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Recommend this book:
Among Kings
The Amazing Adventures of the Congo's African American Livingstone and the Courageous People who Toppled King Leopold II
Joey O'Connor
2021 Finalist
450 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Grace Masso for Readers' Favorite
Among Kings: The Amazing Adventures of the Congo's African American Livingstone and the Courageous People who Toppled King Leopold II by Joey O’Connor tells the story of one man’s courage as he becomes the voice of a voiceless and enslaved people, of the greed of a foreign king, and a tide that changed the history of a nation. It is also the story of the years of servitude of the people of the Congo, colonized by Belgium, and the acts of bravery that brought down the heartless occupier.
William Sheppard is a black American missionary and an explorer whose first visit to the Congo is met with insurmountable challenges as he and his friend, Samuel Lapsley, struggle to establish their first mission. Their travel along the Congo River is fraught with adversity and danger from the natural elements, wild animals, and unfriendly tribes. Faced with a tragedy at the mission, William sets out on adventures that will gain him respect among kings and governments. Desirous of reuniting with his fiancée, Lucy Gantt, he travels back to the US, but meets the country far worse than he has ever known it, with Jim Crow Laws and racism gaining ground every day. William returns to the Congo with Lucy and is appalled that King Leopold II has enslaved the entire nation for his rubber trade. With his camera, he designs a plan of activism that will bring down the greedy and inhuman colonizer.
Among Kings is a story that does a lot of justice to history, and readers with knowledge of King Leopold II’s colonization of the Congo will adore the book. It has strong moments and scenes that are terrifically written. From the experience of young Shamba, the descriptions of the tribes and their way of life, the setting in the heart of the jungle, to the experiences of the characters, the author takes readers on a journey to an exciting world that is possible in movies. I loved the strong imagery, the cunning plot, and the author’s intelligent handling of character. This book should be made into a movie. It is gripping, filled with pathos, and entertaining at the same time.
Among Kings: The Amazing Adventures of the Congo's African American Livingstone and the Courageous People who Toppled King Leopold II by Joey O’Connor tells the story of one man’s courage as he becomes the voice of a voiceless and enslaved people, of the greed of a foreign king, and a tide that changed the history of a nation. It is also the story of the years of servitude of the people of the Congo, colonized by Belgium, and the acts of bravery that brought down the heartless occupier.
William Sheppard is a black American missionary and an explorer whose first visit to the Congo is met with insurmountable challenges as he and his friend, Samuel Lapsley, struggle to establish their first mission. Their travel along the Congo River is fraught with adversity and danger from the natural elements, wild animals, and unfriendly tribes. Faced with a tragedy at the mission, William sets out on adventures that will gain him respect among kings and governments. Desirous of reuniting with his fiancée, Lucy Gantt, he travels back to the US, but meets the country far worse than he has ever known it, with Jim Crow Laws and racism gaining ground every day. William returns to the Congo with Lucy and is appalled that King Leopold II has enslaved the entire nation for his rubber trade. With his camera, he designs a plan of activism that will bring down the greedy and inhuman colonizer.
Among Kings is a story that does a lot of justice to history, and readers with knowledge of King Leopold II’s colonization of the Congo will adore the book. It has strong moments and scenes that are terrifically written. From the experience of young Shamba, the descriptions of the tribes and their way of life, the setting in the heart of the jungle, to the experiences of the characters, the author takes readers on a journey to an exciting world that is possible in movies. I loved the strong imagery, the cunning plot, and the author’s intelligent handling of character. This book should be made into a movie. It is gripping, filled with pathos, and entertaining at the same time.
Recommend this book:
Acts of Dreams
Part 3 of The Inquisition Trilogy
Martin Ivan Elsant
2021 Honorable Mention
234 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Heather Stockard for Readers' Favorite
Will and Maria Ames return to England, after their failed attempt to build a refuge for Inquisition victims. Instead of a warm welcome, they find only more trouble. Their recently fired lawyer, Nigel Chamberlain, has accused them of being secret Jews, which is true. He has been clandestinely gathering evidence in their absence and has more than enough to prove his case. If they are convicted, they will be expelled from England and lose everything. Will and the pregnant Maria cannot argue their innocence, so they decide instead to attempt to overturn the statute that forbids Jews from living in England. Their case will depend on the skill of their new lawyer, and the disposition of the judge, Christopher Hatton, one of Queen Elizabeth’s favorites whom she personally appointed to oversee the case. Hatton has his own misconceptions about the Jews, but his desire for religious peace, and his influence with the queen, may be the Ames’ only hope.
