First Book #NetGalley Book Review: The Possibility of America by David Dark

I liked the title and the premise but was disappointed.
The Possibility of America
How the Gospel Can Mend Our God-Blessed,
God-Forsaken Land
by David Dark


File Size: 1992 KB
Print Length: 188 pages
Publisher: Westminster John Knox Press (April 9, 2019)
ASIN: B07QCW2DD6
Genre: Religious Studies, Social Issues
My Rating: 3.0 of 5.0.

Published in the years following 9/11, David Dark’s book The Gospel according to America warned American Christianity about the false worship that conflates love of country with love of God. It delved deeply into the political divide that had gripped the country and the cultural captivity into which so many American churches had fallen.

In our current political season, the problems Dark identified have blossomed. The assessment he brought to these problems and the creative resources for resisting them are now more important than ever. Into this new political landscape and expanding on the analysis of The Gospel according to America, Dark offers The Possibility of America: How the Gospel Can Mend Our God-Blessed, God-Forsaken Land. Dark expands his vision of a fractured yet redeemable American Christianity, bringing his signature mix of theological, cultural, and political analysis to white supremacy, evangelical surrender, and other problems of the Trump era.

Review:
My understanding of a good essay, or a nonfiction book directed to a stated point, is that you introduce your thesis, your share your arguments and then you wrap up your points with a conclusion. Sadly, in my opinion, this book failed in all three elements. If the subtitle was the point or goal of this book it did not succeed in presenting that premise clearly although it meandered around the topic.

I found this work to be esoteric and full of lengthy, confusing sentences. It reminded me of the saying that someone is “so heavenly minded they are no earthly good.” He challenges “truth” as presented by the news, stating (in a 52-word sentence) that “… it’s as if our ability to see and think clearly is constantly compromised by an endless diversion from the facts on the ground.”  I may well agree with that statement, but I didn’t find where he gives a solution or suggestion to overcome this. (My solution is to watch at least two versions of the news and often read articles on topics trying to pick out the actual facts.) Mr. Dark also states: “Politics is how we govern ourselves. It’s the way we conduct our lives.” I do not agree with this generalization. There is certainly an element of the American public that fall under this statement, but many do not. Particularly I would argue that the lives of true Christ-followers are not governed by politics.

The author quickly (and repeatedly) slips into sharing bias, bitterness and convoluted statements that I found inappropriate for a book purporting to want to foster the Gospel. There are several comments bashing American founders, President Trump, and even evangelicals as “white supremacists”. He states that “evangelical” in America might be “so definitively thought to refer to a sleeper cell of the Republican Party and thereby to be tied to the ideology of white supremacy and climate denial that to say it aloud is to court misunderstanding.” I can’t agree more that such statements “court misunderstanding”. I can sense that not only many Republicans would find this implied generalization offensive, but I think it is even more offensive to American evangelists whom I think would be part of the book’s intended audience. At 62% in the book, Mr. Dark, while discussing one of his author icons, Toni Morrison, states: “True witness knows no division. Labels be damned.” And oh, how I wished Mr. Dark had left labeling out of his ‘effusion’ (a more fitting description than ‘treatise”).

If a reader pushes through the confusion of the first 30% of the work, the reader will find a rather interesting discussion of classic literature, science fiction authors, movies and musicians. There is a detailed discussion of moral and religious issues presented in Moby Dick and The Scarlet Letter. Mr. Dark also discusses like themes from many authors including Shakespeare (Macbeth), John Milton, Ursula K. Le Guin, Kurt Vonnegut, George Orwell, William Faulkner (As I Lay Dying), Octavia E. Butler (Kindred), Thomas Pynchon (Gravity's Rainbow), Phillip K. Dick and more. On the music exploration, Mr. Dark includes comments on Bob Dylan, Sly and the Family Stone, Bambara, Aretha Franklin, Woody Guthrie, Kris Kristofferson, Pixies, Patti Smith, Chance the Rapper and others. Movies that get some discussion include The Body Snatchers, The Day the Earth Stood Still, Patch Adams, Sunset Boulevard and Mulholland Drive. TV series mentioned include Rod Serling’s Twilight Zone and even The Simpsons.

