Rating: 
Summary: Gripping Historical Fiction
Review: Opening on the night in 1947 that the UN voted for Israel's independence, this series follow the events that lead up to May 14, 1948 through the eyes of several fictitious characters. As the events unfold, we are drawn into the lives of Ellie, David, Moshe, and Rachel and share their struggles, fears, hopes, and joys in the midst of a real war going on for the survival of Israel and the Jews.I first read this series in the early 90's and reread it a couple years ago. I was surprised at how much stuck with me. I couldn't put the books down the first time, and had almost as much trouble on the reread. The Thoenes are truly talented authors, deftly mixing character development with suspense and historical accuracy. After reading this series, I added them to list of favorite authors. This was the first series that the Thoenes wrote for the Christian market. A reader who isn't familiar with their work can easily start here. However, their Zion Covenant series does take place before this one and involve some, but not all, of the same characters. They have finally written the next chapter in the amazing struggle of the Jews in their Zion Legacy series. The Thoenes have proven time and time again they are among the best of today's Christian fiction writers. If you haven't had the pleasure, don't hesitate. You will find yourself swept away to another time and place and enjoy every moment of it.
Rating:
Summary: History Comes Alive
Review: The intensity of feelings between the characters reflects the intensity of feelings around the world concerning this most horrendous experience. Thoene points out how important it is for the world to remember the holocaust and the nearly overwhelming odds the Jews had to overcome to finally have a safe place to live in this world. She makes it clear that Christians are also Jewish and that the homeland is important to all of us.
Rating: 
Summary: Historically, But Not Spiritually Accurate
Review: The Zion Chronicles Series represents an exciting, well-told account of the founding of the State of Israel. The characters are exquisitely drawn, the events are based on history, and the reader cannot wait to find out what happens next. Nevertheless, no Jewish occupant of Palestine or Israel would even know about "Yeshua" or believe that the Messiah had already come. The Jews for Jesus movement had not started in 1948, and even if it had existed at that time, the characters in the series would not have believed in--or even known about--Jesus with one exception. They would have known that Jews throughout the ages have been falsely blamed for the crucifixion of Christ, when in fact the Romans crucified Jesus Christ. The Thoenes are Christian authors of great talent and sensitivity. If they wanted to instill Christian beliefs in their works, they would have been far more accurate to focus on the many similarities between Judaism and Christianity instead of on unbelievable scenarios such as a survivor of the Holocaust--who had no way of knowing about Jesus--praying to Christ--and many similar examples. Will I read more Thoene? You bet!
Rating:
Summary: Well done!!!!
Review: These are beautifully written books that any person of any age will enjoy immensely!!! It is a concise, accurate, historical picture of the events surrounding the establishment of the State of Israel, entwined with personal stories that will capture your heart. I recommend reading the Chronicles first, followed by the Zion Covenant series, then the Zion Legacy series. You won't be able to put them down!!!
Rating:
Summary: Amazing How Ignorant We've Been of the True History
Review: These books reflect the true history of the turmoiled Middle-East. The fact of the matter is, the land of Israel was worthless prior to being settled by Intellectual Jews who realized their need for a homeland in the face of growing anti-semitism in Europe. Settling there, where only NOMADS passed through occasionally, these brave Jews drained swamps, planted orchards and made the land livable. Thank God too. Imagine how many escaped being gassed in WW2 because they had somewhere to flee to. Great Job, Thoenes, for finally revealing some truth about the region!
Rating:
Summary: Amazing How Ignorant We've Been of the True History
Review: These books reflect the true history of the turmoiled Middle-East. The fact of the matter is, the land of Israel was worthless prior to being settled by Intellectual Jews who realized their need for a homeland in the face of growing anti-semitism in Europe. Settling there, where only NOMADS passed through occasionally, these brave Jews drained swamps, planted orchards and made the land livable. Thank God too. Imagine how many escaped being gassed in WW2 because they had somewhere to flee to. Great Job, Thoenes, for finally revealing some truth about the region!
Rating:
Summary: A great series on the Israeli War of Independence.
Review: This great fiction series chronicles the events of the Israeli War of Independence; focusing both on the personal stories of people who were there, and also giving a great overview of the entire story. Bodie Thoene's books are very historically accurate and provide a great history lesson in a very interesting way. The story of the Jews' fight for freedom and independence will touch the patriotic spirit of all Americans, as well as those who just want to root for the underdog. After reading these books, a shout of "This year in Jerusalem" will bring tears to the eyes. These books are simply amazing, I heartily recommend them!
Rating: 
Summary: The other side of Zion
Review: What's good about glorifying an independance when hundred thousands of people were forced to leave their homes to let the new comers (european jews) settle down and feel "free" ? I guess that's a new concept of independance.
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