What do you think?
Rate this book
Miracles: The Listener/The Gifted
Book by Blackstock, Terri
357 pages, Hardcover
First published March 11, 2008
216 people are currently reading
518 people want to read
About the author
Terri Blackstock
90 books5,551 followersTerri Blackstock is a New York Times best-seller, with over seven million books sold worldwide.. She has had over thirty years of success as a novelist.
Terri spent the first twelve years of her life traveling in a U.S. Air Force family. She lived in nine states and attended the first four years of school in The Netherlands. Because she was a perpetual “new kid,” her imagination became her closest friend. That, she believes, was the biggest factor in her becoming a novelist. She sold her first novel at the age of twenty-five, and has had a successful career ever since.
In 1994 Terri was writing romance novels under two pseudonyms for publishers such as HarperCollins, Harlequin, Dell and Silhouette, when a spiritual awakening prompted her to switch gears. At the time, she was reading more suspense than romance, and felt drawn to write thrillers about ordinary people in grave danger. Her newly awakened faith wove its way into the tapestry of her suspense novels, offering hope instead of despair. Her goal is to entertain with page-turning plots, while challenging her readers to think and grow. She hopes to remind them that they’re valued by God and that their trials have a purpose.
Terri spent the first twelve years of her life traveling in a U.S. Air Force family. She lived in nine states and attended the first four years of school in The Netherlands. Because she was a perpetual “new kid,” her imagination became her closest friend. That, she believes, was the biggest factor in her becoming a novelist. She sold her first novel at the age of twenty-five, and has had a successful career ever since.
In 1994 Terri was writing romance novels under two pseudonyms for publishers such as HarperCollins, Harlequin, Dell and Silhouette, when a spiritual awakening prompted her to switch gears. At the time, she was reading more suspense than romance, and felt drawn to write thrillers about ordinary people in grave danger. Her newly awakened faith wove its way into the tapestry of her suspense novels, offering hope instead of despair. Her goal is to entertain with page-turning plots, while challenging her readers to think and grow. She hopes to remind them that they’re valued by God and that their trials have a purpose.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
July 23, 2011
"The Listener" is one of those short and sweet stories that makes you think a little and makes you feel a lot. The protagonist of this story wakes up one morning to find himself with a unique gift from God -- the ability to hear a person's soul. While our hero uses his gift to help transform the lives of those around him, in the end he too goes through a metamorphosis -- evolving from a detached, "lukewarm" Christian to one who is both passionate and compassionate. For the most part, this is a very enjoyable story. The author's writing style is simple and entertaining, the concept of the story is very creative and original, and the lessons from the story may well be universal. The only things I didn't care for in this story was the tendency to feel "preachy," referring to "unsaved" individuals as "the harvest," and the main characters' constant crying. There could have been plenty of other ways to convey emotion to the reader! Otherwise, this is a very lovely book.
"The Gifted" is quite a bit like its predecessor, "The Listener," in which the main characters find themselves with unique supernatural gifts from God, and then use their gifts to help the people around them (whether those people are complete strangers or people they already know). However, the key difference between the two stories is that in "The Gifted," the three protagonists are more or less forced to work together to help those in need, as their gifts are basically useless on their own. The author draws on the lesson from Romans 12, specifically that members of the church are all members of one body, even though we all may have different functions within the body. While we may do okay using our spiritual gifts on our own, we are more successful if we work together with others who have different gifts that may complement ours -- and of course we cannot do anything without the help of God. For the most part, I found the story enjoyable. My only complaints are that it came across as preachy sometimes, and that the characters did a LOT of crying -- surely there must be some other way to convey emotion to the reader! Otherwise, this is a very nice little book.
"The Gifted" is quite a bit like its predecessor, "The Listener," in which the main characters find themselves with unique supernatural gifts from God, and then use their gifts to help the people around them (whether those people are complete strangers or people they already know). However, the key difference between the two stories is that in "The Gifted," the three protagonists are more or less forced to work together to help those in need, as their gifts are basically useless on their own. The author draws on the lesson from Romans 12, specifically that members of the church are all members of one body, even though we all may have different functions within the body. While we may do okay using our spiritual gifts on our own, we are more successful if we work together with others who have different gifts that may complement ours -- and of course we cannot do anything without the help of God. For the most part, I found the story enjoyable. My only complaints are that it came across as preachy sometimes, and that the characters did a LOT of crying -- surely there must be some other way to convey emotion to the reader! Otherwise, this is a very nice little book.
August 17, 2024
A good book but a little preachy. Enjoyed it though.
