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The Shift by M. Ann Ricks
There is a sense of urgency in the atmosphere as God is transitioning many into what the world has deemed impossible and unbelievable into the possible and the believable. Don't be alarmed by the "sudden" moves of the God. Pastor Douglass and his family have been positioned for such a move but because of the dense fog of deception that surrounds them, some in the Douglass family have created their own beliefs, fabricating their own sense of self; negating the truth, God's truth, even when truth is staring them in the face. They are living lives devoid of the knowledge of who they really and robbing themselves and those they love of their true identity and freedom. Deeply embedded lies from enemy have blinded eyes, impaired hearing and hardened hearts and Angels from the army of God have been deployed. The the execution of God's divine design. Dreams, supernatural revelation and actual attacks from man's ultimate foe will expose all and confirm God's plan for Xion, Veronica, Zeborah, Bo and Pastor Richard Douglas.Will the infrastructure of unbelief crumble? Can they handle the truth and surrender? The lives of the Douglass family will never be the same and neither will you, because of THE SHIFT!"
- GenresChristian Fiction
Paperback
First published February 1, 2012
11 people want to read
About the author
M. Ann Ricks
4 books3 followersM. Ann Ricks, (Melissa Ann), is a Christian Fiction novelist residing in Bear, Delaware with her excellent husband and two awesome sons. She is a graduate of Rider University and formerly a national accounts insurance executive.
Using Jesus Christ as her example, as He shared many parables, she creates stories with fictional characters that contend with real life issues and inserts the Word of God to communicate the genuine and unfailing love of God while making it abundantly clear that Jesus is the ONLY answer. M. Ann is determined to tell the world how wonderfully awesome Jesus Christ is and can be in our lives if we just allow Him to be. She is honored to be used by God to spread His message with the stories she creates with the leading of the Holy Spirit, knowing that He will provide her with stories and the words that will lift up the name of Jesus as He promised that if He is lifted up, He will draw all men to Him.
M. Ann is also what one may consider a motivational/inspirational speaker but she prefers the term, “Godspirational” as one may only be truly inspired, transformed and receive true revelation when hearing the uncompromised word of God. M. Ann also continues to utilize her group insurance knowledge as a Benefits and Network Consultant. Lastly, M. Ann is a Group Fitness instructor as she is determined to keep her natural “temple” fit and ready for the Master’s use!
M. Ann is the author of Awesome Wonder: The Gift of Remembrance ,The Son. the much acclaimed, third novel, THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME.
Using Jesus Christ as her example, as He shared many parables, she creates stories with fictional characters that contend with real life issues and inserts the Word of God to communicate the genuine and unfailing love of God while making it abundantly clear that Jesus is the ONLY answer. M. Ann is determined to tell the world how wonderfully awesome Jesus Christ is and can be in our lives if we just allow Him to be. She is honored to be used by God to spread His message with the stories she creates with the leading of the Holy Spirit, knowing that He will provide her with stories and the words that will lift up the name of Jesus as He promised that if He is lifted up, He will draw all men to Him.
M. Ann is also what one may consider a motivational/inspirational speaker but she prefers the term, “Godspirational” as one may only be truly inspired, transformed and receive true revelation when hearing the uncompromised word of God. M. Ann also continues to utilize her group insurance knowledge as a Benefits and Network Consultant. Lastly, M. Ann is a Group Fitness instructor as she is determined to keep her natural “temple” fit and ready for the Master’s use!
M. Ann is the author of Awesome Wonder: The Gift of Remembrance ,The Son. the much acclaimed, third novel, THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
April 16, 2014
On Easter, I felt there was no greater story to share than one of redemption and hope in a world today filled without hope. When you look around the world you begin to wonder just how bad will it get. If you love a bit of spiritual warfare coupled with an unforgettable romance story of a prodigal family finding their way home, then you will love The Shift from author M. Ann Ricks.
The story opens with a young girl Xion who finds herself literally at the crucifixion of Jesus Christ amid Jesus' mother and others. Only she doesn't realize it at the time, just who the disfigured man is hanging there dying while those around him are weeping and sobbing. All she knows is when she looks into the eyes of this man, she doesn't see despair but love instead. Then she wakes up. Xion has been living with her grandparents since graduating from school and has been estranged from her mother Veronica since as far back as she can remember. It's a painful place that memories can keep us chained and no one is more content with that than the demons who want nothing more than to keep her in bondage and away from the truth that her grandparents have been praying for.
But for Xion, despite all she knows about Jesus Christ, and what her grandparents have shared with her, this is something that has to come to her on her own terms not merely accepting what everyone tells her she should do. So while her grandparents diligently continue to pray for her to come to know Jesus as they do, she continues to be haunted by the dream that felt like more than just a dream. She wonders just who the man is and why she continues to be haunted by his image.
Meanwhile Zeborah and Richard, Xion's grandparents and founders of Kingdom Revelation Center continue to pray for Xion, they are also praying for Veronica, her mother to come back home. It has been years since she has remained separated from them but feel God's got something big going on that will draw them all closer together one more time. Yet the enemy isn't so willing to give up the secrets of the past that have kept them all in bondage and he will stop at nothing to ensure the success in his plans of keeping Xion and Veronica from finding the salvation, hope and forgiveness that can only be found in Jesus Christ.
I received The Shift compliments of the author M. Ann Ricks herself for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions included here are strictly my own.. I've been a huge fan of speculative fiction, which is the new term that accompanies books on spiritual warfare in a fiction sense, since being exposed to Frank Peretti's books, Piercing the Darkness and This Present Darkness. It is important to understand that there is a world that we cannot see in which spiritual battles are taking place between believers and non believers everyday for our souls. This one is along those lines and shows just how strong the weapon of prayer can be in the life of a believer. It also shows how the enemy will do whatever it takes to keep us from using that power to battle for the lives of the unsaved around us. I LOVED this story that M. Ann Ricks has so thoughtfully put together and was divinely inspired to reach those that will read it. I easily give this one a 4.5 of out 5 stars in my opinion.
The story opens with a young girl Xion who finds herself literally at the crucifixion of Jesus Christ amid Jesus' mother and others. Only she doesn't realize it at the time, just who the disfigured man is hanging there dying while those around him are weeping and sobbing. All she knows is when she looks into the eyes of this man, she doesn't see despair but love instead. Then she wakes up. Xion has been living with her grandparents since graduating from school and has been estranged from her mother Veronica since as far back as she can remember. It's a painful place that memories can keep us chained and no one is more content with that than the demons who want nothing more than to keep her in bondage and away from the truth that her grandparents have been praying for.
But for Xion, despite all she knows about Jesus Christ, and what her grandparents have shared with her, this is something that has to come to her on her own terms not merely accepting what everyone tells her she should do. So while her grandparents diligently continue to pray for her to come to know Jesus as they do, she continues to be haunted by the dream that felt like more than just a dream. She wonders just who the man is and why she continues to be haunted by his image.
Meanwhile Zeborah and Richard, Xion's grandparents and founders of Kingdom Revelation Center continue to pray for Xion, they are also praying for Veronica, her mother to come back home. It has been years since she has remained separated from them but feel God's got something big going on that will draw them all closer together one more time. Yet the enemy isn't so willing to give up the secrets of the past that have kept them all in bondage and he will stop at nothing to ensure the success in his plans of keeping Xion and Veronica from finding the salvation, hope and forgiveness that can only be found in Jesus Christ.
I received The Shift compliments of the author M. Ann Ricks herself for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions included here are strictly my own.. I've been a huge fan of speculative fiction, which is the new term that accompanies books on spiritual warfare in a fiction sense, since being exposed to Frank Peretti's books, Piercing the Darkness and This Present Darkness. It is important to understand that there is a world that we cannot see in which spiritual battles are taking place between believers and non believers everyday for our souls. This one is along those lines and shows just how strong the weapon of prayer can be in the life of a believer. It also shows how the enemy will do whatever it takes to keep us from using that power to battle for the lives of the unsaved around us. I LOVED this story that M. Ann Ricks has so thoughtfully put together and was divinely inspired to reach those that will read it. I easily give this one a 4.5 of out 5 stars in my opinion.
March 22, 2014
I received a copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
The book begins with Xion having this amazing dream. In it, she sees Jesus being crucified, but she doesn't recognize it as such. You see, to her, the Bible was just a book of stories that she has grown up with. She had yet to have a personal relationship with Him, thank God for a prayerful grandmother!
Zeborah is Xion's grandmother. She had a troubled past with an abusive husband, yet through it all, she persevered found God and a good husband. Still haunted by her past, she has kept many secrets. Will God give her the courage to face her past and reveal the secret she's kept for years?
Veronica is Xion's mother. She believes that because her father was homosexual, that she was destined to be a lesbian, she is also a survivor of an abusive relationship with a man. Veronica has yet to have a relationship with God, but she's also having difficulty forgiving and freeing herself from the past.
This was an awesome story of faith and the unconditional love of family. I enjoyed the way that we get to see our prayers in action. Also how angels and demons, influence our thoughts. It reiterates that no matter what we've done, God will always forgive and accept us as long as we ask and believe. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and it dealt with some pretty tough topics. The story was quite engrossing and even had some romance. Another great Christian novel by M Ann Ricks!
The book begins with Xion having this amazing dream. In it, she sees Jesus being crucified, but she doesn't recognize it as such. You see, to her, the Bible was just a book of stories that she has grown up with. She had yet to have a personal relationship with Him, thank God for a prayerful grandmother!
Zeborah is Xion's grandmother. She had a troubled past with an abusive husband, yet through it all, she persevered found God and a good husband. Still haunted by her past, she has kept many secrets. Will God give her the courage to face her past and reveal the secret she's kept for years?
Veronica is Xion's mother. She believes that because her father was homosexual, that she was destined to be a lesbian, she is also a survivor of an abusive relationship with a man. Veronica has yet to have a relationship with God, but she's also having difficulty forgiving and freeing herself from the past.
This was an awesome story of faith and the unconditional love of family. I enjoyed the way that we get to see our prayers in action. Also how angels and demons, influence our thoughts. It reiterates that no matter what we've done, God will always forgive and accept us as long as we ask and believe. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and it dealt with some pretty tough topics. The story was quite engrossing and even had some romance. Another great Christian novel by M Ann Ricks!
January 28, 2015
To God be the glory. This book had me on edge. My heart was touched by the active presence of God. I loved how Melissa weaved this beautiful story of destruction and redemption. Hearing the angels speak on behalf of Gods chosen was heart warming. I felt Veronica. I have too felt damaged but praise God for His redeeming love. I loved how the Aunt who turned out to be mom wrote that letter.
Even though she could not verbally explain what needed to be said, she had the courage to write that letter to open up healing. I was glued when she shouted I know who you are. That's what we have to do in the face of the enemy, we have to let him know and also let him Who is in charge, God. The sermon given my Xion had me ready to shout. I think that was the best part for me because she told it like it is with God. She explained it and pressed it on the church and they got it. I love praise and worship but hearing the word is all I really hunger for. She brought it down life fire shut up in that bone. Glory. This book is a must read again. Awesome.
Even though she could not verbally explain what needed to be said, she had the courage to write that letter to open up healing. I was glued when she shouted I know who you are. That's what we have to do in the face of the enemy, we have to let him know and also let him Who is in charge, God. The sermon given my Xion had me ready to shout. I think that was the best part for me because she told it like it is with God. She explained it and pressed it on the church and they got it. I love praise and worship but hearing the word is all I really hunger for. She brought it down life fire shut up in that bone. Glory. This book is a must read again. Awesome.
August 20, 2016
I found The Shift to be unique because it wasn’t just about the troubles and difficulties that the Douglass family were going through that we could see, but we could see much deeper than that. We had a window into the spiritual world that is normally invisible to us. We were able to see both the angels and demons as the encouraged and/or tormented each character in the novel.
As we all do in real life, Veronica, Zeborah, Richard and Xion have their own secrets or deceptions that they have surrounded themselves with. These are things that they believe about themselves, whether they are true or not. Secrets they have kept “so that others won’t be hurt”. But what they find is that these secrets and lies get in the way of God’s plans.
The Shift was a fascinating look at how God works in the lives of people and leads them to Himself, freeing them of the bondage that has held them sometimes for many years. It is amazing to see the kind of changes He can make in a person’s life if we will let Him.
The most powerful part of the book for me was to see what the spiritual battleground might look like and how the enemy might be working to influence us with discouragement, frustration, negativity and lies. I also loved the character of Bo, who becomes our example of how to love unconditionally.
This was a very inspirational read. I gave it 4 out of 5 stars.
Thank you to the publishers for providing a copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review. A positive opinion was not required. All thoughts are my own.
This review was originally published on Shelf Full of Books http://kathrynsshelffullofbooks.blogs...
As we all do in real life, Veronica, Zeborah, Richard and Xion have their own secrets or deceptions that they have surrounded themselves with. These are things that they believe about themselves, whether they are true or not. Secrets they have kept “so that others won’t be hurt”. But what they find is that these secrets and lies get in the way of God’s plans.
The Shift was a fascinating look at how God works in the lives of people and leads them to Himself, freeing them of the bondage that has held them sometimes for many years. It is amazing to see the kind of changes He can make in a person’s life if we will let Him.
The most powerful part of the book for me was to see what the spiritual battleground might look like and how the enemy might be working to influence us with discouragement, frustration, negativity and lies. I also loved the character of Bo, who becomes our example of how to love unconditionally.
This was a very inspirational read. I gave it 4 out of 5 stars.
Thank you to the publishers for providing a copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review. A positive opinion was not required. All thoughts are my own.
This review was originally published on Shelf Full of Books http://kathrynsshelffullofbooks.blogs...
March 12, 2014
I received this book from the touring host for an honest review.
The title of this book says it all. Be ready for a change in the way you have looked at things in the past you will definitely experience a shift while reading this book.
We were introduced to Xion while she’s having a dream that disturbed her greatly, she was awaken by her Grams Zeborah, she was living with her grand parents since her mother, Veronica moved out of her life. A strong young woman that resisted God’s calling on her life, which caused her to not make a commitment due to the lies that followed her.
This is a very real story, one I could relate to and that kept my interest throughout. It’s a powerful family drama that unfolds in the lives of a family that confessed the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior. However many things around them influenced their decisions and their walk with God; things like secrets, wrong decisions and unforgiveness.
Through much prayer and learning to trust, the family unit was reunited powerfully by the Spirit of God. A key in all this is Richard, the pastor of KRC but also husband of Zeborah, a very intriguing story. A man that was looking for answers finding it in the most common place, his home.
This book is a very powerful rendition of the power of prayer and the effect of believing and declaring the Word in your life and situations. Victory is ours in Jesus Christ.
Thanks for your obedience M Ann Ricks; I believe God will use this book to bring a shift in many families and also in individuals’ lives.
The title of this book says it all. Be ready for a change in the way you have looked at things in the past you will definitely experience a shift while reading this book.
We were introduced to Xion while she’s having a dream that disturbed her greatly, she was awaken by her Grams Zeborah, she was living with her grand parents since her mother, Veronica moved out of her life. A strong young woman that resisted God’s calling on her life, which caused her to not make a commitment due to the lies that followed her.
This is a very real story, one I could relate to and that kept my interest throughout. It’s a powerful family drama that unfolds in the lives of a family that confessed the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior. However many things around them influenced their decisions and their walk with God; things like secrets, wrong decisions and unforgiveness.
Through much prayer and learning to trust, the family unit was reunited powerfully by the Spirit of God. A key in all this is Richard, the pastor of KRC but also husband of Zeborah, a very intriguing story. A man that was looking for answers finding it in the most common place, his home.
This book is a very powerful rendition of the power of prayer and the effect of believing and declaring the Word in your life and situations. Victory is ours in Jesus Christ.
Thanks for your obedience M Ann Ricks; I believe God will use this book to bring a shift in many families and also in individuals’ lives.
July 10, 2018
I received this book from the author for an honest review. Initially I was like sure, okay, send it, I will read it when I can but the title messed with me so I kind of jumped right in. As I started reading, it had the feel of Peretti with a twist of Pentecostal infusion. I could relate to so much of the storyline. The story made sense. Warfare is real. The analogy of demonic mind plague although fictional in this writing, it is very real.
I only allowed myself to read at work during my down time or I would have finished it in a day, it was THAT good. I liked how the story flowed. It didn't jump around. I liked the build up. Even the surprises or the things I didn't catch early on were not completely outlandish. I love how all of the lives came together in the end. But my all time favorite was Kisses and Zeborah for some strange reason. Aunt Moddie was broken but she was a gangster too, lol. I loved the angels Cinque and Christophe and I loved the scriptures throughout the book.
The only part that I did not like was that it had to end...
I will be reading more of this author's work asap.
RIP my sister. I recently found out you are in His presence...
I only allowed myself to read at work during my down time or I would have finished it in a day, it was THAT good. I liked how the story flowed. It didn't jump around. I liked the build up. Even the surprises or the things I didn't catch early on were not completely outlandish. I love how all of the lives came together in the end. But my all time favorite was Kisses and Zeborah for some strange reason. Aunt Moddie was broken but she was a gangster too, lol. I loved the angels Cinque and Christophe and I loved the scriptures throughout the book.
The only part that I did not like was that it had to end...
I will be reading more of this author's work asap.
RIP my sister. I recently found out you are in His presence...
August 10, 2016
I'm not one to dig deep into novels but Ricks allowed me a copy of this text with my exchange of an unbiased review. For someone not being into novels, I was reeled in by Ricks' ability to pen her thoughts and paint a detailed image with her words.
Any body who believes in Christ has gone through a shift -- a shift in what/Who we put our stock in, a shift in what kingdom we live in, and a shift in our eternal life. This story allows you to sit front and center to the life of Xion -- as we watch her family interact with her and live through the shift with her.
I would encourage folks who are looking for a Christian novel with substance to give this book a try (it is available in both paperback and kindle after all, so you could have the electronic copy in a matter of seconds)!
Any body who believes in Christ has gone through a shift -- a shift in what/Who we put our stock in, a shift in what kingdom we live in, and a shift in our eternal life. This story allows you to sit front and center to the life of Xion -- as we watch her family interact with her and live through the shift with her.
I would encourage folks who are looking for a Christian novel with substance to give this book a try (it is available in both paperback and kindle after all, so you could have the electronic copy in a matter of seconds)!
December 12, 2014
In THE SHIFT, a family's legacy of lies and deception threatens to utterly destroy it. Author M. Ann Ricks, has woven a vivid tale that highlights the power of sin and the beauty of redemption. I especially enjoyed reading her depictions of the goings-on in the spirit realm. THE SHIFT is a very relevant and compelling read. (I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
4 Stars
Adrienne Thompson
Author of The Bluesday Series
June 8, 2014
Amazon: 4
Words Mosaic: 4
Heading: Speak to the Lord
When I began reading M. Ann Ricks’ The Shift, I was beginning my own shift in my life. Due to what I was going through I had to read every word carefully and deliberately. I took away from this story a great deal more than I would have if I were all right. God’s plan and nothing else was for me to read The Shift at the time that I read it.
The story begins with Xion waking from a dream that was so vivid it seemed real to her. However, she questioned the realness of what she had witnessed, because it was unbelievable. She was bearing witness to an event that we have only read in the Bible. It should have been an honor to be among the other witness, but the ordeal left Xion with questions. Who was that man? Where do I know him? Why am I dreaming about him?
Zeborah, grandmother of Xion and mother of Veronica, has been on her knees a lot. She needs the help of Jesus and his angels to help open the hearts and the minds of Xion and Veronica. To allow them to know Jesus is real and he has already paid for their sins. Now is the time for the entire family to heal. However, Zeborah is also in need of healing, but in order for her to move on she has to be honest with herself and her family. What is she hiding?
Veronica has been running from what she has seen as a child. She claimed the life that others believe is not right for her and not her, because of events from her past. However, when her past catches up to her present, more lives than hers is affected and shifted. Will anyone make it with a healed heart? Or will everyone continue to exist for the sake of existing.
Ricks wrote a powerful book. I had amen moments and chills running up and down my body. The words touched me to the core of my being. The Shift is one family’s spiritual journey. As I mentioned before, I read this story carefully and deliberately and because I read it that way I was able to catch mistakes. These mistakes caused me to reread a section to make sure I was not mistaking one character for another. Sometimes there were what seemed to be soliloquies and it would have been better if the dialogue and/or paragraphs were broken up with more movement. I do recommend The Shift because there is a message that will be received by everyone differently.
The author provided me with a .pdf copy of the book for review purposes.
Jennifer Coissiere
Words Mosaic Reviews
Words Mosaic: 4
Heading: Speak to the Lord
When I began reading M. Ann Ricks’ The Shift, I was beginning my own shift in my life. Due to what I was going through I had to read every word carefully and deliberately. I took away from this story a great deal more than I would have if I were all right. God’s plan and nothing else was for me to read The Shift at the time that I read it.
The story begins with Xion waking from a dream that was so vivid it seemed real to her. However, she questioned the realness of what she had witnessed, because it was unbelievable. She was bearing witness to an event that we have only read in the Bible. It should have been an honor to be among the other witness, but the ordeal left Xion with questions. Who was that man? Where do I know him? Why am I dreaming about him?
Zeborah, grandmother of Xion and mother of Veronica, has been on her knees a lot. She needs the help of Jesus and his angels to help open the hearts and the minds of Xion and Veronica. To allow them to know Jesus is real and he has already paid for their sins. Now is the time for the entire family to heal. However, Zeborah is also in need of healing, but in order for her to move on she has to be honest with herself and her family. What is she hiding?
Veronica has been running from what she has seen as a child. She claimed the life that others believe is not right for her and not her, because of events from her past. However, when her past catches up to her present, more lives than hers is affected and shifted. Will anyone make it with a healed heart? Or will everyone continue to exist for the sake of existing.
Ricks wrote a powerful book. I had amen moments and chills running up and down my body. The words touched me to the core of my being. The Shift is one family’s spiritual journey. As I mentioned before, I read this story carefully and deliberately and because I read it that way I was able to catch mistakes. These mistakes caused me to reread a section to make sure I was not mistaking one character for another. Sometimes there were what seemed to be soliloquies and it would have been better if the dialogue and/or paragraphs were broken up with more movement. I do recommend The Shift because there is a message that will be received by everyone differently.
The author provided me with a .pdf copy of the book for review purposes.
Jennifer Coissiere
Words Mosaic Reviews
June 18, 2016
This book took me longer than I had intended. I have read/reviewed the author's previous work: The Blood Than Signed my Name. With this title, The Shift, I was unsure what to expect but looking at the cover had a speculation of it relating to "the cross" or "Crucifixion".
It is an "attention-getter" because I brought the book to work (law library) and had a couple males inquire about the book itself and brief conversation about Jesus on the cross.
The beginning of the novel piqued my curiosity. Thereafter, I took awhile to gravitate to the reading until closer to the last 100 pages and boom there it was! It was explosive and liberating that makes you see how the Holy Spirit operates; angels and demons intercede or deceive; and left a hooker for the reader wondering if it will be a spin-off, or part 2 (sequel).
I strongly believe this book had the intent to reach unbelievers to grasp how the Holy Spirit works, salvation still exists, and Jesus in the answer; however, I foresee mature believers reading and enjoying this novel. For normal believers, or ordinary church-goers, will want to be entertained but can truly see how the power of prayer works, redemption still manifests and overshadows the darkness, and truly believe the impossible can be possible with the power of I AM.
Some grip-hooking passages (for my liking): "She was what he wanted but was she what God wanted for him (page 150)?" (Ideally, we have strong desires and/or lustful, fleshly desires to be with a significant other but not necessarily what God desires for us. His best for us, but many settle for less because of the flesh.) "Your sinful beginnings don't have to be your life's story (page 273)." (powerful!) "Don't serve sin, SERVE GOD (page 273)!" (well-needed message on point.)
Ultimately, read the entire book to see what the SHIFT is really about. The answers lie within (hint: near the end for sure).
*I may share my copy with the law library I work at.
Dream 4 More Reviews,
Adrienna Turner, Reviewer
www.dream4more.org
www.dream4more.us
www.dream4more.net
It is an "attention-getter" because I brought the book to work (law library) and had a couple males inquire about the book itself and brief conversation about Jesus on the cross.
The beginning of the novel piqued my curiosity. Thereafter, I took awhile to gravitate to the reading until closer to the last 100 pages and boom there it was! It was explosive and liberating that makes you see how the Holy Spirit operates; angels and demons intercede or deceive; and left a hooker for the reader wondering if it will be a spin-off, or part 2 (sequel).
I strongly believe this book had the intent to reach unbelievers to grasp how the Holy Spirit works, salvation still exists, and Jesus in the answer; however, I foresee mature believers reading and enjoying this novel. For normal believers, or ordinary church-goers, will want to be entertained but can truly see how the power of prayer works, redemption still manifests and overshadows the darkness, and truly believe the impossible can be possible with the power of I AM.
Some grip-hooking passages (for my liking): "She was what he wanted but was she what God wanted for him (page 150)?" (Ideally, we have strong desires and/or lustful, fleshly desires to be with a significant other but not necessarily what God desires for us. His best for us, but many settle for less because of the flesh.) "Your sinful beginnings don't have to be your life's story (page 273)." (powerful!) "Don't serve sin, SERVE GOD (page 273)!" (well-needed message on point.)
Ultimately, read the entire book to see what the SHIFT is really about. The answers lie within (hint: near the end for sure).
*I may share my copy with the law library I work at.
Dream 4 More Reviews,
Adrienna Turner, Reviewer
www.dream4more.org
www.dream4more.us
www.dream4more.net
April 29, 2014
The Lord is moving in the lives of the Douglass family in The Shift by M. Ann Ricks. A shift is coming as Angels are working to protect the Douglass family from the demonic spirits lingering around them. Veronica Wingham has lived a life of confusion, which prompted her to abandon her daughter, Xion. Veronica has lived by her own rules and in sin but something is directing her to return home. Veronica feels the change even though she is fighting it.
Zenobia Douglass loves the Lord and praises him from delivering her from an abusive marriage. Zenobia has put that life behind her and buried her secrets with it. She is now married to a god-fearing man, Pastor Richard Douglass. Richard and Zenobia have custody of Xion, Veronica’s daughter whose heart is hurting. Zenobia is a prayer warrior who won’t give up because she knows that God can change Xion and Veronica’s hearts. Zenobia can feel the demonic spirits that are attacking her family and she realizes they will need all the prayers they can get to win the battle her family is facing.
Xion has been holding a grudge because of the lifestyle her mother chose over taking care of her. Xion has had a defensive wall up which has given the demons power over her. When Xion’s mother returns home, Xion slowly lets her guard down, opens her heart and receives her calling.
The Shift is a powerful story about the power of God and everything the devil does to keep people from the will of God. This book had me on the edge of my seat. The characters are unforgettable, the plot well thought of and the author does a wonderful job describing the demonic spirits that will give readers a chill. This book was also cause readers to thinking and it is worth reading.
This book was provided by the author for review purposes only.
Teresa Beasley
A&RBC Reviews
4 Stars=Great Page Turner
Zenobia Douglass loves the Lord and praises him from delivering her from an abusive marriage. Zenobia has put that life behind her and buried her secrets with it. She is now married to a god-fearing man, Pastor Richard Douglass. Richard and Zenobia have custody of Xion, Veronica’s daughter whose heart is hurting. Zenobia is a prayer warrior who won’t give up because she knows that God can change Xion and Veronica’s hearts. Zenobia can feel the demonic spirits that are attacking her family and she realizes they will need all the prayers they can get to win the battle her family is facing.
Xion has been holding a grudge because of the lifestyle her mother chose over taking care of her. Xion has had a defensive wall up which has given the demons power over her. When Xion’s mother returns home, Xion slowly lets her guard down, opens her heart and receives her calling.
The Shift is a powerful story about the power of God and everything the devil does to keep people from the will of God. This book had me on the edge of my seat. The characters are unforgettable, the plot well thought of and the author does a wonderful job describing the demonic spirits that will give readers a chill. This book was also cause readers to thinking and it is worth reading.
This book was provided by the author for review purposes only.
Teresa Beasley
A&RBC Reviews
4 Stars=Great Page Turner
July 3, 2014
Can you sense it? Discern it? Feel it? The shifting in the Kingdom of God that is upon us and moving in the lives of His people in Author M. Ann Ricks’ The Shift.
Richard and Zeborah had not only been praying for their daughter, Veronica, to give her life to the Lord, but their granddaughter Xion as well. They understood that the enemy had already put his plan of action to thwart their prayers, but they had no idea the plan God had for all of their lives.
God also worked in the lives of the people that attended the church that Richard pastored and He strategically used familiar things (and some not so familiar) to bring about a grand deliverance through fasting and prayer. In this awesome move of God, it did not matter what station of life they were all found in, God moved on their behalf to bring about the change that would make them whole. Doubt, unbelief, guilt, shame and sin were addressed but not without a fight both spiritually and naturally.
Will Richard be able to accept some truths about Zeborah’s past and allow their marriage to stay intact? Can the truth about Veronica’s past help to right her present? Will Xion come to know the God she grew up learning about? Decisions about past lives and truth that can ultimately change the present is revealed, yet God’s love, mercy and grace can and will prevail when the choice to get in the shift is made.
I enjoyed reading The Shift because the tangible presence of God was evidence within the pages of the book. I recommend this book to everyone who is seeking a greater relationship with the Lord.
This copy was provided to me courtesy of the publisher for review purposes.
Review by Author Sharel E. Gordon-Love
Richard and Zeborah had not only been praying for their daughter, Veronica, to give her life to the Lord, but their granddaughter Xion as well. They understood that the enemy had already put his plan of action to thwart their prayers, but they had no idea the plan God had for all of their lives.
God also worked in the lives of the people that attended the church that Richard pastored and He strategically used familiar things (and some not so familiar) to bring about a grand deliverance through fasting and prayer. In this awesome move of God, it did not matter what station of life they were all found in, God moved on their behalf to bring about the change that would make them whole. Doubt, unbelief, guilt, shame and sin were addressed but not without a fight both spiritually and naturally.
Will Richard be able to accept some truths about Zeborah’s past and allow their marriage to stay intact? Can the truth about Veronica’s past help to right her present? Will Xion come to know the God she grew up learning about? Decisions about past lives and truth that can ultimately change the present is revealed, yet God’s love, mercy and grace can and will prevail when the choice to get in the shift is made.
I enjoyed reading The Shift because the tangible presence of God was evidence within the pages of the book. I recommend this book to everyone who is seeking a greater relationship with the Lord.
This copy was provided to me courtesy of the publisher for review purposes.
Review by Author Sharel E. Gordon-Love
June 18, 2016
I have read/reviewed the author's previous work: The Blood Than Signed my Name. With this title, The Shift, is an "attention-getter." The beginning of the novel piqued my curiosity. After reading about midway through the novel, I found the secrets and stories explosive, as well as an eye-opener. Moreover, it is liberating to see how the Holy Spirit operates; angels and demons intercede or deceive; and left a hooker for the reader wondering if it will be a spin-off, or part 2 (sequel).
I strongly believe this book had the intent to reach unbelievers to grasp how the Holy Spirit works, salvation still exists, and Jesus in the answer; however, I foresee mature believers reading and enjoying this novel. For normal believers, or ordinary church-goers, will want to be entertained but can truly see how the power of prayer works, redemption still manifests and overshadows the darkness, and truly believe the impossible can be possible with the power of I AM.
Some grip-hooking passages (for my liking): "She was what he wanted but was she what God wanted for him (page 150)?" (Ideally, we have strong desires and/or lustful, fleshly desires to be with a significant other but not necessarily what God desires for us. His best for us, but many settle for less because of the flesh.) "Your sinful beginnings don't have to be your life's story (page 273)." (powerful!) "Don't serve sin, SERVE GOD (page 273)!" (well-needed message on point.)
Ultimately, read the entire book to see what the SHIFT is really about. The answers lie within.
Dream 4 More Reviews,
Adrienna Turner, Reviewer
www.dream4more.org
www.dream4more.us
www.dream4more.net
I strongly believe this book had the intent to reach unbelievers to grasp how the Holy Spirit works, salvation still exists, and Jesus in the answer; however, I foresee mature believers reading and enjoying this novel. For normal believers, or ordinary church-goers, will want to be entertained but can truly see how the power of prayer works, redemption still manifests and overshadows the darkness, and truly believe the impossible can be possible with the power of I AM.
Some grip-hooking passages (for my liking): "She was what he wanted but was she what God wanted for him (page 150)?" (Ideally, we have strong desires and/or lustful, fleshly desires to be with a significant other but not necessarily what God desires for us. His best for us, but many settle for less because of the flesh.) "Your sinful beginnings don't have to be your life's story (page 273)." (powerful!) "Don't serve sin, SERVE GOD (page 273)!" (well-needed message on point.)
Ultimately, read the entire book to see what the SHIFT is really about. The answers lie within.
Dream 4 More Reviews,
Adrienna Turner, Reviewer
www.dream4more.org
www.dream4more.us
www.dream4more.net
June 17, 2014
The Shift by M. Ann Ricks is a story from two perspectives. The first being the Douglass family and the second from the angels' perspective. The Douglass family is your typical family, Zeborah & Pops holding the family down, their daughter Veronica and granddaughter Xion. What makes this book unique is that it gives the perspective of the angels from heaven and the angels leagued with the devil. If you're careful, the angels on both sides are to give the reader (especially if Christian) a lesson as to what you say and do - will affect you in some way. And that's what the Douglass family had to learn, unresolved issues of the past can hinder your future.
Without diving too much more into the story, it's only fair that you read it. This was a good read. Great job M. Ann Ricks.
Without diving too much more into the story, it's only fair that you read it. This was a good read. Great job M. Ann Ricks.
December 8, 2014
MY REVIEW
The Shift was interesting as it was a different way to describe struggles people go through. This book will make the reader reflect back on their life even as they are reading.
I am giving this book a 4/5 star rating.
PERSONAL NOTE.
As I was reading this trying not and then getting sick, I will be reading this again and there may be a possible change in my review.
given a copy for a honest review
The Shift was interesting as it was a different way to describe struggles people go through. This book will make the reader reflect back on their life even as they are reading.
I am giving this book a 4/5 star rating.
PERSONAL NOTE.
As I was reading this trying not and then getting sick, I will be reading this again and there may be a possible change in my review.
given a copy for a honest review
May 25, 2014
Couldn't out it down! Awesome book full of vivid imagery into the spiritual realm. Great example and encouragement, restoration and redemption by the power of prayer from those who are relentless in their faith.
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