Immanuel's Veins by Ted Dekker

It is 1772 in the country of Moldavia. Toma Nicolesecu and Alek Cardei are assigned the task of protecting the inhabitants of the Cantemir estate. During a party occurring almost immediately upon their arrival, they meet a strange group of Russians. They are shockingly rich and unbelievably attractive, so what's not to like? The seemingly easy job of protecting the Cantemirs gets increasingly difficult, and the strange becomes unnaturally queer. Love is displayed; watch the blood flow through Immanuel's Veins.

I am always anxious to get my hands on Ted Dekker's newest novel, and this one was no exception. I love Ted's mega-series: The Books of History Chronicles, and I was ecstatic to learn that Immanuel's Veins has ties to it. If you love BOHC, and are looking for more, have no fear - this book lives up to those expectations in a way that I did not imagine. Now, don't worry I am not saying that you must read the whole Circle Series first, I am simply saying this is the newest addition to the fantasy collection as far as I'm concerned. However, it is a stand-alone novel and can be read independently. That being said, this was a book of constant suspense that had me clenching my fists desperate to see the outcome. It is a tale of true sacrificial love - the willingness to give everything, even your life, for the sake of another. I recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy, suspense, or romance novels. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did!

Here is the trailer for the book:

To anyone who enjoyed Immanuel's Veins: I am giving away a free Immanuel's Veins t-shirt. If you are interested, please leave a comment below by September 30th. The winner shall be selected at random.  
     

The Skin Map by Stephen R. Lawhead

Kit Livingstone is on his way to his girlfriend's house when an old man named Cosimo approaches him. The man goes on about some psychotic theology that the world has multiple dimensions and alternate realities; saying more than what’s required for Kit to make an assessment that the old man is insane. The problem is however, that what we think is correct, isn’t always in line with the truth. Kit finds himself thrust into a world where time is... different. He must find the Skin Map at all costs, but it won’t be easy – for others share the same goal.

This is the first book I have ever read by Stephen Lawhead. I didn’t really know much about him, but the book looked good so I decided to read it. I must say, I was quite impressed! It was well written, and pulled me right in at the beginning instead of waiting a hundred pages. I am not a huge fan of sci-fi, but still, I enjoyed this one. A few of the concepts were in line with Ted Dekker’s Blink but that was fine by me because it is a perplexing line of thought. My only complaint is that I don’t think the ley lines and how the other worlds came to be were explained well enough; but can’t wait to read the next book! Overall, a great work!

Here is the trailer: