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B0CQJF1YLQ
| 5.00
| 1
| unknown
| Dec 17, 2023
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it was amazing
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This book is a little different. It is an Exquisite Corpse Story? No it is not about a dead body or a Catholic Relic, because that doesn’t sound very
This book is a little different. It is an Exquisite Corpse Story? No it is not about a dead body or a Catholic Relic, because that doesn’t sound very Christmasy, but Catholic Teen Books has several Christmas-themed ones to offer. An Exquisite Corpse is story written as a game in which each participant takes turns writing their contribution and then passing it to the next player to add to the story. The previous volumes are: The Christmas Lights, A Fowl Christmas and the forthcoming The Gift of the Angel Tree they are storries written in parts, serially. This one was a much more serious story and it is deeply moving. It was sort of an experiment. We are informed that: “Catholic Teen Books is a collaborative website of authors who all write faith-based fiction for middle school and high school teens. In December of 2020, many of the Catholic Teen Books authors wrote a collaborative story, “The Christmas Lights,” for Christmas that was read on Jedlie’s Reading with Your Kids Podcast, on Christmas Eve. In 2021, Catholic Teen Books authors collaborated on what became “A Fowl Christmas.” Jed again gave us a prompt, and one by one each of us wrote a section as the story was passed from author to author. Only the final author knew the entire story until we read it for the podcast. In 2022, we added to our growing Christmas collective story collection with “A Saint Nicholas Eve Carol.” We enjoyed these projects and wanted to share these fun, short stories with others. Proceeds from this e-book will be donated to Cross Catholic Outreach. We hope you enjoy!” And the description of the story is: “Ebby's been paired with Bear, a kid with Down's Syndrome, for the St. Nicholas Eve Confirmation retreat. One minute she's scheming how to ditch Bear and the next she and her friend Pastelle are transported into a twisted vesion of Dickens' A Christmas Carol. Will Ebby let Bear take the fall for her friends' mischief, or will Ebby stand up for him once she realizes there's a lot more to Bear than she realized? "A Saint Nicholas Eve Carol" is a collective short story written sequentially in individual pieces by four Catholic Teen Books authors and originally presented aloud on Reading with Your Kids Podcast..” The contributors are: Antony Barone Kolenc Carolyn Astfalk Leslea Wahl Corinna Turner This one of the three available currently has the fewest contributors, but that does not distract from the story. Ebby’s has three dreams or visitors while dozing off on the confirmation retreat. They are watching A Christmas Carol, Ebby is finally in with the cool crowd. But this retreat she is paired with a boy with Down Syndrome, nicknamed Bear. She wants to ditch him from the start but the leader keeps insisting she learns from this weekend. When things go terribly wrong she must decide if she will cover the butts of the 3 cool kids or stand up for the truth and for Bear. She has to decide what type of person she wants to be. And the stakes high. This is an excellent short story it is very moving. It is a story about friendship, faith, and figuring out who you are or who you want to be. Abigail – Ebby faces a hard choice. To find out what decision she makes you will need to read this excellent story. I can easily recommend this book and the previous two volumes, in the same style, and I greatly look forward to this year’s offering. This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 19, 2023
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Dec 20, 2023
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Dec 19, 2023
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Kindle Edition
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B0CDSPF7CJ
| 5.00
| 1
| unknown
| Aug 04, 2023
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it was amazing
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When I started reading the Dreams of the Storyteller Series there were 18 volumes in the collection. Then it expanded to 20, and now it is compressed
When I started reading the Dreams of the Storyteller Series there were 18 volumes in the collection. Then it expanded to 20, and now it is compressed to 14. Six of the stories have been split off into a different collection called Sherlock Holmes Pastiches. I have read a number from each collection and I have picked up several anthologies that Paolinelli has contributed to, that I have not got around to reading yet. I have also read 2 novel, Galen’s Way, and Galen’s Blade and eagerly await the two forthcoming offerings in that series. I have also picked up several of his other novels after reading the first few stories in this series. This was the last of those 20 shorter works by Paolinelli that I got around to reading. IN part I saved it for the end, because this story in the Anthology Cracked An Anthology of Eggsellent Chicken Stories edited by Bokerah Brumley. After having now read 22 different stories by Paolinelli and a number of them more than once, I am now trying to read one a week until I have read his whole back catalogue. Several of his stories and novels are towards the top of my ‘to be read pile’. Richard is not only an author but the driving force behind Tuscany Bay Books, I have read many volumes from the Bay by a number of authors and all have been well worth the read. This was one of several new short stories that dropped in the collection Dreams Of The Storyteller. There are now as mentioned, a collection of 14 volumes in that collection, the first 2 date from 2014, 1 from 2022, and the rest have dropped in 2023. After reading the first story I went back and grabbed the whole collection. Much like I did with Declan Finn last year with reading a story a week until I have read all he has published. At the time of reading this I have read 449 books so far this year. I can easily state that this is another excellent story from Paolinelli’s masterful pen. I said in a previous review that I have been aware of Richard and his works for a few years now. It is my loss that I did not dig into his works earlier. Don’t make my mistake, pick some up and give them a read! The description of this story is: “Old MacDonald’s Farm is a pot about to boil over. Brooster Motherclucker has had just about enough of the antics of the Evil Empire – the four-legged creatures that roam the barnyard in league with the Dark Lord, Old Farmer John MacDonald. He wants to lead an alliance of rebels formed from his fellow two-legged fowls to throw off the yoke of the Evil Empire and their minion, the Dark Lord. But he fails to inspire the uprising. Then, a spider named Naebi Obiwonk – the last of the Araneae Order – appears and begins to train Brooster in the ways of the Aranae, the light side of the Great Web. This training he will need to overcome the Dark Lord, who serves the Dark Side of the Great Web. Only then will Brooster be able to defeat the Evil Empire.” In the author’s forward Richard states: “I feel like I should explain how this story came to be. That way it might make a little more sense how I managed to toss Star Wars, Charlotte’s Web, and Looney Tunes into a bowl, scramble them together, and come up with this story. I was editing Planetary Anthology Series: Pluto and two authors – Bokerah Brumley and A.M. Freeman – submitted stories that I accepted into the anthology. Bokerah cooked up a story about a killer chicken on the loose on Pluto. A.M. is known for attending conventions in a cow onesie. With this in mind, I made the comment one day about a cow facing off against a chicken. “Cock-a-doodle-doo, motherclucker,” was Bokerah’s response and that was just enough to get me started on the path to this story. When Bokerah decided to put together an anthology of sci-fi/fantasy chicken stories Brooster Motherclucker was born.” This is a hilarious story and a mush up parody of some many fandoms. It is well written. It will have you laughing out loud. Join Brooster on his training regime. Be thrilled by his first battle with the hound dog. And watch as he loves ‘when a plan comes together’ to go after the four legged farm animals and the Evil lord the old farmer. At the end of the volume it states: Coming Soon - BARN WARS 2: The Hare Menace It has been over three years and we have not seen it yet. But after how much fun this story was, I can hope we someday see it in print. It was fitting that this was the last story in the series I read as it was my introduction of Richard’s work. This is another great short story from Paolinelli’s masterful pen. It is the final book in this series for me to read, at least for those in print at the moment. I plan now to read the 14 volumes in the Dreams of a Storyteller Series, in publication order. This is an Eggsellent story in a wonderful collection. I can easily recommend it! This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 18, 2023
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Dec 18, 2023
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Dec 18, 2023
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Kindle Edition
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B0CDSRHZD1
| 4.33
| 3
| unknown
| Aug 04, 2023
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it was amazing
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This is the 21st different story I have read from the masterful pen of Paolinelli this year. And four of them I have already read twice. I have now re
This is the 21st different story I have read from the masterful pen of Paolinelli this year. And four of them I have already read twice. I have now read all 6 Sherlock Holmes Pastiches from the pen of Richard Paolinelli. When I first picked this volume, it was part of a collection called Dreams of the Storyteller, but since then the 6 stories about Holmes have been split off into their own collection. I can recommend everything I have read from Paolinelli’s pen are well worth the read! I love the six stories in this collection. I freely admit I picture Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman and Holmes and Watson, when reading these stories. My introduction to Richard’s works was a piece in the anthology Cracked. I have picked up several anthologies he has contributed to but have only got around to reading 2 of them. Right now I am bouncing around this series and the Dreams of the Storyteller Series. I have also read the novels, Galen’s Way, and Galen’s Blade and eagerly await the two forthcoming offerings in that series. I have also picked up several of his other novels after reading the first few stories in this series. After the few stories by Paolinelli I read I am now trying to read one a week until I have read his whole back catalogue. Several of his stories and novels are towards the top of my ‘to be read pile’. Richard is not only an author but the driving force behind Tuscany Bay Books, I have read many volumes from the Bay by a number of authors, and all have been well worth the read. The six volumes in this collection dropped in 2023. The first five I read had been previously published in anthologies. This one first appeared in Sherlock Holmes: Adventures In the Realms of H.G. Wells, Volume 2 edited by Derrick Belanger. Once I have completed Paolinelli’s standalone works I will work through all the anthologies he contributed to, and look forward to rereading this story again when I get back to it. Much like I did with Declan Finn last year with reading a story a week until I have read all he has published. Over the last several weeks one of Richard’s stories has been every fourth or 5th volume read. This is another wonderful story from the Paolinelli‘s pen. I said in a previous review that I have been aware of Richard and his works for a few years now. It is my loss that I did not dig into his works earlier. I strongly urge you don’t make my mistake, pick some up and give them a read! The description of this story is: “H.G. Wells has built his time machine and taken American author Edgar Allan Poe on several trips through time. Unfortunately, he has become separated from Poe while hunting for Jack The Ripper in London. Wells enlists the aid of Holmes and Watson to find Poe and return him to his correct time frame.” It was fascinating to read this tale of a young Holmes and Watson interacting with the author and scientist H.G. Wells. The story has a very intriguing principal. Wells approaches Holmes because he has misplaced another author in both time and space. The question is can Holmes and Watson help find and put the man back when and when he belongs. It also raises questions about if the timeline the story ends in was the original or if the time hopping has altered things. A masterful short story in the time travel genre. Prior to reading the other Sherlock offering from Paolinelli it had been a long time since I have read a Sherlock Holmes story, and in this case a story by Wells as well. This one was another great little read. It is very well written story. Paolinelli’s stories fit in perfectly with the other stories I have read in both of official and unofficial Holmes canon. Paolinelli breathes new life into the characters and yet he remains true to their original creation. This is another excellent short story from Paolinelli’s pen. It draws the reader in quickly, it keeps your attention, and leaves you wanting more. Fortunately, Paolinelli has written 5 other Holmes stories. The characters are wonderfully written and fit extremely well in the history of the characters. Rumour has it there might be other Holmes stories from Paolinelli in the future, but while we wait I will reread the six that are available to date. If you have not read anything by Paolinelli don’t make my mistake. Pick some up and give them a read now. There is a lot to choose from and I am sure you will be entertained. At the time of reading this I have read 447 books so far this year, and consider this one of the best stories. This story would be great for fans of the original Holmes stories, or the recent BBC Series. It would be great for fans of mysteries. And for fans of the works of H.G. Wells. And to be honest for anyone who just loves a great short story! This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 17, 2023
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Dec 18, 2023
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Dec 17, 2023
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Kindle Edition
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0999658662
| 9780999658666
| B0CNYJRKXP
| 4.70
| 93
| unknown
| Dec 06, 2023
|
it was amazing
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I read the original Sword and Serpent trilogy and through that it was an epic story. This latest offering in the same historical fiction world hits it
I read the original Sword and Serpent trilogy and through that it was an epic story. This latest offering in the same historical fiction world hits it out of the ball park. In this work Taylor Marshall takes on the legend of Saint Nikolaos is amazing! Dr. Marshall in the acknowledgements states: “I still believe in the real Saint Nikolaos. May this short novella remind people of the countless miracles that God accomplished through his servant Nikolaos who died as a revered bishop at the age of 73 on December 6 AD 343. The plot of this book takes place 44 years prior when he was a newly ordained Christian presbyter ministering in Myra. The novella retells the famous story of Nikolaos assisting three poor daughters on the brink of being sold into prostitution and is the origin story for Nikolaos’s reputation of sneaking into homes and leaving gifts on Christmas morning.” The description of this book is: “In the heart of the Roman Empire, presbyter Nikolaos faces an otherworldly battle far beyond anything he has ever experienced. Melitta, daughter of a fallen merchant, teeters on the precipice of slavery, her family's fate entwined with a demonic force gripping her father's soul. Nikolaos is tasked with the impossible: to free Melitta’s father from the demon’s malevolent clutches and save Melitta and her sisters from a life of shameful servitude. Can he overcome his own uncertainties to confront the demon and unravel the secrets binding Melitta's family to a fate worse than death? As the feast of the Nativity approaches, the boundaries between faith and fear blur, and miracles are forged in the crucible of desperation. Will love, courage, and the spirit of the season prevail over the evil threatening the Empire’s very soul?” We encounter many new historic figures in this book, and also get to visit with old friends including Georgius aka Jurian, Christophorus - Menas, Mari, and Macarius. The dedication of the book states: “This book is dedicated to all the good bishops and priests who, like Saint Nicholas, have lovingly served our family as good shepherds of the sheep.” This story is very well written. Each of the 4 novels I have read from the pen of Marshall have great characters, a solid plot, and excellent prose. The story draws you in and keeps your attention. IT presents the reality of the spiritual battle and the spiritual realm. About thirty years ago Frank E. Peretti was very popular in evangelical circles; I loved his books This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness but by the time I read his book The Oath I felt like I was reading a Christianized Stephen King, just sprinkle some Jesus on it. When I finished The Oath I felt slimed, like I needed to go to confession. This volume does an amazing job of showing the darkness we fight against, in a fictional manner, and yet does not cross that like to where the focus becomes the strength and power of evil. It is a delicate balance and Marshall handled it masterfully. It was wonderful to read about Nikolaos and his experiences serving his people. His turning to prayer again and again, his bilocation to help save friends at sea. His battling evil and demons in the name and power of Jesus. And his seeking for God’s guidance and will for how to save three young women of his flock from a fate worse than death! Nikolaos’s invocation in his final confrontation with the demon are moving and powerful. Even though this is a fiction offering it has helped deepen my prayer life this advent, as I have read this story and continue to reflect upon it. As of the writing of this review I have read 446 books so far this year. Of the novels this one is one of the best. It is a wonderful read. It will be appreciated by those who are into historical fiction. Buy those who are Christian or Catholic and want a real glimpse of what like would have been like prior to Christianity becoming an approved religion. It is part of an epic story and that really is the best kind! This piece of the Sword and Serpent series is an excellent offering. This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 15, 2023
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Dec 16, 2023
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Dec 15, 2023
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Kindle Edition
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B0CD2MW7XQ
| 5.00
| 1
| unknown
| Jul 27, 2023
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it was amazing
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When I started reading the Dreams of the Storyteller Series there were 18 volumes in the collection. Then it expanded to 20, and now it is compressed
When I started reading the Dreams of the Storyteller Series there were 18 volumes in the collection. Then it expanded to 20, and now it is compressed to 14. Six of the stories have been split off into a different collection called Sherlock Holmes Pastiches. I have read a number from each collection and I have picked up several anthologies that Paolinelli has contributed to, that I have not got around to reading yet. I have also read 2 novel, Galen’s Way, and Galen’s Blade and eagerly await the two forthcoming offerings in that series. I have also picked up several of his other novels after reading the first few stories in this series. After having read a few of the stories by Paolinelli I am now trying to read one a week until I have read his whole back catalogue. Several of his stories and novels are towards the top of my ‘to be read pile’. Richard is not only an author but the driving force behind Tuscany Bay Books, I have read many volumes from the Bay by a number of authors and all have been well worth the read. This was one of several new short stories that dropped in the collection Dreams Of The Storyteller. There are now as mentioned, a collection of 14 volumes in that collection, the first 2 date from 2014, 1 from 2022, and the rest have dropped in 2023. After reading the first story I went back and grabbed the whole collection. Much like I did with Declan Finn last year with reading a story a week until I have read all he has published. At the time of reading this I have read 442 books so far this year. I can state that this is another excellent story from Paolinelli’s masterful pen. I said in a previous review that I have been aware of Richard and his works for a few years now. It is my loss that I did not dig into his works earlier. Don’t make my mistake, pick some up and give them a read! The description of this story is: “A reality television crew gets more than they bargained for when they travel deep into a remote national forest in search of an urban legend. They encounter a set of stairs, unattached to any structure and seemingly leading nowhere. But despite the park ranger's statement that "nothing ever happens here" they will encounter a supernatural horror beyond their wildest imagination.” This story has a different plot that took me by surprise. With how much I read that is saying something. There were several occasions while reading 12 of the other stories in this collection, where I almost started this one. But I kept putting it off. This story involves a ghost hunter’s type crew from a show called Haunted America looking for disappearing staircases in a national park. The head ranger, District Ranger Blanchard tries to dissuade them. Their leader is Larry Kincaid, and he is supposed to be the brains of the outfit. Vicki Grace is his cohost and Randy Phillips is the cameraman and tech crew. They record some pieces outside the ranger station including an intro: ““According to Native American legends that date back to long before the first Europeans showed up in this area,” Kincaid continued. “There are staircases of stone mysteriously appearing and disappearing throughout this vast and very dense forest. Now mind you, it’s just the stone steps by themselves that pop in and out of existence. The stairs don’t lead to anywhere and they aren’t attached to any visible structure. Adding to the mystery, the sizes of the stairs vary, from as small as five feet to as high as forty feet tall. If that wasn’t strange enough, not only do the stairs change configurations, there doesn’t seem to be any kind of pattern associated with the times and locations of their appearances.”” But Larry has a plan, and his picked a few locations to check out. Unfortunately for the three of them he plotted correctly. And with disastrous consequences. To Find out what befalls them you will need to read this chilling tale. This is another great short story from Paolinelli’s masterful pen. It is the penultimate book in this series for me to read. I have a feeling that once I have read the 16 volumes in the Dreams of a Storyteller Series, I will circle back and reread them in publication order. This is a great story in a wonderful collection. I can easily recommend it for fans of great short stories! This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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not set
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Dec 14, 2023
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Dec 14, 2023
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Kindle Edition
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B0BN9YRPY6
| 5.00
| 1
| unknown
| Dec 05, 2022
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it was amazing
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This was an excellent story! The author at the end states that: “First off, thank you for reading through what is admittedly the silliest thing I have This was an excellent story! The author at the end states that: “First off, thank you for reading through what is admittedly the silliest thing I have ever written. If I got one laugh from you, then I have succeeded. This project came about because Katie Roome of Periapsis Press approached me about doing a Christmas-themed short story. It… spiraled out of control and turned into this. So, I apologize to Katie for not coming through, and writing a novella instead. While I usually loathe meta humor (to my mind only Declan Finn and John Ringo get away with it), I threw in some goofy references to a variety of things, usually a reference to a friend’s work.” He also indicates that there are references to numerous books and authors. Many I recognized. including the Saint Tommy, NYPD Action Figure and the movie poster for Michael Gallagher’s book Body and Blood. He also indicates references to John C. Wright’s Superluminary, and L. Jagi Lamplighter’s Books of Unexpected Enlightenment series both of which I am aware of but have not got around to read yet. But back to the work at hand, the description of this volume is: “It should have been a routine Christmas Eve, but when a demon is spotted at Greederly's shopping center, Santa and his newest elf recruit must act. Violently. Riding Santa's modified rocket tank and armed with enough firepower to shake the gates of Hell, the pair discover a conspiracy that goes deeper than just a demon trying to get a girl to steal a doll and end up on the Naughty List. Fistfights, explosions, and magic raptors are jolly, but can Santa stop the mastermind trying to ruin Christmas before the clock strikes Lunar Midnight? Or will Christmas joy be lost to some forever?” A passage that I highlighted was: “The big man raised a knowing eyebrow and cocked his head to the side. “You’re going to tell me you’re Santa, aren’t you?” Mitchell said with a sigh. “Look, I…” He glanced at the almost completely dissolved monster laying in the snow. “That was a lesser demon,” the old man said. “It was whispering things to you, terrible things. So, I shot it dead.” “Heh… Santa shot a demon…” “With a bullet blessed by the pope.” “Demons? Santa? I was raised to believe in those things, but… How am I supposed to when…” “When places like Greederly’s can treat you so terribly after you’ve worked so hard for them? When you have a wife and child to take care of? I know what you’re thinking.” The old man placed a strong, but gentle, gloved hand on Mitchell’s shoulder. He nearly sank under the weight, but he sensed that it wasn’t the physical weight that he felt.” The sleigh I mean battle tank a modified Mark IV in this tale is powered by: “Wide awake, and fixed to thick straps and harnesses, were nine utahraptors. The huge, feathery bird lizards greeted Santa with excited coughs and chirps. Santa returned their enthusiastic hellos with pats and cheerful words. He laughed and ruffled their vibrant feathers in turn.” With the names of called: “On Seraphim! On Cherubim! On Throne and Dominion! On Power and Virtue, on Principality, Archangel, and Angel” named after the choirs of angels. The Tank was service by Arnold, who had a rectangular face and a severe, militaristic haircut. But one reference to action heroes from my youth. Others with names of Charles, Dolph, Steven, and even a bad guy named Jean-Claude. But the main focus of the story is saving souls, first of a little girl who was at the top of the nice list who is about to steal a doll. And her father who has been abused and beaten down by the owner and HR department at Greederly’s. So Saint Nick and his helper Reb head out to save Christmas eve for these two. “The stable doors opened. Reb entered, loaded with weaponry. Strapped to his back was a heavy rifle chambered in .308. Twin bandoleers crossed his otherwise bare chest, packed with spare magazines and grenades. Now, a red bandanna was tied around his forehead, and he was wearing sturdy boots and dark, camouflage pants.” And a hat tip to Star Trek’s saucer separation. Oh My! This story did indeed cause a few out loud chuckles. Prior to reading this I had only read one offering from LaPoint in the anthology je edited, Swords and Maidens, but I had picked up a few of his novels. After reading this they have jumped way up on the ‘to be read’ pile. This was an excellent read. A great story I can easily recommend. This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 11, 2023
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Dec 12, 2023
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Dec 11, 2023
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Kindle Edition
| |||||||||||||||||
1910806250
| 9781910806258
| B0CNWNZRNM
| 5.00
| 9
| unknown
| Nov 22, 2023
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it was amazing
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This series gets better and better, this is an excellent short story. This is a masterfully crafted piece! As soon as I finished it I out it back on m
This series gets better and better, this is an excellent short story. This is a masterfully crafted piece! As soon as I finished it I out it back on my to be read pile to read it again. Again this one hints at the long teased prequel A Mom With Blue Feathers. This story was AWEsome it is a great read in an FANtastic series. I have read stories in this series over 38 times now. And my son has read all of them more than once as well. We have been ordering them for my nephew his cousin, as he finished each we order him the next. We have also given a complete set to the school library that is how much we love these stories! And how highly we regard these stories and Turner’s writings. I first read a story by Turner in 2015, and read the first in this series in 2017. Since then, I have read book by her a total of 71 times, and unSPARKed stories 38 of them. I have also read a number of the unSPARKed stores in Anthologies. This story is the tenth novel in the series and is available as an eBook and in print format. This book and series are excellent for teens, young adults and adults. The series keeps getting better and better! It has real staying power. When I am recommending this series, which happens often, I frequently describe it as a mashup of Mad Max, Lost World, and Jurassic Park, and I have recommended it to many, all who have enjoyed them. In many ways it is like 50 years after Jurassic World Dominion. We have even bought a full set for my son’s school library and know from the Librarian that they are very popular. unSPARKed is a series set in a not-too-distant future. Dinosaurs once again roam the earth. Just because a scientist could do something, did not mean they should have done it. Most people live SPARKed, in cities with walls and electrified fences. There are two groups of people who live unSPARKed, farmers who have electric fences around their farms and live in community with their close neighbours. The other are Hunters who live most of the time out on the road or off road in HabVI’s Habitat Vehicles. The description of this volume is: “WHAT WILL THE TRUTH COST? In prison, Joshua finally found out who kidnapped Darryl and Harry’s dad almost two years ago. After all this time, there's no real hope that he's alive, but now that Josh is free they have one last chance to find out who actually killed William Franklyn—and why. But confronting a murderer might be the least of their worries. The wildlife is as wild as ever, and worse, if the city-folk see them together, they’ll have to run—or face the consequences. Just what will it cost them to find out the truth? And if they do, what happens next?” This story is told in a series of first person narratives. The narrators are: Darryl - 10 Joshua - 10 Harry - 10 I was a little surprised there was not at least a chapter from Father Benedict’s point of view. The three of them are finally reunited. Joshua is out of prison, Darryl is working at the Zoo, and Harry snuck away from his foster parents. Josh shares the news he heard at the end of the last volume. Father Ben shares the research he has been able to gleam. And together they decide on a last ditch effort to try and find out what really happened to Darryl’s and Harry’s dad, even if it means they have to become fugitives in this state. But the need to know is too high. But sometimes when you go looking for the truth you end up with more than you bargained for. And some revelations change everything you have believed for years. The next story in the series is Weigh The Odds and I can freely admit we are both desperate for Corinna to write and release it. This story takes place over a very short time frame but it is packed full of information tying together many of the subplots in the series to date. Some I expected, some with a different twist. We can only hope the next volume Weigh The Odds and the long-awaited prequel A Mom With Blue Fathers drop sooner rather than later. This story ends with in a surprising way, and leaves you desperate for more. I belive Turner has 2 or 3 more novels planned for the main series and at least the one promised prequel story. This is another great read in a MASTERfully written series. It is an excellent read by a gifted and talented author, and one of our favourite contemporary YA and Catholic authors at that! A volume we can easily recommend for fans of the series, fans of science fiction or really anyone who just loves a very well crafter story. This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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Dec 20, 2023
Dec 07, 2023
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Dec 20, 2023
Dec 08, 2023
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Dec 07, 2023
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Kindle Edition
| |||||||||||||||
B0CPH79J5B
| 4.00
| 2
| unknown
| Dec 03, 2023
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it was amazing
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This book is a little different. Like the earlier volume, The Christmas Lights, it was a story written in parts, serially. It is a very fun and and a
This book is a little different. Like the earlier volume, The Christmas Lights, it was a story written in parts, serially. It is a very fun and and a deeply moving story. It was sort of an experiment. We are informed that: “A Fowl Christmas" is a collective short story written sequentially in individual pieces by seven Catholic Teen Books authors and originally presented aloud on Reading with Your Kids Podcast.” And the description of the story is: “Mom's stranded out of town, Dad injured his leg, and Derrick's family Christmas feast is in jeopardy. With the help of his brother, Blake; his friend, Grace; and a bargain involving some chickens and the old ladies down the street, maybe Derrick can still pull off this holiday meal. Or maybe it'll all go up in smoke!” We are further informed in the introduction that: “Catholic Teen Books is a collaborative website of authors who all write faith-based fiction for middle school and high school teens. In December of 2020, many of the Catholic Teen Books authors wrote a collaborative story, “The Christmas Lights,” for Christmas that was read on Jedlie’s Reading with Your Kids Podcast, on Christmas Eve. In 2021, Catholic Teen Books authors collaborated on what became “A Fowl Christmas.” Jed again gave us a prompt, and one by one each of us wrote a section as the story was passed from author to author. Only the final author knew the entire story until we read it for the podcast. We enjoyed these projects and wanted to share these fun, short stories with others. Proceeds from this e-book will be donated to Cross Catholic Outreach.” The contributors are: Carolyn Astfalk A.J. Cattapan Antony Barone Kolenc Stephanie Engelman Leslea Wahl Marie C. Keiser Andrea Jo Rodgers Corinna Turner This is a great short story it is very moving. It is a story about family, friendship, community, serving, and just maybe a Christmas miracle. Derrick along with his brother Blake and his best friend Grace are trying to save the family’s turn to host Christmas Dinner. Their mother is away and delayed getting back, their dad is laid up with a leg out of commission. Their dad also needs a new gig as he had to close his restaurant. Grace has some shocking news as well. They are blackmailed into trading their dad’s prize chicken’s. An eveing at a soup kitchen a lot of misadventures including saving chickens from a burning barn. The story is at times laugh out loud funny, and at times nearly brought me to tears. And Turner’s reference to T-Rex brings to mind her amazing unSPARKed series. Help might come from the most surprising of places. And maybe a miracle; as some unsavoury characters have vanished in the wind. But to find out the details you will need to read this excellent short story. I can easily recommend this book and the previous volume, in the same style, The Christmas Lights. This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
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Dec 07, 2023
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B0CDSQ4RWN
| 5.00
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| Aug 04, 2023
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it was amazing
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I have now read five of the 6 Sherlock Holmes Pastiches from the pen of Richard Paolinelli. When I first picked this volume, it was part of a collecti
I have now read five of the 6 Sherlock Holmes Pastiches from the pen of Richard Paolinelli. When I first picked this volume, it was part of a collection called Dreams of the Storyteller, but since then the 6 stories about Holmes have been split off into their own collection. I can recommend everything I have read from Paolinelli’s pen his works are excellent! I love the stories in this collection. Though I freely admit I picture Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman and Holmes and Watson, when reading these stories. My introduction to Richard’s works was a piece in the anthology Cracked. I have picked up several anthologies he has contributed to but have only got around to reading 2 of them. Right now I am bouncing around this series and the Dreams of the Storyteller Series. I have also read the novels, Galen’s Way, and Galen’s Blade and eagerly await the two forthcoming offerings in that series. I have also picked up several of his other novels after reading the first few stories in this series. After the few stories by Paolinelli I read I am now trying to read one a week until I have read his whole back catalogue. Several of his stories and novels are towards the top of my ‘to be read pile’. Richard is not only an author but the driving force behind Tuscany Bay Books, I have read many volumes from the Bay by a number of authors, and all have been well worth the read. The six volumes in this collection dropped in 2023. Each of the five I have read to date have been previously published in anthologies. And once I have completed Paolinelli’s standalone works I will work through all the anthologies he contributed to, and look forward to rereading this story again when I get back to it. Much like I did with Declan Finn last year with reading a story a week until I have read all he has published. Over the last several weeks one of Richard’s stories has been every fourth or 5th volume read. This is another excellent story from the Paolinelli‘s pen. I said in a previous review that I have been aware of Richard and his works for a few years now. It is my loss that I did not dig into his works earlier. I strongly urge you don’t make my mistake, pick some up and give them a read! The description of this story is: “Most of Arthur Conan Doyle's Holmes stories were told from the perspective of Dr. John Watson. In this case, Winston Churchill recalls a time in his youth when he was accused of theft at school. At Churchill's beloved Nanny's insistence, Holmes and Watson are called in on the case. The future Prime Minister will receive a shooting lesson from Watson and learn a valuable lesson in mercy from Holmes himself.” It was fascinating to read this tale of a young Churchill being rescued by Holmes and Watson. Both of who provide invaluable service and lessons to the young ma, that help to shape him into the leader he became. This story was originally published in the anthology: Beyond Watson, from Belanger Books. If the other stories in that collection are as good as this, it will be one well worth tracking down, but back to this story. This is an excellent story and one I am very thankful I gave it a read! Prior to reading the other Sherlock offering from Paolinelli it had been a long time since I have read a Sherlock Holmes story. This one was another excellent offering. It is very well written story. Paolinelli’s stories fit in perfectly with the other stories I have read in both of official and unofficial Holmes canon. Paolinelli breathes new life into the characters and yet he remains true to their original creation. This is another great short story from Paolinelli’s pen. It draws the reader in quickly, it keeps your attention, and leaves you wanting more. Fortunately, Paolinelli has written 5 other Holmes stories. The characters are wonderfully written and fit extremely well in the history of the characters. I look forward to the other stories in this series and many of Richard’s other series. If you have not read anything by Paolinelli don’t make my mistake. Pick some up and give them a read now. There is a lot to choose from and I am sure you will be entertained. At the time of reading this I have read 418 books so far this year, and consider this one of the best stories. This story would be great for fans of the original Holmes stories, or the recent BBC Series. It would be great for fans of mysteries. And adventure stories. And to be honest for anyone who just loves a great short story! This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
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B0CD86MZGQ
| 4.61
| 3,343
| Nov 30, 2023
| Nov 30, 2023
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it was amazing
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As always I look forward to new offerings from the pen of Alex Smith, It has been so since reading his YA Furnace Series over a decade ago. I picked u
As always I look forward to new offerings from the pen of Alex Smith, It has been so since reading his YA Furnace Series over a decade ago. I picked up this title on release day but And devoured it in 3 days over 5 sittings. It is another excellent volume in a great series. I could hardly put it down. I got up very early to start it on release day, and stayed up way too late the next night reading. The description of this volume is: “Evil waits in the dead of winter... Christmas is just days away, and DCI Kett and the Extreme Crime Task Force are preparing to celebrate the festive season with some well-earned peace and quiet. But all hopes of a restful holiday are crushed when a man dressed as Santa Claus is found dead in the chimney of an old cabin. And he’s just the first. The hunt for a monster begins, but standing in the way is a cutthroat family of thieves, a bloody vendetta and a sinister cult led by a man known only as Saint Nick. In a town full of secrets, somebody knows the truth. But they’re willing to kill to keep it buried. And in this bleakest of midwinters, nobody is guaranteed to wake up on Christmas morning…” The story starts with youth camping, a cabin in the woods, and a chimney that just keeps giving. First a body dessed at Saint Nick drops from the chimney, and from the state of the corpse it has been there a while. While investigating that corpse, they discover the chimney has other gifts to drop on Kett’s team, or at least in front of them. And this leads them on a chase to find out the who, what, and why. They know the how, and the where. There is a family reminiscent of the Black Donnelly’s of Lucan\Chatham fame. A cult lead by a guy calling him self Saint Nic. And nothing is as it appears. Can Kett unravel the case before it becomes the death of him? To find out you will need to read this newest instalment in the DCI Kett series. This story did not go where I was expecting. It became much darker that I thought it was. And it leaves a new threat out there against Kett and his team. A highlight of the story was a phone call between Kett and Certain DCI from further up north. For fan of J.D. Kirk it is wort reading just for that exchange. If you have read the other DCI Kett books this one is a must read. If you happen to be a fan of rough and tough action you will almost certainly enjoy this novel. And the other books in the series. This is the fifteenth of the DCI Kett stories that I have read, the sixteenth novel where Kett makes an appearance. Kett made a brief appearance in The Harder They Fall, the first of the Softley Series of books. About the author we are informed that: “Alex Smith wrote his first book when he was six. It wasn’t particularly good, but it did have some supernatural monsters in it. His latest books, the DCI Robert Kett thrillers, have monsters in it too, although these monsters are very human, and all the more terrifying for it. In between these two books he has published thirteen other novels for children and teenagers under his full name, Alexander Gordon Smith—including the number one bestselling series Escape From Furnace, which is loved by millions of readers worldwide and which is soon to become a motion picture. He lives in Norwich with his wife and three young daughters.” My original introduction to Smith’s works were The Furnace novels many years ago. I have not read everything he has published but much of it. They are almost always edge of your seat thrillers. I still hope that someday he will finally release book 2 is the Softley Softley Series, but until then I am thankful for another read in this dark and gritty series. For some the Kett stories will be the things of nightmares, for others a look at the underside of society. But no matter how you read them they are crime thrillers with a lot of action, great characters and often a significant violence! This one has several surprises for Kett, the team and for us the readers! It is well worth the read. ...more |
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1593257147
| 9781593257149
| B0C59NNW1F
| 4.41
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| unknown
| May 14, 2023
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it was amazing
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I read this as part of Father Mark Goring’s Saint Mark’s School of Reading. I picked up the eBook to follow along, as a part time student. It was wond
I read this as part of Father Mark Goring’s Saint Mark’s School of Reading. I picked up the eBook to follow along, as a part time student. It was wonderful reading this with Father Mark’s weekly videos. The description of this book states: “The Holy Spirit is on the move throughout the Church! In this ground-breaking new book, Bishop Scott McCaig brings much-needed clarity to the important topic of charisms in the life and mission of the Church. He reveals how charisms are part of God’s plan for the whole Church and for each and every Christian, and are the means by which we fulfill the great commission Jesus has given us. This short catechesis provides a rich guide for anyone desiring to understand or deepen their experience of God’s gifts. “Bishop Scott McCaig has crafted a well-researched introduction to the Church’s teaching about charisms, their missional purpose, and their powerful impact. He addresses crucial the relationship between the charismatic and hierarchical dimensions of the Church, charisms and discipleship, and the role of every Christian in the essential task of discerning charisms.” —Sherry Weddell, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Catherine of Siena Institute.” Some other praise it has received is: “In this short catechesis, Bishop Scott has collected and synthesized the rich teaching of Scripture, the early Church Fathers, the Magisterium, the saints, and recent popes on the critically important but often misunderstood role that charisms are meant to play in the life of the Church. For anyone, whether clergy or laity, who is looking to lay hold of the Church’s fundamental teaching and pastoral understanding of the exercise of charisms, this short book is a good place to start.” —Peter Herbeck, Vice President and Director of Missions, Renewal Ministries “The whole Church needs more openness to the power and workings of the Holy Spirit. Bishop Scott McCaig’s book is an important contribution to preparing a way for this to happen. In a relatively short but comprehensive “catechism,” this book answers the questions that many people have about the meaning and exercise of charisms. May many benefit from its research and wisdom!” —Ralph Martin, STD, Director of Graduate Theology Programs in the New Evangelization, Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Archdiocese of Detroit “If you want to experience your faith less like a syllogism and more like a love affair, read this short book on the charisms. God is on the move, and he’s inviting us to be part of something dangerous and beautiful.” —Matt Fradd, Catholic apologist and host of Pints with Aquinas “Bishop McCaig addresses with insight the challenges and opportunities of embracing one’s charisms. I recommend it highly to all who wish to understand or deepen their experience of God’s gifts.” —Terrence Prendergast, SJ, Emeritus Archbishop of Ottawa-Cornwall The chapters in this volume are: Foreword by Dr. Mary Healy Introduction What Is the Official Teaching of the Catholic Church about Charisms? How Are Charisms Related to the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit? Were the Charisms Only for the Early Church? Does the Church Have Any Cautions about the Use of Charisms? Can There Be Contradictions between the Institution of the Church and the Charisms? Why Should We Discern Which Charisms the Holy Spirit Has Allotted to Us? Resources Notes I highlighted numerous passages while reading this volume, some of them are: “This subject is neither trivial nor of merely academic concern. We need to understand charisms because they are important in the life and mission of the Church. They are the action of the Holy Spirit, who is the very soul of the Church, and they are part of God’s plan for the whole Church and for each and every Christian. They manifest God’s providence, his specific call to each of us as individuals, and his passionate, all - embracing love for the whole world.” “The Sacred Scriptures tell us a great deal about charisms. We find the New Testament’s teaching on charisms primarily in the letters of St. Paul, but also in the first letter of St. Peter, as well as in many other passages that refer indirectly to charisms. Although the Greek word charisma has the general meaning of” gratuitous gift,” in the Scriptures the word has a very particular meaning. In Scripture, charisms refer to specific gifts that the Spirit distributes to individuals (see 1 Corinthians 12 : 10).” “To begin with, charisms do not flow from sanctifying grace (which is infused into the soul at Baptism), and as a result, they are unique. God gives them completely gratuitously — we cannot merit them. This means that growth in holiness does not produce them or demand them. Second, in every instance they require the direct intervention of God.” “It is critical to understand that charisms only make sense — and only have benefit for someone — if they are integrated into a life immersed in God’s love through prayer, sacraments, and good works, “a life transfigured by God’s presence. ”” “Most scriptural references to charisms are from the New Testament because” although the phenomenon, if not the name, of charismatic gifts was evident in the Old Testament (e.g., in Moses, the Prophets), the full outpouring of the Spirit was reserved for messianic times (Ps 67 : 19 ; Eph 4.7 – 13).” It is also important to note that” none of these lists claims to be exhaustive.” The range of diversity of these special gifts allotted by the Holy Spirit may be immense. In fact, St. Irenaeus explains that it is impossible to number the charisms. One obvious example is the charism of infallibility in matters of faith and morals, which is given, under certain conditions, to the Church’s shepherds (see Catechism, 890 – 892).” “It is important to note that while a few of the gifts are of an extraordinary nature, such as healing, deliverance, or prophecy, most charisms are seemingly very ordinary, such as hospitality, administration, or teaching. In God’s economy, each charism has its own place and importance.” “God gives many gifts to strengthen us, equip us, and empower us for good works. The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit received in Baptism and strengthened in Confirmation (wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord) are harmoniously related to the charisms, but these seven gifts and the charisms serve different purposes. The easiest way to understand the distinction is that” there are gifts of the Holy Spirit that we are given to keep and gifts we are given to give away. The traditional ‘seven gifts of the Holy Spirit ’ … are gifts given to us to keep.” Often referred to as the Isaiah gifts, they sustain an individual Christian in virtue and docility to the Holy Spirit.” “Why Do We Receive Different Charisms ? Charisms are distributed to the faithful” for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12 : 7), and this is why different charisms are given to different Christians : each of the faithful has a different function or mission within the mystical body of Christ (see 1 Corinthians 12 : 19 - 20).” “Charisms allow us to be channels of God’s loving power and to take on the mission of Christ in our own life, within our unique vocation and state of life. As the Catechism states ,” Grace also includes the gifts that the Spirit grants us to associate us with his work, to enable us to collaborate in the salvation of others and in the growth of the Body of Christ, the Church” (2003 ). The specific charisms the Spirit allots to a person reveal how God wants to use them to build up the Church and meet the needs of the world. This is precisely why it is important to understand which charisms God has bestowed on us.” “The Holy Spirit’s distribution of charisms within the body of Christ also reveals the loving providence of God, for” wherever there is a particular need, he has already poured out the charisms that can meet it.” 36 When there is a need in the Church, particularly in the service of her mission, the Holy Spirit provides members of the Church with the charisms necessary to meet that need.” “Pope St. John XXIII’s successors have often spoken of the authenticity of this effusion of gifts, the need for the charisms, and the need for radical openness to this move of the Holy Spirit in our time.” “While the word “movement” is still often applied to this effusion of charisms in the Church, it is clearly used in a unique manner. It is a current of grace rather than a particular defined program, devotion, or community. Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, OFM Cap, emphasizes this important distinction simply and clearly: “The Charismatic Renewal is a current of grace that is necessary for the whole Catholic Church.”” “The first caution has to do with rashly desiring gifts. St. Paul tells us that we should” earnestly desire the greater gifts” (1 Corinthians 12 : 31), but to be rash is to act impetuously or without careful consideration of the possible consequences. As we have seen, the gift of a charism comes with a serious responsibility to use it with sacrificial love for others. Exercising charisms may at times require courage and may test one’s faith, stretch one’s love, and cause personal trials.” “Charisms must also be exercised with trust and humble surrender: “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55 : 9). God’s will, not our own, must be our deepest desire.” “But it must be exceedingly clear that” it is not the Spirit who is in service to the institution, but the institution that is in service to the Spirit.”” “It is a grave mistake to think that the gospel mission can advance without the dynamic working of the Holy Spirit in and through individual disciples of Jesus. Institutional planning, strategic thinking, and human efforts are critically necessary, but alone they are not enough. They must be informed by, and empowered by, the Holy Spirit. As Pope St. Paul VI reminded us.” “It is imperative that we have expectant faith and responsive hearts because charisms” manifest the creativity of the Spirit and are given generously and often beyond all expectations.”” “Holy discontent and agitation for personal and institutional conversion is itself a work of the Holy Spirit.” “Although new experiences of the Holy Spirit may be initially unfamiliar, authentic charisms of the Holy Spirit will always glorify God, uphold the dignity of persons, and build up the faith of unbelievers.” “Discerning which charisms the Holy Spirit has given to a person is extremely important. It reveals a vital aspect of God’s plan for our life — namely, the mission to which God has called and equipped us.” “If you know your gifts, it becomes easier to say” no” when people ask you for things that you don’t really have to give. And because it is unusually energizing and fulfilling to exercise a charism, you are much less likely to burn out if you are working in your area of giftedness.” “Discerning a charism is best done with others and with the accompaniment of someone skilled in discerning charisms. Friends, fellow disciples, and qualified spiritual directors can tell us things we can’t see ourselves and help us recognize charisms that we would have missed. In particular, someone trained in discerning charisms can also help us see the difference between charisms, natural talents, and acquired skills, and understand how these work together for we know that grace builds on nature.” “Generally speaking, however, the discovery of charisms comes after someone has experienced a spiritual awakening, whether through a Cursillo, spiritual retreat, Alpha Course, CCO Discovery Faith Study, Life in the Spirit Seminar, The Rescue Project, or the like — in other words, after a” personal Pentecost ,” wherein a person experiences the Holy Spirit in a new way. It is this experience, with the deeper personal commitment to the Faith and the new discovery of charisms, that launches them into mission. There is an important lesson here.” “St. Augustine made a spirited defense of emotions and affections, and considered an insensitivity to the touch of emotion the worst of all vices. St. Thomas Aquinas taught that the more perfect a virtue is, the more passion it causes. As St. Philip Neri said so eloquently,” Let us aim for joy, rather than respectability. Let us make fools of ourselves from time to time, and thus see ourselves, for a moment, as the all - wise God sees us. ”” I hope those quotes give you a feel for this excellent little volume. This is one of those little gems you could return to time and time again, and always get something new or more out of the reading of it. It is a volume I know I have plans to return to. It is a volume that will bless, inspire and challenge the readers. I can easily recommend it to all Catholics. It was another great selection for the Father Mark Goring for his Saint Mark’s School of Reading It was wonderful to work through this book and follow along with the weekly videos. I can easily recommend this book. It is a great read! This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
