A new and exciting story entwined with magical realism and fantasy about a divine African American healer born in Los Angeles depicting the miracle of love.
Ever since Olisa was a child, her father has feared that the world might one day find out that his daughter is blessed with very special gifts.
On a fateful 4th of July, the renowned Venice Beach Boardwalk becomes the scene of a violent conflagration between Latino and Black gangs. People flee in all directions except for one woman who fearlessly cradles the head of a notorious gang leader who has been fatally stabbed. It seems like time has come to a standstill. The fighting ends, and the young man slowly rises to his feet, clutching his chest not from pain but from shock; a collective gasp is uttered. A random shout of "It's a miracle!" reverberates across the Boardwalk. A local reporter who captured this miracle on film will broadcast it worldwide. This supernatural event catapults this striking yet demure young Black woman to an unwanted fame overnight. Society’s reaction to finding a healer among them plays a major role in Olisa’s journey. Is she an angel, a curandera, or a shaman? Or is she a devil? Who is this woman? Will our multicultural society accept this gift, or will it seek to corrupt her into an icon, a diva, and a commercial entity? What is known is that the world’s survival may rest on her delicate shoulders. Follow her epic journey as a modern-day healer driven by faith and love.
Feathered Quill Book Reviews
"One Shining Soul is a rare gem: an epic story that satisfies the imagination with sci-fi fantasy, while it also makes readers think - maybe the good guys are having more fun than the bad guys and maybe miracles are as real as a belly rumbling for some hearty soul food."
Pacific Book Review
"One Shining Soul is a narrative with a genuinely surprising and emotional finish. It leaves behind a lingering sense of sacrifice, love, and a desire to see others thrive. It also provides a thought-provoking and inspirational perspective on family dynamics and the need for defining one’s purpose and pursuing it even in the face of adversity. Strongly recommended for people who value spiritual gifts, calling, and inward spiritual progress."
Booklife Review
"Wilson has written a call for love and grace. But for all its heady concerns and no-fooling miracles, One Shining Soul is blessedly down-to-Earth in its scenes,characterization, and understanding of life. That's a rarity in fiction that dares to imagine divinity walking among us today."
The Prairies Book Review
"This taut, provocative story that digs into the costs of power and the pressures of a world that seeks to mold extraordinary people, makes for a compelling and unforgettable read."
Foreword Clarion Reviews
"Exploring unity and neighborly love in a world corrupted by skewed media, One Shining Soul is an elaborate, inspiring novel... Action scenes, as when riots erupt after a concert where Olisa heals someone in front of the crowd, are relayed in cinematic detail that makes the magical realism of Olisa’s powers stirring."
San Francisco Book Review
"Wilson approaches the emergence of a savior in modern society from many different angles, raising possibilities that feel very real and shining a light on the less-than-savory sides of American media, religion, and capitalism. Wilson’s greatest skill is in this “what if” sort of writing, and it was the part of the book which I enjoyed the most."
D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
"The ability to wrap a miracle in a broader context of social, psychological, and racial inspection gives One Shining Soul an edge over any similar-sounding story of miracles and humanity’s reaction to them, making it exceptionally highly recommended for its depth and insights. Libraries and readers seeking a different kind of miracle story which embraces issues of Black experience, racial profiling, profit-making opportunities and visions, and the underlying definition and impact of a true miracle-giver will relish all the events and accompanying revelations that One Shining Soul delivers."
Reader Views Book Review
"One Shining Soul” is a powerful and timely novel. It is a story that inspires and provides a heartfelt reminder of what it means to stay grounded in humility and love while coursing through the challenges that life brings. Readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of magical realism will find much to appreciate here. This book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of holding on to hope, even in the face of overwhelming odds."
Los Angeles Book Review
"This is an interesting book that touches on themes of racial discrimination, family, faith, and sacrifice. I loved everything from the character development to the plot and themes. I would recommend One Shining Soul by Wayne L. Wilson to readers of fantasy fiction novels."
(Your reviews after reading the novel are always welcomed and appreciated.)