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COIL Legacy #1
Distant Contact
Distant Contact is a recipient of the Reality Calling Redemptive Fiction Award.In DISTANT CONTACT, Book One in The COIL Legacy Series by D.I. Telbat, we find that a distant shadow hovers over the Caspertein family. Greed and Muslim extremism threaten to erase America's beloved family as killers rise to avenge an accidental death.There may be no hope for family reconciliation before it's too late. Wynter Caspertein is a primary target of a sword-wielding assassin. Rudy Caspertein is presumed dead but struggles to survive in the Arctic. In the midst of Middle East terror, the estranged brother emerges. Titus Caspertein scoffs at the danger and flies to the aid of his sister, along with his Russian companion, Oleg. The two undercover COIL agents juggle the needs of persecuted Christians with the Iranian threat that spans from the Ozarks of Arkansas to the deserts of Syria.Join D.I. Telbat as he draws us into a COIL saga of faith and conflict, plots of Christian persecution, and the perseverance of men and women who trust Jesus Christ for strength and final victory. DISTANT CONTACT follows the Prequel, Distant Boundary.Bonuses a map, a note from the author, character sketch, Endnotes featuring Vision Beyond Borders Refugee Ministry, and a Bonus Chapter from the next book in the series, Distant Front. Cover design is by Streetlight Graphics. Distant Contact is also included in The COIL Legacy Collection, three page-turning novels in one volume.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 17, 2016
163 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
D.I. Telbat
55 books74 followersI'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.]
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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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 27, 2016
Distant Contact was a fine read, but I didn't love it as much as I did the original COIL books (maybe because of the reading mood I was in or something.)
I liked that several characters from previous COIL books were in Distant Contact, but I was a little confused because of how many characters there were (I just had a hard time following everything).
Still, it was a good story with some suspenseful scenes. If you've read the COIL books and liked them, I think you'll also enjoy Distant Contact. I liked it!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own*
I liked that several characters from previous COIL books were in Distant Contact, but I was a little confused because of how many characters there were (I just had a hard time following everything).
Still, it was a good story with some suspenseful scenes. If you've read the COIL books and liked them, I think you'll also enjoy Distant Contact. I liked it!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own*
December 14, 2021
I love Telbat's books, and this one didn't let me down! He shows what being a Christian means. Plus, the story will keep you reading way past your bedtime. I hope to read all of their books eventually!
June 6, 2017
The prequel to this new series, Distant Boundary, was seen as a worthy successor to the original COIL series, and a great entre (novella) to this new Legacy series. What a main course this next novel has been!
I have thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It has been a wise choice on Telbat's part to continue this series with the character of Titus Caspertein. It has breathed a fresh air into the series and allowed it to be taken to the next level. That is not to say that the first series was getting stale or boring; far from it. I wondered why Telbat has done this. Why could he not just do this with one of the other COIL agents from that series? We were already endeared to them so that would have engaged us to this new series. From what I can see, there is a parallel to the apostle Paul here. Just as God took an enemy of God and made him one of His most valued and successful ambassadors for Christ and His mission on earth, so too has Telbat done the same with Titus Casperstein. Is the message here that God can do the same today to those who are actively against Him and turn them towards Him? You bet it is, and He can and He does do this and will always do so. He did this with all those who are followers of Jesus to this day. I pray that any reader who does not know Christ will identify themselves in Titus and see what God can do when they realise their need for Him. Just as Titus did. Like him and Oleg, and the other characters who have become Christian through the witness to them from other COIL agents, they all came to the end of their rebellion and sinful lives, realising its futility and emptiness, that it needed to be filled with something sustaining and satisfying. And when that happened, they found the only solution was Jesus Christ, Artos Zoes (the Bread of Life, John 6:48-51) and Living Water (John 7:38).
