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63 Hours In Hell

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Experience the power of Christ’s resurrection in a way you never imagined.
On their journey to Jesus’s crucifixion, Hannah and her brother perish in a tragic accident, plunging into the enigmatic afterlife of Paradise. Jesus sends them, along with the ‘good thief,’ Dismas, and a mysterious angel, on a perilous quest to retrieve scattered fragments of the key to Hell.

This ragtag team races through the epochs of biblical history, trying to outwit Lucifer's forces at every turn. Can they restore the key in 63 hours? Or will Lucifer destroy them all?


Endorsements

Susan Davis draws the reader into a dark world of demons, sinners, and unlikely saints in this unique tale of what may have happened between the crucifixion and Jesus’ ascension into Heaven. Rich in imagery, drama, and action, 63 Hours in Hell is a journey fraught with twists and turns as the characters embark on an unprecedented quest that captivates from beginning to end.

—Susan Miura, author of the award-winning Healer series and Signs in the Dark.



Enthralled! That’s how you’ll feel as you read the pages of 63 Hours in Hell. Susan L Davis masterfully weaves biblical characters and historical settings into a tale so gripping, you’ll let your to-do list gather dust just to see what’s next. More than just a story, it’s a journey of faith, love, and redemption. Like a rich cup of coffee, it lingers long after the last page.

—Robyn Dykstra, national Christian speaker and author of the bestseller, The Widow Wore Pink



Gripping from the very first page, 63 Hours in Hell pulled me into Davis’s descriptive depiction of the spiritual world. Woven with scripture and Biblical references, the narrative takes the reader on a fascinating journey, not holding back on Satan’s wickedness or Christ’s miraculous power, Davis makes the spiritual world come to life, reminding us the devil is alive and active, but so is our Great God. After reading it, I have a renewed appreciation for my faith. I’m so glad I’m on team Jesus.

—Jenna Brooke Carlson, author of Falling Flat



Susan L. Davis has written a daring story of Jesus’ descent into Hell and his triumphant return, blending meticulous research with accessible storytelling. The author courageously challenges traditional perspectives, inviting readers to reconsider their understanding of this theological mystery from a unique perspective. This intriguing exploration pushes the boundaries of conventional discourse, leaving readers with a renewed appreciation for the depths of divine sacrifice and great love.
—Susan Pettit, S. Pettit Gallery, Lewis-Clark Valley, WA
Artist and Author of The Rose Trilogy Enjoy Roses Every Day

The biblical narrative has been preserved for us in the form of story, inviting us to use our imaginations, to seek to understand its truths from the inside out. Susan L. Davis’s 63 Hours in Hell is a genre-bending, far-reaching exploration, leading us in this use of our sacred imaginations, taking us on a quest to more profoundly comprehend the gift of redemption, now and in the age to come.
— David J. Marsh, author of the award-winning novels The Confessions of Adam and Chronicle of the Clan of Noah

Step into an unforgettable journey where faith collides with darkness, and redemption battles against the forces of evil.

350 pages, Paperback

Published March 4, 2025

10 people are currently reading
17 people want to read

About the author

Susan L. Davis

1 book60 followers
Award-winning,Christian fantasy author Susan L. Davis is an author, speaker, and blogger whose journey from skepticism to faith began unexpectedly at a funeral. She is passionate about helping others grow in bold, simple faith and discover their God-given destiny.

Her debut novel, 63 Hours in Hell, reimagines the three days Jesus spent in hell, offering readers an epic adventure and a fresh perspective on biblical events. Fans of Christian fantasy and biblical fiction will find this story both inspiring and thought-provoking.

Susan lives in the western suburbs of Chicago with her husband of 30 years, their two children, and a mischievous, wolf-like dog who provides plenty of creative inspiration.

Visit her at SusanLDavis.com for free prayer and biblical resources,

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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Profile Image for JJ.
51 reviews1 follower
March 1, 2025
*I received an ARC of this book*

First, this is not something I would have typically picked up on my own, as I am not personally very religious. So, I was unsure how much I would enjoy or even understand the book, as my relationship with religion is complicated. That being said, I believe it’s a testament to the book and story that someone like me greatly enjoyed the book! Even if you may not be very religious or struggle with it, this book is a classic story of Good versus Evil that anyone can enjoy and get lost in.

The writing is engaging and hooks you in. The cast of characters, while it may seem like a lot, are distinct, my personal favorite being Hannah, who is one of the main characters of the book. I loved her and her strengths even if she doubted herself. The themes of this book are simple but impactful: hope, faith, and forgiveness. The main characters all struggle with these themes and what they mean to each of them, which is something anyone can connect with.

