In Two Images of God: Conflict by Brian P. Sheets, tensions flare as the Israeli Prime Minister proposes relocating Arab Muslims to establish a new state, sparking debates over territorial disputes and Temple Mount, also known as al-Aqsa. Meanwhile, clashes erupt at an archaeological site near Nahsholim, resulting in casualties, while fuel shortages pose risks for Arthur during a dogfight. Clancy orchestrates drone strikes on IWO leaders, unveiling internal Western Alliance divisions. Amid discussions in Abu Dhabi, news of a proposed Islamic state in Israel under UN conditions stirs tensions, further fueled by a drone strike in Harjiwan. Aarzam's plot to eliminate IWO rivals deepens Alliance fractures, as airstrikes and joint military actions intensify amidst global chaos orchestrated by Aarzam, prompting a united front led by Arthur and Pao in the escalating threat.

I have not read the first two novels in the Two Images of God series, book one, Quest, and book two, Discontent. However, this third installment, Conflict, is straightforward enough to read as a standalone. I like that there are multiple storylines and point-of-view characters and that the transitions between these are rapid. Brian P. Sheets does not waste a single word in the pursuit of keeping the pages turning at a clip, and the story is all the better for it. Some depictions favor stereotypes over character authenticity, but a hearty suspension of disbelief will aid in that. The best scenes are when the action takes control, and one in particular that has a major US city in peril is really spectacular. I'd go as far as saying that the threat preceding the hair-raising line, “They got Atlanta!” is pretty darn near cinematic. Overall, this is an entertaining read—so much so, that I've already devoured book four, Resolution.

Two Images of God: Conflict by Brian P. Sheets is a pulse-pounding thriller that thrusts readers into a world of international intrigue, terrorism, and high-stakes conflict. Set against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East and beyond, it starts with a compelling premise: an act of terrorism at the moment the Israeli Prime Minister makes an important peace announcement. Suddenly, the hope the announcement brings is shattered by a terrorist attack on an archeological site. The story explores the tensions between nations, terrorist organizations, and individuals caught in the crossfire. From the Israeli Prime Minister's bold treaty proposal to the coordinated terrorist attacks orchestrated by the Islamic World Order (IWO), the author meticulously crafts scenes that are disturbing yet resonant.

The characters are as diverse as they are well-developed. The dedicated intelligence analyst Arthur is a genuinely flawed character plagued by regrets over past decisions. He races against time to prevent further bloodshed. Abbas, an IWO strategist torn between loyalty to his cause and a desire for peace, faces a moral dilemma that could shape the course of the conflict. The ambitious military leader Clancy navigates treacherous waters to rally Western Alliance support against the IWO. The pacing is brisk, and the tension builds through every page as readers follow tense negotiations, daring rescue missions, and devastating attacks. Brian P. Sheets’ writing crackles with energy and urgency, drawing readers into a world where every decision carries life-or-death consequences. Two Images of God: Conflict is a thought-provoking exploration of the nature of warfare, the fragility of peace, and human sacrifice in times of conflict. The author deftly examines how political and religious ideologies can tear the world apart. But then, is it worth it?

Brian P. Sheets' Two Images of God: Conflict opens with gripping intensity in a tumultuous landscape of political intrigue and religious tension. As the Israeli Prime Minister announces a controversial treaty to reshape the Middle East, an archaeological site near Nahsholim becomes the epicenter of chaos following a sudden terrorist attack. Meanwhile, Arthur and Jefferson navigate perilous skies, narrowly escaping a dogfight. Clancy, armed with intelligence, orders drone strikes targeting IWO leaders, but chaos ensues as Abbas narrowly evades a missile strike. In Abu Dhabi, Arab leaders struggle with the aftermath of the attacks, torn between retaliation and restraint. Amidst escalating tensions, Sayyid discovers treachery and vows revenge, while Aarzam orchestrates a calculated campaign of terror. As the Norwegian Classic cruise ship becomes a target, the tension escalates, leading to further devastation and a counterstrike by Western Alliance forces. Now, a series of coordinated attacks are orchestrated by IWO, pushing the world to the brink of all-out war.

Two Images of God: Conflict by Brian P. Sheets explores the heart of global turmoil and reflects the complex nature of religious and political conflict. The book highlights the perpetual struggle between good and evil, transcending religious boundaries to depict the universal human experience of suffering and resilience. Set against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East and beyond, the narrative follows a diverse cast of characters dealing with the aftermath of devastating attacks orchestrated by the IWO. From political leaders to ordinary citizens, each character faces moral dilemmas and struggles in navigating a world of violence and betrayal. The exploration of the human psyche in times of crisis is cleverly accomplished in this spellbinding work. As characters like Arthur and Abbas experience doubts and fears, they are forced to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and their world. Their introspective journeys augment the realism that permeates the narrative. From high-stakes political negotiations to pulse-pounding action sequences, the book offers a thrilling ride from start to finish. It is a cautionary tale examining geopolitical conflict fueled by religious conviction.

Two Images of God: Conflict is a work of fiction penned by author Brian P Sheets in the action, theological, and military subgenres, and is the third novel in the current series. The work contains references and non-graphic descriptions of wartime conflict. Readers are invited into a world plunged into chaos as leaders of the Western Alliance and Islamic World Order face assassination attempts, leading to global conflict as both sides unleash their weapons in a bid for dominance. Well-intentioned strategies for peace transform into tools for annihilation, unleashing arsenals on a massive scale, with dire consequences for innocent lives.

Author Brian P Sheets has once again crafted a gripping and thought-provoking experience for fans of this series, offering a stark portrayal of the destructive consequences of political and religious conflict. I loved the way that naturalistic dialogue and discussion were used to navigate the complexities of global warfare, highlighting the devastating impact on innocent lives caught in the crossfire by putting real people into the equation without the need for blocks of impersonal prose. The fast-paced narrative added to this sense of pace and kept me on the edge of my seat with plenty of twists as the opposing forces maneuvered for advantage amidst escalating tensions. Sheets's exploration of the futility of conflict and the potential for peace through dialogue and understanding resonated deeply, prompting reflection on the current state of global affairs in our own world. Overall, Two Images of God: Conflict serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need for cooperation and empathy in our world, and I’d recommend it to fans of intelligently penned action novels everywhere.