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The Sand Dweller
In the ancient mountains of the Sinai desert, a child is born. The half-demon son of the devil’s greatest general, Malachi grows up with one foot in the human world and one in the darkest pits of Hell itself. Soon, a power struggle will force him to choose. Will he claim the dark heritage promised to him by Lucifer? Or will he learn firsthand just how far evil will go to destroy mankind?
Caleb Glass is a young priest with a flourishing flock and a successful church. Plagued by strange visions and a tragic past, he’s also beginning to question his faith. When he’s suddenly thrust into an ancient feud, Caleb must decide whether wearing the collar is a part of God's plan, or an excuse to hide from his pain.
Is it possible for a broken priest and a sand dweller to achieve redemption, or are they both doomed by circumstance beyond their control?
Caleb Glass is a young priest with a flourishing flock and a successful church. Plagued by strange visions and a tragic past, he’s also beginning to question his faith. When he’s suddenly thrust into an ancient feud, Caleb must decide whether wearing the collar is a part of God's plan, or an excuse to hide from his pain.
Is it possible for a broken priest and a sand dweller to achieve redemption, or are they both doomed by circumstance beyond their control?
153 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 10, 2016
2 people are currently reading
271 people want to read
About the author
Molly Neely
8 books40 followersme
welcome to my page...
I am a life long reader of everything, from history, theology, and politics, to vampires. No longer settling for being just a reader, I decided to make the transition to writer!
I have an eclectic style and a wide range of tastes, including (but not limited to) pre-code classic movies, punk music, and anything with bacon in it.
When I'm not putting in 40 hours at my regular job, I'm busy reading, writing, aaaaand preparing for the Zombie Apocalypse. I live in the heart of the San Joaquin valley in California, with my super awesome husband, and my Whippet, named Devo.
welcome to my page...
I am a life long reader of everything, from history, theology, and politics, to vampires. No longer settling for being just a reader, I decided to make the transition to writer!
I have an eclectic style and a wide range of tastes, including (but not limited to) pre-code classic movies, punk music, and anything with bacon in it.
When I'm not putting in 40 hours at my regular job, I'm busy reading, writing, aaaaand preparing for the Zombie Apocalypse. I live in the heart of the San Joaquin valley in California, with my super awesome husband, and my Whippet, named Devo.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 7, 2017
I won this book from the author's online launch party.
This book is outside of my norm for reading, but I found I really enjoyed it! It's a fast paced story jumping from different eras in what is an internal battle of good against evil. Once you reach the halfway point or so, it's hard to put down! I enjoyed how some historical biblical stories were weaved into this book's plot and put Malachi right in the middle!
From one author to another, great job on your debut book, Molly! I look forward to reading more!!
This book is outside of my norm for reading, but I found I really enjoyed it! It's a fast paced story jumping from different eras in what is an internal battle of good against evil. Once you reach the halfway point or so, it's hard to put down! I enjoyed how some historical biblical stories were weaved into this book's plot and put Malachi right in the middle!
From one author to another, great job on your debut book, Molly! I look forward to reading more!!
July 15, 2023
Modern day priest struggling from what he has done. Add in Malachi (half human and half demon) who struggles with his life overall. Interesting read.
January 25, 2017
An adventure spanning centuries
A demonic hero struggles across the years to save his soul. An epic journey with fast paced action that ties mythical characters and religious figures into an amazing story.
Is there any good left in a demon from hell? Could he sire a half human boy that will succeed in gaining forgiveness and redemption? Get a copy of this awesome book to find out!
A demonic hero struggles across the years to save his soul. An epic journey with fast paced action that ties mythical characters and religious figures into an amazing story.
Is there any good left in a demon from hell? Could he sire a half human boy that will succeed in gaining forgiveness and redemption? Get a copy of this awesome book to find out!
December 8, 2016
What an amazing story. Even though I read some of the reviews before getting the book, I still wasn't exactly sure what kind of story I'd be reading. Well, now I know what kind--an amazing one. A half-breed demon, Malachi, wants to renounce his demonic father's ways and follow in the footsteps of the only person who was willing to take him in and love him. He spends the rest of his days searching for the God of his adopted father. But another half-breed, Ra, is at every turn to torment him, trying to convince him to renounce his quest and take his place in Hell's army where he belongs. This is a story about faith, about discovery, about dealing with and overcoming your past and working towards a future that is uncertain. It spans many centuries with quarreling demons, Heavenly Hosts, Egypt, Israel, the Pharoah, the Messiah, Adam's first wife, Lillith...and a priest who is unsure of his calling. How does it all come together? You'll have to read the story. And you won't be disappointed.
October 1, 2016
DEBUT NOVEL TAKES THE READER ON A PILGRIMAGE THROUGH TIME & FAITH
The Sand Dweller throws the curtains back and exposes the devil’s darkest secrets, God’s Perfect Plans and one boy’s 5,000 year journey on the road to redemption
We all understand what it feels like to be pulled in different directions. It’s easy to become confused about who and what we should be swearing our allegiance to. Many times, our common sense and our emotions lock horns, with us right in the middle of the battle. The Sand Dweller is a paranormal thriller that not only showcases that battle, but highlights the value of patience, sacrifice and determination. To nail home the theme of perseverance, the author’s main protagonist is an immortal. As an ageless character, Malachi shows us that no matter how old we get, or how long we have to wait, we can always benefit from a lesson in patience.
The Sand Dweller throws the curtains back and exposes the devil’s darkest secrets, God’s Perfect Plans and one boy’s 5,000 year journey on the road to redemption
We all understand what it feels like to be pulled in different directions. It’s easy to become confused about who and what we should be swearing our allegiance to. Many times, our common sense and our emotions lock horns, with us right in the middle of the battle. The Sand Dweller is a paranormal thriller that not only showcases that battle, but highlights the value of patience, sacrifice and determination. To nail home the theme of perseverance, the author’s main protagonist is an immortal. As an ageless character, Malachi shows us that no matter how old we get, or how long we have to wait, we can always benefit from a lesson in patience.
December 28, 2016
Molly Neely has given us a historical look into a battle between evil and faith that spans millennia. This is a well written novel that introduces the reader into events of the past along with her views on the Savior, Saint Peter and the Arch Angel Michael.
Malachi is the half breed son of a demon and a human that fights within himself which half to covet. He knows he wants to be human, but the constant intimidation and pressure provided by Lucifer’s minions make it difficult to obtain as they constantly eliminate his allies.
Father Caleb is a modern day priest that struggles with his faith due to his past. He has a successful church and promising flock. Then he is suddenly thrust into the Malachi dilemma.
This is an exciting read.
Malachi is the half breed son of a demon and a human that fights within himself which half to covet. He knows he wants to be human, but the constant intimidation and pressure provided by Lucifer’s minions make it difficult to obtain as they constantly eliminate his allies.
Father Caleb is a modern day priest that struggles with his faith due to his past. He has a successful church and promising flock. Then he is suddenly thrust into the Malachi dilemma.
This is an exciting read.
February 9, 2017
Molly Neely has given us a historical look into a battle between evil and faith that spans millennia. This is a well written novel that introduces the reader into events of the past along with her views on the Savior, Saint Peter and the Arch Angel Michael.
Malachi is the half breed son of a demon and a human that fights within himself which half to covet. He knows he wants to be human, but the constant intimidation and pressure provided by Lucifer’s minions make it difficult to obtain as they constantly eliminate his allies.
Father Caleb is a modern day priest that struggles with his faith due to his past. He has a successful church and promising flock. Then he is suddenly thrust into the Malachi dilemma.
This is an exciting read.
Malachi is the half breed son of a demon and a human that fights within himself which half to covet. He knows he wants to be human, but the constant intimidation and pressure provided by Lucifer’s minions make it difficult to obtain as they constantly eliminate his allies.
Father Caleb is a modern day priest that struggles with his faith due to his past. He has a successful church and promising flock. Then he is suddenly thrust into the Malachi dilemma.
This is an exciting read.
Read
March 14, 2021The Sand Dweller is a tale about a half demon who lives through the ages looking for redemption for the sins of his demon father. His journey takes him to Ancient Egypt, Jerusalem, Rome, and Scotland. The book has heavy Christian and historical influences.
I do not usually read fiction like this, but I still enjoyed this book, especially the vivid settings, including an epic battle in ancient Egypt. I also really enjoyed the character of Caleb, the priest who had started to question his faith.
I do not usually read fiction like this, but I still enjoyed this book, especially the vivid settings, including an epic battle in ancient Egypt. I also really enjoyed the character of Caleb, the priest who had started to question his faith.
January 19, 2017
I loved this book! It kept me captivated throughout. I'd intended to go back and forth between a mystery I'd already begun and this book, but this book was so entertaining that it wouldn't let me go. If you're looking for a good story that keeps calling you back to read more, this is the book for you!
January 23, 2017
Great Read
I really enjoyed this work of Christian fiction. The story spans many time periods & places. The journey of a half-demon, half-man was very interesting. Glad I ran across this novel and looking forward to more from the author!
I really enjoyed this work of Christian fiction. The story spans many time periods & places. The journey of a half-demon, half-man was very interesting. Glad I ran across this novel and looking forward to more from the author!
May 31, 2018
In the depths of Hell, a wage takes place between Lilith and Azazael. Both of them will plant a son on the surface (our world) and their fates will be forever entwined until one defeats the other in an epic battle that is carried across the ages. <--THIS.
It's been such a long time since I've read something that I actually LOVED from beginning to end. Molly Neely's style is compelling and hooked me from the start. This is a story that leaps from ancient times to the present day, which is a hard thing to do as a writer, and the author nailed it from the start. I never lost track of the sequence, it was so good! The way she knits historical facts into the plot is beautifully done, and I wish I could say more but for fear of spoiling, I'll steer away from this.
Malachi is such a well-rounded character. His ardent desire for redemption made me love him from the get-go. Throughout the pages, I rooted for Malachi, I laughed with him, suffered with him, and at the end, I cried because of *spoilers* what happened. I think it's safe to say I was emotionally invested in the story, which happens rarely to me to THAT extent. The rest of the characters were unique and richly dimensional, and Ra --Malachi's opponent-- won my disdain. Ugh, hateful creature. Now, on the other hand, Lucifer.... he's too naughty in a charming way, which is a reminder of just how appealing true Evil can be, hehe.
This is a beautiful story of redemption, and I've also recently learned there is to be a sequel--so happy for that! I can't wait to hear more from Malachi's adventures!!
It's been such a long time since I've read something that I actually LOVED from beginning to end. Molly Neely's style is compelling and hooked me from the start. This is a story that leaps from ancient times to the present day, which is a hard thing to do as a writer, and the author nailed it from the start. I never lost track of the sequence, it was so good! The way she knits historical facts into the plot is beautifully done, and I wish I could say more but for fear of spoiling, I'll steer away from this.
Malachi is such a well-rounded character. His ardent desire for redemption made me love him from the get-go. Throughout the pages, I rooted for Malachi, I laughed with him, suffered with him, and at the end, I cried because of *spoilers* what happened. I think it's safe to say I was emotionally invested in the story, which happens rarely to me to THAT extent. The rest of the characters were unique and richly dimensional, and Ra --Malachi's opponent-- won my disdain. Ugh, hateful creature. Now, on the other hand, Lucifer.... he's too naughty in a charming way, which is a reminder of just how appealing true Evil can be, hehe.
This is a beautiful story of redemption, and I've also recently learned there is to be a sequel--so happy for that! I can't wait to hear more from Malachi's adventures!!
July 3, 2017
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This review will be short, and for that I'm sorry. But I am struggling to word what I need to say about this book.
I'm not entirely sure what I think, to be honest, about this book. There is a lot of flipping between the past and present, and while each change is headed, there is much missing from each flip.
I felt that more could have been made of the NOW, rather than the past.
It's well written from a host of different points of view, and I did like that. I didn't spot any spelling or editing errors.
I just....*insert sigh*... don't see what the whole point of the story was. It's been left opened ended, maybe for another book, I don't know, it just....*insert ARGH!!!!!* ....I can't word it.
I gave it three stars, because we do get to hear from everyone, and I did finish it.
3 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
This review will be short, and for that I'm sorry. But I am struggling to word what I need to say about this book.
I'm not entirely sure what I think, to be honest, about this book. There is a lot of flipping between the past and present, and while each change is headed, there is much missing from each flip.
I felt that more could have been made of the NOW, rather than the past.
It's well written from a host of different points of view, and I did like that. I didn't spot any spelling or editing errors.
I just....*insert sigh*... don't see what the whole point of the story was. It's been left opened ended, maybe for another book, I don't know, it just....*insert ARGH!!!!!* ....I can't word it.
I gave it three stars, because we do get to hear from everyone, and I did finish it.
3 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
September 6, 2023
ASTOUNDING
I was drawn to the beautifully illustrated cover of this book; however, even as amazing as the cover is, the content with the Biblical context of this story is absolutely astounding! The well-thought-out characters’ names and many of the events in the narrative had me digging into my Bible. Conversely, this can be read as simply an extremely entertaining story. I’m glad I already purchased ORCUS CHILD!
Intriguing aside for anyone interested in the meaning of Biblical numbers. . . I went to Amazon to post my review of SAND DWELLER, and as I was scrolling down the page, two numbers caught my attention – first, “Best Sellers Rank: #666,218 in Kindle Store,” and second, “#444 in Christian Fantasy.”