Overall, I had fun with this book, and I thought it was funny. The ending made me cry because I'm a sucker and I enjoyed all the directions the characters took. I also read this book while listening to EPIC: The Musical, which was fitting in some areas. HIGHLY recommend “Would You Fall In Love with Me Again” from EPIC for the last chapter of the book.
Profile Image for Janel Crowe.
68 reviews9 followers
June 4, 2025
"63 Hours in Hell" is a Christian fantasy novel that delves into the enigma surrounding Jesus' journey into hell after his crucifixion and before his resurrection. The narrative showcases spiritual conflicts and flawed characters who embark on a mission to seek healing and redemption, intertwining significant moments from the Old Testament with Jesus' purpose.

Definitely fictional, but the tale stays firmly anchored in biblical teachings, appealing to readers drawn to themes of spiritual struggle rather than magical elements. Inspired by the belief that Jesus ventured into hell during the three days following his death, this story encourages reflection on biblical concepts.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
Author 8 books8 followers
September 4, 2025
Right off the bat, what I LOVE about this book is the word of God for the first epigraph of the Prologue. Not a quote about the Bible or about Jesus, but a quote OF the Bible and a prophesy OF Jesus!!!

The writing is direct and clear. We jump right into the problem of sin. And Eve's question resounds in my heart: "If a place is named Paradise, why would God allow evil to enter?" Sounds alike like my daily complaint of, "If God loves me, why doesn't He help me out of this pain?!" and every other unfounded doubt that pops up.

And then -- AND THEN -- Davis really flips the cards and we are shot forward thousands of years to the perspective of another young bride at the time Jesus is crucified!

The pages are full of Nephilim, living creatures with their heavenly chariot, and spiritual beings as we follow one of the criminals crucified beside Jesus, two siblings, and a fallen angel as they embark on a wild ride through the Old Testament!

While reading, I would find myself thinking about heaven during such mundane times, as if my spirit continues to meditate on the godly truths -- the existence of heaven and the glory that awaits!

ONE MORE NOTE: This book will get you to THINK -- and consider God's grace and saving power newly. The way Davis weaves the words of God and historical events into narrative is riveting. More than that, the words on these pages are COMPELLING. Did everything happen the way Davis explains it? Maybe not -- but maybe so. In any case, the spirit of redemption is there (Jesus' blood provided for as the replacement of our sinful selves), unmerited grace (reward that cannot be earned), faith that sets the sinner free (belief in Jesus' atoning sacrifice that fully satisfies the law on my behalf).

One thing is very clear by the end: there is one way to heaven and that is through the unblemished, sin-free body of Jesus Christ.

The Shack meets Percy Jackson... The Christmas Carol meets Screwtape Letters!

If you love a historical novel AND want a story that will deepen your conviction in God's salvation plan, make sure you grab "63 Hours in Hell"!
Profile Image for Jayne.
41 reviews1 follower
April 25, 2025
A friend from my dog park days wrote this book! Her passion for God’s enduring love shows through. She mixes fantasy and hope with archeology and the Bible.
467 reviews33 followers
July 22, 2025
In 63 Hours in Hell, Susan L. Davis offers readers a thought-provoking and spiritually immersive journey that dares to reimagine one of Christianity’s most mysterious periods — the time between Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection. This isn’t just a retelling; it’s a bold theological exploration wrapped in an action-packed, emotionally resonant adventure.

The story follows siblings Hannah and her brother, who, after a sudden fatal accident, find themselves not in grief’s aftermath but in the very heart of Paradise. There, they are summoned by none other than Jesus Himself for an urgent mission: to recover the broken fragments of a sacred key that opens the gates of Hell. Accompanied by Dismas — the penitent thief crucified beside Christ — and a mysterious angelic guide, their quest unfolds across biblical landscapes and epochs, colliding head-on with the cunning forces of Lucifer. The stakes couldn’t be higher: they have 63 hours to complete their task, or risk letting evil prevail. Davis excels at combining spiritual themes with a rich, imaginative narrative that takes creative liberties without losing reverence. Her portrayal of time travel through sacred history is nothing short of mesmerizing. One moment the reader is swept into a celestial chariot ride; the next, they’re gripped by the chilling presence of demonic forces amidst childbirth scenes that evoke deep dread and empathy. The fusion of biblical detail with speculative fiction results in a storyline that feels both grounded and fantastical, giving the reader fresh eyes through which to view timeless truths.

What sets this novel apart is Davis’s commitment to redefining traditional gender roles within biblical storytelling. Hannah, the lead protagonist, is not a passive observer but a fierce and faithful warrior in a spiritual battle. By placing a young woman at the forefront of this epic struggle, Davis challenges longstanding narratives and offers a more inclusive representation of strength and divine purpose. Hannah’s courage, heart, and resilience add emotional depth to the high-stakes drama of the tale.

Another remarkable element of the novel is its theological ambition. Davis explores Christ’s descent into Hell — a rarely dramatized event — and invites readers to engage with this mystery not just intellectually, but imaginatively. Her depiction of Jesus is both human and divine, powerful yet full of compassion. Rather than offering rigid doctrinal conclusions, Davis creates space for readers to contemplate the mystery of redemption from a fresh, personal angle. Davis’s writing is fluid and cinematic, with vivid descriptions that bring heavenly realms and hellish battlegrounds to life. Her prose balances accessibility with lyrical weight, making profound spiritual concepts digestible without oversimplifying them. Prayer, divine love, spiritual warfare, and redemption are central themes, presented with authenticity and creative fervor.

In 63 Hours in Hell, Susan L. Davis crafts a genre-defying spiritual adventure that is as emotionally stirring as it is intellectually stimulating. It’s a story that reveres Scripture, honors faith, and dares to imagine what lies beyond the pages of the Bible — not to rewrite it, but to experience it more fully. This is a must-read for those drawn to Christian fiction that challenges norms, celebrates imagination, and deepens understanding of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice.
1,901 reviews
April 11, 2025
If you’re a fan of Fantasy or Speculative Fiction with a Biblical twist, 63 Hours in Hell by Susan L. Davis might be right up your alley. This imaginative novel dives deep into a spiritual realm, weaving together themes of good versus evil, redemption, and courage.

The story follows a unique and unlikely team: Jesus Himself, a pair of siblings, the “good” thief from the crucifixion, and an angel. Their mission? To track down the regiments of the key to hell. As they journey through layers of Biblical history, they’re met with resistance from none other than Lucifer and his dark forces, bent on stopping them at every turn.

One of the strongest aspects of Davis’s writing is her vivid descriptions and well-developed characters. The pacing is solid, the situations are intense, and there’s a certain drive to the narrative that keeps you flipping pages to see what happens next.

That said, while I could appreciate the creativity and skill behind the story, speculative fantasy isn’t quite my preferred style for Biblical fiction. I lean more toward grounded, historical retellings or character-driven narratives based more directly on Scripture.

Still, 63 Hours in Hell is a fascinating journey for readers who enjoy imaginative spiritual warfare, adventure, and allegorical storytelling. If Fantasy/Speculative Fiction is your genre, this book is worth checking out.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Chithu.
53 reviews
January 31, 2026
One of the most refreshing aspects of "63 Hours in Hell" is Susan L. Davis's decision to place Hannah, a young woman, at the center of this epic spiritual battle. Too often, biblical fiction relegates women to supporting roles, but Hannah is a fierce, faithful warrior whose courage and resilience drive the narrative forward. Her journey through Paradise and her encounters with both angelic and demonic forces showcase strength that transcends physical power, it's spiritual fortitude born of faith.

Davis doesn't just add a female character for diversity's sake; she reimagines what biblical storytelling can be when women are given equal space in narratives of divine purpose. The relationship between Hannah and her brother adds emotional depth, while her interactions with Dismas and their angelic guide reveal different facets of her character.

Beyond the groundbreaking representation, the book itself is a thrilling adventure filled with unexpected twists, rich imagery, and moments of genuine spiritual insight. Davis has written a story that both honors traditional faith and pushes boundaries, creating space for readers who've longed to see themselves reflected in sacred narratives.
1 review
March 16, 2025
Author Susan L Davis honors Biblical history, the reader’s intellect, and the foundations of our faith as she takes us on imaginative and creative adventures. She set up her first time travel sequence in a way that sucked me right into the black hole along with the flaming chariot. Chapters later I felt horrifying fear as midwives delivered babies among hell hounds and demons.
Her storytelling weaves an intricate tapestry of colorfully wild imagination blended with faith, the power of prayer, and devotion to God. I also appreciated her use of a woman as the main character. With so many Bible stories depicting women as not being strong, she chooses a woman to lead the quest against Lucifer. I loved it!
Two quotes in the book struck me. An evil character was very envious of another. “I’ll hold on to my bitterness and let it grow into something stunning--even weeds fester into flowers.” And another paraphrasing a Psalm, “Humans don’t understand the power of life and death is in the tongue. You are snared by the words of your mouth.” Seems to me Davis has a wonderful way with words.
Profile Image for Sneha.
344 reviews33 followers
July 21, 2025
Okay, so this book had me hooked from page one. 63 Hours in Hell is what happens when a faith-filled journey meets a full-blown spiritual action movie.

