July | 2022 | Plot Line and Sinker (Ellen Gable, Author)

I’m joining Carolyn Astfalk and Catholic Mom for An Open Book. Here’s what I’ve been reading and working on this past month.

The Shroud of the Second Coming by Scott Simpson

Amazon Synopsis: What if in one possible future that the burial cloth of Jesus Christ is proven to be authentic? That the technology of the given time can identify the creation of something so extraordinary that it goes way beyond scientific understanding? And what if someone was to tell you that it could happen in this lifetime? Well, there is such a possibility. And based on scientific facts with biblical understanding is a story describing such an event as it unfolds.

In the near future, an Earthquake erupts out in the West Bank desert, creating an eerie blue glow that forms over a valley they call The Corridor. Looked upon as a scientific phenomenon, science and religion have a need to investigate. And during their research, experience anomalies that go way beyond human understanding and are soon recognized as spiritual occurrences. Further up north in Europe is the Particle Collider and its discovery of another dimensional plane. It’s there that they make the most significant find of them all when testing for the Shroud’s authenticity. In effect, its repercussions have a global impact that alters the course of humanity.

A degree-holder in Science and the author of this book, Scott Simpson, has spent much of his time researching the Shroud of Turin and the fantastic world of subatomic particles. He’s also well versed in history and the political fields that go with it. But what caught his eye the most was the Shroud’s carbon testing and the dating flaw behind it. It was recently discovered that the material used was a repair job back in the 14th century, which piqued Simpson’s curiosity. And while stumbling upon some interesting facts about the Messiah’s return, it gave him a renewed sense of connection with his maker.

My review: Coming soon!

Amazon Synopsis: Three tragic events happened during my lifetime. First there was the treacherous attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese in 1941, when I was eleven years old. This was followed by the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki when I was fifteen. The third event was the 9/11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon when I was 71. These three events are part of my history, as they are for many of you, and are very much the motivation for writing this book and what led me to stand in conscience against the use of weapons of mass destruction while still a member of the USAF. God changed my heart of stone to a heart of flesh. Our hearts have been hardened and wounded by these tragic events and by the painful events of our own personal lives. We desperately need to face the nuclear age with the heart of God, not with our own thinking but with God’s. Only then can we experience an age of peace upon the earth.

My review: This is an eye-opening memoir from a retired serviceman who has information and experience regarding the atomic bombs and the spiritual morality/immorality of using them. Highly recommend.

The Cross and the Beatitudes by Bishop Fulton J. Sheen

Amazon synopsis: This classic work from the pen of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen brings together Christ’s Sermon on the Mount with his Seven Last Words. From the Mount of the Beatitudes to the Hill of Calvary, Our Lord’s public ministry and statements centered on the themes of love and forgiveness, which are explored here with Archbishop Sheen’s characteristic insight and passion.

My review: This is an absolutely beautifully written book (like most of Sheen’s books) that brings together Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount with Christ’s last words on the cross. Highly recommend.

Treasures Visible & Invisible by Catholic Teen Books authors

Amazon Synopsis: Treasures: Visible and Invisible is a collection of short stories by eight CatholicTeenBooks.com authors.

A teen boy sets out to save a friend from pagan druids, but maybe he’s the one who needs saving.
Between an unearthed treasure and a visit from Heaven, a young monk is in for the surprise of his life!
A young girl seeks a mysterious treasure that holds the key to granting a nun’s dying wish.
Honora is desperate—then a peculiar clover and a mysterious young man change everything.
William’s weekend job is a little gift from heaven, but now his family needs a real miracle.
When threatened by mobsters, Grace receives help from a surprising source.
Alone and afraid, a young girl finds friendship in a stranger. But could this boy be trouble?
Kyle was determined to save the precious relic–but now his whole family is in danger.

My review: I thoroughly enjoyed this collection of short stories that center around St. Patrick’s life and legend. An ideal book to read around St. Patrick’s feast day or any time of the year. Recommend (and not just for teens).

In the Shadows of Freedom by C and C Spellman

Amazon Synopsis: It’s one person’s war for freedom in a world with no laws.
The United States is finally a meritocracy, where the best and most capable rise to the top. Existing laws and regulations continue to be repealed, and freedom is the mantra of the people.
Amanda Burrow, a talented painter, moves to New York City to attend an elite art academy. Once there, she falls for self-assured Ethan Ramsey, a staunch member of the National Citizens Party: the nation’s ruling faction. The NCP seeks to banish anything-or anyone-that might jeopardize an individual’s autonomy.
Amanda’s habitually dull and depressed world is turned upside down by her newfound relationship with Ethan. Yet as the NCP heightens its persecution of those who oppose its agenda, will Amanda find true freedom in a new and increasingly merciless society?

My review: Dystopian novels are generally not my preferred book to read, but this was well done with great characters. Recommend.

Rescued! True Stories for Catholic Kids by Kathryn Griffin Swegart

Amazon Synopsis: Ready to read exciting true stories? From first-century Jerusalem to 20th-century Maine, young readers are sure to be inspired by tales of courage and miraculous rescues. Ten stories packed with action. Stories include the angelic rescue of St. Peter from certain death, the escape of St. Patrick from slavery, and the amazing Nellie Cashman who rescued an entire village trapped by avalanches. Illustrated. From ages 7 and up.

My review: This is a beautiful book for kids that illustrates tales of courage and miraculous rescues. Highly recommend!