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Called to Battle: A Supernatural Thriller of Heart-Pounding Mystery & Suspense

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When Jim Conwell answered the call to pastor a small community church, he never dreamed it would toss him into the fight of his life. The unsuspecting town of Whittenville, nestled in the scenic mountains of New England, once had everything going for it. But now, the winds have changed; sin has become rampant and drug dealers rule. Dark powers lurking in the shadows threaten to destroy anyone standing in the way of their plans. The evil hits its mark when the police discover Jim with a smoking gun in his hand and the body of a church member on the floor. Jim soon finds himself at the epicenter of a courtroom drama that is fought not only in the natural, but also in the spiritual realm. The opposition is ruthless, but with Jim’s guidance and godly wisdom, a small team of ordinary people come together with only their faith and willingness to fight the good fight. Victory seems impossible, but with God’s power made accessible to them, they just might be able to reclaim the battlefield. But will it be enough to win the war? This gripping murder mystery , inspired by real events in the author’s life, offer keen insight into spiritual warfare, the reality of evil, and the power of prayer. If you enjoy a great legal thriller or suspense novel from Christian fiction authors like Ted Dekker, Frank Peretti and Joel Rosenburg, don’t miss this heart-pounding novel from J. Henry Watson. If anyone understands spiritual warfare, it’s Pastor J. Henry Watson. In this compelling supernatural thriller , he weaves together his real life experiences and keen spiritual insights into a non-stop legal battle centered around a small New England congregation. From the opening pages, the reader is swept up into the mystery and suspense as a team of dedicated Christians work together to solve a puzzling case of attempted murder. Buckle up for a “can’t put it down” roller-coaster ride featuring plot twists, surprising suspects and unlikely heroes. With each turn of the page, you’ll not only be entertained but inspired by the power of prayer and the value of friendship. I’ve been privileged to know J. Henry and his wife Kristin for several years. I have witnessed their faith under fire, and their tremendous courage in the face of tragedy. When J. Henry writes about the challenges of the pastorate, local politics and the legal system, he draws from a deep well of both pain and purpose. Anyone who enjoys reading Christian fiction books will love this “courtroom drama meets supernatural thriller.” I highly recommend to you both the message and the messenger. Donna Partow
Author of more than 30 bestselling Christian books including Becoming the Woman God Wants Me To Be

226 pages, Paperback

Published August 30, 2021

150 people are currently reading
112 people want to read

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J. Henry Watson

4 books2 followers

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5 stars
258 (68%)
4 stars
83 (22%)
3 stars
25 (6%)
2 stars
4 (1%)
1 star
4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for HAL.
425 reviews3 followers
October 24, 2025
I'm hooked!

This clean story has drama, action and high interest. It pulls the reader easily into the narrative and I found myself needing to know the outcome. It is a stand alone but easily leads into more. A story about a pastor isn't thought to be exciting but reading how the lives in the story are much like ancient Job and his wife ( and our own) it is easy to understand how God and the fallen shape our character and resolve. Thank God for the Martha's in our lives.
I will note the POV changes and it was tricky catching who was telling their story at times. Also, those interested in forensic evidence will have guessed a couple holes in the criminals execution, but very nice flow, plot and ending. I highly recommend this especially for those interested in Christian fiction. Read. Enjoy!
19 reviews
October 8, 2021
Powerful story with real characters

As a retired pastor of 38 years in 2 small churches I have seen most of these characters and experienced their influence. The author has skillfully woven the characters and plot into a believable and enjoyable spiritual thriller that demonstrates the power of praise, prayer and faithfulness to God and the Bible.
I want to know what similar readers think!
Profile Image for Marissa Mitchell.
11 reviews
January 25, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyable read!

Loved this book and I highly recommend it. I enjoyed the pace, it moves quickly and never had a dull moment. I enjoyed the various
Characters. I appreciated how each chapter began with an applicable scripture verse. Most of all, I enjoyed how this story pumped up my faith and helped my testimony to grow. This author was truly inspired by God to write a story that is both entertaining , clever and inspiring. Well done!
10 reviews
October 6, 2021
Blessed

I love reading books that tell a story, but also teach us how to live a Christian life. I am reminded I wasn't praying enough. Being reminded that we are always fighting evil, and it is our jobs as Christians to stay in touch with "Daddy". Thanks for the book. May you continue to be blessed to write more.
Profile Image for Stacie.
14 reviews1 follower
October 26, 2021
I LOVE this book!

I absolutely love how Martha refers to our Abba Father as Daddy! I’m the only person I know or have heard of using that reference.
Thank you, and I love the strong faith shown in this story.
I know this book has to be labeled supernatural fiction, but for someone who has found absolute strength only her Daddy God could provide, it is glorious TRUTH!
Profile Image for Nancy.
396 reviews
February 17, 2022
Good story

This was a good story, but I expecting something a bit more spiritually stirring. Most of the chapters were first person dialogue, but it wasn't always clear who's view we were getting. It moved from character to character. I might read more from this author in the future, we'll see what presents itself.
Profile Image for Donna.
157 reviews
September 25, 2022
A great spiritual warfare fiction book

I enjoyed this book. It's about the spiritual warfare that can take place when trials come.

There is one confusing thing in the book for me. The author uses first person, I, when the pastor speaks, but he also uses first person when evil speaks.
27 reviews
June 17, 2024
I read this book again at the recommendation of a friend. I read it much earlier and gave it only one star; however, when I have reread it, I've upped the stars. I always like books when the Christians are portrayed as sincere, and God is the hero. This book reads like a Hallmark movie, so it's a feel good read.
219 reviews3 followers
September 23, 2021
Rose

Thank you J. Henry Watson for sharing such a wonderful story. It was hard to put this book down for even a moment but I had to a number of times because it was so emotional for me. God is wonderful forever!

Profile Image for Marian Cox.
173 reviews
June 17, 2022
Fabulous writing

I really enjoyed this book! I was on the edge of my seat with all the twist and turns. I feel in love with several characters. I do pray there will be more books to follow!!
1 review
October 5, 2022
Renewed Faith

I liked this book from beginning to end. It opened my heart, eyes and ears as to the things God can do. I recommend this to those who’ve had doubts or trouble trusting God. Great book!!
3 reviews
September 30, 2023
a realistic spiritual battle walked out in the flesh

This book is a joy and great reminder that our battle is fought and won in the spirit! I’m looking forward to the next book by J Henry Watson.
81 reviews1 follower
January 31, 2025
Called to Battle: A Supernatural Thriller of Heart-

I encourage how the author weave the struggle and the battle of spiritual warfare are win through corporate prayer and unity in the body of believer in Jesus Christ.
355 reviews4 followers
October 25, 2025
Reality

Our war isn't with flesh ands blood. That's a truth that we need to keep in mind at all times.
This book is a great reminder of that and of the power of prayer and the Name of Jesus.
This is written well and holds your attention.
Profile Image for S.D.Morgan.
4 reviews1 follower
October 27, 2025
A powerful life changing read

This book will capture you and keep you entranced. It will change your life by allowing you to relate parts to reality. The power of prayer and our responsibility and duty as Christians to fervently pray for the body of Christ.
Profile Image for Dianne Kushniryk.
10 reviews
November 16, 2025
Christian Thriller

Deeply spiritual.
Easy reading
A little deus ex machina, although I wouldn't put it past God to work in this way.
Not really heart-pounding but very enjoyable and well written.
1 review
September 24, 2021
Christian action

A wonderful book encouraging Christians to come together and demonstrate their faith in action. Love the reference to the power of prayer warriors.
9 reviews
October 2, 2021
Quick, engaging read

Engages you from page one until the end. Well written and easy, flowing read. Has great Christian story line. Good wins over evil.
7 reviews
October 15, 2021
Review by readee

This book is captivating. Spiritual warfare 101. I especially liked the author showing us God protects his own. The play on words in the name "Damon" very good.
796 reviews5 followers
November 29, 2021
Good story

It’s good v evil. A pastor , wrongly charged, and a bevy of prayer warriors take to their knees to do battle.
20 reviews
January 4, 2022
I couldn't finish this book, it's just too boring and predictable! Read about 20% through and then there was nothing to keep me reading. I just deleted it. Maybe just not my type of book.
Profile Image for Cindy Cheeks.
36 reviews
February 14, 2022
This book had me from the first sentence. It was challenging on a personal level and ran true to the bible.
343 reviews1 follower
March 6, 2022
Excellent Read

As a pastor of 50 years, it was easy to identify and resonate with these Christian soldiers and their very real battle. Well-written!
19 reviews
May 13, 2022
Moving!

This book is about the spiritual battle all around us! The key is a powerful prayer team. God is moving among His people, and He is in control!
43 reviews1 follower
May 24, 2022
A Plus

A great reminder of spiritual warfare that we Christians poo poo far to often.easy read and very good.won't be disappointed if you will read it.
10 reviews
June 2, 2022
A great read. Moved right along.....an interest use of POV...ready for Book 2.
Only issue was distinguishing between thoughts and dialogue. But it didn't take away from the flow. WELL DONE
3 reviews
November 28, 2022
Great Book

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I especially liked being taught about spiritual warfare. Very well written book. Thank you Pastor.
2 reviews
December 10, 2022
Great read

Though the battle rages we will not be defeated! Put on the full armor of GOD and be strong in the power of His might!
4 reviews1 follower
January 16, 2023
Exciting Page Turner

I read through the whole book one afternoon. Loved the message of the book. As Christians we are fighting a spiritual war. God is greater than the enemy
1 review
January 17, 2023
Review

God is to be worshipped and adored. It is disrespectful to call the Lord "daddy". That part of the book was hard to take seriously
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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