Service

by Eric Maldonado

Heaven is under siege.

Since the beginning of time good and evil have been locked in conflict, universe wide, but now the darkness is growing dangerously close. The select few chosen to sacrifice paradise are desperate to recruit a new batch of souls in the waning hope of fighting off defeat.

Former WW2 veteran, Gerald, has lived a long and happy life. Always putting his friends and family first, he dies content, ready to rest in peace. The cosmos has other ideas for the former solider though. It is time for the warrior to take up arms once again.

Just one soul can make all the difference…But is he ready to answer the call?

430 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 28, 2024

Reviews

[MikeLikesBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had so much fun reading this book. I think you will too. It’s sci-fi/fantasy. Gerald, a WWII vet, passes on and goes to heaven. The way the author describes this world is vivid and fascinating. There are angels, fallen angels, alien forms, daemons, dinosaurs, and a unique fighting force called the Chosen Dead, lead by Gerald. Yep, there’s a war going on between good and evil. Have you heard of somebody named Judas Iscariot? Well, he’s there causing havoc. If you want to read a fast paced, action packed novel based in Heaven, this book is a must read.

[Kimberlee Owen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best book I’ve read in a while. I love the writing style and the characters so much

[Keith G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was honored to be a beta reader for this book. If you want fantasy that is not of the norm, this is great. It brings lots of different genres together and it is action packed. You can easily fall in love with these relatable characters. This book keeps you on the edge of your seat and I don’t wanna give anything away, but the ending is top tier.

[Ella Graff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prepare for battle

Gerald has passed away and gone to heaven. He meets his long since departed relatives and they have a picnic. Just the way one would like heaven to be. He has a few days to get used to his death and new existence when he is tasked with joining the heavenly army, to fight the darkness that tries to breakthrough. There are some very serious battles and one giant cliffhanger. I’m sorry I took so long to read this because I thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Evan Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the honor of being a Beta reader of this book. This is an extremely unique, action-packed story. The details are vivid. The background and development of the characters was fascinating as well. There are concepts covered that I had considered before. But the book explored these concepts at levels I couldn’t imagine before reading the book. I can’t think of another book or movie that has covered material such as this. I feel a connection to the storyline and characters. I am sure that I will read this book again. I am looking forward to reading the other books in the series. I appreciated the read. Thank you, Eric Maldonado!

[Brad · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was sent this book from the authors and was so glad I had the opportunity to read this well done novel. This is the story of a WW2 veteran that passes away, but once in Heaven is asked to join the battle between good and evil forces. He endures epic scenes of battle, leading a team of warriors against the dark forces. This is an amazing story that is gripping from the onset. I cannot wait for book 2!

[Chad Maldonado · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unique. Compelling. Visually Stunning - the world and character development opened my mind to walking side-by-side through the experiences of each portrayal.

As the brother of the author, I've had the opportunity of reading through the varied stages of the saga's development, and have enjoyed its evolving nature - I believe you will too.

[Diana Lessig · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a little different from what I'm used to reading but it definitely caught my attention and kept it. It was a good read for sure and very interesting thoughts and opinions on the after life. I would recommend this book to all my friends and family especially Booktok friends.

[DLS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Service!

Loved the premise and the character development. Intriguing storyline and well paced. When is the next one published? Give me more!

[Tuney.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

“WOW!”

This is what I thought as I closed the cover of the book after finishing the last page.

A WW2 veteran dies and goes to heaven. While he is united with some people of the past, he has very odd dreams at night…yet they are not dreams…but peeks into reality.

The reality of war in the heavenlies between good and evil. A battle of revenge.

The veteran, Gerald, is chosen to lead a team of people into this war.

This story has a lot of spiritual elements to it…Heaven, Hell, Angels, Demons, Fallen Angels, Archangels. This is not a Christian novel, just adopts some aspects of it.

This book is written with the perfect pace…you knew details and did not get bored and the writing was never “wordy”.

I have not read anything like this since Frank Peretti’s “This Present Darkness”. This was a very intriguing book and cannot wait for this story to continue!!!

[Jacob Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

A WW2 veteran dies and goes to heaven. While he is united with some people of the past, he has very odd dreams at night…yet they are not dreams…but peek.. I was doing a book review on this book for. @ERIC MALDONADO Author but I could not finish it. I’m sorry I could not get into it that well because I could not understand the whole story it would not my cup of tea, but it was OK. It’s just not my type of book I like that I usually listen to you, but don’t take my word for it. Get it listen to the book and for yourself and see if you like the book that my opinion but if I had to rate it I would say four stars and a half or three I don’t know how to rate it lol !!


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[Kaycee Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb Storytelling!

Eric Maldonado does a masterful job of bringing this characterful story to life with vibrant descriptions and ushers the reader through captivating scenery from earthbound to heavenly journeys. ‘Service’ is an action-packed thrill ride with some especially intense, descriptive battle scenarios. The story stands out for its unique blend of action and ability to initiate profound, introspective thoughts about the new world that’s being presented. The storytelling is a nonstop adventure that engages the reader, connecting with a myriad of emotions.

Mr. Maldonado’s work is a superb debut novel and I’m totally looking forward to the next installment and the continuation of the series

[Joe Grande · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book! Reading it now a second time, to catch things that I missed the first time around. I’ve read hundreds of science fiction / fantasy books over the past four decades, engulfed by authors like Piers Anthony, Roger Zelazny, Fred Saberhagen, Alan Dean Foster, etc… Well, Eric Maldonado belongs on the book shelf right next to them. I am looking forward to the second book, the first one leaves some cliffhangers……. Enjoy !

[Pulse Sphere · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first line, this story’s concept drew me in. The idea of Heaven itself under siege is both original and awe inspiring. Gerald’s journey from war hero to celestial warrior feels deeply human yet beautifully epic. It’s a story that explores bravery, sacrifice, and the power of one soul to change everything. Even in summary form, it’s clear this tale will blend emotion, action, and purpose in all the right ways. Truly unforgettable!

[Fabain · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is like holding a candle in a dark room gentle, comforting, and somehow powerful enough to change how you see everything. The atmosphere is stunning, the writing lyrical, and the concept daring in the best possible way. I felt connected to both protagonists in ways I did not anticipate, and I closed the book feeling uplifted, reflective, and grateful. Rarely does fiction remind me why stories matter. This one does.

[Nicholaus Sprowl · Rating 5 out of 5]

From page 1, line 1, i was hooked. This book doesn't have low gear. Right when you think, "It has to slow down somewhere, "..another limb gets torn asunder l. Another skull flattened another spear skewers. I can't wait for the next 2 books

[maltida · Rating 5 out of 5]

The character of Gerald is a standout his journey from a selfless World War II veteran to a soul chosen for a higher purpose is both moving and powerful. You feel his reluctance, his courage, and ultimately his growth as he faces a darkness threatening not just one world, but the universe itself.

[Gretchen Astro Astro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great person (had the pleasure of meeting Eric in our favorite Asbury Park, Jersey Shore, coffee shop), great book ... Eric's strong and kind heart of gold shines in the message here!

[M. Kendall · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read. The supernatural, bad ass female.characters, heaven, hell...Judas? This book was a wild ride. If you like your third person pov and action this is the book for you.
The ending too....chefs kiss. can't wait to see where book 2 goes.