Martin Elsant’s Acts of Dreams: Part 3 of The Inquisition Trilogy is a fitting conclusion to his sweeping historical saga. The stage of characters includes a diverse array of illustrious historical and fictional personages, including Queen Elizabeth, Christopher Hatton, and Francis Drake. The action spans continents and oceans, from England to Spanish ports in far-off lands. Elsant has woven an intricate story with complex characters whose fates are interwoven and tied to a monarch whose whims will decide the future of them all. This book is a must-read for any historical fiction lovers.
Will and Maria Ames return to England, after their failed attempt to build a refuge for Inquisition victims. Instead of a warm welcome, they find only more trouble. Their recently fired lawyer, Nigel Chamberlain, has accused them of being secret Jews, which is true. He has been clandestinely gathering evidence in their absence and has more than enough to prove his case. If they are convicted, they will be expelled from England and lose everything. Will and the pregnant Maria cannot argue their innocence, so they decide instead to attempt to overturn the statute that forbids Jews from living in England. Their case will depend on the skill of their new lawyer, and the disposition of the judge, Christopher Hatton, one of Queen Elizabeth’s favorites whom she personally appointed to oversee the case. Hatton has his own misconceptions about the Jews, but his desire for religious peace, and his influence with the queen, may be the Ames’ only hope.
Martin Elsant’s Acts of Dreams: Part 3 of The Inquisition Trilogy is a fitting conclusion to his sweeping historical saga. The stage of characters includes a diverse array of illustrious historical and fictional personages, including Queen Elizabeth, Christopher Hatton, and Francis Drake. The action spans continents and oceans, from England to Spanish ports in far-off lands. Elsant has woven an intricate story with complex characters whose fates are interwoven and tied to a monarch whose whims will decide the future of them all. This book is a must-read for any historical fiction lovers.
Recommend this book:
When Dignity Came to Harlan
Rebecca Duvall Scott
2021 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Jennifer Ibiam for Readers' Favorite
In the early 1900s, the Atwoods left Leadwood, Missouri, because the lead mine stopped being productive. Their destination was Harlan, Kentucky, where there were alleged jobs at the coal mine. Ben and Laura Atwood agreed to split their children between homes in Harlan, where they could earn their keep. The parents promised to come back for them after they found jobs and settled. Jack and Grace Grainger got twelve-year-old Anna Beth and the two-year-old baby Olivia. Life was tough in the Grainger household, but Anna’s sister, Olivia, was all the determination she needed to keep on. However, a stand against bullying and another faceoff with the Durrett boys culminated in a series of events that changed her life forever. Find out what happened in When Dignity Came to Harlan by Rebecca Duvall Scott.
When Dignity Came to Harlan by Rebecca Duvall Scott is a thought-provoking story inspired by true events in her great-grandmother’s life. It is a tale of pain, grief, loss, betrayal, loyalty, sacrifice, immense strength, perseverance, and faith. This book was intense and left me emotional, from the dynamic plot to the captivating storyline. I loved the excellent character development, from Mr. Jingle to Grace, Carrie, and even Jack. Rebecca wrote a descriptive story that had me immersed and feeling the pain of Anna Beth. I asked why we victim shame, why it’s easier to believe the worst of people, why monsters have pristine societal standing, why confidants are talebearers? They are everywhere we look. Janie was a brave girl for making such a trip, and Mr. Jingle was the best gift for Anna. I loved Anna’s walk with God as a satisfying ending. Thank you for a beautiful story, Rebecca.
In the early 1900s, the Atwoods left Leadwood, Missouri, because the lead mine stopped being productive. Their destination was Harlan, Kentucky, where there were alleged jobs at the coal mine. Ben and Laura Atwood agreed to split their children between homes in Harlan, where they could earn their keep. The parents promised to come back for them after they found jobs and settled. Jack and Grace Grainger got twelve-year-old Anna Beth and the two-year-old baby Olivia. Life was tough in the Grainger household, but Anna’s sister, Olivia, was all the determination she needed to keep on. However, a stand against bullying and another faceoff with the Durrett boys culminated in a series of events that changed her life forever. Find out what happened in When Dignity Came to Harlan by Rebecca Duvall Scott.
When Dignity Came to Harlan by Rebecca Duvall Scott is a thought-provoking story inspired by true events in her great-grandmother’s life. It is a tale of pain, grief, loss, betrayal, loyalty, sacrifice, immense strength, perseverance, and faith. This book was intense and left me emotional, from the dynamic plot to the captivating storyline. I loved the excellent character development, from Mr. Jingle to Grace, Carrie, and even Jack. Rebecca wrote a descriptive story that had me immersed and feeling the pain of Anna Beth. I asked why we victim shame, why it’s easier to believe the worst of people, why monsters have pristine societal standing, why confidants are talebearers? They are everywhere we look. Janie was a brave girl for making such a trip, and Mr. Jingle was the best gift for Anna. I loved Anna’s walk with God as a satisfying ending. Thank you for a beautiful story, Rebecca.
Recommend this book:
Anointed
A David and Goliath Novel (The Davidic Chronicles) (Volume 1)
Greg S. Baker
2021 Silver Medal
220 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
Anointed: A David and Goliath Novel is an enthralling opening to The Davidic Chronicles by Greg S. Baker, a story that takes the reader back to ancient history and plunges them into the world of young David, the anointed one. The story begins with the prophet Samuel who visits Jesse with the news that the Lord has rejected Saul and is looking for a better man to lead His people. Jesse has strong faith in Samuel, whom he believes possesses the Lord’s words. He is stunned by Samuel’s revelation. To the utter surprise of everyone, Samuel wants young David, so he asks for David, insisting that there will be no feast until David comes. While the choice of the prophet shocks everyone, especially Jesse, David continues his adventures that include the ultimate encounter with Goliath, the jealousy and hatred of King Saul, and his experience of God’s power to deliver his people.
Greg S. Baker is not just a pastor but also a wonderful storyteller, taking a biblical tale and weaving it into a historical and cultural tapestry that keeps readers fascinated and inspired, bringing to light the prophetic nature of the story and the context in which it happened in history. The characters are both biblical and historical and the setting is the ancient land of Israel beset by multiple trials, most prominent among these being the Philistines. A spiritual atmosphere permeates the writing without robbing it of the humanity of the characters. I particularly enjoyed the way the author develops Samuel, Saul, and David. Elements of the setting — social, physical, and historical — are deftly written and the author shows a unique skill in exploring the conflict, allowing the dark emotions and resentment of Saul to come across powerfully. Anointed: A David and Goliath Novel is a tale that will delight readers while inspiring their faith through the skillful exploration of the grace of God in the life of a shepherd boy. The story is accompanied by relevant biblical citations. Anointed is a spellbinder that will have an irresistible appeal to readers who enjoy Christian literature and compelling historical novels.
Anointed: A David and Goliath Novel is an enthralling opening to The Davidic Chronicles by Greg S. Baker, a story that takes the reader back to ancient history and plunges them into the world of young David, the anointed one. The story begins with the prophet Samuel who visits Jesse with the news that the Lord has rejected Saul and is looking for a better man to lead His people. Jesse has strong faith in Samuel, whom he believes possesses the Lord’s words. He is stunned by Samuel’s revelation. To the utter surprise of everyone, Samuel wants young David, so he asks for David, insisting that there will be no feast until David comes. While the choice of the prophet shocks everyone, especially Jesse, David continues his adventures that include the ultimate encounter with Goliath, the jealousy and hatred of King Saul, and his experience of God’s power to deliver his people.
Greg S. Baker is not just a pastor but also a wonderful storyteller, taking a biblical tale and weaving it into a historical and cultural tapestry that keeps readers fascinated and inspired, bringing to light the prophetic nature of the story and the context in which it happened in history. The characters are both biblical and historical and the setting is the ancient land of Israel beset by multiple trials, most prominent among these being the Philistines. A spiritual atmosphere permeates the writing without robbing it of the humanity of the characters. I particularly enjoyed the way the author develops Samuel, Saul, and David. Elements of the setting — social, physical, and historical — are deftly written and the author shows a unique skill in exploring the conflict, allowing the dark emotions and resentment of Saul to come across powerfully. Anointed: A David and Goliath Novel is a tale that will delight readers while inspiring their faith through the skillful exploration of the grace of God in the life of a shepherd boy. The story is accompanied by relevant biblical citations. Anointed is a spellbinder that will have an irresistible appeal to readers who enjoy Christian literature and compelling historical novels.
Recommend this book:
Of Sword and Shadow
A.L. Sowards
2021 Gold Medal
332 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Viga Boland for Readers' Favorite
I will never cease to be amazed by writers like A.L. Sowards who can create incredible fiction from history as she has done in Of Sword and Shadow, a story set in 14th-century Greece. This fascinating tale of a beautiful slave who doesn’t know her own name, nor her parentage, grabbed me from the first chapter and kept me reading page after page. The beautiful no-name slave girl is a skilled thief, owned, raised, and trained by her master, Thomas. He looks after her needs but when she steps out of line, his punishment is severe. She dreams of freedom but accepts her situation. Thomas calls her “mouse”; she is anything but. She scales high fences, picks pockets, wields a knife or sword skillfully, and when necessary is an accomplished actress. Such abilities make her indispensable to Thomas, and eventually to the other characters who populate this story, like the handsome Gillen and his associates involved in the overthrow of the ruthless Catalan rulers.
When the paths of our no-name slave girl and Gillen cross, he names her Eudocia and it’s a given that they will fall in love. But when both are imprisoned and tortured, Eudocia sees only hate for her in Gillen’s eyes when he tells their captors she means nothing to him. Why has he done this? Was she really that naive to believe he might love her? While the plot, woven around the military-style takeover of Thebes in 1379 is interesting from the historical point of view and obviously thoroughly researched by Sowards, the cast of characters gives this story its power. What a gifted writer A.L. Sowards is. Sowards keeps us enthralled, not just with the way fate has brought them together and torn them apart, but with her depiction of the customs, morals, and religious beliefs of the times. Quite frankly, I was saddened by how little life for women back then is unchanged today. Of Sword and Shadow is brilliantly written. Sowards presents authentic settings, captivating characters, excellent dialogue, and a high-action plot. Add this one to your reading list today.
I will never cease to be amazed by writers like A.L. Sowards who can create incredible fiction from history as she has done in Of Sword and Shadow, a story set in 14th-century Greece. This fascinating tale of a beautiful slave who doesn’t know her own name, nor her parentage, grabbed me from the first chapter and kept me reading page after page. The beautiful no-name slave girl is a skilled thief, owned, raised, and trained by her master, Thomas. He looks after her needs but when she steps out of line, his punishment is severe. She dreams of freedom but accepts her situation. Thomas calls her “mouse”; she is anything but. She scales high fences, picks pockets, wields a knife or sword skillfully, and when necessary is an accomplished actress. Such abilities make her indispensable to Thomas, and eventually to the other characters who populate this story, like the handsome Gillen and his associates involved in the overthrow of the ruthless Catalan rulers.
When the paths of our no-name slave girl and Gillen cross, he names her Eudocia and it’s a given that they will fall in love. But when both are imprisoned and tortured, Eudocia sees only hate for her in Gillen’s eyes when he tells their captors she means nothing to him. Why has he done this? Was she really that naive to believe he might love her? While the plot, woven around the military-style takeover of Thebes in 1379 is interesting from the historical point of view and obviously thoroughly researched by Sowards, the cast of characters gives this story its power. What a gifted writer A.L. Sowards is. Sowards keeps us enthralled, not just with the way fate has brought them together and torn them apart, but with her depiction of the customs, morals, and religious beliefs of the times. Quite frankly, I was saddened by how little life for women back then is unchanged today. Of Sword and Shadow is brilliantly written. Sowards presents authentic settings, captivating characters, excellent dialogue, and a high-action plot. Add this one to your reading list today.
Recommend this book:
Of Such Is The Kingdom
A Novel of Biblical Times in 3 Parts
James M. Becher
2020 Finalist
324 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Of Such Is The Kingdom is a work of literary fiction subtitled ‘A Novel of Biblical Times in 3 Parts’, and was penned by author James M. Becher. Generally suitable for readers of all types, with the exception of a few violent scenes, this sweeping epic work takes on the historical ambiance of the Roman era and combines it with literary considerations that bring biblical times and stories to life. The central conflict of the novel focuses on Herod’s foster brother, Manaheem, a wayward non-conformist tasked to foment an insurrection against Pontius Pilate. The people he recruits for this ominous task have their own quests to undergo, and their own struggles to endure.
A combination of powerful Christian fiction and compelling historical intrigue and drama, author James M. Becher has created a work which will suit many different tastes and approaches. The central plot with Manaheem and Barabbas showcases two very different men who find themselves in dire times, steeped with political intrigue and facing their own trials during the last days of Jesus Christ. Alongside this, many other figures are featured and given excellent character development to create a holistic view of ancient Palestine and its nature as a powder keg of intolerance and blood. Becher recounts some gory action moments superbly well and mediates these with tender, emotive scenes where his characters are put to the test to find their own deeper purpose. Overall, Of Such Is The Kingdom will satisfying readers on many inspiring and interesting levels.
Of Such Is The Kingdom is a work of literary fiction subtitled ‘A Novel of Biblical Times in 3 Parts’, and was penned by author James M. Becher. Generally suitable for readers of all types, with the exception of a few violent scenes, this sweeping epic work takes on the historical ambiance of the Roman era and combines it with literary considerations that bring biblical times and stories to life. The central conflict of the novel focuses on Herod’s foster brother, Manaheem, a wayward non-conformist tasked to foment an insurrection against Pontius Pilate. The people he recruits for this ominous task have their own quests to undergo, and their own struggles to endure.
A combination of powerful Christian fiction and compelling historical intrigue and drama, author James M. Becher has created a work which will suit many different tastes and approaches. The central plot with Manaheem and Barabbas showcases two very different men who find themselves in dire times, steeped with political intrigue and facing their own trials during the last days of Jesus Christ. Alongside this, many other figures are featured and given excellent character development to create a holistic view of ancient Palestine and its nature as a powder keg of intolerance and blood. Becher recounts some gory action moments superbly well and mediates these with tender, emotive scenes where his characters are put to the test to find their own deeper purpose. Overall, Of Such Is The Kingdom will satisfying readers on many inspiring and interesting levels.
Recommend this book:
The Emperor Strikes Back
Frederick II's War against his Vassals
Helena P. Schrader
2020 Bronze Medal
433 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
The Emperor Strikes Back: Frederick II's War Against His Vassals by Helena P. Schrader is a historical novel with a strong setting and compelling characters. Jerusalem is under the control of the Christians, thanks to the successful campaign of Emperor Frederick II. However, the barons are not happy with the Emperor's dictatorial approach to power and the common man holds him in great contempt. The Sultan is resolved to drive the Christians away after the ten-year-truce. The Emperor is determined to destroy the family that has inspired a sense of independence in the people: the Ibelins. But the Ibelins are a resilient family that has learned to survive the rough times and to build strong allies. Can they withstand the wrath of the Emperor with the full support he has?
Bloodshed, political machinations, conspiracy, and subterfuge are some of the characteristic features that accompany the action to drive the plot forward in The Emperor Strikes Back: Frederick II's War Against His Vassals. Helena P. Schrader doesn't just craft a beautiful story but also reinvents a historical period that quickly feels real to her readers. The exquisite prose combines with strong plot points to create a story that is page-turning. The political and historical as well as religious elements of the setting are written with a unique approach to detail and a rare sense of imagery. It is fast-paced and delightful, a real treat for fans of historical novels. I enjoyed the strong writing, the great pacing, the in-depth character treatment, and the overall entertainment value of the narrative.
The Emperor Strikes Back: Frederick II's War Against His Vassals by Helena P. Schrader is a historical novel with a strong setting and compelling characters. Jerusalem is under the control of the Christians, thanks to the successful campaign of Emperor Frederick II. However, the barons are not happy with the Emperor's dictatorial approach to power and the common man holds him in great contempt. The Sultan is resolved to drive the Christians away after the ten-year-truce. The Emperor is determined to destroy the family that has inspired a sense of independence in the people: the Ibelins. But the Ibelins are a resilient family that has learned to survive the rough times and to build strong allies. Can they withstand the wrath of the Emperor with the full support he has?
Bloodshed, political machinations, conspiracy, and subterfuge are some of the characteristic features that accompany the action to drive the plot forward in The Emperor Strikes Back: Frederick II's War Against His Vassals. Helena P. Schrader doesn't just craft a beautiful story but also reinvents a historical period that quickly feels real to her readers. The exquisite prose combines with strong plot points to create a story that is page-turning. The political and historical as well as religious elements of the setting are written with a unique approach to detail and a rare sense of imagery. It is fast-paced and delightful, a real treat for fans of historical novels. I enjoyed the strong writing, the great pacing, the in-depth character treatment, and the overall entertainment value of the narrative.
