Piercing the Darkness

Rating:
Summary: An engaging story, but disappointing sequel
Review: As in "This Present Darkness," the first of this two-novel series, Peretti gives us glimpses into the spiritual warfare going on invisibly around us. His speculation on the nature of the demonic hierarchy is perhaps the most interesting part of this series, but he seems to not develop that much at all here, nor are the angelic guardians of Earth given much more to do than ride in at the last moment to save the day....again.

There is, however, a twist to this novel that is actually an improvement on the first. The plot line concerning the humans in the first novel was an attempt by Satan's forces to overtake an entire college town, and was a bit predictable. I must admit I prefer the human plot line here, which centers on a mystery regarding a woman named Sally Roe.

Overall, however, for whatever reason, this second installment did not draw me in as completely and has not proven as memorable as the original "This Present Darkness." Mark this one down as a good idea that was not as well realized as the original.

Rating:
Summary: Touching Story
Review: I think that this book is very touching and inspiring. It is rare and unique in its theme, but portrays a universal theme of perseverance and hope. I adore the reality that Peretti shows about angels and demons, and how he reveals the truth that spiritual warfare affects our lives. I would suggest this book to anyone who is interested in the spiritual realm, and one who is hungry to learn more about God and the way that He works in our lives. Peretti is an excellent author who descriptively reveals a depth to Christianity that many believers in Christ have forgotten to see. It was refreshing for me to read a book with the insight and anointing that this book carries. There is a huge part of my heart that is captured by God's mysterious ways and the spiritual realm, and this book truly touched that part of me. It can be pretty hard to try to find a book that reveals spirituality like this one does, and I find it very intense and real. Many would stereotype it as science fiction, but there is a truth to the spiritual message that this book uses through the battles between demons and angels. We as Christians need to realize that prayer is extremely important, and we need to see that we are warriors for Christ. This book is a a mere glimpse of the wonders that exist beyond what our hearts can even imagine. Our God is an awesome God, and He has formed the most intriguing and beautiful things. I really feel that this book showed me that throughout the darkness that surrounds, His light truly shines and the darkness, and the darkness will never be able to overcome this light. I am forever touched by Peretti's anointed writing and insight, and it has revived a reality that my soul has once percieved and made it even more vivid. This is a wonderful book, and if you allow your heart to be open to the adventure and journey it reveals, I believe it will truly touch you.

Rating:
Summary: Creepy, Very Creepy
Review: I've read Piercing the Darkness a couple times, and it never ceases to freak me out. I can't help but check over my shoulder after reading this book. The book deals with the supernatural forces of God and his angels against Satan and his demons. Though they're invisible to the human eye, they see us and direct us for one side or the other. This is the sequel book, following This Present Darkness, which I didn't like nearly as much. The book follows Sally Beth Roe, a burn-out with a dark past, who finds herself caught up in some strange events that only progress to the stranger. Forceing her to flee her home in Bacon's Corner. The book is just creepy! While Sally flees we watch as demons chase her with one goal, to ultimatly kill her. I could write about this book all day, the plot is thick and deep and the characters believeable. But what really made this book stand out is the fact that once you start reading it, you began to wonder, "What if there really are demons? What if they're here in this room right now?" It just creeps you out! A first class creepy book with religious themes, who wouldn't love it?

Rating:
Summary: A Spiritual Wake-Up Call
Review: What a rivetting, thought-provoking reminder that we war not against flesh and blood but against the spirits and the Prince of the air (Eph. 6:12). Once again, in keeping with the spirit of "This Present Darkness," Peretti has skillfully pictured what takes place around us every day, unseen and seemingly un-noticed. I found myself looking forward to the daily moments that I would be able to sit down and read "Piercing the Darkness" uninterrupted. With each delightful turn of the page, the words captured my undivided attention, while challenging my spirituality. I found myself wanting to pray for the persecuted Christians, wanting to reach out to them in Christian support; but then I had to remind myself that it was just a book! Never before this book have I seen such a beautiful, rapturous description of receiving Christ as one's Savior. Peretti has given his readers a rare, yet human, glimpse at what it just might be like when Jesus redeems another soul to Himself. What a challenge this book has given me to pray with more fervor, to boldly come before His throne, to rejoice in His love and the protection of His children. I hope and pray that Peretti continues to write such challenging material.