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Recommend this book:
Gods In The Ruins
A Vatican Archives Thriller
E. R. Barr
2024 Honorable Mention
347 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Bernadette Longu for Readers' Favorite
In Gods in the Ruins: A Vatican Archives Thriller by E. R. Barr, the main character is a boy named Daniel Azar and his parents who are archaeologists. This story starts in 2003 and then changes to the present day and takes place all in only one month, February. Barr has woven a nail-biting story around the ancient city of Babylon and the main character Daniel who becomes a Catholic priest when he grows up. Barr weaves the lives of his characters so subtly into the story from the time Daniel was a child until he is in his twenties, as well as all the supporting characters that appear. The myths that surround the ancient city of Babylon are used to advantage, as well as using the keeper of the world's ancient books in the Vatican Library in Rome.
Gods in the Ruins: A Vatican Archives Thriller by E.R. Barr has been written with an unusual skill that holds your attention from the first page to the last. Barr brings to light the ancient ruins that have been excavated for centuries in such a vivid way that, when reading the book, you can actually feel as if you are there on site. Barr has introduced twists in the plot that start in Rome and move to the Middle East and end in Rome but, as each move takes place, you eventually find out how they all fit together and how all the characters are interwoven into the story. The author has taken the chaos that we find ourselves in today, with all the holy wars going on, and turned it into a stunning crime thriller with science fiction and magic that anyone new to the genre would be captivated by after finishing this book. It is not normally the type of book I read but I found that once I started, I could not put it down and thoroughly enjoyed it, especially the fact that you could not guess as to how it would end - that was the best. Thank you for a delightful book that kept me reading long past midnight.
In Gods in the Ruins: A Vatican Archives Thriller by E. R. Barr, the main character is a boy named Daniel Azar and his parents who are archaeologists. This story starts in 2003 and then changes to the present day and takes place all in only one month, February. Barr has woven a nail-biting story around the ancient city of Babylon and the main character Daniel who becomes a Catholic priest when he grows up. Barr weaves the lives of his characters so subtly into the story from the time Daniel was a child until he is in his twenties, as well as all the supporting characters that appear. The myths that surround the ancient city of Babylon are used to advantage, as well as using the keeper of the world's ancient books in the Vatican Library in Rome.
Gods in the Ruins: A Vatican Archives Thriller by E.R. Barr has been written with an unusual skill that holds your attention from the first page to the last. Barr brings to light the ancient ruins that have been excavated for centuries in such a vivid way that, when reading the book, you can actually feel as if you are there on site. Barr has introduced twists in the plot that start in Rome and move to the Middle East and end in Rome but, as each move takes place, you eventually find out how they all fit together and how all the characters are interwoven into the story. The author has taken the chaos that we find ourselves in today, with all the holy wars going on, and turned it into a stunning crime thriller with science fiction and magic that anyone new to the genre would be captivated by after finishing this book. It is not normally the type of book I read but I found that once I started, I could not put it down and thoroughly enjoyed it, especially the fact that you could not guess as to how it would end - that was the best. Thank you for a delightful book that kept me reading long past midnight.
Recommend this book:
Embers of Shadow
Ages of Malice, Book III
Lloyd Jeffries
2024 Bronze Medal
400 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
In books one and two of the Ages of Malice series by Lloyd Jeffries, reporter Emery Merrick is offered a second chance at life, then introduced to Thaddeus Drake, who's actually the first murderer in the history of man: Cain. Assigned to a special report, Emery discovers Cain's immortality and links to the ancient past are made present. Emery's work on a precious biography turns out to be horrifically dangerous, with potential ramifications for the whole of humanity. Emery survives but is emotionally defeated. His former love, Rhyme, has married Cain and wants nothing more than to protect Emery, get her life back, and take down her hellish husband. Now, in book three, Embers of Shadow, we see the fight to free Rhyme from Cain, who continues growing in power by the second, and Emery's role in a war that has arrived with the Antichrist. The attacks on Emery and Rhyme and the implosion of humanity are threatened with obliteration at every angle.