Recommend this book:
Acts of Faith
Part 1 of the Inquisition Trilogy
Martin Elsant
2020 Silver Medal
306 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Acts of Faith is a work of historical fiction focusing on mysterious events brought about by the activity of the Portuguese Inquisition, penned by author Martin Elsant. In the first novel of The Inquisition Trilogy, we find ourselves in Europe of the sixteenth century where religion is highly important and the faith one practices can result in life or death, depending on who has the power. The person in question here is Diego Lopes, who dies in an auto-da-fé (heretic burning), or at least he’s supposed to. Elsant explores the beliefs on either side of the divide of religion from those who viewed Lopes as a sinner or a saint.
Not knowing a great deal about this area of history, I was delighted to find myself so well entrenched in the world of sixteenth-century Portugal right from the opening of this excellent tale. Author Martin Elsant pays attention to detail and creates a great atmosphere with the word images which are painted through every scene. Perhaps the strongest element of this history-come-to-life is in its social awareness and character development. The players of the tale reflect authentic attitudes and beliefs of the time, and they feel the pain of oppression, suspicion and the power of the Inquisition with palpable emotional energy. The story is one of struggle and conflict, but also of love and the search for the truth. Overall, top-quality writing makes Acts of Faith a highly recommended read for fans of world history.
Acts of Faith is a work of historical fiction focusing on mysterious events brought about by the activity of the Portuguese Inquisition, penned by author Martin Elsant. In the first novel of The Inquisition Trilogy, we find ourselves in Europe of the sixteenth century where religion is highly important and the faith one practices can result in life or death, depending on who has the power. The person in question here is Diego Lopes, who dies in an auto-da-fé (heretic burning), or at least he’s supposed to. Elsant explores the beliefs on either side of the divide of religion from those who viewed Lopes as a sinner or a saint.
Not knowing a great deal about this area of history, I was delighted to find myself so well entrenched in the world of sixteenth-century Portugal right from the opening of this excellent tale. Author Martin Elsant pays attention to detail and creates a great atmosphere with the word images which are painted through every scene. Perhaps the strongest element of this history-come-to-life is in its social awareness and character development. The players of the tale reflect authentic attitudes and beliefs of the time, and they feel the pain of oppression, suspicion and the power of the Inquisition with palpable emotional energy. The story is one of struggle and conflict, but also of love and the search for the truth. Overall, top-quality writing makes Acts of Faith a highly recommended read for fans of world history.
Recommend this book:
Army of God
Dennis Bailey
2020 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
Army of God by Dennis Bailey is transporting and utterly gripping, a fictional rendering of the biblical story of Noah and the ark with interesting plot twists. When I read up on the author, it wasn’t surprising to find that he’s been a police detective and an investigator because one sees in the story the manifestation of a sharp intellect and a creative imagination. Noah has barely escaped massacre from powerful enemies, thanks to the aid of a beautiful maiden. He succeeds in fleeing from the city of Eden. When he receives the revelation from God that He will destroy the entire human race, Noah begins to build the ark, but the project is not welcomed happily by all, and he finds opposition both within his family and from his own people. But the greatest challenge comes from the army of five thousand men sent by his arch-enemy in Eden to destroy the ark. The resistance will surprise the enemy as well as readers.
This is a very interesting story and readers will enjoy how imaginative it is. Dennis Bailey doesn’t wait to introduce the conflict and characters like Noah, Malluch, and Bohar, as well as a host of others that are very compelling. The narrative exudes a strong spiritual atmosphere, features religious and political themes, and pulls readers into a rollicking adventure that makes them wonder if the Bible tells everything they need to know about strong biblical characters. While offering readers great entertainment, this novel is thought provoking — Noah’s leadership, inspired by his relationship with God and his mission to protect life from the flood, comes across powerfully. On a deeper level, this isn’t just the story of Noah and the ark, but a story about the environment and, in the final battle, everything that Noah fights to take into the ark is involved in the battle for survival. Army of God is a memorable story with relevant environmental and spiritual themes for contemporary readers.
Army of God by Dennis Bailey is transporting and utterly gripping, a fictional rendering of the biblical story of Noah and the ark with interesting plot twists. When I read up on the author, it wasn’t surprising to find that he’s been a police detective and an investigator because one sees in the story the manifestation of a sharp intellect and a creative imagination. Noah has barely escaped massacre from powerful enemies, thanks to the aid of a beautiful maiden. He succeeds in fleeing from the city of Eden. When he receives the revelation from God that He will destroy the entire human race, Noah begins to build the ark, but the project is not welcomed happily by all, and he finds opposition both within his family and from his own people. But the greatest challenge comes from the army of five thousand men sent by his arch-enemy in Eden to destroy the ark. The resistance will surprise the enemy as well as readers.
This is a very interesting story and readers will enjoy how imaginative it is. Dennis Bailey doesn’t wait to introduce the conflict and characters like Noah, Malluch, and Bohar, as well as a host of others that are very compelling. The narrative exudes a strong spiritual atmosphere, features religious and political themes, and pulls readers into a rollicking adventure that makes them wonder if the Bible tells everything they need to know about strong biblical characters. While offering readers great entertainment, this novel is thought provoking — Noah’s leadership, inspired by his relationship with God and his mission to protect life from the flood, comes across powerfully. On a deeper level, this isn’t just the story of Noah and the ark, but a story about the environment and, in the final battle, everything that Noah fights to take into the ark is involved in the battle for survival. Army of God is a memorable story with relevant environmental and spiritual themes for contemporary readers.
Recommend this book:
The Sugar Merchant
James Hutson-Wiley
2019 Finalist
378 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
The Sugar Merchant by James Hutson-Wiley thrusts the reader into the historical period towards the last part of the eleventh century, an era witnessing an economic revolution. Thomas Woodward loses his family at the age of eight to one of the raids conducted by Tostig, an outlawed son of Godwin and brother of King Harold. He loses his family to a raid, but is rescued from hunger and hopelessness by a monk and brought to the abbey of Eynsham, where he spend the next twelve years of his life training to be a scholar, merchant and spy, with a mission to develop commerce in the Muslim world and act as a spy for the Holy See. Thomas’s life is set for adventure as he travels through different lands, and knows love and loss and heartbreak. With complex challenges besetting him and his personal demons, can he accomplish the mission successfully?
James Hutson-Wiley captures the soul and spirit of the era in a brilliant way in the narrative, allowing readers to relive the religious, cultural, and political tensions of the time. He weaves themes of espionage, religious intrigue, and the personal struggles of a man into a story that takes readers across different distinct cultures. The historical elements of the setting are skillfully knitted into the narrative and the author uses them to enrich the conflict. I was fascinated by the compelling social and cultural commentaries that paint a vivid image of the time. The use of the epistolary style enhances the plot points and the conflict while helping to deepen character development. The Sugar Merchant is a great achievement and a page-turner for fans of historical novels; a story with powerful themes, compelling characters, and a gripping plot.
The Sugar Merchant by James Hutson-Wiley thrusts the reader into the historical period towards the last part of the eleventh century, an era witnessing an economic revolution. Thomas Woodward loses his family at the age of eight to one of the raids conducted by Tostig, an outlawed son of Godwin and brother of King Harold. He loses his family to a raid, but is rescued from hunger and hopelessness by a monk and brought to the abbey of Eynsham, where he spend the next twelve years of his life training to be a scholar, merchant and spy, with a mission to develop commerce in the Muslim world and act as a spy for the Holy See. Thomas’s life is set for adventure as he travels through different lands, and knows love and loss and heartbreak. With complex challenges besetting him and his personal demons, can he accomplish the mission successfully?
James Hutson-Wiley captures the soul and spirit of the era in a brilliant way in the narrative, allowing readers to relive the religious, cultural, and political tensions of the time. He weaves themes of espionage, religious intrigue, and the personal struggles of a man into a story that takes readers across different distinct cultures. The historical elements of the setting are skillfully knitted into the narrative and the author uses them to enrich the conflict. I was fascinated by the compelling social and cultural commentaries that paint a vivid image of the time. The use of the epistolary style enhances the plot points and the conflict while helping to deepen character development. The Sugar Merchant is a great achievement and a page-turner for fans of historical novels; a story with powerful themes, compelling characters, and a gripping plot.
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