I couldn’t be more excited about the re-release of Lisa McKay’s stellar novel, My Hands Came Away Red. Forgive the pun, but it’s hands down one of my most beloved books, and one you simply must read! Released a decade ago, this story has lost none of its relevance or appeal and I’m honoured to be sharing it with you once more, with a fabulous new cover. Lisa’s talent is exceptional and her story fascinating, so be sure to check back soon for an exclusive interview, some very exciting news, and giveaways.

Written for a YA audience, but equally relevant and gripping for any reader of great fiction, let me share why I love this story!

*****

This story is…well, check out the fabulous new cover and my review from when it was first published. My views remain unchanged – this story is a MUST READ!

My take:~

“It would be nice if my main motivation had been sharing the love of Jesus, or at least helping the poor…”

Frustrated by pressure she feels from her former boyfriend and confused about her future direction, Cori jumps at the chance to participate in a missions trip to Indonesia.

Boot camp introduces Cori to her team mates, Kyle, Elissa, Mark, Brendan and Drew and leaves her exhausted and blistered and yet unprepared for the horrifying reality the team faces when a conflict between Muslim and Christian villagers destroys the newly constructed church and decimates the village.

Led by young villager Mani, grieving the slaughter of his parents, the team escapes into the treacherous Indonesian jungle with fear, anxiety and despair lacerating their faith in each other and God.

To say I was blown away by the intensity and power of Lisa McKay’s debut novel is an understatement! Cori’s voice is clear and emotive and her internal struggles throughout the entirety of the book bespoke a genuineness of character rarely found. Lisa beautifully described the village and drew me in to the looming tragedy with stunning prose. I experienced the heart pounding fear and desperation of her characters to such an extent that I had to put the book down to give my heart a rest! It was only for a minute however as the fate of the village and the team held me captive.

While most of the characters are in their late teens this book’s appeal extends far beyond readers of the same age. Lisa has drawn characters with exceptional depth and accuracy and handles issues of God’s sovereignty in the midst of human tragedy without trite or pat answers. The authority and realism Lisa’s career of providing psychological and spiritual support to aid workers, gives authority and realism to a story that is second to none. Cori’s journey, through emotional and physical turmoil is not to be missed.

I have no hesitation in stating that My Hands Came Away Red is the finest book I have read this year (2007) and I hope it is the first of many from this Australian author.

In 2018, My Hands Came Away Red remains one of the finest books I have read…ever!

Relz Reviewz Extras
All Things McKay @ Relz Reviewz
Visit Lisa’s website and blog
Buy at Amazon: My Hands Came Away Red or Koorong