A.D. 33: A Novel: A.D., Book 2

LOVED everything about this book.It did frightened me a bit. I don't think I have what is needed. I'm so afraid and unsure of everything.Thank you Jesus Christ for your salvation.

This is truth easily understood told in a gripping story we can all understand. Present day struggles in an ancient setting.

The first thing that impresses me with A.D. 30 and A.D. 33 would be, Ted Dekker is the author. He is simply a very consistent author, whatever he puts out.The second thing is, he uses a female protagonist from Arabia, an outcast among her own people who is strong in every way while weak by circumstances at the same time.The *reason* that strikes me as genius is *not* because she is a woman but because of the culture of the time and that she therefore comes into the story as an "outsider" in *every* way possible! I didn't fully appreciate *how* genius that is until the second book, but in terms of story construct - genius on every level.She approaches Judaism & Yeshua (Jesus) as a *total* outsider. She has no knowledge of any of it and no relationship whatsoever with anyone one would know from scripture, no knowledge of "the backstory," no preconceived ideas about *any* of it. Another stroke of genius, to my mind.You have the opportunity to approach the entire idea of Yeshua, Who He is, what He did while on Earth from a unique perspective, through her eyes and experiences.The story is fiction but soundly and securely rooted in historical and scriptural accuracy. He takes no license with history or scripture.The characters are strong, clearly defined and consistent, and each pulls you in and holds you throughout both books.I was deeply moved, inspired and challenged by the complete story. Honestly, it almost was - in some ways - a review of my conversion experience, which was dynamic and a very long process - not an event, really. Far too complex to make anyone sit and listen to or attempt to encapsulate here.Which is to say, the books were a powerful experience for me, personally.Looking forward to reading them both again - the sign of outstanding fiction! I got audiobook of both books too - awesome knitting/crochet fare - except for the parts where tears are streaming down your face for one reason or another. Fortunately, I knit and crochet "by Braille" and often do not follow a written pattern so it will only be the runny nose part that is a problem.I did not find it slow at any point really, but I appreciate the "foundation building" of a well crafted story so I am paying closer attention to the details some people find "slow."

This continues Maviah's story from AD 30. Now, she's in the desert, queen of her people --the only woman given a voice in council--and facing trials (what's new?). Her beloved Judah is imprisoned by the ruthless betrayer Kahil. Her backstabbing brother (Maliku) continues to side with the enemy. Her people are at risk of starvation. The men want war with those who stole their place, property, and pride. But Maviah seeks to do as Yeshua taught: live with and by peace, not the sword.However, just when it seems that peace will be theirs and starvation averted--unexpected problems. New betrayals. And bad counsel.When Maviah heeds the voice of man and rage and not the voice of Yeshua, when the way of sword seems the right and inevitable course, peace will be lost. And much more than peace. She must seek and find Yeshua's voice again...and that will lead to new surprises for her.The best part of this, for me, is being in Maviah's head and in her voice. She's a hugely likable and courageous character, though not perfect. Like us, she doesn't always know what is the right thing to do and can make mistakes. But Dekker writes her voice very well, nobly.Readers should enjoy visiting the milieu of desert people and their difficult life and foreign ways. Dekker's fantasy/SF fans will enjoy the strategy, machinations, and battling. And those moments of faith when it "feels" like magical-wonder.Christians will enjoy seeing how often (very often) Scripture is used, paraphrased, and integrated into dialogue and character thoughts. The teachings of Christ saturate this story. Here's an example: "He was ruled by bitterness, I by acceptance. He, then, was the slave of this harsh taskmaster called earth, not I. For I was in the world but not of it." Scripture students will think of John 17. Many passages bring verses to mind in this way.POVs alternate (you'll get in more than one character's head depending ont he chapter), but it works fine, so never fear.I would have preferred a different story arc for Judah, but there it is. We can't have it all.A solid read.Dekker's prose is so much improved from when I first read him years and years ago. And I don't doubt it will continue to do so as he weaves exciting tales. While I prefer fantasy as a genre, he's doing quite a good job weaving Biblical Fiction stories for us. Recommended for those who like historical or Biblical or adventure tales. There is violence and some difficult stuff, but that's true to the era's life, right?

Ted Dekker is a master storyteller. The Queen of the orphans and castaways of the dessert is a strong female character who follows Yahweh. She and her Tower Warrior, Saba, show what the realization that they are children of God, the risen Christ means. Amazing story with Jesus in the center of it all!

I now have a betterunderstanding of what exactly Jesus accomplished by surrendering everything to die for us in such a horrendous way!!

This may be the most beautiful book I have ever read. Filled with love and compassion..the author thro his brilliant writing conveys the true teachings and mighty Presence of Yeshua the Christ. If u reflect on everything received here u will receive an awakening into the true meaning of life...just brilliant. Highly recommended.

I have read many books, this one is a true page turner. You will not want to put it down. The references to Yeshua and the Bible are spot on. I recommend this book to Christians who want their imaginations stretched and still want to hear the Word of God.