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COIL #2

Dark Hearted

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The COIL SERIES -- Book Two. The saga continues from Dark Liaison, and suspense heightens in DARK HEARTED as COIL strives to preserve God's people while searching for abducted operatives, only to uncover an evil plot in Europe.

The Commission of International Laborers' mission is interrupted, and they are again targeted by a dark enemy bent on hatred and racism. COIL founder Corban Dowler musters all his resources to help in his quest, and prays they can stop the evil intentions of the one they know as Abaddon.

A biochemical weapon is about to change the world, and COIL may be the catalyst-unless their brazen courage and boldness in Christ can change the tide. Where death seems inevitable, Corban's agents carry God's love and determination into the midst of darkness, defying odds, yet trusting God.

In this international thriller, Corban leads the COIL team through a maze of intrigue and persecution, joy and sorrow, love and death-from a grim forest in Europe, to a blistering desert in Africa. Though killing is not COIL's way, the dark-hearted one has no such qualms.

DARK HEARTED, Book Two in The COIL Series by D.I. TELBAT, and cover art by Streetlight Graphics, is a Christian action-suspense with themes of espionage, Christian persecution, rescue missions, and spiritual warfare. D.I. Telbat wishes to show how the lives of satanic agents bent on hatred contrast with the COIL operatives protecting and standing for righteousness. And again you'll find . . . there is no redemption without sacrifice.

318 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 28, 2012

182 people are currently reading
30 people want to read

About the author

D.I. Telbat

55 books72 followers
I've been writing novels and short stories since I was a young teen. God has greatly impacted me, and I now desire to honor the Lord with my life and writing.

My stories can be read in several online and print publications, as well as three anthologies. My bestselling COIL Series include novels Dark Liaison, Book One; Dark Hearted, Book Two; Dark Rule, Book Three; and Dark Vessel, Book Four, and are available at most e-retailers, as are Jaguar Dusk, a Christian Special Forces novel, Sea Scribe, a Covert Christian Mission Suspense, and End Times Novel, God's Colonel. See my website for other novels and stories added often, including Dark Cover, COIL Book Five, to be out late 2014.

I offer free weekly Christian short stories, or serialized novels, my Author Reflections, and occasional challenges to the Christian Church on my Telbat's Tablet blog at http://ditelbat.com.

When I'm not writing, I'm very involved in Christian ministry. I've kept my home office in the NW U.S. where my assistant, Dee, lives and helps with my editing and writing needs.

My motto: There is no redemption without sacrifice.

[This is Dee K. Borah. I work with David Telbat and will be managing his Goodreads account for him. All reviews and bookshelves belong to D.I. Telbat.]

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5 stars
258 (74%)
4 stars
65 (18%)
3 stars
17 (4%)
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3 (<1%)
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3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Profile Image for MARSHA.
32 reviews
June 9, 2012
One of the reasons I do not like the action adventure thriller type movies of today is that it contains an excessive amount of unnecessary foul language, action so extreme that it becomes makes the story line unbelievable and naked women who add nothing to the movie. Books are so much better.
“Dark Hearted”, by D. I. Telbat, is what I would consider the perfect suspense book. Continuing the activities of COIL, a team of specialized agents trained to rescue Christian missionaries from persecution, this is book two of what looks to be a great Christian influenced series. A combination of Dog the Bounty Hunter and Mission Impossible the team put their lives on the line traveling all over the world while on their missions.
What makes a book great is the amount of involvement the reader has with the characters. With “Dark Hearted” I was captivated from the beginning compelled to continue reading.
A good book takes you where the characters are. As I read: I was jumping out of the plane with the team, riding in the car avoiding capture, passing off secret documents, I was in New York, I was in Paris and I was in America.
“Dark Hearted” is a fast paced book with adventure on every page so much better than a movie. I cannot imagine a person trying to read this book over a prolonged period of time. Plan to shut the television off and read “Dark Hearted” over the weekend.


I was given a complimentary eBook in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Peter Younghusband.
367 reviews51 followers
June 22, 2016
This is the third book in this COIL series that I have read and I am loving every minute of them. I don't think I could get tried of this series or its themes of Christian special ops rescuing persecuted Christians as despite this being similar in other novels or in real life (special ops rescuing those kidnapped/captured, not necessarily due to their faith but for any reason that their captors feel they are a threat to their nefarious schemes), it is especially relevant in Christian circles as the Bible states that once you have a relationship with Christ, you will suffer persecution just for accepting His gift of salvation.

