The Christian and the Vampire by Vikki Kestell

I have read this short story (34 pages, I think) three times now. The second time was because I did not write a review from the first reading. This third time is because I felt it needed to be honoured for the faith and redemptive fiction that it contains and how Kestell has applied the Word of God in the most appropriate way that is more than effective in witnessing and leading to a relationship with God to what some might say is a fictional being. But she also shows how this same Word of God can be applied to any human being who feels they are unredeemable. No wonder the Bible states that it is the power of God unto salvation (Romans 1:16) and that the power of God is sharper than a two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the ideas and thoughts of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12).

Based on the above, I have awarded Vikki Kestell with a Redemptive Fiction Award as this novel now meets The Reality Calling Christian Fiction Awards criteria. Please see the end of this review. 

The Christian and the Vampire: A Short Story

What happens one sultry summer night when a Christian and a vampire meet on a fire escape and agree to engage in a cordial conversation? A touch of hilarity, plus eye-popping—and Undead heart-starting—revelation, as vampire myth and legend give way to greater Truth!

The Guru's Review:

This is the second time I have read The Christian and the Vampire and I did this for 2 reasons. One, I did not write a review of this when I read it in December 2014, and two, it is worth reading again purely for the way the story is structured to allow the many bible references and their explanation to move the story along and show the power of the Word and how it defeats all claims that being a follower of Satan (in this case, as a vampire) is more attractive and beneficial than being a follower of Christ. 

This is the third Christian story involving the question, "Can a vampire be saved/redeemed?" The first one I read was Blood for Blood by Ben Wolfe and the second was Devil's Pathway (DAWN: Warriors of Valor Book 1) by Vicki V Lucas. I do have another waiting to be read. All these three authors share the same premise that indeed they can be redeemed, and I would also say the same for werewolves. The latter has been dealt with in this same vein by William Woodall, in his The Last Werewolf Hunter: The Complete Series. 

Kestell has constructed this short very well with the placement of the bible verses that portray what the bible says about redemption, salvation, Christ's victory over sin and death, Satan's judgement, the penalty of sin, consequences of refusing Christ's gift of salvation in relation to Lambros being a vampire. Very cleverly done structuring the plot around the verses or is it that she constructed the verses around the plot? Hard to tell when it is done this well. It struck me that this short could be used to minister to a satanist or someone who is so very bound in their sin/sinful lifestyle and feels there is no hope for them including anything that God has to offer.

I guess another reason I wanted to read this again is that it reinforces where all Christians have come from, including myself; a past of sin, rebellion against God, and this short story shows what the bible says about our past and our future. It is always good to return to one's roots to appreciate where one has come from and where one is now. I have a greater appreciation of the Word, what Christ achieved for me on the Cross and everything relating to all the doctrines outlined in the previous paragraph.

Kestell uses humour to add spice to this short. It also adds to both the character building of Taz and Lambros. Kestell has also portrayed Taz as the discerning, well versed in Scripture, spiritual warrior that Christians all need to be as the whole essence of becoming a Christian means that we have taken one side against the other in this spiritual warfare that we are involved in.

Apart from the bible references that make this short rich in spiritual warfare, I loved how Taz was so in tune with the Spirit when ministering to Lambros. Again, this is another part of our spiritual armour. The final spiritual warfare scene at the end of the short involving a warrior angel and demon is very dramatic and I loved the way Taz states that he was not afraid of this tangible evil presence that descended on both Lambros and himself as he knew who he is in Christ and the protection that is his as a consequence of this, 

I felt no fear for myself - I am, after all, one of the redeemed of The Lord. Satan has no legal footing in my life.

I applaud Kestell for this short. I feel it is quite a masterpiece of construction, however simple. This story would be very effective for small group bible study on spiritual warfare and witnessing to those who are heavily involved in satanism or other satanic groups or as I mentioned previously, those who are so caught up in their sin and feel there is not hope for them or a way out. I would love to see a discussion guide added to a future edition of this short. 

One highlight that I found very useful is in the kindle version where each reference to a bible verse or piece of conversation that was based on a bible verse or doctrine, had a link to it that you could press and the verse would appear in a separate, mini window on the screen. This would benefit bible study groups or the individual that are seeking God. All the individual would have to do is put themselves in the position of Lambros, not as a vampire, but as one who is enslaved to sin and Satan as Lambros was.

This is one very entertaining, edifying but sobering read of spiritual warfare, who Christians are in Christ, what Christ has achieved for everyone on the Cross and the hope that exists in Him that is rife in His Word. 

Highly Recommended. 5/5 Stars

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Spiritually, based on my review and on the following reference booklet,

A Spiritual System for Rating Books by David Bergsland, and that The Christian and the Vampire contains elements of the criteria of what constitutes Christian Redemptive Fiction outlined in this booklet, (click on the title below to see what this is based on), I award Vikki Kestell with 

Christian Redemptive Fiction Award by Reality Calling

Congratulations, Vikki!

To read a preview or buy this novel, click on the BUY or PREVIEW icons below.

Sudden Mission by Guy L. Pace

Sudden Mission

Satan, once one of God’s favorites, now His Adversary, grows impatient with the plan and begins to harvest souls. In a fell swoop, he throws reality out of whack and the world into chaos. God calls on Paul and his friends Amy and Joe to set things right. The young teens journey through a messed up world—with a little help from an angel—struggling against everything the Adversary can throw in their path to accomplish their Sudden Mission. 

With their world and their parents’ lives hanging in the balance—and the Adversary sending everything from zombies to Samurais to stand in their way—Paul will discover if he has the strength and faith to set things right again and stop Satan’s harvest.

Click here or at the end of this review to read a preview.

The Guru's Review: 

I liked the description of this book when I discovered the author from Vox Dei Publishing on Twitter. I reviewed another author from this company and I like how this company conducts its business, treats its authors, promotes its novels and its attitude towards Christian fiction. So I decided to buy this novel and support another new Christian author.

I don't usually review young adult fiction, but I am willing to support new Christian authors and if I like the description, this genre is fine with me. I am glad I read Sudden Mission. This novel showcases Pace's creativity and for a debut novel, he has succeeded in crafting a fast-paced, action-filled novel that I can see why it appeals to the teen/young adult audience. Pace admits that he is geared towards writing for young adults and this novel shows that very well. I have not read many novels in this genre but for those I have, I have enjoyed, and I did enjoy this one. 

Pace shows great creativity in this novel. He has blended zombies, crazed monks, aliens, a demon possessed coyote, white and black destructive fog and a messenger angel into an end-times (eschatological) scenario that while on the surface may appear as if it is a mismatch of characters and events but works well under the guise of satan manipulating time, space and events to bring the apocalypse forward and force the Hand of God. Looks like he learns the hard way that you cannot force God's hand!

