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The Portal #1

Scars of My Guardian Angel;: Science Fiction & Fantasy Novel

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Unaware by even the angels, God chose a relatively normal man, Chado Cole, to be a part of a mission that started over 6,000 years ago – a mission that holds the fate of humanity in the balance.

As Chado makes his transition into the spiritual realm, his eyes are opened to the mysteries of God. Now he walks among angels but is led by one; the mighty Warrior Angel, Uriel. This angel has watched over and protected him from birth, yet now they walk together. Along their journey a bonding relationship grows as the beauty of Heaven is unveiled, and the undisclosed mission of God is revealed.

This novel has deeply and personally touched many readers. Numerous booklovers are saying: “It brought me comfort beyond anything I could imagine… words jump off the page… it reads like a movie… it made me think of Heaven like never before… the Holy Spirit appointed every word … thought-provoking … best book I’ve ever read other than the Bible … one can only pray that heaven will look like this ... touched all five of my senses… didn’t want it to end… can’t wait for the next book…”

Throughout time, many religions have presented differing beliefs of the afterlife. Whatever they may be, we surely all have a final destination. Ask yourself: Is there a Heaven or Hell? When I die will I simply cease to exist and my body turns to dust? If I make it to Heaven, what will I do for eternity? Will I see and know my family & friends? What about angels and demons, are they real?

Let the true events of the author’s life, mixed with his fictional imagination, carry you through the portals of the unknown!

THE PORTAL SERIES:
#1 “Scars of My Guardian Angel”
#2 “Bloodline of the Scrolls”
#3 “Revelation of the Scroll”

312 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2018

327 people are currently reading
69 people want to read

About the author

Russell L. Martin

3 books8 followers
Russell L. Martin, known to his family and friends as Rusty, was born and raised in Grant Parish, located in central Louisiana. His family lived near the poverty level throughout his childhood. With a limited education and a strong desire for a better life, he hired out with a traveling construction company that installed oil and gas pipelines across the USA. Starting out at the bottom of the food chain, working as a laborer with little to no money, he would camp out near creeks and rivers to survive the high cost of living away from home.


After several years of working in all phases of the oil and gas industry, Rusty decided that it was time to get a taste of installing pipelines in the Gulf of Mexico. To further his education in this part of the industry, he received commercial diving degrees at The Ocean Corporation in Houston, TX. After only a couple years working in the Gulf as a diver he went back to land-lay operations, due to a family crisis. He continued working freelance for multiple pipeline companies, until finally retiring after 34 years in the oil and gas industry.

It was not until he decided to settle back down where his roots of life started in central Louisiana, that he finally surrendered to becoming an author. His love for God, paired with many strange events throughout his life, left him with a gift of telling amazing stories. He has stated, and truly believes, God led him to the keyboard of his old work laptop. Surprising his family and friends, he unveiled a hidden talent that no one realized he possessed, including himself.

After writing "Scars of My Guardian Angel", a 312 page Christian novel, several proof readers were asked to give an unbiased opinion of the book. Their incredible reaction and positive reviews inspired this author to continue writing, what is now called "The Portal Series". The second book, "Bloodline of the Scrolls", was self-published in December of 2018. Russell will be writing a third book of the series, "Revelation of the Scrolls", with a goal of publishing in 2019.

Rusty has also written 13 wonderful Christian songs, that he and his wife share in local churches around their community. Playing his guitar and singing Christian music is truly a deep passion of his heart.

He and his wife, Laura, live a humble and quiet life on a few acres nestled in the middle of Kisatchie National Forest. They enjoy spending time with their two beautiful horses, Ellie Mae and Hollywood. This couple also loves three stray dogs they rescued out of the deep woods. The one they call Daisy Lou, looks like she might be a Redbone Coonhound. Another, Moushie, the most recent addition, looks very much like a Mountain Cur. Lastly is Benji-faced Nibbles, well he's just a dog with a cute little underbite.

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5 stars
104 (68%)
4 stars
29 (19%)
3 stars
11 (7%)
2 stars
3 (1%)
1 star
4 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Ruchita Nemade.
279 reviews14 followers
August 27, 2021
I knew I was reading a very biblical book but after a while, it just gets too much.
I for one, feel a little scared if I don't pray
Profile Image for Rebecca Hicks.
1 review
March 30, 2018
WOW !!!!

This book is a page turner, Right from the beginning to catches you and doesn't let you go. I literally had to make my self slow down reading because i did not want it to end.
Russell puts you right there with him as he describes where he is and those with him. You might not except to be laughing out loud when you think about heaven but laugh you will do. It will spark your imagination and your heart.
It is a delightful read leaving you asking your own questions about the after life . I myself am hoping some of them are in book 2.
One of the most enjoyable books I have read in a long while. So looking forward to books 2 & 3.
Wishing there was a 10 * rating because i would definitely be awarding Scars of my Guardian Angel all 10...
Rebecca Hicks
Profile Image for Laura Martin.
1 review1 follower
April 19, 2018
Utterly amazed at the author’s portrayal of Heaven in such an adventurous way! This book is entertaining and inspirational; an awesome journey of hope!
2 reviews1 follower
June 3, 2018
5 Stars Is Not Enough!

Although this book is part real life and part fictional fantasy of the author’s heavenly journey; I found myself getting anxious with anticipation for the possibilities of MY afterlife! As one that lives with chronic pain, I think that if Heaven is but a small part of the author’s depiction, I can’t wait to go!!!
Profile Image for Marissa Mitchell.
11 reviews
August 2, 2020
I read it in 2 sittings. Once I got past the first half I couldn’t put it down and thoroughly enjoyed it. It reminded me a tiny bit of CS. Lewis’ “The chronicles of Narnia”. It’s an entirely different story but if you enjoyed those books you would enjoy these. What I loved about the book:
- It was a page turner; it’s a fast read. It doesn’t lag or drag at all.
- There were multiple scenes in Heaven that were quite creative, unique and beautiful that I really appreciated.
- There were multiple times that I was so moved and touched by a scene that I felt the Holy Spirit & in once scene in particular I cried, overwhelmed with envisioning that scene for myself.
- The author does an incredible job of describing an after life that is so joyful and peaceful that I genuinely can’t wait to go to heaven myself.
- I do feel that the author was truly inspired to write this book!
- I enjoyed this book so much that I am going to give the second one a whirl!

What I didn’t love so much about the book, is purely based on my own personal preferences; not a criticism of the author.
- I would love a little more description or characteristics of my protagonists & of the scenery that the protagonist see. Basically the writing style is more of a “telling” story versus a “describing” story for my taste. I don’t need a full description just a few things & my imagination can do the rest. I was just disappointed that As the reader, we get absolutely nothing to describe Chaddo, not one adjective. We get nothing about Uriel other than he’s strong & has scars. Again, just my preference. Even parts of heaven that were described were hard to follow because it was vague and it jumped around. I struggled to imagine everything as much as I would have liked. For example, If it weren’t for the picture of the portal on the cover of the book I would have never understood what it looked like.

-In general the dialogue between the protagonist and his heavenly escorts/ friends felt very juvenile & “surface” to me; as if the book was directed at a much younger audience. I felt compelled to push past this and I am so thankful I did.

Overall I enjoyed this book; the storyline so far is wonderful and I’m hooked! I full intend to read the whole series. I’m thankful for writers like Russell who I’m sure poured many hours and their hearts & soul into the pages for us; I’m sure it was a labor of love. It was not in vain. My testimony has been increased, my love of the Lord has been increased and looking forward to returning to my heavenly home on the day that God calls me back has been increased. I’m sure these books will bless the lives of many others as well! Well done!
2 reviews
August 24, 2018
I enjoyed this book and found it to be a page turner as have so many others. It did open my heart to what is to come, and as another reviewer noted ... if our time beyond this is only half of what was represented within the pages of this book ... let's go! ;-) I do have a suggestion for the writer, and that is to be more diverse when it comes to those seeking to cause the main character harm during his sojourn on Earth. It was noted that most, if not all were either black or brown. That said, the book is a joy to both heart and soul.
Profile Image for D.K. Ricks.
Author 1 book5 followers
July 15, 2019
Awe inspiring Book!

What a Beautiful Heaven yet sad world! This book tells of constant struggle of living in a sinful world, with every obstacle is a attempt of evil to take your soul. BUT WITH GOD'S Love and Mercy and his protective Angels, we can make it through! Loved this book! As I read, this book I have recalled many small, large, and some seem impossible, of God's Miracles happening everyday in my life and friends and family. God is an Awesome and Loves his children! Looking forward to next book in the series!
18 reviews
July 3, 2018
Inspiring

I was delighted, enthralled, fascinated and intrigued with this wonderful piece of work..From the beginning to the end I was captivated with the author 's ability to take his readers on such an indescribable journey..I can't wait for his next book. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning more about life after death..What glorious time it will be...
392 reviews1 follower
December 21, 2018
Awesome!

I had to keep reminding myself that this is fiction. The writer is so descriptive I could actually see heaven. Only thing that bothers me and it does with any book I read when says shakes head would mean no when nod head means yes. But in the story the author writes shakes for yes and no. Why it bothers me I don't know but there are several author's doing that. The story is the best of any story of Heaven I've read.
Profile Image for Jacqueline McDougall.
Author 1 book2 followers
December 1, 2019
Loved the book. So many heavenly things about which I've speculated this author has apparently speculated as well such as beloved animals in Heaven, space travel, ability to fly, where babies go who die before they are born. The characters were multidimensional and likeable. I also appreciated that he didn't sweep satan and hell under the rug. Immediately ordered the sequel and hope to read many more by this entertaining and insightful author.
8 reviews
May 21, 2018
This is one of my favorite books of all times. It was well written and kept me wanting to read. I have been excited to share this book with many of my friends and family. If you have not read this book yet, you really need to.
1 review
July 4, 2018
I could not put this book down! The author drew me into his life stories and then into his wonderful imaginings about eternity. Beautiful images and characters. I’m looking forward to the next book!
Profile Image for Hattie Montague.
4 reviews
October 28, 2018
Heaven Sent

I know this is a book of fiction, but the story was awesome. I'd be careful recommending this book to a non-believer because even though much has been taken from the Bible, no one can actually say all that is written is true. It's a nice thought, though.
734 reviews5 followers
June 20, 2019
Come Lord Jesus Come

Following Chado through the adventures of his life , his death and his glorious visit to heaven makes you hope that heaven comres very
soon. Great story thank you

Profile Image for Dynah Zale.
Author 5 books42 followers
April 19, 2020
Conservative Bullish

A few parts rubbed me the wrong way but when the other said the big cities were run by sinful people; last time I looked All people fall short of the glory of God. It don’t matter where you live.
2 reviews
December 13, 2020
Bookreads

It was well written and I got lost in the story. I enjoyed it immensely and made me want to get closer to our Lord ,Jesus. I even cried in some parts. I recommend this book for everyone. Can't wait to start the next book!!
19 reviews
December 24, 2020
Interesting read and insight into heaven

I know this is a fiction book but it was so good. The writer was very detailed into giving us insight into the heavenly realm. This was a great read.
Profile Image for Hunter Q Lee.
496 reviews3 followers
May 23, 2022
Good story

This is a good story. I recommend it as what it is-a work of fiction. As for its theology, it is quite stretch. Like Mercy Me says, "I Can Only Imagine what it will be like."
41 reviews1 follower
September 24, 2022
Spirit filled

This was one of the most uplifting books I
have ever read. Well written and engaging, picks up the storyline and doesn't let you go.
Can't wait to read the next one. Highly recommend this author.
5 stars
1 review
February 9, 2019
Great

Always wonder what heaven will be like. Thanks for the imaginative story! Loving Jesus And can’t wait to be there!

29 reviews
March 18, 2019
A Portrait In Words

What an imaginative look into what Heaven will be like. Makes me long for it all the more. Looking forward to enjoying "the mission".
882 reviews3 followers
April 12, 2019
Didn't finish it

I was hopeful about this book and kept trying to get into it but I finally quit halfway through. People have different views about what heaven is like this certainly didn't match up with my views . I feel like I am open enough to other points of view to read this. Unfortunately, It felt ridiculous and contrived .
Profile Image for Patti McDermott.
76 reviews2 followers
July 18, 2019
Peaceful read

Very hard book to put down. A very peaceful Christian read. Nice way to picture the next life. Incorporates all Gods creatures.
Profile Image for Penny.
14 reviews
November 11, 2019
Makes You Think

Enjoyed the ebook immensely! Will read the series. Very heart felt book. I would recommend these books to my friends!
6 reviews1 follower
November 30, 2019
Loved this

This makes heaven seem so much more real! I'm sure it will be one of those books I keep thinking about as time goes by. Good reading.
Profile Image for Scott A. Norby.
14 reviews1 follower
Read
January 10, 2020
It is a good book, but the author took a lot of license with how I think most people see heaven.
7 reviews
March 10, 2020
Awesome book!
The author's imaginative writing about the world we will see next is extremely uplifting and encouraging!
10 reviews1 follower
May 12, 2020
INCREDIBLE!

Read with open mind and allow the Father to bless you. You will be AMAZED at what he reveals to you! Thank you Abba God...
7 reviews
January 5, 2023
Touched my soul

I have loved reading this book. I was touched by the stories of the events in Chado’s life. Cried when the Holy Spirit was evident. Caused me to stop and look at my life and what I am living for.
On to book 2.
2 reviews
September 9, 2018
Very informative, never read something like that before, but I'd like to know more about what happened next after he got the assignment from Jesus, how he got back to earth knowing that he was death, how many days was he left on the earth and journey in the heaven

Very good book, very informative and very truth. I would like to know about the author, and his ministry of other books he wrote
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews

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