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Nov 28, 2023
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Kindle Edition
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0938635492
| 9780938635499
| 0938635492
| 4.59
| 70
| Apr 1994
| Jan 01, 1994
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it was amazing
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I read this as part of Father Mark Goring’s Saint Mark’s School of Reading. A full time student sent me their copy after they had read it. As this was
I read this as part of Father Mark Goring’s Saint Mark’s School of Reading. A full time student sent me their copy after they had read it. As this was the first volume Father Mark had done that was not available digitally. But back to this volume. The description of this book states: “Every Christian feels a natural yearning of the heart towards God, a true desire to taste the sweetness of communion, of being with Him as He created us to be; but the impurity of our hearts--full of passions, conflicts, and fears--bars the way. Yet there is a cure for the weight of sin which burdens the heart and soul of each one of us and afflicts the conscience, keeping us from that longed-for inner peace and from peace with our neighbors and loved ones. That cure is the Mystery of Repentance. Archimandrite Seraphim in The Forgotten Medicine details the reasons many have for not coming to Confession, and for each of these he clearly brings forth the truth of the matter. For those who feel awkward because of not knowing how to approach Confession, he explains in depth how to prepare before, what to do when we are with the confessor, and what to do afterwards. He then writes of the wondrous changes in the lives of those who enter into the Mystery of Repentance, illustrating with several true accounts.” It is a deeply moving read. I highlighted numerous passages while reading the book, some of them are: “Archimandrite Seraphim reposed on January 13/26, 1993. He left us a precious inheritance: his books and his example of a zealous monastic life wholly dedicated to the service of the holy Orthodox Faith.” “IN READING these words, every Christian feels a natural yearning of the heart towards God, a true desire to taste the sweetness of communion, of being with Him as He created us to be; but the impurity of our hearts- full of passions, conflicts, and fears-bars the way. Yet, there is a cure for the weight of sin which burdens the heart and soul of each one of us and afflicts the conscience, keeping us from inner peace and from peace with our neighbors and loved ones.” “If such blessed transformation and heavenly consolation come through the Mystery of Repentance, why do we not hasten to partake of it? Archimandrite Seraphim in The Forgotten Medicine details the reasons many have for not coming to Confession, and for each of these he clearly brings forth the truth of the matter. For those who feel awkward because of not knowing how to approach Confession, he explains in depth how to prepare before, what to do when we are with the confessor, and what to do afterwards. He then writes of the wondrous changes in the lives of those who enter into the Mystery of Repentance, illustrating with several true accounts.” “Dear readers, have you asked yourselves: if our Saviour were to come, He Who is bringing the greatest gift-His heavenly grace with which He makes our souls happy and saves them-and if He were to seek a shelter for Himself in our souls, where could He find a place fit for rest?” “Jesus Christ, this wondrous heavenly Guest, often comes among us and wishes to enter under the roof of our soul. He appears among us through the unfathomable mystery of Holy Communion. He knocks on every door, longs to come into every home, desires to talk with every heart, wanes to make every believing soul happy and to give it His heavenly gift.” “We are all more or less unworthy of the Redeemer coming from heaven. Bur here, He is knocking on our doors (cf. Rev. 3:20). He Himself longs to come into us, because we are created for Him and without Him we are infinitely unhappy. He is coming to bring His heavenly gift to everyone.” “DEAR READERS, we are created for God, and only in Him do we find the paramount bliss for which our heart is constantly yearning. Nothing other than God can make our souls happy!” “These earthly misfortunes do not separate us from God if we are seeking Him sincerely, but, on the contrary, they bring us closer to Him.” “But we cannot hide anything from God. His eyes are brighter than the sun and penetrate everywhere. If we could take pictures of, or, with the help of some spiritual x-rays, see the hidden spiritual condition of each of us or of the whole of mankind as God sees it, we would be terrified!” “We must shed tears of repentance, because there are only two kinds of water which can wash away the filth of sin: the water of baptism and the tears of repentance.” “THE HOLY SACRAMENT of Confession can rightly be called "The Forgotten Medicine." The whole world is lying in evil. Every one of us is infected with the deadly disease of sin, and one can be cured from this disease! The medicine is provided, and it is miraculous at chat. You are healed the moment you rake ic. But we do not reach for it, to be healed and to lighten our conscience. Why? Because we have forgotten and neglected it.” “Repentance, this infinitely good gift, is given to you "at any rime of life, and it works with the same power for any sin: it cleanses every sin, saves everyone who turns to God, be it even in the last minutes before death."” “How does the forgiving of sins occur? - through the Sacrament of Confession. The Christian burdened with sins goes to the priest with deep repentance in his soul and with a sincere desire to change and reveals to him in a detailed, frank, and full confession the secrets of his heart and conscience. The priest, convinced of the sincere repentance of the Christian and after the suitable introductory prayers, reads to him the sacramental prayer: "May our Lord and God Jesus Christ, according to the grace and kindness of His love for man, forgive you, child [name], all your transgressions; and I, the unworthy priest, through the power given to me by Him, forgive you and free you of all your sins, in the name of the Father, and the Son, and die Holy Spirit. Amen." In that moment, whatever the priest is forgiving on earth is also being forgiven in heaven! Is there a greater mercy than this? We could not have believed that this is possible, if it had nor been cold us by the One Who never spoke an empty word or a lie (cf I Peter 2:22).” “But look what a simple salvation God has established for us: Go shew yourselves to the priests (Luke 17: 14). Confess your sins before them. Repent with all your heart, and you will free yourselves from the chains of evil.” “St. John Chrysostom, pondering on the miraculous results of sincere repentance, says: "Repentance is a medicine which destroys sin. It is a heavenly gift, a marvelous force which through the grace of God conquers the might and strictness of the laws. It accepts all and transforms all. It does not reject the fornicator, does not send away the adulterer, is not disgusted with the drunkard, does not loathe the idolater, does not neglect the slanderer, does not persecute the reviler nor the haughty man: it regenerates everybody because it is a furnace for purification from sin. The wound and the medicine, these are sin and Repentance" [Confession-author's note].” “A young monk complained to the great ascetic Abba Sisoes: "Abba, what should I do? I fell." The elder answered: "Get up!" The monk said: "I got up, and I fell again!" The elder replied: "Get up again!" But the young monk asked: "For how long should I gee up when I fall?" "Until your death," answered Abba Sisoes.” “No one says: "I will not wash my hands anymore, because I will get them dirty again!" But why is it then that many people say, "I will not go to Confession, because I will sin again tomorrow!" It is clear that the enemy of our salvation is enticing us not to wash our souls, so that he can gain power over them.” “Besides, Confession before a priest has an enormous instructive meaning. It humbles us. It cures our pride; it makes us blush savingly; it instills in us shame and fear and thus protects us from future sins. When we sin, we sin against the Omnipotent God, but we are not ashamed before Him because we do not see Him. In the same manner, when we confess before God, we do so easily, because we do not see Him, and it is as if we were talking to ourselves. But what shyness comes over us when we confess before the priests!” “Oh, Christian, I will say, it is not that shameful to disclose your sin in Confession, but it is shameful to remain closed in it, that is, to conceal it from your priest. St. Basil the Great said: "The hidden sin is an incurable sickness of the soul."” “4) We must consciously hide absolutely nothing before the priest. If we unwittingly forger a sin, we must confess it the next time. To conceal something for which our conscience is clearly bothering us would mean that we have doubled our sin: doubled, because one, we have committed it, and two, we have concealed it.” “7) During Confession, we must not tell of other people's sins, but only of ours, withholding whenever possible the names of the persons who have caused us to sin or whom we have tempted to sin with us.” “9) When we confess, we must put the blame not on others, but on ourselves.” “We see then what the rules are for a saving Confession: first, before we go to the confessor, we must examine well our conscience; second, when we are with the priest, we must confess sincerely, with a broken heart, and without shame and excuses; third, when we leave the priest, we must carry out our penance, put an end to the hostility, give up our impure life, and return that which is not ours. He who does not correct his behavior through Confession does not confess but talks idly, according to the words of St. Basil the Great.” “Wondrous are the consequences of true Confession! "The truly repentant man receives forgiveness for his sins, is reconciled with God, the Church, and his own conscience, and thus regains the precious filial striving towards God as his Father, and benefits from all the gifts of His fatherly love and kindness."” “A soul which confesses regularly is like a house which is constantly swept. Conscience always stands as a watchful guard in front of such a clean house in order not to let in anything which should not be inside.” I know that is a lot of quotes and I did skip over some of the lengthier ones. But I pray those quotes give you a real feel for the power in the words in this volume. It is an excellent read. The chapters in the volume are: About the Author A Note of Introduction The Rich Traveller Sin The Forgotten Medicine Objections to Confession Rules for a Saving Confession Consequences of True Confession Closing Questions Index This was another fantastic read selected by Father Mark Goring for his Saint Mark’s School of Reading It was wonderful to work through this book and follow along with the weekly videos. I can easily recommend this book, and look to track down the other two by the author. This is a great read! This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
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1910806218
| 9781910806210
| 1910806218
| 4.83
| 6
| unknown
| Nov 08, 2023
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it was amazing
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This is a wonderful collection of three stories in the unSPARKed universe. Each of the three tales contained in this collection are available individu
This is a wonderful collection of three stories in the unSPARKed universe. Each of the three tales contained in this collection are available individually as eBooks, and currently this collection is only available a print edition. The stories contained in this volume are: Liam and the Hunters of Lee'Vi A Truly Clawful Christmas A Very Jurassic Lent I have read each of the stories multiple times. Two of them in the anthologies they originally appeared in and the other as a stand-alone. My son has also read them to me. But he was excited to read them again in this collection. We also picked up a copy of this one for our school library as they have copies of the rest of the series. When the librarian was told about the history of the first story, she read it that day before adding it to the catalogue. The descriptions of the three stories are: “Liam and the Hunters of Lee’Vi CAN THEY FIND HIS FAMILY BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE? It’s Christmas week, but sixteen-year-old Tam and the hunters of the Lee’Vi are out looking for a pack of Utahraptors. Instead, they find a boy staggering through the snow, on a mission to save his family. Can they find them before it’s too late? A Truly Clawful Christmas CAN HE SURVIVE CHRISTMAS? If young city-priest Father Benedict can’t find more volunteers for his Christmas Bazaar, he’ll have to cancel it. But an unexpected appeal from his bishop leaves him facing a very different Christmas. Suddenly, complaints from disappointed parishioners are the least of his worries. His new priority—survival! A Very Jurassic Lent PERFECT FAITH—LIKE SAINT DESMOND. When a risky Ash Wednesday mission to sterilize T. rex eggs goes wrong, fasting is the least of Joshua, Darryl, and Harry's worries. Can they survive a protective Rex Momma and a pack of raptors, or will their Lent begin with tragedy?” A quick review of each tail, oops I mean tale is: Liam and the Hunters of Lee’Vi The story begins with Tam and the hunters of Lee ‘Vi hunkered down. All camouflaged and trying for a big bounty on a pack of Utahraptors who have become a nuisance to the farmers nearby. They are cold, tired and hungry for the big bunty. But their plans go sideways when they see a young boy trudging his way through the snow drifts. Apparently, the buys family went off the road. Both his parents were out, and his older sister hurt. So he has gone to try and find the main highway. Oh and his last name happens to be McEvoy. A story that will always be near and dear to our family. A Truly Clawful Christmas This whole story is told from the perspective of Father Benedict, or Father Ben. This is Father Ben’s long awaited back story. How did he become a rural priest, travelling unSPARKed from camp to farm, and travelling far and wide to take care of the spiritual needs of his parishioners. It recounts how he goes from city priest with a busy parish to living alone in the SOS van travelling the countryside. And his first day unSPARKed is a doozie. A Very Jurassic Lent This was a very moving story, like many others in the series. As is obvious by the title it is a story that takes place at the beginning of Lent. It Starts on Shrove Tuesday. Harry and Darryl learn a lot about Hunter traditions for lent. Including full fasts, and marking with ashes. In this story Josh has to cull a T-Rex nest. One that has a lot of personal history for him. And God provides a Lenten miracle. But to find out what happens you will need to read this excelLENT story! For those unfamiliar, unSPARKed is a series set in a not-too-distant future. Dinosaurs once again roam the earth. Just because a scientist could do something, did not mean they should have done it. Most people live SPARKed, in cities with walls and electrified fences. There are two groups of people who live unSPARKed, farmers who have electric fences around their farms and live in community with their close neighbours. And Hunters who live most of the time out on the road or off road in HabVI’s Habitat Vehicles. This a great collection of MASTERfully written stories. It is an excelLENT read by a gifted and talented author, and one of our favourite contemporary YA and Catholic authors at that! A volume we can easily recommend for fans of the series! And for those who wants a trio of tales in a world like what you would picture 50 plus years after Jurassic World Dominion. This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
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Nov 13, 2023
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Dec 2023
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Nov 13, 2023
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1910806994
| 9781910806999
| B0CLKYFS9W
| 5.00
| 3
| unknown
| Nov 07, 2023
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it was amazing
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Another amazing story in an excellent series. A deeply moving and powerful story! This story previously appeared in Ashes Visible & Invisible 10 Stori
Another amazing story in an excellent series. A deeply moving and powerful story! This story previously appeared in Ashes Visible & Invisible 10 Stories for Teens from Catholic Teen Books. I loved it the two times I read the anthology. And I devoured it again as a stand-alone short story in this volume. This is a masterfully written piece! I have read it three separate times now. This time as soon as I finished it I wanted to start reading it again. This is a FANtastic story in an AWEsome series. I have read stories in this series over 36 times now, not counting the ones I have read in anthologies. When my son was younger I read them to him, and mow he has read all of them to me, and reread them all on his own as well. We have been ordering them for my nephew his cousin, as he finished each we order him the next. We have also given a complete set to our school library that is how much we love these stories! It is a sign of how highly we regard these stories and Turner’s writings. I first read a story by Turner in 2015, and read the first in this series in 2017. Since then, I have read book by her a total of 69 times, and unSPARKed stories 36 of them. This story is available as an eBook short but also available in the print edition of Three Clawsome Tales which also contains Liam and the Hunters of Lee'Vi and A Truly Clawful Christmas. This story and series are excellent stories for teens, young adults and adults. The series keeps getting better and better! It has real staying power. When I am recommending this series, which happens often, I frequently describe it as a mashup of Mad Max, Lost World, and Jurassic Park, and I have recommended it to many, all who have enjoyed them. In many ways it is like 50 years after Jurassic World Dominion. We have even bought a full set for my son’s school library and know from the Librarian that they are very popular. unSPARKed is a series set in a not-too-distant future. Dinosaurs once again roam the earth. Just because a scientist could do something, did not mean they should have done it. Most people live SPARKed, in cities with walls and electrified fences. There are two groups of people who live unSPARKed, farmers who have electric fences around their farms and live in community with their close neighbours. The other are Hunters who live most of the time out on the road or off road in HabVI’s Habitat Vehicles. The description of this volume is: “Perfect Faith—Like Saint Desmond. When a risky Ash Wednesday mission to sterilize T. rex eggs goes wrong, fasting is the least of Joshua, Darryl, and Harry's worries. Can they survive a protective Rex Momma and a pack of raptors, or will their Lent begin with tragedy? From the Carnegie Medal Nominated author of the I AM MARGARET series, this thrilling unSPARKed short story provides a pulse-pounding introduction to the series.” This volume is told in a series of alternating first person accounts. The breakdown of chapters is: Harry 5 Darryl 7 Joshua 7 At the end of the volume is a series of discussion questions that can be used to test reading comprehension and retention or have a group discussion with. This was a very moving story, like many others in the series. As is obvious by the title it is a story that takes place at the beginning of Lent. It Starts on Shrove Tuesday. Harry and Darryl learn a lot about Hunter traditions for lent. Including full fasts, and marking with ashes. One of the Harry chapters ends with: “Josh and Darryl open their mouths—I scowl, cheeks hot, wishing I’d kept quiet. “No! I am not eating anything after God just saved you two like that. Forget it! Not one bite until midnight.” Darryl laughs so hard she holds her sides, and so does Josh. “What?” “Sorry, just picturing you hovering beside the fridge at one minute to midnight, waiting.” “Yeah,” smirks Josh. “’Cos I promise you, I shall be asleep in bed.” I have to grin, too. “Oh. Yeah. Guess I will be too. We are allowed breakfast tomorrow, right?” Josh nods. “Sure. Oatmeal. With the last of the ashes in it.” The ashes. We’re going to eat them. Of course we are. Welcome to Lent, hunter-style. For some reason, I’m becoming increasingly sure I want to be a farmer. Unlike my big sis. But we’re all alive. Yeah, after today, nothing a hunter-Lent can throw at me is gonna make me waver. Grumble a little, probably—but not waver. Thank you, God!” In this story Josh has to cull a T-Rex nest. One that has a lot of personal history for him. And God provides a Lenten miracle. But to find out what happens you will need to read this excelLENT story! Three CLawesome Tales released the same day as this volume, and a couple of weeks later What’s Done is Done was available. So many great books in a wonderful series in such a short time span. This story takes place over just 2 days. But it is a very moving read! This is another great read in a MASTERfully written series. It is an excelLENT read by a gifted and talented author, and one of our favourite contemporary YA and Catholic authors at that! A volume we can easily recommend for fans of the series! And for those who want a Jurassic park kind of Lenten story. This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
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Nov 13, 2023
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B0CDRCF1HN
| 5.00
| 1
| unknown
| Aug 04, 2023
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it was amazing
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When I started reading the Dreams of the Storyteller Series there were 18 volumes in the collection. Then it expanded to 20, and now it is compressed
When I started reading the Dreams of the Storyteller Series there were 18 volumes in the collection. Then it expanded to 20, and now it is compressed to 14. Six of the stories have been split off into a different collection called Sherlock Holmes Pastiches. I have read a number from each collection and I have picked up several anthologies that Paolinelli has contributed to, that I have not got around to reading yet. I have also read 2 novel, Galen’s Way, and Galen’s Blade and eagerly await the two forthcoming offerings in that series. I have also picked up several of his other novels after reading the first few stories in this series. After having read a few of the stories by Paolinelli I am now trying to read one a week until I have read his whole back catalogue. Several of his stories and novels are towards the top of my ‘to be read pile’. Richard is not only an author but the driving force behind Tuscany Bay Books, I have read many volumes from the Bay by a number of authors and all have been well worth the read. This was one of several new short stories that dropped in the collection Dreams Of The Storyteller. There are now , as mentioned, 14 volumes in that collection, the first 2 date from 2014, 1 from 2022, and the rest have dropped in 2023. After reading the first story I went back and grabbed the whole collection. Much like I did with Declan Finn last year with reading a story a week until I have read all he has published. At the time of reading this I have read 421 books so far this year. This is another excellent story from Paolinelli’s masterful pen. I said in a previous review that I have been aware of Richard and his works for a few years now. It is my loss that I did not dig into his works earlier. Don’t make my mistake, pick some up and give them a read! The description of this story is: “Sam Peck’s biggest worry was serving as best man at his friend’s upcoming wedding. Before long his biggest worry will be finding out whether or not he is the last living human being in the entire universe. This story was originally published in Planetary Anthology Series: Luna by Tuscany Bay Books.” This story has a different plot. With how much I read that is saying something. The world has changed suddenly, and with global impact. A Sam and one other survive the initial event at a station on the moon. After the other takes drastic measures, Sam must decide how much effort he wants to put in to survive. First he has to get back to earth and second he has to see if there is a way to survive on the surface. To find out the decisions he makes and the results he finds you will have t oread this excellent story. This is another fantastic short story. This was a story that as soon as I finished it; it went back into the ‘to be read’ pile. I have a feeling that once I have read the 16 volumes in the Dreams of a Storyteller Series, I will circle back and reread them in publication order. This is a great story in a wonderful collection. I can easily recommend it for fans of science fiction, classic scifi, or anyone who loves a great short story! This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
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Nov 08, 2023
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Nov 08, 2023
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Nov 08, 2023
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B01MRTCAPQ
| 4.38
| 265
| Dec 02, 2016
| Dec 02, 2016
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it was amazing
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First I want to note this story was previously available as a standalone volume both as an eBook and Audio book. Since that time it has been combined
First I want to note this story was previously available as a standalone volume both as an eBook and Audio book. Since that time it has been combined with 5 other short stories set in the Space Team Universe called, Space Team: A Lot of Weird Space Shizz: Collected Short Stories, and is considered volume 6.5 in the series. Weather you have access to the standalone version or read it as part of the collection, it is a fun read in a good series. Nearly a year ago before reading this I encountered the works of J.D. Kirk I also discovered that Kirk publishes children’s books as Barry Hutchison, and other adult fiction as Barry J. Hutchison. I have read 24 stories published under the Kirk Name and I am now branching out to the ones under the Hutchinson names. This is the 19th I have read under one of the Hutchison names. He is published over 200 books across the three pen names, and books he has ghost written. If I had known that or I might not have picked up this first one. Friends call me a ‘completionist’ in that when I find an author I like, I try to read everything they have published. I have enjoyed all I have read from his pen and this one was no different. This is the second in the Space Team Series I have read, and I have read the first in the spin off Deadman Detective Series. The description of this story is: “Die Hard meets the Nativity - in space! A Space Team short story. Having successfully saved the galaxy on his very first day in space, Cal Carver and the crew of the Shatner drop by the North Star space station for Kroyshuk - an annual celebration of peace and goodwill - and some well-earned rest and relaxation..” The introduction states: “Welcome to the Space Team Holiday Special! This short story is set between the events of the first two novels in the series, Space Team and Space Team: The Wrath of Vajazzle. While the title of the story is inspired by the hypnotically dreadful Star Wars Holiday Special, you can rest assured that there the similarities end. Mostly. This story was originally written as a free giveaway for members of Team Space Team, a group of readers who have signed up for notifications and news on the Space Team series, and who I regularly shower with free reads. If you’re reading the preview of this book and haven’t yet bought it, go ahead and grab it for free via my website. If you’ve already paid for it then, hey, at least it was cheap, and you can still grab some other free books at that same link, including an exclusive prequel to my Space Team spin-off, The Bug, and a short horror story, The Bone House. But for now, settle down, make yourself comfortable, imagine the cast of the story waving awkwardly at the camera while someone announces their name in an overly-enthusiastic manner, and enjoy this Space Team Holiday Special…” Even the cover asks: “So, Uh, This isn’t actually canon, is it?” again giving a hat tip to that ill fated Star Wars tv special. The team finds themselves on a station during a regional holiday. Due to Cal always finding a way to get into trouble they are soon protecting a pregnant woman from pirates, bounty hunters and just about anyone without a conscious. So unto the Space Team a child we be born. It’s not quite space Christmas, but it comes close for Cal, a human so far from home. This was another fun read. There is a lot of slap stick humour. Some over the top antics, and at times it is laugh out loud funny. This book and the series reminds me of several series and authors, most of whom, I read when I was much younger. So, in a way it was like a jump back in time for me. The first to come to mind was Harry Harrison’s Stainless Steal Rat series with his Bill the Galactic Hero series, the next was Robert Asprin’s Phule’s Company Series, it also brought to mind the works of Tom Holt and of course the comparison to Douglas Adam’s Hitchhiker Series are going to abound. But for all the sense of a mash up of these other series there is something different about this offering, and that is even more evident in this second offering in the series. The series now comprises 13 novels and 6 published short stories or novellas, and three side stories in this universe featuring Dan Deadman. Recently Hutchison in an article talked about how the first in this series was written to learn about self publishing so he could speak to school students about it. I for one am thankful he took the gig and started along this path. I think that has to do with Hutchinson’s characters and sense of humour. And the characters in this story are wild. Delenn in Babylon 5 states: “Of course it is, for the simple reason that no one else would've ever built a place like this. Humans share one unique quality. They build communities. If the Narns or the Centauri or any other race built a station like this, it would be used only by their own people, but everywhere humans go, they create communities out of diverse and sometimes hostile populations. It is a great gift and a terrible responsibility, one that cannot be abandoned.” Cal a low-level con man, who is scooped up from Earth by the Zertex corporation to help stop an intergalactic war, is that type of character. He builds community and he tags this odd assortment or military personnel, criminals, and a shape shifting blob and forges them into the Space Team. In this second story there is a lot of action, some body humour, and also some serious moments. I freely admit I have greatly enjoyed all the books by Hutchinson that I have read to date, no matter what name they are published under. This one is a fun read in an entertaining series, it is shaping up to be a terribly humorous series. It has more of a Young Adult feel to it than mainline adult fiction to me, but I am certain it will have fans in both categories. Another good read from the pen of Hutchison. ...more |
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Nov 07, 2023
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Nov 07, 2023
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Nov 07, 2023
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Kindle Edition
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B0CDRB8GG6
| 5.00
| 4
| unknown
| Aug 04, 2023
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it was amazing
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I have now read four of the 6 Sherlock Holmes Pastiches from the pen of Richard Paolinelli. When I first picked this volume, it was part of a collecti
I have now read four of the 6 Sherlock Holmes Pastiches from the pen of Richard Paolinelli. When I first picked this volume, it was part of a collection called Dreams of the Storyteller, but since then the 6 stories about Holmes have been split off into their own collection. I can recommend the short stories and novellas from both series; the writing is excellent! I love the stories in this collection. I freely admit I cannot help but picture Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman and Holmes and Watson, when reading these stories. My introduction to Richard’s works was a piece in the anthology Cracked. I have picked up several anthologies he has contributed to but have only got around to reading 2 of them. Right now I am bouncing around this series. I have also read the novels, Galen’s Way, and Galen’s Blade and eagerly await the two forthcoming offerings in that series. I have also picked up several of his other novels after reading the first few stories in this series. After the few stories by Paolinelli I read I am now trying to read one a week until I have read his whole back catalogue. Several of his stories and novels are towards the top of my ‘to be read pile’. Richard is not only an author but the driving force behind Tuscany Bay Books, I have read many volumes from the Bay by a number of authors, and all have been well worth the read. The six volumes in this collection dropped in 2023. Each of the three I have read to date have been previously published in anthologies. And once I have completed Paolinelli’s standalone works I will work through all the anthologies he contributed to, and look forward to rereading this story again when I get back to it. Much like I did with Declan Finn last year with reading a story a week until I have read all he has published. Over the last several weeks one of Richard’s stories has been every fourth or 5th volume read. This is another great story from the Paolinelli ‘s pen. I said in a previous review that I have been aware of Richard and his works for a few years now. It is my loss that I did not dig into his works earlier. I strongly urge you don’t make my mistake, pick some up and give them a read! The description of this story is: “Once upon a midnight dreary Sherlock Holmes, though not weak and weary, finds himself in a tale connected to forgotten lore. Now he must solve the mystery of an albino raven that seems to be a harbinger of death for the owner of the manor it has taken up residence in.” This story was originally published in the anthology: Sherlock Holmes Adventures in the Realms of Edgar Allan Poe, from Belanger Books. If the other stories in that collection are as good as this, it will be one well worth tracking down. But Back to this story. This is a an excellent story and one I am very thankful I have read! Prior to reading the other Sherlock offering from Paolinelli it had been a long time since I have read a Sherlock Holmes story. This one was another excellent offering. It is very well written story. Paolinelli’s stories fit in perfectly with the other stories I have read in both of official and unofficial Holmes canon. Paolinelli breathes new life into the characters and yet he remains true to their original creation. This is another great short story from Paolinelli’s pen. It draws the reader in quickly, it keeps your attention, and leaves you wanting more. Fortunately, Paolinelli has written 5 other Holmes stories. The characters are wonderfully written and fit extremely well in the history of the characters. I look forward to the other stories in this series and many of Richard’s other series. If you have not read anything by Paolinelli don’t make my mistake. Pick some up and give them a read now. There is a lot to choose from and I am sure you will be entertained. At the time of reading this I have read 418 books so far this year, and consider this one of the best stories. This story would be great for fans of the original Holmes stories, or the recent BBC Series. It would be great for fans of mysteries. And adventure stories. And to be honest for anyone who just loves a great short story! This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
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Nov 06, 2023
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Nov 06, 2023
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Nov 06, 2023
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Kindle Edition
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B0CDRB73FV
| 5.00
| 1
| unknown
| Aug 04, 2023
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it was amazing
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When I started reading the Dreams of the Storyteller Series there were 18 volumes in the collection. Then it expanded to 20, and now it is compressed
When I started reading the Dreams of the Storyteller Series there were 18 volumes in the collection. Then it expanded to 20, and now it is compressed to 14. Six of the stories have been split off into a different collection called Sherlock Holmes Pastiches. I have read a number from each collection and I have picked up several anthologies that Paolinelli has contributed to, that I have not got around to reading yet. I have also read 2 novel, Galen’s Way, and Galen’s Blade and eagerly await the two forthcoming offerings in that series. I have also picked up several of his other novels after reading the first few stories in this series. After having read a few of the stories by Paolinelli I am now trying to read one a week until I have read his whole back catalogue. Several of his stories and novels are towards the top of my ‘to be read pile’. Richard is not only an author but the driving force behind Tuscany Bay Books, I have read many volumes from the Bay by a number of authors and all have been well worth the read. This was one of several new short stories that dropped in the collection Dreams Of The Storyteller. There are now , as mentioned, 14 volumes in that collection, the first 2 date from 2014, 1 from 2022, and the rest have dropped in 2023. After reading the first story I went back and grabbed the whole collection. Much like I did with Declan Finn last year with reading a story a week until I have read all he has published. At the time of reading this I have read 417 books so far this year. This is another excellent story from Paolinelli’s masterful pen. I said in a previous review that I have been aware of Richard and his works for a few years now. It is my loss that I did not dig into his works earlier. Don’t make my mistake, pick some up and give them a read! The description of this story is: “Anne Fontana needed a getaway, a vacation all to herself. But some vacations are just too short. When she returns to civilization she discovers that the world has changed. To her horror, she discovers that she alone holds the power to save humanity, or change it irrevocably and she must choose before time runs out. This story originally was published in Planetary Anthology Uranus by Tuscany Bay Books. It is republished here with permission.” This story has a unique premise. And with how much I read that is saying something. The world has changed over a weekend. A scientist is one of very few people not impacted. She hold power of reversing the change or embracing it. But will humanity still be humans if she embraces it? To find out what she decides and why you will need to read this excellent story. This is another great short story, One that leaves you wanting more. This was a story that as soon as I finished it; it went back into the ‘to be read’ pile. I have a feeling that once I have read the 16 volumes in the Dreams of a Storyteller Series, I will circle back and reread them in publication order. This is a fantastic story in a wonderful collection. I can easily recommend it for fans of science fiction, classic scifi, or anyone who loves a great short story! This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
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Nov 06, 2023
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Nov 06, 2023
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Nov 06, 2023
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B0CCMC6K28
| 5.00
| 1
| unknown
| Jul 22, 2023
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it was amazing
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This is the fourth volume I have read from the pen of Griffing. This volume contains A story that has previously been published in the Planetary Anthr
This is the fourth volume I have read from the pen of Griffing. This volume contains A story that has previously been published in the Planetary Anthropology Sol from Tuscany Bay Books. I have that volume and the other 10 in the series but have not read most of them yet. This story was one of two mentioned during the Tuscany Bay Open House on Facebook, and I picked it and another short by Griffing during the live session. The description of the story states: “If ever you deal with the Fair Folk, mortal, these laws you must remember at your peril. Never give the Fae your word: it is your bond. Never give the Fae your name: it will be your binding. Never step over a Faërie Ring; neither eat nor drink of Faërie fare. And whatsoever else you do, never under any conditions become intrigued in Faërie politics! But King Oberon is missing, and James A. Dalworthy, of the Feliciana County Sheriff's Office, has been called upon to rescue him.” I had no idea what this story was about when I picked it up. But having read a few others by Griffing I knew I was in for an entertaining story, and I was correct. This was a great little read. I enjoyed it immensely. I had not read the description prior to reading the story. I just rolled with it as it came; which is much like the main character James A. Dalworthy. On the day he is made redundant at work on his walk home from the Sheriff’s office he encounters a knight in full armour. After taking the night for tea he is translated into the world of the Fae, and as he is told all is not as it appears. He must learn not to trust his eyes, his ears, and especially what he is told. This was an excellent read. Short form fiction is a very different art form from writing novels. The skills needed are different. From what I have read from Josh he is a master of short fiction. I look forward to rereading this volume again as I get around to reading the Anthology it was originally in. I would also have no concerns picking up the next offering from Griffing’s pen. This was a great read. I enjoyed this story tremendously. I would love to see other stories featuring James A. Dalworthy or the world of Fae as presented in this volume. I can easily recommend this volume! ...more |
Notes are private!
