What do you think?
Rate this book
Hidden Thrones
Jack Bennett has an unusual gift. His coveted ability means he is the FBI’s newest hire, serving as a consultant for their new Paranormal Division.
The government is convinced we are not alone in this world. With invisible forces all around, agencies are seeking how to harness that power for their own uses. The mystery swirling around the unseen and unknown has caused much speculation. Some suppose lost souls are wandering the earth, others believe deceased loved ones never truly moved on, and still there are those who are convinced that aliens have infiltrated our world.
Jack Bennett knows better. He knows who and what these powers are. The ancient scriptures talk about a great evil that was conceived in the depths of eternity. There, a great war occurred in a place called Heaven. Lucifer, the ancient serpent, the evil dragon of folklore, was cast out and bound to the earth and confined to its surrounding atmosphere.
Could it be that the evil we see is inspired by a dark kingdom, a demonic spiritual force at war with the human race? Could these princes and rulers of darkness be influencing our world today? Jack Bennett knows this is the truth. He knows because he encounters them every day.
Follow Jack Bennett in the first of a five part series as he battles the realm of Hidden Thrones.
The government is convinced we are not alone in this world. With invisible forces all around, agencies are seeking how to harness that power for their own uses. The mystery swirling around the unseen and unknown has caused much speculation. Some suppose lost souls are wandering the earth, others believe deceased loved ones never truly moved on, and still there are those who are convinced that aliens have infiltrated our world.
Jack Bennett knows better. He knows who and what these powers are. The ancient scriptures talk about a great evil that was conceived in the depths of eternity. There, a great war occurred in a place called Heaven. Lucifer, the ancient serpent, the evil dragon of folklore, was cast out and bound to the earth and confined to its surrounding atmosphere.
Could it be that the evil we see is inspired by a dark kingdom, a demonic spiritual force at war with the human race? Could these princes and rulers of darkness be influencing our world today? Jack Bennett knows this is the truth. He knows because he encounters them every day.
Follow Jack Bennett in the first of a five part series as he battles the realm of Hidden Thrones.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 6, 2015
234 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Russ Scalzo
23 books24 followersA frequent lecturer in Biblical Prophecy, Russ brings a lifetime of technical expertise to a story he believes may very well be the substance of tomorrow's headlines. "On the Edge of Time" began in 1994 as a 50-page short story named for the newspaper the protagonist writes for, "Chronicles of the End Times."
After a few years, Russ resumed writing with Steve Mamchak and ultimately split the completed novel "On the Edge of Time" into two captivating parts.
Russ's new series HIDDEN THRONES is
an exciting thriller pitting demons and angels in a battle for control of planet earth.
In the 1960's and 70's, Russ Scalzo was the front man for The Hallmarks, a band popular along the Jersey Shore, and scored a record contract with Mercury Records. After a life changing decision, he went from performing in bars to ministering in churches and touring the country with his band, Saved By Grace. He has written too many songs to count, including music for several original musicals. He is the co-founder and president of a non-profit Christian theater company based in New Jersey, Lighthouse Stage Productions.
Russ currently serves as a teacher and elder at Searchlight Church. He resides on the Jersey Shore with his wife of 40+ years. He is a father of three and grandfather of five.
After a few years, Russ resumed writing with Steve Mamchak and ultimately split the completed novel "On the Edge of Time" into two captivating parts.
Russ's new series HIDDEN THRONES is
an exciting thriller pitting demons and angels in a battle for control of planet earth.
In the 1960's and 70's, Russ Scalzo was the front man for The Hallmarks, a band popular along the Jersey Shore, and scored a record contract with Mercury Records. After a life changing decision, he went from performing in bars to ministering in churches and touring the country with his band, Saved By Grace. He has written too many songs to count, including music for several original musicals. He is the co-founder and president of a non-profit Christian theater company based in New Jersey, Lighthouse Stage Productions.
Russ currently serves as a teacher and elder at Searchlight Church. He resides on the Jersey Shore with his wife of 40+ years. He is a father of three and grandfather of five.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 9, 2016
Spirit-filled fiction in a political thriller, what a treat!
I'd almost given up on the genre. I'm so sick of serial fornicators, torturous, and rage-driven anti-heroes. This one got to me: exciting, action-filled, complex, and compelling. What great fun!
Except, of course, it stopped just as it got interesting. I imagine the worldly might complain a bit. But, for believers, this tale is a joy.
I'd almost given up on the genre. I'm so sick of serial fornicators, torturous, and rage-driven anti-heroes. This one got to me: exciting, action-filled, complex, and compelling. What great fun!
Except, of course, it stopped just as it got interesting. I imagine the worldly might complain a bit. But, for believers, this tale is a joy.
