Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Threshold of Darkness

Rate this book

154 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2026

Loading...
Loading...

About the author

Christen Ballard

3 books3 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
8 (61%)
4 stars
5 (38%)
3 stars
0 (0%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
Profile Image for elegancija.
17 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 27, 2026
I like how supernatural and scary it was. Miriam's journal was already reaching me with its intensity, but the prologue, neat and quick-paced, immediately hooked me in. If I were in this world, I don't know what would happen to me. I'm an atheist (who got interested in the author's "Christian supernatural fiction" just because it was "supernatural"), but if I had the Darkness surrounding me like that, I'd either be doomed or seek the light like Naomi, immediately turning religious once I'm back.

Miriam's journal did a great job confusing me. I really suspected Elliot might not be a Light-bringer but a Darkness-shroud, or that Naomi would eventually become the Darkness's puppet. Also, poor Kerrigan (or not, 'cuz he seemed very willing!).

While the prologue's pace was nice, slamming me right into the story, at other parts, the action slowed down. Naomi's fight was epic and necessary (get to the Light, girl), but a bit too long. I really like the concept of the Door. It's creepy that it could randomly appear in some places and then just disappear. I would've loved to read more about it alongside the Darkness. So, I really enjoyed the epilogue with Kerrigan, as I had a chance to see a short scene of the Door again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Debra Ramos.
99 reviews4 followers
May 1, 2026
This story delivers a steady stream of intrigue, with something new unfolding every few chapters to keep the momentum strong and the tension high. I was immediately drawn into the supernatural elements, and the way the author brings unseen spiritual battles to life felt both compelling and thought-provoking.

What stood out most to me, though, was how it weaves a powerful message of faith into such an engaging, atmospheric, supernatural narrative. Through moments of darkness and danger, the story beautifully highlights God’s light, mercy, and the promise of redemption. Reminding us that no one is beyond saving. The inclusion of Bible verses throughout added an extra layer of depth and meaning.

The time-split narrative was handled seamlessly, transitioning between timelines without ever feeling confusing or disjointed.

I’m already looking forward to book two and seeing where the Light leads next

Thank you to the author for the eARC, this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Anne Cleo.
14 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 2, 2026
Title: Threshold of darkness
Author: Christen Ballard
Format: eARC
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐️/5
Thank you to Christen Ballard for providing me with a Free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
When William, Naomi’s boyfriend, suddenly disappears through a mysterious door, Naomi is faced with a battle between light and the dark. The question is which one will she choose? And can the light really save her?
This book was incredible. It is not often you see a Christian book that has worldly issues in it, and doesn’t shy away. In this book they are handled with grace and compassion. This is a Christian thriller, and it definitely has thrilling elements. We are left with questions at the end that makes me excited to read the next book!
This book reminded me a lot of J.B Simmons, and his fantasy writing style.
I absolutely loved the attention to detail this book had. If it described a room, I was suddenly in that room. Fantastic writing.
I’d recommend this do anyone 12+ looking for a Christian thriller. Or anyone is a fan of J.B Simmons.
Profile Image for MikeLikesBooks.
820 reviews86 followers
May 2, 2026
If you are into Christian Fiction or want to try getting into the genre, this paranormal thriller is a great book to dive into.

The only thing that can battle darkness is light. Naomi finds this out after leaving everything she held dear to live with her boyfriend, William. It disappears through a dark portal and that’s when the darkness starts taking over. A young officer, Elliott, comes to investigate and finds himself in the battle as well but because he is armored in light he recognizes how serious everything is.

It truly had me at the edge of my seat. If you are a believer, this will strengthen your resolve to always embrace the light and He who is giver of light.

I want to thank the author for an early advanced copy of her debut novel. My review is voluntary.
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 2, 2026
I got a free ARC copy of the book today. Started reading it and never got up until I finished. Every couple of chapters something interesting and new came up that kept the story exciting. It would have been a great read with no message, but the best part was that the book uses a very exciting story to tell the truth of Gods light and how his mercy can save us from darkness and sin no matter what. The book backs up the message with Bible verses throughout.
Profile Image for Ann's Reading Corner.
219 reviews23 followers
Read
March 27, 2026
I was very pulled into the supernatural element of this story immediately. It kept me turning the pages and does a good job at bringing to light the invisible forces that are at war over us every day that we never realize.
This is a time split novel and those I'm quite picky about. She switched seamlessly between timelines though without confusion. I look forward to book 2 and where the Light will take the story!
21 reviews
Review of advance copy
April 8, 2026
ADVANCED READER COPY review:

Threshold of Darkness was a book I was NOT prepared to dive into! From page 1, this book pulls you in and refuses to let you go until the last page! Even then, you're left hanging off of the cliff!

The personification and imagery used throughout this Christian fiction was not only beautifully done, but also, wonderfully woven through the story! It's not what you will expect and will keep you enthralled from beginning to end!
Profile Image for Jamie  Lynn DaVault.
18 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 17, 2026
Advanced copy reader, freely giving my review.

Wow! This story had me pulled in from the start. A battle of good vs evil, darkness vs the Light. Clean, Christian supernatural thriller that takes you through what the dark side can do to your mind, body and soul and what the Light and Faith in that Light can bring you through.
Profile Image for Alana.
100 reviews5 followers
April 22, 2026
4.5 rating. I would highly suggest you prepare yourself for the darkness within these pages. It is heavy on scripture, however it is appropriately placed. This book felt like a warning. A warning to remain in the light. A reminder to choose the light. A tale of fighting against the evil that begs to drag you down. This paranormal thriller should be handled with care, and respect.
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 30, 2026
Full of suspense and intrigue, I was unable to put the book down! Christen does a wonderful job of drawing you into Naomi's story—the darkness and heartbreak that surround her—while at the same time pointing to the sufficiency of Christ and reminding us that He never leaves. I cannot wait until the second book is released and eagerly await the next chapter of the story!
Profile Image for Lunahippyreads.
3 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 8, 2026
LOVED this book I ended up reading the prologue out loud to my husband, and he also liked it so much that I ended up reading the whole thing out loud to him as well. If you love supernatural plus a mystery to solve you will love this!! Also this would be sooo good as a movie!!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews