Battle for His Soul

Wow, what an amazing read! In the last year I have read eight novels, 3 short stories, and two contributions to anthologies by Theresa Linden, and I can safely state that she has jumped into my top 5 all time favorite fiction authors. Her stories have incredibly fleshed out characters, stunning plots, and are examples of masterful storytelling. And though, this book is book three in the West brothers series, and one of 5 books about the three boys, it is in many ways completely different than anything else Linden has written.

I have been jumping around and reading these books out of order. The first book I had read was book 1, Roland West Loner, and loved it. Then I read book 4, Standing Strong, and thought it was amazing. Next to be read was Anyone But Him, which is a West Brother story set a few years after the first 4, and was amazed by it. And shortly before reading this volume I read book 2, Life-Changing Love which was also an excellent read.

I have loved all of Linden's books, but this one is so powerful It will always hold a special place on my shelf. I recommend all of Linden's books, but the spiritual elements in this book take it to a new level. An incredible read that I give my highest recommendation.

Wow! What a fantastic reminder that we are never alone. We are surrounded by angels, supported and encouraged by our guardian angel, and tempted by demons. Theresa Linden brings this to life with her fantastic visuals of the spiritual world. She just as successfully portrays her characters, from the individual personalities of each of the West brothers, to the struggles that pull at them internally. The author is also very detailed in her descriptions of settings. I really visualized the scenes, which, for me at least, is a plus in pulling me into the story.

There were also very powerful moments in the story that I can't share on this post, for giving it away would spoil the story. So, you'll have to read it for yourself. This is a great story for teens and a reminder that every choice we make, regardless of the size, is an opportunity to glorify the Lord or please satan. So, we must choose wisely. I look forward to reading more from this author.

Battle for His Soul is the third book in the West brother’s series by Theresa Linden. This book focuses more on Jarret West – the brother who spent his life bullying his younger brother Roland, controlling his twin brother Keefe, and engaging in many dangerous and self-destructive behaviors.
This novel has a very interesting twist that the first two books in the series do not. Not only do we see the story from several different character’s perspectives, but we also get to see this story unfold from a spiritual realm. We actually experience the fight between angels and demons that surrounds not only Jarret and his decisions but all the characters. It’s a fascinating concept to think about what could be happening around us as we go about our lives.
Though this book is about a teen boy, it would e great for all older teens – there are plenty of female characters and an intriguing story that illustrates the struggles and temptations teens face and how they can protect themselves from those temptations. One thing I love about Linden’s books is the interesting Catholic topics she includes, and this novel is no different with the idea of being called to religious vocation. What a wonderful chapter in the West boys saga.

Battle for His Soul has the power to change lives. Even though I’ve always known, intellectually, that we live among angels and demons, I seldom give it much though. Theresa Linden vividly depicts the spiritual beings as they praise, defend, tempt, and deceive. It’s allowed me to see with fresh eyes these forces at work in my own life.

I think this is a spectacular book for teens. First, it introduces them to listening to God’s call in their lives and discerning their vocations. Second, it demonstrates the practical power of prayer. Third, since teens are probably even more susceptible than the rest of us to living in the here and now, its vivid depiction of the unseen spiritual forces surrounding us is eye-opening.

And finally, this book has its place in the Year of Mercy with its sterling examples of showing compassion and mercy to all, regardless of whether they deserve it. It’s that act of mercy, that prayer, that fasting, that may just make all the difference.

I recommend this book to truth-seekers and those who either have a desire to grow closer to their guardian angel or maintain a curiosity about the angelic presence in which Catholics believe. Excellent work!