Disclosure: I received this book for review.  Post contains affiliate links; if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission. Opinions shared are mine.

A few years ago, there was such a buzz over the book Heaven is for Real.  I also read Don Piper’s 90 Minutes in Heaven.  Both stories were profoundly inspiring.  So much controversy rests on the subject of the afterlife, and it’s interesting to read different accounts of people’s experiences.  Bill Weise has quite a different story to share, though, in his book 23 Minutes in Hell.

This copy is the 10th anniversary edition. Since I didn’t read the original version, I don’t know what constitutes the difference.  Weise based his book on a vision he had in the middle of the night. He was not ill or on his deathbed.  In fact, he was standing in his home at the time of the vision.

While many people will certainly remain skeptical, there are several aspects of this book that help me believe in Weise’s genuine account.  First, he supports his experience with vast amounts of scripture.  From descriptions of the demons to the separate areas of hell, Weise found biblical evidence to support his testimony.  Additionally, he uses outside resources to corroborate his story.  Finally, his story has compelled many people to come forward with their own experiences.  I found it frustrating that Weise was sometimes vague in his details, but in other cases he provided a comprehensive list of sources used. 23 Minutes in Hell is easily readable, and short enough that you could finish it in one day.

The reader will surely understand that this book is meant as a warning.  Weise continually asks the reader to consider the story as a cautionary tale.  Therefore, I challenge you to read this book with an open mind.  What does Weise have to gain from his experience?  I’m sure it would be frustrating and terrifying to relive such a devastating vision over and over, but to also have it questioned by his peers….it’s a risk he was willing to take in order to spread the message of salvation. It’s a strong message about the Christian faith.

So whether you believe in heaven and hell, Christianity, or you’re just curious about the story, check out the book 23 Minutes in Hell.

Thanks to the publisher for offering me a copy of this book.