Since
its founding on May 14, 1948, no country has proven more controversial than
Israel as headlines, the world over, challenge its rights as a sovereign nation.
Why does this tiny nation hold the world’s attention and compel governments
around the globe to shun recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s undivided
capital?
In
his debut novel, Torn Blood (Bo Iti Press, October 24, 2013),
author David J. Bain probes these questions in a story that asks if justice can
prevail for a people maligned and persecuted over the ages because of their
birthright.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
David
J. Bain is a
novelist focused on writing stories about the Jewish experience and founder of
Bo Iti Press. His debut book, Torn Blood, released in October 2013.
Before launching his publishing company, he collaborated on two screenplays made
into movies and has been involved in the business world for more than 30 years
where his company publishes technical manuals and he wrote the company’s
occasional newsletter. David, and his wife, Doris, reside in
Oregon.
MY REVIEW:
This book takes a commitment to read, but it's totally worth it, especially if you enjoy the history of Israel and all the intrigue of the Middle East. This book reminds me of the Joel Rosenberg books I've read, but this one is over 500 pages long and more in-depth in history and mystery.
This book has several different plot lines that, at first, are difficult to keep straight, but I found myself able to keep all the characters straight and understand who was being talked about and where. However, because the book is so well written, it was worth the effort. It really focuses on the Israel/Palestinian conflict and gives so much wonderful history to the whole thing.
There are some horrible people in this book, but of course, that's part of the terrorist mind-set. There are some really good people in the book, too. It's the classic good verses evil but done in such a great way, you really have a hard time putting the book down. I especially enjoyed the story line of Jannelle. She's an ordinary woman who is suddenly thrust into a past that she didn't know she had. I couldn't wait to see what happened with her.
You'll wonder for awhile how all these plot lines and characters are connected, but Mr. Bain brings it all together quite successfully and in an really well-written way! I was very surprised how everything played out and I love a book that keeps me guessing that way.
If you enjoy historical fiction - especially regarding Israel - and intrigue, you'll love this book. This book takes a lot of effort, but it's totally worth it. I highly recommend this book!
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Side Door Communications
Blessings - Julie
Julie,
ReplyDeleteI appreciate your thoughtful review of Torn Blood. I wanted to challenge readers perspectives on what comprises protagonists and antagonists. We come away with the knowledge both are subject to their own humanity as we are left with the reality that only what God establishes can stand; a safe position in a novel as well as life.
I am pleased you noted Janelle. I would add Elizabeth to that list as worthy of admiration and respect. Both are incredibly strong women and a good case could be made that the strongest protagonists in Torn Blood are Janelle and Elizabeth.
Torn Blood ended at a pivotal moment with Addison having just begun his journey to discover the enmity endemic in Arabs against Jews. While the foundation of the hatred was portrayed and Addison’s quest gave him a taste of understanding I have a feeling Addison’s appetite has not been sated nor has he given up his efforts to bridge a four thousand year divide but first Addison must discover his heritage, only then can we see what lies ahead.
David J. Bain