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The Black or White Chronicles #1
Abiding Darkness
Even though their families are of differing faiths and of different races, seven-year-old Missy Parker, her big brother Bobby, and her best friend Junior Washington are inseparable, but the struggle between good and evil ensues when a demon targets non-Christian Missy and creates havoc throughout her childhood, family, and community. Originally published as Black or White. 75,000 first printing.
339 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2005
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
December 19, 2021
What a fascinating story!
June 3, 2008
A great Christian fiction on Spiritual Warfare.
September 14, 2017
I don't like Christian Fiction written only to proselytize. The story had great potential but I gave up about halfway through. The story was drowned in an evangelistic message. Christians don't necessarily need to hear the gospel message again and those who need to hear it would never read through such a heavy handed approach.
September 15, 2007
I have a big pile of books to read. By and large, I tackle them in the order I get them. Lately, fiction has been in the minority on my bookshelves.
I had never heard of Anderson, or this “Black Or White” trilogy. A few days ago, I cracked open the first book, “Abiding Darkness“…mainly because I was a bit tired of reading theology.
And only a few days later, I’ve finished it. That should tell you something.
Anderson is originally from Mississippi, and he sets this book in the cotton country of his home state, circa 1945. It’s a well-written glimpse into the time period…it’s obvious he’s done his research. The characters are multi-faceted, very interesting, yet not at all predictable. I had to flip back to the introductory pages numerous times to keep up with who was moving in and out of the narrative…but I didn’t find that to be distracting; I was thankful for the information.
There is a strong spiritual theme throughout, reminiscent of Frank Peretti’s “This Present Darkness”…but only reminiscent. Anderson presents his glimpses into angelic and demonic activity in a fresh way. It left me wanting more interaction with those spiritual beings instead of the brief snapshots (in just the right places, by the way).
Missy, the main character, took me quite a few chapters to understand. By halfway through, I was right alongside her as her friend, deeply caring about every move.
This is probably the best fiction I’ve read since the aforementioned Peretti series. Needless to say, the next book in the trilogy, “Wedgewood Grey”, has moved up in the stack.
I had never heard of Anderson, or this “Black Or White” trilogy. A few days ago, I cracked open the first book, “Abiding Darkness“…mainly because I was a bit tired of reading theology.
And only a few days later, I’ve finished it. That should tell you something.
Anderson is originally from Mississippi, and he sets this book in the cotton country of his home state, circa 1945. It’s a well-written glimpse into the time period…it’s obvious he’s done his research. The characters are multi-faceted, very interesting, yet not at all predictable. I had to flip back to the introductory pages numerous times to keep up with who was moving in and out of the narrative…but I didn’t find that to be distracting; I was thankful for the information.
There is a strong spiritual theme throughout, reminiscent of Frank Peretti’s “This Present Darkness”…but only reminiscent. Anderson presents his glimpses into angelic and demonic activity in a fresh way. It left me wanting more interaction with those spiritual beings instead of the brief snapshots (in just the right places, by the way).
Missy, the main character, took me quite a few chapters to understand. By halfway through, I was right alongside her as her friend, deeply caring about every move.
This is probably the best fiction I’ve read since the aforementioned Peretti series. Needless to say, the next book in the trilogy, “Wedgewood Grey”, has moved up in the stack.
February 3, 2008
This in an Advance Reader Copy that I won through Bookreporter.com
There was turmoil in Mississippi in 1945. Race relations were tense, money segregated, and good versus evil went to war at Cat Lake. Missy Parker, a wealthy young white girl of just seven, is the target of a horrific attack. After her best friend, the son of a black sharecropper, saves her by giving his own life, she takes on a life mission she wont truly comprehend for years to come. As the families of these two children realize the truth of what happened that day at Cat Lake, their lives are forever connected. Torn between a life simple and ignorant, or one complicated by Truth, Missy Parker must come to terms with the battle shes been thrown into….and either win it, or watch her loved ones die trying.
I was actually quite surprised that I enjoyed this book. It’s not something I would have picked up to read on my own. It’s a really good book
There was turmoil in Mississippi in 1945. Race relations were tense, money segregated, and good versus evil went to war at Cat Lake. Missy Parker, a wealthy young white girl of just seven, is the target of a horrific attack. After her best friend, the son of a black sharecropper, saves her by giving his own life, she takes on a life mission she wont truly comprehend for years to come. As the families of these two children realize the truth of what happened that day at Cat Lake, their lives are forever connected. Torn between a life simple and ignorant, or one complicated by Truth, Missy Parker must come to terms with the battle shes been thrown into….and either win it, or watch her loved ones die trying.
I was actually quite surprised that I enjoyed this book. It’s not something I would have picked up to read on my own. It’s a really good book
September 29, 2017
Abiding Darkness will show you the light !
I love ,love , love this book ! I have cried at least three times it not more through out the different stories that make up this book. I have had to pause to reflect and absorb the important messages it has given me , all the while I am enjoying one of the best stories I have ever read. I am sincerely praying for it to never end. Wow John Aubrey Anderson you hit this one out of the park . Thank you for sharing it with me and the world . Don't miss reading this it is one of the best.
