Official Review: The Son of God Series Book 1

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Bomisope
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Official Review: The Son of God Series Book 1

Post by Bomisope »

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Son of God Series Book 1" by Sharon Lindsay.]
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4 out of 4 stars
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The Son of God Series Book 1: Unto Us by Sharon Lindsay is a historical fiction book about the life of Jesus Christ. It is a story that spans the time from his birth to his childhood.

The book begins by exploring the life of Mary, who is the mother of Jesus. She encounters an angel, and the angel proclaims the birth of the Messiah and John (the forerunner of Jesus). However, Mary is espoused to Joseph, and she is of Jewish descent. Mary’s parents find it hard to believe their daughter's story about an angel appearing to her. Later, Mary gets pregnant as prophesied. Joseph feels betrayed, and their trust in God is thoroughly tested. Jesus is born in Bethlehem, but the child faces strong opposition from King Herod. Herod believes that Jesus was born to take his place.

The author brings the entire story of Jesus and how others are affected by his birth to life. For instance, the impact of Herod’s decree, to execute all the children below the age of 2 in Bethlehem, on the populace. Herod orders the killings, but Jesus and his parents escape. The sentiments of the people involved are explored. Furthermore, the book provides valuable insight into the story of creation, the fall of man, and the account of the fallen angels.

I love the fictional elements of the book. The intricate and beautifully narrated plot is highly commendable. Mary’s pregnancy, Joseph’s dream, and their journey out of Israel and back are some of the scenes you should anticipate. The book helps one to understand Joseph’s perspective concerning accepting the responsibility of being the child’s father. The obligation of a father can be a herculean task, especially when it involves a child that is not his. Furthermore, the many challenges the parents face in trying to cope with a son that possesses God's Spirit and powers are expressed realistically. In addition, I appreciate the “index of character” section inserted at the end of the book. It helps to differentiate the fictional characters from the non-fictional ones.

I would have loved to read about how other children and neighbors (excluding relatives) feel and relate to Jesus through his growing years. Notwithstanding, I give the book a rating of 4 out of 4 stars. The book is professionally edited, and it does not contain any noticeable grammatical error. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction books of religious themes. It can be used to teach children about the birth of Christ as well as assist in reaching out to non-believers in the Christian faith.

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The Son of God Series Book 1
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revna01
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Post by revna01 »

I wasn't aware that Mary's parents didn't believe her about the visiting angel and the pregnancy, but it's understandable. I like that we get to see some of Joseph's perspective, as I feel he doesn't really get enough credit in the overall scheme of things. Thank you for your lovely review!
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Kat Berg
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Post by Kat Berg »

I am never quite sure what to think about historical fiction about biblical events. I feel like I am supposed to like them, but they always fall flat for me. However, I am certainly glad you were able to enjoy the book. Thanks for the review.
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Post by crediblereading2 »

This is a real down to earth approach to the biblical story of the birth of Jesus Christ. It also explores the effects of his birth on Joseph and Mary, his earthly parents. I am never bored to hear any good story of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Love your review.
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Post by AmySmiles »

Historical fiction is a hard genre for me especially when it is of a spiritual nature. So much personal interpritation, which I get its just fiction. But I just don't think I would like this. I appreciate the review though.
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Bomisope
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Post by Bomisope »

SABRADLEY wrote: 28 Apr 2018, 08:30 I wasn't aware that Mary's parents didn't believe her about the visiting angel and the pregnancy, but it's understandable. I like that we get to see some of Joseph's perspective, as I feel he doesn't really get enough credit in the overall scheme of things. Thank you for your lovely review!
Getting to have an idea of Joseph's perspective was one of the main reasons I love the book
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stacie k
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Post by stacie k »

It sounds like a helpful tool to immerse yourself in the biblical setting and visualize what it was like. Of course, we must keep in mind that it’s historical fiction and not confuse the facts. It reminds me of much of Francine Rivers’ books. Thanks for a great review!
“The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable.” Proverbs 15:2a
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AkieCJ
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Post by AkieCJ »

It is helpful tool in helping us to regain our faith, and to have little background in Mary's pregnancy. It's a child friendly too.
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Jackie Holycross
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Post by Jackie Holycross »

I like authors who take creative license and fill in the gaps of the Biblical narrative while staying true to the facts. I might look for this one.
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Post by Tbunde5 »

I really appreciate that the author stayed true to the Biblical history. We know so little about the human interactions involved in this period of Christ’s life, so I’m sure it rounds out the story quite well. While the Bible doesn’t tell us what Mary’s parent thought, the culture of the people, added to the natural reaction of a parent, help us to guess pretty well how that conversation may have gone. I hope to read this entire series one of these days.
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