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Seventh Dimension #1
The Door
The Door is the first book in the Seventh Dimension Series that combines contemporary, historical, and fantasy elements into a Christian "coming-of-age" story. A curse put on Shale Snyder, because of a secret, shrouds her with insecurity and fear. Following suspension from school, Shale's best friend isn't allowed to see her anymore and she feels abandoned by her family. When a stray dog befriends her, she follows it into the woods. There she discovers a door that leads to another world...
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2012
407 people are currently reading
3033 people want to read
About the author
Lorilyn Roberts
28 books249 followersLorilyn Roberts is an Amazon bestselling author with over 20 books to her name, including Children of Dreams and Seventh Dimension – The Door. A recipient of over 50 writing awards, she holds an MA in Creative Writing from Perelandra College and is an alumna of the University of Alabama, graduating Magna Cum Laude. Lorilyn is also a ham radio operator, KO4LBS, and CW enthusiast.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
November 26, 2012
Lorilyn Roberts has written an entertaining story with the powerful gospel message woven throughout. This book is clean and has no offensive material in it - which makes it great for readers of all ages - both young and old. But, even more importantly, she shares the message of Christ within these pages. For those familiar with scripture, you will recognize many stories from the New Testament within the book.
This is an interesting story that starts with the main character, Shale, living in the reality of a teenage life in 2012. She is a normal teenager with issues at school, a broken family situation and difficulties with friends. However, she finds herself in a fantasy land, "The Seventh Dimension". This is where most of the story takes place as Shale finds healing from her past and a relationship with "the king" who represents Jesus in the story.
Great story with a great message. Recommended to youth and adults!
Shelley Hitz, author of "Teen Devotionals...for Girls!" series
This is an interesting story that starts with the main character, Shale, living in the reality of a teenage life in 2012. She is a normal teenager with issues at school, a broken family situation and difficulties with friends. However, she finds herself in a fantasy land, "The Seventh Dimension". This is where most of the story takes place as Shale finds healing from her past and a relationship with "the king" who represents Jesus in the story.
Great story with a great message. Recommended to youth and adults!
Shelley Hitz, author of "Teen Devotionals...for Girls!" series
December 9, 2012
Shale Snyder is smart, determined, impatient—and a troubled teen. Abandoned by her father, misunderstood by her mother, step-father and school authorities; accused of cheating, isolated from her best friend, and bullied by other students? It is a crazy, difficult world she lives in—hard to know what to do, when to fight and when to walk away. Comfort comes in unique ways. The school counselor says she is gifted and an apparently homeless dog adopts her. When Sale runs away from home with her broken birthday gift (yet again) it is understandable.
In her flight, a weak ankle gives way; her head hits a rock and so beings the inner journey that changes everything for Shale. While unconscious she enters a dimensional door that leads her further and further into another time and place. She is chased from an idyllic garden through a second door to enter the time Jesus walked this earth and taught. She comes face to face with the enemy of her soul and eventually defeats him. She briefly meets her long absent father and wicked step-mother. She hears a wonderful teacher, discovers He is THE KING and then meets Him and is changed by Him. She brings her half-brother to Him for healing and during this time in this dimension finds the love of her life. Oh, yeah, she also talks with animals during all these events! There is plenty of drama; in fact it seemed almost non-stop!
Arriving back in her own time and dimension, she finds people have changed. It is almost as if changes in the spiritual dimension have an effect on people in the natural dimension.
The issues of unfairness, injustice, not listening and not taking people seriously were strong themes throughout; themes that many teens relate to. I felt that Roberts did an excellent job of incorporating the teachings of Jesus into the resolution of Shale’s problems. Her characters were well developed. Some characters I loved right away and others I disliked immediately. Some grew on me slowly—I think young people would relate well to both the characters and the issues. There is a final warm fuzzy but I don’t want to spoil it for you!
This is a book that I could recommend to teens interested in fantasy or who are dealing with similar issues as those Shale encountered. I would also recommend it to adults/parents of a troubled teen to help give them an understanding from a teen perspective.
In her flight, a weak ankle gives way; her head hits a rock and so beings the inner journey that changes everything for Shale. While unconscious she enters a dimensional door that leads her further and further into another time and place. She is chased from an idyllic garden through a second door to enter the time Jesus walked this earth and taught. She comes face to face with the enemy of her soul and eventually defeats him. She briefly meets her long absent father and wicked step-mother. She hears a wonderful teacher, discovers He is THE KING and then meets Him and is changed by Him. She brings her half-brother to Him for healing and during this time in this dimension finds the love of her life. Oh, yeah, she also talks with animals during all these events! There is plenty of drama; in fact it seemed almost non-stop!
