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Phoenix Saga: A Modern Epic on Pro Sé Book 2: Peace on Earth Protocol

Embark on a centuries-spanning journey where ancient myths blend with the existential queries of modern life in Phoenix Saga: A Modern Epic in Prose: Peace on Earth Protocol by amalL era JesuƨɘႱ hO. This literary work offers an immersive experience that captivates and challenges readers to reconsider their perspectives on existence and spirituality.

From the outset, the book draws readers into a world where the line between myth and reality is indistinct, prompting introspection about the foundations of our beliefs. The allure of deep questions regarding faith and the universe’s mysteries makes diving into this saga feel like uncovering a trove of philosophical insights. What distinguishes this narrative is its masterful integration of timeless tales with modern themes. The author rejuvenates ancient stories, infusing them with contemporary relevance that deeply resonates with today’s readers. This novel not only entertains but also connects different ages through its explorative narrative, showcasing the enduring human quest for understanding and meaning across generations. The saga’s layered storytelling offers more than just fantastical adventures and mythical beings. At its core, it probes significant existential questions: the nature of divinity, the search for meaning in turmoil, and more. These themes encourage readers to reflect on their personal beliefs and worldviews. The author’s crafted universe, both strange and familiar, exemplifies their exceptional ability to weave complex threads of myth and reality into a cohesive and engaging narrative.

Phoenix Saga: A Modern Epic in Prose: Peace on Earth Protocol is not merely a book; it is an intellectual and spiritual odyssey. It appeals to a wide range of readers, from those seeking intellectual engagement to newcomers intrigued by mythology and philosophy. This saga invites you to explore, question, and discover new truths about the world and yourself. It stands as a unique literary journey, poised to unlock the mysteries of the cosmos and spark the imagination.

Pages: 370 | ISBN: 979-8-89132-264-6

Joseph’s Coat, Book One, Jettatore

Joseph’s Coat, by Vastine Bondurant, opens with a captivating scene that immediately immerses readers into the heart of a 1920s New York setting, replete with love, loss, and mystery. This supernatural drama unfolds around the lives of Kate and her husband, Giovanni, whose deep passion for each other is shadowed by a recent, devastating loss. Their hope to find solace by adopting a boy from a local orphanage soon encounters the twists typical of an enthralling mystery, as hidden secrets begin to surface, threatening to unravel their lives.

The novel contrasts the intimate, sometimes erotic life of the couple with the broader backdrop of the Catholic Church. In a modern literary landscape, it is refreshing to encounter characters like the priests and nuns in this story—flawed, yet fundamentally benevolent, striving to live by their faith.

Vastine Bondurant excels in narrative delivery, employing a mix of engaging dialogue and prose to weave the present with the past. Her transition from realism into the paranormal is skillfully executed, and while the prose occasionally embraces the familiar, it generally maintains a vibrant, original flair. The descriptions are richly drawn, effectively capturing the emotional landscape of the characters, as seen in passages like, “Kate’s resolve, the reason she had come, suddenly melted, drizzling into a pool of doubt at her feet.”

The research behind this novel is evident, providing a detailed and authentic glimpse into the era. The linguistic nuances, particularly the Irish and Italian accents, enrich the narrative, adding a layer of lyricism and enhancing the atmospheric quality of the setting. Joseph’s Coat is a compelling paranormal story marked by its atmospheric depth and memorable characters whose journeys resonate well beyond the final page.

Pages: 584 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CSWL2XND

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Becoming Forever Families

Becoming Forever Families, by Robert Callaway, is a compelling and emotive exploration of faith, resilience, and the bonds of family, set against the backdrop of Latter-day Saint beliefs. Callaway adeptly weaves a narrative that is both personal and universal, delving deep into the lives of the Wilkinson family as they navigate the complexities of modern life while clinging steadfastly to their faith.

At the heart of this narrative is Sarah Wilkinson’s journey, a poignant portrayal of a mother’s strength and vulnerability. Her story of finding love with Wayne Spencer and their subsequent decision to marry in the LDS temple is told with a sincerity that resonates with anyone who has experienced love later in life. The author’s depiction of their spiritual connection and shared values adds depth to their relationship, making it a central pillar of the story.

The character of Ethan Wilkinson, who grapples with Asperger’s Syndrome, is particularly noteworthy. His growth throughout the story is both inspiring and heartening, illustrating the power of familial support and personal determination. The way Callaway addresses Ethan’s challenges and achievements is sensitive yet realistic, avoiding the pitfalls of oversimplification.

Another compelling aspect of the book is its exploration of mortality through the character of David, Sarah’s father. His declining health and eventual passing are handled with a delicate balance of realism and faith. The impact of his life and death on his family poignantly underscores the novel’s central theme of eternal families in the LDS faith. While the book is deeply rooted in Latter-day Saint theology, its themes of love, loss, and familial bonds are universal. However, readers not familiar with LDS beliefs might find some theological discussions and specific practices less relatable. Despite this, the emotional core of the story remains accessible. Callaway’s narrative style is straightforward and heartfelt. His approach to storytelling is unpretentious, which makes the book a comforting read. The dialogues, I feel, sometimes read as a bit didactic, especially when expounding on religious beliefs, but they also provide valuable insights into the LDS perspective.

