Ray Keating's New Book "Cathedral: An Alliance of Saint Michael Novel"

 Cathedral: An Alliance of Saint Michael Novel is Ray Keating’s sixteenth work of fiction, and the first in the Alliance of Saint Michael series. 

The Alliance of Saint Michael brings together men and women with varied backgrounds and talents to work covertly against the two most significant threats to Christianity and civilization at the dawn of the 1930s - communism and fascism.

 

In Moscow, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is going to be obliterated to make way for the Palace of the Soviets. The Alliance of St. Michael readies itself for its first mission – find and salvage a rare item of great significance from the cathedral before the building is lost.

 

Regarding Cathedral…

 

"A stellar depiction of time period and tension. With so many swirling motives and three-dimensional characters in the mix, there is inherent tension for readers, as they eagerly anticipate one of Keating’s classic twists. The depth of historical detail is notable; a good deal of research went into the crafting of this novel, which gives it an authentic and immersive feel. The complex puzzle makes for a page-turning and unpredictable ride, and a firm foundation for Keating’s enticing new series."  - Self-Publishing Review, ★★★★

 

Order the paperbacks, hardcovers and Kindle editions right here!

“Cathedral: An Alliance of Saint Michael Novel” Released by Award-Winning Author Ray Keating

 Cathedral: An Alliance of Saint Michael Novel is a new edge-of-your-seat adventure from Ray Keating. This is his sixteenth work of fiction, and the first in the Alliance of Saint Michael series. 

The Alliance of Saint Michael brings together men and women with varied backgrounds and talents to work covertly against the two most significant threats to Christianity and civilization at the dawn of the 1930s - communism and fascism.

 

In Moscow, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is going to be obliterated to make way for the Palace of the Soviets. The Alliance of St. Michael readies itself for its first mission – find and salvage a rare item of great significance from the cathedral before the building is lost.

 

Cathedral is a work of historical fiction filled with interesting characters that readers will come to care about, nail-biting moments, thrilling action, assorted mysteries and questions, love, danger, friendship, and reflections on God, faith, war, one’s calling in life and more.

 

Ray Keating, who is known for penning 15 Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries (with more coming), said, “I’m excited to introduce new stories and characters set in a time of grave dangers. I found it particularly fascinating to explore how these characters choose to act in a time when Western Civilization is confronted by the challenges of both fascism and communism.”

 

Regarding Ray Keating, Kirkus Reviews calls his books “exhilarating.” Lutheran Book Review says, “I miss Tom Clancy. Keating fills that void for me.” The retired host of KFUO radio’s BookTalk declares, “Ray Keating is a great novelist.”

 

Paperbacks, hardcovers and the Kindle edition of Cathedral are available at Amazon.com, and signed books at www.RayKeatingOnline.com. 

 

Review copies, and author interviews and appearances are available upon request. 

 

Contact: Ray Keating

Phone: 631-909-1122

E-mail: raykeating@keatingreports.com

Your Next Reading Obsession - Ray Keating's Pastor Stephen Grant Series!

 Looking for your next great series obsession? Dive into Ray Keating’s Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries. Or if already a reader of these page-turners, make sure you’re caught up.

Stephen Grant, pastor at St. Mary’s Lutheran Church on Long Island, former Navy SEAL and onetime CIA operative, came on the thriller/mystery scene in Warrior Monk: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel. During 15 books in the series so far, readers come to see that Grant didn’t fully leave his old life behind. He often must wrestle with how his current work as a pastor intersects with his former life with the CIA. With a wide-ranging group of recurring characters – from his days with the Agency to his parish work – the reader is treated to action, suspense, humor, various relationships, faith, love, adventure, mystery, and opportunities for reflection and discussion.

 

Kirkus Reviews has called Ray Keating’s Pastor Stephen Grant “an engaging and multifaceted character” and “a consistently entertaining hero.” Lutheran Book Review says, “I miss Tom Clancy. Keating fills that void for me.” The retired host of KFUO radio’s BookTalk declares, “Ray Keating is a great novelist.” David Keene of The Washington Times calls these novels “great reads.”  And another reviewer observes, “How I'd love to see Pastor Grant on Netflix!” 

 

In an article titled “If James Bond Became a Pastor” covering Ray Keating’s Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers/mysteries series, author and columnist Gene Veith noted, “Mr. Keating knows how to tell an exciting story. And these books, like the James Bond novels, are ridiculously entertaining.”

