Bayou Refuge: A Christian Mystery Novel

by Joshua Powell

After nearly a decade, Charles, a small-town Louisiana pastor, finds himself back at Bayou Refuge, an old church campground and conference center that’s been closed for years. He’s been invited to lead a special event for people who are curious about what it means to know God. Even though he’s surrounded by familiar faces, Charles begins to realize that everything is not as it seems. Soon it becomes clear that the conversations that Charles will have with these people about God may be the final conversation of their lives. As Charles wrestles with the seriousness of this responsibility, he must also consider what it means to trust God to the very end.

Bayou Refuge is an inspirational mystery that delves into what it truly means to know and trust God, the importance of overcoming past hurts, and the power of a Godly family.



Dr. Joshua Powell has written two other books. One is a collection of holiday plays and the other is a discipleship book. However, he's long had a passion for writing fiction and hopes that Bayou Refuge engages and inspires readers.

236 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 15, 2024

About the author

Joshua Powell is a pastor, former adjunct professor and PhD graduate from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He enjoys the outdoors, playing board games with his family and reading. Writing has always been an important part of his life both as a way to relieve stress and to help people discover a walk with the Lord or to grow in their relationship with God.

Reviews

[Kalyn Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh my heart

So many wonderful stories weaved together in a huge mystery! Life itself is a mystery and only God has the key to solve it!

[Ms. E aka Ms. ECharm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a right on time

I am inspired and overjoyed about this book. It is a faith based fictional novel that makes you think…. What if?
I cried and prayed over the fictional characters (don’t judge me😂🤦🏾‍♀️)

This story is about having a relationship with the God that gives another chance. It ask real life questions and reveal unsettling truths.

Get ready to be asked the question. Will you trust him? Whatever your answer will be. Get your tissues out and get ready to be restored in Jesus Christ.

[Rebecca C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bayou Refuge by Joshua Powell is a compelling Christian mystery that masterfully intertwines suspense with profound spiritual themes. Set against the evocative backdrop of a Louisiana bayou, the novel follows Pastor Charles as he returns to a once-familiar campground, only to find it shrouded in mystery and spiritual significance. The narrative delves deep into themes of faith, redemption, and the transformative power of divine encounters.

[Gracie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engaging and Faith-Filled
Bayou Refuge is a beautifully written Christian novel with outstanding character development and a compelling plot. I connected deeply with the journey the characters were on, and they felt real and relatable throughout the story. Their growth was both emotional and meaningful. I especially appreciated how the Christian themes of faith, redemption, and forgiveness were woven in naturally without feeling forced. This book truly resonated with me, and I found myself reflecting long after I finished it. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys well-crafted, faith-based fiction.

[Lauren Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bayou Refuge blends mystery and faith beautifully as Pastor Charles returns to a closed Louisiana camp to lead what may become life-changing and final conversations about God. Dr. Joshua Powell crafts a touching story about trust, redemption, and the courage to face our past. Short, engaging, and deeply inspiring, highly recommended!

[Sheila Bacon · Rating 5 out of 5]

one of the best I’ve read recently

I couldn’t put the book down. It brought renewal in my soul and reminded me that God gives us so many chances even until the end. Yes, God works in mysterious ways and I couldn’t help but wonder if this could actually happen. Our God is so good.

[Daniel Carroll · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome

I thought I had this book figured out by chapter 3, Boy was I wrong!
The story is excellent, and the characters are well defined. It definitely teaches The way to salvation. I highly recommend this book
I'll give it 10 out of 5 stars

[Andy Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good read about the importance of trusting in God.

[Laura Brewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not your usual storyline

This book was hard to put down. It was also a real eye opener reminding you that you just dont know and to make sure you are right with Christ.

[vonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

Very happy to see that there are still good Christian books to read, I hope whoever reads this book will give their heart to Jesus.

[Susie Griffin · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book had good intentions but it couldn't keep my interest.