I may have stated in a previous review of a COIL novel that this series is not the only series in this topic of rescuing persecuted Christians or those in a persecuted Church. I am very glad to see authors apart from Telbat, such as Martin Roth and Lela Gilbert tackle this reality head on and portray what it is like for the persecuted Christian Church and Christians and the severity of such just for believing in Christ. We in the western world do not experience such persecution to this degree, but it seems to be growing as seen by prayer/bible verse reading is removed from schools, testimonies are not based on swearing on the bible in court, society being indoctrinated to accept everything and anything as long as it does not align with the Bible, Christianity or God and now punishment is being metered out to those who adhere to the latter. There are many novels written by Christian authors depicting the future where Christianity and everything that is associated with it is banned and anyone who shows any sympathy or adherence to it is imprisoned or murdered.

I have noticed that Telbat seems to explore more of the motive and the rationale for this persecution in his novels than the aforementioned authors. I, by not means, suggest that this is a criticism of Roth and Gilbert. I thoroughly enjoyed and have been blessed by these two authors and the reality of persecution of Christians and their Church that they have successfully and convincingly depict. Telbat's deeper exploration adds up to a very fast paced novel but also adds to the suspense and showcases the commitment to the call of Christ to the Great Commission and to not allow the enemies of Christ to have their way with God's people. All three authors depict correctly what this motivation is, spiritual warfare, however, let us not confuse this latter term with many novels of this genre (which I love), where it is based on the fight between angles and demons. In all Telbat's novels, this spiritual warfare is specifically depicted based on intercessory prayer, supplication and relying on God and His Spirit to guide, protect and seek direction in how to thwart the attempts of those who, out of hatred, bitterness, rebellion against God and under either demonic oppression or possession, desire to eradicate Christianity and everything to do with God.

I admire how successful Telbat portrays the discipline, submission, and obedience of the COIL team in relation to their relationship with God, yet portray them as relational and very human. If Telbat had depicted this team as super-spiritual and not relational as people, this series would fall flat on its face and readers would not be able to relate it as it as well as he has and would come across as unrealistic and fantasy based and removed from any sense of reality. Entertaining yes, but empowering to the Christian reader to appreciate the persecution of our Christian brethren in the real world and pray for them, most likely not. There is enough Christians unempowered and ignorant of this issue without an author adding to this by failing to depict the reality of this persecution and its causes in their novels. I cannot put Telbat in this latter category, neither Roth nor Gilbert. This is very uplifting and definitely strengthens my faith in God and appreciate more the reality of what Christ meant in portraying the persecution Christians will experience now and in the latter days.

I must say that I wish I had read this instalment sooner or immediately after reading the previous novel as this one follows on from this as a continuation and I could not remember some of the details of Dark Liaison but then this is exactly the situation for those readers who have read each instalment as it was released. The joy of discovering novels like this after they have all been released! I am glad now that I am reading all these one after the other as I feel this is the best way to appreciate a series like this, but that does not help the author as they need reviews as each book is released not solely at the end of the completed series. However, such a comment from any reader is still an affirmation for an author's work and this is very appropriate for Telbat as an author.

This instalment continues the standard that Telbat has instigated in this series and I can see that this is not going to abate. He simply cannot afford to with a serious and powerful message and topic such as the Great Commission and persecution against Christians. This is very evident in the plot structure, characterisation and depiction of the cause of this persecution which makes for great suspense and action, and it is here that this series shines and delivers its powerful message.

I loved how in this instalment it shows an unbeliever (June) exactly what the COIL team go through in combating persecution from the Biblical point of view while simultaneously showing her the love of Christ through their actions in their special ops methods and also her seeing first hand this persecution as it is without any bias from the COIL team. Through June, Telbat successfully portrays an unbeliever's point of view towards Christians and the turmoil they experience as the Spirit of God begins to soften their heart towards Him leading to their decision to accept His offer of salvation (June during and after their mission). This is a strategic plot structure on Telbat's part as I feel it balances out this spiritual warfare and shows it is not just a battle between Christians who are sold out for God against those who are sold out for satan. It is those unbelievers caught in the middle that the Great Commission exists and it is here that Telbat shows the power of the Gospel to salvation.

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and being back with the COIL team.

Strongly Recommended

World Building 4/5

Characterisation 4/5

Story 5/5

Spiritual Level 4/5

Enemy Spiritual Level 4/5

Average Rating 4.2/5

------------------------------------------------

Spiritually, based on this review and on the following reference booklet,

A Spiritual System for Rating Books by David Bergsland,

and that Dark Hearted contains elements of the criteria of what constitutes Christian Redemptive Fiction outlined in this booklet, I award D. I Telbat with

The Reality Calling Redemptive Speculative Fiction Award
727 reviews4 followers
July 15, 2018
Dark Hearted, Book Two of The COIL Series , continues with the suspense that began in Book One, Dark Liaison, A Christian Suspense Novel.

The Commission of International Laborers' mission is interrupted, and they are once again targeted by a dark enemy bent on hatred and racism. COIL founder, Corban Dowler, has developed commando-style teams who use non-lethal weapons to extract threatened servants of the Lord from danger zones worldwide. Corban now musters all of his resources to search for his abducted operatives, and hopes to stop the evil intentions of the one they know as Abaddon.

A biochemical weapon is about to change the world, and COIL may be the catalyst—unless their brazen courage and boldness in Christ can change the tide. Where death seems indestructible, Corban Dowler's operatives carry God's love and determination into the midst of the darkness.

Encrypted data finds its way to Corban from Karol Ngolsk in Romania, offering a glimmer of hope. Corban then leads the COIL team through a maze of intrigue and surprises, abductions and persecution, joy and sorrow, love and death—from the grim forests of Europe, to the blistering desert of Africa. Though killing is not COIL's way, the dark hearted one has no such qualms . . .
Profile Image for C.S. Wachter.
Author 10 books105 followers
July 20, 2023
Another fast-paced, suspenseful novel centered around COIL COIL founded by ex-operative, Corban Dowler, is made up of Christians, most with military backgrounds, who support Christian missionaries with supplies when needed and initiate rescue missions when necessary. Their faith is front and center and inspiring. I appreciate the strength it takes to face armed enemies with non-lethal weapons. But these operatives take the risks trusting in God to see them through or see them home to him.

Telbat’s writing is clean and exciting, though the realities of pain, suffering, and even death are woven into his stories. Those who do God’s work gain enemies who want the world to remain enslaved to darkness. Telbat recognizes there is spiritual darkness and evil as well as human evil acting in the world today. Much to think about. I look forward to reading more of this series and I recommend Dark Hearted.
Profile Image for Cindy .
699 reviews2 followers
January 6, 2022
Another great book! I love how the author stresses that we're to love our enemies and leave vengeance with the Lord. Reading these books has helped me to see my "enemies" differently. They've also helped me realize how important it is for us to use every opportunity the Lord gives us to tell others about the gospel. Plus these are just great books to read. They'll certainly keep you turning the pages!
Profile Image for Sandra Barker.
Author 22 books27 followers
July 4, 2023
This is the second in the series of the Coil books that I've read. I like these characters and I like what they are doing - and their dependence on God through it all. Reading the second book, I of course was familiar with most of the Coil operatives, although there were a few new or different ones. This is a good story and it keeps moving. If you're a Christian, you'll enjoy seeing this group following God's leading, seeking His power, and giving of themselves to help others and serve God.
Profile Image for Brenda.
195 reviews10 followers
September 5, 2020
Just as exciting as Book 1.

Lots of action and suspense as the COIL members and their families are targeted for extermination by a group that hates anything of God.

Though there are many references about God, the Bible and Christian beliefs, I think even non-Christians would enjoy this fast-paced suspense series.
123 reviews
December 21, 2020
Another page turner

Corban Dowleris a force to be reckoned with. Why? Well he's a wel trained ex CIA operative but.... he also has the hand of God on him as he rescues Christians. But there is trouble. COIL is being attacked and he hasa woma.n reporter to deal with. What could go wrong? Find out in another fast paced thriller by D.I. Telbat.
272 reviews1 follower
February 10, 2021
Great book worth reading

This book is well worth your time in reading. It is a great story and in the story you learn that somethings are worth dying for and somethings are worth living for. Some people for a few things will give some but some people will give all. Beautiful story.
295 reviews
March 8, 2021
So sad, so much truth

This series deals with a fictional group that helps endangered Christians around the world. It’s very well written and highlights some of the real problems in the world. I’m so blessed to be able to read this series and better understand the realities of persecution portrayed in the book. Excellent series!
724 reviews5 followers
October 25, 2018
Each one gets more daring!

Anyone and everyone should read these books. No sex, vulgar langage, just excitement. Sleep or read, sleep or read? Read will win out. In to COOK Book 3. Thank you again.
170 reviews2 followers
August 12, 2020
Another great series by this author

I have lost count of the books by David Telbat that have blessed and challenged my faith walk. The Christian commandos intrigue me, particularly using non-lethal weapons. Telbat is an author of profound faith.
40 reviews
March 21, 2021
On to Book #3

The character development is so beautifully presented that I can visualize each one. The plot evolves like reading a mystery, some predictable events then a twist or turn that takes you by surprise. Now I'm off to read Dark Rule!
199 reviews1 follower
December 25, 2019
Great

not disappointed with the book inthe least. Raps up the crisis and lays the floor plan for the next saving by grace.
Profile Image for Lifescore.
49 reviews
April 22, 2024
The series is picking up

This finally became the page turner that other of Telbat’s books are known for. It was a book I wanted to find out how it all ended.
Profile Image for Trinity Rose.
434 reviews17 followers
July 11, 2012
Dark Hearted, the second book in D.I. Telbat's COIL Series is just as fantastic as book one. I love the mystery and intrigue involved in this story.
We got to meet some new characters and revisit some old from book one. The descriptions of people and places are just fantastic. I love how they describe and talk about the guns.
There were only a few things in this book that I didn’t like, but hate to mention them because this book is so very interesting and full of suspense that I want everyone to read it. I feel I must say it though. To me I didn’t think it was believable that the group was working on a very important time involving case, but just because of a delay in the plans they went off to another country to help out some Christians for a few days.
The only other thing I didn’t believe was that the COIL group let a reporter come along and help out the group. She could have been a spy or gotten them in serious trouble. Also she had some experience, but not enough to let her into the group. That is only my way of thinking.
All in all I love this book. Dark Hearted is full of all kinds of tension and dangers and keeps you reading and wishing for more. Another wonderful book to read and read again. Highly recommended.



Thank you to the Author/Publicist for providing this book for review. 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
Profile Image for Melanie.
2,215 reviews598 followers
December 17, 2012
Review on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2ZZSF9Q...
Review on my blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...

4.5 stars.

Dark Hearted was a great suspenseful read! After reading Dark Liaison last year, I was looking forward to the next installment in the COIL series, and Dark Hearted did not disappoint!

The story had a lot of action-packed moments and held my attention. I found the characters great and, while there were some sad moments, it did make the book more believable.

Overall, I really enjoyed Dark Hearted and look forward to reading the next COIL novel, Dark Rule. If you like good, clean, suspenseful reads, then I recommend Dark Hearted - although you might want to read book one first. :)

*I received a complimentary eBook copy of this book for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Profile Image for Nadine.
13 reviews1 follower
June 30, 2014
Book two in a four part series.

I literally can't seem to put it down. I read the first book a few days ago. Full of suspense it leaves you on the edge of your seat. What I like about this series is that it leaves you thinking. I've been pondering the about the many missionaries, Christians and more who are always in danger because of their faith. Definitely a good book for those who love action novels. I'll be moving on to the third book next.
86 reviews1 follower
September 28, 2014
Another winner

This was my second read and it held my interest even more than the first time. I read it more slowly and more thoughtfully, enjoying the characters and their transparency. Their selflessness and love of the Lord truly inspired me once again. it caused me to rethink my own commitment level. Thanks , Mr. Telbat, for sharing your gift of writing with the world.
Profile Image for D.I. Telbat.
Author 55 books72 followers
April 26, 2013
This is Dark Hearted, Book Two in the COIL Series, following Dark Liaison, a Christian Suspense Novel, by D.I. Telbat. I am the author. Book Three in the COIL Series is called Dark Rule, and is available now, as well.
82 reviews
April 12, 2015
Fast paced Christian fiction

Believable yet fast action in a believable context. Each character has it's own personality and yet fits into the Christian group settings. This book is FUN and also a serious, real message for believer and nonbelievers.
Profile Image for Nilda.
2 reviews1 follower
August 2, 2012
Enjoyed reading this book, full of action & suspense
41 reviews2 followers
Read
April 4, 2018
Good Series but this one was a little slow for me. I hear that the 3rd book is easier read and more enjoyable but still a good read.
410 reviews6 followers
February 22, 2019
Another great book by D.I. Telbat

Interesting and keeps you involved. Very good series so far. Can't wait to start book number 3. Have read other books by this author.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews

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