Books matching: faith and personal transformation
13 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Save:A smart, suspenseful, and sometimes satirical take on faith, longing, and second chances - especially meaningful for those with a church background, but with plenty to offer every thoughtful reader.
The Visitation by Frank E. Peretti is a compelling blend of supernatural and life story, centered on the journey of a disillusioned pastor named Travis Jordan. The plot weaves modern-day events with historical flashbacks, creating an engaging narrative filled with humor and poignant moments. As the protagonist grapples with his faith amidst challenges, the book conveys a powerful message about the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus, rather than merely following religious traditions.
Peretti's writing style captures the struggles of the human experience, making it relatable for readers. He offers keen insights into Christian culture while crafting believable characters that resonate with ordinary life situations. The suspenseful storytelling is balanced with thoughtful commentary, ensuring the book remains interesting and thought-provoking. Although it may start slowly, the pace picks up, captivating readers until the end and leaving them inspired to delve deeper into their faith.
Sally was nineteen, blonde, slightly overweight, and severely unhappy, mainly because she was no longer married. She had believed everything Joey, the trucker, told her about love, and how she was tha...611 pages - #2
Save:A gorgeously written, thoughtful, and deeply heartfelt romance for readers who love slow-burn emotional journeys, complex characters, and a cozy English village setting. Not for those looking for fluff or breakneck pace!
'To Love and to Cherish' by Patricia Gaffney is a character-driven novel that delves into the slow-blossoming romance between Anne and Christy, set against the backdrop of rural prosperity and peace. The story unfolds through Anne's vivid and colorful diary entries, offering a mix of keen self-reflection and beautiful allusions. The book intricately weaves themes of love, faith, and moral dilemmas as Anne, an atheist, finds herself falling in love with Reverend Christian Morrell, a vicar in the Church of England, despite societal expectations and personal beliefs.
The narrative skillfully explores the complexities of Anne and Christy's relationship, portraying their evolving friendship and emotional connection amidst Anne's unhappy marriage. Gaffney's writing style is described as artistic, analytic, and adult, with a focus on the characters' internal struggles and the lush descriptions of the countryside, which almost becomes a character itself in the story, enhancing the dreamy and idyllic atmosphere of the book.
God, give me patience and humility, prayed Reverend Christian Morrell, who was in the business, as it were, of loving the unlovable. Leaning over the bed but not touching it—ill as he was, the elderly...February 1972•388 pages A compelling, hope-filled read for anyone who loves true stories of transformation, but best for those comfortable with overt faith themes.
"The Cross and the Switchblade" is a true story about a small-town minister, David Wilkerson, who is called to serve inner-city youth struggling with gang violence and drug abuse. Despite witnessing the depths of heroin addiction and feeling close to hell, Wilkerson unflinchingly reaches out in love, demonstrating faith and hope. The book follows Wilkerson's experiences working with street gang members in New York City, facing hardships, threats, and challenges, all while relying on the hand of God to guide his mission.
From delinquency to deliverance, the book showcases the transformative journey of a gang member named Nicky Cruz, who encounters Wilkerson and experiences a life-changing encounter with God. The narrative provides a realistic pathway for teenagers involved in gangs to escape that lifestyle and turn towards faith. Through Wilkerson's genuine sincerity and unwavering commitment to his calling, the book delivers a powerful message of redemption and the impact of God's love on even the most troubled individuals.
At first glance, it seemed that there was nothing on the page to interest me. It carried a pen drawing of a trial taking place in New York City, 350 miles away. I’d never been to New York, and I never...1962•206 pagesA moving, unvarnished memoir brimming with hope, faith, and the tough realities of choosing an unconventional life. Perfect if you love honest, spiritual journeys - but expect some real talk and tough topics along the way.
The Plain Choice: A True Story of Choosing to Live an Amish Life by Sherry Gore is a moving memoir that delves into the author's journey of seeking a simpler life within the Amish community. Despite facing triggers such as abortion, drug overdose, and the death of a child, Gore's writing style captivates readers, making it challenging to put the book down. The narrative follows Gore's quest for meaning and fulfillment, leading her to embrace a Plain Life as she navigates through personal struggles, relationships, and a deep connection to her faith.
Through Gore's storytelling, readers witness a transformation that stems from absolute trust in a loving God and a profound sense of community. The book not only sheds light on the challenges and pain in life but also inspires readers to reflect on their own journeys, finding strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Gore's honest portrayal of her experiences, along with her unwavering faith, offers a poignant and uplifting narrative that resonates with those seeking a deeper understanding of life's complexities.
My little sister April called in the evening, but I wasn’t home; I was in the park with my friend Fannie watching Amish men play shuffleboard. Snowbird season was at its height in Pinecraft, when busl...August 2015•192 pages- #5
Save:A powerful, character-driven saga that layers spiritual crisis with gripping personal drama. Glittering Images is perfect if you’re craving intelligent fiction with emotional and philosophical depth - and don’t mind a strong dose of Anglican church intrigue!
'Glittering Images' by Susan Howatch is a novel that delves into the lives of clergymen in the Church of England in the 1930s. The story follows Charles Ashworth, a clergyman sent to spy on Bishop Alex Jardine by the Archbishop of Canterbury. As Charles uncovers the secrets and struggles of the Bishop and his own past, he is forced to confront his own inner demons and 'glittering image' he presents to the world. The book explores themes of faith, ambition, personal identity, and the complexities of human relationships within the backdrop of the Church hierarchy and political intrigue.
The narrative in 'Glittering Images' is rich in detail and psychological depth, offering a compelling exploration of the characters' internal struggles and the facade they maintain to hide their vulnerabilities. Susan Howatch weaves a complex plot that combines elements of mystery, spirituality, and personal transformation, inviting readers to reflect on their own 'glittering images' and the true selves they often conceal beneath the surface.
Darrow was not available. ‘Father Abbot’s gone visiting,’ said the monk who answered the telephone. He made visiting sound as if it were an act of great daring fraught with dangerous possibilities. Hi...1987•508 pages - #6
Save:A heartfelt, scripture-rich deep dive into near-death experiences and what they could mean for believers - hugely uplifting for some, but may feel preachy or one-sided to others.
'Imagine Heaven' by John Burke delves into the topic of near-death experiences (NDEs) and the promises of God regarding the afterlife. Through a combination of NDE accounts and biblical references, the author presents a compelling narrative that aims to provide readers with a glimpse into the exhilarating future that awaits them. The writing style is described as engaging and informative, with the author's background as a pastor lending credibility to the experiences shared in the book.
ISATUPWITHASTART. What time was it? I looked at the bedside table but they had taken the clock away. In fact, where was any of my stuff? The train schedules. My watch! I looked around. I was in a tiny...October 2015•352 pages A heartfelt, witty memoir of discovery and faith that's both challenging and inspiring - worth reading whether you're a believer, skeptic, or just love a good life story.
'The Great Good Thing: A Secular Jew Comes to Faith in Christ' by Andrew Klavan is an autobiographical account of the author's journey from atheistic Jew to joyful Christian. is described as intimate, intellectually intriguing, and thought-provoking, providing a remarkable story of a broken man finding healing and eventually faith in Christ. Klavan's writing style is praised for being open, honest, and deeply personal, as he shares his journey of discovery and the meaning of faith and religion.
The town I grew up in is named Great Neck. It is situated on a peninsula on the north shore of Long Island, about twenty-five miles east of Manhattan. It was, in my boyhood, as it is today, a wealthy...September 2016•304 pages- #8
Save:The Midwives by Duncan Ralston is a horror novel set in the small island town of Barrows Bay. The story follows Martin Savage, a true crime writer who, along with his friend Sheila, flees to Barrows Bay to escape a serial killer targeting them. However, they soon realize that the town is hiding dark secrets, involving the elderly midwives who dominate the town through evil witchery. As the plot unfolds, Martin's troubled past and the supernatural elements of Barrows Bay intertwine, leading to a gripping and fast-paced narrative that keeps the reader hooked till the end.
She looked him straight in the eye, grinning suggestively, expecting him to sign something nice in the copy of Mirror Man the stamp on the inside identified as property of Carnegie Library's Homewood...2016•420 pages - #9
Save:A classic, soul-stirring biography that radiates hope and faith - perfect for anyone seeking spiritual encouragement or a real-life story with heart.
'A Man Called Peter' by Catherine Marshall is an inspirational biography chronicling the life of Peter Marshall, a Scottish man who answered God's call to become a Christian minister in the United States. The book, written by Peter's wife, Catherine, provides a captivating account of Peter's journey from Scotland to Washington, D.C., where he served as Chaplain to the Senate. Through vivid storytelling, the book portrays Peter as a man of deep faith, humility, and unwavering commitment to his calling, touching the lives of many with his powerful sermons and genuine personality.
Catherine Marshall's writing style in 'A Man Called Peter' is described as engaging, heartwarming, and insightful. Readers praise the book for its blend of humor, romance, and spiritual depth, making it a timeless favorite for over 50 years. The narrative not only highlights Peter's extraordinary life but also showcases Catherine's talent in conveying the challenges, triumphs, and spiritual growth experienced by both Peter and herself, creating a moving and inspirational read for those seeking faith-based stories.
The morning was bleak and cold. A damp, penetrating wind ruffled the steel-gray waters of the Potomac, chased bits of paper and debris down the broad, roped-off expanse of Pennsylvania Avenue, and whi...January 1951•358 pages - #10
Save:Accessible and engaging, this version of 'The Case for Christ' makes tough questions about Jesus approachable - perfect for teens, skeptics, and anyone curious about the evidence behind Christian faith.
'The Case for Christ - Student Edition' by Jane Vogel and Lee Strobel follows the investigative journey of Lee Strobel, a journalist, as he delves into the evidence for Jesus Christ. Strobel's writing style is described as direct and engaging, as he explores difficult questions about Christianity and answers them in a straightforward manner. presents intelligent evidence for consideration, offering a light and accessible treatment of the topic, making it an ideal read for those seeking to understand more about Christ and the historical evidence behind his existence.
1998•128 pages