I was drawn to the beautifully illustrated cover of this book; however, even as amazing as the cover is, the content with the Biblical context of this story is absolutely astounding! The well-thought-out characters’ names and many of the events in the narrative had me digging into my Bible. Conversely, this can be read as simply an extremely entertaining story. I’m glad I already purchased ORCUS CHILD!
Intriguing aside for anyone interested in the meaning of Biblical numbers. . . I went to Amazon to post my review of SAND DWELLER, and as I was scrolling down the page, two numbers caught my attention – first, “Best Sellers Rank: #666,218 in Kindle Store,” and second, “#444 in Christian Fantasy.”
July 9, 2017
Author Molly Neely takes on a a tale that spans the whole of human history from the ancient Egyptian days up to the prescient day. The Sand Dweller deals with the story of one man named Malachi who is half human and his fight against the Sun God Ra, although this Ra is the birth of the vampire legend and not the one that we see in Stargate. Along the course of the book Malachi turns toward the one true God in order to be saved but he fights Ra at every step, the ending will leave you wanting to know what will happen to him. I do recommend that if you like fantasy that you pick up a copy.
July 14, 2023
Battle for the Ages
Neely wraps history, the Gospel, and paranormal stories of good and evil together with a smooth touch. Sand Dweller provides readers with a unique coming of age story drenched in tales of faith. I highly recommend reading it.
Neely wraps history, the Gospel, and paranormal stories of good and evil together with a smooth touch. Sand Dweller provides readers with a unique coming of age story drenched in tales of faith. I highly recommend reading it.
June 22, 2017
I started reading this book full of scepticism. Was a book that had a semi biblical back story going to work for me?
It really absolutely did!!
I thoroughly enjoyed every second of it and it carried me along to the conclusion which I really didn't want to come.
I loved the character of Malachi who was a great character and a who could at any point have taken another path, except for the love he held from his father. Even though he has a tattoo on his arm he doesn't know what it says and is amazed by its meaning.
I cannot recommend reading this book more. I will definitely read more from Molly Neelly.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
It really absolutely did!!
I thoroughly enjoyed every second of it and it carried me along to the conclusion which I really didn't want to come.
I loved the character of Malachi who was a great character and a who could at any point have taken another path, except for the love he held from his father. Even though he has a tattoo on his arm he doesn't know what it says and is amazed by its meaning.
I cannot recommend reading this book more. I will definitely read more from Molly Neelly.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
April 1, 2017
This book, my Gentle Readers, is a fantastic journey of one man's quest to overcome his birthright and find redemption.
Molly weaves classic Christian And Egyptian figures into a tale stretching from thousands of years BC, to present day.
Lucifer's top general in Hell, Azazeal, has a desire to possess the fallen first female, Lilith. He proposes a bet, a winner take all battle between a single offspring from each of them. With Lucifer's blessing they begin.
What follows is a spiritual journey that challenges the concept of "nurture vs. nature", begging the question "Can one overcome their birthright?" Malachi bin Sinai, son of Azazeal, would like to know. His path weaves from ancient Egypt, past the crucifixion, a stint as a Roman gladiator, to end in a brutal battle with his nemesis, Ra.
I couldn't put this one down and I doubt you will be able to either.
Molly weaves classic Christian And Egyptian figures into a tale stretching from thousands of years BC, to present day.
Lucifer's top general in Hell, Azazeal, has a desire to possess the fallen first female, Lilith. He proposes a bet, a winner take all battle between a single offspring from each of them. With Lucifer's blessing they begin.
What follows is a spiritual journey that challenges the concept of "nurture vs. nature", begging the question "Can one overcome their birthright?" Malachi bin Sinai, son of Azazeal, would like to know. His path weaves from ancient Egypt, past the crucifixion, a stint as a Roman gladiator, to end in a brutal battle with his nemesis, Ra.
I couldn't put this one down and I doubt you will be able to either.
April 4, 2017
I enjoyed this book very much. The author's historical research is apparent and thorough. Her characters are very strong and multi-dimensional (even the 'good guys' are severely flawed at times) which makes them even more believable. The action is engaging and very human in its detail and delivery - though it sometimes takes place with immortal beings. There are some Christian elements in the story that, in my opinion as a non-Christian, were very much needed, given the subject matter, the characters and the settings. But the book does not preach. The author is a very gifted storyteller who has the rare ability to create a very visual mental image, giving the reader the feeling that they are watching a movie - rather than reading a book. The extremely short chapters are vignettes in time, jumping back and forth between present day and the very distant past. At first, it seemed 'jolting' but the way the story is told I found the jumps to be crafted, and perfect for the story. I will not reveal the ending but suffice it to say that it leaves itself open to a sequel which I would be very interested in reading.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews