Book Review: Latter-Day Cipher

I have decided that maybe it’s better to read books by authors you do not personally know. This is no judgement against the book Latter-Day Cipher. As a matter of fact, I really like the book, but more on that in a moment.

I’ve known the author, Latayne Scott, for many years. I’ve read some of her other works and sat in seminars under her leadership and teaching. She is one of the few people I’ve met that I would consider brilliant. Her depth of theological understanding and her ability to present subjects in a clear and understandable manner are highly developed. She has a great sense of humor which, in my experience, runs on the dry and slightly sarcastic side. It’s a joy to be around her.

Which is why it took me completely by surprise when the opening paragraphs of Latter-Day Cipher graphically present the first in a series of serial murders. It made me wonder if I had the right book. I did. And I’m glad. As I write this, I am slightly over halfway through the novel. You are safe from spoilers.

As a novelist, it seems to me that Latayne has a unique style, at least when coupled with this genre. Her flowing language and use of metaphorical imagery create a striking contrast to the topic at hand. Oftentimes, her poetic description of events make them seem all the more horrific.

Latter-Day Cipher flows well. Characters are introduced and fleshed out at a pleasing pace. Events roll along without getting bogged down. The story is well constructed. You won’t fall asleep reading this, unless you take medicine and read it when you go to bed, as do I. But that’s not the fault of the book. That’s the fault of restless leg syndrome.

The story is very compelling and engaging, but what really impresses me is the way she presents truth in an apologetical wrapper. Latayne draws on her extensive history and understanding of the Mormon culture and weaves its secrets into an astounding tapestry. The truths of Christianity shine when compared with the falsehoods embraced by the Mormons of Latter-Day Cipher, and the Mormons of the world.

As I said, I have not completed the book. I look forward to finishing the journey, and I highly recommend you take it as well. Latter-Day Cipher by Latayne C. Scott. Best murder mystery I’ve ever read by someone I actually know.

Wings Point Aid to Nicaragua

Wings Point Ministries has shipped their first sound system to the mission field. Benny Baker heads up Mision Para Cristo in Nicaragua, a medical mission servicing the entire nation of Nicaragua. They were in need of a portable sound system to use as they travel from city to city dispensing aid. Also, one of the larger churches in the country had a place to meet but no means to be heard. God allowed Wings Point to provide for their needs.

On June 24, we delivered 2 sound systems to Global Samaritan Ministries in Abilene. Global Samaritan ships materials to mission points all over the world, including Mision Para Cristo in Nicaragua. Pictured here is David Catalina of Global and me as we stand by a portion of the system, delaying the men who were trying to load it. They had a serious production line going.

Each system we shipped consisted of 2 JBL Eon 305 speakers, a Soundcraft GigRac 600 powered mixer, speaker stands, mikes and cables. Benny tells me that they often use one speaker for their church and one speaker to set out in the street so the town can hear the gospel. That's what it's all about.

If you have any interest helping with future shipments, Wings Point is a non-profit entity. Any donations given are tax-deductible and will greatly help in spreading the Word of God to people who need to hear it around the world.

MLS

Anyone who knows me would probably assume I'm talking about Major League Soccer. Not this time. Since we are moving over the next couple of weeks, we have contracted a Realtor to deal with our house here in Midland. Therefore, MLS refers to the Multiple Listing System. At least I think that's what it stands for.

Anyway, our house can now be seen on Realtor.com at this link. Or you can just search our MLS number, which is 78589.

On another front, I enjoyed watching Gizmodo's live coverage of the WWDC keynote where they announced the new iPhone. I've waited 2 years for this one. My contract finally expired about 5 months ago, allowing me to upgrade around Christmas. I got phones for the family, but held off for mine. I suspected that there would be a new iPhone coming down the pike. I'm glad I waited. 3Gs 16G for me in late June! Whoohoo!