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Redwing Saga #3
The Blood Is the Life
Mary Kelly’s body is discovered, and a new Shadow arises in the east; a monster with a ravenous appetite for human blood. This ancient Vampire challenges Redwing’s leadership, causing fractures that erupt into civil war. At Queen Anne House, the wedding day approaches, but treason within the inner circle threatens to destroy all their lives. Charles Sinclair continues to experience supernatural encounters, and Paul Stuart faces a test of faith. After considering suicide, Ida Ross finds a gallant champion, but is her protector more than just a man? Mr. Thirteen escapes Castor Asylum, and a Redwing loyalist defects. Will their confessions help Charles and Paul prevent disaster on Beth’s wedding day? The clock is ticking towards a final showdown between good and evil. Who will remain standing on November eighteenth?
490 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 25, 2017
33 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
June 21, 2019
Well written Christian based book.
Good Christian themed adventure. Sharon Gilbert has done her homework. I look forward to reading the next installment of this series. Gets better each book!
Good Christian themed adventure. Sharon Gilbert has done her homework. I look forward to reading the next installment of this series. Gets better each book!
November 22, 2018
Great story!
Well written. Attention grabbing drama! I loved it & the first 2 books in the series. Sharon is imaginative & a great story teller!
Well written. Attention grabbing drama! I loved it & the first 2 books in the series. Sharon is imaginative & a great story teller!
April 19, 2019
Make sure you have plenty of time to read.
Wait to start this until you a full day or a weekend to read this wild ride of a book.
Wait to start this until you a full day or a weekend to read this wild ride of a book.
December 31, 2024
The title of this book, "The blood is the life" comes from the biblical scripture, Leviticus 17:10–12. We learn that blood was God’s ordained means of man's atonement. Blood is the symbol of life had to be treated with honor. Christ Jesus' blood is the life that was given so that we might have eternal life. This redemptive power of His (Jesus') blood is accepted by His believers. It is an accepted truth that believers in Jesus Christ are cleansed, forgiven, made right with God, and freed from the power of sin through the shed blood of the spotless Lamb of God. It is these truths that form the basis of this Christian fiction novel.
In Sharon K. Gilbert's third book in this series, she continues the saga of the soon-t0-be-wed, Sir/Lord Charles Sinclair, the Marquess of Haimsbury & the Duchess of Branham, Lady Elizabeth 'Beth' who are still targeted by the sinister organization, Red Wing led by the demonic shape-shifting, Sir William "Wolf' Trent (aka Sir Daniel Outerbridge) whose true identity is a mystery. Trent still seeks to undermine the upcoming marriage even after having failed twice before to claim Beth. Lord Paul Stuart (of) Aubrey also returns as the noble but flawed friend with foes to conquer and appetites to control. Also returning are: Aunt Victoria (Tory), Charles aunt & mother-figure; Martin Kepelheim, the loyal family tailor/hypnotist/historian/astronomer/linguist; Reginald Whitmore, the dedicated family physician/ancient language expert/chemist; and Edward McPherson, a clergyman, scholar/soldier, and Christian demonologist. The demonic duo of the ghostly Prince Razarit Nicolescu Cojocaru Lupei Grigor (aka Rasha), and his nephew, the shadowy and menacing Prince Anatole Romanov (whose true identity is that of a fallen angelic being) also return. They are once again committed to their diabolical game plan against the divine-led Inner Circle Intelligence (ICI) and The Circle whose leadership wants Charles in a leadership role. A new character, Ida Renee Ross, a streetwise 'lady of the evening" becomes the focus of a new 'patron', Prince Anatole Romanov, a shadowy figure who wants to 'protect' Ida, is also prominent in the evolving battle. Another new character is a demonic shape-shifter (aka Mary Kelly) who serves Sir William Trent. Lorena Melissa MacKey (aka Elaine) is a doctor & black witch who is spying for Romanov. Susana Morgan is another of Trent's operatives. Sir Albert Wendaway, Charles' cousin is shadowy member of the court whose intentions are questionable. Raziel the Ancient is one of the Seven who comes against the detective. Finally, there is the mysterious and shadowy character of Mr. Thirteen, a patient of Castor Asylum and connected to Trent. The players and stage are set for the next challenging chapter of the engrossing series.
