hennigan
Jason Joyner
Julie
Carol Keen
Emileigh Latham
Meagan @ Blooming with Books
Rebecca LuElla Miller
Anna Mittower
Kathleen Smith
Donna Swanson
Jessica Thomas
Steve Trower
Dona Watson
Shane Werlinger
Phyllis Wheeler
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: In conjunction with the CSFF Blog Tour, I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
September 25, 2012
“As they parted, Little Weaver exhorted them again. “The light—the dark angels hate the light. Go home and turn on every light in your house. The shadows are their essence, and the Holy One is their bane. When morning dawns, open all the blinds. And in your hearts—aha!—unfurl the shutters,” He laughed.” – Pg. 187
The Telling by Mike Duran effectively draws you into the town of Endurance and it’s creepy science experiments that hold supernaturally explosive consequences.
Zeph Walker was the Prophet of the Plains—the child who could prophesy death and life like the prophets of old. His mother’s death and his step-mother’s fury left the power—the Telling—dark and unresponsive when at his mother’s grave he renounced it all. But the remnant watches this boy grow into a man. He moves back to Endurance, buys some property, and keeps the book swap open. Zeph keeps his scarred face turned away from people, preferring the isolation of his property. It’s easier that way.
Then, Endurance begins to change. The Marvale Manor has residents who are changing, and Annie tries to explain to her granddaughter, Tamra, that it’s the Madness of Endurance all over again. A prophecy is coming true and the ninth gate of hell trembles on the verge of splitting the land wide open with an army of dark angels. Only one man can stand in its way.
And I thought that man was Zeph Walker. That’s where it got a little confusing. Mike Duran built up Zeph throughout the novel and I expected a big scene where Zeph in the caverns would be the one who stopped the dark army. The ending disappointed me a little because Zeph Walker’s build up seemed to sizzle. It’s Little Weaver who shines and stands to save the town of Endurance. And yet, Zeph has a part to play, too.
“”Do you remember how you said the dark angels feed on our regrets, our disappointment? It’s like the darkness inside of us is their magnet, then I’m like a twelve-course meal. As long as I hold onto this garbage, let this fear, this bitterness eat me up—as long as I keep runnin’—they have power here. I can’t stand before them.” He gestured toward Otta’s Rift.” – Pg. 246
Mike Duran crafts the story so it chills you, building the suspense, bringing you reluctantly closer to the ninth gate of hell. It seems like, in my opinion, that he uses a lot of new age and occult information combined with scripture, but in a way where I only question it once. Should we so blatantly use scripture to manipulate a fictional prophecy? It’s uniquely and masterfully done that it’s almost believable. Mike Duran realistically portrays the personality of Death Valley and its surrounding towns, made up or real.
Lastly, the way he uses the old marquee at the town’s abandoned theater to be prophetic in itself leaves Endurance haunted by its legend as if the supernatural stirs still in the dry dust of Endurance long after the army of dark angels has been vanquished.
I gave the novel four stars for great story telling, but struggled justifying a five because of the realistic use of scripture in a false prophecy that I have never read yet in a novel. In the past, novels have explored theologies in fiction, but this mix of the occult, new age, and scripture felt new to me. Would I read this again?
I don’t know.
In conjunction with the CSFF Blog Tour, I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
The Telling by Mike Duran effectively draws you into the town of Endurance and it’s creepy science experiments that hold supernaturally explosive consequences.
Zeph Walker was the Prophet of the Plains—the child who could prophesy death and life like the prophets of old. His mother’s death and his step-mother’s fury left the power—the Telling—dark and unresponsive when at his mother’s grave he renounced it all. But the remnant watches this boy grow into a man. He moves back to Endurance, buys some property, and keeps the book swap open. Zeph keeps his scarred face turned away from people, preferring the isolation of his property. It’s easier that way.
Then, Endurance begins to change. The Marvale Manor has residents who are changing, and Annie tries to explain to her granddaughter, Tamra, that it’s the Madness of Endurance all over again. A prophecy is coming true and the ninth gate of hell trembles on the verge of splitting the land wide open with an army of dark angels. Only one man can stand in its way.
And I thought that man was Zeph Walker. That’s where it got a little confusing. Mike Duran built up Zeph throughout the novel and I expected a big scene where Zeph in the caverns would be the one who stopped the dark army. The ending disappointed me a little because Zeph Walker’s build up seemed to sizzle. It’s Little Weaver who shines and stands to save the town of Endurance. And yet, Zeph has a part to play, too.
