UPDYKE books
-PURCHASE -REVIEW
Gritty but righteous. – Truly inspirational!
The main character in this book has a religiosity, established by regulation and tradition, that leaves her trapped in the ‘gap’, despite the help she desperately needs and seeks. Her ‘faith’ proves inadequate as she confronts an accusation of huge proportions and plunges into conflict. It is a severe trial, one that is very personal and realistic for the reader.
The book is at the least intriguing, but more so convincing. The writer clearly demonstrates that it is not one’s position, but the effect of his or her faith, the evidence of a personal relationship with God, the outcome of devotion, that empowers the individual.
There are many, an increasing number of ‘Christians’, who are no longer attending church. Their reasons for doing so are many and often complex. But this growing segment of our society, those stepping back from religion, they have not totally abandoned their belief in God.
Perhaps they are unknowingly looking for a place to belong. If you are among those seemingly ‘unfaithful’ but longing for affirmation, this is a book that you must read, or share with a friend, for it is insightful on many levels to comprehend a greater truth.
Not academic, The Cross Necklace, For the Sake of Sam, is actually a quick, and easy read. The display of humanity, the descriptive mental and emotional struggles, make the characters seem very real. The script is gritty in describing their indiscretions, realistic for today’s demanding reader.
The plot has many twists and turns, nagging questions that will keep you engaged as you delve into the story for the answers you need. The main plot is based on a true story, an experience of the author, when he was a journalist, writing for a local newspaper.
No one should shy away from this novel because of its ‘Christian’ designation. According to the author, the essence of true faith is more spiritual than religious, and as a reviewer, I agree. The demonstration of such ‘life’ is profoundly attractive. I believe you'll see what I mean as you experience the lure of transformational fiction at its best.
Feel free to copy this review, or any portion of it, and post on your social media. This book comes to you highly recommended.
Here is a story of mercy and grace. It is among those that urge us to believe in truths higher than our preferred opinions, to act in ways that honor the image of God. “THE CROSS NECKLACE" promises these elements with a beautiful theme and intent. We all enjoy stories that spark the imagination in the way the Advocate does - that perhaps someone wiser and more knowing looks out for us and, if we are paying attention, guides us toward best outcomes. Erin Healy, Word Wright Editorial Services
Why does God allow His children to suffer? It is a hard question. My best answer is on the pages that follow.
"THE CROSS NECKLACE" deals with the essence of Christianity, demonstrated by the experience of two people caught in a conflict, the kind that can destroy a person. SYNOPSIS
Our struggles are more spiritual than religious. Perhaps this novel will bring new insight. If you have endured personal suffering and a scar remains, don't stop seeking the truth for the healing you need and deserve.
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Alan Updyke
Edify - Encourage - Empower! with Updyke's novels:
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The Cross
Necklace
for the Sake of Sam
PURCHASE REVIEW
Here is a story of mercy and grace. It is among those that urge us to believe in truths higher than our preferred opinions, to act in ways that honor the image of God. “THE CROSS NECKLACE – For the Sake of Sam” promises these elements with a beautiful theme and intent. We all enjoy stories that spark the imagination in the way the Advocate does - that perhaps someone wiser and more knowing looks out for us and, if we are paying attention, guides us toward best outcomes.
In the small town of Walthem, Samuel Urban is known as the people’s judge. Once shown mercy, this magistrate feels obligated to grant unto those brought before him a second chance. Sam’s journey, one of pitfalls and recovery, is something people still talk about.
It was the intervention of his predecessor that saved Sam from a penalty that loomed like a noose, determined to claim his young life. But his acquittal stirred resentment in one who, unknowingly to Sam, became his archenemy. His nemesis seethed with anger at the news of Sam’s release from prison and the thought of him going unpunished.
The mysterious alliance that now desires to lynch Sam is not only reclusive, but very powerful and influential, and from them there will be no reprieve, because they lack understanding. But will he win in the end?
This is the story about a young couple, Sam and his girlfriend Jodi, but more importantly, it documents the influence of an Advocate, established in truth, for setting them free from their deepest despair.
The disgrace of Sam being charged a second time is more than they can bear. They are without hope until they discover a force at work in their lives which is greater than the reckless power possessed by their enemies.
Battle lines are drawn. The game of war is about to commence. But in truth, life is surely much more than a game. (Based on a true story.)
The Secrets of Sweetened Vales
Blessings All Mine
PURCHASE REVIEW
She was his first crush. When Julianne suddenly disappeared, he demanded answers, but those who knew what happened to her refused to tell him. Vincent’s heart was broken, but time didn’t wait for the truth to be revealed. He eventually moved on. Then one day a friend request came like a ghost from his past to resurrect the secrets of Sweetened Vales. And his haunts returned. Something strange had happened in that small town where its residents were healed, the source of it remaining a mystery.
Today it all seems like a dream as the world is consumed with the information age, yet the meaning of Vincent’s past is not explained by a search of the web. His personal experience, meaningful history, is soon to be forgotten. And still, he carries the scars of Sweetened Vales; his heart remains broken. Medication numbs the enduring pain.
The mystique of the strawberry fields known in his youth no longer entices a grower. Gone is the hopeful expectation Vincent once felt there. Wearing a cyber mask, he pretends to be someone he isn’t, in danger of losing his true self. He wonders if hope can be recovered like buried treasure, to heal the hurting once again.
Nowadays fresh strawberries are prominently displayed by the grocer year around, but this genetically altered fruit isn’t gratifying, not like the savory harvest from the fields of Sweetened Vales. Looking back, it's easy to see how the age inherited is altering us too.
What secrets does his past hold? Vincent intends to find out, to be free of the disappointing repetition that defines him. There was something very special about that strawberry farm and it is still intended for us today.
Thereafter
The earth shakes violently and the struggle of their after lives becomes the ultimate test.
PURCHASE REVIEW
Historical, end times fiction, “Thereafter”
is a book with insight for coming days, based on historical facts and an interpretation of prophetic writings.
The evidence we can glean from history is most convincing. Current events need to be understood within the context of lessons learned from our past. This book presents a fictional scenario of future events.
It’s a difficult and controversial topic, but one which we should not completely ignore. This writing is based two strong convictions. First, a time of great persecution is coming. Hatred is very strong.
Jesus said that nations will be offended, betray one another, and hate one another.
Secondly, we should not be surprised when it happens. He also told us to study for understanding, pray for refuge, recognize and understand the signs that foretell what is to come, and be ready.
Yes, we should be prepared! Are you?
“Thereafter” is insightful and thought provoking. Don’t just watch current events, interpret them!