********************* SPOILERS ****************
Mrs. Gilbert packs her novel with hybrid creatures, Watchers (high-ranking demons), Red Wing minions, despicable gutter denizens, and nobility. The gigantic and monstruous creature seen by the Beth the duchess becomes central to the developing dark tale. The author's introduction of two hybrids (Razarit and Rasha) and two major angels of God, Shelumiel and Samael adds to the ever-growing battle between good and evil. There are dark allusions to demonic summoning and possessions which the author handles with a deft hand. The tie-in to the Jack the Ripper murders and the suspicion that the Ripper is a 'dybuuk' (a disembodied demonic spirit in the Jewish belief) adds another level of menace. This of course would mean that the Ripper was of the Jewish faith but driven to commit evil acts by supernatural forces. I found this to be of future significance in the engrossing novel. The author mixes enough suspense and terror into the criminal investigations and secret societal master plan for two novels. I applaud her developing mastery and maturity in this third novel.
What stood out for me, personally was the delicate balance between operating in this world while battling on the spiritual plane. The author adds layers of reality to the spiritual warfare by bringing in such details as an animal's sensitivity to an evil presence in the form of Samson's (Tory's dog) barking before an evil event, Bella, another dog's reaction to certain people, and the mysterious death (through massive blood loss and bacterial liver infection) of Beth's prized stallion and mare. There is also the death of a loyal servant of the Sinclair household who is possessed at the time of her death. The criminal evil element is countered by police officer, Edmund Reid and Commissioner Monro whose diligence reveals that Redwing's has been targeting Beth & her parents; targeting Charles' family; and connected with several unsolved crimes, including the Ripper's crimes. On the spiritual warfare plane is prayer warrior efforts of Mrs. Alcorn, the housekeeper and Reverend McPherson.
This novel is definitely darker as the author recalls previous violence like the murder of Duchess Patricia in 1879; Trent's blood-thirsty hybrids preying on animals and humans; the growing menace of winged bat-like creatures that operate in defiance of Trent. Two of these latter-mentioned creatures (Raziel and Saraquel, i.e., Sara, an ancient vampire) have their own agenda. There is also a revelation about Beth that ramps up Trent's efforts and Charles Sinclair's protective stance. As the supernatural events increase, Beth's secret becomes harder to conceal even with Paul's involvement.
The human relationships also play a major role: Paul and Charles become closer; Beth's cousin, Della gets closer to Beth; and Dr. Kepler and Dr. Alexander Collins' relationship becomes strained. Mrs. Gilbert's heart for family is evident in her characters' family and faith ties. This aspect of the novel is a huge reason why this novel works well. The author also fleshes out the role and importance of The Circle group's individual members. These societal leaders and people of faith (especially Lady Louisa Gilmore) play important roles in Charles' development and importance. They also uncover traitors and dispatch the threats to Charles and Beth. Charles Sinclair's aunt, Lady Victoria provides familial love and support for him and his second chance at marriage and a future family with Beth. Dr. Michael Emerson, Beth's doctor reveals medical information about Beth's mother, Patricia that will impact Beth and that Beth has a sibling. We also learn about Beth's parents (Connor and Patricia) whose marriage suffered and a tragic death. The mysterious role of Moira Stopes, a former household employee holds the key to the mystery surrounding Beth's parents.
The author brings her tale to several climaxes in a build-up to the final one. The attempts by Trent; the violent Jack the Ripper murders; the revelation of Trent's intimate involvement with the Stuart family, starting Robert Stuart (11th Earl) to Connor, his son (12th Earl) to Charles (the ne Earl); the appearance of demonic creatures; regular spiritual and physical attacks by Trent (in alternate forms) and his minions/operatives on Beth; and deaths all lead to a violent climax with the demonic horde. The author presents a dark history of historical events as orchestrated by secret societies (The Arcadians, the Round Table, Lords of the Black Stone). It is also made clear that Charles Stuart is sought by Redwing because of his ancestry and bloodlines. He is to be theirs to control as a 'puppet king' for their dark plan of world domination. But, the Watchers have a different. The internal conflict between Redwing and the Watchers provides two 'jokers' in the card game of survival - one turns to good while another hides his dark connection. The forces of evil and good are like two armies, replete with generals, foot soldiers, spies, and subterfuge. The author also throws in betrayal among the enemy which is what does happen for they are not of a united reason. In doing this, the author shows that the enemy is impotent in the face of the faithful and those aligned with the Lord.
