Storm: 1798-1800

This whole series is good to excellent. I had not read much historically about the Church in America until I read this series. It brings home the fact that America is drifting further away from God, and that it IS a war of powers and principalities. Good reading as well as informative.

What a terrific book. I devoured it in one sitting. I love most anything that has to do with Bill Bright's work and Mr. Cavanaughs writing style is terrific. I just picked up Fire and am a quarter of the way done with that one too. Also would recommend two books that Ted Dekker wrote, based on Bill Bright's notes and theology..."Blessed Child" and "A Man Called Blessed"

I wouldn't curl up with a history book because history leaves me cold. I just don't need to have my memory bogged down with dates when I can type a key word into Google and get the facts delivered to my fingertips. However, Bill Bright and Jack Cavanaugh have penned a fictional look at historical events in such a way that I was as intrigued with the truth behind the story as the story itself. The difference is in the living, breathing characters. Compelling, passionate young men drive this book forward to an exciting climax. Danger, suspense and a hint of romance make this novel a fast and entertaining read. I also appreciated the break down of the historical facts and fictional characters. I recommend this book to any history-phobes and those who like a great story. Not only is it all of the above, but it's well written, humorous and thought provoking. At some points poetic, other segments laugh out loud funny. I will never look at courtship quite the same way again. Read it for escapism, or to make history come alive, or just because.

Author Jack Cavanaugh, with help from the late Bill Bright, has added a third book to the popular Great Awakening" series. Storm is an historical novel set around the turn of the nineteenth century. Although darker in tone than its predecessors, Storm holds great Christian lessons and the familiar spirit of revival. Asa Rush is a struggling freshman at Yale College, a school facing struggles of its own. This once-Christian stronghold has nearly lost its faith. The students are abandoning a life devoted to Christ in order to follow ideas of rebellion, imported from the French Revolution. Asa is one of the few Christians left, and must continually defend his beliefs to others. One student in particular who leads the charge against him is sophomore Eli Cooper. Asa and Eli are complete opposites, but the two seem to be drawn together. They are constantly stepping on each others' toes and their conversations often end with fists being thrown. Asa would love to get away from his nemesis, but God has other plans. He wants Asa to bring Eli to Christ. This is a task that is made even more difficult by the darkness and evil that is brewing on campus. Cavanaugh's style of writing is easy going. He uses short chapters, action, and a quick pace. The novel has an intriguing plot that keeps the reader turning pages, enjoying likeable characters. Although likeable, they are a bit exaggerated. Storm carries with it themes that most Christians can relate to, such as: being a believer among unbelievers; the struggle to follow God's will; and putting ultimate faith in the Creator. Asa embodies them all. He is in every respect a human, coming up short numerous times, but his drive and determine are inspiring, as is the novel. It is recommended for anyone who wants a powerful story about the strength of God. - Andrew Culbertson, Christian Book Previews.com

In 1798, Yale freshman Asa Rush is not your typical hero. He's not handsome, well-spoken or popular, but he does find favor with Yale's President, Timothy Dwight. Dwight makes no secret that he would like to see God put back into the curriculum and the student's hearts. Asa soon learns that sharing that vision with Dwight would not only involve a personal sacrifice that threatens everything he cares about, but could even cost him his life. Dwight requests a favor from Asa. Asa eagerly agrees until he learns the enormity of the request. He has asked Asa to befriend his arch rival, Eli Cooper. Not only is Eli pursuing the same woman Asa is in love with, but he tries to humiliate him every chance he gets. The hatred between the two men provides excellent conflict throughout this novel. Asa's amazing journey takes him from learning to obey God, to trying to prevent an insurrection to a final call to sacrifice. Through it all, Asa learns that revival must begin in his own heart. This historical novel is fantastic! The characterization is the best I've seen. The story itself is engrossing. After reading this stellar work, I was left feeling entertained, convicted and inspired. If you enjoyed Randy Alcorn's Safely Home, I think this book will appeal to you. Storm has made my top ten list.