I loved Telbat's further development of Titus' character in this novel. Seeing him grow more into a disciple of Christ and show more of Christ's character is one of the elements of this series that I find uplifting and satisfying. I guess the best example that showcases this is when he asked God how he should respond to Rashid's infiltration into his house and family. Pre-conversion, Titus would have followed his own plan of action and confronted Rashid in the way his reputation had dictated over the past two decades. But this time, he found peace, reassurance and a calm resolve when he realised how Jesus would have handled this. I pray that any reader, Christian or not, would receive the message here and apply it to their lives. The Christian to see that they need to die to self and be obedient to Christ and His ways. The non-believer to see that there is a better way to deal with life's tribulation other than what they only know. This better way leads to restoration and relationship. I know that every reader of this novel will presume that Rashid will accept Jesus in the next novel. Everything is leading to this. What joyous expectation and anticipation for the next novel! Bring it on, David Telbat! And when he does, we will see it is because the light of Christ shone through Titus. Absent was there of judgement, criticism, arrogance, deceit, from Titus towards Rashid, just brotherly love, acceptance and a sense of family and belonging. All the things that Rashid never had but attracted him like a moth to a flame. It was this witness that nullified his greed, selfishness, murderous intent and covetousness of the priceless artefact but led him to see in Titus something that he so desperately desires.
I must confess that I was tense and fearful of every account of Rudy's survival against one of the harshest environments on earth. This was tempered by the inclusion of one of my favourite breeds of dogs, the St Bernard and Rudy's faith. A St Bernard is living with us at the moment (my son-in-law's dog) and despite their size, they are a great breed and personality. And a lot of fun. And yes, they are a hunting dog of sorts and fiercely protective. From Rudy's faith in action, we see how is allows us to overcome and endure such dire circumstances. When Rudy could see the end coming, he engaged in prayer and into the only lifeline that could save him from death. When we submit our circumstances into His hands, let go of our independence and self-reliance, God delivers. In Rudy's case, God revealed that He is Yahweh Yireh (God our provider), El Roi (God who watches over me) and Jehovah Mefalti (The Lord my Deliverer).
If there is one thing that a Telbat novel has encouraged me to do is this: pray before starting reading. This way, I can be sensitive to what God wants to teach me in the novel. Collectively, from his novels, there are many snippets contained therein of how we are to live for Christ and learn more about:
-who God is, his many attributes and their names,
discipleship,
-dying to yourself,
-obedience to His Word,
-laying down your life so others can live
-listening to the Spirit,
-putting yourself before others
-developing a character of integrity,
-unconditional love towards humanity including our family and spouse,
-standing up for Christ
-living out your faith
-loving the sinner but not the sin
-praying for your oppressor or those persecuting you,
-who you are in Christ,
I have said in many of my reviews that I don't believe Christian fiction should entertain solely. I want it to:
-encourage my walk with God,
-not deviate from known biblical doctrine, and not lead a non-believer astray or promote false doctrine,
-honour God,
-not encourage worship of the created (eg Angels) instead of the Creator (God).
After reading every Telbat novel, I finish with all the above criteria all ticked. Telbat's novels reveal not just the mind and heart of the author, but more importantly, more of the heart and mind of Christ. And it is this that God wants so desperately to do with every Christian author as they allow the Spirit to guide them as they write His message through fiction. I also am encouraged when I see through an author's fiction that they have a heart after God, just like David from the Bible. I see this in David Telbat! While he continues to this and writes novels that reflect God's heart, I will read his work.
After reading this novel in this new series, I finish it uplifted and looking forward with eager anticipation to the next one, Distant Front.
Highly Recommended.