February 19, 2024
This one of those kind of intense books about spiritual warfare. I find these books stir the soul and encourage a Christian to pray more, because the story shows us the incredible value of prayer and how much it influences the spiritual dimension. I know this book is fiction, but the story it tells gives us glimpses into a real dimension where angels and demons are hard at work. The story is about Jack Bennett, a strong Christian who God uses against demons. And FBI agent Frank who works with Jack. As the story progresses a romance develops between Jack and a woman (I won't tell who). There is also a strong political aspect where a strong demon is working to gain power through a willing candidate. The book has some resemblance to a far earlier book (probably 40 yrs old) "This Present Darkness" by Frank Peretti. These books are wake-up calls to the reality of good versus evil in this world.
July 5, 2024
This is one of those novels I almost hate to review....
The good parts were very very good,
and the not so good, were..... not so good!!!
What do I mean?
Well, I will start with the parts I did NOT like first.
I have noticed that,
in general, not always, but often,
Christian men authors,
tend to seemingly think,
to make a novel more realistic....
Even though it is a Christian novel....
they have to add a LOT of:
secular, carnal, lustful, sexual etc. descriptions.
Hello!!!
If I wanted to read that,
I would read secular novels!
I already 'know' how the world talks, thinks, and acts
I do NOT need to read that kind of lecherousness in great detail!
Secondly, the love interest was far far far too fast!
Yes, I get that it takes place in the end times,
but kissing on the first date for a 'Christian' couple?
Andthe kissing, hugging, etc. only continues more,
on the 2nd and 3rd dates.
That is a recipe for potential sexual disaster..
NOT love,
that was sensual....
True a Christian man ( or woman) may indeed have such feelings,
but in a true caring, and budding true love,
they would not be inclined to put the other one,
in such a possible, and even probable, compromising situation,
especially not on the first, second and third dates!
That is NOT a good example, for baby Christians,
who might read his series,
and even less for non-believers!
Thirdly, there is a LOT of humans 'fighting' demonic beings!
I do have to hand it to the author, that he does state,
people are NOT to directly try to fight a demon!
They need to call on the Lord,
or at the very least,
demand the demon leave based on Jesus's strength etc.
And, although there were some interesting moments based on this
demonic struggle and focus,
it got to be too much, for me.
So what did I like, after all the negatives?
I liked all the scriptures included, and the application to their lives.
I loved that the main characters always focused on prayer.
I loved the up to date news of what is going on in the world today!
So I was conflicted between giving this novel 3 stars,
and for some parts a 5 star,
so I settled on 4.
I am hoping the sexual aspects will be toned down in the next book in the series,
and I will give it a try....
The good parts were very very good,
and the not so good, were..... not so good!!!
What do I mean?
Well, I will start with the parts I did NOT like first.
I have noticed that,
in general, not always, but often,
Christian men authors,
tend to seemingly think,
to make a novel more realistic....
Even though it is a Christian novel....
they have to add a LOT of:
secular, carnal, lustful, sexual etc. descriptions.
Hello!!!
If I wanted to read that,
I would read secular novels!
I already 'know' how the world talks, thinks, and acts
I do NOT need to read that kind of lecherousness in great detail!
Secondly, the love interest was far far far too fast!
Yes, I get that it takes place in the end times,
but kissing on the first date for a 'Christian' couple?
Andthe kissing, hugging, etc. only continues more,
on the 2nd and 3rd dates.
That is a recipe for potential sexual disaster..
NOT love,
that was sensual....
True a Christian man ( or woman) may indeed have such feelings,
but in a true caring, and budding true love,
they would not be inclined to put the other one,
in such a possible, and even probable, compromising situation,
especially not on the first, second and third dates!
That is NOT a good example, for baby Christians,
who might read his series,
and even less for non-believers!
Thirdly, there is a LOT of humans 'fighting' demonic beings!
I do have to hand it to the author, that he does state,
people are NOT to directly try to fight a demon!
They need to call on the Lord,
or at the very least,
demand the demon leave based on Jesus's strength etc.
And, although there were some interesting moments based on this
demonic struggle and focus,
it got to be too much, for me.
So what did I like, after all the negatives?
I liked all the scriptures included, and the application to their lives.
I loved that the main characters always focused on prayer.
I loved the up to date news of what is going on in the world today!
So I was conflicted between giving this novel 3 stars,
and for some parts a 5 star,
so I settled on 4.
I am hoping the sexual aspects will be toned down in the next book in the series,
and I will give it a try....
December 19, 2022
Great Christian supernatural story of God and believers vs evil
This was a very well developed story with interesting characters. Certainly one full of surprises and unanticipated twists. The book is full of the supernatural that one would expect in reading the Gospels, epistles and the old testament. Allowing us to see what God can do with faith, submission and prayer when we are obedient to Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit. The book makes it clear (as does the Word) that demons and the devil lose and God is sovereign.
This was a very well developed story with interesting characters. Certainly one full of surprises and unanticipated twists. The book is full of the supernatural that one would expect in reading the Gospels, epistles and the old testament. Allowing us to see what God can do with faith, submission and prayer when we are obedient to Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit. The book makes it clear (as does the Word) that demons and the devil lose and God is sovereign.
June 12, 2021
Awesome book, I highly recommend it.
I know this is a book that is recommended for teenagers at least that’s what it said. However, I am in my mid-40s and once I started reading it, I could not stop. This is a supernatural thriller. I could not put it down for a minute. It is an eye-opener. This is an awesome read. I absolutely loved it. I recommend it for all ages. Get this book in fact, get the whole series. You will not regret it.
I know this is a book that is recommended for teenagers at least that’s what it said. However, I am in my mid-40s and once I started reading it, I could not stop. This is a supernatural thriller. I could not put it down for a minute. It is an eye-opener. This is an awesome read. I absolutely loved it. I recommend it for all ages. Get this book in fact, get the whole series. You will not regret it.
January 9, 2022
Hidden Thrones
WOW! That really doesn't express it enough. Spiritual warfare is the topic. This first in a series brings to mind a couple authors I've read several years ago on the same subject, Frank Peretti, This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness; C.S. Lewis, Screwtape Letters; Randy Alcorn, Lord Foulgrin's Letters and The Ishbane Conspiracy , exciting authors. Looking forward to continue this series.
WOW! That really doesn't express it enough. Spiritual warfare is the topic. This first in a series brings to mind a couple authors I've read several years ago on the same subject, Frank Peretti, This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness; C.S. Lewis, Screwtape Letters; Randy Alcorn, Lord Foulgrin's Letters and The Ishbane Conspiracy , exciting authors. Looking forward to continue this series.
August 26, 2021
WOW!
WOW, I did not see that coming! A new take on evil and demons at the beginning of the End Times. Strong interesting characters, making you care about them and where their lives are heading. But that ending just hit me upside the head! I usually get at least a sense of where things are headed; not this time. Definitely continuing the series!
WOW, I did not see that coming! A new take on evil and demons at the beginning of the End Times. Strong interesting characters, making you care about them and where their lives are heading. But that ending just hit me upside the head! I usually get at least a sense of where things are headed; not this time. Definitely continuing the series!
August 30, 2017
All I can say is WOW, EXCELLENT!
O was interested in the spiritual warfare concept in the story. This was written to inform, teach and challenge believers to pray and seek the Lord more. Awesome. I'm getting next book tonight.
O was interested in the spiritual warfare concept in the story. This was written to inform, teach and challenge believers to pray and seek the Lord more. Awesome. I'm getting next book tonight.
January 6, 2018
Very good Christian fiction
A very good story. I have enjoyed this story, it was well written. The characters are engaging and the story moves at a good pace. I plan to read the rest.
A very good story. I have enjoyed this story, it was well written. The characters are engaging and the story moves at a good pace. I plan to read the rest.
February 7, 2018
Hidden Thrones
Awesome book. Great story line that doesn't stray from the truth and gives us all a deeper understanding of what we are facing. Can't wait to read the next boom in this series.
Awesome book. Great story line that doesn't stray from the truth and gives us all a deeper understanding of what we are facing. Can't wait to read the next boom in this series.
July 29, 2019
Truth in a story
This kept me up reading at night and throughout the next day until I got to the last page... Now I must say it flows well and the scripture is woven into the story line with such beautiful accuracy...I am on to the 2nd book I just can't wait
This kept me up reading at night and throughout the next day until I got to the last page... Now I must say it flows well and the scripture is woven into the story line with such beautiful accuracy...I am on to the 2nd book I just can't wait
May 16, 2020
Spirit-filled fiction in a political thriller!
I do love to read, but I especially love good writing. This author's descriptions created vivid images in my mind, and the characters seemed to jump off the pages and engulf me in the story. The story itself is fantastic! It is poetic, engaging, and written beautifully. I highly recommend it. Glad I came across this book. Spirit-filled fiction in a political thriller!
I do love to read, but I especially love good writing. This author's descriptions created vivid images in my mind, and the characters seemed to jump off the pages and engulf me in the story. The story itself is fantastic! It is poetic, engaging, and written beautifully. I highly recommend it. Glad I came across this book. Spirit-filled fiction in a political thriller!
