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The Stranger In Central Park: The Way Between Heaven and Earth
Kirkus "A spiritual tale with an engaging plot..." An absolutely captivating romp between this world and the next! "We do not die. We go on to the next realm where we continue our spiritual journey. So, do not lose your soul trying to protect your body!” This best sums up the message of the title character in this fun, engaging, and spiritually provocative thriller. Written like a blockbuster movie, with an action-packed plot and strong female lead who goes back and forth between Heaven and earth, you won’t want to put it down! "This timely page-turner is packed with spiritual wisdom. It is captivating and enlightening!" --Sarah McLean, best-selling author of Soul Centered With gun violence rampant and the world heading toward World War III, the sudden, miraculous appearance of a mysterious Stranger changes everything! Tens of thousands flock to Central Park to witness his miracles and hear his messages. Millions around the world heed his warning to put down their weapons, throwing the world, which is at war, into a political crisis. This is a battle for the very soul of the human race! ”AMAZING!” “ENGAGING!” “WOW!” “You have never read a book like this!”" Author's People have posted REVIEWS for this book at one or the other FIVE STARS (many) or just ONE (a few). So, BE This novel provokes emotion! Here, real, worldly, and often verbally irreverent New Yorkers attempt to find a way to become free enough to find God their own way. Free from outdated doctrines. Free from dogmatic hypocrisies. Do you possess that same independence, the same courage? ”Fast-paced!” “A delightfully diverse ensemble cast.” “The interwoven lives of the characters unfold from their respective POV’s keeping you on the edge of your seat!” “Read it today!”
- GenresFiction
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 11, 2018
83 people are currently reading
3 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
May 27, 2018
The Stranger In Central Park Is a spiritualistic book not is Spiritual book. There is a differentce There is swearing in it and even worse to me is taking GOD's name in vain that's and when it happened more than once I just couldn't keep on reading so when that happened I just don't think the LORD would appreciate it and that was it. But what I did read it was very slow. I received a copy of this book from the Publisher and Negalley; all of the opinions expressed in this review are all my own.
if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com - I look forward to seeing you there.
if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com - I look forward to seeing you there.
June 6, 2018
The Stranger in Central Park
Thousands flock to Central Park in NY to see what appears to be a magnificent spiritual being surrounded by light and lovely colors who comes and goes and has lightening all around him. Some song and worship and others are determined to stop him and arrest him. Jack Molinaro is mayor and his sister has been found brutally raped and in a coma. What no one knows is she is having a spiritual experience with the stranger learning about peace and joy. Throw into the mix the search in the same vicinity for a nuclear armed terroist, you have an exciting read and one that also touches your spirit!!!
Thousands flock to Central Park in NY to see what appears to be a magnificent spiritual being surrounded by light and lovely colors who comes and goes and has lightening all around him. Some song and worship and others are determined to stop him and arrest him. Jack Molinaro is mayor and his sister has been found brutally raped and in a coma. What no one knows is she is having a spiritual experience with the stranger learning about peace and joy. Throw into the mix the search in the same vicinity for a nuclear armed terroist, you have an exciting read and one that also touches your spirit!!!
September 6, 2021
I'm probably one of the few people that didn't enjoy "The Shack," lol! I picked this up on a whim but found the writing style too similar to "The Shack" for my taste. My experience went further downhill with the book's inclusion of profanity and sexual content, the combo causing it to become a DNF for me.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
June 10, 2018
For centuries now, the hope of the second coming of Christ (or the Second Advent) has filled many churches. For those who are unfamiliar with this concept, the Second Advent, Christians believe, is when Jesus Christ will return to earth. According to the scriptures, before Christ’s second coming, people on earth will face many trials but are urged to have faith in the lord (Jesus Christ) as he will save them. For those who are familiar with the Bible, these stories and beliefs saturate our reasoning, deliberations and translations.
In his debut novel ‘A Stranger in Central Park’, author James Patrick Dillon, attempts to shed light on what the Second Coming of Christ would be like.
New York mayor Jack Molinaro receives a distressing call from the President of the United States of America about an impending war. The Israeli missile took out the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv resulting in the death of the Vice President of United States and others working at the embassy. The President warns the mayor that New York City is under threat of a potential terrorist attack. As if that wasn’t enough, Jack soon gets a call from Dee Weiss- his sister Katie’s boyfriend, claiming that Katie is missing.
The focus of this story soon shifts to Katie’s mysterious disappearance of and an even more mysterious appearance of a `Stranger’ in Central Park, New York City. The stranger who is initially described as a “luminous figure” bears a striking resemblance to Jesus Christ. For example, this “luminous figure” is able to walk on water. In the Gospel of Matthew (Chapter 14: 22-33), Jesus walks on water and so does Peter by having faith in Jesus Christ. The whole scene that author James Dillon describes is similar to the scene described in the Bible.
Dillon, writing in third person, gives a voice to all characters which allows the reader to accurately understand what each character goes through and their particular perceptions on a situation. Although this book has multiple spiritual references, it can most definitely be classified as a thriller. The book gets interesting when they characters debate over the intentions behind the stranger’s actions (Christ vs. Anti-Christ). The book moves slowly in the beginning but it gets interesting as you keep reading it. There are many parts where you are guaranteed to get emotional. All of Dillon’s characters are very real and relatable.
The author’s extensive knowledge of the Bible is very evident when he writes about the “Stranger” and in how this character is similar to Jesus Christ. The author uses colloquial language throughout the book which makes it enjoyable. The plot of the story is intense and captivating. The element of the Second Advent adds to the intensity of the plot and the interpretation of the “Stranger” is left up to the reader. Through his characters, Dillon, agues both sides- the believers and the non-believers. I would recommend this to any reader who likes a good thriller.
In his debut novel ‘A Stranger in Central Park’, author James Patrick Dillon, attempts to shed light on what the Second Coming of Christ would be like.
New York mayor Jack Molinaro receives a distressing call from the President of the United States of America about an impending war. The Israeli missile took out the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv resulting in the death of the Vice President of United States and others working at the embassy. The President warns the mayor that New York City is under threat of a potential terrorist attack. As if that wasn’t enough, Jack soon gets a call from Dee Weiss- his sister Katie’s boyfriend, claiming that Katie is missing.
The focus of this story soon shifts to Katie’s mysterious disappearance of and an even more mysterious appearance of a `Stranger’ in Central Park, New York City. The stranger who is initially described as a “luminous figure” bears a striking resemblance to Jesus Christ. For example, this “luminous figure” is able to walk on water. In the Gospel of Matthew (Chapter 14: 22-33), Jesus walks on water and so does Peter by having faith in Jesus Christ. The whole scene that author James Dillon describes is similar to the scene described in the Bible.
Dillon, writing in third person, gives a voice to all characters which allows the reader to accurately understand what each character goes through and their particular perceptions on a situation. Although this book has multiple spiritual references, it can most definitely be classified as a thriller. The book gets interesting when they characters debate over the intentions behind the stranger’s actions (Christ vs. Anti-Christ). The book moves slowly in the beginning but it gets interesting as you keep reading it. There are many parts where you are guaranteed to get emotional. All of Dillon’s characters are very real and relatable.
The author’s extensive knowledge of the Bible is very evident when he writes about the “Stranger” and in how this character is similar to Jesus Christ. The author uses colloquial language throughout the book which makes it enjoyable. The plot of the story is intense and captivating. The element of the Second Advent adds to the intensity of the plot and the interpretation of the “Stranger” is left up to the reader. Through his characters, Dillon, agues both sides- the believers and the non-believers. I would recommend this to any reader who likes a good thriller.
July 10, 2018
This is an unusual story. The author, James Patrick Dillion is a theologian. This explains how much of the story is written.
The Vice-President of the US is killed in Tel-Aviv when the Iranians send over a counter-strike against the Israeli’s for knocking out their nuclear power plants. He is sent to attempt to bring peace to the region. Syria, Russia, China and rest of the Middle Eastern countries are gearing up to take out Israel and their allies, mainly the US. While rockets are flying and men and women are dying in the Middle East, a strange power source or UFO is located over Central Park. The Mayor, Jack Molinaro and Lt. Governor, Denny Brandt look at the event as something to be sensationalized and advance their own political desires. These men have been arch-rivals for decades. The stakes are going to be raised as each one jockeys to become the next V.P.
Throw in Jack’s sister, Katie and her assault during a run in Central Park and his aide, Beka Rodriquez, who has agreed to work for Denny to set Jack up with a sex scandal and you have the makings of a good religious thriller. Sadly this isn’t the case.
The first one fifth of the story was very slow. Almost put it down, but as the characters were fleshed out the and the action picked up, I flew through it to the midway point and then BAM, it almost came to a screeching halt. When the “Stranger” shows himself and heals the blindman, Jerimiah, he gives him the new covenant, M-39. Remember when Katie was attacked? Jesus is explaining why he has returned and what the new teaching is going to be. Like most theologians, it takes forever to get to the point and this also happens at the end of the story. It becomes too preachy. I’m not convinced M39 is the answer to all the worlds woes. So, what is M39? Can’t tell you that.
I like a good, well thought out religious story that ties up all the ends and provides a bit of closure; this one does not. The world is on the precipice of a Third World War and then the “Stranger-Jesus” leaves. Does the world survive? Is M39 instituted or do we annihilate ourselves with no chance of salvation? Only one way to find out; read the story.
This isn’t a bad read, with the exceptions I mentioned, it just has too many gaps at the end.
Three stars
The Vice-President of the US is killed in Tel-Aviv when the Iranians send over a counter-strike against the Israeli’s for knocking out their nuclear power plants. He is sent to attempt to bring peace to the region. Syria, Russia, China and rest of the Middle Eastern countries are gearing up to take out Israel and their allies, mainly the US. While rockets are flying and men and women are dying in the Middle East, a strange power source or UFO is located over Central Park. The Mayor, Jack Molinaro and Lt. Governor, Denny Brandt look at the event as something to be sensationalized and advance their own political desires. These men have been arch-rivals for decades. The stakes are going to be raised as each one jockeys to become the next V.P.
Throw in Jack’s sister, Katie and her assault during a run in Central Park and his aide, Beka Rodriquez, who has agreed to work for Denny to set Jack up with a sex scandal and you have the makings of a good religious thriller. Sadly this isn’t the case.
The first one fifth of the story was very slow. Almost put it down, but as the characters were fleshed out the and the action picked up, I flew through it to the midway point and then BAM, it almost came to a screeching halt. When the “Stranger” shows himself and heals the blindman, Jerimiah, he gives him the new covenant, M-39. Remember when Katie was attacked? Jesus is explaining why he has returned and what the new teaching is going to be. Like most theologians, it takes forever to get to the point and this also happens at the end of the story. It becomes too preachy. I’m not convinced M39 is the answer to all the worlds woes. So, what is M39? Can’t tell you that.
I like a good, well thought out religious story that ties up all the ends and provides a bit of closure; this one does not. The world is on the precipice of a Third World War and then the “Stranger-Jesus” leaves. Does the world survive? Is M39 instituted or do we annihilate ourselves with no chance of salvation? Only one way to find out; read the story.
This isn’t a bad read, with the exceptions I mentioned, it just has too many gaps at the end.
Three stars
June 15, 2018
I so wanted this to be a book to help me in my spiritual beliefs. However, that was not to be. I will say that I enjoyed most of the story. A modern day Jesus arrives in Central Park in New York as a young woman is being raped. She has a room mate who loves her but Katie is not into girls though she is in approval of the lifestyle. Her brother, mayor of New York, once thought of as a potential presidential candidate before his affair is in a 'winner takes all' political fight with a rival that could remove him from politics forever. All of this in the first couple of chapters.
