5 Christian Books That Wreck You, Heal You, and Take You to Other Worlds
As a Spanish-speaking, Dominican-born girl, I have a deep, justified soft spot for books that beautifully expose other cultures. If you're looking for feel-good Christian books, this ain’t the list. But if you're craving intellectually engaging reads that don't sacrifice emotion, passion, and a hint of sarcasm, then you’re most welcomed.
All my recs here are Christian fiction except for one. And that’s because that nonfiction book is better than fresh bread.
No. 5
Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus by Nabeel Qureshi
Why start with a Christian nonfiction book? Because this one will completely challenge your so-called devotion to Jesus. Think you’re devout? Hah, think again. Prepare to squirm, question everything, and maybe even cry.
If you’re a Christian and have even a flicker of interest in understanding our Muslim friends, you need to read this book. If not, read it anyway.
It’s one of the most mind-opening, soul-piercing, and utterly fascinating life stories I’ve ever read. His unexpected journey from devout Muslim to Christian is both heartbreaking and inspirational.
I’ve read it twice already. TWICE. And I’d read it again without hesitation.
Want me to break your heart? Nabeel passed away from cancer and honestly, I still can’t get over it.
No. 4
Chosen People by Robert Whitlow
There was a point in my life when I was absolutely obsessed with understanding the incredibly complicated situation in Israel. This book was the answered prayer I didn’t even know I needed. My husband gifted it to me for Christmas 2023, and I read it in two days. TWO DAYS.
You know those books that make you feel like the smartest person in the room as soon as you finish reading them? This is one of those books.
It blends Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Agnosticism in a succinctly developed plot that unfolds so beautifully, dedicating just the right amount of time and care to each major milestone.
It’s simple, yet totally captivating. A magistral literary piece when it comes to international law, political nuance (and, yes, love). AND it’s not your typical, subpar, predictable thriller. Nor is it some sappy, clichéd romantic novel. It’s so much better.
This book is packed with good stuff. Like layers of it. If you’re looking for a complex, gripping, essential read for a long weekend, this is it.
No. 3
In Feast or Famine by Mesu Andrews
One of the GOATs of biblical fiction is Mesu Andrews. I absolutely admire her. Every single one of her books strikes that perfect balance between meticulous research, playful storytelling, gripping drama, imaginative fiction, and solid facts. Her writing flows so naturally. It’s fast-paced and meditative, intriguing and captivating. Simply exquisite.
But THIS book? This book has GOT to be one of the most infuriating things I’ve ever read in my short-lived life. Seriously. UGH. Just remembering the plot makes me want to pull my hair out. And that’s exactly why you’re going to love it.
It’s all about cowardice versus courage. Trust versus manipulation. Love versus convenience. Leadership versus scheming. It’s got the drama. It’s got those head-slapping, scream-at-the-main-character moments where you say, “CAN YOU JUST STOP?!” And yet, it’s so layered and so well-done that you’ll treasure every maddening page.
We’re still living in the shadow of goddess-based religions—this ain’t anything new. But if you want to be transported to ancient Egypt and see Joseph ben Jacob in a completely fresh and delightfully unexpected way, then this is the book for you.
Trust me, you’ll love it (and maybe hate it… a bit).
No. 2
And The Shofar Blew by Francine Rivers
No self-respecting Christian fiction list is complete without Mama Francine getting her rightful mention. Honor to whom honor is due.
Francine Rivers has this uncanny way of making you feel all the emotions at once. Anger, heartbreak, more anger, disappointment, and then (finally!) hope. She’s so gifted at exposing just how flawed people can be, even in the church. This is one of those "I hate it because it’s too good" books.
And The Shofar Blew hits hard. It’s raw, it’s real, and unapologetically digs into the cracks of faith and leadership. And let’s be honest—there are so many cracks.
This book shows, loud and clear, the problem with American Christianity. Yes, I said it: I culturized Christianity. That alone could fill 50 books and 120 podcast episodes. The state of the American Church (not all of them, but most of them) is so depraved that it’s disgusting. It really is. But this isn’t the blog for that rant.
Get this book if you want to be angry and want to start praying differently.
No. 1
No One Ever Asked By Katie Ganshert
I already did a review about this book. So I’ll just link it here for you. Seriously, this book is my top 1 in ALL my lists! (Well, except for biblical fiction, that is). This book is hard. This is a hard read, right here. It hits you real hard. If you’re not shaken after reading this book, do you even have a soul at all?
