Fiction Addict

Genre: Fiction

Publisher: Howard Books

Publication Date: September 2009

Jake Chism’s Review:

Athol Dickson has given us such a rich and complex tale that any meager plot synopsis on my part wouldn’t do this novel justice. This story is simply too good to be described in such a way, and should only be experienced through your own eyes. Dickson’s previous works have awed fans and critics alike with his deft prose, endearing characters, and just the right doses of the supernatural. Lost Mission gives us all that and more, making this a must read for any true fiction aficionado.

Very few are able to heighten the reading experience as well as Athol Dickson. Usually I want to speed through a novel at light speed longing to know how it all will end. As with Dickson’s previous works, Lost Mission caused me to slow down and enjoy every savory bite of this gripping journey. When I arrived at the end I was left feeling like I’d taken part in an epic voyage that had completely consumed my imagination.

Athol Dickson is a breath of fresh air in a market that is often saturated by manufactured plots, spurious characters, and inauthentic spiritual conversions. Lost Mission is redemptive storytelling at its highest level and once again Dickson proves that he is a true master of the craft.

Tim George’s Review:

Lost Mission is vintage Athol Dickson. In his new release, the ultimate storyteller invites us to join him as he spins a tale of grand visions and dismal failures. Four people, sensing a compulsion to do something great for God, learn greatness is not something God calls any of us to; transparency and faithfulness are.

Our story begins with a Benedictine priest in the late 1700’s and his quest to do a work for God in the new world of California. As his life nears its end in seeming abject failure the priest creates an object of devotion that will remain locked away for 250 years. Thus, in modern day Mexico, a woman of deep faith is given the object to carry with her on her quest to tell all those in America about her Savior. Lupe’s wanderings bring her into contact with a young seminary graduate seeking his own vision in the Arizona desert and a billionaire convinced of his own righteousness and faithfulness to God.

The twist in Lost Mission is in identifying the heroes and villains. Lupe’ is the purest of the four but even she has to enter the States illegally to pursue her vision. The billionaire seems the worst but he is driven by grief more than hatred. The seminary graduate is willing to forsake all to follow his vision yet becomes a thief to fulfill it. It is in the priest’s burden, as Lupe calls the object she carries, that we discover the true nature of these four people. Be forewarned, if you allow yourself to peer into the burden Lupe’ carries you will see yourself as well. I did.

Lost Mission is reminiscent of Dickson’s earlier work, River Rising. The prose is powerful and the story has depth. This is a parable told on a grand scale yet with intensely personal implications. Every chapter begins with events that led to the demise of a Spanish mission in 1767 but quickly segues to the lives of the three modern day believers. Dickson’s method of scene shifting is unique. Though it may take a few chapters to grow accustomed to it, you will soon see the power of his method.

If you’re planning on a quick afternoon read, this is not the book for you. Some novels are like freeways. When you need to get somewhere in a hurry, they are the way to go. Dickson’s works are more like an old state highway that passes through every little town along the way. Here you see and experience all the great characters and places you would have missed had you not come this way. Believe me it’s a trip worth the time.