The Soldier and Assyrian Queen

 

The Thread that Held by Shawn and Nahrain Taylor is a poignant memoir that weaves together two distinct yet intertwined stories of resilience, love, and perseverance. Through alternating perspectives, the authors recount their challenging upbringings, their serendipitous meeting in war-torn Baghdad, and their journey to build a life together against all odds.

Shawn's story begins in the foster care system, where he landed after enduring abuse from a brutal stepfather and neglect from an overworked mother pursuing a nursing career. Labeled a troublemaker for longing to return home, Shawn bounced between foster homes, eventually accepting that he had to forge his own path. His time in the system instilled a fierce work ethic and unyielding determination, qualities that propelled him through life's challenges. Joining the military, Shawn methodically built a stable future, overcoming obstacles with patience and grit.

In contrast, Nahrain's early life was filled with warmth and laughter in a tight-knit Assyrian Christian family in Iraq. However, growing up as a religious minority in a volatile region brought danger. At 13, Nahrain was forced to leave school due to threats from terrorists targeting young Christian girls, a stark reminder of the perilous environment she navigated.

Their paths converged in Baghdad, where Shawn, stationed to set up a military base, needed someone to manage the base's internet café. Nahrain, with her experience selling clothes and antiques, took the job. Their relationship began tentatively—Shawn, reserved, would stop by for a soft drink, exchanging few words. Over time, their conversations deepened, fostering a connection that blossomed into love. But their budding romance faced a harsh interruption when Shawn's unit was redeployed, and shortly after, Nahrain was severely injured in a devastating van explosion that killed most of her companions. Shawn, believing her dead, was heartbroken.

Two years later, a chance message on Yahoo Messenger revealed Nahrain's survival. After enduring poorly executed surgeries in Iraq and fleeing to Jordan for safety, she faced further medical challenges with inadequate procedures. Eventually, an uncle's help enabled her to emigrate to Australia, where she continued her recovery. Shawn, undeterred by distance, relocated to Australia, though his military deployments briefly kept them apart. The couple married, and Shawn established a computer repair business, laying the foundation for their shared future. After a series of twists and turns, they settled in America, where they now raise their two children.

The Thread that Held is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of love to overcome adversity. The authors' contrasting backgrounds—Shawn's solitary struggle in the foster system and Nahrain's communal yet threatened upbringing—highlight their remarkable resilience. While the narrative occasionally lingers on logistical details, the emotional core of their story shines through, offering readers an inspiring tale of hope and connection forged in the unlikeliest of circumstances. This memoir will resonate with those who appreciate stories of triumph over hardship and the enduring bonds that hold us together.

The Witches Place in the Resistance

A Resistance of Witches: A Novel

By Morgan Ryan

 Set against the backdrop of World War II, The Witches of World War II weaves a captivating tale of magic, intrigue, and resistance. The novel imagines a secret magical academy in Britain, training witches in high magic and housing a powerful coven. Rumors of historical figures like Gerald Gardner or Aleister Crowley leading rituals to thwart Nazi invasions inspire the story, but this narrative takes a unique approach.

The story begins with Winston Churchill enlisting the academy’s witches to protect a mystical artifact, the Grimorium Verum, a book that could grant the Nazis world domination if seized. The mission falls to Lydia, a young witch with the rare ability to astral project and locate hidden objects. Opposing her is a formidable Nazi coven, escalating the stakes of this magical arms race.

As the coven performs a ritual to locate the Grimorium Verum, they are ambushed by Nazi witches, resulting in devastating losses, including the death of their leader. Lydia, thrust into the role of grand mistress, must navigate her new responsibilities while grappling with personal tensions. Her mother, a hedgewitch, disapproves of Lydia’s pursuit of high magic, creating a compelling mother-daughter conflict that enriches the narrative.

Lydia’s quest takes her to the Louvre, where the grimoire is rumored to be hidden. There, she meets Henry, an African American witch from New Orleans with the power to see the dead. Together, they track the grimoire to a museum curator’s home, only to discover the curator has been killed by Nazis. Captured by the enemy coven, Lydia and Henry ally with Rebecca, a Jewish woman resisting the Nazis’ attempts to extract information from her. Through courage and cunning, Rebecca frees herself, and the trio unites to secure the grimoire.

Lydia returns to Britain to regroup before launching a daring rescue of her captured allies. The novel brims with suspense, unexpected plot twists, and richly drawn characters. The blend of historical fiction and fantastical witchcraft feels authentic, immersing readers in a world where magic shapes the course of war.

For fans of historical fantasy and intricate magical systems, The Witches of World War II is a thrilling read that balances high-stakes adventure with emotional depth. Highly recommended for those who enjoy speculative fiction with a touch of truth.

Legend of the Hairy Man

 

Tribal Big Foot

By David Paulides

Introduction

Since the 1850s, both settlers and Native Americans have reported sightings of giant human-like or apelike creatures in the forests of North America. These beings, often referred to as wildmen, Hermit of Siskiyou, or hairy men, are commonly known today as Bigfoot or Sasquatch. Standing approximately 8 feet tall, these creatures are described as having massive, hairy bodies with minimal facial hair, revealing a human-like face beneath. The term "Bigfoot" was coined in the mid-1950s, but sightings predate this label. The creature gained widespread attention after the 1967 Patterson-Gimlin film, which captured a purported Bigfoot crossing a riverbed. While some dismiss the film as a hoax, others consider it authentic, and the debate continues. Notably, many reported encounters describe creatures that differ from the one in the film, suggesting variations in appearance or behavior.

Preferred Habitats

Bigfoot is said to inhabit remote, forested areas with sparse human populations. These creatures are often found near water sources such as rivers and creeks, which provide drinking water and fish. They are frequently reported along ridgelines, offering vantage points to monitor the valleys below for predators or prey. Additionally, Bigfoot sightings are common near caves or abandoned mines, which may explain the sulfurous odor sometimes associated with them. The creature appears to be comfortable around women and young children and is reportedly fond of horses but hostile toward dogs and adult males. Bigfoot sightings are also noted near Native American reservations.

Native American Perspectives

Many Native American tribes view Bigfoot positively, often considering it a guardian of nature or an elder brother figure. Some tribes describe historical relationships where Bigfoot and humans coexisted as neighbors. However, these relations are not always harmonious. There are accounts of conflicts, including rare instances of Bigfoot abducting women or children, with some reports suggesting forced reproduction, raising the possibility of human-Bigfoot hybrids. Bigfoot is also said to treat deer and horses like pets, showing a gentle side in certain contexts.

Encounters and Behaviors

The book documents numerous Bigfoot encounters, most of which involve the creature observing humans briefly before retreating. Bigfoot has been known to kill livestock, harvest crops, or rummage through trash cans, though these actions are typically non-aggressive and sometimes playful. While the creature’s appearance can be frightening, reports of aggression are rare. Some witnesses describe experiencing headaches or temporary paralysis during encounters, possibly due to infrasound or a strong odor emitted by the creature. The majority of sightings documented in the book occur in Northern California.

Connection to Previous Work

Tribal Bigfoot is a follow-up to David Paulides’ earlier work, The Hoopa Project, which also explores Bigfoot phenomena, particularly in the context of Native American experiences. This book expands on those themes, offering a detailed look at encounters and cultural perspectives.

Conclusion

Tribal Bigfoot is a compelling exploration of Bigfoot lore, blending historical accounts, Native American perspectives, and modern encounters. Its detailed documentation and engaging narrative make it a standout in cryptozoology literature. The book earns a 5-star rating for its thorough research and captivating storytelling.

The Great Jewish Encyclopedia

 

The Encyclopedia of Jewish Myth, Magic and Mysticism

By Geoffrey W. Dennis

The Encyclopedia of Jewish Myth, Magic, and Mysticism by Geoffrey W. Dennis is a comprehensive reference work presented in an A-to-Z format, defining key terms and concepts related to Jewish mysticism as found in texts like the Torah, Mishnah, Talmud, Kabbalah, and Zohar. While not designed for casual reading, this encyclopedia serves as an invaluable resource for those exploring Jewish mystical traditions, opening doors for further research. Its dense, academic style can feel dry and challenging at times, but its depth makes it an essential tool for understanding complex ideas.
The book covers a wide range of topics, from angels and demons to sacred texts and rituals. Below are a few highlighted terms that stood out as particularly fascinating and memorable:
• Angel of Death: Known by names like Malach HaMavet, the Destroyer, or the Angel of the Lord, this figure is responsible for guiding souls to the underworld. Described with varied appearances, from seven dragon heads to the queen of demons, the Angel of Death is sometimes conflated with Satan or the Yetzer Hara (the evil inclination inherent in humanity). It is also distinguished from fallen angels like Samael or Sariel, who led the Watchers.
• Sefer Bahir (Book of Illumination): An influential medieval Kabbalistic text, written in a cryptic, Midrashic style and attributed to early mystics. It introduces concepts like reincarnation and the Sefirot (the Tree of Life), portraying Abraham as an embodiment of the divine attribute of love.
• Cemetery (Beit HaKevorot): Described as a community repository for the dead, the cemetery is considered ritually impure, requiring those who visit to wash afterward. In mystical literature, it is a place where demons and spirits may gather. The encyclopedia also details practices like grave incubation, where a righteous person lies on the grave of a sage or prophet to commune with their spirit, uniting souls to gain Torah insights.
• Devekut: This term refers to a mystical state of communion or clinging to God, achieved through meditative prayer or spiritual exercises. The book includes a prayer for devekut, which praises God’s greatness, wisdom, and dominion over creation, describing luminaries radiating divine brilliance.
These examples reflect the encyclopedia’s depth and utility as a reference. It functions like a dictionary, not a novel or narrative, so don’t expect an engaging, easy read. Instead, it excels as a tool for looking up unfamiliar terms while studying Judaism or delving into its mystical traditions. For anyone researching Jewish myth, magic, or mysticism, this book is an indispensable resource, offering clarity and context for complex spiritual concepts.

Reading Progress

The Siege of Gaza

Gates of Gaza

By: Amir Tibon

 Amir Tibon’s The Gates of Gaza is a gripping and poignant account of survival, resilience, and the complex history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, centered on the harrowing events of October 7, 2023. On that day, over 1,200 Israelis were brutally killed, with atrocities including rape, burning, and executions in front of families, while hundreds were taken hostage into Gaza. Tibon, a journalist from Tel Aviv living on Kibbutz Nahal Oz, survived this attack and weaves together a deeply personal narrative with a broader historical context.

Tibon’s storytelling excels in its vivid recounting of his experience during the attack, where he and his family were trapped in a safe room until rescued by his father and soldiers from the Maglan unit, who evacuated them to Kibbutz Mishmar HaEmek. The intensity of this ordeal reads like a cinematic thriller, yet it is grounded in raw human emotion. Beyond his personal story, Tibon provides a detailed history of Kibbutz Nahal Oz, established in 1951 by pioneers near the Gaza border, then under Egyptian control. The name Nahal Oz, meaning "Strength of the Pioneers" in Hebrew, reflects the kibbutz’s enduring spirit despite decades of violence, from Palestinian cross-border attacks in the 1950s to constant rocket fire after Hamas took control of Gaza in 2006. Tibon notes the kibbutz’s proximity to Gaza left it vulnerable, unprotected by Israel’s Iron Dome system, making rocket sirens and dashes to bomb shelters a grim routine.

The book also explores the broader human toll of the conflict. Tibon reflects on Moshe Dayan’s 1956 eulogy for a slain kibbutz member, which acknowledged both Israeli heroism and Palestinian suffering. This balanced perspective permeates Tibon’s narrative, as he expresses empathy for the pain felt on both sides while condemning the brutality of the October 7 attack, when 6,000 terrorists stormed Israel. His account challenges readers to reconsider their views on the conflict’s complexities.

Tibon praises U.S. President Joe Biden’s efforts to secure the release of hostages and support Israeli survivors. However, he sharply criticizes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of prioritizing power over security. Tibon argues that Netanyahu’s policies, including facilitating billions in Qatari funds to Hamas—intended for Gaza’s infrastructure but diverted to build a terror network—contributed to the disaster.

The Gates of Gaza is a powerful read that combines personal survival, historical insight, and a call for accountability. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the human and political dimensions of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Be warned: this book may reshape your perspective on the region’s ongoing struggles.

Ascension of the Watchers

 

William Henry’s The Watchers and the Path to Ascension is a captivating exploration of ancient spirituality, human transformation, and the enigmatic Watchers, offering a fresh perspective that challenges conventional narratives. Known for his appearances on Ancient Aliens, Henry diverges from the show’s extraterrestrial theories, instead weaving a compelling, spiritually rich tapestry that blends mythology, biblical texts, and global meditative traditions. This book is a must-read for those intrigued by the intersections of spirituality, history, and human potential.

Henry’s central thesis reimagines the Watchers—not as aliens descending from the cosmos, but as spiritual beings from a divine realm called Sion (distinct from earthly Zion or Jerusalem). Drawing from the apocryphal Book of Enoch (preserved in the Ethiopian Bible), he posits that these entities crossed a metaphysical barrier, taking physical form and interacting with humanity. This interaction, particularly their attraction to human women, sparked profound consequences, a narrative Henry explores with nuance and depth. Rather than sensationalizing, he frames the Watchers as divine instructors sent to guide humanity toward godliness, influencing ancient spiritual practices and even Christian concepts of resurrection.

What sets this book apart is Henry’s ability to connect diverse spiritual traditions—Hindu, Tibetan, Chinese, and Jewish—to a universal quest for ascension. He introduces the concept of spiritual “technology,” meditative techniques that enable humans to access higher realms, mirroring the Watchers’ descent. Henry details three transformative states: the spiritual body, the rainbow body, and the body of pure white light, each associated with ascending to heavenly realms. His vivid descriptions of “serpent-like” movements in these transitions evoke ancient accounts of spiritual travel, grounding esoteric ideas in accessible imagery.

Henry’s dive into Jewish history is equally compelling. He traces how Zoroastrian influences during the Babylonian exile reshaped Jewish beliefs, introducing concepts of heaven, hell, purgatory, and a messianic savior. This shift divided Jewish thought, with traditionalists (Sadducees) clinging to older beliefs and Pharisees embracing Persian-inspired ideas. Henry’s research is meticulous, drawing from Gnostic texts, biblical sources, and ancient art to support his arguments, all enhanced by the book’s stunning illustrations.

This heavily researched yet approachable work is a visual and intellectual feast, blending mythology, spirituality, and history into a cohesive narrative. Henry’s focus on human transformation and divine connection resonates, making The Watchers and the Path to Ascension a thought-provoking read for spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re drawn to the mysteries of the Book of Enoch or the universal quest for enlightenment, this book will leave you inspired to explore the divine potential within.

Rating: 4.5/5 – A profound, beautifully illustrated journey into ancient spirituality that challenges and enlightens.

Civilizations Hidden Origins

 

In Magicians of the Gods, Graham Hancock picks up where his groundbreaking work Fingerprints of the Gods left off, weaving a compelling narrative that challenges conventional archaeology and invites readers to reconsider humanity’s forgotten past. As an investigative journalist with a passion for unearthing hidden truths, Hancock embarks on a global quest to explore ancient sites and texts, proposing a bold hypothesis: we are a species with amnesia, heirs to a lost advanced civilization that predates recorded history.

Uncovering Ancient Mysteries

Hancock’s journey begins at Göbekli Tepe in southern Turkey, a recently excavated site buried deliberately by its builders around 12,000 years ago. This enigmatic complex, dating to the era of supposed hunter-gatherers, defies mainstream assumptions. Its massive, precisely carved monoliths—some weighing over 20 tons—feature intricate carvings that suggest a level of sophistication far beyond what conventional archaeology attributes to the period. The stones, fitted together with remarkable precision, raise a provocative question: how could a society without advanced tools create such a masterpiece? Hancock argues that Göbekli Tepe didn’t emerge in isolation but hints at a forgotten culture with advanced knowledge, a notion that challenges the academic status quo.

From Turkey, Hancock ventures to Mesopotamia, where civilizations like Sumer seem to appear fully formed, without the gradual evolution of building techniques expected by modern scholars. He delves into Sumerian mythology, particularly the Enuma Elish and the tale of Ziusudra, a righteous king warned by the god Enki to build an ark to survive a great flood—a story strikingly similar to the biblical Noah, yet predating it by potentially thousands of years. This recurring flood narrative, found across cultures, becomes a cornerstone of Hancock’s argument for a shared, ancient memory.

A Global Pattern of Anomalies

Hancock’s exploration spans continents, from the advanced stonework of South America to the enigmatic structures of Asia, revealing a pattern of architectural marvels that defy their supposed timelines. These sites, he argues, showcase techniques—such as precision stone-cutting and megalithic construction—that even modern technology struggles to replicate. Mainstream archaeology, Hancock contends, often dismisses or suppresses these anomalies because they threaten established theories, leaving critical questions unanswered.

Rejecting sensationalist claims of alien intervention, Hancock proposes a more grounded yet equally revolutionary theory: a highly advanced civilization existed before a cataclysmic event, possibly during the Younger Dryas period (circa 12,800–11,600 years ago). He points to geological evidence of a comet impact in North America, which may have triggered massive flooding and climate upheaval, submerging landmasses like the fabled Atlantis or Sundaland in Indonesia. Ancient texts, such as Egypt’s Edfu inscriptions and tales of the Sumerian Apkallu or “Watchers,” speak of wise survivors who preserved knowledge and seeded civilization anew among scattered human populations.

A Call to Heed the Past

Magicians of the Gods concludes with a sobering warning: the Younger Dryas cataclysm was not a one-time event. Hancock urges readers to take seriously the possibility of future cosmic impacts, drawing parallels between ancient warnings and modern scientific concerns about asteroid risks. By reconnecting with our forgotten past, he argues, we can better prepare for an uncertain future.

Why It’s a Must-Read

Hancock’s work is a thrilling blend of meticulous research, vivid storytelling, and bold speculation. While some may dismiss his theories as unorthodox, his ability to weave together archaeology, mythology, and science makes for a thought-provoking read. Magicians of the Gods challenges us to question the narrative of human progress and consider the possibility that our ancestors knew more than we give them credit for. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, Hancock’s global odyssey will leave you pondering the mysteries of our past—and the fragility of our future.