Customer Reviews

The Scroll: A Novel

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2 star:		(8)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

David Chambers renowned Biblical Archaeologist, is a man who has lost his faith and is searching for something crucial in his life. Abram Ben-Judah, an old friend contacts him and asks him to come back to the Holy Land for one final dig, to unearth the treasures of the Copper Scroll. Funding has come from a benefactor, a great supporter of Biblical Archaelogy and David finds himself working alongside other members at the dig site, who are not of his choosing including Amber, his fiancee. The treasures in the tunnels await the explorers, but is the ultimate cost worth the price that must be paid?

Mr. Gansky is a favorite author of mine and this book did not disappoint! Danger and intrigue along with interactive dialogue, excellent character development, twists and turns, and realistic scenery await the reader! As I was reading The Scroll I was reminded of possibly an Indiana Jones movie sitting on the edge of the seat and I felt as if I were there with the characters experiencing what they did. I learned quite a bit about archaelogy from this book and I was challenged in my faith. But don't expect to finish this book in one sitting plan three or four uninterupped evenings and let the authors take you on a fascinating journey. I would highly recommend this book! Very well written!!! I received this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers for my review.

I almost did not finish The Scroll, my book for today. To be honest, with all of the 2012 hysteria, bundled with the War on Terror and a hefty dash of natural disasters, I wasn't very excited as the book begin to turn toward an "end-of-the-world" ending. There's just enough of that in fiction, especially in the Christian Fiction genre. (Seriously, it's either romantic, Amish, or Apocalyptic. Those three choices are about all I see these days.)

However, I didn't give up on the book. Why not?

First of all, the writing team had me curious. I've seen a couple of novels written by Biblical scholars. I've seen a few written by scholars and authors, and the addition of a professional fiction author really does help. So, this work being a cooperative effort drew my attention.

Second, the writers created characters that I became genuinely interested in. Admittedly, these characters were somewhat clichéd, but sometimes clichés are based in recurrent real things. I know several workaholics who have sabotaged their social lives, people who have lost everything including their faith, and people who have nothing left but their faith.

Jeffrey and Gansky assembled a group of expected characters. They're all insiders within archaeology and are working a dig in Israel. The setting itself makes for intensity: where else is high-profile tension automatic? Had the main character, David Chambers, pursued his idea of investigating the Olmecs of Central America, it would have taken a dozen chapters to explain why the place was dangerous. At the name of "Israel" or "Palestine" instant tension flows. This serves as a great backdrop for the book.

The book begins a little slowly, but works up the pace nicely. Initially, the plot looks like it will be a simple dig for old stuff and have romantic tension book. The plot twists towards the apocalyptic, but then it rebalances nicely. I was pleased to find that the goal here was neither to prevent or accelerate the end of the world.

In fact, the world doesn't end. With the exception of a rapid scene at the climax, the focus stays on earthly means and measures without unnecessary deus ex machina moments.

The Scroll isn't perfect fiction. There are stock characters, expected plot twists, and action scenes that end as expected. There are some questionable moments in both theology and archaeology. The bad guys are all connected to either secularism or Islam while the good guys are all Christians or Jews. That's not the way life really is, but this is a book. There are plotlines that seem to be opened up, but then go nowhere.

And the end of the epilogue is either the setup for another book or closure to one of the lingering questions in the book. The cynic in me says we'll have to see how this book sells to know that answer.

In all, this isn't a bad read and it's not going to take too long. Spend a few evenings with The Scroll you'll have some good entertainment.

(Book provided by WaterBrook/Multnomah in exchange for the review.)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Scroll by Grant R. Jeffrey and Alton L. Gansky (ch. 1 excerpts)

""It's time to come back to the Holy Land.

"I don't think so. My last trip was just that--my last trip."

"God wants you to return."

This time Chambers did laugh. "That's odd. I didn't get His memo."The laughter wasn't returned.

"We need you, Dr. Chambers."The formal "Dr. Chambers" told him Abram was serious.
"I want you, my friend."

Chambers stood as if Abram could see him do so. ..........

"Why? Why me?".............."The Old Testament Scriptures have been shown historically accurate before. Those finds are nothing new."

That topic had been the primary cause for Chambers' research. He had wanted to prove the Bible, both the Old Testament, what Abram called the Tanakh, and the New Testament, was accurate in every historical detail, and thereby prove its divine inspiration. He had helped achieve the first goal but lost all faith in the second.

.............."The dig will be the most challenging you've ever faced and promises to be the most rewarding."

"Abram, I don't--"

"Billions of dollars are at stake. David, this discovery may prove as great an archaeological find as Carter's discovery of the Tutankhamun tomb."

Chambers tried to object but was stunned to realize that he couldn't.............."

These excerpts from the first chapter of the Scroll are the launching point for this Biblical archaeological adventure mystery filled with suspense, murder, doubt, and faith.

Although little is known of Biblical archeology by this reviewer, the authors of this book weaved fiction with historical fact to produce a mystery that entertained through dry humor, 21st century espionage, yet enough fact to entice the reader to anxiously continue.

The book's predictable ending is suspenseful, and obvious to the reader that God is always with Chambers. His journey in finding peace in life through a renewed faith in God is both satisfying and affirming.

This is a good read for anyone that may be interested in a fiction Biblical adventure.

Does the Ark of the Covenant still exist? If so, where is it hidden? Could it be found by archaeologists following clues left behind by Jewish monks some 2,000 years ago? How would the search transform the lives of the searchers? What kind of a furor would be raised if these things were really true?

That is the premise of the novel, The Scroll, by Grant R. Jeffry and Alton L. Gansky. The main character is a biblical archaeologist by the name of Dr. David Chambers. Unfortunately, he walked away from his faith years ago. His former mentor, a Jewish historian, invites him to conduct one more dig in the tunnels underneath ancient Jerusalem. Along the way, Chambers is confronted with failures in his faith, academic discipline, and his personal relationships. But he is also confronted with the possibility of finding treasures that prove the truth of Scripture.

On the whole, I found The Scroll to be an average novel. Not bad, but not great either. For the most part, it was enjoyable. However, it bogs down in a few places where it tries to explain the academics of archaeology. Some of the dialogue sounds a bit artificial and the ending comes across as predictable. That being said, it was a good read.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Dr. David Chambers thought that he had resolved to be done with biblical archeology. He thought that he had put the past behind him- his own discovery of Herod's Tunnel, the books he had written upon the subject, his ex-fiancee- Amber Rodgers, even his faith. But little did he know that the phone call from Abram Ben-Judah would not only change his own future, but maybe even that of the whole world.
When Ben-Judah requested Dr. Chambers to come back to the Holy Land and work on a dig in search of the treasures listed in the Copper Scroll, Dr. Chambers did not want to refuse his old friend and mentor, so he agreed. But while he is there he is surrounded by mystery, murder, and top secrets that even he, as the head of the archaeologists, is kept in the dark about- and he won't find out until it is almost too late.

I found this book intriguing. I really enjoy reading about biblical archeology- and mysteries!- so it definitely kept my interest. I was disappointed, however, at the lack of eloquence in the writing itself. The descriptions seemed to need more to them and the dialogue was a bit cliché and sarcastic. Now, I understand that most of the characters were not Christians, but they seemed to always be acting annoyed and irritated with each other.
The scene where Chambers comes back to Christ left much to be desired. I was disappointed that there seemed to be no lead up- you don't really see much of his "in head" struggle to come back to God- it seems too sudden. I was disappointed that I did not leave the story with a lesson learned.
I commend the authors for having such a wonderful knowledge of history and archeology stored up in this book- I thoroughly enjoyed that. Although I imagine that some people a bit less "nerdy" than myself would quickly find that element boring. I also thought that it perhaps could have been more gracefully woven into the story...
I was so sad when I got to the end. It seemed so sudden and abrupt- I was enjoying the story and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next in detail- but as it was so quickly wrapped up I felt as though I had missed out.
I am not going to say that this was a terrible book- by no means. I thought that the story was interesting, the setting and historical significance fascinating, but that I think the authors could use some more eloquence and morals to be added to the story. If there was a sequel to this book I would read it.
If you love history or biblical archeology- you will probably like this book. But if you are looking for drama and a life-changing story- try Ishmael.

I received this as an ebook for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing in exchange for a review based upon my own opinions.

Reviews by Janet P. -The Scroll is a novel written by Grant R. Jeffrey and Alton L. Gansky. Dr. David Chambers is a leading biblical archaeologist, but due to certain circumstances has lost his faith and also his interest in archaeology. One day he receives a call from an old friend, Dr. Ben-Judah asking for his help on a dig regarding the Copper Scroll, a secret that could alter the course of history. As Dr. Chambers gets involved in the dig, his life and the lives of loved ones are at risk.
My thoughts: The first chapter was a little slow to me but it became more intriguing as I started the second chapter. I really enjoyed reading it and I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fast-paced thriller with biblical references.

I read the book The Scroll by Grant Jeffrey and Alton Gansky published by WaterBrook Press. I was offered the book free for the purposes of this review but that hasn't changed my opinion of the book. The book centers on Dr. David Chambers, an archeologist who, after deciding to leave the field of Biblical Archeology for some other area of archeological research gets pulled back in searching for the lost treasures of "The Copper Scroll." Complicating this is the inclusion of his ex-fiancée on the team and one of Dr. Chambers' hated rivals (who knew archeologists had hated rivals). There is, of course, danger, mystery and other people trying to steal the secrets of the scroll.

When offered the book I thought, "Sure, I like a good story and the addition of the subject matter would make the book all the more interesting." Well it didn't. It was, for the shortness of the book itself, a ponderous read. Every 20 pages or so there is a few pages of one of the archeologists (usually Dr. Chambers) explaining some well-known point of Biblical Archeology to other people who already know (or should know) what he is talking about. It would be like your kids explaining to you how to tie your shoes every day. I know I get it, the first couple times I can forgive it but come on.

But ultimately the thing that kills the book the most is how completely unlikeable David Chambers is as a character. If he was a real person you'd want to punch him in the neck. He constantly snaps at people, belittles them, and goes off on emotional tirades like a 3 year old child. I wanted to like this book, I really did, but I just disliked the hero too much.

Dr. David Chambers has turned his back on his field of biblical archaeology and his faith. He has his reasons, of course. Another casualty of his u-turn is fellow archaeologist Dr. Amber Rogers- his former fiance.

After his final dig in Israel, David returns home; home to an empty condo; home to a small office on campus. As he debates which discipline will be his new academic focus, his phone rings, colliding the past, present, and future.

Old friends. Old colleagues. An even older mystery. As a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is revealed, David reluctantly decides that for his friend, he'll do one last dig...............

This book had me hooked by the end of the first page. It combines biblical history, archeology and biblical prophesy while throwing in a little bit of love-gone-wrong, mystery, and murder. If you know even a little bit of the first three, this book is guaranteed to make you think.

I really hope there are more titles by these authors, because they are definitely a fantastic writing combination. Both authors have other titles separately, but together, they make a dynamic writing team.

I give this title 5 out of 5 stars, and would give it more if I could. There is no question I'll be sharing this title with folks.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

In The Scroll, by Jeffery and Gansky, is about Dr. Chambers, a biblical archeologist, who is at the top of his field. He has made numerous finds that has confirmed the historical accuracy of the Bible. Even though he has made these historical finds that confirm the Bible his life is in a spiral. He has lost his faith and his family and wants to turn his back on Christianity because he feels it has cost him more in his life than it has given him.

He does not know though that he is about to receive a call from a long time archeological friend that is going to change his life and faith. It is with him and the assembled team of archeologists that may just change the world.

The book is a fun adventurous story that is kind if like Indiana Jones. If you like the Indiana Jones films I think that you will find this book very entertaining. It very much follows that sort of genre and plot.

The book continually keeps you on your toes and does to disappoint.

"The Scroll" brings answers from both the Bible and the News to an amazing "what-if" question. I am not going to spoil it here by telling you "what" that "if" is. Biblical archaeology provides a framework to a mystery story that spans thousands of years. "The Scroll" is set in the near future and borders on science fiction. It informs and invites faith in the same way that Brown's Davinci Code tries to excuse it. The key character is David Chamber, a popular but burned out archaeologist. His specialty is Biblical archeology in and around Israel. He is an expert in the various tunnels connected to this history. Chambers, dubbed the Carl Sagan of archeology, has suffered a loss of faith and love. Soaking himself in alcohol, he is going through the motions of teaching instead of pursuing the field work that brought him notoriety. His lost love is Amber, another archaeologist. They broke up at the altar and had not spoken in several years. Now thrown together by a mysterious billionaire, John Trent, they go to work on an equally mysterious dig. Set in Israel, the cast takes Landau, the tough security man, David's mentor and friend Abram Ben-Judah, the troublesome Nuri and others, including the Israeli Prime minister and the president of the USA on a journey of apocalyptic proportions.

The star of the book is a set of copper scrolls with cryptic clues leading to the fabulous treasure of the Temple in Jerusalem which was plundered and destroyed by the Romans. Our characters team up, with unlimited civil and military resources, to uncover these priceless heirlooms of God. Political intrigue, terrorist attacks, and betrayal are only a few of the obstacles put in the way. Perseverance, intelligence, and technology join God's gracious favor to bring this team closer to their ultimate goal. Restoration for our hero Chambers lies at the end of this long journey. God is indeed faithful in this tale. The end goal is an exciting possibility from Biblical prophesy and the world's response to it. The true treasure recovered in faith and not gold.

The Scroll: A Novel is written by Grant R. Jeffrey, Bible Scholar, teacher and archaeologist, along with the writer and novelist Alton L. Gansky. The book has a great grasp on archaeological procedure and jargon. This brings life to the story. The book is also clearly written, organized well and entertaining. These two make a great team. The ending is a pleasant yet terrifying surprise and leaves the door open to a sequel.

I enjoyed "The Scroll" and found it thought provoking as well as entertaining. It is Christian fiction with a point, is free of bad language and adult themes, yet has enough reasonable romance and violence to drive a good story. I would recommend this book but also remind the reader that it is a novel. The Scroll is appropriate for youth aged readers through adults. I look forward to Jeffrey and Gansky's second installment.

Thanks to Multnomah Press for giving me this book in exchange for this review and Thank you for reading the Thoughtful Pastor Blog.