Becoming Forever Families is a touching and thought-provoking novel that offers readers both within and outside the Latter-day Saint community a window into the joys and trials of adhering to one’s faith in the contemporary world. It’s a testament to the enduring power of family and faith, no matter the challenges life presents.

Pages: 231 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CHD8RD19

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Conflicting Pull of Our Inner Emotions

Author Interview
Stephen Tobias Author Interview

The Varieties of Religious Experience follows a crow trying to eat some Vienna sausages who gets his head stuck in the can and hits it on the concrete causing him to realize he has lived before. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

As you can imagine, this one pretty much came from real life. I was sitting in traffic, waiting for the bridge to come down, and saw this crow masterfully opening an aluminum can. Seattle is pretty much ground zero for crow behavior research (U of Wa), so there’s a lot of interest in these birds. As always in fiction, you try to take a situation to its extreme. Who would be most shocked at discovering they were reincarnated? A Catholic priest. Couple that with the never-ending sexual abuse scandal and; Voila.

What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?

No matter which paradigm you use; Old Testament, New Testament, Freud, Jung, and my current jag-Robert Sapolosky, on the neurobiology of behavior; The conflicting pull of our inner emotions (and demons) with our moral compass and our desire to “do the right thing.” The one thing I’ve learned over the years is that it is entirely possible for a human being to believe two entirely opposite things at the same time.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

The persistence of deep inner faith is often coupled with ambivalence.

The irremediable power of shame, as opposed to “guilt.”

Does any notion of our after-death make any consistent sense?

What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?

Satan’s Vermeer. The devil has amassed one of the world’s greatest art collections. All the ‘whereabouts unknown’ are in his private museum. When news of an undiscovered Vermeer looted in WWII reaches him, he sends one of his minions, the reluctant soul of 15th-century artist, Pietro Tocca, to buy it before the Mossad reclaims it for the Jewish family that owned it before the war. Hilarity ensues…

If Varieties generates a fan base I’ll push it though.

Author Links: Amazon

OK, here’s the deal. A crow finds himself a choice spot, caging discarded scraps from a homeless guy who’s hustling handouts at Seattle’s Montlake Bridge. When the homeless guy discards a can of Vienna sausages, the crow, gluttonous as always, gets its beak caught in the half open can. Desperate to free itself, it bangs the can against the concrete. The frenzied blows to its head cause seizure-like elements and just before it passes out, the crow has the shocking revelation that it has lived before. Henry considers himself a man of deep faith, but his faith does not allow much room for this unanticipated metempsychosis. Both bemused and enchanted by his new avian identity, Henry discovers that his life is now filled with experiences and pleasures that are totally foreign to his prior human existence. Henry resolves to live his new life by being the best crow he can be, but a series of darkly comic events lead him irrevocably back to his last day as a human being and the violent event that led to this confounding slip of the cog that drives karma’s great wheel. Borrowing its title from the seminal work of William James but told as an exciting tail of avian and human misadventures: murder, redemption, and forgiveness, The Varieties of a Religious Experience is a deep meditation on how we define our place in the world and the mysteries at the heart of all our religious experiences.

The Seventh Trumpet

Alessio’s life was profoundly shaped by a series of transformative events that would leave an indelible mark on his journey. From the very beginning, he was burdened by the absence of a father he never knew and the tragic loss of his mother at the tender age of five. At the age of sixteen, he found solace and purpose in joining the ranks of the Italian army, seeking a sense of belonging and direction. But fate had more in store for him. Through a twist of destiny, Alessio would eventually find himself embracing a higher calling, becoming a priest. It was during this time that he formed a unique bond with the only man he considered a father figure—the Pope himself.

However, as life often unfolds, tragedy struck once again with the passing of the Pope. In his final moments, the pontiff alluded to a mysterious letter, one addressed to the children of Fatima. This enigmatic message piqued the interest of Reverend Ruth Waller, an esteemed academic and author well-versed in matters of faith and religion. Simultaneously, the world was embroiled in a religious war, a clash of beliefs that left destruction in its wake and demanded the attention of global leaders.

Amidst the backdrop of this tumultuous era, the election of a new Pope became a focal point, shrouded in controversy and intrigue. The events that unfolded in the wake of this election were nothing short of shocking, revealing the inherent flaws and complexities of religious leadership. The book, though a work of fiction, serves as a poignant reflection of the religious conflicts that plague our world today. It delves into the depths of interfaith debates, exploring diverse perspectives on the impending apocalypse.

One aspect that may prove challenging for some readers is the abundance of characters introduced throughout the story. Nevertheless, the overall narrative remains engaging and worthy of praise. The Seventh Trumpet by Joseph J. Dehner is perfect for fans of religious fiction and thriller novels, as it offers a unique perspective on the interplay between faith, humanity, and our world.

Pages: 312 | ISBN : 1947934082

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Redemption’s Promise

Redemption’s Promise by Sandi Rebert is a captivating delve into the realm of biblical fiction. Set in Jerusalem approximately 2000 years ago, the narrative unfolds through the eyes of a young protagonist named Jason. From the exhilarating onset, we encounter Jason in the throes of evasion, desperately trying to escape Roman soldiers. But the stakes ascend swiftly as he is confronted with a heart-wrenching decision: what does it truly mean to choose life?

Rebert artfully intertwines Jason’s journey with the seminal events marking Jesus’s life, including His miracles and crucifixion. The brilliance lies in the gradual unveiling of their connection, allowing readers to ponder and anticipate its intricate weave within the broader tapestry of the tale.

One of the standout features of this work is the adept integration of biblical verses that seamlessly align with the unfolding plot. Rebert provides a historical lens, presenting the Romans through the eyes of the Jewish community. While the narrative is fictional, it provokes deep reflection. In a world where Jesus is largely celebrated, Redemption’s Promise serves as a poignant reminder of the contentious views held by the religious leaders of His time, prompting readers to critically engage with the subject of resurrection.

Marrying suspense with spiritual introspection, this book beckons its readers to not only immerse themselves in its riveting plot but also to delve deeper into the intricacies of biblical events. I recommend Redemption’s Promise to fans of biblical fiction and to those intrigued by the myriad possibilities that might have colored the epoch of Jesus’s death and resurrection.

Pages: 276 | ASIN : B09SB8ZWY9

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World Upside Down

World Upside Down: The Life of Paul, God’s Chosen Messenger by Louis McCall is a religious tome that provides a comprehensive account of the life of Paul, formerly known as Saul of Tarsus. Despite his background of persecuting Christians, Paul became a paramount figure in Christianity, and his writings continue to inspire and resonate with the church to this day. McCall skillfully draws parallels between Paul’s life and its relevance to Christianity as a whole and the individual believer in modern times.

McCall delves deeply into the historical context of Paul’s life, providing specific details of his daily routines and missionary journeys as an ambassador of Christ. Through these insights, McCall illuminates how Paul’s work has shaped Christianity for centuries. Notably, much of the book is presented in a conversational layout between Paul and a guard named Marcus, while other prominent characters include Timothy, Mark, and Peter. Although some of these conversations are not canonical in the Bible, the points Paul makes through these dialogues, as written by McCall, are instrumental in conveying Paul’s mature theology and teachings. This book is ideal for those interested in learning about biblical characters, accounts of Paul, and spiritual scholars. While some of the writing is fictional, it is inspired by historical biblical accounts. At first glance, this book appears to be a biographical account, but upon further reading, it becomes clear that it is more of a fictionally-inspired conversation.

World Upside Down: The Life of Paul, God’s Chosen Messenger, is for those who profess a Christian belief and will undoubtedly find this book fascinating and thought-provoking. I would recommend this book to people who are interested in Biblical characters, accounts of Paul, and spiritual scholars. 

Pages: 133 | ASIN : B0BW161G4Y

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The Genesis 6 Project

The Genesis 6 Project is a fast-paced action spree from author Michael Ferguson. A mix of sci-fi and biblical fiction, the story centers around a United States research team and a newly rediscovered dangerous threat to man: the Nephilim–powerful creatures born of fallen angels who once ruled the earth. Tamir-Benob is one such creature. He is a giant who has lived for thousands of years and dispatched armies of men throughout history. The capture, understanding, and, most importantly, militarization of this being will impact the balance of world power for ages. Different factions come to a head as Tamir-Benob rampages through rural Montana, leaving soldiers and tribal Crow warriors broken in his wake.

Paced exceptionally well, The Genesis 6 Project is a really tight read. The action ramps up early and is pretty much non-stop. The different characters from the rival factions, especially Dr. Kathryn Ryan and Indian Affairs agent Ironhorse Whitman, really stand out. Ferguson does an excellent job of switching perspectives between the hunters and the hunted, and those roles reverse many times throughout the story.

At times the novel really reminds me of Rambo: First Blood, and that’s not a bad thing. But unlike John Rambo, Tamir-Benob is a genuinely menacing villain who has plans to lay biblical waste to mankind. The action is fun, and there is also a delightful amount of cloak-and-dagger intrigue. Different individuals are each vying for the power they believe the Nephelim holds. Seeking to use science to unlock the ancient mysteries of what they believe is the descendant of an actual angel, there is plenty of backstabbing and treachery.

The Genesis 6 Project is a suspenseful Christian thriller that blends seamlessly with science fiction themes. This novel will captive readers looking for an action-packed story that keeps them on edge from the open pages till the exciting end.

Pages: 301 | ASIN : B0BN2NWL4L

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