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The Wall
In The Wall, we delve into the intricate life of Asher, a smuggler trapped by an insurmountable barrier that starkly divides the affluent state of Zion from the impoverished MiddleLand. Driven by the haunting memory of his late fiancée, Sarai, and the mystery surrounding her untimely death—believed by some to be more than just an unfortunate accident—Asher’s journey is one of determination and heartbreak.
As the narrative unfolds, Asher is confronted with an ethically challenging proposition by his uncle: to impersonate a soldier of Zion and thereby ensure his liberation. Recognizing the monumental risks, Asher valiantly embarks on this daring endeavor. In doing so, he grapples with a seemingly invincible foe, pushing his limits in unprecedented ways. Amidst these trials, his unwavering resolve to reunite with his beloved Sarai remains steadfast.
The Wall proved to be a captivating young adult dystopian novel blended with Christian values. Its characters are richly developed, pulling readers into the labyrinth of their aspirations and fears. The meticulously woven plot keeps one riveted, eagerly anticipating each subsequent revelation. The romantic narrative that anchors the tale is moving, resonating deeply, and leaving an indelible mark.
Admittedly, the book’s momentum does wane slightly as the story unfolds. Nevertheless, this fleeting lapse in pace hardly diminishes the novel’s overarching allure. Asher’s tribulations strike a chord, endearing him to readers and invoking empathy.
For readers of dystopian and science fiction tales, this novel is a must-read. Penn’s adept storytelling, combined with the riveting character dynamics, make The Wall an absorbing read—one that challenges you to reflect upon the depths of love and the indomitable nature of the human spirit.
Pages: 256 | ASIN : B0CJMT4NY6
Wisdom and Knowledge
Love’s Guest: Reflections of Inspiration and Wonder: An Annotated Selection from The Spiritual Dialogues by Saint Catherine of Genoa shares with modern readers this influential work about the depth of divine love. Why was this an important book for you to write?
While I was researching material for a new novel at the Abbey of Gethsemani in Kentucky, I was reading the journals of Thomas Merton. In one entry I read a section where Merton mentions he had been asked to write a biography about the life of an ‘absolutely transformative’ Saint Catherine of Genoa. I had never heard of her, but had a deep and clear urge to read more. Long story short, when I read a certain section of her ‘Spiritual Dialogues,’ I had the overwhelming feeling I was showering in Divine Love, as if every cell in my body was filled with light. I felt transformed. Within days of that reading, still “dripping in the experience,” I knew I would bring this little book to fruition. This is not a ‘religious’ book, nor am I a ‘religious’ man. But, I am aware that the power, pathos, and transformative power of this mystical Saint is alive in her song of Divine Love.
How much research did you undertake for this book, and how much time did it take to put it all together?
The book “came” to me in March, 2023. I had written the Preface fairly quickly and edited the text with Annotations. The Meditations on Love also came fairly quickly, all within 3 months.
With the Preface written and text edited, my hope was to find a “scholar” or educated writer for a more in depth and proper Introduction on the life of Saint Catherine’s life and meaning of the text, in particular the role of Divine Love in the world today.. After a few months, while I found a publisher and was receiving strong praise from distinguished Spiritual Leaders, I found no one to write the Introduction. The publisher suggested I write and at this point I delved into deep research and completed the Introduction. This was perhaps the “hardest” part for me, which took another 3 months, and the book was completed in late July, 2023. The publisher then took about 3 months to edit the work, at which time I took another month to incorporate the suggestions.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
I had no goals other than to give the book the deepest respect I could muster and do justice to Saint Catherine’s message of Divine Love. I sought to honor the call of Spirit “asking” me to write this book.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Love’s Guest?
I hope readers find in the book a certain wisdom and knowledge of what Divine Love feels like– And a knowledge– and a feeling for and sense of how Divine Love is present in the world today. I will soon begin to offer a contemplative workshop, “The Everyday Mystic” which will explore our individual capacity to receive Spirit in our life on a daily basis.