I had the pure delight of reading both books one and two in the Ages of Malice series by the wildly talented Lloyd Jeffries, and eagerly anticipated Embers of Shadow. It should not come as any surprise that Jeffries continues to go from strength to strength with this powerful saga. It's difficult for me to tell a reader that book three could be read as a standalone, as it would certainly rob them of an exceptional build-up. At this stage, Emery, Rhyme, and Cain are all thoroughly developed. I love Emery's dogged pursuit to get the whole mess on paper in what feels like almost a follow-up to the Bible. Ancient history is coming to life in real time. It's terrifying, particularly as Jeffries paints a picture of both heaven and hell on Earth in near cinematic detail. To me, the real star is actually Rhyme, who is just a firecracker of a female protagonist. She is fiercely strong, retains her agency even as her husband stifles her life, and gets things done. As far as stories of the supernatural, the frailty and redemption of man, and themes that explode off the page, Jeffries gives as good as a reader can possibly get. Very highly recommended.
In books one and two of the Ages of Malice series by Lloyd Jeffries, reporter Emery Merrick is offered a second chance at life, then introduced to Thaddeus Drake, who's actually the first murderer in the history of man: Cain. Assigned to a special report, Emery discovers Cain's immortality and links to the ancient past are made present. Emery's work on a precious biography turns out to be horrifically dangerous, with potential ramifications for the whole of humanity. Emery survives but is emotionally defeated. His former love, Rhyme, has married Cain and wants nothing more than to protect Emery, get her life back, and take down her hellish husband. Now, in book three, Embers of Shadow, we see the fight to free Rhyme from Cain, who continues growing in power by the second, and Emery's role in a war that has arrived with the Antichrist. The attacks on Emery and Rhyme and the implosion of humanity are threatened with obliteration at every angle.
I had the pure delight of reading both books one and two in the Ages of Malice series by the wildly talented Lloyd Jeffries, and eagerly anticipated Embers of Shadow. It should not come as any surprise that Jeffries continues to go from strength to strength with this powerful saga. It's difficult for me to tell a reader that book three could be read as a standalone, as it would certainly rob them of an exceptional build-up. At this stage, Emery, Rhyme, and Cain are all thoroughly developed. I love Emery's dogged pursuit to get the whole mess on paper in what feels like almost a follow-up to the Bible. Ancient history is coming to life in real time. It's terrifying, particularly as Jeffries paints a picture of both heaven and hell on Earth in near cinematic detail. To me, the real star is actually Rhyme, who is just a firecracker of a female protagonist. She is fiercely strong, retains her agency even as her husband stifles her life, and gets things done. As far as stories of the supernatural, the frailty and redemption of man, and themes that explode off the page, Jeffries gives as good as a reader can possibly get. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
God's Colonel
An End Times Christian Novel
D.I. Telbat
2024 Silver Medal
206 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
America is no more. A series of artificial and natural disasters left the country on the edge of chaos. The New Roma Government is a force to be reckoned with on the continent as they try to restore their version of law and order. Emit Dross finds himself in the middle of this commotion; he acquires another man's identity and, by sleight of hand and brave actions, gets to control a garrison of the New Roma's standing army: the Global Security Forces. Emit's good deeds eventually haunt him when he begins piecing together the true motive behind these supposed saviors' actions. The young man must choose where he stands when he discovers the price for stability in D.I. Telbat's God's Colonel.
D.I. Telbat masterfully weaves a tale of suspense, hinting at an extinction-level event unfolding in America without explicitly stating it. These subtle references leave readers on the edge of their seats, eager to piece together the intricate details behind how things came to be so bad. The character development is exceptional. Emit's heroic actions at the civilian blockade paint him as someone who wishes to avoid needless violence at all costs, even going so far as to justify the New Roma government's initiatives in a way that will make readers reflect deeply on what they would do in his position. The way Telbat portrays the mark of the beast is remarkable; a digital interpretation that is believable and dramatic in contrast to popular culture. His delivery also begs the question of whether or not his concepts are already in use. His skillful portrayal of contemporary, flawed martyrs striving to do good makes for realistic dialogue between the characters, with whom readers will readily connect. God's Colonel has the most compelling end-of-the-world narrative I have ever read, thanks to Telbat's masterful storytelling and deliberate pacing. A masterpiece from a gifted writer.
America is no more. A series of artificial and natural disasters left the country on the edge of chaos. The New Roma Government is a force to be reckoned with on the continent as they try to restore their version of law and order. Emit Dross finds himself in the middle of this commotion; he acquires another man's identity and, by sleight of hand and brave actions, gets to control a garrison of the New Roma's standing army: the Global Security Forces. Emit's good deeds eventually haunt him when he begins piecing together the true motive behind these supposed saviors' actions. The young man must choose where he stands when he discovers the price for stability in D.I. Telbat's God's Colonel.
D.I. Telbat masterfully weaves a tale of suspense, hinting at an extinction-level event unfolding in America without explicitly stating it. These subtle references leave readers on the edge of their seats, eager to piece together the intricate details behind how things came to be so bad. The character development is exceptional. Emit's heroic actions at the civilian blockade paint him as someone who wishes to avoid needless violence at all costs, even going so far as to justify the New Roma government's initiatives in a way that will make readers reflect deeply on what they would do in his position. The way Telbat portrays the mark of the beast is remarkable; a digital interpretation that is believable and dramatic in contrast to popular culture. His delivery also begs the question of whether or not his concepts are already in use. His skillful portrayal of contemporary, flawed martyrs striving to do good makes for realistic dialogue between the characters, with whom readers will readily connect. God's Colonel has the most compelling end-of-the-world narrative I have ever read, thanks to Telbat's masterful storytelling and deliberate pacing. A masterpiece from a gifted writer.
Recommend this book:
No Turning Back
Witness Protection Book 3
H. L. Wegley
2024 Gold Medal
229 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
Members of the Del Rio drug cartel destroyed Elizabeth Sanchez's village seven years ago in an attempt to set an example for other towns that defied their brutal rule. All her family members perished that day except her. After learning that someone survived his vengeance-fueled massacre, Hector Suarez sets out to eliminate the last surviving Hernandez family member. Drew West, a writer suffering from severe writer's block, becomes entangled in this conflict when, while out hiking, he saves Elizabeth from Hector and his goons. Drew decides to protect this lovely girl at all costs, but before making such a risky move, the practical young man must banish some ghosts. Drew and Elizabeth are about to discover how determined Hector can be in H.L. Wegley's No Turning Back.
H.L. Wegley creates continuity in this installment of the Witness Protection series by subtly referencing the beginnings of Elizabeth and Hector's conflict, making it easier for readers to dive right into this gripping adventure. The narrative is simple to follow, and the fast pace evokes the sense of an end-to-end adventure where deft decision-making and astute puzzle-solving could mean the difference between life and death. Wegley emphasizes the value of Christian morality throughout the adventure; perhaps the most notable instance is the passionate scene involving Elizabeth and Drew, which culminates in their first kiss but ends before it gets too close for comfort for conservative readers. A remarkable amount of attention to detail is used in the fight scenes to make the entire adventure seem as realistic as possible. Wegley's clever use of wordplay, particularly with Drew's name and that of the ranch and the Dodge incident, lends a lighthearted tone to an action-packed novel. Action and adventure lovers will enjoy reading No Turning Back.
Members of the Del Rio drug cartel destroyed Elizabeth Sanchez's village seven years ago in an attempt to set an example for other towns that defied their brutal rule. All her family members perished that day except her. After learning that someone survived his vengeance-fueled massacre, Hector Suarez sets out to eliminate the last surviving Hernandez family member. Drew West, a writer suffering from severe writer's block, becomes entangled in this conflict when, while out hiking, he saves Elizabeth from Hector and his goons. Drew decides to protect this lovely girl at all costs, but before making such a risky move, the practical young man must banish some ghosts. Drew and Elizabeth are about to discover how determined Hector can be in H.L. Wegley's No Turning Back.