Pace constructed this novel with many challenges that Paul, Amy and Joe encounter as they travel from their home in North Carolina to Choteau, Montana. Their faith is not only tested but strengthened as they learn to rely on God and not themselves. What I liked was portraying these teens as strong and mature in the Lord, despite their doubts and questioning their faith when facing the many challenges satan threw at them along their journey to fulfilling the mission that God ordained for Paul, Amy and Joe. I can see that this would be encouraging for teens and young adults as Pace has not sugar coated or made these three protagonists seem perfect or fake, but as ones that this age group would relate to and identify with. I see that this is one area where Pace shines in his desire to minister to teens/young adults with the Gospel. I was very impressed with the confrontation at the end of the novel where Paul engages in spiritual warfare with the demon possessed coyote. This was very well done and very true to biblical principles of spiritual warfare. This is what teens/young adult need to be living out and demonstrating in their lives as the days grow darker before the Coming of the Lord. They are our future and they need to be spiritual warriors of Christ. I applaud Pace for being so daring as to include this principle that should be so common in the Christian's walk and behaviour but sadly is not in today's world.

This is what I love about this type of Christian fiction. I call it Spirit-filled fiction. It honours God, it educates the reader (in this case specifically in spiritual warfare, trusting in God and not on yourself), it strengthens the reader's faith, it shows what a relationship with God should be like, it shows how to live the Bible through their life and allows God to be God and His Spirit to reign and have His way in the situation the protagonists are in, living victoriously in Christ's victory over sin and death. It definitely reminds me of Zechariah 4:6 that says, 

not by might nor power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord

Pace has succeeded very well here and it makes this novel shine. I pray that Pace continues this standard in future novels. So many young are searching for meaning and purpose in their lives, that us adults may not have had to the intensity they experience today, and to have an author portray teen characters show faith, character, maturity, being real with flaws and needs while taking a stand for what is right and for the Author of their faith and against evil and the Adversary (satan) , I believe can sow a seed in a teen/young adult reader who wants more out of life, who is searching for purpose or who wants more from the Christian life than what they are getting so far. Pace seems to have positioned himself in the gap here for this age group and may well be placed to fill this void. 

My only gripe would be that the coyote promised many trials leading up to the final confrontation but this did not happen and the ending was a bit rushed. With everything leading up to this point, it would have been more satisfying and fulfilling to have had the ending a bit more fleshed out and not have the reader suddenly at the end of the book with nothing left. However, it is Pace's first attempt at novel writing so this can only improve as he masters his craft better in the future. This is one very good start to his being a published author.

I look forward to reading the next novel in this series. I am very glad to have come across Guy Pace when I saw his book being advertised on Twitter. 

Strongly Recommended 4/5 Stars

One Nation Under gods (Abbaddon's Sword, Book 1) by Grace Walton

One Nation Under gods (Sword of Abbaddon Book 1)

From bestselling Inspirational Romance Author- Grace Walton. Book One in her new Swords of Abbaddon series- One Nation Under gods, a Dystopian Inspirational Romance. 

This is a novel of what ifs. What if, through the centuries, the Christian religion remained a small house church movement? What if it never became a mainstream faith? What if the Bible had never been gathered together from the many and disparate scrolls of wisdom existing to encourage and nourish those first few early Christians? What if one repentant, forgiven Nephilim/Half-Breed Angel family remained? One family so committed to Christ, they dedicated a man in every generation to serve God in a most horrifying and sacrificial way? What if?

Half-Breed Angel Salem D’Angelis has his life all planned. He’ll run the family’s vast Texas ranch. He’ll marry a local girl. He’ll start a family. He’ll escape his family’s celestial curse and live an ordinary quiet life. Then it appears - the supernatural summons marking him as the Sword of Abbaddon. Now without flinching, he’ll use his preternatural skills and gifts to be God’s Destroyer.

Lily Meade comes from small-town Pagan royalty. Her grandfather is the High Priest of the Pantheon Church of beachside Providence Point, Texas. Her Nana is the church’s hereditary Oracle. Lily will inherit that position if she completes her one-day service as a Temple Servant. But how can she be a prostitute, even a holy one, for 24 long hours? 

Their lives collide one hot summer night. She’s running away. He’s stoically facing his destiny. Salem knows his life is almost at an end. Lily thinks hers is just beginning. The only things standing between them and ultimate destruction are ten righteous people and one tattered scrap of Holy Script. 

Love is powerful and often used as a weapon. But can it or any puny human effort, ever truly stay the Sword of Abbaddon? 

The Guru's Review:

When I saw this book on the Free Read Feed site (free kindle books), I had some reservations about downloading this to read. You see, it contains one of my favourite topics, the Nephilim, and a genre I am not so fussed on reading, Romance! The last thing I wanted was for this book to be yet another of the myriad of paranormal romances between angels and humans, even from Christian authors! Yet what helped convince me was two things, there were very edgy speculative elements in the plot and Amazon classified this as Religious & Inspirational Fiction > Science Fiction & Fantasy and not paranormal romance. Christian science fiction and fantasy are some of the genres I review and I love novels that contain edgy, speculative elements. Seeing it was free, I considered I had nothing to loose.

I do, however, know that an author makes a book free to increase the book's exposure, including promotion by word of mouth, and hopefully get some sales and reviews in the process. So writing a review would not be an issue for me as I review every book I read.

The edgy, speculative elements in this novel I found very intriguing and wanted to see how this author would blend bible truth, doctrine, Christian romance, the redemption of the Nephilim (on its own one very edgy, speculative and controversial topic!), spiritual warfare, demonic possession, demonic curses and enchantments without compromising the Gospel. Sounds like a very complex and challenging feat for any author! I must say that after reading this novel, I can quite honestly say Walton has successfully achieved this. All the above elements are blended in seamlessly into the world building that she has created. I am not a romance reader, but I do enjoy the inclusion of romance if it is not the dominant topic of the novel but is part of the many other elements/topics or plot lines. In this novel, such is the case. I really enjoyed the romance between Lily and Salem, and it seems Walton excels in this area (of romance) as she has achieved this in her previous novels, not that I have read them, but the reviews say so!

I loved the supernatural elements between Salem's lineage and Lily's. A violent clash between good versus evil, the angelic versus the demonic, the Omnipotent versus demonic power, God's Word versus a demonic counterfeit gospel. All this created an increasing level of suspense and tension throughout the entire plot, especially between the developing relationship of Lily and Salem, the fulfillment of the special mission from God that He has bestowed on the D'Angelis family, and the evil taking over Lily's grandmother. 