Then, Jesus appears. The story only calls him 'The Stranger' but it is clear by his words who the author is hinting it is. That is when I thought the story went south. It was clear that the author was trying to push his version of Christianity. While he has every right to do that, I was saddened when what could have been a great story turned in to a theological teaching.
Before you go negative and say that I disagree with the teaching and say that the book was bad for that reason, I would have said the same thing if it had agreed with my beliefs. Any time you use your platform to try to indoctrinate, I do not care for it. When the book is in the story it is great, but whole chapters where a theology of everyone is saved and I was wanting the book to end and soon.
Who should read? I would only recommend this if you can work around the preaching. As I said before, the story is very gripping as the stranger is urging people to put down the guns even though a World War seems to be approaching. Who is healed and who is not by the stranger leads to interesting questions. The idea of an 'eye for an eye' is even talked about in an interesting way. If you cannot get passed the teachings, then I would not suggest it for you.
I received an ARC from the publisher and Netgalley. This is an honest review.
Then, Jesus appears. The story only calls him 'The Stranger' but it is clear by his words who the author is hinting it is. That is when I thought the story went south. It was clear that the author was trying to push his version of Christianity. While he has every right to do that, I was saddened when what could have been a great story turned in to a theological teaching.
Before you go negative and say that I disagree with the teaching and say that the book was bad for that reason, I would have said the same thing if it had agreed with my beliefs. Any time you use your platform to try to indoctrinate, I do not care for it. When the book is in the story it is great, but whole chapters where a theology of everyone is saved and I was wanting the book to end and soon.
Who should read? I would only recommend this if you can work around the preaching. As I said before, the story is very gripping as the stranger is urging people to put down the guns even though a World War seems to be approaching. Who is healed and who is not by the stranger leads to interesting questions. The idea of an 'eye for an eye' is even talked about in an interesting way. If you cannot get passed the teachings, then I would not suggest it for you.
I received an ARC from the publisher and Netgalley. This is an honest review.
April 8, 2018
The Stranger in Central Park - Written by James Patrick Dillon
An inspiring story of love, hope, and faith for today’s needs!
An inspiring story of love, hope, and faith set during an age that’s deeply disturbing and hauntingly familiar, The STRANGER in Central Park will delight fans of both fast-paced genre fiction and character-driven literature. It’s been hailed “A blockbuster novel for our time.” As the title suggests, this deeply moving thriller unfolds largely in New York City’s Central Park. There, the Stranger appears literally out of thin air. He commands nature, heals the sick, raises the lame, makes the blind see, and calls for a new gathering, a new way of living. Tens of thousands descend on Bethesda Terrace in Central Park. They come from all over the world to hear his message, witness his miraculous power in action, and welcome him. Others conspire to silence him, to stop him no matter what the cost.
What did I like? This was a very emotional and awe-inspiring story that captured my attention and kept me glued to the pages. It contains so much that is needed in this day and time and has this message that should be read by all. We don’t have to be deeply religious to believe that we need help. Every day I read more police officers and soldiers being killed. The massive school shooting and the abuse of women and children all tell us that we need this message.
What will you like? A moving and inspirational storyline that was well researched and told in a way that everyone can believe what needs to be heard. Characters that are believable and just like people in your own town. Only time will tell if enough read and receive the intended message that the world needs to hear. Highly recommend this book to ALL readers of all genres. I received this from the publisher for an honest review with no other compensation.
An inspiring story of love, hope, and faith for today’s needs!
An inspiring story of love, hope, and faith set during an age that’s deeply disturbing and hauntingly familiar, The STRANGER in Central Park will delight fans of both fast-paced genre fiction and character-driven literature. It’s been hailed “A blockbuster novel for our time.” As the title suggests, this deeply moving thriller unfolds largely in New York City’s Central Park. There, the Stranger appears literally out of thin air. He commands nature, heals the sick, raises the lame, makes the blind see, and calls for a new gathering, a new way of living. Tens of thousands descend on Bethesda Terrace in Central Park. They come from all over the world to hear his message, witness his miraculous power in action, and welcome him. Others conspire to silence him, to stop him no matter what the cost.
What did I like? This was a very emotional and awe-inspiring story that captured my attention and kept me glued to the pages. It contains so much that is needed in this day and time and has this message that should be read by all. We don’t have to be deeply religious to believe that we need help. Every day I read more police officers and soldiers being killed. The massive school shooting and the abuse of women and children all tell us that we need this message.
What will you like? A moving and inspirational storyline that was well researched and told in a way that everyone can believe what needs to be heard. Characters that are believable and just like people in your own town. Only time will tell if enough read and receive the intended message that the world needs to hear. Highly recommend this book to ALL readers of all genres. I received this from the publisher for an honest review with no other compensation.
April 16, 2018
.This book began with a remarkable description of the human death experience. I was amazed at the skillful and intuitive way the author presented it. But the author did not maintain the same energy throughout the rest of the book. The book is well written and there is no doubt that the author is talented. But i expect that most readers will not rate the book as highly as I did.
The author's presentation of encounters between our secular world and Spiritual Realities seemed a bit superficial to me. The character of The Stranger was underdeveloped. Having said that, if the reader is willing to accept the assumptions of the story it is likely that the reward will be an enjoyable reading experience.
I read this story during the week leading up to Easter. It was a pleasant companion during that time. The flashes of brilliant writing I encountered in parts of the book left me looking forward to coming across additional books written by this author.
The author's presentation of encounters between our secular world and Spiritual Realities seemed a bit superficial to me. The character of The Stranger was underdeveloped. Having said that, if the reader is willing to accept the assumptions of the story it is likely that the reward will be an enjoyable reading experience.
I read this story during the week leading up to Easter. It was a pleasant companion during that time. The flashes of brilliant writing I encountered in parts of the book left me looking forward to coming across additional books written by this author.
July 22, 2018
Philosophical thinking
The story seems to start off a little slow, but it ended up being the right pace for the story. It was interesting, and seemed to be wrapped around politics and faith, not something that goes together. Jack and Kate are interesting characters, both clashing and yet dynamic with each other. It's a very intriguing and interesting premise for a story, and it does make the reader think. "The eyes of the broken and bloody body beneath the weeping willow flashed open. Somehow, they were her eyes again. She inhabited the form of the pale, frail, millennial on the dewy lawn again— shattered and battered and bruised, yes, but alive and earthbound and heavy." The Stranger is a story that keeps you turning the pages.
The story seems to start off a little slow, but it ended up being the right pace for the story. It was interesting, and seemed to be wrapped around politics and faith, not something that goes together. Jack and Kate are interesting characters, both clashing and yet dynamic with each other. It's a very intriguing and interesting premise for a story, and it does make the reader think. "The eyes of the broken and bloody body beneath the weeping willow flashed open. Somehow, they were her eyes again. She inhabited the form of the pale, frail, millennial on the dewy lawn again— shattered and battered and bruised, yes, but alive and earthbound and heavy." The Stranger is a story that keeps you turning the pages.
March 16, 2018
I have told the Marketing Director for Enlightened Little Souls, Adam C., MULTIPLE TIMES that I do not want to review this book and that he has contacted me on my personal e-mail address. I have told him to unsubscribe me from the mailing lists he has put me on WITHOUT MY PERMISSION. I have also manually unsubscribed via the link at the bottom of his e-mails. His continued e-mails are filling my inbox with SPAM and I want them to STOP!
If he wants a review of this book, then here it is: IT'S TERRIBLE AND NOBODY SHOULD EVER BUY IT!
If he wants a review of this book, then here it is: IT'S TERRIBLE AND NOBODY SHOULD EVER BUY IT!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews