Sunday, October 11, 2009

WINNER BEST RELIGIOUS FICTION at THE NATIONAL INDIE EXCELLENCE AWARDS!

Jacob Israel wins THE EXAMINER MEDIA AND CULTURE AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING FICTION.
- Al Carozza from the Examiner, states, "THE CALLING is a rare fictional masterpiece of the Christian genre in a marketplace flooded with secular fodder."

Continue reading on Examiner.com:
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BACK COVER REVIEW: Gretchen Geyer
My take on THE CALLING: A Voice In The Dead Woods by Jacob Israel

If you only read one book this year, let this one be it! ... It wasn't long before I pulled out a pen and highlighter and did something rare for me - I love books and hate to mark them up - I marked dialogue and narrative that strummed a chord within me and resonated within my heart. A story written as present and in the near future - a world that I could picture forming around us even as these words are spread throughout the world.

Enter the world of Thomas James where reality and dreams mesh, intertwine and dance in a subtle rhythm. A world on the horizon, written with prophetic voice and vivid imagery. Meet a boy with unlikely beginnings and a Calling that overwhelms him. As events unfold, he is faced with a life of painful circumstances and mystery - but one day the truth overtakes him so that he can be a voice of freedom and of healing to those around him.

"It's just part of another chapter that has to be read so all will know to stand tall in the face of adversity." "...His life is beyond his control. He cannot choose the things that happen to him. He can only choose how he reacts....He is standing where others refuse to stand. He stands in faith. He will not fear what might happen if he does the very thing that can save them all."

Meet Jacob Israel, an up and coming rival of Ted Dekker and Frank Peretti (my two top favorite authors of suspense and adrenaline-reading) - not to mention, a book that I agree could be placed in a genre with The Shack. Jacob clearly knows the face of suffering...and finding the face of truth. And now it's Thomas James' turn...come and take the journey with him and experience The Calling...Your Calling.
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The Calling By Jacob Israel
Review by: Christine Shoup
Book Reviewer.

.... "The Calling, by Jacob Israel, is a thought-provoking novel that will have theologians, philosophers, literary academics and book clubs scrambling for copies and arranging for lectures by the author. The story is fantastically complex if you are willing to see beyond the written word. It ultimately delivers a simple message of strength, faith, love and humanity. Protagonist Thomas James is a young man, seemingly, just like any other. He suffers from nightmares, has trouble fitting in at school and has a beloved hooded sweatshirt. He learns early on that the world is a fickle place. Throughout it all, Thomas has a keen sense of who he is - even in the face of adversity. He intelligently questions his peers, life, faith, teachers, priest and future. The truth in his answer was something he never expected.
....The Calling truly moved me. It touched my sense of humanity and stoked my empathy. I found a piece of myself on those pages that I lost a decade ago which was unexpected but welcome. Jacob Israel is not just a great writer but also a great storyteller. There is a distinction to be made and this book illustrates it perfectly. One moment really stood out for me: - "Humanity must wake from this nightmare if there is ever to be hope for the future." I found it to be a prophetically true and timely sentiment given today's chaotic global environment. Whether you are religious, experiencing a crisis of faith, an atheist or simply open to testing your own humanity, this book will ultimately strike a deeply personal chord with you. The truth will change you too."
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KINGDOM RESOURCES BOOK REVIEW: Gary Sigler
Sigler.org

The Calling is one of the best books I have read. Jacob Israel has written a masterful story that rings with truth and awakens the truth within us that we are more than flesh. "A Masterpiece!"
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Review by RON ASH
Author of "The Apostles Guide To Happiness"

"I found it to be more compelling than "The Shack". The calling is a must read for anyone seeking truth in a complex world. Read it over the weekend because you will not be able to put it down. In a word; multidimensional literature at its best!"
http://apostleron.wordpress.com/
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SFrevu - Intelligent reviews for Intelligent Readers
Review by Dr. Randy Radic