 

And the “Book Series in Order” website declares, “Many noteworthy critics have given rave reviews to books of the series and have applauded the efforts of author Ray Keating in coming up with such an exciting series and unique character… The worldwide success of this series helped Ray Keating in establishing himself in the ranks of the noteworthy authors of the spy thriller/espionage genre.”

 

Paperbacks and Kindle editions of all 15 books, and counting, are available at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08SW8HB34?binding=paperback&ref=dbs_dp_rwt_sb_tpbk

 

Signed books at www.raykeatingonline.com

 

Enjoy National Superhero Day with HEROES AND VILLAINS: A PASTOR STEPHEN GRANT SHORT STORY!

 

In HEROES AND VILLAINS by award-winning novelist Ray Keating, Stephen Grant, the Lutheran pastor, onetime Navy SEAL and former CIA operative, must confront violence springing from a toxic mix of pop culture and ideological extremism. Grant finds himself in an entirely unfamiliar setting – a comic book, science fiction and fantasy convention. But he still joins forces with a unique set of heroes in an attempt to foil a villainous plot against one of the all-time great comic book writers and artists. Reviewers love the adventure...

Kirkus Reviews says, "In this short story, Keating's recurring cleric Stephen Grant steps up to help a popular comic-book creator targeted by armed assailants... When kidnappers eventually abduct someone, Stephen is quickly on their trail, and he has plenty of help--a convention's worth of superheroes. The series' protagonist remains a man of action even though the story isn't novel-length... An entertaining, immersive jaunt with a formidable protagonist."

 

And Self-Publishing Review declares, "Keating manages to instill the same suspense of his other epic thrillers into this unlikely little gem. As he always does, Pastor Grant brings bravado and humility to the table at the same time, instilling the book with morality, action and thought-provoking revelations from start to finish. Keating's creativity and storytelling ability remain on point, for a fun and different take on Pastor Grant, and one that's just as satisfying as longer books in the series."

 

Jacob Airey, host of StudioJake , declares, “This is a fantastic novel... If you are a comic book fan who is fed up with the political correctness that’s going on, you have got to pick up Heroes and Villains... I highly recommend this book... I’m definitely going to be paying more attention to Ray Keating, and getting more of his novels.”

Paperbacks and for the Kindle at Amazon.com. 

Pastor Stephen Grant Thrillers & Mysteries in Order!

 While you don’t have to read the Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries in order, there is a plus to doing so. Therefore, here is the reading order of the books so far – with more to come! Enjoy! By the way, Paperback and Kindle editions are at Amazon.com, and signed books at RayKeatingOnline.com.

 

1) Warrior Monk: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating

 

Warrior Monk revolves around a former CIA assassin, Stephen Grant, who has lived a far different, relatively quiet life as a parish pastor in recent years. However, a shooting at his church, a historic papal proposal, and threats to the pope's life mean that Grant's former and current lives collide. Grant must tap the varied skills learned as a government agent, a theologian and a pastor not only to protect the pope, but also to feel his way through a minefield of personal challenges. The second edition of Warrior Monk includes a new Introduction by Ray Keating, as well as a new Epilogue that points to an upcoming Pastor Stephen Grant novel.

 

2) Root of All Evil? A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating

 

Do God, politics and money mix? In Root of All Evil?, the combination can turn out quite deadly. Keating introduced readers to Stephen Grant, a former CIA operative and current parish pastor, in the fun and highly praised Warrior Monk. Now, Grant is back in Root of All Evil? It’s a breathtaking thriller involving drug traffickers, politicians, the CIA and FBI, a shadowy foreign regime, the Church, and money. Charity, envy and greed are on display. Throughout, action runs high.

 

3) An Advent for Religious Liberty: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating

 

Advent and Christmas approach. It’s supposed to be a special season for Christians. But it’s different this time in New York City. Religious liberty is under assault. The Catholic Church has been called a “hate group.” And it’s the newly elected mayor of New York City who has set off this religious and political firestorm. Some people react with prayer – others with violence and murder. Stephen Grant, former CIA operative turned pastor, faces deadly challenges during what becomes known as “An Advent for Religious Liberty.” Grant works with the cardinal who leads the Archdiocese of New York, the FBI, current friends, and former CIA colleagues to fight for religious liberty, and against dangers both spiritual and physical.

