The First Escape is published by Salt River, an imprint of Tyndale – the prominent Christian publishing house. While printed under a faith based imprint, and sold on the Christian retail circuit, any references to faith are glancing and inconclusive, though it is difficult to determine which path the story will take in future volumes.
In my opinion Taylor takes cultural relevance too far. Murder schemes, mad magicians, séances and a cast of creepy characters contribute to the eerie, otherworldly story that has more in common with Lemony Snicket than it does most Christian fiction for teenagers. Due to the edgy and questionable content matter some parents may decide to pass on this title for their children. However, with the marked popularity of A Series of Unfortunate Events, The Dopple Ganger Chronicles will likely find a wide readership. Based upon this first installment, our family will not be among them.
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