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Nov 03, 2023
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Nov 03, 2023
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Nov 03, 2023
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Kindle Edition
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1505101107
| 9781505101102
| B00ZD1VPVE
| 4.38
| 134
| Jan 01, 2009
| Jun 09, 2015
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it was amazing
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First I want to state that this is an excellent little volume. It is a great booklet. Second I first encountered this at the end of Stories about Purg
First I want to state that this is an excellent little volume. It is a great booklet. Second I first encountered this at the end of Stories about Purgatory & What They Reveal, as supplemental reading. It is also available as an eBook, Kindle, and booklet formats. During November 2023 I am reading through the book on Purgatory, and I picked up the eBook of this volume to read it during All Saints Day and All Souls Day. I am glad I picked it up and read the standalone version. But it is available as supplemental readings on a few of TAN’s other eBook titles. The description of this volume states: “Selections from St. Alphonsus' writings. Covers virtually every aspect of Hell. Shows it exists, describes its torments, proves it is eternal, demonstrates it is not unjust and answers a host of questions. Best short antidote for today's irreligion that we know.” The chapters and sections in this volume are: We Expect Reward or Punishment. Teaching of Pagan Philosophers Belief of Pagans Where Is Hell Located?. Catholic Teaching Hell Is a Definite Place. Pains of Hell Fire of Hell Can a Spiritual Soul Feel Fire? Punishment by Cold Remorse of Conscience Suffering from Devils and Darkness Pain of Loss of God Teaching of St. Thomas God Makes Heaven God Makes Hell Eternal Choice Is Made During Life Greatest Pain of Hell. The Damned Do Not Forget The Damned Know Nothing About Us. Do the Damned Have Faith? The Will Is Set on Evil Do the Damned Wish Evil to Others?. Case of the Rich Man in Hell Do the Damned Repent of Sin? Hatred of God Do the Damned Desire to Be Destroyed?. Punishment of Hell Is Eternal This Punishment Is Not Unjust How Punishment Is Measured The Patience of God Jesus’ Parable of Dives and Lazarus Fatima Children’s Vision of Hell Prior to the table of contents is this verse: “And I saw a great white throne, and one sitting upon it, from whose face the earth and heaven fled away, and there was no place found for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing in the presence of the throne, and the books were opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged by those things which were written in the books, according to their works . . . And whosoever was not found written in the book of life, was cast into the pool of fire.” —Apocalypse 20:11–12, 15 The chapters in this volume vary in length from single paragraphs up to 4 paragraphs. A few samples are: “What Will Hell Be Like? THOUGH many of the pagans were true atheists, considering Hell a fable invented to frighten the wicked, the more renowned of the ancient philosophers such as Socrates, Xenophon, Aristotle, Plato and others had no difficulty in admitting the existence of a future life—a Heaven where the good would be rewarded, and a Hell where the evil are to be punished. Only the most perverted of men will deny that there is a God, the Creator and Governor of all things. Such men would prefer to deny the existence of God than to face the just chastisement of their own misdeeds.” “Catholic Teaching Aside from these debatable opinions, a group of heretics known as the Ubiquitists maintained that Hell is not restricted to any determined place, but is to be found everywhere, since God has not destined any special place for the damned. This opinion, however, is evidently false, and contrary to the common belief of the Catholic Church which teaches us that God has established a definite place for the demons and the reprobate, as is evident from several texts of Sacred Scripture. St. Jerome deduces this specifically from a passage in the book of Numbers (Num. 16:31-33). Here is described the fate of Dathan and Abiron who were precipitated into Hell, falling into a chasm which opened under their very feet. At the same time a great flame burst from the earth and killed two hundred and fifty men who were accomplices in their sin. Moreover, in many passages of Sacred Scripture, the word “descend” is used in reference to Hell, indicating that Hell is situated in the bowels of the earth.” “Hell Is a Definite Place This assertion is confirmed by a passage of St. Luke (16:22): “But the rich man also died and was buried in hell.” The sacred text employs the word “buried,” because burials are made within the earth. Moreover, the rich man himself describes Hell as a “place of torment” (Lk. 16:28), confirming the opinion that Hell is a determined and definite place. In another place it is called a “lake”; “Thou hast saved me from those descending into the lake” (Ps. 29:3); and elsewhere, a pool: “And the devil who deceived them was cast into the pool of fire and brimstone.” (Apoc. 20:9). It is evident, therefore, that Hell is a determined place, and most probably situated within the earth. But as to where, precisely, it is situated, whether at the very center of the earth or nearer to the surface, cannot be determined from any revealed document. St. Thomas also declared that the dimensions of Hell, which will be the dwelling place of the damned after the resurrection, cannot be determined.” “Remorse of Conscience In addition to their sufferings from the heat and cold of the fire of Hell, Sacred Scripture enumerates a number of other torments which will afflict the damned. One of these is the “worm,” to which the Scriptures refer frequently. Some commentators have explained this “worm” as a material thing, which will feed upon, without consuming, the flesh of the damned. But most theologians explain it metaphorically as the remorse of conscience which will afflict the damned in the fire and darkness of Hell. Forever will they have imprinted on their memories the results of their sins; forever will they repeat the words ascribed to them in the book of Wisdom: “We have erred from the way of truth, we wearied ourselves in the way of iniquity and destruction and have walked through hard ways. What hath pride profited us? or what advantage hath the boasting of riches brought us? . . . Such things as these the sinners said in hell.” (Wis. 5:6-14).” “Teaching of St. Thomas St. Thomas describes for us perfectly in what will consist the happiness of the elect and the torment of the reprobate. Insofar as his intellect is concerned, the Saint remarks, man will find complete joy in the vision of God; but, insofar as his affections are concerned, he will find complete satisfaction in the permanent union of his will with the infinite goodness of God. On the other hand, the torment of the damned will consist in being deprived of all divine light in his intellect, and in finding his affections obstinately turned away from the Divine Goodness. Elsewhere the saintly Doctor teaches that, though the punishment of the fire will be more terrifying, this separation from God is, however, a greater torment than that of the fire.” And the volume ends with this piece: “Fatima Children’s Vision of Hell (NOTE: In 1917 Our Blessed Mother appeared six times at Fatima, Portugal to Lucia dos Santos and Jacinta and Francisco Marto, three small children. During the course of these six world-famous apparitions—now approved by the Church as worthy of our devotion and propagation—the Blessed Virgin Mary made several startling statements and predictions, among them the outbreak of World War II if people did not change their lives. During the July 13 apparition, she allowed the children to see a vision of Hell. Following is Lucia’s description of what they saw.) At this point, Lucia was heard to say aloud: “Yes, she wants people to recite the Rosary. People must recite the Rosary.” The Lady’s face then grew very grave and she said: “Sacrifice yourselves for sinners and say often, especially when you make some sacrifice: ‘0 my Jesus, this is for love of You, for the conversion of sinners, and in reparation for the offences committed against the Immaculate Heart of Mary.— At these words, she opened her hands on the three children once again and the light streaming from them seemed to penetrate the earth, and the children beheld a vision of Hell. Lucia cried out in terror, calling upon Our Lady. “We could see a vast sea of fire,” she revealed many years later. “Plunged in the flames were demons and lost souls, as if they were red-hot coals, transparent and black or bronze-colored, in human form, which floated about in the conflagration, borne by the flames which issued from them, with clouds of smoke, falling on all sides as sparks fall in a great conflagration without weight or equilibrium, amid shrieks and groans of sorrow and despair that horrified us and caused us to tremble with fear. The devils could be distinguished by horrible and loathesome forms of animals, frightful and unknown, but transparent like black coals that have turned red-hot.” Full of fear, the children raised their eyes beseechingly to the Lady, who said to them with unspeakable sadness and tenderness: “You have seen Hell where the souls of poor sinners go. In order to save them, God wishes to establish in the world devotion to my Immaculate Heart. If people do what I ask, many souls will be saved and there will be peace.” Lucia later stated that although the vision lasted “but an instant,” she felt they would have died of fear and terror if Our Lady had not already promised to take them to Heaven.” I hope those samples give you a feel for the volume. The booklet is listed as 24 pages, the eBook 21, and Kindle 22. It is a small volume, but it is packed full of great material. I keep seeing meme’s that state something along the lines of “Life is short, eternity is long … prepare for it.” This is a little volume that will help with that preparation. And inspire us to be praying for friends and family, as well as working out our own sanctification. This is an excellent little booklet. I can easily recommend it. This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan! ...more |
Notes are private!
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4.33
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4.70
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4.83
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it was amazing
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5.00
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it was amazing
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4.38
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it was amazing
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5.00
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it was amazing
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it was amazing
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it was amazing
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Nov 03, 2023
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4.38
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it was amazing
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Nov 2023
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Nov 01, 2023
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