 

4) The River: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating

 

Some refer to Las Vegas as Sin City. But the sins being committed in The River are not what one might typically expect. Rather, it’s about murder. Stephen Grant once used lethal skills for the Navy SEALs and the CIA. Now, years later, he’s a pastor. How does this man of action and faith react when his wife is kidnapped, a deep mystery must be untangled, and both allies and suspects from his CIA days arrive on the scene? How far can Grant go – or will he go – to save the woman he loves? Will he seek justice or revenge, and can he tell the difference any longer? 

 

5) Murderer’s Row: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating

 

How do rescuing a Christian family from the clutches of Islamic terrorists, minor league baseball in New York, a string of grisly murders, sordid politics, and a pastor, who once was a Navy SEAL and CIA operative, tie together? Murderer’s Row is the fifth Pastor Stephen Grant novel, and Keating serves up fascinating characters, gripping adventure, and a tangled murder mystery, along with faith, politics, humor, and, yes, baseball.

 

6) Wine Into Water: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating

 

Blood, wine, sin, justice and forgiveness… Who knew the wine business could be so sordid and violent? That’s what happens when it's infiltrated by counterfeiters.  A pastor, once a Navy SEAL and CIA operative, is pulled into action to help unravel a mystery involving fake wine, murder and revenge. Stephen Grant is called to take on evil, while staying rooted in his life as a pastor.

 

7) Lionhearts: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating

 

War has arrived on American soil, with Islamic terrorists using new tactics. Few are safe, including Christians, politicians, and the media. Pastor Stephen Grant taps into his past with the Navy SEALS and the CIA to help wage a war of flesh and blood, ideas, history, and beliefs. This is about defending both the U.S. and Christianity.

 

8) Reagan Country: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating

 

Could President Ronald Reagan’s influence reach into the former “evil empire”? The media refers to a businessman on the rise as “Russia’s Reagan.” Unfortunately, others seek a return to the old ways, longing for Russia’s former “greatness.” The dispute becomes deadly. Conflict stretches from the Reagan Presidential Library in California to the White House to a Russian Orthodox monastery to the Kremlin. Stephen Grant, pastor at St. Mary’s Lutheran Church on Long Island, a former Navy SEAL and onetime CIA operative, stands at the center of the tumult.

 

9) Heroes and Villains: A Pastor Stephen Grant Short Story by Ray Keating

 

As a onetime Navy SEAL, a former CIA operative and a pastor, many people call Stephen Grant a hero. At various times defending the Christian Church and the United States over the years, he has journeyed across the nation and around the world. But now Grant finds himself in an entirely unfamiliar setting – a comic book, science fiction and fantasy convention. But he still joins forces with a unique set of heroes in an attempt to foil a villainous plot against one of the all-time great comic book writers and artists.

 

10) Shifting Sands: A Pastor Stephen Grant Short Story by Ray Keating

 

Beach volleyball is about fun, sun and sand. But when a big-time tournament arrives on a pier in New York City, danger and international intrigue are added to the mix. Stephen Grant, a former Navy SEAL, onetime CIA operative, and current pastor, is on the scene with his wife, friends and former CIA colleagues. While battles on the volleyball court play out, deadly struggles between good and evil are engaged on and off the sand. 

 

11) Deep Rough: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating

 

One man faces challenges as a pastor in China. His son has become a breakout phenom in the world of professional golf. The Chinese government is displeased with both, and their lives are in danger. Stephen Grant – a onetime Navy SEAL, former CIA operative and current pastor – has a history with the communist Chinese, while also claiming a pretty solid golf game. His unique experience and skills unexpectedly put him alongside old friends; at some of golf’s biggest tournaments as a caddy and bodyguard; and in the middle of an international struggle over Christian persecution, a mission of revenge, and a battle between good and evil.

 

12) The Traitor: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating

 

Stephen Grant – former Navy SEAL, onetime CIA operative and current pastor – looks forward to a time of prayer and reflection during a retreat at a monastery in Europe. But when he stumbles upon an infamous CIA traitor in a small village, Grant’s plans change dramatically. While a debate rages over government secrets and the intelligence community, a deadly race for survival is underway. From a pro-democracy demonstration in Hong Kong to the CIA’s headquarters in Langley to a monastery in France, the action and intrigue never let up.

