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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:
The Secret of Fatima
A Father Kevin Thrall thriller
Peter J Tanous
2023 Honorable Mention
352 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
The Secret of Fatima by Peter J. Tanous is an exciting Christian thriller that tells the story of Father Kevin Thrall, a Catholic priest who used to be a soldier. The Vatican asks Father Kevin, who has a unique past, to stop a group of rogue members of the Roman Catholic Church from starting a nuclear war. Father Kevin is reluctant to get involved but feels it is his duty. The extremist group, called Opus Mundi, believes that the church has strayed from its spiritual teachings and wants to bring about an apocalypse to reform it. They plan to start a nuclear war in the Middle East. Father Kevin is pursued by assassins while trying to stop them and protect his loved ones, including Katie, the woman he loves. The book is full of suspense and action as Father Kevin races against time to prevent a catastrophe.
I had a really clever analogy about author Peter J. Tanous being a fisher of men with the wide-ranging collection of characters in his novel The Secret of Fatima, but I'll just leave the carrot right there. Father Kevin, who allows us to drop the formalities and simply call him Kevin, is an acerbic and cynically intelligent anti-hero who is prone to things like torture due to a vacillating moral barometer. To put it frankly, if Rambo, Sherlock Holmes, and Jack Ryan had a child, it would be Kevin Thrall. And I liked him...a lot. Tanous follows the hard-boiled structure of a thriller that involves the Catholic church. One part old prophetic artifact, in this case, the Secret of Fatima, a conspiracy of extremists, important people dying, and a priest with a combat background who can get the job done. Tanous's twist here is nuclear war, an angle that makes the church as much of a potential victim as millions of people in West Asia. The most critical part of a thriller is its twists, which Tanous isn't stingy about and he keeps a reader guessing. Between the plot, the fast pacing, and the easy narrative, this novel makes for a solid entry into its new series. Recommended.
The Secret of Fatima by Peter J. Tanous is an exciting Christian thriller that tells the story of Father Kevin Thrall, a Catholic priest who used to be a soldier. The Vatican asks Father Kevin, who has a unique past, to stop a group of rogue members of the Roman Catholic Church from starting a nuclear war. Father Kevin is reluctant to get involved but feels it is his duty. The extremist group, called Opus Mundi, believes that the church has strayed from its spiritual teachings and wants to bring about an apocalypse to reform it. They plan to start a nuclear war in the Middle East. Father Kevin is pursued by assassins while trying to stop them and protect his loved ones, including Katie, the woman he loves. The book is full of suspense and action as Father Kevin races against time to prevent a catastrophe.
I had a really clever analogy about author Peter J. Tanous being a fisher of men with the wide-ranging collection of characters in his novel The Secret of Fatima, but I'll just leave the carrot right there. Father Kevin, who allows us to drop the formalities and simply call him Kevin, is an acerbic and cynically intelligent anti-hero who is prone to things like torture due to a vacillating moral barometer. To put it frankly, if Rambo, Sherlock Holmes, and Jack Ryan had a child, it would be Kevin Thrall. And I liked him...a lot. Tanous follows the hard-boiled structure of a thriller that involves the Catholic church. One part old prophetic artifact, in this case, the Secret of Fatima, a conspiracy of extremists, important people dying, and a priest with a combat background who can get the job done. Tanous's twist here is nuclear war, an angle that makes the church as much of a potential victim as millions of people in West Asia. The most critical part of a thriller is its twists, which Tanous isn't stingy about and he keeps a reader guessing. Between the plot, the fast pacing, and the easy narrative, this novel makes for a solid entry into its new series. Recommended.
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
317 Pages
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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
256 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.
Recommend this book:
No Pit So Deep
The Cody Musket Story, Book Two
James Nathaniel Miller II
2022 Honorable Mention
265 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Lesley Jones for Readers' Favorite
In the second installment of the Cody Musket series, No Pit So Deep by James Nathaniel Miller II, four years have passed since Cody and Brandi have married. Cody and Brandi still fight tirelessly to end child trafficking, when their 7-year-old daughter is snatched by a South American cartel with an old score to settle with Cody. Together with a group of elite fighters, Cody and Brandi track down the cartel to Librador in Central America, hoping Knoxi remembers the survival skills Cody has taught her. Their mission uncovers a gruesome operation of child trafficking and torture on a huge scale. As they head into the Amazon jungle, they are pursued not only by mercenaries hired by the cartel boss but also must survive the dangerous animals that live there. As they arrive back home, another deadly event leaves Cody fighting for his life and he finally discovers the meaning behind his strange visions and dreams.
No Pit So Deep by James Nathaniel Miller II is an intense and gripping story and knowing it is based on true life events made it even more emotional. I loved the relationship between Brandi and Cody; they were soulmates and the bond they shared was truly remarkable. Knoxi was a little firecracker, sweet, brave with a heart filled with love for others. Even though she was facing her own horrors, she put her own fears to one side to reassure the other children. This quote from little Knoxi really brought a tear to my eye:
“And I remembered you told me that just because you’re afraid, it doesn’t mean you aren’t brave.” Every character was well developed and extremely memorable. Even though the commandos were amazing fighting machines, their softer side shone through too, which made them all the more realistic and likable. The fast-paced storyline was interspersed perfectly with moments of conflict and endearing scenes between the characters. I thoroughly enjoyed Cody's spiritual journey and the tension-filled ending. The sinister and powerful network they uncover will really make you question the motives of some influential members of society. An emotional read by an amazing author.
In the second installment of the Cody Musket series, No Pit So Deep by James Nathaniel Miller II, four years have passed since Cody and Brandi have married. Cody and Brandi still fight tirelessly to end child trafficking, when their 7-year-old daughter is snatched by a South American cartel with an old score to settle with Cody. Together with a group of elite fighters, Cody and Brandi track down the cartel to Librador in Central America, hoping Knoxi remembers the survival skills Cody has taught her. Their mission uncovers a gruesome operation of child trafficking and torture on a huge scale. As they head into the Amazon jungle, they are pursued not only by mercenaries hired by the cartel boss but also must survive the dangerous animals that live there. As they arrive back home, another deadly event leaves Cody fighting for his life and he finally discovers the meaning behind his strange visions and dreams.
No Pit So Deep by James Nathaniel Miller II is an intense and gripping story and knowing it is based on true life events made it even more emotional. I loved the relationship between Brandi and Cody; they were soulmates and the bond they shared was truly remarkable. Knoxi was a little firecracker, sweet, brave with a heart filled with love for others. Even though she was facing her own horrors, she put her own fears to one side to reassure the other children. This quote from little Knoxi really brought a tear to my eye:
“And I remembered you told me that just because you’re afraid, it doesn’t mean you aren’t brave.” Every character was well developed and extremely memorable. Even though the commandos were amazing fighting machines, their softer side shone through too, which made them all the more realistic and likable. The fast-paced storyline was interspersed perfectly with moments of conflict and endearing scenes between the characters. I thoroughly enjoyed Cody's spiritual journey and the tension-filled ending. The sinister and powerful network they uncover will really make you question the motives of some influential members of society. An emotional read by an amazing author.
Recommend this book:
Children Of The Third
A Post-Apocalyptic Thriller (Goliath Code Book 3)
Suzanne Leonhard
2022 Bronze Medal
662 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Children of the Third by Suzanne Leonhard is a post-apocalyptic Christian thriller and the third book in the Goliath Code series, preceded by the award-winning and critically acclaimed book one, The Goliath Code, and book two, Prophet. The book revolves around the plight of the world in the seven-year Tribulation, an end-times war where the likes of individuals such as protagonist Sera Donner are fighting for their lives in the name of something greater, under the direction of words that come from the mouth of a powerful prophet but are enveloped in a higher decree. Sera is now a recipient of the genetic transformation of The Goliath Code, which strengthens her body and sensory channels. A series of battle losses that cost the lives of those close to her are devastating, but there are also reunions and blessed moments of grace that strengthen Sera and her compatriots' faith that they might prevail in the inevitable war to come. “The fallen angels are those who chose Lucifer’s side against Yahweh... In the end, they’ll all be punished by being thrown into the Lake of Fire with Lucifer.”
Children of the Third is a superbly written follow-up in The Goliath Code series and Suzanne Leonhard once again proves herself as a force in the genre of dystopian fiction. Sera is flawed and relatable. She is fragile and doubtful in a way that anyone thrust into a horrific universal war at such a young age would be. Crushing deaths that almost rain down around her, her own twin brother turning into an agent of the worst possible evil, and a father she might never see again...it's all pretty intense. But she's also strong and determined, emboldened by a growing sense of purpose and love of the Lord and we are continually reminded of what we are capable of in the darkest times. As the book of Micah 7:8 says in scripture: “Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.” Very highly recommended.
Children of the Third by Suzanne Leonhard is a post-apocalyptic Christian thriller and the third book in the Goliath Code series, preceded by the award-winning and critically acclaimed book one, The Goliath Code, and book two, Prophet. The book revolves around the plight of the world in the seven-year Tribulation, an end-times war where the likes of individuals such as protagonist Sera Donner are fighting for their lives in the name of something greater, under the direction of words that come from the mouth of a powerful prophet but are enveloped in a higher decree. Sera is now a recipient of the genetic transformation of The Goliath Code, which strengthens her body and sensory channels. A series of battle losses that cost the lives of those close to her are devastating, but there are also reunions and blessed moments of grace that strengthen Sera and her compatriots' faith that they might prevail in the inevitable war to come. “The fallen angels are those who chose Lucifer’s side against Yahweh... In the end, they’ll all be punished by being thrown into the Lake of Fire with Lucifer.”
Children of the Third is a superbly written follow-up in The Goliath Code series and Suzanne Leonhard once again proves herself as a force in the genre of dystopian fiction. Sera is flawed and relatable. She is fragile and doubtful in a way that anyone thrust into a horrific universal war at such a young age would be. Crushing deaths that almost rain down around her, her own twin brother turning into an agent of the worst possible evil, and a father she might never see again...it's all pretty intense. But she's also strong and determined, emboldened by a growing sense of purpose and love of the Lord and we are continually reminded of what we are capable of in the darkest times. As the book of Micah 7:8 says in scripture: “Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.” Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Dark Liaison
A Christian Suspense Novel (The COIL Series)
D. I. Telbat
2022 Silver Medal
361 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Dark Liaison is a work of fiction in the thriller and Christian fiction subgenres and serves as the first installment of the COIL series. It is suitable for the general reading audience and was penned by author D. I. Telbat. The book tells the tale of spy Corban Dowler as he works to see God’s will on Earth done by founding the Commission of International Laborers. COIL aims to come to the aid of persecuted Christians through the deployment of strike teams with strictly non-lethal principles As the team at COIL works hard to care for their people, it becomes apparent that they’ve become a direct target for the forces of evil.
I was particularly drawn into this book by the fascinating world-building surrounding COIL and its enemies, thoroughly well-designed lore that was introduced to the reader at a pace that constantly walked the fine line between overwhelming readers with information and keeping them informed about the nuances of what was happening. Author D. I. Telbat’s prose consistently brings the world of the story to life as characters are given a delightful nuance that makes them feel real and grounded. The narrative that the author tells using these characters is a dynamic tale of good versus evil that explores the idea of publicly wearing your faith in a world that has become hostile to it. Overall, Dark Liaison is an excellent opening installment in a series, doing a great deal of heavy lifting in establishing the world of COIL whilst still finding room to tell an enjoyable story that stands on its own merit.
Dark Liaison is a work of fiction in the thriller and Christian fiction subgenres and serves as the first installment of the COIL series. It is suitable for the general reading audience and was penned by author D. I. Telbat. The book tells the tale of spy Corban Dowler as he works to see God’s will on Earth done by founding the Commission of International Laborers. COIL aims to come to the aid of persecuted Christians through the deployment of strike teams with strictly non-lethal principles As the team at COIL works hard to care for their people, it becomes apparent that they’ve become a direct target for the forces of evil.
I was particularly drawn into this book by the fascinating world-building surrounding COIL and its enemies, thoroughly well-designed lore that was introduced to the reader at a pace that constantly walked the fine line between overwhelming readers with information and keeping them informed about the nuances of what was happening. Author D. I. Telbat’s prose consistently brings the world of the story to life as characters are given a delightful nuance that makes them feel real and grounded. The narrative that the author tells using these characters is a dynamic tale of good versus evil that explores the idea of publicly wearing your faith in a world that has become hostile to it. Overall, Dark Liaison is an excellent opening installment in a series, doing a great deal of heavy lifting in establishing the world of COIL whilst still finding room to tell an enjoyable story that stands on its own merit.
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