Step into the thrilling world of Forbidden Doors, where teenage siblings Becka and Scott Williams tackle occult dangers with faith and courage! Written by Bill Myers, this Christian fiction series blends fast-paced adventure with spiritual warfare, offering young readers a gripping mix of suspense, life lessons, and the power of prayer. Set in California, it’s a unique journey that resonates with teens and adults alike.
From Ouija boards to voodoo rituals, Forbidden Doors dives into the unseen battles of good versus evil, making it a standout in young adult Christian literature. Ready to explore a series that’s as thought-provoking as it is exciting? Let’s dive in!
How Forbidden Doors Began
Bill Myers, a bestselling author and filmmaker, created Forbidden Doors in the early 1990s, inspired by his desire to address the growing fascination with the occult among youth. With a background in Christian storytelling (he co-created McGee and Me!), Myers crafted a series that combined suspenseful narratives with biblical truths. Published by Zondervan, Forbidden Doors aimed to equip teens to navigate spiritual challenges through faith, earning praise for its bold approach.
Myers’ meticulous research into occult practices and his knack for realistic characters gave the series authenticity. His goal? To show that faith could triumph over darkness, all while keeping readers hooked with page-turning plots. The result was a series that sold nearly 500,000 copies and won a C.S. Lewis Honor Award.
The Heart of Forbidden Doors
The Forbidden Doors series spans 12 books, grouped into four volumes, each tackling a different ‘forbidden door’—occult practices promising enlightenment but delivering danger. In The Society (Book 1), Becka and Scott move to Crescent Bay, California, and face a group of students using Ouija boards for occult rituals. Their Christian faith makes them targets, leading to a chilling showdown. The Deceived (Book 2) sees Becka hypnotized by a speaker on reincarnation, testing her beliefs. The Spell (Book 3) escalates with the Society’s revenge campaign of curses against Becka, while The Haunting (Book 4) pits the siblings against a supposed ghost in a demon-filled mansion.
The series’ themes—spiritual warfare, the power of prayer, and standing firm in faith—shine through its California setting, where everyday teen life meets supernatural threats. Myers’ style is fast-paced, blending humor, romance, and suspense with clear Christian messages. Readers follow Becka, the cautious older sister, and Scott, the bold younger brother, as they grow in courage and wisdom, guided by their friend Ryan Riordan and the mysterious online mentor, Z.
Each book delivers a moral lesson, from the dangers of dabbling in the occult to the importance of forgiveness and love. The realistic portrayal of teen struggles—fitting in, dealing with loss, and facing peer pressure—makes the series relatable, while its supernatural elements keep the stakes high.
Why Forbidden Doors Resonates
Forbidden Doors struck a chord with Christian teens and parents in the 1990s, offering a countercultural narrative when supernatural themes flooded pop culture. Its blend of entertainment and education empowered young readers to recognize and resist occult influences, earning endorsements from figures like C. Peter Wagner, who called it ‘spiritual equipment’ for youth. Fans on Goodreads praise its suspense and faith-driven plots, though some note its preachy tone may not suit all readers.
Today, the series remains a niche gem, appealing to those seeking faith-based adventures. Its timeless message—that faith can overcome darkness—continues to inspire, making it a compelling read for anyone curious about spiritual warfare or Christian fiction.
- First Published: 1994
- Number of Books: 12
- Award: C.S. Lewis Honor Award
- Copies Sold: Nearly 500,000
Grab The Society and dive into Forbidden Doors’ thrilling world of faith and adventure! Whether you’re a teen or just young at heart, Becka and Scott’s journey will keep you turning pages and reflecting on the power of belief.