.... I have to confess that I read The Calling as a horror story, with just a sprinkle of saintliness here and there, which really gave me the chills. Which speaks volumes for Jacob Israel’s writing skills. He doesn’t let his story spiral out of control and descend into the sucking morass of Gothic overkill, ala Lovecraft. Instead, he deftly molds the elements of the story, building tension, ala Bram Stoker.
....Jacob Israel has spun this filament of pure, white light through the darkness. And it really grips the reader. After I finished the book, I was informed that there’s a lot of allegory in The Calling. And when I thought about it (after being enlightened), I realized that The Calling could be read that way. My only excuse for not seeing it is that I was too engrossed in reading a darned good horror story.
.... If you choose to read it allegorically, that’s fine. Or if, like me, you read it as ‘just’ a horror story, that’s fine too. But either way, I doubt – like doubting Thomas in the Bible – you’ll be able to put it down. It’s a real, old-fashioned page-turner. And in today’s world, that’s hard to come by.
.... So to paraphrase the little boy in the television commercial, “Buy it. You’ll like it.”
http://www.sfrevu.com/php/Review-id.php?id=9036
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THE PATHFINDER: Elwin R. Roach

The Calling - A Voice In The Dead Woods is one of the best books I can remember reading. It ranks up there with The Shack. My wife, Margit said that she liked it more. Once I was able to settle down long enough to really get into the book, I was riveted to it, and went back every chance I had after other things pulled me away from it.
http://Godfire.net
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CORNHUSKER ACADEMY: Janna Ryan
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

This book, "The Calling" really drew me by its description and I was exited to have the chance to read it. I dove right in and was caught right away by the complexity of it all... The ins and outs of how people connect in this book are amazing, don't assume that any character in this book is there for just a moment, they all have a reason for being there (just like us). The last 2 pages in this book are worth the price of admission. This book will make you think!
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Reach Out Book Review: Gary Scarano
Reachout.org

The book, "The Calling", by Jacob Israel is a riveting story, within a parable. It is an involved narrative that has the reader looking beyond what the author has written. I found myself driven, page-after-page, to find out who is this Thomas James? Mysterious characters in the book tell us "The truth will rise." And Thomas writes "…What will happen when the truth is poured out on a world that is deceived?' This question is answered in stark reality. Jacob Israel is an excellent storyteller that keeps his audience captivated. I was pleasantly surprised to see, at the end of the book, that he leaves room for more adventures with Thomas. Due to Jacob's talent as a writer, I expect we will be reading more from him and l look forward to that event!

Visit http://www.reachout.org/ Also watch the Reach Out TV Show
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LIGHT OF TRUTH Supernatural Fiction: Lynn Rush

Jacob Israel tells a great story in The Calling. It’s thought provoking and challenging, especially to those who struggle with the question: Why is there suffering in the world?... The Calling takes you on a scary, heart-wrenching ride to an unexpected ending. But, Jacob Israel does a great job showing that God has a plan, though we may not understand it, all will be well if we trust that plan."
http://lynnrush.wordpress.com/2008/10/25/the-calling-by-jacob-israel/
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JesusReligion.Com Book Review: LC Duplatt

The Calling by Jacob Israel is a thrilling, but enlightening adventure that takes one ultimately on a journey in pursuit of spiritual truth. Through clever story telling, Jacob Israel allows the reader to contemplate traditional, religious dogma while sharing a higher message and purpose to life. The Calling is a greatly rewarding read.
LC Duplatt JesusReligion.com
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What the EVERYDAY PEOPLE have to say! more reviews

Stephanie Krill:
This book is such an inspiration. I lost a daughter that was 2 months old back in 1992 (I was only 18 years old, and a single parent) and didn't realize how much I was still hurting until I read this book. For years I have hated to hear people s...ay it's "God's will" when someone dies-- I have always refused to believe that. Now I understand more of what that truly means. Thanks you so much!!! I strongly recommend this book to anyone who is hurting or grieving
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Brenda Ojala WOW, that was an extraordinary book that could not be put down until finished. What a beautiful story of complete truth with alot of hidden nuggets. So liberating..... If you are ready to get out of the box, out from behind the walls that man has built...READ THIS BOOK!!!
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Kathy Hughes Crawford Just finished reading The Calling...I loved it! You wrote about me!!!! I saw me in the book.
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Gary Sigler:
This book is a masterpiece!
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Lisa Carpenter Roberts I finished reading "The Calling" late last night, and I am definitely going to read it again. Last night I couldn't "turn the pages fast enough" ... couldn't wait to see how everything came together at the end! Such love, forgiveness and compassion ... lots of thoughts and emotions!!
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Travis Bryant Hey so i read the calling and it was amazing...i couldn't put it down....it only took me like a day and a half to read it even with a busy schedule....i'm in a traveling drama ministry so i don't really get much time off, but when i did i picked up the book and started reading it....amazing
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Crystal Dobbins: Jacob, I read The Calling a voice in the dead woods-there were hidden messages in each title of each chapter-characters in the being of the book show up in the end-lots of twists-I loved Thomas James-I feel like I know him personally-I'm waiting... on the sequel-I've encouraged my friends to purchase this read
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Jennifer Schick:
I read your book in one day. I couldn't put it down til I finished. I wanted to see how this all was going to be put together in the end. Much to think about and causes one to dig deep into the well of your soul.. Thanks for writting such a great book.
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Kimberley Spezzano Jordan:
I have to say a very easy book to read! Every chapter made me think about life as it is today. What awesome detail as you could see the whole thing come together! Everyone should get a copy and read it, would make a difference in a lot of people's outlook on life! Loved it!
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Wendy Hagenow Utterback:
Beautiful, simply beautiful, Jacob. The Calling was such an inspiration to me. I identified with the story on so many levels. Hope and faith have been such a big part of my life in the last few years and I found myself emotionally connecting with ...your characters a number of times and felt comforted by their experiences. Your writing is exciting, breathtaking and vivid. Thank you for creating such an amazing work!
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Bruce Harbert:
Jacob...just finished your book last nite. What can I say? It is the truth of us all...just as the life of Jesus was. Hopefully this book will eclipse the Left Behind series that many have been so enamoured with as they discover the glory andy myst...ery of the truth that has been lying dormant inside them. I looked for some of your hidden mysteries while reading. Correct me if I'm wrong...Legirion=Religion??? Surely this is correct...a Psychiatric Hospital where people are told what to eat, what they can do and not do, what to believe, etc...BRILLIANT!
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Terry Potter:
I recomend all my friends get a copy of this book. All I can say is, WOW!!! Jaycob is one of those rare writers that captures you and brings you right into the story as if your there in person watching all the events unfold right in front of your eye...s. He has an amazing ability to put many parallels to the Bible and what we as Christains struggle with in our mind and spirits down on paper. This would be the movie of the century if it was on the big screen! Thank you Jaycob for giving this gift to the world! :D P.S. It helped my daughter see things more in God's perspective and truly has given her hope. Thanks again Jaycob! We love you! :D !
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Brittany Gause Thank you for the add! And i must say again that your book was without a doubt a life changing experience! Not just a book, but the debt of thought that went into it is amazing, and i dont think i will look at life the same way. Thank u for sharing your gift with others!
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Cari Hiles Winebrenner:
The Calling was different than any other book. The symbolism was amazing. As a woman who has lost a son (Grant 7 yrs ago) I especially related to Nancy. I also thought the way each character was tied to Thomas before the coma spoke volumes about pred...estination. And the fact that he started w/the outcasts/insane is representative of Gods compassion for all as well as His ability to use those who make themselves available... Even in uncertainty... Which also speaks measures about faith and trust. I could go on and on.... but I'll leave room for others to write on your wall ;) Anyway, thank you for sharing your talent and revelation w/the world. I was blessed.
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Sandra Jardineiro:
Just finished the book - loved it so much I cried. Thank you for writing such a wonderful novel. It surely does put life into perspective. A true inspiration for us all. God Bless!
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Layla Hicks:
Review: “But like ignorant sheep, they are not aware…” ~Jacob Israel --- At a time when our purposes are at the forefront of our minds and the universe is at hand, Jacob Israel has shared his revelation with us in such a way that when you’ve finished his book, that revelation can be found within our own selves.The soul has many secrets that are meant to be unlocked and Jacob Israel has allowed a means for his readers to release the chains of torment, suffering, struggle and loss.
Every reader will relate to the afflictions suffered by Thomas James in some way and every reader will be rewarded with the truth and wisdom that can be found inside themselves.You’ll feel like you’re walking with Thomas James in his journey and make no mistake: it will leave your heart hurting, pounding, rejoicing and healing. This book is well-read and well-written. You will find yourself consumed with inspiration by this riveting masterpiece.Much more than a leisure book; The Calling has the ingredients to not only satisfy the most avid reader but you will be intrigued while you’re reading it, empowered by its truth, and craving more when you’re finished.
“…when you finally wake up and see the light, there is beauty and much of it.” ~Jacob Israel"
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Phil Liszewski "Who Knew" you have a great way with words and ideas. Loved the poem. I have already commented on the book, but I'll say it again. Great read, makes you think and want to go back and reread.
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Dean Dosher Anyone searching for the reason of the life that they have and the life that they are, will find answers .Jacob, thank you for your labor of love-it made a difference in my life.. Dean
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Gerri Bolton Jacob, I just finished reading the "Calling"..I found it difficult to put down, once I got a ways into it. Discovered it to be a real eye-opener into the WAYS of God with those whom He has called to be conformed into the Image and likeness of His Son. That calling out of the RELIGIOUS trappings is not always understoo...d, and many times we wonder and ask: "What's going on Jesus, I thought my path would be 'smoother' once I started down the path of Your choosing.........."
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Louis Charles:

It's a great book and one I really enjoyed. It really deserves being read a few times in order attempt to find all the metaphors you have hidden within. :C)

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Michelle Holstein:

The Calling, by Jacob Israel is the most thought-provoking book I have read this year. Jacob weaves an incredible tale of suspense, sadness, joy, faith, love, and forgiveness. Seeing the world through the eyes of Thomas James has renewed my faith in ...spirit, love, and hope. The book came to me at time when I was questioning my own calling; I found comfort in reading the words of this book and taking the time to examine my own path on life’s journey. I have read the book twice and will read it again, as each time I am blessed with new insight and understanding. Jacob Israel is now on my list of "must read" authors.
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Ambre Potter:
jacob i so loved your book i thank you so much for sending it to me and it has really helped me out in my life and has given me a new out look on life and if this tells you anything i never read infact i hate to read and i LOVED this book it was hard... to put down and maid me cry in some places thank you so much for this gift you have given us!
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Laura Casale:

Hi Jacob! The book was GREAT!!! Tried sending you a message on your myspace, while I was gone from facebook! Don't know if you ever picked it up! Anyway, I was totally captivated and deeply touched!!!! Thank you again for writing such a wonderful book!
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Robin Christina:
This is more than just an edge of your seat thriller, it is packed with Truth and Wisdom. Would make a great film. Thank you, Jacob.
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Carl Lynn Rhyne:
"The Calling" I have discovered some hidden meaninigs in this novel that are pheonminal. I finished it yesterday, buyt now I'm going to reread some because of the mysteries that are there! WOW!
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Martha Illene:
Jacob - I know you're book is classified as a religious fiction. But I believe it's only because there doesn't seem to be a category available for what it really is. Your book is truly one of enlightenment. When I began reading it, I c...ould immediately see the parallels not only of Christ's life, but my own; which really is ours. A true perspective of how our Father sees us, how he truly loves and wants us to walk in the freedom of His Son's life, no longer exchanging the truth for a lie, but waking up and staying awake to what the reality really is about who we are and why we are. Your book brought this home for me. Look forward to rereading. Thanks for your obedience!
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Stephen Campise:

Dude!greatest book ever(besides the bible) I just finished reading your book it's awsome it's actually inspired me to read The Bible more, I hope there will be another book to follow up this one and connect it to the future in this book. Awsome work I will be in touch with you soon.
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Sherry Chessor:
I really loved your book Jacob. I hope you sell a million copies. I want to get a few extra copies just to pass around to friends and family.
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Judy Lawrence:
Jacob, I loved your book. I know the Father's heart and His Love to All.
You have expressed it beautifully and in this day we need to set the captives free. Thank you for your revelation and your heart for God.
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Ben Bunch:
Awesome book! (Bought 25 copies and handed them out to people)
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Barb Arsneau: Jacob's book The Calling is a must read! I have NEVER read another book like this one! This book just by reading it can truly change your life.. how you see the world,how you see others,how you see yourself!It will open the eyes to all who read ...it..you get absorbed into this book from beginning to end..this book should be read by everyone..you will never see life the same again!
Good work Jacob my friend!
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Janine Palazzolo Lange;