I was impressed that Walton is not afraid to present the Gospel in this novel. It needed to be in order for Lily to know the truth and decide to accept Jesus and for any reader who is a non-believer to be exposed to this too. I guess also, that because Lily grew up in a pagan/demonic cult and is very disillusioned in it, then it makes sense for her to know the truth behind this pagan way belief system and this truth can only lead to Christ. I must say though that the Gospel elements are not preachy, not contained in only one conversation or single part of the plot but is interspersed throughout as we see Lily learn about God, His Word, repentance, forgiveness, salvation, mercy and Christian/Biblical living leading to her conversion. 

Walton has depicted the sexual promiscuity of thought and behaviour typical of pagan/satanic worship and it is not just hinted or mentioned but is slightly graphic in speech and innuendo especially as part of the attitude of Venus who is a product of this pagan cult and her dislike of it. At first I was a bit annoyed at this, but then realised Walton is only depicting how people would act in an environment where many cults co-exist with their lack of sexual morality and where Christianity is the extreme minority. I was glad that this was so and not the attitude of this Christian author. As far as Venus is concerned, this depiction of her being a product of the pagan cult dominant in sexual promiscuity, showed the spiritual deficit and sense of hopelessness that she felt and it was this that led her to finally realise that it is the God that Salem and Lily follow that she needs.

What I found interesting was the specific speculative elements relating to the background of the spiritual mission that God had bestowed on the D'Angelis family. Here God had chosen the D'Angelis lineage as Nephilim to be granted forgiveness and salvation and for a male member or each generation to be the Sword of Abbaddon who would be used by God to eradicate that current city if this appointed Sword could not find an unpublished piece of Holy Script and 10 Christians (Christians are in an extreme minority in the culture depicted in this novel). If so, then God would spare this city and apocalypse would be avoided. Once Salem accepts and dedicates himself to the role of Sword of Abbaddon, repents from his life of sin, deepens and furthers his relationship with God, that forms the springboard for the Gospel to be presented to Lily and for him to show the Love of Christ to her and live out the Gospel in his life. I really enjoyed this and I applaud Walton for portraying this in a Christian character that could also be seen as an ideal Christian male role model. It was great having Salem's brothers be part of the plot towards the end with their different spiritual powers and them being a band of brothers to rescue Lily as assist in Salem's mission as the Sword of Abbaddon. 

Another area where Walton shines is plot development and how the various plot lines are tightly interwoven and interconnected. This makes the plot flow very smoothly and contributes greatly to the building of suspense and intrigue. No wonder myself and other readers say this is one book that you cannot put down. 

Walton ties all the main plot lines together very nicely for those concerning Salem, Lily, and all the support characters and leaves the reader with a plot line open for the continuation of this series, this next one being about Salem's younger brother, Rome. 

I am really looking forward to the remaining two novels in this series. Walton states on her website that this novel is her first foray into the speculative Christian fiction genre and she does this very well and I say this as one who reviews in the majority of this genre. She has proven from this novel that she is quite a natural at it. I would love to see Walton explore this genre more once she has finished with this series. 

Highly Recommended.

Light Brigade by Peter J. Tomasi (Author) and Peter Snejbjerg (Illustrator)

Light Brigade

Still reeling from the horrors of World War II, Chris Stavros-an American soldier-has one goal: getting home safely to care for his son after learning his wife has died. But in the midst of battle and trying to stay alive, he finds the stakes raised, as heavenly warriors emerge from the skies-and an impossible task is given to Stavros's platoon: recover the lost Sword of God before a troop of arcane, unkillable German soldiers locate it and storm heaven's gate! These American soldiers, this "Light Brigade," will begin a supernatural crusade that will determine the fate of the world... one bullet and one soul at a time! 

The Guru's Review: 

If you think the cover looks like a comic, you would be correct. Graphic novel to be exact, although that is just the modern name for what I grew up as a comic. I had this graphic novel on my wishlist with Amazon for more than 5 years, did a random check on it yesterday, and was pleased to see that it had been converted to the kindle format. I wanted this as it deals with the genres I love, the Nephilim, supernatural, spiritual warfare, military, angels and demons. The 4-5 star reviews were another drawcard.

Despite its 224 pages, this only took about an hour to read as the graphics take up the majority of the page space. I am really glad I was able to buy this now, as this was one great story. 

This would be the second WWII story I have read and also the second one that deals with the occult and the supernatural in this same war. The previous one was The Fist of God (The Agarthi Conspiracy) (Volume 1) by M. E Brines. 

Set against a WWII backdrop in Belgium towards the end of this war, this story is composed entirely of the supernatural. This composition has the last of the Gregori, (angels charged by God with watching over the human race) and the Nephilim, (the offspring of the sexual union of the Grigori with human women,) two warring angels, an immortal Roman centurion, Marcus Longinus, (who pierced the side of Christ while He hung on the Cross), supernaturally powered artifacts from the Crucifixion, the eternal flame of Christ's Cross, the Monks who have guarded these relics for centuries, a supernaturally powered sword, and a supernatural baptism the US soldiers have to enable them to fight the remaining Grigori and the Nephilim in preventing them from exacting revenge against God for wiping out their race in the biblical flood. 

All these elements fit really well in the conflict of the German and American armies as they meet in Belgium, the German army with a hidden agenda and the American army none the wiser, except for one member of this army. 

Tomasi provides a brief history of the Grigori and the Nephilim, and the biblical flood that nearly wiped them out. From this it reveals the origin of the revenge of this last Grigori, who is transformed into human form as Colonel Zephon, of the German Army. This backstory provides much-needed depth and suspense to the supernatural aspects of this story and acts as a cohesive bond to the plot.

Another aspect of this cohesive bond is the character of Marcus Loginus, the Roman Centurion who has been charged by God to do a special mission involving the Grigori then he will go to be with the Lord. So in the German army we have the last Grigori, in the guise of Colonel Zephon and in the US army we have Marcus in the guise of  soldier Mark. Tomasi also provides the history of Longinus that led to this special mission that culminates at the end of the story. In effect, we have then two supernatural leaders of opposing forces, one good, one bad, leading to a final explosive end. 

Tomasi brings all the supernatural elements together for one fast paced, good versus evil battle using supernatural and physical warfare, with an increasing toll of life as a result but a very satisfying end all round.

Tomasi's story and the artwork of Snejbjerg make this one very enjoyable read and an entertaining education in the history of fallen angels and spiritual warfare.

I would love to have seen this also made into a full-length novel as I feel the back stories and more of the plot and characters, especially those of the American army, would benefit from more depth and fleshing out. But maybe I say that because I am not a graphic novel lover. However, I am still very glad I read this graphic novel, it adds a nice element to my collection of novels in this genre. 

Strongly recommended.

The Eden Conflict (God's Warriors Book 1) by Peter Way

The Eden Conflict (God's Warriors Book 1)

The war between good and evil erupted long before mankind ever walked on this Earth. Since Adam took his first steps, Satan and his followers, the demons, have sought to destroy and control the souls of mankind. But the protectors of God’s creation are always close by. Who are they? They are the good and the just, they are the angels and the saints, they are… GOD’S WARRIORS! 

In the small country town of Eden, Jack leaps off a stone pier, prepared to land in the storm ravaged waters of the bay. Instead, he finds himself instantly transported to the Garden of Eden. Jack is returned to Earth by the guardians of the Lord’s garden and into the care of an elderly minister. Unknown to any of them, there was a witness… 

Six months later a guardian angel discovers a new den of demons in a building project in far north Queensland. The den has more than three times the usual number of guards. The angel knows he has found the lair of one of The Seven Deadly Sins, the biggest and nastiest of Satan’s demon forces, his generals. Why are they here? What are they building? Whatever the answers are, Michael, the Captain of the Heavenly Host, needs to know of this place. But before the angel can do anything, his charge, a reporter named Glen is chased from the lair. Can the angel protect Glen, find answers to his questions and still get a message to Michael?

The Guru's Review:

I love the feeling that one gets when they read a book blurb and they continue reading their interest intensifies, their grip on the book or mouse tightens and they suddenly realize this is a book they have to read. Such was the case when I read the blurb for The Eden Conflict. Another factor for me was the fact that this was an Australian author who had also set this novel in Australia. As an Australian, I knew I would feel right at home, and I did.

This is Way's debut novel and he has created quite a tale! This is not one short or average length novel but a grand one, of 532 pages. And it is packed with action, suspense, the supernatural, the angelic, the demonic, deception, the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, His sovereignty, spiritual warfare, and interspersed throughout a faith building and edifying account of the reality of spiritual warfare and the power of prayer. 

Way admits to basing this novel on the style of Frank Peretti's This Present Darkness and it definitely shows. He seems to have been influenced so much that he has taken this genre to the next level. I have read Peretti's book twice (and its sequel) and can see that Way has expanded on the spiritual warfare, prayer, supernatural, demonic and angelic aspects that Peretti has constructed so cleverly and Way has added many more to enhance those of Peretti. I by not means intend to imply, by this observation, that Way's novel is better than Peretti's. The latter holds a special place in my reading appreciation for creating this unique genre of Christian fiction and I hate comparing one author on the same genre with another. It is a great compliment though for authors to base their novels on the original author's works of these genres, just like fantasy authors have been inspired by the original creators of the fantasy genre, those being Tolkien and Lewis. 

Way needs to be applauded for keeping the action and the many plot lines well connected and flowing smoothly. This prevented me from being disconnected from the plot and wanting to give up, especially with this longer length. There is a lot that happens in this novel and even though the pace slows down in some parts, there is enough happening here to keep you reading till the next plot development. 

The spiritual aspects are superb. Way shines in presenting everything backed up biblically and any embellishments from poetic licence do not detract from this biblical truth. His angels are just as they are biblically presented, messengers, warriors, guardians and totally submitted and surrendered to God and to honour and glorify Him with their very existence and roles. There are very many presented in all these roles and I am sure most readers will become attached to at least one during the course of their reading. Mine were Michael and Daniel. 

Way has a few of his characters accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour. This happens to one of the main characters and Way uses this to add an evangelistic tool to present the Gospel to the reader. I was impressed with his use of bible verses to show the spiritual deficit and need for Christ of this character and also how it fitted in with that particular plot line she was involved in. I find it sad that some Christians resent inclusions of salvation encounters and I don't know why. Sure, it makes the plot slow down somewhat and some would see this as detraction from the plot, but in a novel of this genre and plot that involves spiritual warfare, I find it very fitting and appropriate. Way also includes many prayers of the Christian characters, especially Glen, one of the main characters, and again, it saddens me that those same Christians would also have these removed from novels if they could; however, like the salvation reason, in a novel of this genre and subject matter, it is appropriate to have the prayer in full and not just mentioned that the character prayed as in some other novels. We are after all talking about spiritual warfare, the battle of angel versus demon, good versus bad, satan's rebellion against God, and over the souls of humankind and where they will spend eternity. 

I really loved and appreciated Way including the Holy Spirit and the presence of Jesus as well. He has captured the Spirit's character very biblically, and the angels in relation to Him represents their role biblically and the scene where Jesus is depicted and what He does is also true to Jesus' nature and is backed by the Bible as well. 

Having salvation account(s), full prayer portrayed, and spiritual warfare principles, all intertwined in a fast-paced, supernatural thriller like this one only reinforces my attitude concerning Christian fiction, that it should encourage, edify and entertain. And it does so very well in this one. I especially loved the account from Michael to Saint Peter of the days of creation from the angels point of view. That was refreshing. 

I know some readers do not like reading glossaries, appendices etc, but in this novel, due to its complexities in plot structure, hierarchy of angels and demons and biblical doctrines, it would pay the reader to read these after the completion of the novel, as I am sure some readers will question why Way did what he did on some of these topics and these appendices will help to quell any criticism by explaining his methods and reasoning. Authors need to do this with novels that have sensitive or controversial topics and it adds to their credibility as authors. These 5 appendices show that Way has researched the topics in his novel well and it is this that I appreciate very much in novels of this genre. 

Way describes it this way (excuse the pun!) from Appendix 1,

I found that there was a lot of information about angels and Heaven. The only way I could decide what I thought was good enough to use or not was to weigh it up against the Bible. Bottom line, if the Bible didn't back it then I didn't believe it or use it. However, I have embellished some things, which you will not find in the Bible. What you will find is that the Bible does not contradict it either.

Just as Way has depicted the angels with their different roles and hierarchy, he has also depicted similar with the demons. This works well with the type of demon, their ranking and submission to their leaders in relation to the plot lines that involved them and their destructive, negative influence on the humans that they are assigned to. I really appreciated the appendix that explains more about them. These are depicted as very evil, despicable, hateful of humans and especially of all things relating to God and His angels. Way has structured the demons to specialise in influencing and tempting their human charges in the various vices that humans experience such as lust, greed, deceit, depression, anger, etc. Above these are 7 Princes of Darkness and a subgroup of psychic demons.

I must make comment that for a debut author, Way has taken care in constructing the fight scenes very convincingly and I would love to know if he researched this at all, has prior experience in sword fighting or is just a natural at writing as he sees it in his mind. Either way, he is very convincing. All this does is add credibility to the whole plot and overall enjoyment of the novel.

Looking at all this, I can say that this is one hard to put down novel. To get the best enjoyment from this, you need to devote long periods of time to savour and appreciate the action, suspense and layers of intrigue and spiritual encouragement that this novel brings.

Way ties up all the plot lines very nicely leaving the reader hanging at the end with the seeds sown for the next instalment and from this, it seems the next one is going to be just as good or better than this first offering. I can hardly wait.

Highly Recommended. 

Prodigal Lost: Oasis of the Fallen, Book 1 by E.L. Pearson

Prodigal Lost: Oasis of the Fallen

Is he really destined to exist in the catacombs of human life, unable to die and unwilling to live?

Another name in another city; Mason Standing feels he’s in the twilight of life…if his life would end. That’s why his torturous existence makes so much sense. An angel who fell with Satan didn’t deserve comfort and happiness. Mason exists; he no longer lives. Until he meets a pair of hazel eyes and his bitterness turns to desire for this artist who can steal his breath with just her touch. But his past won’t let him rest. The Devil would find him here too, in the sordid French Quarter of New Orleans just like he found Mason in every other place in the world for centuries. This eternal vendetta would not be satisfied until Mason would see another he cared for dying in his arms as she is sacrificed to the Devil as the purest of blood on earth.

Centuries ago, Mason had severed himself from the factions of Lucifer. It all started in Rome and the catacombs with his desire for the light, to fight once again for what he believed was his true station. He belonged to God, and back in his Graces was where he would be again, if it took an eternity to accomplish. Each night in New Orleans, Mason vividly dreams about his struggle to get back into the folds of God’s creatures. All the sin that surrounded him, the Nephilim offspring of the other Fallen, Babylon…it was all rushing back to him. He fell with the others, but he never knew why. Did God listen to even a demon as he had been called? Was redemption possible for him? Would he find forgiveness and be allowed to return to the light of Heaven, welcomed by Jesus? As he remembers this previous life, he begins to see the signs that the Devil had found him again.

It was time to take a stand – starting with the voodoo shop down the street. And this time, Oasis wouldn’t be lost, unless Mason was. Accompanied by another reformed fallen angel Mac, Mason has a renewed purpose - find his way back just as he had done before, but it had to be soon. Pursued by a relentless mob of Lucifer’s committed followers, he has no choice. He must conquer the Devil where he hides and put this chase into his own terms before it is too late. And when he awakes to find both Oasis and Mac missing from a room with signs of struggle, the fight between good and evil has begun.

The Guru's Review: 

I don't know what preparation E.L. Pearson undertook for this novel, but it has definitely paid off. Whether it is just her natural talent and passion for writing and her research of this subject matter, or this coupled with any writing course, instruction or mentoring she has been trained in, the end result is a well-crafted and comprehensive novel. If any reader does not know that this is her debut novel, they would be convinced that Pearson is one very experienced and seasoned author.

I find this novel gives her a grand entrance into the world of fiction and especially in the emerging and ever-evolving genre of edgy, Christian speculative fiction. Pearson may have well found her niche in this genre. There is no shallowness on any level, everything seems to have been developed well; characters, plot, pace, atmosphere, even the edginess and speculative elements. It is one very well rounded work of creativity. 

This could also have been due to Pearson's writing. Just as any piece of writing, whether fiction or non fiction is enhanced by a well developed command of the English language, so is Paradise Lost by Pearson's command of English. I found this added a richness and depth to the construction of this novel. Descriptions were specific and easily pictured in my mind, dialogue realistic and portrayed the emotion of the character and what they intended to say, the plot flowed smoothly and connected each scene. The author showed and not told what was happening. The overall effect was that I was engaged throughout this entire novel.

I really appreciate that Pearson has included an Introduction where she outlines why she has written about this subject matter. I encourage every reader to not skip over this Introduction, as the subject of fallen angels is controversial enough (the edgy element) without throwing into the mix the concept of them being redeemed (the speculative element) when the Bible states that they are imprisoned until judged by the Lord after He returns. Pearson explains her curiosity concerning these two topics especially the latter and I pray that it encourages the critical or sceptical reader to consider for a moment the 'What if....?' question that makes a topic speculative. I consider this to be a clever tactic as without this explanation, the critical or sceptical reader ends up having a field day being critical as to why this author had the audacity to go down this path in a Christian novel (I can here the word Heretic being shouted!) and then starts to deconstruct everything else the author has created. With this Introduction, Pearson gets her motivation and reasoning out there to quell any potential criticism and attack on her credibility as a debut author. It also prepares and enables any noncritical/nonskeptical reader, the one who is simply curious about this subject matter, to jump into the plot and be better entertained and given plenty of things to consider and investigate without any previous bias. On another level, it is just plain, good old information to hear from an author about a hot potato of an issue that they are writing about! This adds to their credibility as an author and their novel.

Pearson very skillfully creates two worlds that Mason and Marchosias inhabit, the past in Rome where they served satan under sufferance and humiliation, fell in love and found redemption, and the present where they are living in New Orleans having escaped satan's dominion and but always on guard, ready to defend their freedom and find their true purpose as redeemed (as outlined in The Authorless Book, that is Mason's prized possession). Both worlds are very different from each other, the former mentioned I found very dark and tense but balanced with the joy of finding love, being redeemed and trying to honour God while the latter mentioned is lighter, serious, but action packed as Pearson brings everything to a head and ties everything up very nicely and sets the stage for the next volume. How these two worlds transition between each other is effective as the world of Mason and Marchosias' past is relived in Mason's dreams and the reader is transported back and forth as directed by events in Mason's present or by God speaking directly to Mason's mind. 

One thing that impressed me about this novel is that the characters are very real and well developed. I related to the mateship of Mason and Marchosias, these two compliment each other very well and I found I related on two levels, individually and as a mates/friends, inseparable. I am very fond of these two. Any reader will be drawn to the sincerity of Mason and his determination and passion to be reunited with God and his love for Him. And for Marchosias as well for his loyalty to Mason and devotion to God. They both remind me of a Paul and Barnabas type friendship from the Bible. Pearson has also created a strong character in Oasis, she is vulnerable, mysterious, independent and I get the impression that she may be in the next instalment as well.  I became very fond of Sybl as the almost damsel in distress with Mason as the knight in shining armour to her rescue, while Marchosias seemed the big brother protector type to Lumenesca despite his love for her. I am pleased that Pearson has not dealt satan with the nice card but has depicted him as the lying, devious, conceited, hateful, defiant, malicious and spiteful (to name a few traits, I could go on!) entity that befits his prideful rebellion against God. 

I loved how this author depicted the path to Redemption that is scattered throughout the majority of the plot. Including the use of a book, The Authorless Book, and found in the Library of satan's lair (and by the sounds of it, not even he knew it was there), was a very clever tactic and served to pique the reader's interest throughout as to how and when this would take place. I found it very satisfying and successful in that it needed to be a constant thread throughout the novel as this was its main theme. 

Pearson needs to be applauded for the way she has depicted the spiritual warfare elements in this novel. They are depicted true to their biblical origins and what is says how they should be applied. It was good to see the principle of obedience where Mason obeyed God's call in what to do and say when the final confrontation between himself and satan and that in the Name of Jesus, demons and satan must flee. Even though that was only a short piece of writing, it was one very exciting piece of narrative and stands out as to how a Christian can confidently, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, stand up and be victorious against demonic forces in our lives. 

There is only one aspect that I struggled with. I am not one for romance as a genre even in Christian fiction, however if romance is a subplot to the genres that I read, then I do enjoy that. However, I cannot fathom or understand the romance that Pearson has included in Mason's past once redeemed and his present. Before he was redeemed, I can understand him falling for Sybl and Marchosias for Lumenesca, as they would have been like the other fallen angels, where desire for human women was the norm, but as a redeemed angel, this is not part of their attitude and behaviour and not what is expected of them from God. This is also the case with Mason towards Oasis in the present, where he expressed his feelings towards her. It was desire for human women that was part of the angel's sin in the first place so based on this, I don't understand why including romance as a redeemed angel and one that is on a special mission from God was necessary. I am sure Pearson has a reason for this, I just don't see it and find it confusing. 

From what Pearson has achieved in this novel concerning fallen angels' redemption, I can see that the remaining novels are ones that are going to be action packed as more of the edgy speculative elements of her original premise are explored and revealed. As with most readers, I am already impatient for the remainder of the story. How I wish that the whole series could be written first and then released about 6 months apart. Ted Dekker has done this successfully and I am sure a few other authors have as well. However, this is a very affirming compliment for any author to hear and one that I am sure forms part of the basis of their continuing  to write.

I strongly recommend this edgy, Christian, speculative, well crafted novel by this aspiring new author and one that we need to support and encourage. I am glad I approached Pearson to review her work. It has well been worth it.

Crazy Moon (Lou's Bar & Grill, Book 1) by Frank B. Luke

Crazy Moon (Lou's Bar & Grill Book 1)

Welcome to Lou's Bar & Grill where the house special looks like a bargain but will cost more than you think. Lou and his staff have everything a person could want, and they know the best way to present it to you.
After being stood up, werewolf fanatic Laney McMurphy went to Lou's to forget her sorrows. To her surprise, Lou offered her a place in the local pack. To progress within the pack's ranks, she'll have to give in to her wild side. And most importantly, she'll have to indulge her wrath. Each victory means a step up in rank. What she knows about wolves will help. What she doesn't know just might get her killed.

The Guru's Review: 

Every since reading Blood for Blood by Ben Wolf, The Last Werewolf Hunter: The Complete Series by William Woodall and Devil's Pathway (DAWN: Warriors of Valor Book 1) by Vicki V. Lucas, I have become more curious in seeing how Christian authors treat the subject of vampires and werewolves from the Christian/biblical worldview. These authors have treated this subject very well, all very plausible and well grounded in the Biblical perspective from this worldview.

I came across Crazy Moon by Frank B. Luke from him being one of the newest authors who joined The Crossover Alliance that I am involved in. I knew this to be a short story, all 23 pages long, so was not surprised it took close to an hour to read.

I found this to be a fun read! Yes, there is the killing that goes with werewolves and vampires (not graphic) but that is avoidable with this subject matter, but I was more interested in the spiritual side of this plot. In one sense I was disappointed in that there is none to see except that it outlines the contract established between the devil (yes, satan) and the main character, Laney, and that by agreeing to become a werewolf, this means she has sold her soul to the devil and an eternity in Hell. It would have been nice to have had it balanced a bit more with the other side of this spiritual doctrine, that is, whether there is any chance of redemption such as is portrayed in the Blood for Blood novel, The Last Werewolf Hunter series and alluded to in The Devil's Pathway novel previously mentioned.

At first I was annoyed that this had not been established but then realised that there is only so much that can be packed into a short story of this length. Based on this, I do hope that Luke investigates this more in future shorts in this series. It would be good to see what Luke comes up with from this Christian/biblical worldview. 

My only criticism is that despite Laney intrigued and fascinated with everything to do with werewolves from the media, and its folklore, she is portrayed as accepting too easily Lou's offer of becoming a werewolf without much thought of the spiritual side of it. As Luke explains, 

Just the standard contract I've been offering for centuries. Your soul upon death for becoming a werewolf until then.

I knew it, she muttered. If you're the Devil, there's a catch.

Everything is spelled out in black and white. Laney, whether you sign or not, upon death, you will enter the afterlife and go to one of two destinations. I am amassing an army for the war that will follow the end of the world. If you take my offer, you can be an officer in that army.

The contract looked solid, and she couldn't spot any loopholes for him to exploit. She signed her name with flourish.

I am also hoping that Luke expands more of this plot line in future shorts. If he does, then this series shows encouraging scope in both these plot lines from a biblical worldview.The other reason I say this is that Luke is described in his bio as writing, 

fantasy and science fiction to explore God's truth in fantastic ways. He finds such story-theology connects with readers on both cognitive and emotional levels. 

Strongly Recommended.

Interview with Alessandra Dagostino, author of Murray Pura's Preacher Man Series II, Wicked Christmas Complete Series

Preacher Man Series I, was a great reading experience for me. Written by Murray Pura, well constructed, 4 short episodes involving spiritual warfare, satanism, devil worship and standing firm in Christ, using the power of Christ's victory over sin and death. Some great lessons for every believer in spiritual warfare. Very edgy Christian speculative fiction at its best!

At the end of this Series, there was a general feeling amoungst readers of this series that there needed to be a second series. All of us fans were excited and heaved a sigh of relief when, so soon after the finish of Series I, it was discovered Series II had been released and surprised that there was another author in the helm instead of Murray Pura! And what a wonderful surprise and authorship Alessandra Dagostino has turned out to be! This second series has been well received and I know from myself and another fan that Dagostino has taken this to the next level, more anticlimaxes, more spiritual warfare, more victories in Jesus name and by His Spirit, and more edgy, speculative plot lines. 

Now that Series II is complete and having enjoyed this immensely, I am impressed with the talent and creativity that Dagostino has shown in creating this series, so I really felt it would be great to discuss this with her. 

So sit back, kick your feet up, grab your favourite drink and let yourself enter Alessandra's world. Be prepared, she is very passionate about her spiritual warfare and this lends itself very well to Preacher Man Series II!

But before we begin, here is what all the excitement has been about: 

Murray Pura's Preacher Man Series II, Wicked Christmas Complete Series 

Volume One - Sweet Evil 

A castle in Germany. Christmas is on the way. Snow is on the mountain peaks and carols are in the air. But the castle holds a dark secret. So dark that Preacher Man has to be reactivated and sent into the thousand year old citadel to put things right. But this time the evil is above and beyond anything he has experienced before. It is so powerful and so invasive it is enough to bring a strong man to his knees. Even a saint. Even Preacher Man.

Volume 2 - Bad Angels 

The atheists want to take the Christ out of Christmas. So does the secular crowd. So does all the Wicca and pagan organizations. Now the satanists do as well. They want Christ out and the devil in. And they have sent some very fallen and very lethal angels to make their dream of a Christless Christmas come true, a Christmas where Satan and overindulgence rule and love and goodness cease to exist.

Volume 3 - Carpe Noctem 

Angelika was a devil worshiper and raised to hate him and trained to kill him. But now, to her shock and surprise - and anger - she has fallen in love with him, Preacher Man, the great enemy of hell and the devil and all the children of darkness. Now she is a cauldron of confused loyalties and mixed emotions. Now she has to choose between destroying the man she loves and staying faithful to Satan or turning to God and fighting by her lover's side. As the supernatural battle within the Castle boils out onto the mountain slopes of the Brocken, Angelika has only Christmas Eve to decide where she will place her heart. 

Volume 4 - Christwalkers 

The battle to prevent Satan's incarnation moves quickly from Germany and then to Rome. Soon even Angelika is taken from Preacher Man's side and he is all alone. Exhausted, weakened, having spent hours and hours without food or drink in the midst of vicious spiritual warfare, he must face a devil at the peak of his powers, a devil strengthened by the spells of his followers and the blood flow of their human sacrifices. Preacher Man is a christwalker and will make his final stand in the power of the Christ. But will his faith, tied as it is into his very human soul, be enough in his fight against the Prince of the Power of the Air?

Alessandra, thanks for allowing me to interview you! After reading Preacher Man Series II and being totally entertained, I wanted to find out more about you as a new author and discuss Series II. So let's start. Tell me about yourself! 

I am a very private person so my bio will reflect that but you’ll still learn some things about me.

I became a Christian at nine. I may have been young but I knew what I was doing and it was a significant experience for me. My commitment has been life-long and I attend a vibrant church in Florida that has real depth.

I began modelling as a child in Italy. I was ten and my father had a two year sabbatical. Mostly we hung around Roma, Caserta, Napoli, Firenze, and Perugia. I now have my own small modeling 

agency in the US.

Martial arts began when I was 12. First I learned judo, then Shotokan Karate, and then Tae Kwon Do. To that I added BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu), kick boxing, and Krav Maga. My nickname is “Letale” in Italian and מֵמִית in Israeli, both of which mean lethal or deadly. I move quickly, I win 99% of my fights, and that includes against men. A man usually does not take a woman martial artist seriously until she has him in a hold where he must tap out or pass out. I find flying kicks, arm bars, leg scissors, and rear naked chokes most effective in bringing my (generally) bigger and heavier opponents to submission.

I am also trained in the use of various 9mm and 45 handguns, the M16/AR15, the AK-74, HK MP5, and various shotguns. I also know how to use and defend myself against a knife.

I use my martial arts skills and weapons skills in my part-time work with a private security firm.

I began writing stories in high school but am only now beginning to write for publication.

I became involved in Christian deliverance ministries on a visit to Italy and Europe when I was 18. I stay connected with reputable people who undertake this ministry in the USA and frequently assist.

For various reasons I have to use different names and different portraits. Catch me if you can. The real Aless is out there and writes the stories you read and many of the pictures are her. 

And I really am 24! Just like the TV show with Jack Bauer!

You have one very interesting background! What was the motivation to be trained in martial arts, and the use of guns and defence in being attacked with a knife? These disciplines are not common for women to embrace, but I feel both genders need to be able to defend themselves.

Bullying from girls in school made me want to get fit and defend myself. And I had a couple of boyfriends in my teens who were into martial arts so I started learning about it with them. I continued long after they had left. Being fit and strong made boys challenge me in the schoolyard so I had to keep pushing myself to be faster and stronger than them. I learned the knife skills in a special self-defense component at a Shotokan Karate dojo. Learning about that and how to us swords (katanas) naturally led to wanting to learn the necessary skills for other weapons like firearms. 

In your bio, you state that you started writing stories in high school. What was your motivation or inspiration for this?

It was the bullying and survival experiences that got me journalling. Then I started writing stories where the chick was strong enough to defeat all bullies, physical and supernatural. It was my way of coping.

What has surprised you the most about becoming an author?

I have been surprised that people can relate to my stories, stories that originate from my heart and imagination. Wow, that is very encouraging to me!

How has writing and being an author impacted further on your relationship with Jesus Christ?

Remember that cool line from Chariots of Fire? “When I run I feel His pleasure” – yeah? That’s what I feel from God when I write with all the power and passion I have welling up inside of me.

Can you divulge to your fans something that you like to do when you're not writing?

Well, when I work out, I train very intensely and it’s 7 days a week. When I do heavy bag punching and kicking, the sessions are 2 hours long. But I also like long worship evenings where there’s lots of sincere and genuine spontaneous prayer and music that is inspired, I believe, by the Spirit of God. When I am out with friends or on a date, a good time is drinking coffee at a nice café & talking the night away.

How did you come to write the Preacher Man Series II?

I got to know some authors who wrote for the publisher and they asked me to submit some material. Murray Pura did not have the time to devote to writing Preacher Man 2, and because he liked my writing style, he asked me to consider writing the series. Believe me, I was anxious going in!

This series has been long awaited from what Murray Pura started in Series I, how did you feel about continuing this from the standard Pura set and him being such a successful and prominent author in Christian fiction?

Yes I was spooked but he was encouraging; so was the publisher. It became easier as I continued. I know I imitated his style a lot at first, so I worked hard to break free and develop my own style, one that is uniquely mine.

Was there any challenges you faced writing Series II?

I wanted to up the ante and make it more intense than Series 1 on as many levels as possible. That’s just me. I have the same attitude when I fight in martial arts and when it comes to my other disciplines. My friends call me Octane and Maxxed Out or Maxx for short. Wasn’t sure I could pull it off. Looking at the reviews, it appears I may have! 

All reviews have been 5 stars, indicating that Series II has been very well received. Were you expecting this and how does this make you feel as a new author?

Oh I am surprised, and it’s so encouraging! I thank God I can be myself in my writing, expressing the extreme and “maxxed out” attitudes I have from my fighting experience, and show my crazy Italian-American personality, and yeah, have my readers accept me like this. 

I presume that Murray Pura would have handed over plot developments from Series I for you to further, did you have any say in these before you wrote them?

He asked me to work from the castle in the Germany setting and with the Incarnation of Satan at Christmas storyline. There were supposed to be pretty sinister femme fatales and Preacher Man was supposed to get into some real hot water from the powers of darkness. I took it from there.

What kind of reaction were you hoping to receive from readers of Series II?

Well, I was hoping that my reader could handle the intense portrayal of evil that accelerates from each Volume. I did have my doubts. I actually thought a lot of readers would dislike that intensity even though, IMO and in my experience, it’s accurate. We do not advertise the series on traditional Christian book sites for this reason. So I guess the positive response did rock me a bit - but in a good way.  

Preacher Man Series I and II are classified in the edgy, Christian speculative  fiction genre. You have started your writing career in this relatively new and evolving, but not currently, well accepted or understood, genre of Christian fiction. Had you considered writing in a safer, better accepted and recognized mainstream genre of Christian fiction first?

No, I personally don’t like the cookie cutter or formula writing that I see in some other Christian fiction genres, so I have no desire to go there. I find that in some of these genres, it isn’t anything like the real world and sometimes that includes the equally real paranormal world of angels and demons. 

Your bio states that you have been involved in deliverance ministry since you were 18 yrs of age. That would imply that you know about demon possession/oppression, devil worship and satanism, I guess collectively the occult. Can I presume that what you have described in the volumes for Series II relating to the occult is based on what you have experienced and know? Any part of your description of the occultic practices are poetic licence?

Yes I draw on my personal experiences when I write about spiritual warfare but it’s still fiction and although fiction is based on real experience, it is still about what might happen, not always what did happen. For instance, I have never seen a clash of celestial beings on the level of what I describe in the bowels of the castle on Christmas Eve, but who knows? It might look like that.

One of the expectations I have of Christian fiction, all genres, is to not only entertain but to educate. I feel that Series II (and Series I) does this very well. However, there are, sadly, some Christians that would steer away from a series like this due to its occult themes, being ignorant and/or fearful of the occult, and therefore miss out on the spiritual insights into biblical spiritual warfare and the reality of the occult. What are your thoughts on this?

My thoughts? If someone does not want to read about spiritual warfare, that is their decision. If they don’t read about it because they're afraid, then they are putting their head in the sand and missing a golden opportunity to learn about this. It’s like a Navy Seal being afraid to tangle with ISIS or the Australian SAS being intimidated by local terrorists. Christians are the first responders when it comes to spiritual warfare. If they are afraid to fight the powers of hell then no one will be available to stand and defend the human race. Through Christ's death on the Cross and His victory over sin and death, He has given us the power of His Name and His Spirit alone to defeat the power, rule and dominion of Satan and whoever stands with him. Why should any Christian be afraid of the enemy when God is on our side and has equipped us? 

What message do you want readers to obtain from reading Preacher Man Series II?

I want the reader to realize that the danger is there, it’s real, and can be defeated, but not without faith and courage. “The whole world is hostage to the devil,” Paul tells us. It’s our job as Christians to rescue the hostages. Our job. No one else’s. So let’s put our boots on the ground and boldly go in Christ’s name and in His Spirit where angels fear to tread. 

Your readers want to know if will be a Preacher Man Series III. Any comments? If there is not to be a PM III, what is your next writing challenge? Would you mind giving an exclusive glimpse of what is to come?

I had no idea I’d write PM2, so I haven’t thought much about PM3. However as Murray Pura may be moving on to other projects, the opportunity for me to do PM3 has been hinted at. I would do it if I were permitted to hijack the series a bit and make the ex-devil worshipper, Angelika, a principal character, as strong as Preacher Man (or stronger). In many ways, because of her background, she is far more lethal than he is against the powers of darkness. I’d like to see him, as her man, get taken hostage by the Evil One and she becomes his only hope of being rescued from hell alive. So she literally tears up the Kingdom of Darkness to save her lover and fellow spiritual warrior. And I mean tear up. It would be the ultimate KA Chick story but way more than SALT (2010 movie with Angelina Jolie) or Agent Carter (Captain America) because she is fighting on both physical and paranormal levels, no holds barred. If they would let me run with that plot for PM3 I’d do it in a heartbeat.

Is there anything you’d like to say to your readers?

If you want edgy, if you want real Christian and real christwalker (see Volume 4), if you detest formula fluff fiction, if you want high octane and super maxxed out thrillers that are deep and that stimulate, encourage and edify your spirit and imagination, and if you’re not afraid of some great romance along the way, then consider giving this young Italian-American author chick a try! Grazi mille! (Thanks a million).

Any final words?

If I don’t do PM3 (or even if I do) I’d like to write a series about a female bounty hunter who deals with fugitives who exist on both the physical and supernatural planes. The justice she brings them to is sometimes earthly but more often than not, it is justice that is executed from the throne of God. She has extraordinary powers and astonishing martial arts skills but frequently has to battle evil in environments where only her human skills and abilities serve her well. The fugitives she hunts are the most ruthless mix of both the demonic and corrupted humanity. These are hardcore paranormal killers who spawn wars and murderous epidemics and global terrorism and who feast on human suffering and bloodshed. Yet she tracks them without hesitation. Even angels fear to tread where this BA Christian chick goes. But if you think the black hats are scary wait till you see her take them on in the full power of the fire of God. Beautiful, strong, fearless, no wonder hell has two words for her and only two words – Sudden Death.

Anyone interested?

Where can readers find you? 

Sorry I don’t have all the stuff below set up yet but I am on Facebook, please friend me there. I am looking for all sorts of new friends and readers, and I don’t care about your background or where you’re coming from, just be real and we’ll have a great Facebook friendship.  

Well, Alessandra, thanks for showing us a glimpse of your life and discussing how you came to write Preacher Man Series II. You have had a successful debut as a writer and you have taken Preacher Man Series II to the next level. We look forward to the prospect that Preacher Man III may become a reality and your future writing endeavours, especially about the female bounty hunter will continue to be edgy, Christian speculative in nature and very exciting! Keep up this great standard! I pray that your description of spiritual warfare has encouraged the Body of Christ to embrace this in their relationship with God and to be used by Him to rescue and free those bound in captivity to satan and his schemes.