The End of the Magi by Patrick W. Carr

Myrad, raised in the streets with a club foot, is adopted into a magi’s home. He is taught the skills the magi have preserved for centuries.    His adventures take him through the desert, escaping for his life. His intelligence and cunning prove invaluable, and he manages to outwit his pursuers and secure a place for himself in a wealthy merchant’s family. As he meets up with other magi, he is persuaded to begin a new quest—the search for the Messiah.

Even though I have read many other Biblical fiction novels, this one exposed me to elements of life during that time period that I was unaware of.   The author has evidently done his research and sets the story in a somewhat turbulent political climate.

The main character, Myrad, was intriguing. I was amazed by his shrewdness and ability to survive whatever life threw his way. Because he was an underdog, I found him endearing. Personally, I had hopes for a different ending for Myrad’s story, so I was a little disappointed. But overall, I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to those who relish a good adventure story.   I received a free copy of this from the publisher for this, my honest review.

New Allegory by Rachel and Tedd Dekker

The Girl Behind the Red Rope

Perfect love casts out fear is the premise behind Rachel and Tedd Dekker’s latest novel, The Girl Behind the Red Rope.  It has elements of allegory, but I found myself trying to decide how to interpret it.  Near the end of the book, the authors spell it out for the reader, which I found helpful.

 

Grace is part of a community of believers who have secluded themselves for protection against the Fury, which will destroy the world in the near future.  Her estranged father returns to the community and brings the boy Eli, who enlightens Grace to the slavery of fear.  The community’s fear is so deeply ingrained that it will destroy them unless Grace can help them to see the truth.

The authors give the reader much to ponder and write in the famed Dekker style, with lots of psychological suspense which keeps the reader engaged.

Fans of the Dekkers or Frank Peretti will enjoy this thought-provoking novel. I received a free copy from the publisher for this, my honest review.