The novel/serial drama wraps up in a manner that sets up the next book in the series. The forces of good thwart attacks that leave them wary and exhausted but faithful. The forces of evil grow desperate and quarrel among themselves. The day of the wedding in the presence of high royalty (including those aligned with The Circle and Redwing) serves as the precursor to the climax. An unexpected player enters the final act of arrogance, covetousness, and desperation. This sets up the next book.
Overall, this novel elevates the series to a higher level for many reasons. It was an exciting and thrilling reading adventure with plenty of surprises and colorful characters. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction and fantasy.
In Sharon K. Gilbert's third book in this series, she continues the saga of the soon-t0-be-wed, Sir/Lord Charles Sinclair, the Marquess of Haimsbury & the Duchess of Branham, Lady Elizabeth 'Beth' who are still targeted by the sinister organization, Red Wing led by the demonic shape-shifting, Sir William "Wolf' Trent (aka Sir Daniel Outerbridge) whose true identity is a mystery. Trent still seeks to undermine the upcoming marriage even after having failed twice before to claim Beth. Lord Paul Stuart (of) Aubrey also returns as the noble but flawed friend with foes to conquer and appetites to control. Also returning are: Aunt Victoria (Tory), Charles aunt & mother-figure; Martin Kepelheim, the loyal family tailor/hypnotist/historian/astronomer/linguist; Reginald Whitmore, the dedicated family physician/ancient language expert/chemist; and Edward McPherson, a clergyman, scholar/soldier, and Christian demonologist. The demonic duo of the ghostly Prince Razarit Nicolescu Cojocaru Lupei Grigor (aka Rasha), and his nephew, the shadowy and menacing Prince Anatole Romanov (whose true identity is that of a fallen angelic being) also return. They are once again committed to their diabolical game plan against the divine-led Inner Circle Intelligence (ICI) and The Circle whose leadership wants Charles in a leadership role. A new character, Ida Renee Ross, a streetwise 'lady of the evening" becomes the focus of a new 'patron', Prince Anatole Romanov, a shadowy figure who wants to 'protect' Ida, is also prominent in the evolving battle. Another new character is a demonic shape-shifter (aka Mary Kelly) who serves Sir William Trent. Lorena Melissa MacKey (aka Elaine) is a doctor & black witch who is spying for Romanov. Susana Morgan is another of Trent's operatives. Sir Albert Wendaway, Charles' cousin is shadowy member of the court whose intentions are questionable. Raziel the Ancient is one of the Seven who comes against the detective. Finally, there is the mysterious and shadowy character of Mr. Thirteen, a patient of Castor Asylum and connected to Trent. The players and stage are set for the next challenging chapter of the engrossing series.
********************* SPOILERS ****************
Mrs. Gilbert packs her novel with hybrid creatures, Watchers (high-ranking demons), Red Wing minions, despicable gutter denizens, and nobility. The gigantic and monstruous creature seen by the Beth the duchess becomes central to the developing dark tale. The author's introduction of two hybrids (Razarit and Rasha) and two major angels of God, Shelumiel and Samael adds to the ever-growing battle between good and evil. There are dark allusions to demonic summoning and possessions which the author handles with a deft hand. The tie-in to the Jack the Ripper murders and the suspicion that the Ripper is a 'dybuuk' (a disembodied demonic spirit in the Jewish belief) adds another level of menace. This of course would mean that the Ripper was of the Jewish faith but driven to commit evil acts by supernatural forces. I found this to be of future significance in the engrossing novel. The author mixes enough suspense and terror into the criminal investigations and secret societal master plan for two novels. I applaud her developing mastery and maturity in this third novel.
What stood out for me, personally was the delicate balance between operating in this world while battling on the spiritual plane. The author adds layers of reality to the spiritual warfare by bringing in such details as an animal's sensitivity to an evil presence in the form of Samson's (Tory's dog) barking before an evil event, Bella, another dog's reaction to certain people, and the mysterious death (through massive blood loss and bacterial liver infection) of Beth's prized stallion and mare. There is also the death of a loyal servant of the Sinclair household who is possessed at the time of her death. The criminal evil element is countered by police officer, Edmund Reid and Commissioner Monro whose diligence reveals that Redwing's has been targeting Beth & her parents; targeting Charles' family; and connected with several unsolved crimes, including the Ripper's crimes. On the spiritual warfare plane is prayer warrior efforts of Mrs. Alcorn, the housekeeper and Reverend McPherson.
This novel is definitely darker as the author recalls previous violence like the murder of Duchess Patricia in 1879; Trent's blood-thirsty hybrids preying on animals and humans; the growing menace of winged bat-like creatures that operate in defiance of Trent. Two of these latter-mentioned creatures (Raziel and Saraquel, i.e., Sara, an ancient vampire) have their own agenda. There is also a revelation about Beth that ramps up Trent's efforts and Charles Sinclair's protective stance. As the supernatural events increase, Beth's secret becomes harder to conceal even with Paul's involvement.
The human relationships also play a major role: Paul and Charles become closer; Beth's cousin, Della gets closer to Beth; and Dr. Kepler and Dr. Alexander Collins' relationship becomes strained. Mrs. Gilbert's heart for family is evident in her characters' family and faith ties. This aspect of the novel is a huge reason why this novel works well. The author also fleshes out the role and importance of The Circle group's individual members. These societal leaders and people of faith (especially Lady Louisa Gilmore) play important roles in Charles' development and importance. They also uncover traitors and dispatch the threats to Charles and Beth. Charles Sinclair's aunt, Lady Victoria provides familial love and support for him and his second chance at marriage and a future family with Beth. Dr. Michael Emerson, Beth's doctor reveals medical information about Beth's mother, Patricia that will impact Beth and that Beth has a sibling. We also learn about Beth's parents (Connor and Patricia) whose marriage suffered and a tragic death. The mysterious role of Moira Stopes, a former household employee holds the key to the mystery surrounding Beth's parents.
The author brings her tale to several climaxes in a build-up to the final one. The attempts by Trent; the violent Jack the Ripper murders; the revelation of Trent's intimate involvement with the Stuart family, starting Robert Stuart (11th Earl) to Connor, his son (12th Earl) to Charles (the ne Earl); the appearance of demonic creatures; regular spiritual and physical attacks by Trent (in alternate forms) and his minions/operatives on Beth; and deaths all lead to a violent climax with the demonic horde. The author presents a dark history of historical events as orchestrated by secret societies (The Arcadians, the Round Table, Lords of the Black Stone). It is also made clear that Charles Stuart is sought by Redwing because of his ancestry and bloodlines. He is to be theirs to control as a 'puppet king' for their dark plan of world domination. But, the Watchers have a different. The internal conflict between Redwing and the Watchers provides two 'jokers' in the card game of survival - one turns to good while another hides his dark connection. The forces of evil and good are like two armies, replete with generals, foot soldiers, spies, and subterfuge. The author also throws in betrayal among the enemy which is what does happen for they are not of a united reason. In doing this, the author shows that the enemy is impotent in the face of the faithful and those aligned with the Lord.
The novel/serial drama wraps up in a manner that sets up the next book in the series. The forces of good thwart attacks that leave them wary and exhausted but faithful. The forces of evil grow desperate and quarrel among themselves. The day of the wedding in the presence of high royalty (including those aligned with The Circle and Redwing) serves as the precursor to the climax. An unexpected player enters the final act of arrogance, covetousness, and desperation. This sets up the next book.
Overall, this novel elevates the series to a higher level for many reasons. It was an exciting and thrilling reading adventure with plenty of surprises and colorful characters. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction and fantasy.
January 29, 2020
I love this author, She is very good at writing between the spirit world and the physical world. What God can do..the prayers to me are awesome..but she does it with very good and intriguing story line.
March 6, 2025
Amazing
This is one of the greatest series of books I've read in my entire life, which is saying something because I read constantly and have probably read a library's worth of them by now. Give it a chance, you won't regret it.
This is one of the greatest series of books I've read in my entire life, which is saying something because I read constantly and have probably read a library's worth of them by now. Give it a chance, you won't regret it.
February 24, 2024
Unseen
Interesting take on Ripper history. Maybe a view from a spiritual point about why man may be influenced by evil entities.
Interesting take on Ripper history. Maybe a view from a spiritual point about why man may be influenced by evil entities.
December 16, 2024
This series just gets more thrilling and exciting!
November 28, 2025
Blood is the Life
Excellent book. Excellent series! This is my second reading and it's as great as the first time! Thank you, Sharon Gilbert.
Excellent book. Excellent series! This is my second reading and it's as great as the first time! Thank you, Sharon Gilbert.
January 30, 2023
I love books that draw you into it. So far every book of this series has.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews