Warrior Monk: A Pastor Stephen Grant Novel

So, I heard some buzz about this book and purchased it last October.  But, it sat on my bookshelf unopened until last week when I took it with me over to the cottage and finally cracked it open.  I could hardly put the thing down and finished it a couple of days later.  What a fun, intriguing read! 

Ray Keating has created a unique and memorable character in Pr. Stephen Grant, who is an ex-CIA agent turned LCMS pastor, and the story he weaves together in this book is both wildly entertaining and thought-provoking.  Adventure, politics, theology, humor, temptation, suspense, romance - this book has it all, and then some.  I thoroughly enjoyed reading it from beginning to end, and look forward to future adventures with Pr. Stephen Grant.

If you're looking for a fun read that will not only entertain you, but also give you much to ponder, this is it.  I love the fact that Pr. Grant serves St. Mary's Lutheran Church, and that the LCMS President in the book is named Harrison Piepkorn (things that make you go, "hmmm").  And, I really enjoy Keating's style of writing, especially the way he has the characters in the book interact with each other, which makes the reader feel like he's part of that interaction, and the way he lets us in on what's going through Pr. Grant's mind throughout the book, which provide for some of the most humorous, but oh so true, moments.  I'd say more, but you'll just have to read if for yourself. :)  

So, give it a read, friends.  You won't be disappointed.  You can order it here or here.

Hey, this would be a great book for members of a congregation to read and then discuss together - hint, hint! :)  Maybe a certain congregation could even use this book to launch the book club they keep talking about starting someday.