Review of THE REMAINING Novelization by Travis Thrasher

The Remaining is a new movie that uniquely ties together faith and horror. Though I haven't seen the movie (I will when it releases to DVD), I did get to read Travis Thrasher's novelization of the movie. If Thrasher's handling of the story is any indication, and I'm sure it is, the movie is probably really good. However, given the style of writing and storytelling I've grown used to in a Thrasher novel, I have a feeling that the book tells the story in a way that the movie will lack.

For example, one of the characteristics of Travis Thrasher's writing that I enjoy the most is his characterization. The novel gives us a deep look into several of the characters, including what they're feeling in the midst of the madness they find themselves in and what motivates them. Thrasher makes you feel like you know the characters.

Then there's the situation itself. The end of the world has begun and demons have been released to do what they will on the earth. This book takes a different approach to the Rapture concept that has been made popular by the Left Behind series. Instead of Christians disappearing from the earth, their spirits leave their deceased bodies behind, which makes the story much more creepy. The majority of the story takes place as a group of survivors huddle together in a church with a pastor who discovers that his claimed belief in Jesus had always been a sham.

This is novel of darkness and evil, yet these are only the backdrop for a brighter story of light and redemption. Travis Thrasher's telling of this story is both intense and at times fun throughout. Having become a Thrasher fan after reading one of his horror-centered novels, this was a welcome return to the type of storytelling I enjoy most from him. Whether you've seen the movie or not, this book is an emotional thrill-ride from beginning to end.

Review copy provided by the Tyndale Blog Network