I love ,love , love this book ! I have cried at least three times it not more through out the different stories that make up this book. I have had to pause to reflect and absorb the important messages it has given me , all the while I am enjoying one of the best stories I have ever read. I am sincerely praying for it to never end. Wow John Aubrey Anderson you hit this one out of the park . Thank you for sharing it with me and the world . Don't miss reading this it is one of the best.
April 20, 2015
Aweful Ending
November 17, 2021
Loved it, amazing book. Can’t wait to get the next two
March 26, 2021
"Abiding Darkness" is a story of spiritual warfare, between good and evil, angels and demons, white and black. The beginning portion explaining the possession of many cotton-mouths by demons who then seek to kill children had me glued to the pages like I never have been before. However, there is a catch to this. It is explained how God has allowed a time and place for those who can put a stop to the advance of the enemy, and the attacks upon the innocents.
This book then goes about telling many more stories about people and their places in the battles of good and evil, from the story in which a man tries to molest someone only to be kiled in self-defense and wake up in hell, to many more dark and light tales of which binds and looses people within and upon the world. I felt the points of "Jesus is the way", while a great message was a bit over-applied at times. It is good to see spiritual fiction in which good triumphs over evil and is infinitely stronger which is a fact not many people seek to broadcast.
We need more books like this; stories of good and its battle with evil which of which the outcomes of our spiritual battles may only be solved once we surrender ourselves to the God that created us and seeks to relentlessly save us from the evil one.
This book then goes about telling many more stories about people and their places in the battles of good and evil, from the story in which a man tries to molest someone only to be kiled in self-defense and wake up in hell, to many more dark and light tales of which binds and looses people within and upon the world. I felt the points of "Jesus is the way", while a great message was a bit over-applied at times. It is good to see spiritual fiction in which good triumphs over evil and is infinitely stronger which is a fact not many people seek to broadcast.
We need more books like this; stories of good and its battle with evil which of which the outcomes of our spiritual battles may only be solved once we surrender ourselves to the God that created us and seeks to relentlessly save us from the evil one.
February 2, 2020
This book made me laugh and cry within the first 13% (kindle user . . .). I definitely could not predict what was going to happen, and by the middle of the book, I gave up trying to figure out who would live, who would die, who would be possessed by demons, who would get the girl, etc. . .and just enjoyed reading it.
In response to the critical review about the evangelism being overdone, I see the reviewer’ s point that Christians do not need to hear the gospel over and over. My argument for it being a good thing to be so prevalent in the book is that it convicted me of my own need to speak truth as often as the characters in this book did.
I’m anxious to read the rest of the series. I hope he tells us more about Pearl, the young man Mose helped in prison, and Polly. :)
In response to the critical review about the evangelism being overdone, I see the reviewer’ s point that Christians do not need to hear the gospel over and over. My argument for it being a good thing to be so prevalent in the book is that it convicted me of my own need to speak truth as often as the characters in this book did.
I’m anxious to read the rest of the series. I hope he tells us more about Pearl, the young man Mose helped in prison, and Polly. :)
December 27, 2017
A compelling tale
Abiding darkness is a compelling tale that I almost didn't read. As an adoptive mother of a biracial child, I was dismayed that a racial slur was used. It certainly didn't need to be. That said, I did continue reading and am heartened to say the author redeemed himself with the portrayal of the friendship between the Washington's and the Parker's in a segregated south. A worthy read. Should the author ever republish, I'd suggest the removal of the slur.
Abiding darkness is a compelling tale that I almost didn't read. As an adoptive mother of a biracial child, I was dismayed that a racial slur was used. It certainly didn't need to be. That said, I did continue reading and am heartened to say the author redeemed himself with the portrayal of the friendship between the Washington's and the Parker's in a segregated south. A worthy read. Should the author ever republish, I'd suggest the removal of the slur.
November 16, 2018
I really enjoyed this book about the south. It reminded me of the small town I’m from.
It also made me look at demons and angels differently. While I knew they were real, the settings just proved how often they can come into our lives.
The best thing I found about Abiding Darkness was the truth of having a close relationship with God and maintaining it daily.
Thank you for writing this wonderful book!
It also made me look at demons and angels differently. While I knew they were real, the settings just proved how often they can come into our lives.
The best thing I found about Abiding Darkness was the truth of having a close relationship with God and maintaining it daily.
Thank you for writing this wonderful book!
December 1, 2018
I choose this book solely because of its title. What a hidden gem. As a Christian I can see that the author knows his fundamentals on the Christian faith. Bravo
I choose this book solely for its title.What a beautiful hidden gem
As Christian I can see the author knows his fundamentals.Thank you sir for making a believable stirring story about spiritual warfare. Bravo.
I choose this book solely for its title.What a beautiful hidden gem
As Christian I can see the author knows his fundamentals.Thank you sir for making a believable stirring story about spiritual warfare. Bravo.
May 3, 2019
Wonderful Read
After reading this book, I am giving it a 5 due to its suspense and Biblical accuracy. While one really does not know the kinds of words that transpire in the spirit world, this author did not over dramatize the probabilities of their conversations. Delightful read.
After reading this book, I am giving it a 5 due to its suspense and Biblical accuracy. While one really does not know the kinds of words that transpire in the spirit world, this author did not over dramatize the probabilities of their conversations. Delightful read.
November 12, 2023
Abiding Darkness
A Saul converted to Paul stays true to her beliefs is chosen amid heavy demonic forces waging war showing us we're on a battlefield daily and not to become complacent in believing we've won, it's only a temporary retreat while the enemy regroups for his next attack.
A Saul converted to Paul stays true to her beliefs is chosen amid heavy demonic forces waging war showing us we're on a battlefield daily and not to become complacent in believing we've won, it's only a temporary retreat while the enemy regroups for his next attack.
April 17, 2024
A bit mixed about this one. I do enjoy Christian thrillers, but this one got a bit too preachy and hippy for me in places. The ending made most-everything worthwhile. The lead character was super annoying and in terms of reaching a wider audience in terms of a broader outlook, the story suffered. A bit heavy-handed, but good story.
August 6, 2018
Wonderful!
I loved this first book in the series. John Aubrey Anderson has a great knack for writing great adventures mixed with great faith! I will definitely read the rest of the series.
I loved this first book in the series. John Aubrey Anderson has a great knack for writing great adventures mixed with great faith! I will definitely read the rest of the series.
February 3, 2019
The climax came too quick. I kept thinking the book was going to more exciting but was disappointed. It has a lot a meaning to it, its a Christian book. I just was bored and confused with the some of the time.
April 20, 2019
This sweeping saga weaves a riveting tale about a young girl's battle with one of hell's minions determined to destroy her and those closest to her. I read about 25% of this book, I just could not get into it.
May 3, 2019
Very good... lots of darkness
I really enjoyed how well the author understands the gospel and people! Sometimes it’s hard to read about all the ugly, evil and darkness in the world and people’s hearts but good always wins in the end.
I really enjoyed how well the author understands the gospel and people! Sometimes it’s hard to read about all the ugly, evil and darkness in the world and people’s hearts but good always wins in the end.
November 3, 2019
Fantastic
I needed to read this book. How much, God only knows. It's so good that I wish I could change ratings for most books I've read and rated so that these 5 stars stand out, as they should.
I needed to read this book. How much, God only knows. It's so good that I wish I could change ratings for most books I've read and rated so that these 5 stars stand out, as they should.
July 28, 2020
Great read!
I really enjoyed this book! I don't know how It ended up in my kindle library, because I don't remember downloading it. I decide to read it and couldn't stop. I can't wait to read the sequels!
I really enjoyed this book! I don't know how It ended up in my kindle library, because I don't remember downloading it. I decide to read it and couldn't stop. I can't wait to read the sequels!
June 29, 2021
Spiritual warfare at its best!
Wonderful characters that you get to know and love and even hate at times. The story development was excellent. I had to take a break sometimes from the intensity of it all.
Wonderful characters that you get to know and love and even hate at times. The story development was excellent. I had to take a break sometimes from the intensity of it all.
December 27, 2022
The 2020's version of This Present Darkness
A supernatural masterpiece about angels, demons, human beings, God and His Word. Having Black and White characters post Civil War makes the culture war as real as the spiritual one. Very well written tale of man's inhumanity to man.
A supernatural masterpiece about angels, demons, human beings, God and His Word. Having Black and White characters post Civil War makes the culture war as real as the spiritual one. Very well written tale of man's inhumanity to man.
August 2, 2017
Could not stop reading it
Great message, makes you stop and think. Well written and definitely keeps your interest. Can't wait to read the next one!
Great message, makes you stop and think. Well written and definitely keeps your interest. Can't wait to read the next one!
June 11, 2018
This Book just wasn't for me.
July 27, 2018
Good
this book takes you back to a time in the South when black people weren't treated equally.these people depened on each no matter what there color of skin.
this book takes you back to a time in the South when black people weren't treated equally.these people depened on each no matter what there color of skin.
October 4, 2018
Exciting and well written
Hard to put this book down. I don’t recommend it for bestie reading as it will keep you awake wondering what will happen next!
Hard to put this book down. I don’t recommend it for bestie reading as it will keep you awake wondering what will happen next!
February 14, 2019
Outstanding book that brings the reader c
This book was givose to God.en to me at a time of great need. Thank you for sharing your words and God',s word in such a beautiful story.
This book was givose to God.en to me at a time of great need. Thank you for sharing your words and God',s word in such a beautiful story.
April 5, 2019
Must Read
I absolutely loved this book and had a hard time putting it down. I can’t wait to read the others
I absolutely loved this book and had a hard time putting it down. I can’t wait to read the others
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews