Review of Cross Intents
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Matilda SINAH
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Review of Cross Intents
[Following is a volunteer review of "Cross Intents" by Scott Wells.]
OVERVIEW & STRENGTHS
As the inaugural volume in the Cross Intents trilogy, The Birth narrates the nativity story from an angelic perspective. Angelic Captain Elric leads a covert squad tasked with keeping the newborn “King” (Jesus) safe amid escalating spiritual warfare. Wells blends biblical narrative and celestial fantasy, offering readers a thrilling peek into the unseen battles that accompany the Gospel events .
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
WORLD ‑CLASS BIBLICAL WORLD ‑BUILDING: Dramatic celestial strategy sessions and spiritual battles rival works by Ted Dekker and Frank Peretti .
EMOTIONAL DEPTH IN HUMAN CHARACTERS: Mary, Joseph, and others respond in ways that feel relatable and genuine—a novice mother’s vulnerability is handled with care .
TENSION AND PACING: The spiritual and physical realms intertwine seamlessly, keeping readers on the edge of their seat .
EDUCATIONAL APPENDIX: Scripture references included in an appendix offer transparency and invite deeper study .
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT
1. BLENDED FICTION/SCRIPTURE: Readers expecting a purely scriptural account may be unsettled by the fictional angelic interventions.
2. CHARACTER VARIETY AMONG ANGELS: While Elric is compelling, supporting angelic characters could use more distinct arcs.
3. DENSE THEOLOGICALLY: Spiritual warfare scenes may be too complex for readers unfamiliar with biblical fantasy conventions.
4. RELATIVELY NICHE AUDIENCE: Primarily appealing to Christian readers versed in Gospel history and spiritual war themes.
WHAT I LOVED
EPIC SCALE: The celestial host's operation feels grand and purposeful, highlighting spiritual stakes.
BALANCED EMOTION: Scenes like Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem resonate deeply .
FAITHFUL FANTASY: The story respects the Biblical narrative while enriching it imaginatively—no preachiness, just heartfelt storytelling .
CONCLUSION & SUGGESTIONS
Cross Intents: The Birth makes a compelling series opener. It deftly marries Gospel events with supernatural storytelling—ideal for teens and adults who enjoy Christian fantasy.
To improve:
Clarify fictional vs. historical, perhaps via preface or author note.
Expand supporting character depth, giving named angels individual arcs.
Add reader guide features, such as discussion questions on theology and spirituality.
FINAL RATING & JUSTIFICATION
4 out of 5 — The book earns top marks for imaginative scope, emotional authenticity, and spiritual resonance. Minor deductions reflect its niche audience and occasional dense theological pacing, but overall it stands out as a polished and immersive Christian fantasy.
BOTTOM LINE: Cross Intents: The Birth is a richly imaginative and spiritually spirited retelling of Jesus’s birth—seen through angelic eyes. It offers heart, drama, and theological depth that leave you eager for the next installment.
******
Cross Intents
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
OVERVIEW & STRENGTHS
As the inaugural volume in the Cross Intents trilogy, The Birth narrates the nativity story from an angelic perspective. Angelic Captain Elric leads a covert squad tasked with keeping the newborn “King” (Jesus) safe amid escalating spiritual warfare. Wells blends biblical narrative and celestial fantasy, offering readers a thrilling peek into the unseen battles that accompany the Gospel events .
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
WORLD ‑CLASS BIBLICAL WORLD ‑BUILDING: Dramatic celestial strategy sessions and spiritual battles rival works by Ted Dekker and Frank Peretti .
EMOTIONAL DEPTH IN HUMAN CHARACTERS: Mary, Joseph, and others respond in ways that feel relatable and genuine—a novice mother’s vulnerability is handled with care .
TENSION AND PACING: The spiritual and physical realms intertwine seamlessly, keeping readers on the edge of their seat .
EDUCATIONAL APPENDIX: Scripture references included in an appendix offer transparency and invite deeper study .
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT
1. BLENDED FICTION/SCRIPTURE: Readers expecting a purely scriptural account may be unsettled by the fictional angelic interventions.
2. CHARACTER VARIETY AMONG ANGELS: While Elric is compelling, supporting angelic characters could use more distinct arcs.
3. DENSE THEOLOGICALLY: Spiritual warfare scenes may be too complex for readers unfamiliar with biblical fantasy conventions.
4. RELATIVELY NICHE AUDIENCE: Primarily appealing to Christian readers versed in Gospel history and spiritual war themes.
WHAT I LOVED
EPIC SCALE: The celestial host's operation feels grand and purposeful, highlighting spiritual stakes.
BALANCED EMOTION: Scenes like Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem resonate deeply .
FAITHFUL FANTASY: The story respects the Biblical narrative while enriching it imaginatively—no preachiness, just heartfelt storytelling .
CONCLUSION & SUGGESTIONS
Cross Intents: The Birth makes a compelling series opener. It deftly marries Gospel events with supernatural storytelling—ideal for teens and adults who enjoy Christian fantasy.
To improve:
Clarify fictional vs. historical, perhaps via preface or author note.
Expand supporting character depth, giving named angels individual arcs.
Add reader guide features, such as discussion questions on theology and spirituality.
FINAL RATING & JUSTIFICATION
4 out of 5 — The book earns top marks for imaginative scope, emotional authenticity, and spiritual resonance. Minor deductions reflect its niche audience and occasional dense theological pacing, but overall it stands out as a polished and immersive Christian fantasy.
BOTTOM LINE: Cross Intents: The Birth is a richly imaginative and spiritually spirited retelling of Jesus’s birth—seen through angelic eyes. It offers heart, drama, and theological depth that leave you eager for the next installment.
******
Cross Intents
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: Storm Chasing by Scott Withers