Arriving back in her own time and dimension, she finds people have changed. It is almost as if changes in the spiritual dimension have an effect on people in the natural dimension.
The issues of unfairness, injustice, not listening and not taking people seriously were strong themes throughout; themes that many teens relate to. I felt that Roberts did an excellent job of incorporating the teachings of Jesus into the resolution of Shale’s problems. Her characters were well developed. Some characters I loved right away and others I disliked immediately. Some grew on me slowly—I think young people would relate well to both the characters and the issues. There is a final warm fuzzy but I don’t want to spoil it for you!
This is a book that I could recommend to teens interested in fantasy or who are dealing with similar issues as those Shale encountered. I would also recommend it to adults/parents of a troubled teen to help give them an understanding from a teen perspective.
November 16, 2015
The story of Shale Snyder, who feels lost, unloved, abandoned by God, and just has an all-around miserable life, which is only tolerable because of her best friend Rachel. Then Rachel's mother decides that Rachel is no longer allowed to be friends with Shale.
In her misery, Shale sees a dog outside of her window, and goes to it, hoping that it will not run away. Instead, she trips, hits her head on a stone, and is transported to the Seventh Dimension.
For the first part of the book I was confused about the Seventh Dimension. However, if you think about it as if it is similar to a parallel world, it should make sense.
Shale has no idea why she is in the Seventh Dimension, and we do not either. But as she is there, she comes to truly understand the King's love.
People Shale knows, mainly her family, occupy the Seventh Dimension, but they are not the same ones she knew. This is where it is like a parallel universe. Shale accepts her new life, and refers to the people as they are; her father, her stepmother, and such. While this may sound confusing, it really isn't. In fact, its actually quite fascinating.
This is set in Biblical times, and while Shale is there, she is able to witness many of Jesus' miracles, and here of his Crucifixion. These are things Shale has never heard of before, since she does not have a religious background, and it was interesting to see it through her eyes. Not only is she hearing of them for the first time, she is actually experiencing them, at the time in which they happen!
When Shale enters the second dimension, she is gifted with the ability to speak to animals, and each one had a distinct personality. I, personally, found them all quite lovable.
Some characters were lovable (Mainly the animals) and some were rather unpleasant. But in each and every one of them you can see a change, which is, of course, most obvious with Shale.
While this book is slightly Narnia-esque, it is different. A character travels to a different world and learns a lesson, but it ends there. A story of love and forgiveness, realization and redemption.
Review by: http://lachatblanc.wordpress.com/
In her misery, Shale sees a dog outside of her window, and goes to it, hoping that it will not run away. Instead, she trips, hits her head on a stone, and is transported to the Seventh Dimension.
For the first part of the book I was confused about the Seventh Dimension. However, if you think about it as if it is similar to a parallel world, it should make sense.
Shale has no idea why she is in the Seventh Dimension, and we do not either. But as she is there, she comes to truly understand the King's love.
People Shale knows, mainly her family, occupy the Seventh Dimension, but they are not the same ones she knew. This is where it is like a parallel universe. Shale accepts her new life, and refers to the people as they are; her father, her stepmother, and such. While this may sound confusing, it really isn't. In fact, its actually quite fascinating.
This is set in Biblical times, and while Shale is there, she is able to witness many of Jesus' miracles, and here of his Crucifixion. These are things Shale has never heard of before, since she does not have a religious background, and it was interesting to see it through her eyes. Not only is she hearing of them for the first time, she is actually experiencing them, at the time in which they happen!
When Shale enters the second dimension, she is gifted with the ability to speak to animals, and each one had a distinct personality. I, personally, found them all quite lovable.
Some characters were lovable (Mainly the animals) and some were rather unpleasant. But in each and every one of them you can see a change, which is, of course, most obvious with Shale.
While this book is slightly Narnia-esque, it is different. A character travels to a different world and learns a lesson, but it ends there. A story of love and forgiveness, realization and redemption.
Review by: http://lachatblanc.wordpress.com/
November 16, 2012
A truly epic adventure for readers of all ages: although Lorilyn calls this a YA coming of age story, it's every bit as wondrous for adults. The author has studied the classics, and only subsequent reads will help you find the planted symbolism that makes Seventh Dimension-The Door a clever read.
You'll find a loving nod to Pilgrim's Progress if you follow the little white dog into the woods. Shale Snyder has a dreadful accident as a young girl, and finds it difficult to forgive herself or move forward when the victim refuses to accept her grief or confession. Grief is accompanied by hatred which colors Shale's world.
