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message 301: by Andie (new)

Andie Andrews | 5 comments Good morning, all!

As a shepherdess/hobby farmer and the author of Farming and Homesteading with the Saints (Loyola Press, July 2023), I wanted to write a novella about one of the saints I discovered while doing research for FHS.

The Shepherdess was inspired by the brief life of St. Germaine Cousin of Pibrac as illuminated by Catholic history and tradition. An isolated and abused child stricken with an incurable, disfiguring disease, she became a shepherdess and radiant model of patience, humility, faith and fortitude — as well as the patroness of those suffering from abandonment, abuse, disability, or poverty. In a world plagued by the evils of human trafficking, St. Germaine is a serviceable saint for our times.

Written by a modern-day shepherdess, some names, characters, details, and events have been novelized as a means of presenting St. Germaine's story with heart and imagination while remaining faithful to the essence of her biography and heroic journey to sainthood.

Whether you're at home in the flock — or one who's wandering or lost — let St. Germaine lead you closer to the heart of Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

***
I'm running a (Kindle) giveaway for The Shepherdess starting Sept. 18, but in case you'd like to read it sooner, here's the link. I've also included a link to Farming & Homesteading with the Saints. Thank y'all for your time and for reading! <3

https://www.amazon.com/Shepherdess-St...

https://www.amazon.com/Farming-Homest...


message 302: by SUSAN (new)

SUSAN | 87 comments The online Catholic magazine OnePeterFive is starting a Journal of Fiction. They are seeking writers of fiction. https://onepeterfive.com/new-catholic...


message 303: by Sandra (new)

Sandra Sparkler | 2 comments KINDLE COUNTDOWN DEAL from today Monday, November 13th to Saturday, November 18th!

Weary Traveler by S.R. De Costa
Weary Traveler

Unleash your inner warrior!

Discover ancient secrets and timeless wisdom that empower you to combat the cunning tactics of the Adversary. "Weary Traveler" is not just a story; it's a guide, equipping you with the spiritual arsenal needed to face deception head-on and emerge victorious.

“The battle against the devil, which is the principal task of Saint Michael the Archangel, is still being fought today because the devil is still alive and active in the world.” - Pope St. John Paul II


message 304: by Donna (last edited Nov 20, 2023 06:47AM) (new)

Donna Silveira (donna_silveira) | 16 comments FREE BOOK PROMOTION.

Black Friday Sale! - This book will be free on Black Friday, Nov, 24th for one day only! If you want to get this copy free, this is your chance!
This Is Your Last Warning: An Authoritative End of Days Timeline

This is a book that examines purported Marian apparitions and mystic visions where the messages discuss future events, scrutinizing them for their reliability. Using guidelines given by the Church in discerning valid from invalid apparitions, the book discusses the reasons some prophecies are invalid. The apparitions and prophecies from mystic visions which are highly reliable are then taken to form a timeline of the events we can expect to see if mankind does not turn back to God. The timeline spans from today, and some of the craziness we see in our world today, through an era of peace, and ultimately to the antichrist and Christ's return on the last day.


message 305: by Sandra (new)

Sandra Sparkler | 2 comments Free on Kindle Unlimited!

The End Times by Sandra De Costa
The End Times

In a world teetering on the edge of uncertainty, a humble priest named Father Cupertino emerges as a beacon of hope. A question echoes in the hearts of believers and skeptics. Are we on the brink of the end times?

"The End Times" challenges readers to confront their deepest fears and convictions, exploring the intersection of faith, prophecy, and the fragile balance between good and evil. Will Father Cupertino's revelations prove true, or is the world merely caught in the throes of its own tumultuous evolution? Join the quest for the truth as the clock winds down and the shadows of uncertainty lengthen, inviting readers to ponder the ultimate Is the end near, and are we prepared for what lies beyond?


message 306: by Donna (last edited Dec 09, 2023 08:56AM) (new)

Donna Silveira (donna_silveira) | 16 comments A Mother's Walk Through Scripture A Prayerful Journey Through the Gospels by Donna Silveira
A Mother's Walk Through Scripture: A Prayerful Journey Through the Gospels

New book - based on the mysteries of the Rosary. (Yes, all 20).
This is a look at the gospel narrative through Mary's eyes.
Come walk with Our Lady, and possibly see the life of Christ in a way you never considered.

If you read it, please be kind enough to leave a review! :)


message 307: by Richard (new)

Richard Zmuda | 1 comments Hi, I'm Richard Zmuda, the author of a new book, The Mole of Vatican Council II: The True Story of "Xavier Rynne." (Available on Amazon.) It is historical fiction at its best, based closely on the eyewitness accounts of the late Father Francis X. Murphy, who found himself in Rome in 1962 at the start of the Second Vatican Council and chronicled its proceedings and political intrigue for The New Yorker magazine in his "Letter from Vatican City" series under the pseudonym "Xavier Rynne."

The book follows the furious efforts of the Vatican's Congregation of the Holy Office (successor to the ancient "Holy Inquisition") to unmask Rynne's true identity and make him pay for his perceived disloyalty. It provides rich detail about the unlikely election of Pope John XXIII, chosen as a transitional pope, whose dream of launching Vatican Council II became a reality during his brief papacy. It also follows the challenges of his successor, Pope Paul VI, to keep Vatican II alive despite the subversive efforts of certain powerful cardinals in the Roman Curia who were determined to destroy it - and came perilously close to succeeding.

The Mole of Vatican Council II weaves a riveting, original storyline about the momentous gathering of 2,500 cardinals and bishops from around the world - as observed in real time by one courageous young American priest. A compelling, eye-opening read, not just for Catholics but for those of all faiths and non-believers alike. The ending is in doubt until the very last pages!


message 308: by Fonch (new)

Fonch | 2423 comments Richard wrote: "Hi, I'm Richard Zmuda, the author of a new book, The Mole of Vatican Council II: The True Story of "Xavier Rynne." (Available on Amazon.) It is historical fiction at its best, based closely on the ..."

Dear Mr. Zmuda, welcome to The Catholic Book Club. I hope you find what you need attentively Fonch.


message 309: by Katherine (last edited Jun 20, 2024 02:06PM) (new)

Katherine Koch | 6 comments Hello! My name is Katherine Koch. I’m a new author who has published a story based on an episode in my own family history—and it’s far from the usual WWII fare.

My paternal grandfather’s uncle, Fr. Viktor Koch, C.P., was an American missionary who witnessed the rise and fall of Nazi Germany behind enemy lines. During the Depression he hired the town of Schwarzenfeld to construct a monastery for his religious order, the Passionists. In the process, he ushered its citizens from abject poverty into plenty and earned their unwavering loyalty. As a Passionist, he prompted his followers to “perceive the Crucified Christ in all who suffer.” His unique ministry and American ideals had a profound impact upon the people of this devout Catholic town.

Fr. Viktor’s story culminated in April 1945. As American forces surged deep into Germany, SS guards at concentration camps began transporting Jewish prisoners away from the front. One such convoy from Flossenbürg passed through Schwarzenfeld. The SS committed a horrific atrocity, leaving 140 dead in the town train station. American liberators arrived two days later and assumed that the locals were complicit. Their commander issued a devastating ultimatum that has gone down in Schwarzenfeld’s history: the townspeople were ordered to dig up the bodies, wash them, clothe them in donated clothing, construct coffins (despite a power outage and a shortage of nails), dig a grave trench, and hold a proper funeral ceremony—all in 24 hours. If the town failed, the commander would order the execution of every German man in town between 16 and 60.

Fr. Viktor organized the effort to fulfill these grim conditions and interceded as a mediator, arguing that the people of Schwarzenfeld were not average Germans. They were devout Catholics who looked to him (not the Nazis) for personal and spiritual leadership. Their moral compass had been set by an American—and a Passionist—and they were innocent of this atrocity. In the end, he negotiated for another day to fulfill the ultimatum and saved Schwarzenfeld without a shot being fired.

Two months ago, I published a historical fiction novel titled, The Sower of Black Field: Inspired by the True Story of an American in Nazi Germany. This book fleshes out the bare-bones history with a vivid, character-driven narrative that makes the reader feel like they are living through these events. The theological virtues of charity, faith, and hope are deeply woven into the story, and characters ponder how God is present in our lives, even in a world stricken by evil beyond comprehension.

Link on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sower-Black-Fi...

From Kirkus Reviews (which gave it their “GET IT” stamp of approval). Their reviewer called The Sower “A compelling exploration of faith and resistance in the face of oppression,” which I think is fitting.
https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-re...

From Chanticleer Book Reviews (a FIVE STAR / BEST BOOKS rating):
https://www.chantireviews.com/2024/05...

I discovered this unknown episode of my family history in 2004 and embarked upon a research journey that took me from the Passionist Archives in Union City, NJ, to the National Archives in Washington, DC, and finally to the town of Schwarzenfeld itself, where I met Fr. Viktor’s parishioners. This story is a profound (and historically true) example of the power of faith. It has certainly enriched my own. It’s my fondest hope that the Catholic Book Club here on Goodreads might consider adding it to their reading list.

Peace, and my very best regards,

Katherine Koch
Author of The Sower of Black Field: Inspired by the True Story of an American in Nazi Germany


message 310: by Manuel (new)

Manuel Alfonseca | 2366 comments Mod
Katherine wrote: "It’s my fondest hope that the Catholic Book Club here on Goodreads might consider adding it to their reading list."

You can do it yourself. Just add a comment here:
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...


message 311: by Katherine (new)

Katherine Koch | 6 comments Manuel wrote: "Katherine wrote: "It’s my fondest hope that the Catholic Book Club here on Goodreads might consider adding it to their reading list."

You can do it yourself. Just add a comment here:
https://www.g..."


Thank you so much, Manuel. Will do!


message 312: by Kristi (new)

Kristi | 112 comments Katherine, your book sounds fascinating! I look forward to reading it.


message 313: by Katherine (new)

Katherine Koch | 6 comments Kristi wrote: "Katherine, your book sounds fascinating! I look forward to reading it."

Thank you, Kristi! I spent 20 years with the research and writing, and it merited all that time because this episode in history is so rare and completely unexpected. It's a faith story---and it was a journey of faith for the author as well. I truly hope that you get a chance to read it, and enjoy it. I'll propose adding it to the reading list as Manuel recommended.


message 314: by Lou (new)

Lou Giansante | 4 comments I am promoting to the group my book Tov in China: Missionary Letters 1947-1952. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...

The title may sound boring; but I assure you the letters are not. Fr. James Vincent "Tov" Buttino was an idealistic young Maryknoll priest, he was assigned to the Catholic missions in southern China soon after the end of World War II. He promised his mother, father, and 9 siblings a letter a week, and he kept the promise. His letters read like vivid stories as he described his work bringing Catholicism to a rural Chinese culture. Besides the family, neighbors in the close-knit Italian American community of Cortland, New York flocked to the family home each week to read the latest installment. Tov was a local hero to the people of St. Anthony's parish.

Unfortunately for Tov, the Chinese Civil War still raged post WW II, pitting the Communists of Mao Tse Tung against the Nationalists of Chiang Kai shek. The Communists were triumphant and worked to cleanse the country of "enemies of the people" -- which included American Maryknollers. Physical and psychological harassment led to a year of house arrest and separation from the laity they served. Most difficult for the missioners, near their dwelling was a killing field and daily they witnessed executions by the Communists of landlords and others.

Fr. Buttino was my wife's uncle and through her I discovered the cache of his letters, neatly gathered in binders. The letters contain Cold War history, missionary history, and family history. I did the book out of a belief that this man's story was worth sharing with the world. Besides the letters, I wrote a biographical introduction to the man and my relation to him. And for each of the five years of letters I wrote a brief synopsis of what was happening politically in China, contrasted with what was simultaneously happening in the United States, and especially in Cortland, New York.

FYI, I first published Tov in China in 2012 through the McNally Jackson bookstore in New York City. But they ceased publications in 2017. I produced this current edition through Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing and it is available in paperback at Amazon.com


message 315: by Lou (new)

Lou Giansante | 4 comments Hello Catholics Who Love Books,
When I finished my book Tov in China (which you can find on Goodreads), I had a pile of books and DVDs that I used in research. I'd hate to just chuck them. Would you like one, no strings attached (though when you receive it you might Venmo me $5 for shipping).
Here's what's available, first come first served:
The Call, John Hersey
Satan Never Sleeps, Pearl Buck
The Small Woman, Alan Burgess
Perseverance Through Faith, Father W. Aedan McGrath
The Keys of the Kingdom, A.J. Cronin
The Missionary Letters of Vincent Donovan
The Inn of the Sixth Happiness (DVD)
The Keys of the Kingdom (DVD)
Satan Never Sleeps (DVD)
You can reach me directly at [email protected]
Best to All.


message 316: by Fonch (new)

Fonch | 2423 comments Hello Mr. Giansante i have heard of some of the books and DVD that you recommend. You could add it the "The left hand of the God" by William Edmund Barrett the movie was directed by Edward Dimitryk and played by Humphrey Bogart, Gene Tierney and Lee J. Cobb. The Cronin's novel i have read it. I like much more the Citadel there was a movie with Robert Donat. He would apear in "The inn of the sixth happiness" in unforgotable last role of Mandarin converted to the Christian religion. And i love a lot Leo McCarey.


message 317: by Andie (new)

Andie Andrews | 5 comments Hello, I wanted to share news from the 2024 Catholic Media Association's Book Awards, held in Atlanta in June (a professional association of media specialists/publishers). My novelette, The Shepherdess: The Story of St. Germaine Cousin won first place in its category and my other book, Farming and Homesteading with the Saints (Loyola Press) received an honorable mention. You can find both books on Amazon (Andie Andrews, and Andie Andrews Eisenberg respectively). I hope you'll enjoy reading them! https://www.amazon.com/Shepherdess-St...


message 318: by Wayne (new)

Wayne Johnson | 2 comments So I began this journey over 14 years ago. Back in 2010 I was inspired to write this book. It was a process but often when inspiration hits, it feels effortless because I am just the instrument for the Author. The crazy thing is that for 14 years I shelved this work. As my journey to deepen my faith progresses, I wanted to truly know the meaning of what Jesus said rather than someone else’s interpretation. This quest changed everything. Bible stories and verses that I have heard, read, and “understood” came to life like never before. “For, although we are in the flesh, we do not battle according to the flesh, for the weapons of our battle are not of flesh but are enormously powerful, capable of destroying fortresses. We destroy arguments and every pretension raising itself against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive in obedience to Christ and we are ready to punish every disobedience, once your obedience is complete.” (2 Cor 10:3-6 )
I began to realize the subtle way Satan uses lies as thoughts and how he tricks us into thinking those thoughts are our thoughts. The fear, the feelings of inadequacy and relevance. I was fighting for all the reasons why I couldn’t do the very thing God was telling me to do. The stronghold that I built around that lie not only locked that lie in, it also locked the truth out. “He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus said to him in reply, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 16: 15-18) The rock being that “Jesus is the truth.“ (John 14:6) and that is the rock that his Church is built upon. The promises and principles He established are the keys that will unlock the gates and strongholds, the satanic thoughts we carry and defend. Once opened, His truth will destroy all lies. Thus, “Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”(Matthew 16: 19)
Fourteen years ago I would not have considered my fear-driven hesitations and feelings of inadequacy and relevancy to be satanic. But I was wrong. So here and now in 2024 I strive to faithfully walk in my purpose and publish my first work. “Thus faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17) "And you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free". (John 8:32)
I pray that it blesses you. Nice to meet you all! Wayne Johnson

The book title is: Habits for Jesus: Steps to a Powerful Spiritual Transformation

I am new to this and welcome your feedback. You can check it out here:

https://a.co/d/7wgNxP8


message 319: by Laurel (last edited Nov 15, 2024 01:50PM) (new)

Laurel Guillen | 3 comments A Bellwether Christmas by Laurel Guillen
A shepherd boy and his farm animals from a small village in medieval Italy may get the chance to be part of a brand-new Christmas tradition. But everything depends on the courage of one headstrong, impetuous, unforgettable lamb. This award-winning novel based on history and the legends of St. Francis of Assisi is charming adults and delighting older children. Get into the TRUE spirit of Christmas now! Kindle version on sale for a limited time, only $3.99.
Hardcover signed copy giveaway in time for Christmas!
https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/en...


message 320: by A.K. (new)

A.K. Frailey | 2 comments Hi, Everyone,

My OldEarth and Newearth novel series and short story collections reach out to the Catholic world in a universal connectedness, created by One God, searching for our place in a complicated world.

Readers look for relatable stories that deepen understanding and compassion in our wounded society.

What my writing brings to readers:

Relatable characters and situations
Honest personalities managing profound struggles
Worthy investment - Many readers have told me that they have read my books several times.
A cathartic experience

If you're interested check out my author page and website https://akfrailey.com/

Have a blessed holiday season.


message 321: by Khadijah (new)

Khadijah Ali | 1 comments Hello,
I think the content below is perfect for your bookclub. Check it out!
Thanks – Khadijah


Something Wicked, by Monsignor Jack Myslinski and Michael McKinley, will keep your audience clamoring for more…
Something Wicked is a fast-paced page turner of a thriller, written by a Vatican insider, Monsignor Jack Myslinski, and a Vatican media veteran, Michael McKinley.

About the Book

Sister Maureen O'Connor is a progressive American nun, who believes women should be equal with men in the Roman Catholic Church. At a conference in Jerusalem, Sister Maureen makes her case before a group of nuns-until a bomb explodes in the Pontifical Biblical Institute during her speech and kills Sister Maureen and twelve other nuns.

Who would want to kill Sister Maureen? And why?
This is the question pursued by Sister Marie Therese De Bruyne, the 29-year-old executive director of the Donne del Vaticano, or "women in the Vatican", a group established by Pope Francis to advance the role of women in the Catholic Church. She is helped on her quest to solve the murder by Father Dan Lanaham, a 75-year-old Jesuit who has just been elected superior general of his order, and Jacqueline Brussard, a former student of Dan's who is now a reporter for the Washington Post.

When a terrorist group is blamed for the bombing, a terrorist mysteriously appears with answers. Khalil Khoury is a one-time friend of Dan, and brother of Dan's secret lover, Layla. But that was 40 years ago, and Khalil is here now to point out the bombers' path doesn't lead to the terrorist group but to the Vatican.

* * *

Monsignor Jack Myslinski and Michael McKinley take the reader on a thrilling and dangerous journey into some of the Catholic Church's darkest places, and also shine the brightest of lights on the good people within. The result creates a complex and compelling drama that will entertain a broad range of readers, as the crime is as unique as the characters who must solve it.

* * *
PERFECT BOOK CLUB READ: Set in Rome, Jerusalem, Beirut, and the Vatican City, this globe trotting mystery is filled with a tight-knit ensemble cast of deeply realized characters, a page turner of a thriller that enthralls the reader, a roller-coaster of a murder mystery told through heart-wrenching characters, quick plot turns, and earthy details rendered with brutal honesty.

Availability for Media Engagements

Together or separately, Monsignor Jack Myslinski and Michael McKinley are fantastic guests for your podcasts, interviews, or media events. Their convivial styles, dynamic personalities, and rich storytelling will enliven your broadcast or presentation, sparking witty, insightful, and entertaining conversations about Vatican politics, crime, love, and everything in between.

Social Media

Something Wicked (@something.wicked.book) • Instagram photos and videos

Facebook

Contact Information

For more information, or schedule appearances or interviews, contact:

Khadijah Ali, Book Designer and PR Coordinator, BookGo
Email: [email protected]
To request a Review Copy, contact:
Kurt Lovelace, Publisher and Executive Editor, Pierian Springs Press
[email protected]


message 322: by Björn (new)

Björn Sigurðsson (bjrn_sigursson) | 1 comments Something Wicked

A pager turner of a murder mystery! Like the film “Conclave” it takes the reader into the inner sanctums of the Catholic Church, especially locations within the Vatican, and whose characters bring up question about the institution they serve.

Full Review
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...


message 323: by Katherine (new)

Katherine A. | 1 comments Hello, friends of the Catholic Book Club! I see from the description of this thread that we can promote books and achievements. Last year I nominated my debut novel, The Sower of Black Field, for the group reading list. You might be interested to know that it just won 1st place in the "Catholic Novel" category, and also 1st place for the "Self-published Book" category in the 2025 Catholic Media Awards (https://www.catholicmediaassociation....). It has also won top-of-category awards for Religious Fiction in eight other contests, including the 2024 American Writing Awards, 2024 Reader's Favorite Awards, and 2025 Next Generation Indie Book Awards. Hope this inspires everyone to give it a look :) Peace, and best regards ~ Katherine Koch

The Sower of Black Field: Inspired by the True Story of an American in Nazi Germany


message 324: by Heidi (new)

Heidi Vincent | 2 comments Congratulations @Katherine Koch !!!


message 325: by Michael (last edited Aug 21, 2025 07:26PM) (new)

Michael Parzymieso | 1 comments Greetings,

I am the author of the supernatural thriller, The Dale. It is a novel about the power of faith and friendship and finding hope in the darkest times.

A young woman must decide whether she is losing her mind, as her psychiatrist believes or her soul as her priest fears.

I wanted to write a barn burning page turner of a book that presents our faith in a positive light.

Hope you, like many others have done, enjoy The Dale.


The Dale

https://www.amazon.com/Dale-Michael-P...

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-...


message 326: by Fonch (new)

Fonch | 2423 comments Interesting Mr. Parzymieso 👍👏.


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