Non-fiction Review: The Devil in Pew Number Seven

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The Devil in Pew Number Seven by Rebecca Nichols Alonzo is the true story about a pastor’s family who was threatened by a man who went to their church. His threats were carried out over a period of several years. There were bombs, phone threats, and death. As you’ve guessed by the title, the evil man behind it all sat every Sunday in church, in the seventh pew. He would disrupt the services and do everything in his power to scare the pastor and his family away.

But, he didn’t understand the pastor and his wife. And, he didn’t understand the grace of God.

Painstakingly, Rebecca tells the story as it was recorded and remembered. She remembers some details herself, although she was very young when it happened.

This is one of those blow-you-away books. Not only is the horribleness of the story compelling and well-written, but after Rebecca has told her story, she tells the rest of the story—years later. She ends with a precious section about biblical forgiveness after unspeakable pain.

Another thing I loved about this was the biblical mindset of both parents that they'd already instilled in their seven-year-old daughter.

I want you to read this, so I don’t want to reveal any more than I already have.

This book is definitely five stars.

I heartily recommend it to any teen and adult. The Devil in Pew Number Seven would be a fabulous book for discussion in a Christian book club, youth group, or ladies class.