Los Angeles, California Nov 12, 2025 (Issuewire.com) - In a heartfelt blend of imagination, mystery, and divine inspiration, author Paul Martin releases his thought-provoking novel, “Blessed Memorial: Imaginings from Lectio Divina”. In it, readers follow the unlikely journey of Thomas Strongtree—a retired woodworker whose quiet life is disrupted when he stumbles upon a pack of decades-old police fingerprint cards and mugshots at a flea market. What begins as casual curiosity becomes a life-changing pursuit as Strongtree sets out to learn the fates of these once-labeled “youthful offenders.”
Martin uses this powerful premise to draw moving parallels between the lives of modern-day individuals and familiar biblical figures. His imaginative prose bridges the sacred and the secular with grace and realism. As Strongtree interviews the now-adult subjects, their stories mirror the Gospels in subtle yet poignant ways, reminding readers that truth and transformation can be found outside of stained glass windows.
The book has earned glowing praise from critics. The US Review of Books calls it “remarkable” and lauds Martin’s ability to make his characters relatable and his faith-based correlations meaningful without being heavy-handed. “Martin’s book leans into everyone ending up happy and extremely successful. This is an optimistic and hopeful read and will likely be enjoyed by many readers.”
A retired craftsman and Third Order Franciscan, Paul Martin writes from a place of humility, spiritual listening, and a deep love for storytelling. He and his wife of over forty years live in Ohio and have two grown children and three grandchildren.
“Blessed Memorial” is available now in print and digital formats.
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