 

13) Vatican Shadows: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel by Ray Keating

 

More than 500 years ago, two men – Jan Hus and Martin Luther – tried to bring about change in the Catholic Church. They suffered, with one burned at the stake. Could a modern-day pope transform these reformers from heretics to heroes in the eyes of the Catholic Church? Shadowy figures inside and outside the Vatican oppose Pope Paul VII’s efforts, and stand willing to do anything to stop him. For help, the pope turns to Stephen Grant, a Lutheran pastor, former Navy SEAL and onetime CIA operative.

 

14) Past Lives: A Pastor Stephen Grant Short Story by Ray Keating

 

Torn from pages of his own journal, Pastor Stephen Grant tells about threats, murder and puzzling people from his past. It’s a compelling mystery involving action, unexpected turns, lost innocence, sought-after perspective, and twisted revenge. This is the first Pastor Stephen Grant story told from Grant’s own viewpoint, unfolding each day in the pages of his journal.

 

 

15) What’s Lost? A Pastor Stephen Grant Short Story by Ray Keating

 

From the pages of his own journal, Pastor Stephen Grant tells a riveting mystery involving deception, betrayal, sacrifice and friendship, along with plenty of action and questions about what we truly can know about others. Grant takes us on a personal journey across decades and around the world, from Long Island to Vietnam. This is the second Pastor Stephen Grant story told from Grant’s own viewpoint, unfolding each day in the pages of his journal.

 

Paperback and Kindle editions are at Amazon.com, and signed books at RayKeatingOnline.com.

 

Easter Sale on Ray Keating's Books

 

Easter Sale at www.RayKeatingOnline.com! Save 15% on Signed Editions of Ray Keating’s Books! 

Save on any or all of the Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries. Save on pre-ordering Ray’s new novel Cathedral: An Alliance of Saint Michael Novel. Save on Ray’s books on the economy and business, including pre-ordering The Weekly Economist: 52 Quick Reads to Help You Think Like an Economist. Save on everything! 

Use coupon code “Easter15” at checkout. Sale ends on April 19th! Go to www.RayKeatingOnline.com. 

Book Excerpt from "Heroes and Villains" by Ray Keating

 

From Heroes and Villains: A Pastor Stephen Grant Short Story by Ray Keating…

 

Stephen opened the door, and welcomed the Nodells into the house. Introductions were made, and Stephen and Jennifer invited the couple to take a quick tour of the house.

Diane commented, “You have a lovely home.”

“Thank you,” responded Jennifer.

After a brief pause, Guy asked, “Okay, are you two ready?”

Stephen said, “I am, but Jennifer is in the dark.”

Guy said, “That’s awesome that you were able to keep this secret.”

“Thanks.”

Jennifer looked at her husband, raised an eyebrow, and said, “Stephen.”

“Right, it’s time. Come on.”

The four stopped at the closed front door. Guy, Diane and Stephen were beaming. And then Stephen opened the door.

Jennifer stepped outside and saw the car that the Nodells had delivered. It was a red 1957 Thunderbird with its top down. Jennifer stood still and put a hand over her mouth.

Guy asked, “This is the one, right? Stephen said that growing up you were a big fan of the TV show Vega$ with Robert Urich.”

Jennifer still didn’t move or reply.

 

Grab paperbacks and Kindle edition via Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DGLBWZM and signed books at https://raykeatingonline.com/products/heroes-and-villains-a-pastor-stephen-grant-short-story

 

New Fiction Series Starting from Ray Keating

Ray Keating is the author of fifteen Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries, and the first novel in a new series is on the way!

 

First, consider starting or catching up on Ray Keating’s Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries. 

Stephen Grant, pastor at St. Mary’s Lutheran Church on Long Island, former Navy SEAL and onetime CIA operative, came on the thriller/mystery scene in Warrior Monk: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel. During 15 books in the series so far, readers come to see that Grant didn’t fully leave his old life behind. He often must wrestle with how his current work as a pastor intersects with his former life with the CIA. With a wide-ranging group of recurring characters – from his days with the Agency to his parish work – the reader is treated to action, suspense, humor, various relationships, faith, love, adventure, mystery, and opportunities for reflection and discussion.

 

About Keating and his Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries, Kirkus Reviews simply says “exhilarating.” Lutheran Book Review says, “I miss Tom Clancy. Keating fills that void for me.” The retired host of KFUO radio’s BookTalk declares, “Ray Keating is a great novelist.” David Keene of The Washington Times calls these novels “great reads.”  And another reviewer observes, “How I'd love to see Pastor Grant on Netflix!” 