I did find some nuggets (maybe 5) buried in the slog. Mr. Dark laments that “…our capacity for right worship and right listening for functioning democracy is compromised” due to the loss of willingness or ability “to hear, read, or listen to any version of history that can’t be contained in a sound bite or a put down…”. (Another 50-word sentence.) He notes that we need “the skills to understand and locate ourselves…” but he doesn’t give any reason for the loss or a recommendation to change it. I would suggest that we have a crisis in educating our children in history, civics, and morality. I would question why college students are quick to shut down or protest presentations and open dialogue with those of different views.

The book is peppered with references to The Beloved Community which I believe the author intends to be the basis for the “possibility” of America. He doesn't make this clear. About 77% into the book, in Chapter Seven, Mr. Dark discusses the Catholic Worker Movement and finally shares some thoughts on how the underlying Christian directive to “love they neighbor” would change the atmosphere of America.

I chose this as my First Book for 2020. Sadly, I was disappointed. I would recommend the book to those who might enjoy the literature discussions as long as the reader isn’t looking (like I was) for a work to support the subtitle.

SOURCE: 2019 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2020NetGalley, 2020Alphabet and 2020TBR goals.

Book Review: Know Your Bible by Paul Kent

This is a keeper resource for my shelf.
Know Your Bible: All 66 Books Explained and Applied
By: Paul Kent

Amazon Link
File Size: 342 KB
Print Length: 99 pages
Publisher: Barbour Books (February 1, 2008)
Publication Date: November 10, 2010
ASIN: B004D9FUA4
Genre: Christian, Inspirational, Religious
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Product Description
Know Your Bible is a concise, easy-to-understand guide to God's Word-giving you a helpful and memorable overview of all 66 books. For each Know Your Bible provides data on the author and time frame, a ten-word synopsis, a longer (50-100 word) summary, thoughts on what makes the book unique or unusual, a listing of key verses, and a "So, What?" section of practical application. It's a fantastic resource for individuals and ministries! Quotations are in NIV, ASV, and KJV.

Review:
I have studied the Bible and even led a study group on The Bible Through a Year – which took two years to finish. This little booklet provides a great summary for each book. It starts by identifying the author and the date written. The book is encapsulated in 10 words or less, then a detailed paragraph summarizes the book. Key quotes are shared, and a uniqueness of the book. The final section is “So What” which notes why the book is important.

I liked the concise format and I highlighted several pages. This is a great resource for new believers as well as mature believers to keep and use now and again. I recommend this as a wonderful resource tool for those who like to study the Bible.

Source: Kindle Library from 2012; 2017 Purchase at CBD for Ladies Book Club. Qualifies for 2018TBR and Alphabet Challenges.

Book Review: The Christmas Code by O. S. Hawkin

This is a nice little Advent devotional book.
The Christmas Code Booklet
by O. S. Hawkin

Paperback: 64 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (September 5, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1400309247
Genre: Devotional, Inspirational, Religious
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

The holidays can be a busy time! Keep your heart and mind focused on Jesus with this Advent devotional. Hawkins offers 25 seasonal entries tracing the story of Jesus from its earliest roots in the Old Testament to God's gift of salvation. Each entry features a Scripture passage, inspirational thought, "code word," and prayer of reflection. 64 pages, softcover from Nelson.

Review:
I gifted this little devotional to my Ladies’ Book Club, and a few friends, as our December reading choice. We so often get caught up in the rush and busyness of the holiday season that I thought this would help us focus on the ‘reason for the season’.

This is pocket size and I carried mine with me in my purse and sometimes in my briefcase to read if I had to wait for a hearing. I liked the way it was set out with a ‘code’ word for each day.
There is a scripture verse, a devotion, a code word with description and then a short sentence prayer.

All of the ladies indicated they appreciated the quick and meaningful devotions. I encourage believers to pick this up or another advent devotional to help prepare their hearts during the Christmas season.

I picked this up on sale for my book club as Advent reading for December.

Book Review: Kristian's War by Peter Wisan

I liked this post-apocalyptic, Biblical allegory.
Kristian's War (The Searcher Series Book 1)
by Peter Wisan

File Size: 428 KB
Print Length: 202 pages
Publication Date: August 21, 2017
ASIN: B072TRNKHW
Genre: Religious, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Kristian Anders, a dirt-poor farmer, lives in a land where evil forces take the form of men. The sins of his past weigh heavily on his mind. When a stranger directs him to take a new path, Kristian begins the journey of a lifetime towards a distant King who is rumored to solve all problems. But then a ruthless soldier is dispatched by the ruler of the dark land to capture or kill Kristian. Everything leads to one final fight, where Kristian must defeat the demons of his past or die.

Marine Corps veteran Peter Wisan delivers a gripping, tactical take on the spiritual journey in a blend of heart-stopping action and heart-rending loss. Order a copy now…if you have what it takes to join, KRISTIAN’S WAR.

Review:
Kristian lives with his estranged and injured wife, Christi. Christi is in wheelchair, is very bitter and blames Kristian for her condition. The society they live in is restrictive and evil. A neighbor, John Dappler, who is always looking at a new health fad runs, through his farm and hands Kristian a wrapped book that he must hide. John is captured by Sergeant Major Shame and sentenced to death.

Shortly after the execution, an imposing stranger approaches Kris and offers to show him how to reach a distant King who can bring peace and love back to his live. Although it is forbidden to go beyond their home territory, Kristian decides to take the risk to make the dangerous journey to find the King. Evan tells Kristian that he will meet up with him soon, but that Kristian must stay on the straight path even when things or people try to knock him off.

Kristian sets off from Comfort County to the Land of Genuine Experience with a friend who does not last. Along the way, Kristian comes upon forks in the road and faces obstacles such as Discourage, Staff Sergeant Past and others. He also gets help from Grace, Pastor and his daughters, Hope and Faith. The journey is full of danger as Staff Sergeant Past pursues him relentlessly.

While Kristian struggles along his journey the author shares manipulation that is influencing his wife Christi at home. About 75% in the author reveals the events that crippled Christi.

As I began to recognize the allegory this story made me think of Pilgrim’s Progress. Here there is a realistic military force and battle that Kristian must escape. The story line and action moved the story along at a quick pace. I found this entertaining and I found myself shaking my head and smiling at different stages. I recommend this to readers who would enjoy a Biblical allegory.

I received this title from the author through a Goodreads ARC group. I am glad I had the opportunity to read it.

Audible Book Review: Cloak of the Light by Chuck Black

This is an engaging Christian story full of strong action.
Cloak of the Light
Wars of the Realm, Book 1
By: Chuck Black
Narrated by: Michael Orenstein, Katie Leigh

Series: Wars of the Realm, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 25 mins
Unabridged
Release date: 03-21-16
Language: English
Publisher: christianaudio.com
Genre: Action and Adventure, Religious, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Drew is caught in a world of light - just inches away from the dark.
What if...there was a world beyond our vision, a world just fingertips beyond our reach? What if...our world wasn't beyond their influence?
Tragedy and heartache seem to be waiting for Drew Carter at every turn, but college offers Drew a chance to start over - until an accident during a physics experiment leaves him blind and his genius friend, Benjamin Berg, missing.
As his sight miraculously returns, Drew discovers that the accident has heightened his neuron activity, giving him skills and sight beyond the normal man. When he begins to observe fierce invaders that no one else can see, he questions his own sanity, and so do others. But is he insane or do the invaders truly exist?
With help from Sydney Carlyle, a mysterious and elusive girl who offers encouragement through her faith, Drew searches for his missing friend, Ben, who seems to hold the key to unlocking this mystery. As the dark invaders close in, will he find the truth in time?
©2016 eChristian (P)2016 eChristian

Review:
Drew has had no church or religious training but he received a sense of honor through the military commitment of his father. Drew was 12 when his father died. His father’s best friend, Jake, became Drew’s mentor, training him in the arts of defense and other skills of the special services.

Drew’s mother has to move them to a new place and new high school. He befriends a science geek, Ben, in spite of opposition by some bullies. He also strikes up a tentative friendship with a reclusive, minister’s daughter, Sydney. A careless moment of high school fun leads to tragedy and Drew feels that he carries a dark cloud wherever he goes.

Drew is trying to move on in college when his friend Ben drags him into his professor’s lab to show him ‘shadow people”. Drew sees the dark man through Ben’s experiment but the lab blows up leaving Drew unconscious and Ben gone. Drew wakes in the hospital to discover his hearing and other senses are heightened but he has lost his sight. Initially Drew withdraws into his dark cloud even as Sydney and Jake try to encourage him. Surprisingly Drew’s sight returns and Drew discovers that he can see beings beyond the normal person’s sight. Although Drew finds himself in the midst of battles he doesn’t realize what he really is seeing.are not aliens but demons and angels.

I really enjoyed the engaging story and the perspective from a character who didn’t know what he was seeing. The writing moved well with plenty of action. I am definitely looking forward to more in this series.

Audio Notes: Michael Orenstein and Katie Leigh do a good job with narration. The male voice is more prevalent and he manages to convey the story from the view of a teenager. Ms. Leigh also adds to the performance with strong accents for the female characters. I enjoyed the background sounds and music of the performance although it took a little getting used to. It made the story come even more alive.

I have book two through NetGalley so I decided to listen to book one. (Audible credit purchase in May, 2017.) This qualifies for my 2017 Audiobook Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Apocalypse: The Days of Elijah, Book 1, by Mark Goodwin

This story is very engaging, Biblically based, and I want to continue the series.
Apocalypse: The Days of Elijah, Book 1
By: Mark Goodwin
Narrated by: Kevin Pierce

Series: The Days of Elijah, Book 1
Length: 6 hrs and 46 mins
Unabridged
Release date: 01-19-17
Language: English
Publisher: Goodwin America Corp.
Genre: Apocalyptic, Religious, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.50 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
After a massive wave of disappearances, 26-year-old CIA analyst Everett Carroll finally believes what he's been told about the biblical prophecy of the rapture. But will he be able to survive the gauntlet of destruction known as the Great Tribulation? Seven seals, seven trumpets, and seven vials of God's wrath are about to be poured out upon the earth, and woe to the inhabitants thereof! Global currencies have collapsed, famine and plague have claimed the lives of millions, and the world has crumbled into chaos. The only reason Everett and his girlfriend, Courtney, have survived the mayhem is because they were warned by John Jones, Everett's recently deceased boss, that all of these tragedies would occur. And what's more, through his inside knowledge at the agency, mixed with his interpretation of prophecy, Jones predicted that a world leader would ride in on a white horse to fix the ills of the planet. But who is this leader and what is his motivation for mandating the new identification implant and the global cashless currency?
Everett is surprised when he finds out that Elijah, the Messianic Jewish hermit who lives on the mountain above their retreat, did not disappear along with the rest of the Christians. When he tells Everett of a special mission that God has given him, the old prophet gives Everett more questions than answers.
This is the highly-anticipated follow-up series to the best-selling trilogy, The Days of Noah, which chronicles the economic, moral, and social collapse of the United States.
As with all books by Mark Goodwin, this book contains no profanity and no embarrassing sex scenes. However, if you're offended by conservative principles and references to scripture, this book might not be for you.
©2016 Goodwin America Corp. (P)2017 Goodwin America Corp.

Review:
Everett is a 26-year-old CIA analyst whose boss, John Jones, slowly convinced him to prepare for a collapse of society as we know it. Everett and his girlfriend, Courtney survived the collapse with the help of Jones’ advice and in the safety of the cabin Jones left to them. Another couple was sharing the responsibilities of survival preparedness and watch until one morning they disappeared… along with many other unexplained disappearances around the world.

The new government and the new world religious leader provide a strange tale of alien abductions to explain the disappearances. Even this bizarre story was predicted by Jones so Everett and Courtney are even more convinced that his conspiracies theories are more fact than fiction.

Everett and Courtney are a bit surprised to learn that the old Messianic Jewish hermit, Elijah, who lives up the hill, did not disappear with the other Christian believers. But Elijah explains he is waiting to fulfill a special mission and, in the meantime, he encourages the couple to believe and get right with God. Then God can be their biggest ally in the earthly battles.

Everett reaches out to another couple who he knows were underground resisters of the new marking and commerce system. The new couple joins them at the cabin and they begin to strategize how to acquire and store enough supplies to last the next seven years that is expected to be turmoil and oppression, especially for those who refused to accept the mark under the new government. There are dangers ranging from local thieves to government authorities when they travel to the city so that Elijah can confront one of the leaders, and finally nature itself presents its own mix of troubles in fires, landslides and earthquakes.

The “apocalypse” theme is not new but I enjoyed the characters and how the trials and disappearances played out in their lives. There is a good blend of action and theological argument. I also liked the prepper, survival elements. I enjoyed the first book in the trilogy, The Days of Noah, the series where Everett and Jones are first introduced. Although this picks up in time after the trilogy, there is a summary and enough fill in of the backstory so I didn’t feel like I missed too much. I do want to continue the story from here to keep track of the characters and their struggles to survive. I recommend this to readers who enjoy apocalyptic stories with a Biblical foundation and no foul language.