July 21, 2020
Very enlightening
As a Christian we are seeing and living unprecedented times which can cause your thinking to spiral to dark and unstable times. This book reiterate the fact that we need now more than ever to stay in God holy word and stay focused on him.
As a Christian we are seeing and living unprecedented times which can cause your thinking to spiral to dark and unstable times. This book reiterate the fact that we need now more than ever to stay in God holy word and stay focused on him.
June 10, 2021
Christian Intrigue
At first I thought this was just a cheesy Christian devil fighting book. But the correct usage of Bible reference and some well thought out characters changed my skepticism. However, some of the demon activity is cheesy and comical.
At first I thought this was just a cheesy Christian devil fighting book. But the correct usage of Bible reference and some well thought out characters changed my skepticism. However, some of the demon activity is cheesy and comical.
July 11, 2021
First in series
The writing was mediocre. That is how it seemed to.me. it did not grab my interest enough to want to follow the series. Others may feel differently. One review said the writing reminded him of Frank Peretti but I do not see the similarities
The writing was mediocre. That is how it seemed to.me. it did not grab my interest enough to want to follow the series. Others may feel differently. One review said the writing reminded him of Frank Peretti but I do not see the similarities
March 13, 2023
Angels and demons Demons
Not the other kind, the real kind. Great book, interesting story, true to the Bible, and a smashing ending!! Love the characters and the impact prayer has on every aspect of the story. Can’t wait to read the next book!
Not the other kind, the real kind. Great book, interesting story, true to the Bible, and a smashing ending!! Love the characters and the impact prayer has on every aspect of the story. Can’t wait to read the next book!
November 16, 2023
A Prayer Warrior's Help
Even though this is fiction, it has value in directing me how to pray and prepare for battle. Thanks for writing it. But, could you go through the end of the book? The errors take away from the impact of the message.
Even though this is fiction, it has value in directing me how to pray and prepare for battle. Thanks for writing it. But, could you go through the end of the book? The errors take away from the impact of the message.
December 20, 2023
Beautiful show of a Christian life
This book is wonderful! It sticks close to scripture. The book is well written and draws you into the life of the characters. It shows the true life of a true Christian walking close to God!
This book is wonderful! It sticks close to scripture. The book is well written and draws you into the life of the characters. It shows the true life of a true Christian walking close to God!
July 21, 2024
I really enjoy spiritual warfare stories and this one was great. I had to look and see when it was published because the situations could have been out of today’s news. I’m definitely continuing the series.
August 11, 2024
There is so much suspense in this book!
The idea of fighting demons is terrifying, but if you accept that there are angels, then you have to know there are demons.
I love Jack's character, for how he puts prayer front and center of every part of his life.
I cannot wait to se where the story goes in book 2.
The idea of fighting demons is terrifying, but if you accept that there are angels, then you have to know there are demons.
I love Jack's character, for how he puts prayer front and center of every part of his life.
I cannot wait to se where the story goes in book 2.
July 1, 2017
Loved it
Great plot. I can't wait to read the next one. I wasn't expecting the ending. But, it just made me more anxious to continue reading.
Great plot. I can't wait to read the next one. I wasn't expecting the ending. But, it just made me more anxious to continue reading.
February 12, 2018
Excellent Book! Loved the ending! I went immediately to Book 2.... :o)
May 7, 2018
I really enjoyed the writing style of Russ Scalzo and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
June 13, 2020
The writing is so simplistic. The plot ok. The surprise ending made up for the so so story line. The ending did make me want to read the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2021
Wow
More than I expected, truly thought provoking. Ready for book two. The ending a real surprise!!! Was completely taken by surprise.
More than I expected, truly thought provoking. Ready for book two. The ending a real surprise!!! Was completely taken by surprise.
July 12, 2021
Definitely an eye opener. This book (and the series) should serve as an eye opener to Christians everywhere.
September 19, 2021
Crap
Waste of time. Don't bother with it. Poor writing style and the plot is answered by just praying on it.
Waste of time. Don't bother with it. Poor writing style and the plot is answered by just praying on it.
December 11, 2021
Very good read
Action packed and well developed characters, with scripture artfully woven into the story without feeling forced. A definite must read!
Action packed and well developed characters, with scripture artfully woven into the story without feeling forced. A definite must read!
July 17, 2023
This is a fantastic series. It has a depth that a studied Christian can sink their teeth into. Kept me reading till late into the night.
November 12, 2023
Great read.
Loved the story line. A book t h arts filled with adventure, drama and romance but keeps God in the story line.
Looking forward to read the continuation of the story.
Loved the story line. A book t h arts filled with adventure, drama and romance but keeps God in the story line.
Looking forward to read the continuation of the story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews