My thoughts: I'll admit the cover wasn't necessarily a "come on" to me with its stark red, black, and white graphic and the title was a bit of a put off as well. But after reading the book's premise or back cover matter and knowing the publisher, Kregel, was tops, I committed to reviewing the book.
This isn't your typical Christian fiction that appeals to ladies. This one is so action-packed, and mind-bending that it will soon be a favorite of men who enjoy a fast paced read with the element of faith an integral part.
The first 28 pages were breath taking, action packed, nail-biting with its terse, rapid fire narrative of an exfil or rescue.
Then the book has a few pages of normal - if the CIA, spies, and terrorists can be considered normal - paced interlude setting the stage for the life and actions of the main character, John Cross. He is known by a code name for his work with the CIA. But he is also lovingly known as pastor of a small church.
A bit of romance is mingled within the main thread of the story.
This is the first in a three book series (I think) and the promise of exciting adventures to come incites compelling anticipation. Next is Cross Shadow (Shepherd Suspense 2) and I look forward to its release
About the book: John Cross is a small-town pastor, bent on leading his flock to follow God's calling. He's not the sort of man one would expect to have a checkered past.
But the truth is that the man behind the pulpit preaching to his sheep was once a wolf--an assassin for the CIA. When John decided to follow Christ, he put that work behind him, determined to pay penance for all the lives he took. He vowed never to kill again.
Now someone wants the peaceful pastor to pay for his sins with his own life. And when a terrorist out for revenge walks into the church, John's secrets are laid bare. Confronted with his past, he must face his demons and discover whether a man can truly change. Can he keep his vow--even when the people he loves are in mortal danger? Will his congregation and the brave woman he's learning to care for be caught in the cross fire? In the end, his death may be the only sacrifice he has left to offer .
Andrew Huff's thrilling debut is not only a riveting story of suspense, it's also a deep exploration of the moral quandaries that face those who choose to follow the Prince of Peace in a violent world.
Andrew holds a Bachelor of Science in Religion degree from Liberty University and a Master of Arts in Christian Education from Dallas Theological Seminary. He resides in North Texas with his beautiful wife Jae and their two boys.
I can't wait to read the next books in this exciting series
GIVEAWAY
Nov. 19-Dec. 10
Hosted by: Read with Audra
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DISCLOSURE: Giveaway is hosted on I Read With Audra and details are available from that source. I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions in my review are mine, alone and are freely given.
This looks like an interesting book I would love to read
ReplyDeleteI stopped by, this sounds like a great book.
ReplyDeleteI think my husband would love this book. I am not a big reader but he is and loves to do reviews of books once he has read them.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a unique and fascinating book.
ReplyDeleteNancy
allibrary (at) aol (dot) com
Hi, there! I dropped by to read this post because I was intrigued by the cover of the book. This is definitely going on my 'to be read' list. Thanks for the super giveaway opportunity.
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