H.L. Wegley creates continuity in this installment of the Witness Protection series by subtly referencing the beginnings of Elizabeth and Hector's conflict, making it easier for readers to dive right into this gripping adventure. The narrative is simple to follow, and the fast pace evokes the sense of an end-to-end adventure where deft decision-making and astute puzzle-solving could mean the difference between life and death. Wegley emphasizes the value of Christian morality throughout the adventure; perhaps the most notable instance is the passionate scene involving Elizabeth and Drew, which culminates in their first kiss but ends before it gets too close for comfort for conservative readers. A remarkable amount of attention to detail is used in the fight scenes to make the entire adventure seem as realistic as possible. Wegley's clever use of wordplay, particularly with Drew's name and that of the ranch and the Dodge incident, lends a lighthearted tone to an action-packed novel. Action and adventure lovers will enjoy reading No Turning Back.
Recommend this book:
Prophet Reborn
Book Two (Perfect Prophet 2)
Diane M. Johnson
2023 Finalist
374 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Prophet Reborn is a work of fiction in the horror, thriller and suspense sub-genres, and was penned by author Diane M. Johnson. In the second novel of a continuing series, we join the action where Perfect Prophet leaves off, and once again the book does contain adult content, including brief sexual scenes and some graphic violence and explicit language. We find Lucas as a failed satanic high priest, and his search for redemption takes him to a Christian commune where he tries to prove his worth. But things take a turn for the worse very quickly, and Lucas’s shot at redemption gets as warped as his own morals, endangering himself and others in the process.
Author Diane M. Johnson has created a highly engaging and disturbing horror novel that ticks plenty of boxes for fans of the genre. One of the things I particularly liked about this novel was the close psychological focus on the central figure, which allows us to get into his head and see where things are going to go wrong even before they happen. This creates a wonderful sense of dread which, combined with the use of imagery and disturbing themes, gives you an edge-of-your-seat feeling throughout the reading process. I also felt that the dialogue was particularly impactful, revealing much about character but also moving the plot on with some very memorable and dynamic scenes. Overall, I would definitely recommend Prophet Reborn for fans of the first book in the series, but also for intense horror fans in general.
Prophet Reborn is a work of fiction in the horror, thriller and suspense sub-genres, and was penned by author Diane M. Johnson. In the second novel of a continuing series, we join the action where Perfect Prophet leaves off, and once again the book does contain adult content, including brief sexual scenes and some graphic violence and explicit language. We find Lucas as a failed satanic high priest, and his search for redemption takes him to a Christian commune where he tries to prove his worth. But things take a turn for the worse very quickly, and Lucas’s shot at redemption gets as warped as his own morals, endangering himself and others in the process.
Author Diane M. Johnson has created a highly engaging and disturbing horror novel that ticks plenty of boxes for fans of the genre. One of the things I particularly liked about this novel was the close psychological focus on the central figure, which allows us to get into his head and see where things are going to go wrong even before they happen. This creates a wonderful sense of dread which, combined with the use of imagery and disturbing themes, gives you an edge-of-your-seat feeling throughout the reading process. I also felt that the dialogue was particularly impactful, revealing much about character but also moving the plot on with some very memorable and dynamic scenes. Overall, I would definitely recommend Prophet Reborn for fans of the first book in the series, but also for intense horror fans in general.
Recommend this book:
Birds in the Black Water
A Dark, Paranormal Drama
Kodie Van Dusen
2023 Honorable Mention
402 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Birds in the Black Water by Kodie Van Dusen is a supernatural tale that is as suspenseful and intriguing as it is introspective. This is the story of Neviah. Ever since she was a child, she has been able to see a dark world known as the Other Side, where shadowy figures dwell and are ever vigilant. It is a place of many things, but forgiveness is not one of them. She uses this access to build a thriving counseling practice, but deep-seated guilt continues to haunt her after a professional decision 10 years before resulted in a client named Martha being placed in protective custody. Now a young boy comes to her, introducing himself as Martha’s son. This allows Neviah to rectify her error. This proves to be challenging because the shadowy figures are on the move, and they are bent on destroying Neviah by getting to her loved ones.
Most of the action in this supernatural tale is related by way of conversations. The protagonist is a professional counselor and talking to people is an essential part of her job. This gives you a low-key feeling at the beginning, and then it jolts you into awareness as you move along with the plot. I am personally fascinated by the idea of the Other Side. As Kodie Van Dusen wrote this tale after losing a loved one, this may well be her figurative interpretation of the human psyche where feelings and thoughts come to dwell during times of loss, grief, and confusion. This is what makes Birds in the Black Water a brilliant psychological and supernatural tale that you don’t find every day. It’s a powerful story about loss, guilt, and renewal. This story strongly establishes these themes with its readers because we’ve all been there at some point. It’s a sure-fire must-read.
Birds in the Black Water by Kodie Van Dusen is a supernatural tale that is as suspenseful and intriguing as it is introspective. This is the story of Neviah. Ever since she was a child, she has been able to see a dark world known as the Other Side, where shadowy figures dwell and are ever vigilant. It is a place of many things, but forgiveness is not one of them. She uses this access to build a thriving counseling practice, but deep-seated guilt continues to haunt her after a professional decision 10 years before resulted in a client named Martha being placed in protective custody. Now a young boy comes to her, introducing himself as Martha’s son. This allows Neviah to rectify her error. This proves to be challenging because the shadowy figures are on the move, and they are bent on destroying Neviah by getting to her loved ones.
Most of the action in this supernatural tale is related by way of conversations. The protagonist is a professional counselor and talking to people is an essential part of her job. This gives you a low-key feeling at the beginning, and then it jolts you into awareness as you move along with the plot. I am personally fascinated by the idea of the Other Side. As Kodie Van Dusen wrote this tale after losing a loved one, this may well be her figurative interpretation of the human psyche where feelings and thoughts come to dwell during times of loss, grief, and confusion. This is what makes Birds in the Black Water a brilliant psychological and supernatural tale that you don’t find every day. It’s a powerful story about loss, guilt, and renewal. This story strongly establishes these themes with its readers because we’ve all been there at some point. It’s a sure-fire must-read.
Recommend this book:
East of Evil
Compass Crimes Book 4
Joni M. Fisher
2023 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
East of Evil is a work in the crime, suspense, and mystery subgenres, and forms the fourth novel of the Compass Crimes series. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience for its gritty themes and is penned by Joni M. Fisher. In this startling conclusion to the adventures of aspiring FBI agent Nefi Jenkins, our intrepid heroine deals with the most significant problems of her career as she strives for justice. When Nefi discovers that someone has been siphoning funds out of her trust fund, the hunt is on for a greedy criminal, but this opens a dangerous can of worms.
Joni M. Fisher has crafted a masterful work of mystery, suspense, and fantastic sleuthing in this gripping conclusion to her stellar series. I enjoyed Nefi as a protagonist, and I found it easy to pick up her story and follow the thread of her triumphs, struggles, and past grief without reading everything else in the previous books. The plot itself is a great standalone mystery, and this is intensified all the more by Nefi’s emotional journey and her true passion for justice. I adored the build-up of suspense as the mystery pieces came together, but it never felt spoon-fed, and there were still plenty of surprises along the way. Overall, East of Evil is a novel that will satisfy fans of the existing series immensely, and I’d highly recommend the series in general to crime and mystery fans seeking an accomplished new author to enjoy.
East of Evil is a work in the crime, suspense, and mystery subgenres, and forms the fourth novel of the Compass Crimes series. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience for its gritty themes and is penned by Joni M. Fisher. In this startling conclusion to the adventures of aspiring FBI agent Nefi Jenkins, our intrepid heroine deals with the most significant problems of her career as she strives for justice. When Nefi discovers that someone has been siphoning funds out of her trust fund, the hunt is on for a greedy criminal, but this opens a dangerous can of worms.
Joni M. Fisher has crafted a masterful work of mystery, suspense, and fantastic sleuthing in this gripping conclusion to her stellar series. I enjoyed Nefi as a protagonist, and I found it easy to pick up her story and follow the thread of her triumphs, struggles, and past grief without reading everything else in the previous books. The plot itself is a great standalone mystery, and this is intensified all the more by Nefi’s emotional journey and her true passion for justice. I adored the build-up of suspense as the mystery pieces came together, but it never felt spoon-fed, and there were still plenty of surprises along the way. Overall, East of Evil is a novel that will satisfy fans of the existing series immensely, and I’d highly recommend the series in general to crime and mystery fans seeking an accomplished new author to enjoy.
Recommend this book:
No True Justice
Witness Protection 2
H L Wegley
2023 Silver Medal
253 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
No True Justice: Witness Protection 2 is a romantic suspense thriller by H.L. Wegley. The government had done Gemma Saint a grave injustice by putting her in WITSEC after she testified in a high-profile case. Gemma had been in WITSEC for eight months when her identity was compromised. US Marshall Cody Cottrell told Gemma that someone in the DOJ had sent a team to kill her. Gemma’s only hope to avoid the danger was to expose the conspiracy to a large audience through the media so that the plotters would not come after her. The only person Gemma could trust was Lex, a journalist who was determined to restore integrity in journalism in the USA. Gemma offered Lex the story of a lifetime for his help.
No True Justice kept me captivated by the intriguing plot. H.L. Wegley took me on a rollercoaster ride of thrills, action, and suspense. The story was fast-paced and full of action. The twists, turns, and danger kept me on the edge of my seat. The humor and romance lightened the seriousness of the story. I could not put it down. I just kept turning the pages as fast as I could. I had to know what would happen next. The characters were authentic and relatable. I enjoyed the romance that developed between Gemma and Lex. Sparks had flown between the two since their first meeting. The story was excellently written and has all the components for a captivating thriller. It exceeded my expectations by far and was nothing like I expected.
No True Justice: Witness Protection 2 is a romantic suspense thriller by H.L. Wegley. The government had done Gemma Saint a grave injustice by putting her in WITSEC after she testified in a high-profile case. Gemma had been in WITSEC for eight months when her identity was compromised. US Marshall Cody Cottrell told Gemma that someone in the DOJ had sent a team to kill her. Gemma’s only hope to avoid the danger was to expose the conspiracy to a large audience through the media so that the plotters would not come after her. The only person Gemma could trust was Lex, a journalist who was determined to restore integrity in journalism in the USA. Gemma offered Lex the story of a lifetime for his help.
No True Justice kept me captivated by the intriguing plot. H.L. Wegley took me on a rollercoaster ride of thrills, action, and suspense. The story was fast-paced and full of action. The twists, turns, and danger kept me on the edge of my seat. The humor and romance lightened the seriousness of the story. I could not put it down. I just kept turning the pages as fast as I could. I had to know what would happen next. The characters were authentic and relatable. I enjoyed the romance that developed between Gemma and Lex. Sparks had flown between the two since their first meeting. The story was excellently written and has all the components for a captivating thriller. It exceeded my expectations by far and was nothing like I expected.
Recommend this book:
Called to Gobi
A Christian End Times Chronicle
D.I. Telbat
2023 Gold Medal
407 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Tracy Traynor for Readers' Favorite
In Called to Gobi by D.I. Telbat, at twenty-two, Andrew Foworthy finds himself in prison, serving a nine-year sentence. After fighting through the first two years, Andrew eventually ends up in the prison infirmary for two months. At last, God has pinned him down to make him listen. Pastor Palucii accidentally enters the infirmary and ends up at Andrew’s bedside. With his mouth wired shut, Andrew has no choice but to listen to the pastor. The gift of faith is received, and from that moment on, he is a new man with a vision to become a missionary in Mongolia. Against all odds, he eventually makes his way and ends up with a Mongolian clan in Kazath country. It takes many miracles for God to show these people how much He loves them.
I adore books that take me to places on God’s earth that I will probably never see with my own eyes. D.I. Telbat’s portrayal of Mongolia is a rich tapestry that is breathtaking in its beauty. I was drawn to the people and the landscape and watched their story unfold with bated breath. D.I. Telbat is an amazing storyteller. His prose is rich and smooth and urges you to turn the next page, and the next, until the last—with its heart-stopping dramatic ending! Called to Gobi is extremely thought-provoking and emotional. It is a biblically sound novel, with a "Revelations" reminder that rang a bell in my soul. Stunning landscapes, a gripping, unputdownable plot, and characters I will never forget. I watched the film The Inn of the Sixth Happiness when I was a child, and it had a lasting effect on me. Called to Gobi had the same effect on me, and I truly hope it will be made into a film one day. This is one of the best Christian books I’ve ever read. I highly recommend it!
In Called to Gobi by D.I. Telbat, at twenty-two, Andrew Foworthy finds himself in prison, serving a nine-year sentence. After fighting through the first two years, Andrew eventually ends up in the prison infirmary for two months. At last, God has pinned him down to make him listen. Pastor Palucii accidentally enters the infirmary and ends up at Andrew’s bedside. With his mouth wired shut, Andrew has no choice but to listen to the pastor. The gift of faith is received, and from that moment on, he is a new man with a vision to become a missionary in Mongolia. Against all odds, he eventually makes his way and ends up with a Mongolian clan in Kazath country. It takes many miracles for God to show these people how much He loves them.
I adore books that take me to places on God’s earth that I will probably never see with my own eyes. D.I. Telbat’s portrayal of Mongolia is a rich tapestry that is breathtaking in its beauty. I was drawn to the people and the landscape and watched their story unfold with bated breath. D.I. Telbat is an amazing storyteller. His prose is rich and smooth and urges you to turn the next page, and the next, until the last—with its heart-stopping dramatic ending! Called to Gobi is extremely thought-provoking and emotional. It is a biblically sound novel, with a "Revelations" reminder that rang a bell in my soul. Stunning landscapes, a gripping, unputdownable plot, and characters I will never forget. I watched the film The Inn of the Sixth Happiness when I was a child, and it had a lasting effect on me. Called to Gobi had the same effect on me, and I truly hope it will be made into a film one day. This is one of the best Christian books I’ve ever read. I highly recommend it!
Recommend this book:
The Snare
The Lighthouse Series
Charles Besondy
2022 Finalist
252 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
The third installment in The Lighthouse Series by Charles Besondy, The Snare is a spiritual and psychological thriller that continues to tell the story of Charles Austin, yet it can be read as a stand-alone. As the series progresses, the face of evil continues to take shape and the Figure in Gray will continue to torment the protagonist. Charley is about to graduate high school, but as he crosses a new threshold in his life, a tragic episode from his past continues to haunt him. His world view and faith are being tested, all because the Figure in Gray, who now goes by the name of Phobley, uses Charley as a pet project as part of his sinister and seductive plan. Failure is not an option for Phobley this time, especially when he has a timetable to follow.
The Snare is an ambitious, ensnaring Christian thriller that brews with intensity as you keep reading. You not only keep track of what Charley will do next; you similarly keep track of what the villain, Phobley, is also going to do. The theme of the battle between good and evil is so amplified that it is an indication of the plot’s central idea. It gives the storyline the kind of bite necessary to sustain your curiosity. Every scene feels necessary in the plot’s thematic importance, and there is so much to like about Charley’s existential angst as he goes through his test of faith. The Snare is an enjoyable read, and you will likely pick up the first two stories after reading this one. The story is captivating in that it revels in its figurative artistry, yet it has a solid hold on realism.
The third installment in The Lighthouse Series by Charles Besondy, The Snare is a spiritual and psychological thriller that continues to tell the story of Charles Austin, yet it can be read as a stand-alone. As the series progresses, the face of evil continues to take shape and the Figure in Gray will continue to torment the protagonist. Charley is about to graduate high school, but as he crosses a new threshold in his life, a tragic episode from his past continues to haunt him. His world view and faith are being tested, all because the Figure in Gray, who now goes by the name of Phobley, uses Charley as a pet project as part of his sinister and seductive plan. Failure is not an option for Phobley this time, especially when he has a timetable to follow.
The Snare is an ambitious, ensnaring Christian thriller that brews with intensity as you keep reading. You not only keep track of what Charley will do next; you similarly keep track of what the villain, Phobley, is also going to do. The theme of the battle between good and evil is so amplified that it is an indication of the plot’s central idea. It gives the storyline the kind of bite necessary to sustain your curiosity. Every scene feels necessary in the plot’s thematic importance, and there is so much to like about Charley’s existential angst as he goes through his test of faith. The Snare is an enjoyable read, and you will likely pick up the first two stories after reading this one. The story is captivating in that it revels in its figurative artistry, yet it has a solid hold on realism.
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