Author Links: Website
This beautifully illustrated Annotated Selection from Saint Catherine’s Spiritual Dialogues, a classic of Christian literature describing the Italian mystic’s spiritual transformation, includes a reflection workbook to encourage a deepening of love and understanding in our own lives. Freshly edited and revised for the modern reader, Saint Catherine speaks of Love as Spirit, God, and Human existence in a voice simultaneously profound and simple.
Updated with Modern English and a Reflection Workbook
God is Always There Listening
Under His Divine Gaze is an inspirational personal story and guide to help readers develop their communication skills with the divine. Why was this an important story to share with the world?
Originally, my book didn’t start out as a manuscript; it began with me documenting a profound and miraculous event that transpired while I was on a pilgrimage seeking healing in Lourdes, France. As time passed, I unexpectedly found myself writing about my health trials. Since I also experienced astounding, sacred, and transformative moments during that period, I realized that I should publish my story because I believed it could help others.
I learned that one of the ways we can commune with a higher power is through earnest and devout prayer, which can eventually lead to absolute trust and complete surrender. The result is an inexplicable inner peace. St. Thérèse of Lisieux taught me this through her writings, faith, friendship, and intercession. Another reason I wanted to share my story was to further spread devotion to her.
Through sharing my spiritual memoir, I aspire to provide hope and inspiration to those who are unsure of their beliefs, are either on the verge of discovering their faith, or are already connected to the Divine —so that they, too, will see God’s extraordinary power and that of His angels and Saints.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story, sharing the trials you went through to find your spiritual peace. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
I can’t pinpoint one thing as being the hardest to express. Since my book started out as a personal journal, and writing about my situation became a therapeutic process, I just wrote freely from the heart, recollecting beautiful moments and hardships.
As I edited chapters and excerpts, old emotions resurfaced. Perhaps the most poignant memory was leaving Ruber Internacional Hospital and reliving how I felt as I gathered my files while preparing to leave the doctor’s office.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I wanted to share the spiritual knowledge that I had attained: God is always there listening, even—or especially—when we don’t think He is; and that He won’t fail us—even if we think He has.
Another message I felt important to pass along was that gratitude can come from what is seen and unseen and arise from circumstances where we wouldn’t think it is possible. Grace and peace can be found as we journey towards God.
I also found it necessary to impart the message that there is much to be gained from learning about the lives of saints. There are patron saints for everything imaginable. Once a connection is made, what can be received from them is extraordinary—beyond expectation!
I hope my reader’s curiosity is sparked by the heavenly signs that I was granted, and that they, too, might seek to connect with God, His saints, and angels who willingly assist us.
After sharing your emotional journey, what is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
The one take-away I hope my reader embraces is the awareness that they are always under His divine gaze.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Monique continues to desire answers from heaven, and Saint Thérèse of Lisieux finds a way to deliver. By sending her signature sign—a rose—along with a series of other distinct physical manifestations, Thérèse affirms that Monique’s prayers are heard.
Disheartened and full of despair as she confronts health related obstacles, Monique longs for a divine sustaining force. With Thérèse by her side, she turns to the Lord and discovers complete surrender and the freedom that lies therein. Yearning to further her connection with Saint Thérèse, Monique sets out on a trip to Lisieux. After all, Thérèse has become her eternal sister and friend.
Under His Divine Gaze is a beautiful chronicle of faith and growth where Monique shares the soul-felt journey of her experiences with the saints in moments of disappointment and grace.
Followers of all religious traditions will be blessed by this testament to God’s love and His mercy.
Love’s Guest: Reflections of Inspiration and Wonder
In the elegantly crafted Love’s Guest, readers journey into the depths of St. Catherine of Genoa’s inner universe. Drawing deeply from her influential work, Spiritual Dialogues, this revered 15th-century Italian mystic delves into the intricate nature of divine love. The book opens with a compelling introduction that gracefully ushers readers into the life and profound devotion of Saint Catherine. Recognized for her undying service to the ailing and impoverished, her legacy has been cherished throughout the ages.
As you delve deeper, you’ll encounter a collection of meditations meticulously edited by Marc Aronoff. His masterful editing ensures that the essence of St. Catherine’s insights are accessible and resonant for contemporary readers. At the heart of these meditations lies the exploration of love: a force described as both tender and powerful, akin to a “divine flame” that fills the heart with pure ecstasy. Through these reflections, readers will grapple with the concept of the immortal soul’s capacity to experience a love that transcends the confines of our earthly existence, shedding light on the fragility of our human form. Love is portrayed as the catalyst for transformation, a force that liberates, strengthens, and aligns our aspirations with the divine.
St. Catherine vividly prompts readers to envision God as a sacred thread woven into the very fabric of our being, eternally linking us to the divine. Such imagery is potent, inviting readers to continuously acknowledge and celebrate this eternal bond. Accompanied by thought-provoking queries, this book becomes a meditation guide, urging introspection. The closing remarks by Brother Paul Quenon are particularly poignant, while Jan Richardson’s artistry—marked by its discerning palette and refined simplicity—augments the book’s resonance, encapsulating the essence of the meditations beautifully.
Engaging with Love’s Guest is a transformative experience. While its narrative may be concise, its message about the universality of love resonates timelessly. Even though St. Catherine voiced these sentiments centuries ago, their relevance in today’s context remains undiminished. Love’s Guest stands as a testament to her enduring wisdom and boundless compassion.
Pages: 88 | ASIN : B0CGGV5CLC
Sermons with Insight
Sermons with Insight, written by Roland Zimany, presents a riveting compilation of sermons inspired by his rich experiences as a Lutheran pastor. Covering an array of subjects, from the significance of Easter and Christmas to deeper themes of resurrection and salvation, this collection is both vast and profound.
Zimany’s candid sharing of his theological reflections is commendable. Particularly when addressing events like Easter, he offers discerning perspectives on God’s boundless love and its pertinent role in every Christian’s life. Zimany conscientiously roots his arguments in scripture, ensuring a foundation that is both reliable and enlightening. A standout feature of this work is his dedication to tracing theological concepts back to their origins. His exploration of early church festivals offers readers an insightful journey into traditions and celebrations, prompting introspection about their own faith and practices.
Right from the beginning, Zimany delineates his distinction from many mainstream ‘fundamentalists.’ His perspectives, somewhat different from predominant Western Christian views, furnish readers with a chance to delve into a refreshing biblical interpretation. While I enjoyed the book, I felt it could have been further enriched with a guide pointing to historical sources and influential theological references that have shaped Zimany’s views. I think such inclusions would have paved the way for readers to dive deeper into the subject matter, enhancing their grasp of Zimany’s inspiration and rationale.
Sermons with Insight deviated from my initial expectations, presenting theology from an angle I hadn’t previously encountered. This variance, however, makes for a captivating read, introducing alternative theological stances. While the omission of certain references slightly curtails the depth to which readers can probe the topics, the book remains a stimulating read, unveiling a myriad of unique theological perspectives. Highly recommended for those seeking a fresh gaze on familiar religious themes.
Pages: 300 | ISBN : 1643147250
MYSTERIOUS OCEAN WALKERS
In an era where modern science grapples with profound existential questions, Mysterious Ocean Walkers by Pastor Manu Philip steps in to address the tantalizing enigmas of our existence. How did the universe come into being? What, indeed, is the meaning of life?
Philip delves fearlessly into these ‘unresolved’ riddles, highlighting the constraints of scientific theories such as the Big Bang and evolution. He draws our attention to the subtle miracles that weave through our daily lives, often unnoticed. The narrative seamlessly blends biblical tales with contemporary concerns through relatable analogies, offering insights into how to maximize our brief existence.
Pastor Philip paints the biblical narratives with vivid and evocative imagery, transporting the reader right into the heart of the tales. Beyond its spiritual insights, Mysterious Ocean Walkers is an enlightening fusion of religion, geography, and history. It plunges into diverse themes, from the cosmos to natural phenomena, showcasing Philip’s exhaustive research and expertise. Those skeptical of religious narratives might find their perspectives challenged by the compelling evidence presented.
The author’s unique narrative style, characterized by the occasional omission of articles and a poetic departure from conventional syntax, lends the book a distinctive charm. However, this can, at times, demand more attentive reading. Heed Philip’s suggestion: this is not a light read. Approach it in intervals, allowing ample time for introspection and absorbing its profound messages.
As the pages turned, I found myself immersed in Pastor Philip’s spiritually uplifting words, culminating in a rejuvenated reverence for life. By encouraging readers to confront mortality and ponder their place in eternity, Philip instills a sense of urgency to cherish every fleeting moment on this Earth.
Pages: 191 | ASIN : B0C888KTK4
Welcome to HEAVEN: Your Graduation from Kindergarten Earth to First-grade Heaven
Welcome To Heaven: Your Graduation From Kindergarten Earth To Heaven by Trinity Royal is a remarkable Christian self-help book that takes readers on a deep exploration of the celestial realm. With meticulous attention to detail, the author delves into the profound questions surrounding Heaven, illuminating its nature and providing insights on how we can embrace the heavenly reality in our present earthly existence. While the primary focus is on Heaven, the book also encompasses a range of compelling subjects, such as the purpose and significance of life, the foundational role of earthly existence in preparing for eternity, and a comprehensive FAQ section that addresses common inquiries arising from the book’s contents.
Although rooted in Christian thought and doctrine, the valuable content within this book transcends religious boundaries, making it relevant to a wide readership. In fact, its universal appeal stems from the fact that death is an inevitable experience shared by all, and the concept of Heaven offers solace and comfort to those grappling with grief and loss. Trinity Royal masterfully constructs a framework that allows readers to perceive the eternal dimension of Heaven through mortal lenses, cleverly drawing analogies to educational levels. This approach renders the book both enlightening and captivating, making it an excellent addition to any discerning reader’s personal library.
Readers with a firm grasp of Heaven’s doctrinal foundations will get the most out of this book, as that is its focus. However, some aspects of the book may prove confusing to individuals who are new to Christian beliefs, as well as to skeptics or non-believers. Nevertheless, the book remains an engrossing read, offering thought-provoking insights and ideas worthy of consideration.
For those with an inclination towards spiritual matters, particularly those intrigued by the subject of Heaven, I wholeheartedly recommend delving into the pages of this book. Prepare to expand your perspective on life, grapple with the inevitability of mortality, and cultivate an eternal mindset as you embark on a transformative journey toward Heaven alongside Trinity Royal in Welcome To Heaven.
Pages: 163 | ASIN : B0C9N358YB
God’s Love Never Fails
Genesis of a Genre: The Birth of Christian Rock explores the origins of the Christian Rock genre and the history of the group that called themselves Agăpē. Why was this an important book for you to write?
The story is important because it fills a hole in the history of Contemporary Christian Music. As an industry, CCM tends to ignore or discount any musical contributions prior to 1973, and that obscuring of history needed to be challenged. It was also important to note that the music now presented as Christian Rock began with raw edges and pure motives.
How much research did you undertake for this book, and how much time did it take to put it all together?
In all, it took 16 months to write the book. The first three months were for contacting the original members of Agape, building a larger contact list, and, from the initial interviews, deciding where the story was going to go. It took the full 3 months to come up with a working outline.
Research was done every day until the project was completed. Every time I spoke to someone new, there was research to be done.
What experience in your life has had the biggest impact on your writing?
Failure, pain, and joy have molded my writing because they have molded my life. Moving me to be more patient, introspective, and compassionate, I’ve learned to look deeper than surface issues in hopes of discovering the energies at work behind our choices.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Genesis of a Genre: The Birth of Christian Rock?
That insight is found in the final words of the story: God’s love never fails.
LITERARY TITAN 