Tag Archives: inspirational catholic novel

New Release: The Rose and the Sword

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New inspirational novel just released by award-winning Catholic author Gina Marinello-Sweeney!

The Rose and the Sword (The Veritas Chronicles, Volume 2)
by Gina Marinello-Sweeney

Can a rose survive in winter?

Rebecca Veritas is a new college graduate, eager to pursue her dreams as a clinical psychologist. As she adjusts to her new surroundings in the big city of Los Angeles, she finds solace in a mysterious antique bookstore. Yet, as her thoughts still linger on someone from her past, she is unaware that the present has the potential to haunt her the most.

As time passes, a growing sense of unease quickly transitions into more disturbing events that make her question if all is as it seems. When circumstances take an eerie turn, Rebecca will find herself a player on a larger scale than she had ever anticipated, a scale that could cause one to pay the ultimate price.

In this riveting sequel to I Thirst (2013 YATR Literary Award for Best Prologue), the adventures of Rebecca Veritas, the young, introspective dreamer with an inclination towards random insanity, continue.

The Rose and the Sword is available in paperback.

Book Review: Stay With Me

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Stay With Me by Carolyn Astfalk is a poignant and believable
love story about two young adults from very different backgrounds.

Rebecca has lived a sheltered life under her domineering father in an alcohol-free home where dancing is frowned upon and religion is oppressive, not inspiring. Weighed down by her past, Rebecca is hesitant to live life fully. Chris, a Harley-rider and a new convert to Catholicism, opens up a beautiful new world to her. Still, life isn’t without dangers and trials as the new couple navigate their blossoming romance. Kind hearts and good intentions aren’t always enough, especially when faced with heart-rending challenges and temptations. When tested to the limit, will their love survive?

The characters are richly depicted and memorable, including the secondary characters. I particularly enjoyed Rebecca’s brash sister Abby, with her unrestrained opinions and off-beat ways. Also, I appreciated how Father John, despite being a priest, came across as a very real person with his owns trials and tribulations.

The story is sprinkled with humor and contains the perfect balance of reality and sweetness—and sometimes bittersweetness. The author deftly avoids sappy clichés, and her writing entertains while radiating substance and depth.

Stay With Me is a journey of discovery, forgiveness, and redemption—a beautiful journey of two hearts that long to beat as one.

Stay With Me is available in paperback and as a Kindle ebook.