MinistryWatch president Warren Smith has published his quarterly list of recent books. The list includes Charlie Peacock's debut novel, a study of myth by Martin Shaw, a book on confrontation by Bill Newton and a call to hospitality by Ian Simkins. The column ran on November 9, 2026, in the outlet's Editor's Notebook section. Smith gave his own short comments on each title.
What the List Contains
Peacock, a Grammy-winning music producer and songwriter, wrote Once Concealed, Now Revealed. The novel follows the Taylor family across two generations. After a violent attack on the youngest son, the older brother must face buried secrets. Smith says he interviewed Peacock on his program.
Smith also recommends Liturgies of the Wild: Myths That Make Us by Martin Shaw. Shaw is a mythographer and Christian thinker. The book describes a 101-night vigil in a Dartmoor forest. Shaw says that experience led him to embrace Christ. Smith credits his friend, artist Stephen Crotts, with the recommendation.
Smith names Confrontation: The Missing Element in Christlike Love by Bill Newton as a useful book for church leaders and small groups. Newton argues that avoiding hard conversations can harm others. Smith also points to Ian Simkins's book on hospitality, which urges readers to share meals and make room for others.
Context
MinistryWatch describes itself as a Christian ministry watchdog. Its president features book picks in a regular column. Smith notes that he is a fan of the Bosch television series. He read The Black Echo, the first book by Michael Connelly, to see how the story was adapted. Smith says he does not endorse the worldview of the author or the character. He also lists a historical novel set in East Texas in 1905 about a Methodist preacher, and Paul Kingsnorth's critique Against the Machine. Smith notes that Kingsnorth, like Shaw, is a recent convert to Christianity. MinistryWatch states that its content is free, but it asks readers to support its work with prayers and gifts.
What to Watch
Smith's column is a recommendation list, not a call to action. Readers who want more can read last quarter's list on the MinistryWatch site. The outlet has also linked to its interview with Peacock. Smith's full reviews and interviews are available on the site.
