Customer Reviews

First Light (A. D. Chronicles, Book 1)

5 star:		(30)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(3)

 

 

The Passover riot is dieing down. But the political turmoil is just heating up. Pilot and Herod Antipas want someone to blame. Centurion Marcus Longinus is caught in the cross fire and must carry out a mission to Alexandria to avoid being falsely accused. Meanwhile, Susanna is caught in a high stakes battle between brothers battling for her hand in marriage. And Manaen just wants his share of the inheritance. Blind beggar Peniel waits for the coming Messiah. Maybe he'll come this Pentecost.

While this may be the official start of the Thoenes' new series, it doesn't feel like it. The story starts moments after the end of their last novel, JERUSALEM'S HOPE, so it's best to read that book first. (Like that's a real chore.) After a brief update on Moshe in the prolog (set in 2002), they proceed to bring us back to the characters we've gotten to know in the first Century.

I love these books because of the background they bring. While combining familiar Bible stories together in novel form, they give a historic context that I enjoy getting. I also enjoy watching the workings and politics of the Roman Empire. My favorite character is probably Marcus because of his journey toward faith the more time he spends around Yeshua.

Unfortunately, this book didn't live up to the recent books the Thoenes have written. They sometimes got so caught up in explaining Jewish life and customs that they over do it. Some passages skirt across a fine line and come across as more preachy then expository. Finally, the non-Biblical climax seems rushed. They can do better then this.

Long time fans will relish another story from these masters of the craft. While not their best, it is still an entertaining read that will transport you to another place and time.

I was greatly uplifted by this book. It is very well written and quite imaginative, but also based in good research. You might say that it combines the historical adventure of Ben Hur by Gen. Lew Wallace, and the political-religious intrigue of The Day Christ Died by Jim Bishop (written some 40 years ago). You might say that, but you'd be wrong. There is artistry in this story that gives it an original perspective on the final days of the Second Temple period. In a rather oblique way, Jesus is not the central figure in this narrative, yet He is the core that animates almost every character. Some can see Him, others can't. But Jesus is there, nevertheless, and he does have some minor speaking parts. This is a story of redemption of frail and fuming people, like ourselves today. Actually it is very much like today. Not much has changed in 2000 years, or 4000 years, or even 6000 years. It is a true historical novel and a great drama of life. It will give you insights into the New Testament story. If you've been to Jerusalem, you will experience the old city as if you were there at the time of Herod, the ancient Sanhedren, Nicodemos. The story revolves around a poor Jewish begar who is blind from birth. I was so touched by the story that I listened to the CD set after reading the book. What a story! I saw myself in so many of the characters and I felt the compassion of the G-d of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in my own life. The most wonderful parts of this story are when the blind boy is visited in his dreams of the Ushpazin -- by Isaac, Jacob and others. I can't describe the skill with which these parts were read in the CD version. I guess all I am trying to say is that this book touched my heart when I needed it, and it helped me through my own dark nights and days. If you are a Christian, you will come away with a greater love for the Jewish heart and the G-d that gives us hope. If you are a Jew, you will possibly understand better that gentiles need salvation as much as anyone, and that G-d was so kind to provide a redeemer of such enduring strength and compassion. This novel gives hope because it deals with The Hope -- Hatikva.

I just finished this wonderful story and rushed to my computer to order #2. The Thoene's do their usual masterful work of historical accuracy, great character development, and insight into the complexities of the human condition. I strongly identified with Peniel and when he was healed, I wept. This is a moving account of how lives are set free by the great I AM when we choose to seek Him. It is different in style and scope than their previous works, so don't expect it to be the same as their past series. I can see in this book the culmination of the Thoene's writing and research experience, as well as the fruit of their maturing faith. Enjoy!!

Appreciation of the world in which Christ walked perhaps is not essential to enjoyment and edification when reading the gospels, but it helps. As you read First Light, that time and place will become clearer to you, and you will gain new insight into the depths of the Messiah, despite the fact that He plays only a peripheral role in the story.

First Light's story is told through many eyes. Mananen emerges as the young man who asked Jesus to judge the matter of inheritance between him and his corrupt brother, Demos. The fact that Demos' name resembles the word demon is not a coincidence. Demos is wily and diabolical as the name implies. It is not only money that divides the brothers, but the love of a woman, Susanna. She truly loves Mananen, but Demos is powerful and determined to have her, no matter what blood price that demands.

Then, there is Mananen's truest friend, a blind beggar who offers him and Susanna what help he can. Peniel, blind from birth has greater vision than many who can see. His kind and generous heart is displayed in many ways, and he is rewarded by helping prove that Yeshua (Jesus) is truly the Son of the Living God.

**** Fast paced and detailed, the Thoenes give us a tale that will give new life to Bible reading. The unheard voices of the gospels come to life and bring new depth to old stories. You will gain a new appreciation for the wit and wisdom of Christ by the time the last page is turned. ****

Reviewed by Amanda Killgore.

What a special book. I loved when this series changed directions, and looked at the past through ancient scrolls. I'm so glad I kept scanning this series till Jerusalem Scrolls (book 4). So when the latest one arrived from Amazon, - First Light, I actually hugged the book, anticipating these next moments of reading a special book. You readers know what I mean - when you know it means cuddling up in a corner with a good book. Now that I've started reading this one - First Light - I'm absorbed again right away with the continuance of the characters. The characters are so special and intertwined into this story. I've smiled a lot, teared a bit. For you who would like to read something special in the time of Yeshua, enjoy (but make sure you begin with book 4 - Jerusalem Scrolls). I can see many other sides of the times of Jesus. What great fiction! So excuse me while I curl up on my couch to finish this great book. Thanks a bunch, Thoene's.

I have finished only half of this novel because I don't want it to end too fast. The Thoene's have again produced an exciting work of art that brings the reader back in time to a turning point in human history. Whether or not you've ever been to Israel, or Jerusalem in particular, you can read this novel and feel like you are there, part of the sweeping currents of politics and religion that led to the crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth. The story is told through the eyes and words of ordinary Jews, powerful religious and secular authorities, Roman centurians, Temple guards, and simple New Testament luminaries such as Martha and Mary, Lazarus, and Nichodemus. (So far in my read, the Apostles have no major part in this book.) It is a riveting behind-the-scenes look at the flesh-and-blood human passions of a Jewish culture invaded by Roman rule and Greek humanism. Most of all, it is the story of Jesus personally in the midst of His own people. First Light falls somewhere in the middle of a triange bounded by three works: the Gospel narratives, Ben Hur, and The Day Christ Died (by Jim Bishop). The funny thing is that nothing has really changed much in 2000 years; the people in this book could be you or me today. First Light causes the reader to face Jesus in person as if He were here today, in the flesh, in Jerusalem among His own Jewish people. You will identify (or identify with) most of the characters, some of whom are only lightly sketched out for us in the New Testament but are fully formed in First Light. It's an exciting and historically well-researched novel.

I loved this book and hated to see it end. This was the first book by this author that I had read, and I have already gotten two more from my local library (because many are now out of print). The characters and the Bible both come alive in this story. It was very important to me that this was also biblically accurate. I am recommending this to many of my friends.

This book is amazing! You will travel back in time to the most pivital period in history. The character development is outstanding and the facts right on. This series is a must read. You will learn as well as enjoy this fantastic book. Even though this time period is long gone you can still see and feel its impact today!! Well done Thoene's!! Kerrin

Bodie and Brock Thoene have done it again. This book crackles with the passion of God for his people. I am always amazed by the draw of Yeshua. Even printed on the page, one feels as the characters do. Simply drawn to this man and his revolution of love. A beuatiful book. I am eagerly awaiting the next installment.

I have read the first 3 books in this series and all I can say is WOW!!! I can't wait to read the Fourth Dawn! These books have given me a renewed interest in bible study and examining His word. I love how they go into more detail about the people that Jesus touched on His many travels throughout the Holy Land. I have enjoyed every moment of reading these delightful books and will read the other series once I have finished this one!