Audio Notes: Kevin Pierce does a fine job with the narration. He gives the characters distinct sounds and portrays the personalities set by the author. I really enjoyed listening to this in audio.

I selected this story with an Audible Credit in April 2017. This adds to my Audio Book Challenge.

Book Review: When the English Fall by David Williams

This is well written, insightful and engaging.

When the English Fall
by David Williams

File Size: 1687 KB
Print Length: 255 pages

Publisher: Algonquin Books (July 11, 2017)
ASIN: B01JKHTN8I
Genre: Dystopian, Religious, Science Fiction
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

A riveting and unexpected novel that questions whether a peaceful and nonviolent community can survive when civilization falls apart.
When a catastrophic solar storm brings about the collapse of modern civilization, an Amish community in Pennsylvania is caught up in the devastating aftermath. Once-bright skies are now dark. Planes have plummeted to the ground. The systems of modern life have crumbled. With their stocked larders and stores of supplies, the Amish are unaffected at first. But as the English (the Amish name for all non-Amish people) become more and more desperate, they begin to invade Amish farms, taking whatever they want and unleashing unthinkable violence on the peaceable community.
Seen through the diary of an Amish farmer named Jacob as he tries to protect his family and his way of life, When the English Fall examines the idea of peace in the face of deadly chaos: Should members of a nonviolent society defy their beliefs and take up arms to defend themselves? And if they don’t, can they survive?
David Williams’s debut novel is a thoroughly engrossing look into the closed world of the Amish, as well as a thought-provoking examination of “civilization” and what remains if the center cannot hold.

Review:
I was immediately drawn to this when I noted the genre and blurb. I have been reading a lot of post-apocalyptic stories and find some are more realistic than others. This one could happen and is different because of the setting and characters.

This story is told in the form of diaries found on an Amish farm outside of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Jacob, the father of the family, shares of the struggle his family has been experiencing. Their 14-year-old daughter, Sadie, has been suffering from seizures, mostly nightmares, but not always at night. Sadie doesn’t understand either but she thinks she has had a strange premonition ability, knowing things before they actually happen. During her trance episodes, she has been muttering “they fall, they fall” and speaking of “Jimmy” although there is no Jimmy in the community.

Jacob’s diaries reflect how the people of the Order “are never really apart, as much as we choose to set ourselves different from the world that surrounds us.” He explains how the Amish people live simple lives, focusing on their faith and trust in God. They avoid many modern conveniences, such as televisions and phones and most equipment that relies on electricity. They use horses and buggies or wagons rather than vehicles and they farm using mostly older, nonmechanical equipment.

A night comes when there are flashing lights in the sky and Sadie notes that “they fall”, like angels falling. A young man rides from farm to farm delivering news. The word spreads that a solar flare has occurred which has taken out the power grid that the “Englishers”, as they call those not of the Order, rely on. At first there is no immediate impact on the Amish communities but it isn't long before the military arrives to take food to the nearby towns.

All too soon the looting and violence of the English towns begins to encroach into the peaceful community. How will the pacifist people respond to the theft and violence? How do they protect themselves? I really like how David Williams handles this dilemma with beautiful writing and insight into the Amish community. It is realistic and fitting. This is a quick read and I would like to read more. I recommend this to those who are interested in the Amish people and how they might react when a disintegrating society starts to bring its ills into their territory. 

I received this from the publisher through NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge and "W" in Alphabet Soup Challenge. 