 

In an article titled “If James Bond Became a Pastor” covering Ray Keating’s Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers/mysteries series, author and columnist Gene Veith noted, “Mr. Keating knows how to tell an exciting story. And these books, like the James Bond novels, are ridiculously entertaining.”

 

By the way, signed books are at www.RayKeatingOnline.com. 

 

Second, please consider pre-ordering Ray’s new novel – CATHEDRAL: AN ALLIANCE OF SAINT MICHAEL NOVEL.

Yes, CATHEDRAL is Ray Keating’s sixteenth work of fiction, and the first in the Alliance of Saint Michael series. 

 

The Alliance of Saint Michael brings together men and women with varied backgrounds and talents to work covertly against the two most significant threats to Christianity and civilization at the dawn of the 1930s - communism and fascism.

 

In Moscow, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is going to be obliterated to make way for the Palace of the Soviets. The Alliance of St. Michael readies itself for its first mission – find and salvage a rare item of great significance from the cathedral before the building is lost.

By the way, signed books are at www.RayKeatingOnline.com.

Pre-Order Ray Keating's New Book "The Weekly Economist"

 Pre-Order Ray Keating’s New Book Today – The Weekly Economist: 52 Quick Reads to Help You Think Like an Economist – Signed by the Author – Pre-Order Here!  

If you don’t have a degree in economics, how do you figure out what actually makes economic sense and what doesn’t? Ray Keating, a leading economist on small business and entrepreneurship, offers help with a new book titled The Weekly Economist: 52 Quick Reads to Help You Think Like an Economist.

 

Whether via CNBC, CNN, FOX, websites, or other outlets, many assertions regarding the economy and economic policy are presented that leave people wondering what’s accurate and what’s not. That’s especially the case when declarations by one talking head are conflicted by the next one. The Weekly Economist offers quick reads on topics essential to thinking clearly on economics, or apply sound economic principles to hot topics.

 

Ray Keating writes, “Yes, economics and thinking more like an economist matter. It is my hope that individuals, by taking just a few minutes for a quick read each week, can clarify their thinking on economics, and thereby, improve their own lives, and the lives of family, friends, colleagues, neighbors, as well as people across the nation and around the world."

 

Praise for Ray Keating’s work…

 

“Keating is at his best when tackling the issue that introduced him to the world of conservative thought: the benefits of the free market.”  - Kirkus Reviews

 

“Keating is no sour-puss conservative... Keating’s pro-growth agenda of dramatic supply-side tax and regulatory cuts, school choice, and much smaller government stands as New York’s only chance at rebirth.”  - Steve Forbes

 

Ray Keating's "take on the economy is unabashedly supply-side, offering a clear understanding that risk taking and entrepreneurship are the engines of economic growth.” - Jack Kemp

 

Three Chances to Win The Lutheran Planner!

 Sign up for the Ray Keating Books and More newsletter to enter for three chances to win THE LUTHERAN PLANNER 2022: THE TO DO LIST SOLUTION. There’s still plenty of time to get organized, while keeping proper perspective. Daily reflections from Holy Scripture and Christian thinkers provide encouragement, inspiration and consolation. Also, it comes with a handy spiral binding for easy use. THREE winners will be selected!

Enter by emailing Ray Keating at raykeating@keatingreports.com and write LUTHERAN in the subject line.

 

We'll use your information for sweepstakes entry, and to send you the latest news and updates about Ray Keating’s books, including the Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries. Sign up before the close of April 15, 2022.

 

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Enter between 12:01 AM (ET) on 3/16/2022 and 11:59 PM (ET) on 4/15/2022. Open to residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia who are 18+. Winner will be selected at random on or about 4/16/2022. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received.

Enter by emailing Ray Keating at raykeating@keatingreports.com and write LUTHERAN in the subject line.

Chance to Win Pastor Stephen Grant Lutheran-Catholic Trilogy

 

Sign up for the Ray Keating Books and More newsletter to enter for a chance to win the Pastor Stephen Grant Lutheran-Catholic thriller trilogy – signed copies of WARRIOR MONK, THE TRAITOR and VATICAN SHADOWS. Just go to https://raykeatingonline.com/contact.

Fantasy and Sci-Fi Author Brandon Sanderson’s Wild Kickstarter Success

PRESS CLUB C Podcast with Ray Keating – Episode #78: Brandon Sanderson’s Wild Kickstarter Success – Fantasy and sci-fi author Brandon Sanderson’s incredibly successful Kickstarter campaign should be celebrated by authors and readers. And yes, there are plenty of lessons for writers and other entrepreneurs to take away from Sanderson’s campaign. Tune in now!

Pastor Stephen Grant Rooting for the Cincinnati Bengals

 Pastor Stephen Grant was born and raised in the Cincinnati area. And yes, he is a Bengals fan, and excited about Sunday’s AFC Championship game against the Chiefs.

Here are a few Bengals moments from the Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries…

 

      A couple of hours later, Grant was sitting on the couch in the plane’s cabin next to Jessica West. On the other side of him, Chase Axelrod was in a separate seat. They were gathered in front of a large screen, with the Super Bowl kickoff just a few minutes away. 

      Axelrod asked, “Do you have a dog in this fight, Stephen?” 

      “No, unfortunately, I’m a Bengals fan.”
      “Bengals?”
      Grant nodded. “I grew up in the Cincinnati area. The Reds and Bengals are in my blood, you could say. What about you two?” He glanced at Axelrod and West. 

 

- from Reagan Country

 

      After slipping on a pair of dark sweatpants, a t-shirt, a hoodie with a zip front, and a Cincinnati Bengals knit hat, with a rather wild pom-pom sitting atop, he stepped out the front door of St. Mark’s parsonage. Fortunately, the crisp air was unusually still for early February. Grant stretched, and in a few minutes, was at full stride. 

 

- from Lionhearts

 

      The relative quiet of their discussion was broken by Stephen bolting upright on the couch, disturbing Jennifer’s head that had been resting on his shoulder. “Go, yes, go!” 

      Everyone in the room turned to look at the television screen that had captured Stephen’s attention. The Bengals kick returner found a hole, faked around two members of the Seahawks special teams, and now was sprinting by Seattle’s helpless kicker to return the second half kickoff 104 yards for a touchdown. 

 

- from An Advent for Religious Liberty

 

      Glenn asked Jennifer, “Does he always sulk like this?” 

      “Actually, Glenn, the only time my take-the-hill husband sulks is when it comes to the Reds and Bengals.” 

      Stephen smiled, kissed Jennifer on the cheek, and said, “True enough.” 

 

- from Wine Into Water

 

Reviewers Bestow Accolades on the Pastor Stephen Grant Thrillers & Mysteries! A Unique Series Featuring a Former Navy SEAL, Onetime CIA Operative and Now a Lutheran Pastor

 

Kirkus Reviews has called Ray Keating’s Pastor Stephen Grant “an engaging and multifaceted character” and “a consistently entertaining hero.” Lutheran Book Review says, “I miss Tom Clancy. Keating fills that void for me.” The retired host of KFUO radio’s BookTalk declares, “Ray Keating is a great novelist.” David Keene of The Washington Times calls these novels “great reads.”  Another reviewer observes, “How I'd love to see Pastor Grant on Netflix!” 

 

And BookSeriesinOrder.com declares, “Many noteworthy critics have given rave reviews to books of the series and have applauded the efforts of author Ray Keating in coming up with such an exciting series and unique character. Ray Keating has also received praise from his fellow writers for his mind-blowing work in the series. The first book of the series has succeeded in making it to the top 10 self-published books of the year by the World magazine. Other novels also followed and achieved great success. The worldwide success of this series helped Ray Keating in establishing himself in the ranks of the noteworthy authors of the spy thriller/espionage genre.”

 

And in an article titled “If James Bond Became a Pastor,” author and columnist Gene Veith notes, “Mr. Keating knows how to tell an exciting story. And these books, like the James Bond novels, are ridiculously entertaining. As for larger themes, there is vocation, of course. I see these books as honoring the pastoral ministry. Because in real life, pastors are heroes engaged in saving the world.”

 

Finally, in a 5-star Amazon review: “I've had the pleasure of reading four of the Pastor Stephen Grant novels, with others on my nightstand waiting to be read. I've thoroughly enjoyed reading each of these books thus far, with The River being my absolute favorite as of this writing. But I would be remiss if I did not give props to Warrior Monk, the first book in the series. Honestly, I was intrigued by the basic concept. A CIA operative turned Lutheran pastor finding himself being pulled back to his old skills seems to blend the James Bond thrillers with the Father Brown stories penned by G K Chesterton. Keating combines interesting theological concepts with action and personal interest, all the while taking the time to engage the reader with current events filtered through a Christian perspective. These elements come together to create a pitch-perfect novel, and as a fledgling author myself, I am envious that I hadn't written it first.” 

 

15 page-turners and counting…

Feast of St. Ambrose and WARRIOR MONK

Today, December 7, we give thanks for St. Ambrose of Milan, born in AD 340. Much of the action in WARRIOR MONK: A PASTOR STEPHEN GRANT NOVEL takes place at the St. Ambrose Retreat House on Long Island’s North Shore. Here’s an excerpt from the book with Pastor Grant and Pope Augustine:

 

     

Grant was now following the pope, his aides and security entourage up the staircase in the castle’s main lobby. 

     Augustine stopped at the statue of St. Ambrose, and gazed at it. As this continued for several seconds, a silence descended in the large chamber. The pope said, “He was interesting, St. Ambrose. During a tumultuous time of disagreement in the latter part of the fourth century, he tried to keep peace among Christians in Milan. And he was not even baptized when clergy and the people called for him to become the bishop. He did not want the job, but finally acquiesced, was baptized, and eight days later became the bishop. He would be one of the great Latin Doctors of the Church. And as we talk about the Church’s role in the public arena now, it is worth recalling that Ambrose previously was a lawyer and politician who came to be a powerful voice in the Church for celibacy and voluntary poverty. If that happened today, few, I think, would doubt the transformative power of faith in our Lord.” The pope smiled, and most everyone else joined in with his infectious laugh. 

     That would be a miracle [thought Grant.]

     With Cardinal Santos leading the way, the pope continued up the stairs to the left of Ambrose…

 

Grab WARRIOR MONK and the rest of the Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries here.

Hearing from Real-Life Pastor Stephen Grants

PRESS CLUB C Podcast with Ray Keating – Episode #66 (Book Stuff 2): Hearing from “Pastor Stephen Grants”? – Ray talks about people he has heard from who have experiences rather similar to the life of the fictional Pastor Stephen Grant – the former Navy SEAL, onetime CIA operative, and now a pastor. 

“The Lutheran Planner 2022: The TO DO List Solution” Helps With Getting Organized, While Keeping Proper Perspective

 Daily Reflections from Holy Scripture and Christian Thinkers Provide Encouragement, Inspiration and Consolation from the Christian Faith

We all need to get things done each day, and plan our coming week, month or year. At the same time, each of us needs to keep such matters in proper perspective. The Lutheran Planner 2022: The To Do List Solution is meant to be a tool in this ongoing endeavor. And, no, you don't have to be a Lutheran to use this planner!

 

Get organized and set goals using Ray Keating’s TO DO List Solution, while enjoying and reflecting upon quotes from Holy Scripture, Church fathers, and other Christian thinkers. In addition, feasts, festivals and commemorations throughout the Church year are marked.

 

The Lutheran Planner 2022: The To Do List Solution combines a simple, powerful system for getting things done – using monthly, weekly and daily to-do lists – with encouragement, inspiration and consolation from the Christian faith. 

 

The Lutheran Planner 2022: The To Do List Solution comes with a handy spiral binding for easy use, and is available at https://raykeatingonline.com/products/lutheranplanner2022.

 

Ray Keating, who also is the author of the Pastor Stephen Grant thrillers and mysteries, explains: “We all seem to be busy these days no matter what happens to be our calling or vocation in life. As a Christian – of the Lutheran variety – I try to stay on track with daily devotional readings and prayer. Unfortunately, I often falter along the way. The various quotes each day in this planner help, giving me pause for further reflection.”

 

Keating adds, “Using ‘The TO DO List Solution’ also provides benefits by requiring reflection on goals; prioritization; being more realistic about time management; and serious thought on how to best get things done.”

 

The Lutheran Planner 2022: The TO DO List Solution is one of two TO DO List Solution 2022 planners from Ray Keating. The other is The Disney Planner 2022: The TO DO List Solution.

 

Review copies, and author interviews and appearances are available upon request. 

 

Contact: Ray Keating

E-mail: raykeating@keatingreports.com

Facebook: @FreeEnterpriseEconomics 

Twitter: @KeatingNovels

RayKeatingOnline.com

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Get caught up this fall on all of the Pastor Stephen Grant adventures? Paperbacks and Kindle editions at Amazon via https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08P1S5R26 and signed books at www.raykeatingonline.com.

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Get caught up this fall on all of the Pastor Stephen Grant adventures? Paperbacks and Kindle editions at Amazon via https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08P1S5R26 and signed books at www.raykeatingonline.com.