James E Reese’s Jonah’s Queer Journey into the Magical Realm of Believing is the story of Jonah Laidley, living in a society that dictates what he should believe, including his identity. Jonah is no longer a frightened teenager when he discovers a Renaissance painting that stirs desires he doesn’t understand, especially for Eden, Jonah's boyhood friend. Jonah is bullied by Tucker, his parents force him to undergo conversion therapy, and he is almost drowned by Reverend Learne in a “baptism” at Sinner’s Lake. As if these disturbing events were not already enough for a young man, a white supremacist gang abducts him, but his rescue by Miguel, a lifeguard with green eyes who has haunted his visions, initiates a new awakening. Can he ever be free to think his own thoughts and choose who to be?

James E Reese’s mesmerizing story will engage fans of queer stories with LGBTQ themes. The style of the narrative reflects the turmoil in the mind and soul of young Jonah. It can be read as a coming-of-age story or a journey of self-exploration. The author uses a fractured, hallucinatory style that blends the gritty elements of Southern Gothic with magical realism, with time slips and spectral visitations that externalize the trauma of a queer youth. Jonah’s Queer Journey into the Magical Realm of Believing has a lot that I appreciated, but the author’s use of symbolism stood out for me. This book has complex characters, a complex plot, and a uniquely compelling exploration of identity.

Jonah’s Queer Journey into the Magical Realm of Believing by author James E. Reese follows Jonah, who lives in a very religious environment where people think his sexuality needs to be fixed. Meanwhile, Jonah is struggling with a heavy burden; he is carrying the weight of shame, fear, and isolation. He is also trying to survive school and people's expectations, while facing the threat of conversion therapy and the influence of Reverend Learne. The narrative becomes much bigger as Jonah is drawn into several dangerous events surrounding Sinner’s Lake. He encounters unexpected friendships, painful betrayals, family secrets, and spiritual visions. He even begins to question his faith, identity, and self-worth. But ultimately, he must decide whether or not to embrace others' expectations of who he truly is.

Jonah’s journey and struggles are deeply explored. Author James E. Reese brings out Jonah’s struggle to accept himself. The author did a great job of highlighting how religion, bullying, guilt, and family pressure shaped Jonah. There were suspenseful moments and frightening encounters in some scenes. The development of some of the other characters was worth noting. I loved how the deeper, painful layers and personal conflict were uncovered. Jonah’s mother was important, especially as the conversations revealed her past. I also appreciated how the story examined damage caused by religious extremism. Readers who appreciated TJ Klune’s The House in the Cerulean Sea would most appreciate Jonah’s Queer Journey into the Magical Realm of Believing.