“”Do you remember how you said the dark angels feed on our regrets, our disappointment? It’s like the darkness inside of us is their magnet, then I’m like a twelve-course meal. As long as I hold onto this garbage, let this fear, this bitterness eat me up—as long as I keep runnin’—they have power here. I can’t stand before them.” He gestured toward Otta’s Rift.” – Pg. 246
Mike Duran crafts the story so it chills you, building the suspense, bringing you reluctantly closer to the ninth gate of hell. It seems like, in my opinion, that he uses a lot of new age and occult information combined with scripture, but in a way where I only question it once. Should we so blatantly use scripture to manipulate a fictional prophecy? It’s uniquely and masterfully done that it’s almost believable. Mike Duran realistically portrays the personality of Death Valley and its surrounding towns, made up or real.
Lastly, the way he uses the old marquee at the town’s abandoned theater to be prophetic in itself leaves Endurance haunted by its legend as if the supernatural stirs still in the dry dust of Endurance long after the army of dark angels has been vanquished.
I gave the novel four stars for great story telling, but struggled justifying a five because of the realistic use of scripture in a false prophecy that I have never read yet in a novel. In the past, novels have explored theologies in fiction, but this mix of the occult, new age, and scripture felt new to me. Would I read this again?
I don’t know.
In conjunction with the CSFF Blog Tour, I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
August 23, 2013
Update(this review also appears on MissLacey'sReviews
The Telling by Mike Duran is............AMAZING!! Not to get too "OMG I LUV IT!" but I do. I love it!! I was amazed at how amazing this book was. I am not going to lie, it was a random pick up at the library and after two chapters, I fell in love. I only paid attention to this book for three days. My husband could not believe how much I was enjoying this book. I think he even got jealous...anyways, the synopsis of The Telling:
A prophet never loses his calling, only his way. Disfigured with a hideous scar from his stepmother, Zeph Walker lives his life in seclusion, cloistering himself in a ramshackle bookstore on the outskirts of town. But Zeph is also blessed with a gift—an uncanny ability to foresee the future, to know peoples’ deepest sins and secrets. He calls it the Telling, but he has abandoned this gift to a life of solitude, unbelief, and despair—until two detectives escort him to the county morgue where he finds his own body lying on the gurney. On the northern fringes of Death Valley, the city of Endurance is home to llama ranches, abandoned mines, roadside attractions...and the mythical ninth gate of hell. Now, forced to investigate his own murder, Zeph discovers something even more insidious behind the urban legends and small-town eccentricities. Early miners unearthed a megalith—a sacred site where spiritual and physical forces converge and where an ancient subterranean presence broods. And only Zeph can stop it. But the scar on Zeph’s face is nothing compared to the wound on his soul. For not only has he abandoned his gift and renounced heaven, but it was his own silence that spawned the evil. Can he overcome his own despair in time to seal the ninth gate of hell? His words unlocked something deadly, And now the silence is killing them.
Eh, what did I say?! Even the summary of The Telling intrigues me. Like I said, I have never heard of the book or even the author until I picked this up. The writing was great and the book overall (as stated earlier) was amazing. Do I recommend this book? YES!! If you have eyes, and can read, (and don't mind being a little terrified) then read The Telling by Mike Duran and I promise you will not be let down. Granted, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but mine is that this is great. Thank you Mr. Duran.
Mrs. Lacey
I actually really enjoyed this book. I love the way Mike Duran writes. I was entertained throughout the entire book and I love that he kept me guessing on what and who. I am definitely a fan of Mike Duran and look forward to reading his other books.
The Telling by Mike Duran is............AMAZING!! Not to get too "OMG I LUV IT!" but I do. I love it!! I was amazed at how amazing this book was. I am not going to lie, it was a random pick up at the library and after two chapters, I fell in love. I only paid attention to this book for three days. My husband could not believe how much I was enjoying this book. I think he even got jealous...anyways, the synopsis of The Telling:
A prophet never loses his calling, only his way. Disfigured with a hideous scar from his stepmother, Zeph Walker lives his life in seclusion, cloistering himself in a ramshackle bookstore on the outskirts of town. But Zeph is also blessed with a gift—an uncanny ability to foresee the future, to know peoples’ deepest sins and secrets. He calls it the Telling, but he has abandoned this gift to a life of solitude, unbelief, and despair—until two detectives escort him to the county morgue where he finds his own body lying on the gurney. On the northern fringes of Death Valley, the city of Endurance is home to llama ranches, abandoned mines, roadside attractions...and the mythical ninth gate of hell. Now, forced to investigate his own murder, Zeph discovers something even more insidious behind the urban legends and small-town eccentricities. Early miners unearthed a megalith—a sacred site where spiritual and physical forces converge and where an ancient subterranean presence broods. And only Zeph can stop it. But the scar on Zeph’s face is nothing compared to the wound on his soul. For not only has he abandoned his gift and renounced heaven, but it was his own silence that spawned the evil. Can he overcome his own despair in time to seal the ninth gate of hell? His words unlocked something deadly, And now the silence is killing them.
Eh, what did I say?! Even the summary of The Telling intrigues me. Like I said, I have never heard of the book or even the author until I picked this up. The writing was great and the book overall (as stated earlier) was amazing. Do I recommend this book? YES!! If you have eyes, and can read, (and don't mind being a little terrified) then read The Telling by Mike Duran and I promise you will not be let down. Granted, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but mine is that this is great. Thank you Mr. Duran.
Mrs. Lacey
I actually really enjoyed this book. I love the way Mike Duran writes. I was entertained throughout the entire book and I love that he kept me guessing on what and who. I am definitely a fan of Mike Duran and look forward to reading his other books.
February 21, 2021
**Originally posted on www.bunnycates.com **
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=...
I discuss this at 10:59 in the video above
My Thoughts:
I read this book in about a day. And I have to tell ya, according to my reading updates on goodreads… I may have liked this book. Just a little.
Being October, I was really in the mood for something to freak me out, and THE TELLING did just that. The story has a strong religious base with that age old battle the we all love – Good vs Evil. Will someone be able to stop it before the 9th Gate bursts open and all Hell breaks loose? Literally.
The book has rich characters, I totally loved Zeph. He is the main protagonist in our story and perfect in that flawed, reluctant hero, sort of way. You know that one guy, who everyone knows will save us but he doubts himself so much that he thinks everyone is CRAZY for putting their faith in him. Yeah, that guy. I loved him. He is like that little puppy thats been kicked so many times that it knows better than to trust a person but still for some reason – with those big puppy eyes – he trusts just one more time. The question is, will he get kicked in the face again or will he save the day?! haha..
I don’t want to go into a lot of the plot for you, because I don’t want to spoil ANY of the book! What I will tell you is, in my mind, this story reminded me of several of my favorite Hollywood films: The Ninth Gate, End Of Days, Constantine, Invasion of the Body Snatchers… All of my favorite things from these movies, were woven into this book. The action of it, the idea of it, all of it . It was awesome.
In Conclusion:
Loved this one. It was my favorite read from October. I say pick it up if you’re looking for something that is paranormal scary!
Mom Notes:
Contains violence and strong religious components. Ages 13+
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=...
I discuss this at 10:59 in the video above
My Thoughts:
I read this book in about a day. And I have to tell ya, according to my reading updates on goodreads… I may have liked this book. Just a little.
Being October, I was really in the mood for something to freak me out, and THE TELLING did just that. The story has a strong religious base with that age old battle the we all love – Good vs Evil. Will someone be able to stop it before the 9th Gate bursts open and all Hell breaks loose? Literally.
The book has rich characters, I totally loved Zeph. He is the main protagonist in our story and perfect in that flawed, reluctant hero, sort of way. You know that one guy, who everyone knows will save us but he doubts himself so much that he thinks everyone is CRAZY for putting their faith in him. Yeah, that guy. I loved him. He is like that little puppy thats been kicked so many times that it knows better than to trust a person but still for some reason – with those big puppy eyes – he trusts just one more time. The question is, will he get kicked in the face again or will he save the day?! haha..
I don’t want to go into a lot of the plot for you, because I don’t want to spoil ANY of the book! What I will tell you is, in my mind, this story reminded me of several of my favorite Hollywood films: The Ninth Gate, End Of Days, Constantine, Invasion of the Body Snatchers… All of my favorite things from these movies, were woven into this book. The action of it, the idea of it, all of it . It was awesome.
In Conclusion:
Loved this one. It was my favorite read from October. I say pick it up if you’re looking for something that is paranormal scary!
Mom Notes:
Contains violence and strong religious components. Ages 13+
September 30, 2012
THE TELLING
By Mike Duran
Endurance, California lies along the northern fringes of Death Valley and is home to the mythical ninth gate of hell. Endurance is also the home of Zeph Walker a young man who has lost his way. As a child Zeph was known for his gift of prophecy. But when he is scarred both physically and emotionally, Zeph pulls into himself, trying to lock out the world.
But we can't hide from our destiny as Zeph learns eight years later when Tamra Lane walks into the Book Swap looking for a rare book called Mystery Spots and Magic Landscapes and a being that could be Zeph's twin is found murdered near his home.
Endurance is in danger and if the evil that has awakened can escape no one will live to see another day, but who can be trusted? Evil has a way of pervading and Endurance just how far it has reached into the soul of the town.
But a remnant has been waiting and they are willing to stand in the gap against the darkness. But can Zeph find his way back to his calling while he still has time?
If you like the writing styles of Ted Dekker or Frank Peretti, give The Telling a try.
