Bøger af Mark Stephen Taylor

The Lone Pine Western Series Trilogy contains three of the award-winning author's favorite western editions, full of memorable characters and Native American lore. "Three Days in Lone Pine" kicks off the series with a strange yet enlightening tale surrounding the historical first climbs (1873) of Mt. Whitney, highest peak in the contiguous USA, located amid the High Sierra Range of eastern California. The spirits of Indian legend regarding the early, ill-fated climbs do indeed come to life in this extremely well-written account, which brings an unforgettable cast of characters together and lays the groundwork for more of the same: "Still Waters: Legend of the White Wolf", and "Moon of the White Wolf" continue this unique series among the wondrous, standing rock formations of the area, where motion pictures have now been filmed for over eight decades. Mr. Taylor truly brings his stories to life amidst this rugged and picturesque landscape, and introduces characters to us that we will indeed long remember. What are you waiting for? Saddle up and ride along with us into the "Lone Pine Western Series"... Enjoy!

Do you believe in angels? In 1873 the town of Lone Pine, California came to believe in them. Lone Pine is the home of Mt. Whitney, highest mountain in the contiguous United States, towering some 14, 497 feet. The white granite range of the High Sierra has been around for several thousand years, its towering spires unique in North America. However, the first recorded climb to this peak was not until August 18th, 1873, when three local fishermen braved the lofty crags and reached its elusive summit. Prior to that, there had been many attempts, but recorded history tells us those climbers who made the attempts never ended up on the right peak! Some of them did not return, and were never heard from again. Hundreds of peaks point skyward in this range of mountains, and though Mt. Whitney is the highest, it remained the most elusive for decades. But Indian legends tell of evil spirits that once made their abode atop this very mountain. From this great height it was believed that these dark forces planned their wicked strategies against our entire country. It was their mountain! The Indian legends also foretold of a time when the evil would be no more; a time when men and women would freely hike the mountain and experience the wonder and exhilaration it could produce within one's spirit. According to those legends, and according to an old diary found in the hills just west of Lone Pine, that time did arrive. It was in August of 1873, when the most powerful leader of the angelic host paid an unannounced visit to the town. After his Three Days in Lone Pine, the mountain, the birds and the animals...even the people, would never be the same...

Bear Claw is the renown Chief of 1870's Lone Pine California Shoshone in the author's 'Lone Pine Western Series', which stirring arrangement includes; "Three Days in Lone Pine", "Still Waters, Legend of the White Wolf", and, "Moon of the White Wolf". Readers of this most enlightening series have expressed a desire to know more about Bear Claw-his roots, his upbringing, and details of the man's life prior to his first appearance as the aged and all-wise Shoshone Chief in, "Three Days in Lone Pine", first published in 2010. This particular edition of the series will attempt to satisfy that compelling desire, while at the same time bring to life an informative tale of Lone Pine's early days and the alluring characters that were a part of it. Lone Pine, just below the great Mt. Whitney, is indeed a unique place-even to this day. This historic California town of the old west is nestled among vast and colorful standing rock formations, where numerous pinnacles reach toward the sky in an awesome display. The author's well-written and notably descriptive tales do indeed come to life amidst the breathtaking landscape of the Mt. Whitney region. This most picturesque area has been used quite frequently as a scenic backdrop by the motion picture industry for over eight decades. And now, from this awe-inspiring backdrop, the author brings forth to his readers one of the most captivating tales in the Lone Pine Western Series...

This particular book was designed especially for all hikers who have a love of the high country. The volume contains daily meditations, quite carefully selected from the Bible, and arranged in a manner so as to teach, enlighten, and bring inspiration along the high trails. This is indeed a perpetual volume, in that it never ceases to encourage. The words of God endure forever, and so new insights are gleaned each time that we read through them, time after time.My personal wanderings into the high country were and continue to be my best times with God-alone or with others. It is there where I can so vividly encounter the wonders of His creation. My varied experiences and the grace of God have allowed me to indeed behold the supernatural through the natural amidst the high rocks, and among the vast, captivating desert landscapes as well. The Scriptures that I have selected for this devotional are like a mere drop of water in a heavy downpour of rain. Yet, a single drop of water in a barren wasteland would be a find of great significance to one who is truly thirsty-one who yearns for meaningful and satisfying enlightenment.I hope that you will choose to carry this edition of 'Mountain Meditations' along with you in your day-pouch or backpack the very next time you hike the high trails-or any trails for that matter. It can open your eyes to many things, as you associate the wonders around you with the entirely spiritual, Biblical precepts that you are about to read, meditate upon, and gain insight from each day. There is no human philosophy nor Biblical commentary associated with this volume. The Scriptures are the greatest treasure on earth, and in and of themselves serve to arouse the heart and stimulate ones thinking along the trail to maturity-nothing else is needed. They are the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Have a great journey!

Welcome to another Lone Pine Western by award-winning author, Mark Stephen Taylor. Moon of the White Wolf, an untold tale of the High Sierra, 1874, is a journey amidst the heartbeat of the High Sierra; Lone Pine California and Mount Whitney-the highest mountain in the contiguous U.S.A. This is a continuation of the legend of the great, white wolf, first introduced in the author's work, Still Waters: Legend of the White Wolf. In this enduring sequel, the town of Lone Pine and surrounding ranches, as well as the village of the Shoshone, are threatened by an attack from the Paiute tribe to the south. This of course disrupts the ordinary lives of the story's characters, but when the great white wolf returns to the area under a harvest moon, there is indeed great hope. However, not all believe in the legendary white wolf. Yet, during the human struggle for understanding, a memorable cast of characters lives are brought together in an unforgettable way in this great story of the early west. The outcome is most profound. Enjoy!

There are a myriad of books and pamphlets out there in the world concerning the end times-the end of the world as we know it. Some have bits and pieces of accurate information, but most do not. Those that do not are for the most part based on interpretations of Biblical prophecy and related Scriptures-interpretations by those folk's who truly have no in-depth spiritual understanding of such things. But actually the Bible paints for us a very clear picture of the end times-it's just a matter of studying intelligently-spiritually-without attaching to it all the man-made sensationalism. Of course there is no doubt that it will be a sensational series of events, to say the very least, but it need not be a 'great mystery' since the circumstances surrounding the events are clearly revealed in the truths of the Scriptures. The Bible is God's only written revelation to us in this day and age. He is therefore not going to leave us uniformed regarding the end chapter of this present world-of this present condition of the creation. Yet, false interpretations of God's truth abound. It is indeed a mad, mad, mad world that we are a part of. There are so many differing religions, so many divisions, so many negative attitudes and ideas, and so many who are not willing to be reasonable in their thinking regarding the truth. This is the work of Satan in the world, as it presently remains his domain. He currently has the authority to corrupt the earth's inhabitants, and he does this work quite well. You can be assured that he will attempt to keep you from learning the truth. (Luke 4:6, 1st Peter 5:8). Therefore I hope the seeds of this book will find themselves in the fertile soil of good-hearted readers-who have the ability to reason.

* The Secret of Monument Valley(Volume 2 in the Florea/Holland Mystery Series)... According to the so-called experts, in about 1450 AD, an exceedingly prosperous generation of Native Americans, known then as the Anasazi, vanished from their strongholds in the American Southwest--disappeared without so much as a trace. However, the Native Americans of the present day Navajo Nation dispute the theoretical findings of modern day archeologists and anthropologists. In fact, the Navajos claim that a sovereign remnant of the Anasazi currently dwells among them! It's time to tag along once again with treasure hunter, Rod Florea, and trail expert, Mitch Holland (Prequel: The Sun, The Glass, and the Leaning Rock), as they make a predestined journey into the desert southwest, most eager to solve this enduring mystery once and for all. Based on actual accounts from Native American residents of the Navajo Nation, award-winning author Mark Stephen Taylor thrusts his characters into the heart of this most interesting controversy. What they must endure is indeed most shocking. What they will find is most profoundly enlightening! Florea and Holland, accompanied by White Eagle, who claims to be the last surviving elder of the Anasazi, challenge the prevailing philosophies, following a five hundred year old trail from Chaco Canyon across the rugged, desert southwest into Monument Valley. It is along this trail and among the towering sentinels of the Navajo Tribal Park that the secret of Monument Valley and the trail of the Anasazi are revealed to the world. Are you ready to hike along? Watch out for the opposing forces, which stem from the very halls of government, and will resort even to kidnapping and murder to thwart the purpose of this monumental journey!

*HOLIDAY EDITION: 'A High Sierra Christmas' is a tale of the West, narrated in the 'old west' style. It's a story of Jeremiah Johnson and his 'later in life' adventures in the High Sierra-Nevada mountain range of California. Two old cowboys, looking for gold, seek out Johnson and ask him to guide them to their dreams across the rugged High Sierra. In this fireside tale, Jeremiah and his Indian friend, John Windwalker, embark on that adventure with his visiting young nieces, Carrie and Hannah, and his nephew, Marc. The group rides out on a difficult journey up the east side of the majestic, white graniterange, headed toward Mineral King on its western slopes. But, when the bank in Big Pineis robbed, three lawless men in their getaway head up the trail right behind them. What happens next is a long way from what you might expect. For young and old alike, it's for sure a Christmas to remember. You'd best saddle up and ride along!

Welcome to another Lone Pine Western by award-winning author, Mark Stephen Taylor. STILL WATERS is a journey amidst the heartbeat of the High Sierra; Lone Pine California and Mount Whitney-the highest mountain in the contiguous U.S.A. This is a story of the great, white wolf, who in legend takes on the spirit of a Native American man and seeks to protect both the animals and the people of 1874 Lone Pine. Within this writing a memorable cast of characters come to life, whose individual lives are changed for the better through their confrontation and association with the legendary white wolf. Journey with them now to the Still Waters of Serrano Ridge-your own life may turn out to be much richer for it.

LONE PINE: A Story of Love Undying... There are those who truly know what love is all about, and there are those who do not. This is a tragic yet incredibly heartwarming story about those who do. Narrated by Stands With The Bear of the Shoshone Nation, you are about to embark on a journey into the lives of four very intimate friends, who make their abode in Lone Pine, California; home of Mt. Whitney, highest mountain in the contiguous United States, located in the bold, majestic range of the High and mighty Sierra-Nevada. This story takes you from the very beginning of their rewarding journey together, to probing into the incredible depth of their individual lives, and highlighting their most profound adventures into reality as a group. It is a story of how they eventually become one in spirit, and soar as individuals into a unique realm of understanding and bond of love that few humans ever experience, yet would surely grab onto the opportunity to do so. Accordingly, this knowledgeable perception of love is truly obtainable. From award-winning author and explorer, Mark Stephen Taylor, this story of ordinary, careworn human beings, graciously transformed by the wonders of their environment, explores the diverse tragedies and rewards that come with self-discovery in the world in which we are all a part of. Taylor's writing style and insight are once again evident in this astonishingly down to earth tale of faith, hope and love undying. Come and hike along with his undisguised characters and see for yourself...

Welcome! This book, A Broken Spirit, a Contrite Heart, is book #8 in my Hiking the Trail of Truth series. I have received several requests regarding the subject matter, which material covers an in depth look for all of those who are willing and want to learn and to understand what God requires of them. And what does God require of you? Moses once answered, "To fear the Lord your God, to walk in His ways and love Him, and to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the Lord's commandments and His statutes which I am commanding you this day for your good" (Deuteronomy 10:12,13). Micah completes this thought by saying that one is required to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8). These are indeed spiritual sacrifices, not physical ones as were required under the old law. Jesus of course made the ultimate sacrifice, yet we as individuals are required to make important sacrifices as well, which is why this book was written. Our most essential sacrifice? The psalmist makes it clear: "O, Lord open my lips, and my mouth shall show forth Your praise. For you do not desire sacrifice (physical) or I would give it. You do not delight in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart-These, O God, You will not despise (Psalm 51:15-17). Let us hike this section of the trail of truth together, dear reader, and let us endeavor to understand the depth and importance of this particular sacrifice required of us...a broken spirit, a contrite heart... Sincerely, M S Taylor

'Knowing Just Who You Are' is truly a journey into self. Award winning author Mark Stephen Taylor (Hiking the Trail of Truth) leads us to discoveries that are profoundly eye opening... This unique treatise on body, mind and spirit takes us on a search for self that exposes the utter realities of human nature that we all must deal with on a daily basis. He takes us back in time and helps us to have a clearer understanding regarding the plight of the human race. Through a detailed overview of mankind's dilemma, he attempts to enlighten us as to just why things are the way they are in the world, yet shows us that these things are necessary elements in our comprehending the universe as we know it. He also gives us some insights into the physical earth itself, which allow us to attain a knowledge that is most productive. Through the accordant information we gain from this entire writing we are able to come to an in depth understanding of self that helps us to better deal with life's many challenges-things like failure, doubt, affliction, fear, despair, loneliness, pain and suffering, anxiety, desire and passion. He also opens our eyes to our natural human faults and personal failures, and gives us a clearer understanding of just why they are present. Most importantly; through all of this he educates us on how to attain true peace and contentment amidst life's circumstances, and then hold onto it throughout the varied storms of life-a most informative read!

*The Sun, The Glass, and The Leaning Rock; the secret of the Lost Dutchman's gold. (Volume 1 in the Florea/Holland Mystery Series, & also published as 'A Second Chance')... This is indeed a daring tale of high adventure, of friendships, of romance, of loyalties and betrayals, and of great personal danger in the lives of ordinary people. This tale combines a tricolor of excitement, yielding the grand adventure of 'Raiders of the Lost Ark', the enchantment and humor of 'Romancing the Stone', and the suspenseful who-done-it of Sherlock Holmes--hang on tight! The story opens in the year 1984, but centers on the 1924 discovery of the 'Lost Dutchman's Mine' in Arizona, the inevitable misfortune of it's discoverer, and the strange fate of the loot itself. A treasure map, an unusual necklace, and a simple nursery rhyme set the stage for double murder, betrayal, kidnapping, and unrelenting drama in this tale of the high desert. An unemployed ex-cop and his two friends become entwined in this adventure-mystery, which takes the reader from Boston to Arizona, from Ohio to California, and finally into the harsh, Nevada desert, where the good guys meet the bad guys in a final, head-on confrontation. Both want to unlock the treasure's secret--'the sun, the glass, and the leaning rock, tell you when it's four o' clock.' If you're ready to jump out of an airplane on a foggy night, hopefully land unscathed in rugged terrain, repel from a high cliff on a short rope, take an eerie night stroll across miles of barren desert, find your way through an unyielding sandstorm, escape a deadly confrontation with rattlesnakes, pass through the turbulent waters of a flash flood, leap from a high-rolling flatcar on a train ride to terror, and in the meantime solve all the 'who-done-it' before the astonishing climax--then you are more than welcome to the millions in gold that lay hidden within a dark, abandoned void, somewhere near Ely, Nevada.

The Florea & Holland Mystery Series Trilogy contains three of the award-winning author's favorite mystery editions, full of memorable characters and journeys into the American southwest's most scenic places. "The Secret of Monument Valley" kicks off the series and explores the disappearance of the Anasazi people from the land of New Mexico. "Treasure of the High Sierra" then takes our characters to Mount Whitney, highest mountain in the contiguous USA, where a search for old Spanish treasure leads to a hair-raising encounter with pirates long dead. The final edition in the series, "The Secret of Death Valley", unravels the Native American side of the legend regarding the 'moving rocks' at Racetrack Playa. Mr. Taylor truly brings his stories to life amidst these rugged and picturesque landscapes, and introduces characters to us in three stories based on actual events that we will indeed long remember. What are you waiting for? Let's then head into these scenic areas and get involved in the mysteries!

*Treasure of the High Sierra: Dead Men's Gold (Volume 3 in the Florea/Holland Mystery Series)... Old Spanish gold-and pirate's treasure's...things like this usually arouse our interest-and for sure stir our imaginations. Mr. Taylor's 'Treasure of the High Sierra' is no disappointment in this regard. In this 3rd mystery of the series, tracker/cartographer Mitch Holland and treasure hunter Rod Florea find themselves on Mt. Whitney (California), highest mountain in the contiguous USA. It is there that they come to the aid of two teenagers who are looking for hidden Spanish Gold. An old map purchased at a yard sale turns out to be quite authentic, and the 16th century pirate tale that gives the map that authenticity is indeed a bone-chilling account. Kidnapping, murder, and a macabre pirate curse are only a few of the things that Holland and Florea must deal with as they take on this challenge atop the high mountain. Elite members of the Forest Service are also involved, along with the families of the two teenagers (Billy Brandt and Riley Taylor). Then there are the troubled spirits of pirates long dead... Are you ready? The great thing about this particular author is that all you have to do is turn the pages, yet you will find yourself right there in the middle of it all-living the story! Sincerely, The HTTOT Staff

*A Second Chance (Also published as 'The Sun, The Glass, and The Leaning Rock'), Volume 1 in the Florea/Holland Mystery Series... A SECOND CHANCE (original edition) is a thrilling story of high adventure, of friendships, of romance, of loyalties and betrayals, and of great personal danger in the lives of ordinary people. This tale combines a tricolor of excitement, yielding the grand adventure of 'Raiders of the Lost Ark', the enchantment and humor of 'Romancing the Stone', and the suspenseful who-done-it of Sherlock Holmes--hang on tight! The story opens in the year 1984, but centers on the 1924 discovery of the 'Lost Dutchman's Mine' in Arizona, the inevitable misfortune of its discoverer, and the strange fate of the loot itself. A treasure map, an unusual necklace, and a simple nursery rhyme set the stage for double murder, betrayal, kidnapping, and unrelenting drama in this tale of the high desert. An unemployed ex-cop and his two friends become entwined in this adventure-mystery, which takes the reader from Boston to Arizona, from Ohio to California, and finally into the harsh, Nevada desert, where the good guys meet the bad guys in a final, head-on confrontation. Both want to unlock the treasure's secret--'the sun, the glass, and the leaning rock, tell you when it's four o' clock'. If you're ready to jump out of an airplane on a foggy night, hopefully land unscathed in rugged terrain, repel from a high cliff on a short rope, take an eerie night stroll across miles of barren desert, find your way through an unyielding sandstorm, escape a deadly confrontation with rattlesnakes, pass through the turbulent waters of a flash flood, leap from a high-rolling flatcar on a train ride to terror, and in the meantime solve all the 'who-done-it' before the astonishing climax--then you are more than welcome to the millions in gold that lay hidden within a dark, abandoned void, somewhere near Ely, Nevada.

Hiking Life's Difficult Trails is a spiritual journey--an arduous challenge. This particular journey is better suited to folk's who have learned to live with remorse--earned through a broad diversity of loss, pain and suffering. There are those who in time develop what it takes to negotiate difficult terrain in life, and there are those who do not. Yet, to have what it takes has only one requirement--humility. We all fail in one way or another each day. Admit it or not, we just can't seem to attain perfection. We usually blame God for our inability to live as we should, but then praise Him when He allows things to get a little better. We just can't seem to find a way to be content in our circumstances, and be thankful for both the good ones and the bad ones. But, the bottom line is, we actually have some profound misunderstandings--about life, about circumstances, and about God Himself. It's time once again to hike along with award-winning author, Mark Stephen Taylor. In this second volume, he takes us back to the Wilderness Trail--not just to trek along its rim, but to explore its depths--to hike up its buttes, among its sharp crags, and into its areas of parched desolation. Mr. Taylor helps us to better understand the difficulties of this earthly life, and leads us along a most profound trail of discovery, illumination, and hope. Hiking is indeed great therapy. So, what are you waiting for? Come along--lets do it!

ILLUMINATION, a Hike into the High Country, is the exhilarating story of searching for, discovering, and attempting to fulfill a purpose in life-your individual purpose. It can indeed be a most illuminating trek-if you're willing.Have you ever hiked the high places of the earth? Have you trekked through the deserts of the American southwest, or hiked among the formations in our many National Parks? Hiking can be quite inspirational and is good for you physically as well. Consider if you will that the human brain is more complex than any man-made computer will ever be. It can allow you some profound discoveries that have not yet surfaced-but in time could... Your trek through this particular writing may indeed be the most illuminating adventure of your lifetime...Are you ready? Hang on tight! The greatest thing about this most descriptive author is that as you turn the pages, you will find yourself right there in the middle of it all-living and breathing the story, and perhaps find yourself gleaning essential and purposeful understanding...

The desire to know God is universal-we want to understand our connection. Have you ever hiked the high mountains or explored the deserts of the American southwest? Have you wandered inquisitively through a thick forest, or just sat down beside a rushing stream? Have you pondered the intricate design of a flower or discovered the water canals in a single blade of grass? Have you considered the majesty of the birds or the way of the animals? The greatest Artist in all the universe created each of these things. They know the Artist and can teach you how deeply He cares for you as a human being. You are about to embark on an illuminating journey in the company of author Mark Stephen Taylor. A former California police officer, educated in criminal psychology, geology, and now a Biblical teacher and counselor, Mark offers us unique insights into the profound attributes of God, through His creation. He also enlightens us, with intense honesty, regarding who we are, what we are, and where we're going. He helps us to understand our purpose in life. Through his own autobiography He hikes us over a diversity of terrain, allowing us to make personal discoveries beyond any expectation. Hiking the Trail of Truth is the adventure of a lifetime. If you have what it takes to endure the journey it will be remarkably well worth your time. Whether you are an artist, a scientist, a doctor, a lawyer, a teacher, a preacher, an executive, an office worker or a laborer of any kind-no matter what your calling in life-you will be both physically and spiritually nourished by this hike. Do you enjoy hiking? Well, what are you waiting for? Come along-let's do it! Summary by Sandra M. Eisenhower, Artist, Petaluma, CA.