In the quiet farming town of Gallowpoint, nothing ever changes—until people begin to vanish.
At first, it’s only whispers. A missing sheep. An empty house. A name quietly added to a growing list. But as fear spreads, Jerome begins to see what others refuse to
Something is watching.
His father insists everything is under control—trust the routine, say the prayers, keep working. But Jerome sees the truth beneath the surface. A faith spoken but not lived. A darkness that does not wait for permission.
And when the sky itself begins to break, the illusion shatters.
Now Jerome must
follow the hollow safety of his father’s world…
or step into a living faith that may cost him everything.
This allegorical tale was a thought provoking and enjoyable read. There were convicting moments and moments you felt the triumph of victory when characters surrendered to the King of kings.
It was a wonderful tale of what it means to lean on Christ as our righteousness and as our Savior. Interwoven with powerful biblical truths was a compelling narrative.
I read quickly as I was curious what would happen next. Jerome was a realistic character who struggled with what many of us struggle with - pride, lust, trying to do more to get God to love us more. He kept falling but grace kept picking him back up.
Principles of scripture were all through the book which I absolutely loved! There were such poignant truths that were laid out in thought provoking ways. One thing that was a bit distracting was Bible verses thrown in throughout the story - not with a character saying them, but just added between the narrative. It pulled me out of the story every time. Obviously the Word of God is the best thing ever and I love reading my Bible and spending time in God’s Word. When it comes to a novel (even one that’s allegorical) I think it’s better to show not tell.
Overall this was an excellent read and I hope there is a second book so I can see what happens next with Jerome and Laurel!
I reviewed an ARC copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I have read two allegories, John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress and C.S. Lewis' Till We Have Faces. This story should have its place with them.
I don't want to give spoilers, so I'll just tell you the progression of my impressions.
First it seemed simply a moralizing tale, and I wasn't sure what I had gotten myself in for. But the story had an unusual draw, a way of teasing a sense of otherness out of the familiar. Beauties, joys, and realities that go deeper than words.
Then a few chapters in, the conflict hit, well foreshadowed by trouble. And I was hooked. Fearful for Jerome, seeing the truth that he desperately sought, and then seeing the truth in a clearer light myself.
The Holy War - Gallowpoint is a story that brings you to disgust, despair, laughter, tears, and triumph. It brings you to the one Who gives joy that will never end.
Then past all the trials, the pain, and the pressures of life and death, the Giver rises with healing in His wings.
Beyond my impressions was truth. This book is so worth the read. Don't miss it.
I was given an advanced copy of this an let me say it was just awesome. Think pilgrims progress but for this age. I got so caught up in the actual story that at times I wasnt thinking about the allegory part and just waiting to see what happens next. As far as theology goes I am non-denominational and I found this lined up my traditional biblical beliefs. There is scriptures quoted throughout and I thought each times it was used it was accurate. I loved how Jesus is written in this book and that salvation shared throughout. This author did an amazing job and I really think it would be worth reading this amd pilgrims progess and comparing them because there is so much meat in this. I think how the author handled sin and the spirit of Jasabel was perfect. I am so glad I got the opportunity to read this early.
This was an arc copy. This was a wonderful allegory written to pull you in. I appreciate the reality of sin, grace and forgiveness. The way our state was portrayed after receiving salvation was lovely, we stand forgiven but the battle of our flesh continues and we must take a stand in the Lord! Wether saved already or getting a copy for someone on the brink of salvation, possibly a youth coming up into life getting ready to fight the real battles spoken of in the book it's sure to strengthen their faith and bond to Christ Jesus 😊
I received an ARC copy of this book for my honest review.
This was a very interesting story about spiritual warfare and overcoming sin and strongholds. You could feel the author's desire to reveal the Truth of God's Word and the lessons, perhaps, he has learned in his own life. I loved the use of Scripture throughout, and how he showed very real struggle and the consequences of temptation and sin. And the imagery was excellent. I highly recommend this book for every Christian strong in their faith and those who still have questions. And also every person searching for answers.
This is my first time reading a book from this author. I had to force myself to put it down after 100 pages and go to bed. The next night I read the second hundred pages, and finished it the third night. The story line kept me engaged and wanting to know more. The characters were very well developed. After finishing the book, I was wanting more, to know how the story continues. This is a biblically based book and a clean read, which is very refreshing. I really hope the author continues this as a series.
I was given this book to beta read prior to publication. I’ve read the original and the final product respectively and can happily say that this is one of those good Christian Allegory pieces of fiction. The story itself sucks you in and the scripture cries out with every passage and paragraph. Zoromski writes in a way that sucks you in and whether you are a believer or not, there is something here that will rope you in and let you take with you even after you finish the last page.
I was given an advance copy of the book and thought it was a great read! The story takes you on a journey with Jerome in his battle between the darkness and light. Especially liked the scriptures that went along through the story. It had a beautiful love story going on as well. The end with the closing word to the reader was an amazing end to the book. Would highly recommend this book to family and friends
I truly enjoyed this book. I received it from the author, and for that, I am grateful. It is a well written allegory which reveals much truth to the reader who has his/her eyes open. I found the characters to be relatable and the story to be timeless.
I was given an arc copy. A very good read. Couldn't put it down. It really drives home the contrast between self effort and a Spirit led life. The threads of scripture cement the truth of the story. It drives home the importance of surrender and trust.