Rating: 
Summary: Wonderful book!
Review: 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.
Rating:
Summary: A sobering story of hope
Review: 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.
Rating:
Summary: Well Done, Thoene's!
Review: In the first century, Jews flock to Yerushalyim to celebrate the Passover at a time when Roman legions dominate the landscape. The Jews question their faith and their God as the invaders slaughter innocents with the help of the local religious priests. Even though they feel abandoned by God and are beginning to believe that evil will inherit the earth, still they come until the latest genocide leaves many dead.In this unholy period of doubt, disaster, and foreign rule, blind teen beggar Peniel still believes in his God and that the Messiah is coming. No one welcomes Peniel; even his parents shun him because they blame him for the death of his brother. Most people feel Peniel or his parents sinned leading to his sightlessness. Still being a pariah does not stop Peniel from his search for the light of the Messiah with Yeshua the healer his prime candidate. This is an entertaining but serious look at the first century during a time when the Jewish people are religiously in disarray. More people feel God abandoned his Chosen ones than those like the hero who expect the Messiah to arrive any moment. Though cramming too much in one novel, as there are other stars of subplots that do not tie together except through their dealings with the messianic healer Yeshua, readers will enjoy this engaging insightful first century tale. Harriet Klausner
Rating:
Summary: entertaining but serious look at the first century
Review: In the first century, Jews flock to Yerushalyim to celebrate the Passover at a time when Roman legions dominate the landscape. The Jews question their faith and their God as the invaders slaughter innocents with the help of the local religious priests. Even though they feel abandoned by God and are beginning to believe that evil will inherit the earth, still they come until the latest genocide leaves many dead. In this unholy period of doubt, disaster, and foreign rule, blind teen beggar Peniel still believes in his God and that the Messiah is coming. No one welcomes Peniel; even his parents shun him because they blame him for the death of his brother. Most people feel Peniel or his parents sinned leading to his sightlessness. Still being a pariah does not stop Peniel from his search for the light of the Messiah with Yeshua the healer his prime candidate. This is an entertaining but serious look at the first century during a time when the Jewish people are religiously in disarray. More people feel God abandoned his Chosen ones than those like the hero who expect the Messiah to arrive any moment. Though cramming too much in one novel, as there are other stars of subplots that do not tie together except through their dealings with the messianic healer Yeshua, readers will enjoy this engaging insightful first century tale. Harriet Klausner
Rating: 
Summary: Danger and Intrigue in 1st Century Jerusalem
Review: 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 read 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.
Rating:
Summary: Well Done, Thoene's!
Review: 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.
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