An absolutely amazing story.... Hands down my favorite book of all time! I'm a fan for life!
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Kathleen Nieves: I was so happy to hear your shout out for The Calling on WLIX. I am STILL blown away at how good your book was. I continue to tell everyone about it. That is the first book I have actually FINISHED (in a very short time) in many years!!! May the ...Lord richly bless you this day & grant you (& family) the desires of your heart. Your in our prayers!!Read More
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Diane L. Harris: Jacob, my 14 year old started reading your book just last night and this morning he announced he's enjoying it so much that he plans to recommend it to his middle school library. He's one of their official book testers.
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Angela Goncalves:
J.....Thank you for writing the book. It touched me in so many emotional ways. I have to say that when you wrote of THE BOOK OF JOEL I just started crying and couldn't stop. Just alot behind that. Amazing work...J
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Jeffery Bradbury The Calling~~ Its not only a great read, it helps us to remember who We are in Christ. Fiction? Yes, but it is also interwoven with Truth. There are Gems and Nuggets found within its pages. ~ I recommend this book for all believers and non believers alike. Also for those who know there is more to God than what they wer...e taught. This Book points you to the Truth that was always there within you.
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Chessly Nesci: Hey Jacob. You are an amazing writer!! Your book is the only book I'm reading at the moment and will definately let you know what I think. So far sooooo good. You have talent my friend. Have a blessed day! ~ Chessly :)
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Mike Morenz: Just finished the book last night! We need to promote this thing! Well...maybe not...it's so good it will explode on it's own.
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Layla Hicks:
I LOVED IT!!!! I can't even begin to express the magnitude of the impact of what you've written. It is awesome. I totally couldn't put it down and that's exactly what I expect out of a book. To me, it's just so great to have ...the base that it has; and then to put in end times along with it just rocks my world lol
The story is great, the way it is written is great; it flows real well - I had no trouble moving right along. The twists and turns are awesome, the emotions it causes in the reader are fantastic and it absolutely gets better and better. It's one of those great books where you end a chapter and can't NOT go to the next chapter. It's got that pull; it just rocks. What's next?Read More
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Sharon Truax Beitzell:

I fell asleep reading the book last night, woke up at one and finished the chapter. How sick is that? I know exactly how Layla feels. The book is awesome!
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Justin Machacek:

I read The Calling by Jacob Israel front to back in just a couple of days... I was captivated. I took it everywhere I went and read it each chance I got. My wife was almost aggravated at one point (good thing it wasn't longer)! This is a grea...t book that is an easy read. The spiritual parallels are profound and this is sure to be a big hit when people begin finding out about it.Read More
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Lisamarie Bashaw:

Thank you so much for the priviledge to read '' THE CALLING" This is an excellent book! So well written I could not put it down. I urge everyone to get your own copy of this excellent book. It is sure to be a best seller!
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Annemarie Lepoutre
The Calling is amazing...can't put it down...which is a problem because I have to work and I am already reading two other books...lol....Thank you, Jacob...your book is captivating...revealing...exposing....heart changing...Just love you for it. :)))) God bless!
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Vern Gross
Just finished Jacob's book, The Calling. A novel filled with intrigue and mystery, battle and disappointment, and yet the tread of hope is woven throughout. It truly corresponds to life as it is in all of its raw emotions. A must read for those seeking the Kingdom of God in a world that seeming is unraveling.
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Annette Cartwright Jackson
Just got your book yesterday as my son says OMG wow I am half way through, amazing. I will say after the first chapter I had to lay it down and wept with a heart of thanksgiving for God given his son for us and Jesus given himself. Broke my heart I will write you after I finish it. I am sure that will be today. Love it love it love it.
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Penny Duncan
Thank you for "The Calling". Read it in less than 2 days, couldn't put it down. Your portrayal of Thomas helped me to realize in a deeper way that "there is more to us all", as Thomas said. Even more erasing the line of separation between us & God, drawn by mans misinterpretations of the scriptures. Definitely God's timing that while I was reading "The Calling", I was in the midst of a situation where the truth was being denied for a watered down lie that was more palatable. The words of Thomas kept coming to be about how we've forgotten who we are & how he was here to remind us. That's what I see God doing...re-membering His dis-membered body. Beautifully written.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

2009 WINNER for BEST RELIGIOUS FICTION - National Indie Excellence Book Awards

"The Calling" is an action-packed riveting story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This book will challenge you to stand up for what is right and believe that good can overcome evil... -

Joni Lamb
Best Selling Author and Award Winning Talk Show Host
Daystar Television Network
www.Daystar.com
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BACK COVER REVIEW: Gretchen Geyer
My take on THE CALLING: A Voice In The Dead Woods by Jacob Israel

If you only read one book this year, let this one be it! ... It wasn't long before I pulled out a pen and highlighter and did something rare for me - I love books and hate to mark them up - I marked dialogue and narrative that strummed a chord within me and resonated within my heart. A story written as present and in the near future - a world that I could picture forming around us even as these words are spread throughout the world.

Enter the world of Thomas James where reality and dreams mesh, intertwine and dance in a subtle rhythm. A world on the horizon, written with prophetic voice and vivid imagery. Meet a boy with unlikely beginnings and a Calling that overwhelms him. As events unfold, he is faced with a life of painful circumstances and mystery - but one day the truth overtakes him so that he can be a voice of freedom and of healing to those around him.

"It's just part of another chapter that has to be read so all will know to stand tall in the face of adversity." "...His life is beyond his control. He cannot choose the things that happen to him. He can only choose how he reacts....He is standing where others refuse to stand. He stands in faith. He will not fear what might happen if he does the very thing that can save them all."

Meet Jacob Israel, an up and coming rival of Ted Dekker and Frank Peretti (my two top favorite authors of suspense and adrenaline-reading) - not to mention, a book that I agree could be placed in a genre with The Shack. Jacob clearly knows the face of suffering...and finding the face of truth. And now it's Thomas James' turn...come and take the journey with him and experience The Calling...Your Calling.
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The Calling By Jacob Israel
Review by: Christine Shoup
Book Reviewer.

.... "The Calling, by Jacob Israel, is a thought-provoking novel that will have theologians, philosophers, literary academics and book clubs scrambling for copies and arranging for lectures by the author. The story is fantastically complex if you are willing to see beyond the written word. It ultimately delivers a simple message of strength, faith, love and humanity. Protagonist Thomas James is a young man, seemingly, just like any other. He suffers from nightmares, has trouble fitting in at school and has a beloved hooded sweatshirt. He learns early on that the world is a fickle place. Throughout it all, Thomas has a keen sense of who he is - even in the face of adversity. He intelligently questions his peers, life, faith, teachers, priest and future. The truth in his answer was something he never expected.
....The Calling truly moved me. It touched my sense of humanity and stoked my empathy. I found a piece of myself on those pages that I lost a decade ago which was unexpected but welcome. Jacob Israel is not just a great writer but also a great storyteller. There is a distinction to be made and this book illustrates it perfectly. One moment really stood out for me: - "Humanity must wake from this nightmare if there is ever to be hope for the future." I found it to be a prophetically true and timely sentiment given today's chaotic global environment. Whether you are religious, experiencing a crisis of faith, an atheist or simply open to testing your own humanity, this book will ultimately strike a deeply personal chord with you. The truth will change you too."
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KINGDOM RESOURCES BOOK REVIEW: Gary Sigler
Sigler.org

The Calling is one of the best books I have read. Jacob Israel has written a masterful story that rings with truth and awakens the truth within us that we are more than flesh. "A Masterpiece!"
----------------------------------------------
SFrevu - Intelligent reviews for Intelligent Readers
Review by Dr. Randy Radic

.... I have to confess that I read The Calling as a horror story, with just a sprinkle of saintliness here and there, which really gave me the chills. Which speaks volumes for Jacob Israel’s writing skills. He doesn’t let his story spiral out of control and descend into the sucking morass of Gothic overkill, ala Lovecraft. Instead, he deftly molds the elements of the story, building tension, ala Bram Stoker.
....Jacob Israel has spun this filament of pure, white light through the darkness. And it really grips the reader. After I finished the book, I was informed that there’s a lot of allegory in The Calling. And when I thought about it (after being enlightened), I realized that The Calling could be read that way. My only excuse for not seeing it is that I was too engrossed in reading a darned good horror story.
.... If you choose to read it allegorically, that’s fine. Or if, like me, you read it as ‘just’ a horror story, that’s fine too. But either way, I doubt – like doubting Thomas in the Bible – you’ll be able to put it down. It’s a real, old-fashioned page-turner. And in today’s world, that’s hard to come by.
.... So to paraphrase the little boy in the television commercial, “Buy it. You’ll like it.”
http://www.sfrevu.com/php/Review-id.php?id=9036
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THE PATHFINDER: Elwin R. Roach

The Calling - A Voice In The Dead Woods is one of the best books I can remember reading. It ranks up there with The Shack. My wife, Margit said that she liked it more. Once I was able to settle down long enough to really get into the book, I was riveted to it, and went back every chance I had after other things pulled me away from it.
http://Godfire.net
--------------------------------------------------------
CORNHUSKER ACADEMY: Janna Ryan
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

This book, "The Calling" really drew me by its description and I was exited to have the chance to read it. I dove right in and was caught right away by the complexity of it all... The ins and outs of how people connect in this book are amazing, don't assume that any character in this book is there for just a moment, they all have a reason for being there (just like us). The last 2 pages in this book are worth the price of admission. This book will make you think!
--------------------------------------------------------
Reach Out Book Review: Gary Scarano
Reachout.org

The book, "The Calling", by Jacob Israel is a riveting story, within a parable. It is an involved narrative that has the reader looking beyond what the author has written. I found myself driven, page-after-page, to find out who is this Thomas James? Mysterious characters in the book tell us "The truth will rise." And Thomas writes "…What will happen when the truth is poured out on a world that is deceived?' This question is answered in stark reality. Jacob Israel is an excellent storyteller that keeps his audience captivated. I was pleasantly surprised to see, at the end of the book, that he leaves room for more adventures with Thomas. Due to Jacob's talent as a writer, I expect we will be reading more from him and l look forward to that event!

For more information contact us at info@ReachOUT.org
Visit http://www.reachout.org/ Also watch the Reach Out TV Show
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Review by: Layla Hicks

“But like ignorant sheep, they are not aware…” ~Jacob Israel --- At a time when our purposes are at the forefront of our minds and the universe is at hand, Jacob Israel has shared his revelation with us in such a way that when you’ve finished his book, that revelation can be found within our own selves.The soul has many secrets that are meant to be unlocked and Jacob Israel has allowed a means for his readers to release the chains of torment, suffering, struggle and loss.

Every reader will relate to the afflictions suffered by Thomas James in some way and every reader will be rewarded with the truth and wisdom that can be found inside themselves.You’ll feel like you’re walking with Thomas James in his journey and make no mistake: it will leave your heart hurting, pounding, rejoicing and healing. This book is well-read and well-written. You will find yourself consumed with inspiration by this riveting masterpiece.Much more than a leisure book; The Calling has the ingredients to not only satisfy the most avid reader but you will be intrigued while you’re reading it, empowered by its truth, and craving more when you’re finished.

“…when you finally wake up and see the light, there is beauty and much of it.” ~Jacob Israel
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LIGHT OF TRUTH Supernatural Fiction: Lynn Rush

Jacob Israel tells a great story in The Calling. It’s thought provoking and challenging, especially to those who struggle with the question: Why is there suffering in the world?... The Calling takes you on a scary, heart-wrenching ride to an unexpected ending. But, Jacob Israel does a great job showing that God has a plan, though we may not understand it, all will be well if we trust that plan."
http://lynnrush.wordpress.com/2008/10/25/the-calling-by-jacob-israel/
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JesusReligion.Com Book Review: LC Duplatt

The Calling by Jacob Israel is a thrilling, but enlightening adventure that takes one ultimately on a journey in pursuit of spiritual truth. Through clever story telling, Jacob Israel allows the reader to contemplate traditional, religious dogma while sharing a higher message and purpose to life. The Calling is a greatly rewarding read.
LC Duplatt JesusReligion.com
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The Goodseed Book Review: Mary Kroeger

A book that keeps you spell bound to the very end! In this exciting drama the author has cleverly placed an allegory - a wake-up call for Christians to leave their religious imaginations and receive the true nourishment that can only be found in the truth that Christ is! A challenging book for group discussion! Mary Kroeger
http://www.thegoodseed.org/
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Review by: Trinity Tate
Tate Publishing

"What takes place in the town of Bethel is awe inspiring and incredibly moving. I personally think that this is one of the best mixtures of fantasy, biblical accuracy, and allegory that I have read in quite some time. Flawless concept and Masterfully Written!"