She is given a second chance, however, in a fantastic land of talking animals (grown from Roberts's first story, The Donkey and the King), an allegory which makes teaching your children about forgiveness, good and evil, a much easier task. Follow Shale and her new friends as she travels on an adventure of a lifetime to find the king while also growing out of her bad habits into a self-assured young woman who learns obedience and gratitude despite willfulness in the face of despair. Finding the father she always wanted, and his new wife and mysterious servants, help Shale unravel the truth of her long-ago accident, and face the consequences with a clean heart.
Truth, time travel, self-doubt, sacrifice, forgiveness and even all four loves, are explored in depth in this soon-to-be beloved tale of supernatural grace. Told in third person from Shale's point of view, with humor, dread, sorrow and shame, Roberts's time-honored story-telling will make you feel part of the adventure and eagerly anticipating the next book.
You'll find a loving nod to Pilgrim's Progress if you follow the little white dog into the woods. Shale Snyder has a dreadful accident as a young girl, and finds it difficult to forgive herself or move forward when the victim refuses to accept her grief or confession. Grief is accompanied by hatred which colors Shale's world.
She is given a second chance, however, in a fantastic land of talking animals (grown from Roberts's first story, The Donkey and the King), an allegory which makes teaching your children about forgiveness, good and evil, a much easier task. Follow Shale and her new friends as she travels on an adventure of a lifetime to find the king while also growing out of her bad habits into a self-assured young woman who learns obedience and gratitude despite willfulness in the face of despair. Finding the father she always wanted, and his new wife and mysterious servants, help Shale unravel the truth of her long-ago accident, and face the consequences with a clean heart.
Truth, time travel, self-doubt, sacrifice, forgiveness and even all four loves, are explored in depth in this soon-to-be beloved tale of supernatural grace. Told in third person from Shale's point of view, with humor, dread, sorrow and shame, Roberts's time-honored story-telling will make you feel part of the adventure and eagerly anticipating the next book.
November 19, 2012
What a great mix of ingredients inherent in this Christian allegorical novel for young adults! There's plenty of drama and conflict inherent in the ongoing battle between good and evil with a sprinkling of romance and even a dash of political commentary. The animal characters are charming and the human characters are equally interesting. We immediately identify with the young protagonist Shale as she deals with her feelings of rejection, abandonment, and social isolation, and we can also empathize with Daniel and his conflicted feelings about just who the teacher really is--whether He is actually who Shale believes Him to be. I love the concept of "multiple realities" depending on the choices one makes, and I think this is really a novel for all ages. It's a journey of self-discovery but so much more!
January 24, 2013
If you are looking for a fantastic young adult Christian novel, then Seventh Dimension – The Door by Lorilyn Roberts is the book for you. It is story of a trouble young teen coming to an understanding knowledge of herself and, more importantly, knowledge of the love of Christ. I found this book hard to put down.
The author’s unique story telling style makes the book real and very believable. The story is both well developed and defined. It is easy to read and follow as the plot develops and takes on various twist and turns.
I really enjoyed the characters in the story. They were easy to identify with and very real to life. It was easy to put myself into the story and follow along with the action.
Seventh Dimension – The Door by Lorilyn Roberts is an excellent book and I highly recommend it to all ages.
The author’s unique story telling style makes the book real and very believable. The story is both well developed and defined. It is easy to read and follow as the plot develops and takes on various twist and turns.
I really enjoyed the characters in the story. They were easy to identify with and very real to life. It was easy to put myself into the story and follow along with the action.
Seventh Dimension – The Door by Lorilyn Roberts is an excellent book and I highly recommend it to all ages.
November 27, 2012
Thoroughly Enjoyable!
Shale's got serious problems - conflict at home, a principal who wants her out of school, peers who hate her. But as I get to know Shale, I understand why she's got issues. I quickly begin to care about her and I really, really want her to pull through in the end.
I should have guessed by the title that it would take more than expert counseling to get her on track. But I was surprised and delighted when she found herself in a mysterious dimension that exposed her to danger, mystery and intrigue. I love stories like C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia, and this one captivated me as well.
Well-written and thoroughly enjoyable, I not only found a great read, but a great author. Looking forward to more in the series!
Shale's got serious problems - conflict at home, a principal who wants her out of school, peers who hate her. But as I get to know Shale, I understand why she's got issues. I quickly begin to care about her and I really, really want her to pull through in the end.
I should have guessed by the title that it would take more than expert counseling to get her on track. But I was surprised and delighted when she found herself in a mysterious dimension that exposed her to danger, mystery and intrigue. I love stories like C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia, and this one captivated me as well.
Well-written and thoroughly enjoyable, I not only found a great read, but a great author. Looking forward to more in the series!
December 20, 2012
This book is a wonderful tale about the struggles that teens face today. It's a great teaching tool, particularly about Jews and about Christ and His relationship with us. Spiritual truths are wrapped up in a fun story full of internal and external struggles. It was an enjoyable book with characters you want to hug right off of the page.
December 20, 2012
This was such a sweet story of redemption. I've never read anything quite like it, and I must say that this book is definitely one of my absolute favorites. Ms. Roberts did an amazing job on the storyline, and The Seventh Dimension tells a very meaningful lesson by using some beautifully- written characters and Biblical references. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
February 10, 2013
Well written Book for teens
May 4, 2018
This was an overall unusual read. Not overly enjoyable but not bad either. Just not my cup of tea.
January 15, 2020
This was an interesting story with a mix of fantasy, historical, and biblical references.
The time-jumping was a little confusing, and some of the characters have some really unique abilities.
Well told story that holds your attention. It almost reminds me of some of the stories from Frank Peretti
The time-jumping was a little confusing, and some of the characters have some really unique abilities.
Well told story that holds your attention. It almost reminds me of some of the stories from Frank Peretti
December 19, 2017
Shale Snyder is a troubled teenager. Her father left her mother when she was little, she has alienated almost all of the other children around her and has problems at school. Following yet another incident she is suspended and feels totally cast adrift. At this point she finds a door and hears a voice calling her to enter...
There is quite a clever concept at the heart of this book; that the Holy Land at the time of Jesus is a sort of dimensional nexus where those who are called can travel and gain spiritual help for themselves as well as the other travellers. It is a fine blending of both science fiction and Christian concepts.
There is also much of The Pilgrim's Progress about this, with Shale's journey and the characters she meets. And although she is living near Nazareth and does encounter Jesus (and other people mentioned in the bible) the religious side is not forced but comes naturally from the narrative. There is also a fair smattering of The Wizard of Oz, as the dimensional copy of the Holy Land from 2000 years ago also contains versions of people that Shale knows from home.
The result is a book that shows how even a little faith by someone as lost as Shale can give her the will to turn her life around and make herself and those around her better people. It is a very positive message, though not gained without significant trials.
There are a couple of negatives. Sometimes the narrative thread can be a little confusing, a side-effect of the dimension-hopping aspect of the story. Also some of the characters appear to serve little purpose, but perhaps as this is the first of a series they will come into play in later books. There is also one comment from her friend Daniel (another traveller from modern-day Israel) that did concern me, I hope this is due to his personal experience rather than a theme of future books.
Overall this is an engrossing read, managing to deliver a positive Christian message without labouring the point and providing a good story arc for Shale to keep the reader invested in the story.
There is quite a clever concept at the heart of this book; that the Holy Land at the time of Jesus is a sort of dimensional nexus where those who are called can travel and gain spiritual help for themselves as well as the other travellers. It is a fine blending of both science fiction and Christian concepts.
There is also much of The Pilgrim's Progress about this, with Shale's journey and the characters she meets. And although she is living near Nazareth and does encounter Jesus (and other people mentioned in the bible) the religious side is not forced but comes naturally from the narrative. There is also a fair smattering of The Wizard of Oz, as the dimensional copy of the Holy Land from 2000 years ago also contains versions of people that Shale knows from home.
The result is a book that shows how even a little faith by someone as lost as Shale can give her the will to turn her life around and make herself and those around her better people. It is a very positive message, though not gained without significant trials.
There are a couple of negatives. Sometimes the narrative thread can be a little confusing, a side-effect of the dimension-hopping aspect of the story. Also some of the characters appear to serve little purpose, but perhaps as this is the first of a series they will come into play in later books. There is also one comment from her friend Daniel (another traveller from modern-day Israel) that did concern me, I hope this is due to his personal experience rather than a theme of future books.
Overall this is an engrossing read, managing to deliver a positive Christian message without labouring the point and providing a good story arc for Shale to keep the reader invested in the story.
January 29, 2020
This story of a young girl in her adolescence, is both heart rending and heart warming. Her family, school, and social experiences give her the tools to make sound choices in favor of her King. She grows through difficult circumstances to become a true daughter of the King.
December 22, 2012
SEVENTH DIMENSION: THE DOOR is a young adult fantasy like no other. It starts off ordinary enough as we follow the troubled young Shale Snyder through a few difficulties at school and at home, but takes an amazing turn into Biblical times. Amazing because there's a twist.
A few others have gotten there the same way. And while there are plenty of adventures and mysteries to solve, this story is filled with many wonderful explanations of life and history that are enlightening to readers of all ages.
I particularly enjoyed the way Ms. Roberts did such a marvelous job of revealing the story through the eyes of Shale, and how she captured the sense of discovery of one's true spiritual journey. In fact, I could almost believe that there was a possibility that the experience could even happen in real life.
At any rate, I found the book not only an entertaining read, but one of such unique spiritual insights that I will eagerly look forward to reading book two. Because THE SEVENTH DIMENSION is a place of hidden treasures for all ages... whether it is real, or not.
A few others have gotten there the same way. And while there are plenty of adventures and mysteries to solve, this story is filled with many wonderful explanations of life and history that are enlightening to readers of all ages.
I particularly enjoyed the way Ms. Roberts did such a marvelous job of revealing the story through the eyes of Shale, and how she captured the sense of discovery of one's true spiritual journey. In fact, I could almost believe that there was a possibility that the experience could even happen in real life.
At any rate, I found the book not only an entertaining read, but one of such unique spiritual insights that I will eagerly look forward to reading book two. Because THE SEVENTH DIMENSION is a place of hidden treasures for all ages... whether it is real, or not.
October 19, 2015
Shale needs to conquer what previously took place in her life in order to grip hold of what is to come? She’d come across a door in the forest; it leads to a different realm with a garden as well as animals that speak. Shrouding her with insecurity and fear is a curse. Her best pal can’t have contact with her any longer. Shale feels lonely, that is until a stray dog assists her. Lorilyn has weaved a delightful tale of the imaginary, and her beliefs in God. Her story is laden with messages that will intrigue as well as encourage the reader to walk by faith and learn from the messages in the narrative.
February 23, 2022
I give this book four stars because it moved a bit slowly in the beginning, but it got a whole lot more interesting toward the half-way point. This book is about going back in time when Jesus was on Earth and meeting him. This defiantly helped me to want to read the bible more. This Story is a fun fantasy way to learn more about God and become closer to him. My favorite quote from this book that specifically made me want to read the Bible is this: "Those who read the Bible go back in time and meet the king." You can find this quote on page 218. I hope this review helps and if you are considering reading it, for sure give it a try.
February 1, 2014
Seventh Dimension - The Door by Lorilyn Roberts is a coming of age story about a young girl named Shale, who travels to a separate dimension to learn about faith, love and more. This engaging Christian-based story leads the main character, as well as her new-found friends, along a path of self-discovery to learn important lessons. A Young adult novel, The Door is a story that can be shared with the entire family.
September 7, 2015
Great read
This novel, although it has a religious tone, is inspiring because it has important themes such as dealing with bullying, forgiveness, trust, and love. I would recommend it to teens who think there is no place in the world for them, or simply, if you enjoy a novel that makes you think critically.
This novel, although it has a religious tone, is inspiring because it has important themes such as dealing with bullying, forgiveness, trust, and love. I would recommend it to teens who think there is no place in the world for them, or simply, if you enjoy a novel that makes you think critically.
February 27, 2014
Overall I enjoyed "Seventh Dimension" quite a bit. There were some parts of it I didn't quite "get" and a couple of times I had to tell myself to "keep reading." That being said, I'm very glad I did indeed KEEP READING, for I found the 2nd half of this novel to be my favorite part.
November 16, 2015
Believe
This is a story about love, betrayal, belief and redemption. It is the story of a young girl seeking love, forgiveness and understanding in this world. She finds them and more in the seventh dimension.
This is a story about love, betrayal, belief and redemption. It is the story of a young girl seeking love, forgiveness and understanding in this world. She finds them and more in the seventh dimension.
February 14, 2019
Alice in wonderland meets king of kings
Even though it's well written, I couldn't tell if the Seventh Dimension was a religious parable, a story about teen angst, or a science fiction fantasy.
Even though it's well written, I couldn't tell if the Seventh Dimension was a religious parable, a story about teen angst, or a science fiction fantasy.
January 21, 2016
It was really good! Many times, I couldn't help but feel so heartbroken for Shale, but end the end... well, her life is changed forever! I love the animal characters, especially Cherios.
June 2, 2025
I was really excited to dive into this book, as I had seen it compared to a Christian Alice in Wonderland, which I found intriguing. The book is recommended for ages 10 and up, but because of the light teen romance and demonic activity, I would have my sensitive daughter wait to read this, and focus on the children's book version first. It is mean to be a young adult fiction, which is why it does read younger in language and perspective.
I had a hard time getting into this book initially. It's categorized as young adult, and while Shale (the main character) starts off as a 14 year old, her character felt younger. Her dialogue and thinking made her seem closer to 12 than 14, which made parts of the story feel inauthentic. There is a budding romance, which might be why her character was made to be 14. In general, I found that the dialogue, especially in the beginning half of the book, was extremely distracting. Sometimes it felt forced, other times it didn't fit the characters or the time period, or (and I'm sorry to say this) felt like a lady trying to write from a 14 year old girl's perspective poorly. Some of the references to technology like Ipods felt a bit dated, but the book was published in 2013, so I can look past that.
Once I managed to get past the dialogue (or at last used to it), I did enjoy the story. The blend of fantasy elements, such as talking animals, time travel, and portals, mixed with historical, Biblical fiction was unique. I wasn't sure about the talking animals at first, but they end up becoming lovable and deeply integrated into the storyline.
What I think Lorilyn Roberts did exceptionally well was entwining the events of the New Testament during the ministry of Jesus, into Shale's story. Shale witnessing Jesus preach, heal, and cast out demons is what ultimately drives her redemption. The repeated message of Shale being "daughter of the King" is a great message for young girls, and the love of the Father was highlighted well in contrast to the challenging relationship Shale has with her father. The other aspect that was done well was how Shale is witness to very physical manifestations of spiritual battles over souls. It wasn't overly dark, but was enough to allow the reader to feel the urgency and importance of spiritual warfare.
I wasn't sure if I would read the rest of the series, but after thinking about the story for a few days, I do think I will continue out of curiosity. Enough was left open-ended to entice you to keep reading. I hope the quality of the dialogue improves throughout the series (realistic dialogue is important to me as a reader), but even if not, there is enough quality in the plot for me to keep enjoying the story.
I had a hard time getting into this book initially. It's categorized as young adult, and while Shale (the main character) starts off as a 14 year old, her character felt younger. Her dialogue and thinking made her seem closer to 12 than 14, which made parts of the story feel inauthentic. There is a budding romance, which might be why her character was made to be 14. In general, I found that the dialogue, especially in the beginning half of the book, was extremely distracting. Sometimes it felt forced, other times it didn't fit the characters or the time period, or (and I'm sorry to say this) felt like a lady trying to write from a 14 year old girl's perspective poorly. Some of the references to technology like Ipods felt a bit dated, but the book was published in 2013, so I can look past that.
Once I managed to get past the dialogue (or at last used to it), I did enjoy the story. The blend of fantasy elements, such as talking animals, time travel, and portals, mixed with historical, Biblical fiction was unique. I wasn't sure about the talking animals at first, but they end up becoming lovable and deeply integrated into the storyline.
What I think Lorilyn Roberts did exceptionally well was entwining the events of the New Testament during the ministry of Jesus, into Shale's story. Shale witnessing Jesus preach, heal, and cast out demons is what ultimately drives her redemption. The repeated message of Shale being "daughter of the King" is a great message for young girls, and the love of the Father was highlighted well in contrast to the challenging relationship Shale has with her father. The other aspect that was done well was how Shale is witness to very physical manifestations of spiritual battles over souls. It wasn't overly dark, but was enough to allow the reader to feel the urgency and importance of spiritual warfare.
I wasn't sure if I would read the rest of the series, but after thinking about the story for a few days, I do think I will continue out of curiosity. Enough was left open-ended to entice you to keep reading. I hope the quality of the dialogue improves throughout the series (realistic dialogue is important to me as a reader), but even if not, there is enough quality in the plot for me to keep enjoying the story.
August 1, 2023
The Seventh Dimension: The Door by Lorilyn Roberts is book one in a Young Adult Christian fantasy series of four. This imaginative story portrays a strong female protagonist in Shale Snyder, a young teen struggling with guilt, unforgiveness, abandonment, and being bullied. She does her best to deal with her circumstances and negative feelings on her own, but when overwhelmed she runs off and follows a dog she has befriended into the woods. An accident leads through a portal that transports her to the city of Jerusalem at the time of Christ
About the book: The Seventh Dimension: The Door
While Shale navigates life in ancient Jerusalem the author weaves in threads that haunt her from the life she left behind, including the burden of a secret guilt. Some characters she meets look like people from her own time, including her absentee father and a boy who is her nemesis. She also meets a boy she doesn’t know and learns he too is from the future. Life in the ancient past has its own issues, including a wicked stepmother, shadowy underlings, and bothersome Worldly Crow.
She also has a new ability that allows her to hear animals talk, but the one person who really intrigues her is a mysterious man her animal friends refer to as the King.
Book Review: Seventh Dimension: The Door
The Seventh Dimension is a magical story with a biblical message of new life, forgiveness, and love. It introduces the message of the King through biblical characters, the witnessing of miracles, and the message of the New Testament. I especially enjoyed Shale’s realistic transformation from unbelief to belief.
This is the first book I’ve read from Lorilyn Roberts and hope to finish the rest of this series. I think fans of Christian fantasy like the Chronicles of Narnia will enjoy this story of redemption. And while this book is categorized as Young Adult, I think this captivating story will be loved by young and old, and am happy to give it 4 stars.
About the book: The Seventh Dimension: The Door
While Shale navigates life in ancient Jerusalem the author weaves in threads that haunt her from the life she left behind, including the burden of a secret guilt. Some characters she meets look like people from her own time, including her absentee father and a boy who is her nemesis. She also meets a boy she doesn’t know and learns he too is from the future. Life in the ancient past has its own issues, including a wicked stepmother, shadowy underlings, and bothersome Worldly Crow.
She also has a new ability that allows her to hear animals talk, but the one person who really intrigues her is a mysterious man her animal friends refer to as the King.
Book Review: Seventh Dimension: The Door
The Seventh Dimension is a magical story with a biblical message of new life, forgiveness, and love. It introduces the message of the King through biblical characters, the witnessing of miracles, and the message of the New Testament. I especially enjoyed Shale’s realistic transformation from unbelief to belief.
This is the first book I’ve read from Lorilyn Roberts and hope to finish the rest of this series. I think fans of Christian fantasy like the Chronicles of Narnia will enjoy this story of redemption. And while this book is categorized as Young Adult, I think this captivating story will be loved by young and old, and am happy to give it 4 stars.
September 29, 2017
SPOILER ALERT:do not read this if you want it to stay a sceret
Shale fells horrible for killing a kids dog throughout the entire book.
2 years later Jedd still hates her for it. She gets in suspended from school for things she did and didn't do. she sees a dog outside so she follows it in porthole where she mets and bunny and donkey gains the ability to talk to animals . they exsacpe from underlings (demons) in the garden (of Eden) so it is not completely acoret to the bible . she as has the donkey take to his old masters house. where they greet her saying that her father will be home In some time. Shale meets Daniel she starts to get a crush on him .over the course of 3 years She sees Jesus get tested , send the legion of demons sent in to the pigs.
when she hears from a crow that the king(Jesus) has been killed. He tells her that he can take her to the King. when try get there they get taken by underlings they tease her which lies but she fights back with the truth . saying she is a daughter of the king. In the end Daniel comes to to her rescue. The underlings had hurt Cherios(the bunny)they took her to a olive garden where she was healed. Shale meets her garden Angle Astella. Who open a porthole so shale and much afraid (the dog)can go back to the real wold.
Shale fells horrible for killing a kids dog throughout the entire book.
2 years later Jedd still hates her for it. She gets in suspended from school for things she did and didn't do. she sees a dog outside so she follows it in porthole where she mets and bunny and donkey gains the ability to talk to animals . they exsacpe from underlings (demons) in the garden (of Eden) so it is not completely acoret to the bible . she as has the donkey take to his old masters house. where they greet her saying that her father will be home In some time. Shale meets Daniel she starts to get a crush on him .over the course of 3 years She sees Jesus get tested , send the legion of demons sent in to the pigs.
when she hears from a crow that the king(Jesus) has been killed. He tells her that he can take her to the King. when try get there they get taken by underlings they tease her which lies but she fights back with the truth . saying she is a daughter of the king. In the end Daniel comes to to her rescue. The underlings had hurt Cherios(the bunny)they took her to a olive garden where she was healed. Shale meets her garden Angle Astella. Who open a porthole so shale and much afraid (the dog)can go back to the real wold.
November 2, 2016
I was gifted “The Door”, as I am a huge fan of allegory. This book first came out in 2013, and is now part of a vast series.
I grew up on “The Chronicles of Narnia”, “Pilgrim’s Progress”, and “Hind’s Feet on High Places”. These works were the basis of my reader’s identity, creating within me a love for layers of meaning and deeper truths. “The Door” reminds me of those works, with its artful allegorical tale. The author definitely knows her genre, as I see similarities to other works, but she has taken the examples that have come before, and made them her own.
The best part of this work, for me, was the strong, clear, Gospel message! As the main character, Shale, is dealing with many deep issues of anger and abandonment, the way she comes to understand her true worth, and believe in the King is written exceptionally. I would highly recommend this for others who have young people dealing with these issues.
I would also recommend this as a fun read during bedtime stories, perhaps a chapter a night. A great way to get younger kids into larger books and series.
I grew up on “The Chronicles of Narnia”, “Pilgrim’s Progress”, and “Hind’s Feet on High Places”. These works were the basis of my reader’s identity, creating within me a love for layers of meaning and deeper truths. “The Door” reminds me of those works, with its artful allegorical tale. The author definitely knows her genre, as I see similarities to other works, but she has taken the examples that have come before, and made them her own.
The best part of this work, for me, was the strong, clear, Gospel message! As the main character, Shale, is dealing with many deep issues of anger and abandonment, the way she comes to understand her true worth, and believe in the King is written exceptionally. I would highly recommend this for others who have young people dealing with these issues.
I would also recommend this as a fun read during bedtime stories, perhaps a chapter a night. A great way to get younger kids into larger books and series.
October 30, 2025
Awww I really liked it. I thought it was going to be boring because it’s a religious book but I was actually very surprised as to how accurate it was even though it’s fiction. I love how it feels like Narnia/ Alice in Wonderland so it gives the story a magical feeling while showing the story of Jesus (or the King they call him in the book) and making it enjoyable.
A young girl from Georgia who has never heard of him coming to Jerusalem and ends up loving Jesus in the end, and sees everything he’s done and hears his teachings. It really made me relate to the character and appreciate Jesus in a way I didn’t before.
I think everyone who knows Jesus and wants to get to know him should read it as it shows you the basics of what truly did. As well as gives you a deeper understanding and love for Jesus especially if you are struggling with your relationship with him. Will definitely be reading book 2 soon.
A young girl from Georgia who has never heard of him coming to Jerusalem and ends up loving Jesus in the end, and sees everything he’s done and hears his teachings. It really made me relate to the character and appreciate Jesus in a way I didn’t before.
I think everyone who knows Jesus and wants to get to know him should read it as it shows you the basics of what truly did. As well as gives you a deeper understanding and love for Jesus especially if you are struggling with your relationship with him. Will definitely be reading book 2 soon.
January 1, 2020
Shale is a young teenage girl with some issues. She feels guilty for accidentally killing a boy's dog, she's upset that she never got to know her dad because of a divorce, and she's angry with a boy who's mean to her and does inappropriate things. All that anger gives her a really bad attitude. That changes when she trips while chasing a little dog and whacks her head against a rock. She is magically transported to the seventh dimension where she meets Jesus and experiences a transformation.
The story is an interesting read with many biblical references. It feels very much like Alice in Wonderland or the Wizard of Oz with the talking animals and fantasy elements. The message of Jesus being a loving, merciful, forgiving king is a good one for young people to learn. Overall, a good read for pre-teen Christian readers.
The story is an interesting read with many biblical references. It feels very much like Alice in Wonderland or the Wizard of Oz with the talking animals and fantasy elements. The message of Jesus being a loving, merciful, forgiving king is a good one for young people to learn. Overall, a good read for pre-teen Christian readers.
February 17, 2019
Magical
This book was a little hard for me to get into at first, but as I continued reading I was sucked in and finished it all in one day. I loved the creativity of it, and the unique variety of different characters. This book was such an encouragement and so uplifting to read through. It was also a story richly told and intricately woven in a way that was... well... magical. I loved how Lorilyn Roberts built her story around the Bible in such a unique way, and the skill she used to make it come to life for Shale and the readers.
Shale was a little hard to swallow at first, just because she had the adolescent attitude problems that most teenagers have. The height of it was the way she treated the poor donkey at first, but she grew on me quickly and I found myself excited to see how she would keep growing throughout the book.
The story was clean and fun, and it made me constantly think of the Chronicles of Narnia series (which I loved!!). I would recommend this book to anyone! It was a true delight to read, and I'm glad I picked it up. I'll be looking forward to the next couple of books in this series.
Happy reading!
This book was a little hard for me to get into at first, but as I continued reading I was sucked in and finished it all in one day. I loved the creativity of it, and the unique variety of different characters. This book was such an encouragement and so uplifting to read through. It was also a story richly told and intricately woven in a way that was... well... magical. I loved how Lorilyn Roberts built her story around the Bible in such a unique way, and the skill she used to make it come to life for Shale and the readers.
Shale was a little hard to swallow at first, just because she had the adolescent attitude problems that most teenagers have. The height of it was the way she treated the poor donkey at first, but she grew on me quickly and I found myself excited to see how she would keep growing throughout the book.
The story was clean and fun, and it made me constantly think of the Chronicles of Narnia series (which I loved!!). I would recommend this book to anyone! It was a true delight to read, and I'm glad I picked it up. I'll be looking forward to the next couple of books in this series.
Happy reading!
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