Tuesday, August 4, 2015

Book Review - A. D. 30 - Abridged Edition

ABOUT THE BOOK:

New York Times bestselling author Ted Dekker offers an exclusive, ebook original novella, an abridgment of A.D. 30, the epic historical novel about a woman who rises to lead her people through following the Way of Jesus. 

THE FORGOTTEN WAY: A.D. 30 tells the story of Maviah, the outcast daughter of a powerful Arabian sheik who is called to protect the very people who rejected her. When enemies launch an attack, she escapes with the help of her father's warriors. Their journey takes her to a brutal world ruled by kings where she must form an unlikely alliance with King Herod of the Jews. Maviah's path also leads her to Yeshua, who offers her a way of life more powerful than any kingdom. Though following him may present an even greater danger, it may be the only way for Maviah to save her people--and herself.

MY REVIEW:

In anticipation of A.D. 33 being released in October, (which I'm really excited about, by the way!) Hatchette Books released an abridged edition (or novella) of A. D. 30.

This story is set during the time when Jesus is at the height of his teaching and his name is known far and wide for his teaching, especially to the Jews.

The novel follows the story of Maviah, a woman who has been rejected by her father and sold into slavery as a young girl. When she has a child of her own, she returns to her father's house where his wife takes her under her wing and protects her. Her marriage to Maviah's father also forms an alliance that protects them. When she dies, their household is attacked and her father turns to her to go to King Herod for help.

She goes on this journey, across the dangerous desert, with the help of two of her father's trusted warriors, Saba and Judah. Judah is captivated by Maviah and calls her the queen of the desert. This touched Maviah's heart as she has always thought so little of herself because others always did.

The story takes us across the desert, into the palaces, and on to the hillsides where Jesus is teaching. Truly, This story is so well written, you feel as though you are on the camels, trekking across the deserts and making your way through this story with Maviah. You feel the eyes of Yeshua and the words of his teachings truly touch your heart as you feel as though you are there at his feet.

I can't say enough wonderful things about this book! The only thing that I didn't like was I was left wanting more of the story! Thankfully, Mr. Dekker is writing a second book to continue the story called A. D. 33. I devoured this book and had a hard time putting it down. I highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a wonderful story full of action and beautiful relationships.

I really liked this abridged edition as it gave me the meat of the story and prepared me for the new book. I think it's a great way for someone who hasn't read the book to catch up quickly on the story. I didn't feel it lost anything in the abridged edition (although, I still loved the full book and really recommend you reading that, too!).  I give this book 5 out of 5 stars!

*This ebook was provided to me for my honest review by Hatchette Books


Blessings - Julie

2 comments:

  1. hmm. I noticed an abridged addition was out. Very different for Ted to do. As I read the full version and liked it very, very much, I won't be reading the abridged. ;)

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