August 11, 2018
I was pretty stoked, given the synopsis, but I feel the execution was (in my opinion) just so cringe-worthy & over the top preachy. I feel incredibly upset when someone uses a gift (like Sam had in being able to hear people's needs/thought) and uses it only, strictly--to evangelize & then guide the person not so gently into a come-to-Jesus prayer.
That is so distasteful to me--that someone isn't a human being, but rather, they're only their ETERNAL SOUL, and a total ministry project. Forget the human-to-human connection. It's their eternal soul you're after! Grab it while it's hot--you have thirty seconds left!
I don't like that way of doing things. Not one little bit. Cause it feels like you're using someone. And that does NOT sit well with me.
I believe in Jesus, and if I (as a believer) encountered someone who was as tacky and preachy and socially inept as Sam and his paster buddy John, there would be words had. Let me tell you.
I feel bad for people who encounter people like Sam & John, and think that's what every Christian is like. Don't get me wrong--Sam & John had hearts of gold, but they weren't using a single social cue and adapting to it, or being natural at all. Everything was so heavy and scripted with a religious angle--would they even talk to the person, just to encourage them, if they couldn't lead them eventually to a salvation prayer? I would've liked to have seen just some regular, human-to-human encouragement.
I had such high hopes for this book, and while I really was getting into the concept of what Sam was experiencing, being able to hear people's thoughts/needs around him, I felt the execution was so incredibly cringy I didn't even finish the book I was so miffed at the characters.
That is so distasteful to me--that someone isn't a human being, but rather, they're only their ETERNAL SOUL, and a total ministry project. Forget the human-to-human connection. It's their eternal soul you're after! Grab it while it's hot--you have thirty seconds left!
I don't like that way of doing things. Not one little bit. Cause it feels like you're using someone. And that does NOT sit well with me.
I believe in Jesus, and if I (as a believer) encountered someone who was as tacky and preachy and socially inept as Sam and his paster buddy John, there would be words had. Let me tell you.
I feel bad for people who encounter people like Sam & John, and think that's what every Christian is like. Don't get me wrong--Sam & John had hearts of gold, but they weren't using a single social cue and adapting to it, or being natural at all. Everything was so heavy and scripted with a religious angle--would they even talk to the person, just to encourage them, if they couldn't lead them eventually to a salvation prayer? I would've liked to have seen just some regular, human-to-human encouragement.
I had such high hopes for this book, and while I really was getting into the concept of what Sam was experiencing, being able to hear people's thoughts/needs around him, I felt the execution was so incredibly cringy I didn't even finish the book I was so miffed at the characters.
May 5, 2012
This is a combination of two novellas: The Listener and The Gifted. These are not Christian-light,
these use scripture throughout. I really enjoyed The Listener and would of given it 5 stars by itself.
The main character, Sam, has a dream and when he wakes up he is able to hear peoples deepest needs for a few days.
What he does with this through the days that follow is fascinating, and watching how people react. This one
makes you think and is done well for a strange topic.
The Gifted to me seemed more cheesy. Ok, with some good points but not great. In this one the 3 characters
are trapped after an earthquake and when they are miraculously healed after being rescued...the one character who
was paralyzed now has the holy spirit leading him to those who need help, character #2 whose voice box was ruined by fire now knows exactly what to say, and the 3rd character who went blind can now see into people and their needs. So, they work as a team and go teach many people about the Lord. I just couldn't get into this one, seemed more like a super hero story.
these use scripture throughout. I really enjoyed The Listener and would of given it 5 stars by itself.
The main character, Sam, has a dream and when he wakes up he is able to hear peoples deepest needs for a few days.
What he does with this through the days that follow is fascinating, and watching how people react. This one
makes you think and is done well for a strange topic.
The Gifted to me seemed more cheesy. Ok, with some good points but not great. In this one the 3 characters
are trapped after an earthquake and when they are miraculously healed after being rescued...the one character who
was paralyzed now has the holy spirit leading him to those who need help, character #2 whose voice box was ruined by fire now knows exactly what to say, and the 3rd character who went blind can now see into people and their needs. So, they work as a team and go teach many people about the Lord. I just couldn't get into this one, seemed more like a super hero story.
March 27, 2024
3.5 stars?
I like the premise of the stories and feel like they’re good examples of how we should live on a daily basis, serving God and acting on where He leads. But it just felt super cheesy overall. Not a bad read but not my favourite.
I like the premise of the stories and feel like they’re good examples of how we should live on a daily basis, serving God and acting on where He leads. But it just felt super cheesy overall. Not a bad read but not my favourite.
June 2, 2024
Miracles by Terri Blackstock includes two complete novels, The Listener and The Gifted.
I applaud Terri Blackstock, the well-known Christian Suspense author, for writing a unique style of book that keeps her commitment to always writing to glorify the Lord.
The Listener made me stop and think about 1 Samuel 16:7, "But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart." (KJV)
People may appear to have everything together when their lives are crumbling apart. Blackstock's creative stylistic style made me think about all the friends, family, and strangers desperately needing Christ.
The Gifted is a beautiful treaty for Christians to step out and witness, help, encourage, and use their time and talents for God—even though they don't believe they have a Spiritual gift.
I applaud Terri Blackstock, the well-known Christian Suspense author, for writing a unique style of book that keeps her commitment to always writing to glorify the Lord.
The Listener made me stop and think about 1 Samuel 16:7, "But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart." (KJV)
People may appear to have everything together when their lives are crumbling apart. Blackstock's creative stylistic style made me think about all the friends, family, and strangers desperately needing Christ.
The Gifted is a beautiful treaty for Christians to step out and witness, help, encourage, and use their time and talents for God—even though they don't believe they have a Spiritual gift.
February 6, 2018
For all who believe in the unseen comes this gift of Miracles--two stand-alone stories now together for the first time. You'll savor these stories from award-winning, best-selling author Terri Blackstock that reveal how thin the wall really is between heaven and earth…and how God remains a God of miracles even today.
The Listener--Something strange happened to Sam Bennett this morning. He is hearing the thoughts of other people. The waitress at the coffee shop. The elevator operator in Sam's office building. His wife, his secretary, even his pastor. Simply by looking at them, Sam can hear their hearts' deepest needs. Is he going crazy…or about to experience a miracle beyond his wildest dreams?
Christmas gift from Jeanne. Christian fiction, for some reason, makes me feel nervous and guilty, but the principals are good.
The Listener--Something strange happened to Sam Bennett this morning. He is hearing the thoughts of other people. The waitress at the coffee shop. The elevator operator in Sam's office building. His wife, his secretary, even his pastor. Simply by looking at them, Sam can hear their hearts' deepest needs. Is he going crazy…or about to experience a miracle beyond his wildest dreams?
Christmas gift from Jeanne. Christian fiction, for some reason, makes me feel nervous and guilty, but the principals are good.
February 28, 2019
A Thank you for a great bible story and study
Really great books. I would recommend pastor interested in doing outreach use these as a study for those interested in learning about what their gifts might be and how to share it with others. Presenting this in sorry form was so clear and have me a better understanding of the gift that God has given me and how I might be able to share. The study group at the end of each book was very insightful and made me explore the subject more in depth in my bible and also have me better understanding of passages I had read in the past.
Really great books. I would recommend pastor interested in doing outreach use these as a study for those interested in learning about what their gifts might be and how to share it with others. Presenting this in sorry form was so clear and have me a better understanding of the gift that God has given me and how I might be able to share. The study group at the end of each book was very insightful and made me explore the subject more in depth in my bible and also have me better understanding of passages I had read in the past.
May 9, 2018
2-in-1 book. I have read these books before separately but it was good to read them again. Read about Sam Bennett as something strange happened to him as he can hear people's hearts' deepest needs. She how it affects his life and what changes it makes to his life. In The Gifted three friends are rescued from the rubble after an earthquake. They are miraculously healed and discover new spiritual gifts they have gotten. How long will the gifts last? Will they use these gifts and what will become of them? Two really uplifting stories!
January 29, 2024
Liked The Listener mote than Gifted. Little cheesy, but really makes you think about what people are going through. People you encounter on a daily basis. Empathy for strangers. You never know what someone is going through. God can guide us in our conversations though if we are seeking his direction throughout our days. He knows. He wants to use us to help people, even in mundane encounters like grocery shopping or walking our dogs. We just have to get out of our own selfish little worlds and let God use us. This book inspired me.
July 15, 2021
These two stories are exceptional in showing how one lives as a servant of the King (Jesus Christ), and how one functions as a member of the community of believers whose goal is to reach others for Christ. To accept Him as your personal savior, and to receive forgiveness for your sins. That allows you to look forward to an eternal, and joyful future in heaven. A future which includes the love of the Father, the Son, and the Spirit.
December 12, 2017
Awesome and awestruck read
This book is a testimony to what it is to be a real Christian. To be used by God. Each of us have a specific calling. This book proves that if we all work together for the glory of God He will do many great things. It challenges our hearts! Our spirit. And gives us a glimpse of what it is to be Jesus in the flesh! Thank you Terri!
