The Seraph Seal by Leonard Sweet and Lori Wagner

A GREAT SUMMER READ!

An epic tale of good and evil based on the four horsemen of the Apocalypse found in the book of Revelation.

Using the four horsemen of the Apocalypse to symbolize the four Gospels, four transcendental, and four forces of the universe (air, water, earth, and fire), Sweet and Wagner weave an end-times tale of good vs. evil and the promise of a new dawn for humanity. The authors scenarios used modern technology, nano-technology, bio-sciences that are presently in process and those that are controversial in possible use to present what a future may look like if evil men were to obtain these technologies for their own benefit.

Set in 2048, when planet Earth is suffering from the damaging effects of years of misuse and abuse, cultural history professor Paul Binder receives a mysterious letter that leads him to examine a lost 2nd-century Diatessaron manuscript.

Ancient prophecies, cryptic letters, and strange events set him on a course to uncover the missing clues that could lead humanity into a new age. Each character embodies elements of the four horsemen in a race to save the world from total destruction. Layered with forgotten symbolism from the ancient, Jewish, and Christian traditions, the novel is a type of engaged fiction in which the main character's lost journal serves as a guide to the reader in interpreting clues and understanding the novel's conclusion.

What a great thought provoking story. I enjoyed the realistic development of each character, the increasingly inviting pace of the unfolding story, and the mind-challenging complexities of the hauntingly real conspiracy. This book seems designed to rekindle interest in biblical prophecy or at least will inspire to re-imagine John's Revelation.

I highly recommend this book; it was exciting and full of details and would make a great movie. I like the added notes and pictures to help visualize the story, made my reading more enjoyable. “For those that say it is unbiblical or only mature Christians should read it” – those comments are ridiculous and I am being gracious – it is FICTION and a great story at that. Actually made the story of the four horseman come alive and can actually see how the ends times may happen.

I received a free copy of this book from Thomas Nelson as part of their Booksneeze blogger program.

The Corruptible by Mark Mynheir

The Corruptible by Mark Mynheir is the second book in the Ray Quinn Mystery Series. I haven't read any other Quinn books, the story had several references to incidents in past books, but enough background info was given that it was easy to follow.

 It is the story of Ray Quinn; former detective turned private investigator, who had to retire when he was wounded.

In Quinn’s first big job he tries to solve an easy open and shut case for his client. The man Quinn is searching for, Logan Ramsey, a dirty ex-cop who stole from his employer. In what begins as an “easy” case turns complicated. While investigating the motel murder in an attempt to find the stolen property, Quinn comes in contact with a list of unsavory characters.

Quinn works with his young assistant Crevis, who he is training to become a cop and Quinn's quasi part time employee, Pam (a character from the first book), who tries to teach Crevis enough grammar to pass the written test for the police academy, which he had failed twice already, due to Dyslexia.

I planned to leisurely read this story but the action on the pages kept me wanting to know more right away. If you like detective mysteries you will enjoy this book. It has interesting details such as: humor, procedural knowledge, brisk pacing, redemption and strong characters.

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah as part of their Blogging for Books program in return for my review.

Celebrate America anytime!

God’s Promises for the American Patriot by Richard Lee and Jack Countryman

A new wave of American patriots and their fervor for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are reminiscent to that of over 200 years ago.  In response, God's Promises^® for the American Patriot combines historical facts about our forefathers with promises from God's Word, giving a powerful look at the importance of Biblical values and how they affect the fabric of our constitution. 

Noah Webster’s An American Dictionary defines patriotism as Love of one’s country in defending and protecting its rights and the modern Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary defines patriotism as Love for or devotion to one’s country. This book of promises seeks to show that true patriotism is not just an emotional feeling; it is action by introducing people who believed in our country and the examples their lives provided.

This book sends the reader on a journey to understand what God has done for America and where we are as a nation. The reader will enjoy the stories of heroes, past and present, who have devoted their lives to establishing and shaping America on the promises of God.

It is inspiring and educational and is sure to fuel the passion of many Christian patriots across the globe and to spur further research.

I enjoyed reading about how men and women of character and intregity depended on biblical values and its message, using scriptures to connect love of God and Country.

Great to give as a gift and is available in Deluxe Leather Edition and Soft Cover.

I received a free copy of this book from Thomas Nelson as part of their Booksneeze blogger program.

Max On Life by Max Lucado

In more than twenty-five years of writing and ministry, Max Lucado has been the receiving line for thousands of questions from all types of sources: questions come in letters, e-mails, even on Dunkin Donuts napkins. Lucado offers insightful answers to more than 150 of the most pressing questions.

He is engaging, a good writer, has compelling stories and illustrations, and seeks to point people to the words of Scripture. Lucado has the ability to answer in phrases and concepts that are clear and free from clutter.  They are not just his opinions, but he gives God's Word to back up his answers. Included in each response is a personal explanation with scripture references. This is a wonderful book to add to your library.

The book also includes a topical index so that readers can search for a question and answer based on their own questions as well as a scripture index for readers to read and study the scriptures for themselves. This book is a great read for someone new to the faith since many questions new believers face are answered here.

I received a free copy of this book from Thomas Nelson as part of their Booksneeze blogger program.