In conjunction with the CSFF Blog Tour, I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
By Mike Duran
Endurance, California lies along the northern fringes of Death Valley and is home to the mythical ninth gate of hell. Endurance is also the home of Zeph Walker a young man who has lost his way. As a child Zeph was known for his gift of prophecy. But when he is scarred both physically and emotionally, Zeph pulls into himself, trying to lock out the world.
But we can't hide from our destiny as Zeph learns eight years later when Tamra Lane walks into the Book Swap looking for a rare book called Mystery Spots and Magic Landscapes and a being that could be Zeph's twin is found murdered near his home.
Endurance is in danger and if the evil that has awakened can escape no one will live to see another day, but who can be trusted? Evil has a way of pervading and Endurance just how far it has reached into the soul of the town.
But a remnant has been waiting and they are willing to stand in the gap against the darkness. But can Zeph find his way back to his calling while he still has time?
If you like the writing styles of Ted Dekker or Frank Peretti, give The Telling a try.
In conjunction with the CSFF Blog Tour, I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
May 14, 2013
Mike Duran's "The Telling" is his finest work to date. The story is a supernatural thriller/horror that seems foreign and yet oddly familiar. It brings to mind "Invasion of the Body Snatchers", along with a whole host of classic and modern speculative stories. There are echoes of Stephen King and Dean Koontz, of Ted Dekker and Frank Peretti and even H.P. Lovecraft. There is liberal use of the prophecy books of the Bible, without pandering to preachiness. "The Telling" is a big step-up from "The Resurrection". The story is more interesting, tightly-written and focused. Characters are well-realised, identifiable and span several demographics. Duran's use of descriptive language is more balanced this time around and a real treat to read. The beginning of the story takes some getting used to as several character P.O.V's are employed, and in rapid succession. It can be a lot to take in. Zephaniah Walker is the lead protagonist. He's a prophet who has given up on his calling and now lives as a hermit. One day he's called to investigate a body - his. And the horrific adventure between Earth, Heaven and Hell begins. I highly recommended "The Telling".
8.5/10
8.5/10
September 26, 2012
Take a good long look at the cover of "The Telling" because that cover is perfect for what the pages between it holds. This novel is not for the faint of heart. It's dark, edgy, mysterious as well as a bit disturbing and guaranteed to make your heart pound. It's everything a good captivating page-turner should be, and then some!
Listed as Christian fiction, "The Telling" is far from an "in-your-face" Christian type of book. It is subtle and can be enjoyed by anyone who just loves a good and at times scary story. Mike Duran is a fantastic storyteller that captivates the reader from the beginning. As the story unfolds, you won't want to put this book down because you won't be able to wait find out what happens next. With short chapters, it's easy to do this, as you keep telling yourself that you'll only read one more chapter...
Anyone who enjoys such authors as Ted Dekker and Frank Peretti will certainly enjoy Mike Duran's "The Telling". Make sure to add it to your MUST read list!!
In conjunction with the CSFF Blog Tour, I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a favorable review.
Listed as Christian fiction, "The Telling" is far from an "in-your-face" Christian type of book. It is subtle and can be enjoyed by anyone who just loves a good and at times scary story. Mike Duran is a fantastic storyteller that captivates the reader from the beginning. As the story unfolds, you won't want to put this book down because you won't be able to wait find out what happens next. With short chapters, it's easy to do this, as you keep telling yourself that you'll only read one more chapter...
Anyone who enjoys such authors as Ted Dekker and Frank Peretti will certainly enjoy Mike Duran's "The Telling". Make sure to add it to your MUST read list!!
In conjunction with the CSFF Blog Tour, I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a favorable review.
June 20, 2012
Zeph Walker's has been horrible disfigured by his Step-Mother. He lives a very reclusive life, and made himself a prisoner with both physical and spiritual scars.
He runs a book…well a help yourself book store.
I felt like I was in a movie…full of evil…reminiscent of the Sci-Fi Chanel. People are still there, but not the same…their souls are missing?
The book opens with Zeph being asked to identify his own body in the morgue…yes it was him…but it wasn't! We find out that he is a reluctant Prophet and is rejecting God.
Don't miss this page turning read, you won't be able to put it down.
I received this book from First Wild Card Tours, and the Publisher Realms, and was not required to give a positive review.
He runs a book…well a help yourself book store.
I felt like I was in a movie…full of evil…reminiscent of the Sci-Fi Chanel. People are still there, but not the same…their souls are missing?
The book opens with Zeph being asked to identify his own body in the morgue…yes it was him…but it wasn't! We find out that he is a reluctant Prophet and is rejecting God.
Don't miss this page turning read, you won't be able to put it down.
I received this book from First Wild Card Tours, and the Publisher Realms, and was not required to give a positive review.
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