Book Review and Giveaway: As One Devil to Another by Richard Platt

This is a ‘devilishly’ engaging look at the devil’s work against believers.
As One Devil to Another: A Fiendish Correspondence in the Tradition of C. S. Lewis' The Screwtape Letters
by Richard Platt (Author), Walter Hooper (Preface)

Paperback: 208 pages
Publisher: Tyndale Momentum (April 1, 2012)
ISBN-13: 978-1414371665
Genre: Religious, Inspirational
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

See more of Richard Platt's work, including glimpses of work in progress, at RichardPlattAuthor.com.
As One Devil to Another is an astonishing debut work that C. S. Lewis's biographer and foremost Lewis authority Walter Hooper calls "a stunning achievement, the finest example of the genre of diabolical correspondence to appear since this genre was popularized by C. S. Lewis." Enter into this chilling and diabolical tale, one that reveals the very tricks and strategies of Hell. Through a series of letters between devils created by Platt, senior devil Slashreap trains his young protégé, Scardagger, to win an individual soul away from Heaven and into their clutches. As the devils plot their way to triumph, they reveal the spiritual dangers and risks we face in today's society. Their frighteningly accurate perspective on issues such as contemporary technology and sexual mores is interwoven with timeless matters such as the power of prayer, the purpose of suffering, and the promises held out by Heaven . . . and Hell. Destined to become a modern classic, As One Devil to Another is a brilliantly written, deeply unsettling perspective on twenty-first-century society . . . a glimpse of ourselves through the eyes of those who have embraced their underworldly existence.

Review:
Scardagger is a young demon chosen to train under the senior devil, Slashreap. The training is accomplished by letters written from Slashreap to Scardagger instructing him how he should deal with a young human to keep her from becoming a believer of the Adversary, God. The young woman is a college student so she is an appropriate place to have ‘liberal’, and ‘progressive’ influences. The devils can use many tools made available like television, computers and cell phones to distract the young charge from any thoughts of charity and compassion to help others with the love of Christ.

Unfortunately, the young lady has an Aunt who is a warrior of the Lord. The Aunt offers the girl a place to stay to save expenses while in school and to be there to help the Aunt who is becoming older. The young woman has also made a friend of an elderly gardener at the college who is another warrior for Christ. While sitting in the garden she meets a young man contemplating a squirrel and they begin a friendship.

Scardagger doesn’t realize how dangerous it will be for the girl to meet the gardener and to live with her Aunt and be influenced by their love and faith. Slashreap of course sends letters chastising Scardagger for his failures but the slide to faith has already begun.

This is a wonderful modern version in the vein of the original of The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis. This book is written in a very similar manner with the letters in sarcastic and archaic, formal tone but referring to modern trappings and circumstances. There is even a tie back reference to the original conversation that led to the writing of the Letters by C.S. Lewis.

I had read (and listened to) the original book so when I saw this, an up to date version, I decided it would be a good read for the Ladies Book Club at church. They were a bit confused when they started reading as it is written from the view of the devils so it took a bit to get our Christian minds to recognize the work of the devil. It was not our usual fare but they found it surprisingly engaging and enlightening. I do recommend this to those who read the original and to others who might be interested in how the devil thinks to prevent belief.

I selected this book especially for our Ladies Book Club.

GIVEAWAY:

Paperback Book (US Only)

ENTRY FORM HERE

(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries

(a) comment on the review, OR

(b) Visit the Author's Website.

* This contest is open to US only for paperback book.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) July 15, 2017. Winner will be announced in the Sunday Post on July 16, 2017.
Winners are asked to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email

Book Review: From Afar by Roger Thomas

This is a beautifully written, delightful fictional story of the three wise men, and it gives me goosebumps!  [This is probably the closest I will get to "gushing" in a review.]
From Afar
by Roger Thomas

File Size: 923 KB
Print Length: 187 pages
Publisher: Tumblar House (October 24, 2016)
ASIN: B01MQ507NQ
Genre: Inspirational. Religious, Historical Fiction
My Rating: 5.0+ of 5.0

The Magi, or Three Kings, of the Nativity story are among the best loved yet most mysterious figures in all history. The fleeting and sparse account in St. Matthew's Gospel raises as many questions as it answers. It has been so embroidered over the centuries that the original historical context has been almost completely buried. Yet the world of the early first century was as dynamic and intriguing as any legend - and much more perilous.
In his compelling novelization of the journey of the Magi, Roger Thomas draws on Scripture, history, and modern research. This swift-moving tale brings these shadowed figures to vivid life. You meet them as men of their time and culture: learned and noble, yet experienced with a brutal world and even violent when necessary. Come with them as they search for a King they do not understand, and seek for answers to questions lying in the deepest parts of their souls - providing they survive the dangers of the journey.

Review:
This is a beautifully rich imaging of the story of the three Magi who seek the birth of a king that was told in the stars. Melchior is the scholar; the teacher and mentor to the others. Gaspar is a warrior and strategist who hires out for selected battles as he has not yet found a noble general who seeks to serve his people rather than himself. Balthazar is the seeker of truth, trying out any religion he comes across in hopes of finding purity and true devotion. Gaspar and Balthazar meet by chance as they stop to visit their old teacher who seems a bit disheartened.

When Melchior becomes excited by a strange alignment in the stars, they all become interested. He taught them that there are secrets that can be interpreted by watching the heavens. Melchior is convinced that the great star and surrounding planets foretell the birth of a great king. In their discussions, Balthazar shares that there were prophesies given by a Jew in exile that told of many events that Melchior knew were not predicted by any other writings. Melchior is eager to learn more of the dreams and visions of Bel’Tshazzar, also known as Dani’el. After months of study, Melchior announces that based on the teachings he believes that the year has come when a king -more than a king, but the savior of the Jews, the Mesiach - is to be born of the tribe of Judah. The three men agree to follow the path of the star to find the king.

They set out with a good-sized group of retainers and men at arms. They also take along a young slave boy, Baba, who has proven helpful, curious and eager. He is ready for his first journey away from home.

All of the journey is an adventure, but some roads are safe and others bring danger. Along the way, they have encounters where they serve others and are given, or recover, precious gifts. When they reach Jerusalem and discover there is no new born king they falter. Then they get additional information that makes them press on just a bit further to Beit-Lechem.

The author does a wonderful job creating the characters with depths and uniqueness that compliment and strengthen each other. There are other characters too who are nicely drawn and add their own elements, such as Baba and Captain Tegranes. The journey is full of action and carried through to the return to Melchior's estate with interesting details. The story is well-crafted, and the characters and events are totally believable and beautifully presented. I wanted it to be real.

Mr. Thomas uses creative situations where the Magi acquire the gifts they later give to Yusef, Miryam and baby Y'shua. The description as they gaze on "the Divine Child" is breathtaking. The author also deftly weaves in messages of mercy and forgiveness as well as references to New Testament scriptures that may be recognized by those who have read or studied the Bible.

I found this story exhilarating! It gave me goose bumps and still does as I think of it. I had planned to read it earlier in the year but reading it a few months later is fine; almost appropriate just as the Magi came months after the child was born. I plan to buy this for my ladies’ book club and hope they will love reading it as I did. I recommend this to anyone who loves the story of the Three Kings, or Wisemen, as part of the Nativity story… and also to those who may be seekers drawn by the heartstrings of a God who speaks to His people in visions and in heavenly signs.

I am thankful that I received this in December through a Goodreads offering for review. It qualifies for Mount TBR Challenge.

Just a taste of the writing that spoke to me:
Balthazar shares with the others:

“We know that there is order in the spheres of the heavens. The stars and planets step their dance with regularity and harmony.” (Location 272.)
“It is in the heavens that we find the perfect, the unchanging, the incorruptible. It is only on this earth, beneath the sphere of the moon, that we find corruption and decay and imperfection. We men strive to do things, but our doings go awry.” (Location 276.)

Audio Book Review: Loreena's Gift by Colleen M. Story

This engaging audio presents a different view (not religious) of afterlife.

Loreena's Gift
by Colleen M. Story
Narrator: Alyssa Bresnahan

Length: 12 hrs and 4 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:04-12-16
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Listed as Religious & Inspirational
(although I think it fits Fantasy better)
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Description
Loreena Picket is a young blind woman with a gift. In the rare moments when she's not wearing her gloves, if she takes your hand, she travels with you to your own personal afterlife. Loreena will return -- you won't. Loreena's minister uncle says her power is a gift from God, and together they help terminally ill people die peacefully. Still, Loreena is conflicted, because she's seen the afterlife, and it's nothing like her uncle says it is. This uneasy peace is shattered when one night, Loreena must take a life to save her wayward brother. This act draws her unwillingly into a seedy world of crime, and she must learn to survive being kidnapped, confined, and used for her power. And, ultimately, she must discover whether her true nature is that of an angel of mercy or an assassin.

Review:
Loreena has more troubles than just her blindness. If she touches anyone hand to hand she takes them to their death. The first time it happens as an accident to a growing friend and she is devastated. Guilt is a heavy burden even as her uncle, a preacher, pushes her to assist terminally ill congregants to ‘pass over’. Each death journey is different once they pass through the initial ‘tunnel’. In addition to the guilt she feels Loreena is confused by what she perceives as conflict in the journeys and the faith teachings of her uncle.

Loreena is thrilled to unexpectedly see her brother, Saul, who walked away three years before. She agrees to go out with him and his new girlfriend, who happened to be the daughter of the cancer patient she just helped. During their evening at the bar a business ‘enforcer’ comes after Saul. The man beats Saul and then pulls a gun. Loreena reacts to stop the man – an act that propels her into a nightmare.

A strange man appears in the church. Dominic claims to be a journalist who wants to do an interview of the blind church pianist. Loreena steps out of her carefully controlled world and convinces Dominic to help her go looking for her brother. Instead they find a gang boss who wants to use her skills for his own purposes.

The story is told from Loreena’s POV and the author does a good job of presenting her world of sounds, smells and touches. When Loreena is forced to use her ‘gift’ against her will some of the afterlife scenes are far from serene. The story has a certain amount of creepiness and darkness – in more than sight. There is violence and a jolting rape scene. It fits in the story but is painful.

The story is listed under ‘religious and inspirational’ but I didn’t really feel it fit that genre as much as it fits in fantasy and paranormal. I liked the twists of the story and found it very engaging. I recommend this to readers who like paranormal tales with a bit of darkness (no pun intended).

Audio Notes: Alyssa Bresnahan does an effective job of narration. Her voice fits the age of Loreena (21) and even though the presentation is a bit low key (her style I think?) she conveys the emotions of the characters. The narration enhanced my engagement with the story.

I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.  It qualifies for my Audio Book Challenge.

Audible Book Review: This Present Darkness by Frank Peretti

This is a life-changing story of spiritual warfare.
This Present Darkness
Written by: Frank Peretti
Narrated by: Jack Sondericker

Length: 17 hrs and 25 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:06-30-08
Publisher: Books in Motion
Genre: Religious, Inspirational, Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
A small town newspaper editor and a local minister uncover a web of conspiracy while an unseen battle between the angels of good and evil takes place in the town of Ashton.
©1986 Frank Peretti; (P)2005 Books in Motion

Review:
Ashton is a small college community that is being overtaken by proponents of a belief in ‘Universal Consciousness’. This society group promotes meditation that allows people to open themselves to demons disguised as spirit guides. The town leaders including the mayor, the sheriff, a church pastor and college trustees, are all involved in corruption that pushes non-conforming people out of their jobs and out of town. But there are two new men in town, unknown to each other who are about to make a difference.

Marshall is a big city newsman who bought the local newspaper so he could semi-retire. He is still committed to quality news and it isn’t long before he begins to wonder what is going on when his attractive and effective reporter is arrested as a hooker. As they begin to investigate the ‘misunderstanding and mistaken identity’ they realize that they are getting different stories and there is a lot of tension in the town.

At another end of town, Henry Busche is the new Pastor of a small community church. He is insisting on following the Bible even in the face of forceful opposition by wealthy, powerful and influential members in the congregation.

Angels begin to gather in the town to give strength to Pastor Busche and his small but ardent congregation. Although the angels are gathering, they are not permitted to take action until certain events take place. Then they have to hope that their ranks, and the prayer coverage of the faithful, will be enough to defeat the demon hordes who have been planning to overtake the college and the town.

The author presents a clear picture of the battle of good and evil wrapped in a suspenseful story. Demons whisper in the ears of men until they work their way into control. On the other side are the faithful remnant who provide prayer support for the angels in the heavenly battle. I had never truly pictured spiritual warfare this clearly until I read this book in the 1980s. Reading this completely changed my prayer life. As I started listening to the story this time, I again felt the strength and powerful awe of the message. I know several of the ladies in the book club had trouble getting into the book but others felt the same excitement that I felt. I highly recommend this book, and the sequel, Piercing the Darkness, to anyone who has a desire to visualize spiritual warfare.

Audio Notes: The character voices are well done by Jack Sondericker. Sadly, the production sounded like it was inside a metal room with an echo. Although that was initially distracting, I pushed past it and still enjoyed the narration.

I have not read this since the late 1980s. We read this for our Ladies' Book Club. Our August meeting was postponed so we won’t be discussing this until September. I purchased this in 2012 so it qualifies for Mount TBR Challenge as well as my Audio Challenge.