Two siblings die (yeah, it starts off intense), land in Paradise, and next thing you know, they’re teaming up with an angel and the “good thief” Dismas to stop Lucifer himself. No big deal, right?

The mission? Collect the shattered pieces of a key to Hell before the devil snatches them up. And they’ve only got 63 hours to do it. Talk about pressure. The story jumps through biblical history like a time-travel adventure, mixing real scripture with bold imagination. It’s a wild ride through heaven, hell, and everything in between.

What I loved most? It’s not just about fighting demons and saving souls, it’s about faith, second chances, and what love really means when things get really dark. The characters actually grow, struggle, and face their pasts, all while dodging Lucifer’s chaos.

Susan L. Davis doesn’t hold back. She dives deep into spiritual warfare, brings biblical moments to life, and makes you see the resurrection in a whole new light.
Profile Image for Book  Island.
228 reviews54 followers
October 5, 2025
Within minutes of starting, I sensed this was no ordinary faith-based novel. 63 Hours in Hell dares to explore the mysterious span between the cross and the resurrection, turning a familiar belief into an extraordinary spiritual journey. Susan L. Davis builds her story around Hannah and her brother, and the urgency behind the premise kept me completely absorbed.

What sets this book apart is its blend of biblical insight and vivid imagination. Davis uses Scripture as the foundation of her storytelling, weaving prophecy, history, and faith into a seamless narrative that feels both reverent and bold. The battle between darkness and divine protection is intense, portrayed with raw honesty and conviction.

Hannah’s courage and faith bring depth to the tale. She’s not a passive believer but an active force in God’s redemptive plan. Through her journey, Davis invites readers to see familiar stories with fresh eyes.

By the end, I felt spiritually uplifted and deeply grateful. This is imaginative Christian fiction that inspires reflection, strengthens faith, and reminds us of the power of redemption.
85 reviews1 follower
February 1, 2026
I picked up "63 Hours in Hell" expecting a typical Christian novel, but what I got was so much more. Davis has created a genre-bending masterpiece that combines elements of spiritual warfare, time travel, and biblical drama into something completely original.

The central quest, recovering pieces of a mystical key while racing against a 63-hour deadline, provides constant momentum that kept me turning pages late into the night. What impressed me most was how Davis handles the mystery of Christ's descent into Hell, a topic rarely explored in fiction. She approaches it with both reverence and creative freedom, inviting readers to engage their imaginations while remaining anchored in scriptural truth.

The vivid descriptions transport you to both heavenly realms and hellish battlegrounds with cinematic clarity. The inclusion of biblical figures like Dismas alongside original characters creates a bridge between ancient history and contemporary storytelling. This book challenged me to think differently about redemption, grace, and the cosmic battle between good and evil. It's not just entertainment, it's a meditation on faith wrapped in an adventure story.
Profile Image for Deana Dick.
3,096 reviews134 followers
April 4, 2025
Creative story that plunges readers into what it may have been like after Jesus died and before He rose again. The author does do a good job of following scripture with a little added fiction that keeps readers intrigued. The scene with Jesus on the cross is an eye opener. Those words, “It is finished,” will forever be in my heart. He did it all for us. Every time I read how they pierced His side I cry. Do you know the pain He went through for each of us?

Dismas joins Hannah and her brother on a journey that will share a mission that brings adventure. The details in the story are vivid and takes me right there in the middle of danger. Hannah and Benjamin are stunned when they realize where they are. After they get over the shock, they understand that they will have to work with someone named Dismas. The author with vivid words helped me feel the extreme heat they were feeling. Can they find the key or be stuck in this unbearable place forever?

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit . The review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,798 reviews49 followers
April 7, 2025
Christian Fantasy isn't a genre that I normally read. I LOVED the synopsis of this book and I was intrigued to read it. 63 Hours in Hell by Susan L Davis is the most recent Christian Fantasy book that I have read.

I will admit that the book started a little slow for me. The 2 main characters in this book are Hannah and her brother. They die in a tragic and are sent to "Hell" to earn their way to the Gates of Heaven. The author compares their journey in Hell to the 3 days of Jesus Crucifixion and Resurrection. I really LOVE that the Author weaves Scripture and Biblical stories with Fiction. Hannah and her brother certainly had a journey to be had and the reader will see that there is some in depth learning to be had. The book is one that shows Redemption, Forgiveness and Faith. The storyline also has demons and fiction weaved into. I can say that I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to those who enjoy Fantasy and Fiction with Faith weaved in. GOOD BOOK!
6,171 reviews
March 12, 2025
63 Hours In Hell is a fascinating debut from Susan L Davis. I thought the plot was an unique one with the light vs darkness. It was interesting seeing the author's vision of the spiritual world. I liked that there were lessons to learn within the pages: being redeemed, having hope, power of forgiveness, and embracing faith.


I am going to give 63 Hours In Hell four and a half stars. I believe fans of clean Fantasy and Speculative Fiction will not want to miss out reading it. It is definitely worth a read. I would be interested in seeing what other books Susan L Davis has in the works for future publication.


I received a paperback copy of Susan L Davis' 63 Hours In Hell from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Profile Image for Debbie.
2,575 reviews4 followers
April 2, 2025
This is the first page of the book, and it caught my interest from the beginning and kept me turning the pages to the end. I am not a fan of fantasy novels, but I did enjoy "63 Hours In Hell" by Susan L. Davis. I enjoyed Reading about the biblical characters that are included in this novel, but I must warn other readers that this is definitely fiction and if you want pure Biblical truth, you probably don't want to read this book. There is lots of scenes with scenes with demons. My favorite character in the book is Hannah, even though there are lots of characters. If you want a fictional and fantasy and Speculative read on what Jesus might have gone through when He died and before He rose, then then this book is a great pick for you!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

1 review
March 10, 2025
Susan L. Davis does a great job of combining history, mythology and Biblical stories to create a fascinating fictional universe. She takes the reader into a journey of the time between the death of Jesus and His resurrection, where a handful of ragtag characters team up to assist Jesus in finding the pieces of hell's key.
The most enjoyable part was when the characters were thrust into the time of Noah during the flood, also her interesting depiction of what transpired in Sodom and Gomorrah.
I would not take this book as Biblical. Susan addresses a lot of questionable material in a section at back of the book. There are a lot of heavy themes and material, so I wouldn't suggest it for young Christians, those seeking the truth or children.
Profile Image for Susan Miura.
Author 11 books38 followers
April 10, 2025
The timeless, raging battle between good and evil comes alive in this book, as author Susan Davis offers a unique perspective on how Jesus spent the three days between Good Friday and his resurrection. Demons and angels practically jump off the pages through the author’s narrative and rich imagery. As the main characters race time to find the fragments of the key to hell, they take the reader on a journey through some of the Bible’s key moments and face unimaginable challenges as the devil tries to thwart their mission. Faith, fear, and redemption are woven throughout this gripping tale, with bits of occasional humor to break the tension. It is a beautiful reminder that God’s supreme power and love will always prevail.
Profile Image for Lora Avery.
Author 3 books2 followers
March 5, 2025
Thought-provoking and riveting mixture of fantasy and Bible

Like the "Left Behind" series, "63 Hours in Hell" leads a person to think about the future and our eternal destiny, as well as inspiring gratitude for what our Lord Jesus did for us when He redeemed us. This excellently written fictional work reminds us that God's good, unthwartable plans go beyond what we can imagine, and He is with us every step of the way. Even when it seems all is lost.

P.S.: do NOT skip the Prelude! It's fabulous!
Profile Image for Aimee Niblack.
Author 2 books
March 10, 2025
I had never really thought about the time between when Jesus died and rose again, but this book had me captivated about what could have happened. I loved how the author wove in what did happen in Scripture to what could have happened. Ultimately, it was a great reminder that Satan is defeated and will never win, just as you can see throughout history. This book had me kept me reading "just one more chapter!" Such a great story!
35 reviews1 follower
October 20, 2025
This author did a lot of research. I recently read part of Ezekiel and I was surprised when part of that showed up in the story. There are many references to Bible stories that I know. It was definitely a thought provoking story in a different sort of way! I was interested to know how it would all tie together and in my humble opinion, Susan did a good job of weaving it together. My imagination was stretched! I am always interested to experience and digest ideas of other people.
16.7k reviews158 followers
June 2, 2025
A really wonderful read about what life in Hell would be like. A unusual read about what could happen if jesus ended in hell
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a very interesting read
Profile Image for Megan.
280 reviews6 followers
May 3, 2025
I found the premise of this novel very interesting, and I loved all the Bible stories that the characters traveled through. Including the theif of the cross added a great little twist. I think it is VERY important to remember that this is fiction as there is quite a bit that were not Biblical truths but very much speculation. I wouldn't recommend it to younger readers or new believers for that reason. That being said, I enjoyed the read and think Susan L. Davis is a creative and talented author. I will watch for others by her. Just check God's Word, if you are curious about His truth in all the stories
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews

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