This book is a testimony to what it is to be a real Christian. To be used by God. Each of us have a specific calling. This book proves that if we all work together for the glory of God He will do many great things. It challenges our hearts! Our spirit. And gives us a glimpse of what it is to be Jesus in the flesh! Thank you Terri!
September 9, 2019
Amazing
Now I have to read the Covenant Child. I was kind of in shock when I read this book. Terri had amazing crime books and also One of my favorite shows based on Rizzoli and Isles. A must read book for all who believe in Jesus and his miraculous healing. And what our purpose in this life is. Bring people to Him. Make disciples of Christ. Love love loved this book!!!!
Now I have to read the Covenant Child. I was kind of in shock when I read this book. Terri had amazing crime books and also One of my favorite shows based on Rizzoli and Isles. A must read book for all who believe in Jesus and his miraculous healing. And what our purpose in this life is. Bring people to Him. Make disciples of Christ. Love love loved this book!!!!
September 23, 2024
Well-written novel that challenges the reader to examine the spiritual gifts they possess. The novel includes two novellas with very similar plot lines and motivational messages. This is definitely a Christian novel written by a believer for believers. If the church could function like the book suggests, this world would be greatly impacted by the gospel of Jesus.
November 20, 2024
What a beautiful story each of these books were! This hit close to home because I have trouble talking to others about Jesus and I shouldn’t but I’m finding out I am like so many others, fear of not knowing enough, fear of judgement, fear of confrontation… etc. These two stories have helped me realize I’m not alone!
December 8, 2017
Wonderful
What a great book! I'm a long time can of Derek's but hadn't read these. Boy are they worth it! They will make you want to get out of your pew and do something with all Christ has given you.
What a great book! I'm a long time can of Derek's but hadn't read these. Boy are they worth it! They will make you want to get out of your pew and do something with all Christ has given you.
January 26, 2018
What a Blessing...
We have a Lord who loves us so much!!! With each breath we take we should be so thankful that we want to tell everyone we meet about what an Awesome God we have!!! This book is a reminder of how precious life and just how many people need to know Jesus!!!
Cindy
We have a Lord who loves us so much!!! With each breath we take we should be so thankful that we want to tell everyone we meet about what an Awesome God we have!!! This book is a reminder of how precious life and just how many people need to know Jesus!!!
Cindy
September 1, 2018
I love these two books!!!
The message provided by each of these books is truly mind changing. Ms. Blackstone tells how WE can be used by God to show love in order to bring more souls into His kingdom.
The message provided by each of these books is truly mind changing. Ms. Blackstone tells how WE can be used by God to show love in order to bring more souls into His kingdom.
February 4, 2019
\two great stories of how God used 4 people for a season. First was Sam who could hear peoples inner thoughts & how he used them to witness. The second story is about 3 friends who were healed and their healing allowed them to witness to others in need.
May 14, 2019
Great books to read in this duet. Very uplifting and encouraging for those everyone especially those who are struggling. Would make a great book to gift to anyone who needs to know that God is there for them no matter what their situation.
March 1, 2020
Two complete books in one, I found these overly dramatic and excessively preachy. It felt like the plot was there just to drive her message. The theme of the books is “people need the Lord,” which is true, but reading them left me feel condemned rather than encouraged.
July 10, 2024
I was very disappointed in the second story because it was just like the first, The only difference was the characters and how they received and lost their gifts. The second story was redundant and not needed.
June 7, 2017
Wonderful, wonderful book. Still fast paced like the authors suspense novels - but this is suspense of the amazing things God orchestrates
August 15, 2018
Great motivator
One of the kind of books that wants you to committ yourself to serving the Lord as he wants us to.
One of the kind of books that wants you to committ yourself to serving the Lord as he wants us to.
August 27, 2018
This is a little different than Blackstock's other books. It's also interesting that both novellas have similar plot lines, yet different
July 20, 2019
Poor writing
The subject matter could have been interesting but the writing was so poor that I felt like I was wasting my time. I didn't finish either story.
The subject matter could have been interesting but the writing was so poor that I felt like I was wasting my time. I didn't finish either story.
February 29, 2020
Two books under one title
Miracles was a good, heartwarming read. The two books had a similar theme of being vessels for God and sharing Him with other people.
Miracles was a good, heartwarming read. The two books had a similar theme of being vessels for God and sharing Him with other people.
April 16, 2020
I usually really like Terri's books but this one I did not care for.
January 25, 2021
Awesome motivating book
This was more than a story. It was a wake up call to use what God has given each of His believers to go and meet the needs of a hurting world.
This was more than a story. It was a wake up call to use what God has given each of His believers to go and meet the needs of a hurting world.
February 12, 2022
Two good reminders and examples of our role in spreading the good news!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews