DALLAS, Texas, March 10, 2014 – “Messages from Estillyen” is unlike any novel available on the market today. In it, author William Jefferson addresses God’s messaging of redemption throughout the ages, from a vantage point that drives fresh perspective to the very marrow of human worth.

“Messages from Estillyen” received a coveted starred review from BlueInk Reviews, which says in part, “The author’s writing is skilled, poetic, and reminiscent of the classical period.

“This is a book to savor, not to gulp,” BlueInk contends. “The novel will appeal to readers who appreciate British wit, the skill of a true wordsmith, and the challenge of metaphysical introspection. Christian readers will be especially delighted by the creative way the author brings the Bible to life.”

The fictional characterization of Lucifer plays a major role in the novel and harkens back to the timeless writings of Dante, Milton, and C.S. Lewis. Jefferson depicts Lucifer as an omnipresent, evil predator that harbors unrelenting angst against God and his creation. Lucifer is especially distraught and anguished over the existence of the human race, which he refers to as “fleshies,” nothing but “mud cakes,” “the unfortunate by-product of I AM.”

Through the author’s creative portrayal of Lucifer, juxtaposed against selected Scripture narratives (presented as dramatic readings given by fictional monks on the Isle of Estillyen), Jefferson has managed to offer a fascinating perspective on the subject of redemption and human worth.

Barbara Bamberger Scott, writing for ForeWord Reviews, said “Jefferson uses carefully modulated language that often waxes poetic: “In the shadows between Scripture’s lines is God’s face. Like a full-faced moon on a meadow’s pond, it shimmers there.” He also seems to recognize that some readers need their religious edification spiced with dashes of intrigue, love, and inspiration.

Surprisingly, Jefferson did not originally intend to write a novel. After a career of guiding communication and program initiatives for faith-based organizations, including The American Bible Society and the Billy Graham Evangelical Association, he wanted to write about the message and medium of redemption. He originally intended to write a short theological book, but along the way he realized there was a greater story to be told.

The voice that emerged through Jefferson’s writings seemed to belong to a different era and a unique setting. He began to envision a place of reflection and discussion overseen by an order of monks grappling with the same messages. Jefferson’s nonfiction, theological treatise was soon being delivered through a fictional story line.

Imaginatively, Jefferson discovered the Isle of Estillyen, which he says is “sort of off Scotland somewhere, but quite accessible to anyone who wishes to journey there via the novel.” Through the characters of “Messages from Estillyen,” Jefferson maintains he’s been able to say far more than he could ever hope to have said without them.

The story that unfolds through “Messages from Estillyen” centers around Hollie and Goodwin MacBreeze, young newlyweds who travel to the Isle of Estillyen in search of meaning and the call of destiny. To their utter surprise, they encounter a world full of hope and timeless truths, but one not lacking in gripping drama and pain.

Through mysterious circumstances, the couple encounters a lonely, embittered soul named Oban Ironbout. The MacBreezes perceive, however, that Oban Ironbout is not beyond redemption, despite his defiance and self acclaimed sense of loss. The relationship that unfolds between the three is both riveting and heartwarming, drawing in the whole of Estillyen’s isle.

“Messages from Estillyen” is available for purchase at Barnes & Noble and Amazon. For more information, please visit www.estillyen.com. A free chapter is available for download at http://www.estillyen.com/messages-from-estillyen-chapter-one-lunch-at-grims-park/.

– 30 –

Note to Editors: For a review copy of “Messages from Estillyen” or an interview with William Jefferson, please contact Katie Martin of A. Larry Ross Communications at 972.267.1111 or [email protected].