World Building 5/5
Characterisation 5/5
Story 5/5
Spiritual Level 4/5
Enemy Spiritual Level 3/5
Overall Rating 4.5/5
I have thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It has been a wise choice on Telbat's part to continue this series with the character of Titus Caspertein. It has breathed a fresh air into the series and allowed it to be taken to the next level. That is not to say that the first series was getting stale or boring; far from it. I wondered why Telbat has done this. Why could he not just do this with one of the other COIL agents from that series? We were already endeared to them so that would have engaged us to this new series. From what I can see, there is a parallel to the apostle Paul here. Just as God took an enemy of God and made him one of His most valued and successful ambassadors for Christ and His mission on earth, so too has Telbat done the same with Titus Casperstein. Is the message here that God can do the same today to those who are actively against Him and turn them towards Him? You bet it is, and He can and He does do this and will always do so. He did this with all those who are followers of Jesus to this day. I pray that any reader who does not know Christ will identify themselves in Titus and see what God can do when they realise their need for Him. Just as Titus did. Like him and Oleg, and the other characters who have become Christian through the witness to them from other COIL agents, they all came to the end of their rebellion and sinful lives, realising its futility and emptiness, that it needed to be filled with something sustaining and satisfying. And when that happened, they found the only solution was Jesus Christ, Artos Zoes (the Bread of Life, John 6:48-51) and Living Water (John 7:38).
I loved Telbat's further development of Titus' character in this novel. Seeing him grow more into a disciple of Christ and show more of Christ's character is one of the elements of this series that I find uplifting and satisfying. I guess the best example that showcases this is when he asked God how he should respond to Rashid's infiltration into his house and family. Pre-conversion, Titus would have followed his own plan of action and confronted Rashid in the way his reputation had dictated over the past two decades. But this time, he found peace, reassurance and a calm resolve when he realised how Jesus would have handled this. I pray that any reader, Christian or not, would receive the message here and apply it to their lives. The Christian to see that they need to die to self and be obedient to Christ and His ways. The non-believer to see that there is a better way to deal with life's tribulation other than what they only know. This better way leads to restoration and relationship. I know that every reader of this novel will presume that Rashid will accept Jesus in the next novel. Everything is leading to this. What joyous expectation and anticipation for the next novel! Bring it on, David Telbat! And when he does, we will see it is because the light of Christ shone through Titus. Absent was there of judgement, criticism, arrogance, deceit, from Titus towards Rashid, just brotherly love, acceptance and a sense of family and belonging. All the things that Rashid never had but attracted him like a moth to a flame. It was this witness that nullified his greed, selfishness, murderous intent and covetousness of the priceless artefact but led him to see in Titus something that he so desperately desires.
I must confess that I was tense and fearful of every account of Rudy's survival against one of the harshest environments on earth. This was tempered by the inclusion of one of my favourite breeds of dogs, the St Bernard and Rudy's faith. A St Bernard is living with us at the moment (my son-in-law's dog) and despite their size, they are a great breed and personality. And a lot of fun. And yes, they are a hunting dog of sorts and fiercely protective. From Rudy's faith in action, we see how is allows us to overcome and endure such dire circumstances. When Rudy could see the end coming, he engaged in prayer and into the only lifeline that could save him from death. When we submit our circumstances into His hands, let go of our independence and self-reliance, God delivers. In Rudy's case, God revealed that He is Yahweh Yireh (God our provider), El Roi (God who watches over me) and Jehovah Mefalti (The Lord my Deliverer).
If there is one thing that a Telbat novel has encouraged me to do is this: pray before starting reading. This way, I can be sensitive to what God wants to teach me in the novel. Collectively, from his novels, there are many snippets contained therein of how we are to live for Christ and learn more about:
-who God is, his many attributes and their names,
discipleship,
-dying to yourself,
-obedience to His Word,
-laying down your life so others can live
-listening to the Spirit,
-putting yourself before others
-developing a character of integrity,
-unconditional love towards humanity including our family and spouse,
-standing up for Christ
-living out your faith
-loving the sinner but not the sin
-praying for your oppressor or those persecuting you,
-who you are in Christ,
I have said in many of my reviews that I don't believe Christian fiction should entertain solely. I want it to:
-encourage my walk with God,
-not deviate from known biblical doctrine, and not lead a non-believer astray or promote false doctrine,
-honour God,
-not encourage worship of the created (eg Angels) instead of the Creator (God).
After reading every Telbat novel, I finish with all the above criteria all ticked. Telbat's novels reveal not just the mind and heart of the author, but more importantly, more of the heart and mind of Christ. And it is this that God wants so desperately to do with every Christian author as they allow the Spirit to guide them as they write His message through fiction. I also am encouraged when I see through an author's fiction that they have a heart after God, just like David from the Bible. I see this in David Telbat! While he continues to this and writes novels that reflect God's heart, I will read his work.
After reading this novel in this new series, I finish it uplifted and looking forward with eager anticipation to the next one, Distant Front.
Highly Recommended.
World Building 5/5
Characterisation 5/5
Story 5/5
Spiritual Level 4/5
Enemy Spiritual Level 3/5
Overall Rating 4.5/5
January 2, 2021
Oh the tension!
Continue on with Titus Caspertein et. al. In this the second series by D.I.Telbat. good heavens the man knows how to keep you hooked. So far every book has been non stop action and tension. You know there's a problem when it is 3am, your eyes are watering you just keep thinking, "one more chapter". I'm going to be sad when I get to the end of all these books. I've grown to love the Dowlers, Casperteins,Luigi and all the others that have become a part of the COIL family.
Continue on with Titus Caspertein et. al. In this the second series by D.I.Telbat. good heavens the man knows how to keep you hooked. So far every book has been non stop action and tension. You know there's a problem when it is 3am, your eyes are watering you just keep thinking, "one more chapter". I'm going to be sad when I get to the end of all these books. I've grown to love the Dowlers, Casperteins,Luigi and all the others that have become a part of the COIL family.
March 13, 2021
It deserves 10 stars!
Such a fine, clean, Godly book about those who are persecuted in foreign lands! Exciting and fast paced, this Legacy series introduces a new family and all the dynamics between them. Sometimes I found myself starting to pray for the characters because they’re so real, but prayed instead for any real people going through the trials portrayed in this series. God bless Mr Telbat!
Such a fine, clean, Godly book about those who are persecuted in foreign lands! Exciting and fast paced, this Legacy series introduces a new family and all the dynamics between them. Sometimes I found myself starting to pray for the characters because they’re so real, but prayed instead for any real people going through the trials portrayed in this series. God bless Mr Telbat!
September 26, 2021
Very good story telling
If anyone ever said Christian fiction is boring has never read any books written by DI Telbat. Page turners for sure and very imaginative, well researched story telling.
If anyone ever said Christian fiction is boring has never read any books written by DI Telbat. Page turners for sure and very imaginative, well researched story telling.
November 28, 2021
Captivated
Will continue series and more!!
I couldn't t get my work done for wanting to get back to this book! Thank you!
Will continue series and more!!
I couldn't t get my work done for wanting to get back to this book! Thank you!
August 18, 2019
Every bit as good as Clancy!!
When I browsed for Christian reading on Kindle unlimited, I never dreamed is find D. I. Telnet's most exceptional books. I started on this series after flying through his first trilogy. His plots are detailed and his character development is superb. In fact, I don't think I've found more than a couple type-o's in the 4 books I've read, which by itself is a pleasure. Every bit as good as Tom Clancy's earlier books-which is all I can speak to having been unable to read beyond his Jack Ryan character beginning President. Corban Dowler, in all his guises, and his other COIL agents and families, are so believable and thought out.
I actually came to the Distant books through a synopsis of one of his later works, which stated I'd be better equipped to follow the backstory here if I had details from the COIL series. So glad I took the prompt. Mr. Telbat writes an intricate story, woven together with God's grace providing the threads that makes it whole.
Please keep doing what you do, Mr, Telbat!!! 💗🙏
When I browsed for Christian reading on Kindle unlimited, I never dreamed is find D. I. Telnet's most exceptional books. I started on this series after flying through his first trilogy. His plots are detailed and his character development is superb. In fact, I don't think I've found more than a couple type-o's in the 4 books I've read, which by itself is a pleasure. Every bit as good as Tom Clancy's earlier books-which is all I can speak to having been unable to read beyond his Jack Ryan character beginning President. Corban Dowler, in all his guises, and his other COIL agents and families, are so believable and thought out.
I actually came to the Distant books through a synopsis of one of his later works, which stated I'd be better equipped to follow the backstory here if I had details from the COIL series. So glad I took the prompt. Mr. Telbat writes an intricate story, woven together with God's grace providing the threads that makes it whole.
Please keep doing what you do, Mr, Telbat!!! 💗🙏
December 15, 2019
Wow
I have never read a fictional book that could build my faith as this one has done. The story is rally how we believes in Christ should think act and talk. Though to many it is just to far fetched to believe God can deliver His Children from the enemies clasp, God will do what is needed for that which glorifies Him and which accoplishes His will. The ways God moves may leave us on earth with the question WHY GOD, but His ways are not our ways... Thank You for a great read.
I have never read a fictional book that could build my faith as this one has done. The story is rally how we believes in Christ should think act and talk. Though to many it is just to far fetched to believe God can deliver His Children from the enemies clasp, God will do what is needed for that which glorifies Him and which accoplishes His will. The ways God moves may leave us on earth with the question WHY GOD, but His ways are not our ways... Thank You for a great read.
September 16, 2018
Interesting
Another good read from D I Telbat. He always makes sure God is glorified and reveled in the lives of the characters, exactly what you want in a Christian read. Gets a little long in some parts, but keeps you reading. One area I like with his books is the detail. Can’t wait to see if Oleg is rescued!
Another good read from D I Telbat. He always makes sure God is glorified and reveled in the lives of the characters, exactly what you want in a Christian read. Gets a little long in some parts, but keeps you reading. One area I like with his books is the detail. Can’t wait to see if Oleg is rescued!
April 7, 2018
Distant Contact
The second time I have read this book and it still fascinates me the steps that COiL takes to do the will of God. Amazing book and a must read for anyone who wants to do mission work.
The second time I have read this book and it still fascinates me the steps that COiL takes to do the will of God. Amazing book and a must read for anyone who wants to do mission work.
April 24, 2018
Great series
I have given this book and the entire COIL series 5 stars because the books have suspense, intrigue and share so well how we should love, protect, witness and work for our Lord and Savior. I have enjoyed each one of the COIL books.
I have given this book and the entire COIL series 5 stars because the books have suspense, intrigue and share so well how we should love, protect, witness and work for our Lord and Savior. I have enjoyed each one of the COIL books.
November 28, 2018
Selfless service !
It's hard to find the best way to say how much these stories have broken my heart but also given me courage to help where I can as much as I can . I'm not done , another book is on the way !
It's hard to find the best way to say how much these stories have broken my heart but also given me courage to help where I can as much as I can . I'm not done , another book is on the way !
September 2, 2019
How refreshing to find "Christian Fiction" that is actually Christian, in contrast to vague mentions of God or faith. Mr. Telbat strikes a creative blend of tense action and suspense in a world very dangerous to Christians. The book was both entertaining and inspiring.
April 24, 2023
Wow! Edge of your seat thriller- could not put it down!
January 4, 2024
Really good action spy story. There is a secret organization that is called COIL. They are all Christians and fight the bad guys around the world with non-lethal means.
May 25, 2016
Prepare to lose sleep
There is so much action but humor too. I like the way there were three stories going at the same time, like snapshots. Then at the end to see how they tied together and restored an estranged family. If you like espionage and a mystery thriller you will love this book. There is violence but no graphic scenes. I really liked Rudys story of incredible survival.
There is so much action but humor too. I like the way there were three stories going at the same time, like snapshots. Then at the end to see how they tied together and restored an estranged family. If you like espionage and a mystery thriller you will love this book. There is violence but no graphic scenes. I really liked Rudys story of incredible survival.
June 1, 2016
Excellent read
This book is another fine example of D.I. Telbat's writing. Fast-paced, great story line, and well-developed characters makes this a fine adventure story for anyone. I love the strong Christian theme throughout Telbat's books! I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
This book is another fine example of D.I. Telbat's writing. Fast-paced, great story line, and well-developed characters makes this a fine adventure story for anyone. I love the strong Christian theme throughout Telbat's books! I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews