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Chronicles of the Kings #4
Faith of My Fathers
King Manasseh and his friend Joshua were nurtured together in the faith of their godly fathers. but anger toward God smolders in Manasseh's heart after his father's unexpected death, and his insecurity makes him easy prey for the false claims of sorcery and divination.
When Joshua stands up for the truth, the battle lines are drawn, and Joshua must flee his life of privilege. Unable to understand why his boyhood friend has turned against him, and why he must stand alone in the face of such opposition, Joshua comes perilously close to losing his faith.
Can Joshua rescue the faithful remnant from Manasseh's persecution? Has it all gone too far...or will he rediscover his father's God?
When Joshua stands up for the truth, the battle lines are drawn, and Joshua must flee his life of privilege. Unable to understand why his boyhood friend has turned against him, and why he must stand alone in the face of such opposition, Joshua comes perilously close to losing his faith.
Can Joshua rescue the faithful remnant from Manasseh's persecution? Has it all gone too far...or will he rediscover his father's God?
311 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1997
344 people are currently reading
2763 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Austin
55 books5,457 followersFor many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba.
It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.
Extended family is also very important to Austin, and it was a lively discussion between Lynn, her mother, grandmother (age 98), and daughter concerning the change in women's roles through the generations that sparked the inspiration for her novel Eve's Daughters.
Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.
Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published 27 novels. Eight of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.
It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.
Extended family is also very important to Austin, and it was a lively discussion between Lynn, her mother, grandmother (age 98), and daughter concerning the change in women's roles through the generations that sparked the inspiration for her novel Eve's Daughters.
Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.
Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published 27 novels. Eight of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 300 reviews
March 7, 2009
Well, I really did enjoy this book, but I didn't think it was as compelling as the first three books in the series, and I'll tell you why. Although it was still a historical novel, it was obviously much more fictionized and less based on the Bible. This in itself is not the author's fault. She was only continuing the story of Hezekiah into his son, Manasseh's reign, but the Bible says decidedly less about Hezekiah's son, and so the author had to imagine an entire storyline to go along with the little that the Bible does say. Although i enjoyed the story that the author gave me in this book, it just didn't have the ring of truth to it that the first three novels did. I am still going to read the last book in the series though! I enjoy this author!
November 27, 2018
This was quite an action packed Biblical fiction with the heartache, running for their lives and other twists happening. This series is taking my experience of King Hezekiah, King Manasseh and Prophet Isaiah to another level!
Joshua was a character I had a love-hate relationship with. I loved his inner strength, his steadfastness and fight for his family, but really wanted to shake him for the way he treated Miriam. So often we judge people on our initial idea of them without getting to know them.
King Manasseh, I felt so sorry for him. He was just so young (12) when he became King and you can clearly see the responsibility was too much for him and that he did not have the proper support which opened him up for bad influences. It was so sad to see that he was doubting what the Baal prophet was saying to him, but it sounded right and at the end his longing to be powerful and greater than his father won over his knowledge of the Torah.
What stood out the most for me was how we should really know and study the word of God to be solid in our faith. If we do not meditate in God's word ourselves, but rely on other people (church, family members etc), we open ourselves to the risk of being influenced by people who misguide us by misrepresenting the word of God - it sounds right, but they manipulate the meaning to their will. I think this becomes so important where more and more "false prophets" are appearing.
Looking forward to the last book in this series.
Content includes: murder (beating off an old man), stoning, rape, talk of orgies and prostitution.
Joshua was a character I had a love-hate relationship with. I loved his inner strength, his steadfastness and fight for his family, but really wanted to shake him for the way he treated Miriam. So often we judge people on our initial idea of them without getting to know them.
King Manasseh, I felt so sorry for him. He was just so young (12) when he became King and you can clearly see the responsibility was too much for him and that he did not have the proper support which opened him up for bad influences. It was so sad to see that he was doubting what the Baal prophet was saying to him, but it sounded right and at the end his longing to be powerful and greater than his father won over his knowledge of the Torah.
What stood out the most for me was how we should really know and study the word of God to be solid in our faith. If we do not meditate in God's word ourselves, but rely on other people (church, family members etc), we open ourselves to the risk of being influenced by people who misguide us by misrepresenting the word of God - it sounds right, but they manipulate the meaning to their will. I think this becomes so important where more and more "false prophets" are appearing.
Looking forward to the last book in this series.
Content includes: murder (beating off an old man), stoning, rape, talk of orgies and prostitution.
January 17, 2024
Me everytime Manasseh opened his mouth:
November 8, 2017
The biblical story of Manasseh is not as extensive as that of his father, Hezekiah, so I guess Lynn Austin didn’t have as much material to work with as for the first 3 books in this series. However, she’s done a good job with imagining the gaps.
I didn’t feel quite as invested in the story of Manasseh as I did in Hezekiah’s story. I also, for some reason, don’t know that I agree with Manasseh being weak and easily led. Although the biblical account is sparse, I imagine that he would have been a stronger and more arrogant king, determined to do whatever he wanted to do. But that is only my opinion!
I liked the story of the fictional Joshua and his family and I look forward to reading the last in the series, Among the Gods, at some point.
I didn’t feel quite as invested in the story of Manasseh as I did in Hezekiah’s story. I also, for some reason, don’t know that I agree with Manasseh being weak and easily led. Although the biblical account is sparse, I imagine that he would have been a stronger and more arrogant king, determined to do whatever he wanted to do. But that is only my opinion!
I liked the story of the fictional Joshua and his family and I look forward to reading the last in the series, Among the Gods, at some point.
September 5, 2023
Book club questions
Faith of my fathers
Chapter ? parallels with Adam and Eve.
“They keep things hidden. The knowledge hidden-“
“Only yawah knows the future.”
“Thats just what the temple wants you to think.”
Pg76 ish
Eliakim-
Have you spoken these prophesys publicly?
1. I saw the lord seated on a throne
2 Seek the lord where he may be found and he will be near
3 god would add 15 years to his life. Although god promised the forfathers a fullifespan.
I spoke the words I was told to speak. Eliakim remarked.
Pg77
Why was this happening? Why hadnt yawhew intervened?
Pg 158
Zerah said there is no such thing as sin.
You wont be free until You realize there is no such thing as sin.
Sin confession sacrifice.
Ch6
Eliakims signate ring. I thought it was interesting that The king refused to touch it. Like he knew what he did he was wrong and the object itself might be cursed.
Ph128
Discuss Manassahs descent into the dark side.
Zerahs lack of knowledge, he relized on Joshua. But joshua was gone so zerah faked it til made the world burn.
What were the two prophecies in this the series, have they come to pass?
Ch 9
Dinah when she was captured and a prisoner wanted to die. Jurusha previously no matter what she went through had wanted to live.
Discuss their journey.
Bottom of Pg151-151
Discussion about why people get mad at God when the good people die.
Ch 10
God created male and female in his own image. Then god must be both. True and authentic worship must acknowledge both.
Shows He twisted all sorts of truths.
Pg179
Women were used for making heirs and that was their only purpose.
Pg 192
Joshua was finished with God and God was finished with him. Discuss.
Pg196^ continued.
“Of course you believe in yawhew you wouldnt be this mad at him if he didn’t exist.”
Yawhews actions dont fit your image of him. He wont do your bidding.
Is your belief limited to one verse?
Pg197-8
Discuss
“I have a right to know why yawhew allowed my father to die.
No you dont.”
“Im not suppsed to ask why?
You can learn through the suffering.”
Pg309
Discuss joshuas rage. He didnt want to leave the lord to do revenge joshua wanted it to be him. Could he turn into a bad man if he let his rage and need for revenge get the better of him?
Pg311
“Miriam… my daughter you are home.”
Faith of my fathers
Chapter ? parallels with Adam and Eve.
“They keep things hidden. The knowledge hidden-“
“Only yawah knows the future.”
“Thats just what the temple wants you to think.”
Pg76 ish
Eliakim-
Have you spoken these prophesys publicly?
1. I saw the lord seated on a throne
2 Seek the lord where he may be found and he will be near
3 god would add 15 years to his life. Although god promised the forfathers a fullifespan.
I spoke the words I was told to speak. Eliakim remarked.
Pg77
Why was this happening? Why hadnt yawhew intervened?
Pg 158
Zerah said there is no such thing as sin.
You wont be free until You realize there is no such thing as sin.
Sin confession sacrifice.
Ch6
Eliakims signate ring. I thought it was interesting that The king refused to touch it. Like he knew what he did he was wrong and the object itself might be cursed.
Ph128
Discuss Manassahs descent into the dark side.
Zerahs lack of knowledge, he relized on Joshua. But joshua was gone so zerah faked it til made the world burn.
What were the two prophecies in this the series, have they come to pass?
Ch 9
Dinah when she was captured and a prisoner wanted to die. Jurusha previously no matter what she went through had wanted to live.
Discuss their journey.
Bottom of Pg151-151
Discussion about why people get mad at God when the good people die.
Ch 10
God created male and female in his own image. Then god must be both. True and authentic worship must acknowledge both.
Shows He twisted all sorts of truths.
Pg179
Women were used for making heirs and that was their only purpose.
Pg 192
Joshua was finished with God and God was finished with him. Discuss.
Pg196^ continued.
“Of course you believe in yawhew you wouldnt be this mad at him if he didn’t exist.”
Yawhews actions dont fit your image of him. He wont do your bidding.
Is your belief limited to one verse?
Pg197-8
Discuss
“I have a right to know why yawhew allowed my father to die.
No you dont.”
“Im not suppsed to ask why?
You can learn through the suffering.”
Pg309
Discuss joshuas rage. He didnt want to leave the lord to do revenge joshua wanted it to be him. Could he turn into a bad man if he let his rage and need for revenge get the better of him?
Pg311
“Miriam… my daughter you are home.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2016
I loved this one so much! It was so fast paced from the beginning and I attached to the characters right away. I am loving this series!
October 31, 2022
So, so good!!
Have been loving this series, only 1 book left for me.
Have been loving this series, only 1 book left for me.
December 19, 2022
Really good story but I don,t care for the horrible violence.
August 6, 2022
This was an insightful and thought-provoking book, a historical and religious fiction about King Manasseh. When his father, King Hezekiah, dies, Manasseh is young. He tries to make sense of things and figure out who to listen to. Pride and control becomes most important and he forgets and ignores God's law and his prophets and priests and leaders. This is the story of what happens. It's a discussion of trust in God even when bad things happen to good people who have trusted in Him and kept His laws. It's a reminder that we can choose to follow God or not.
Here are some good quotes:
"'You have God's Law, Your Majesty. It tells you everything you need to know about your future. If you obey it, you will prosper and live long in this land. You and your children after you. If you reject His law, you will die (p. 34).'"
"'It would be nice to know what's going to happen next, Rabbi.' 'God alone knows. We'll have to rest in Him (p. 44).'"
"King Manasseh had slept poorly, his sleep disturbed by restless dreams of intrigue and conspiracy. He didn't know who to trust in his nightmares, as one by one his faithful servants and friends turned against him, plotting to stab him or strangle him while he slept (p. 58)."
"'Only Yahweh knows the future (p. 73).'"
"Why was this happening? Why hadn't Yahweh intervened to save them? This may indeed be part of God's plan... Eliakim couldn't see how it all fit together (p. 77)."
"'For reasons I cannot know or imagine, King Manasseh has turned against your family. If you go back to Jerusalem your life will be in great danger (p. 79).'"
"'Have you committed your family to God? Have you place them in His hands (p. 82)?'"
"To trust God in the darkness, when the dawn might bring his death... this was the most difficult thing Eliakim had ever done (p. 84)."
"Suddenly Eliakim understood the true root of the king's paranoia. Manasseh would have to live up to Hezekiah's stature in the eyes of his nation. That explained his desperate need to know his future and to learn if Yahweh would perform miracles for him, too (p. 89)."
"Could fear and jealousy explain why Manasseh had turned against Eliakim's family so suddenly (p. 89)?"
"Yahweh was beside him... shielding him with His love (p. 91)."
"As king, he should enjoy equal status with these priests. Instead, he stood as an observer, like all the other men. Only the royal platform set him apart and raised him a few feet above the crowd. The rabbis had taught him that he was also a sinner, no greater in God's eyes than anyone else (p. 100)."
"'Arrest who, my lord?' 'Every priest and Levite who participated in that service (p. 101).'"
"'We can't give into our grief until we find a way to save what's left of our family (p. 102).'"
"'I just lost my father... He was the most important person in my life. I know how much a father means to a boy. I'll try to be a father to you if you'll let me (p. 108).'"
"He wished he could pray. He longed to cry out to God for help so he wouldn't have to face this ordeal alone. But the heavens had turned to stone for him. God hadn't helped Dinah or his grandfather. He had closed His ears to Abba's cries. Why would God listen to him (p. 109)?"
"Yahweh was supposed to guard the steps of those who loved Him. He was supposed to reward the righteous and punish the wicked. A week ago it had all seemed true. A week ago life had made sense. Now the world was spinning out of Yahweh's control (p. 125)."
"As the sky grew bright with stars, Dinah began to tremble. It was almost time. Manasseh would be here soon. If only she had died with her grandfather (p. 132)."
"Where was Abba? Didn't he know Manasseh was holding her here?... 'God will never leave you nor forsake you, Dinah. He is our refuge and strength. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea (p. 133).'"
"'You must learn to trust God, Miriam. He will provide what's best for you (p. 141).'"
"Yahweh knew that Joshua wasn't really praying, that he was only reciting memorized words. But the ritual seemed to give comfort to the other two men (p. 148)."
"'Hang on to Yahweh, Joshua. Cling to Him, just like you're clinging to me. Even in the darkness. Even in the times when it seems like He has forsaken you. Because He hasn't forsaken you (p. 151).'"
"'Manasseh did evil in the eyes of the Lord... He rebuilt the high places his father Hezekiah had destroyed... Manasseh also shed so much innocent blood that he filled Jerusalem from end to end' (2 Kings 21:2-3, 16, p. 153)."
"Like most of Zerah's words, these sounded dangerously close to blasphemy. Yet everything Zerah said always contained a familiar ring of truth. The priest confused Manasseh, leaving him afraid to believe his words and equally afraid not to believe them... he didn't know what to think (p. 156)."
"'Get rid of the concept of sin, Your Majesty, and you will be free. The priests will have no control over you (p. 158).'"
"Jerusha's deep faith and trust in God always prevented her grief from overwhelming her. Miriam wondered what it would be like to have faith like Jerusha's, to have a God you could look to in trust, a God you could call 'Abba' (p. 163)."
"Joshua had survived the loss of everything else in his life by focusing on his love for Yael. She was the reason he got up in the morning, endured hard labor all day, continued living. She had been the only thing God hadn't taken from him. Now Yael was beyond his reach, as well... What had he done to deserve this (p. 190)?"
"'He's forcing us to perform the daily sacrifices and feast days side by side with paganism. If we refuse, he says he'll kill all of us and our families... Please help us, Joshua. We've all heard how you helped your own family escape. Help us escape, too (p. 191).'"
"Joshua realized that they were almost all gone--all the faithful ones of King Hezekiah's generation, the ones who had witnessed Yahweh's miracles (p. 194)."
"'Yahweh's will must be accomplished (p. 196).'"
"'You wouldn't be this angry with Him if you doubted His existence (p. 196).'"
"Yahweh deals with our pride and our self-sufficiency through adversity (p. 197)."
"'You may certainly question Yahweh, but ask the right questions (p. 198).'"
"He didn't want to wrestle with God, and so he answered the questions himself (p. 198)."
"'You've decided to run away from God instead of running to Him (p. 199)?'"
"'You're still looking for a way to cure it yourself... But the only thing that will ever make you feel whole again is a sense of Yahweh's presence in your life... Get still before Yahweh. Seek His face. Then wait for the Lord. Don't be impatient. Remember, Jacob wrestled with God all night until the sun rose, saying, 'I will not let you go unless you bless me.'' (p. 200).'"
"How had Yahweh lost control of His nation? Why had he abandoned His chosen people to this evil man's reign (p. 203)?"
"Why had he allowed his firstborn son to die (p. 206)?"
"Joshua recognized the fullness of her courage. 'My father's prayers were the only reason I made it home.' (p. 213)"
"'Don't forget, Your Majesty, you are the sovereign king of this nation. You have the absolute right to do whatever you please. You are accountable to no one (p. 219).'"
"Manasseh now practiced divination and sorcery. He had erected an Asherah pole and altars to idols. He had sacrificed his firstborn son. But how had the darkness taken control of him and their nation so quickly (p. 221)?"
"Is there a purpose in evil? I need to know! But God remained silent (p. 221)."
"'The king should be the high priest to his own nation! This breastpiece is rightfully yours! (p. 223)"
"Joshua read, fascinated, as Isaiah retold the story of the Assyrian invasion. Joshua read his grandfather's name with pride and pictured his father boldly confronting the Assyrians face-to-face. Both men had faithfully played the part God had given them... And now Joshau heard Yahweh asking him a question: Was he willing to do the same? Would he submit to God's will whether or not he understood it (p. 228)?"
"'After I read all of Isaiah's prophecies I saw that God's eternal plan is so much greater than I ever imagined, yet each of us... have a part to play in His plan. We're here to serve Him, not the other way around... They will carry out God's plan by preserving the truth path to salvation and to God (p. 232)."
"Do you trust God? No matter what happens to you? Whether you live or die (p. 239)?"
"'You want to get even with Manasseh. I don't blame you, Joshau, but revenge is a hunger that can never be satisfied (p. 268).'"
"'What is it, Joshua? What's wrong?'... 'That's my sister! That's Dinah!' (p. 277)"
"The irony of the situation made him want to laugh and weep. This was the first noble deed he had ever attempted in his life, and now he was going to die for it (p. 280)."
"'We're setting up a community in exile to preserve God's Law and the sacrifices (p. 285).'"
"'Someday when I teach my children about Yahweh, I'll tell them how He sent an angel named Hadad to rescue me (p. 304).'"
"Manasseh closed his eyes. He didn't want to hear any more... How had Joshua stolen his wife, his brother, his treasures, and all the priests and Levites right out from under him (p. 306)?"
"'It was her idea to hire the funeral cart... She saved your life, Joshua (p. 308).'"
"'Yahweh saved all of us (p. 309).'"
Here are some good quotes:
"'You have God's Law, Your Majesty. It tells you everything you need to know about your future. If you obey it, you will prosper and live long in this land. You and your children after you. If you reject His law, you will die (p. 34).'"
"'It would be nice to know what's going to happen next, Rabbi.' 'God alone knows. We'll have to rest in Him (p. 44).'"
"King Manasseh had slept poorly, his sleep disturbed by restless dreams of intrigue and conspiracy. He didn't know who to trust in his nightmares, as one by one his faithful servants and friends turned against him, plotting to stab him or strangle him while he slept (p. 58)."
"'Only Yahweh knows the future (p. 73).'"
"Why was this happening? Why hadn't Yahweh intervened to save them? This may indeed be part of God's plan... Eliakim couldn't see how it all fit together (p. 77)."
"'For reasons I cannot know or imagine, King Manasseh has turned against your family. If you go back to Jerusalem your life will be in great danger (p. 79).'"
"'Have you committed your family to God? Have you place them in His hands (p. 82)?'"
"To trust God in the darkness, when the dawn might bring his death... this was the most difficult thing Eliakim had ever done (p. 84)."
"Suddenly Eliakim understood the true root of the king's paranoia. Manasseh would have to live up to Hezekiah's stature in the eyes of his nation. That explained his desperate need to know his future and to learn if Yahweh would perform miracles for him, too (p. 89)."
"Could fear and jealousy explain why Manasseh had turned against Eliakim's family so suddenly (p. 89)?"
"Yahweh was beside him... shielding him with His love (p. 91)."
"As king, he should enjoy equal status with these priests. Instead, he stood as an observer, like all the other men. Only the royal platform set him apart and raised him a few feet above the crowd. The rabbis had taught him that he was also a sinner, no greater in God's eyes than anyone else (p. 100)."
"'Arrest who, my lord?' 'Every priest and Levite who participated in that service (p. 101).'"
"'We can't give into our grief until we find a way to save what's left of our family (p. 102).'"
"'I just lost my father... He was the most important person in my life. I know how much a father means to a boy. I'll try to be a father to you if you'll let me (p. 108).'"
"He wished he could pray. He longed to cry out to God for help so he wouldn't have to face this ordeal alone. But the heavens had turned to stone for him. God hadn't helped Dinah or his grandfather. He had closed His ears to Abba's cries. Why would God listen to him (p. 109)?"
"Yahweh was supposed to guard the steps of those who loved Him. He was supposed to reward the righteous and punish the wicked. A week ago it had all seemed true. A week ago life had made sense. Now the world was spinning out of Yahweh's control (p. 125)."
"As the sky grew bright with stars, Dinah began to tremble. It was almost time. Manasseh would be here soon. If only she had died with her grandfather (p. 132)."
"Where was Abba? Didn't he know Manasseh was holding her here?... 'God will never leave you nor forsake you, Dinah. He is our refuge and strength. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea (p. 133).'"
"'You must learn to trust God, Miriam. He will provide what's best for you (p. 141).'"
"Yahweh knew that Joshua wasn't really praying, that he was only reciting memorized words. But the ritual seemed to give comfort to the other two men (p. 148)."
"'Hang on to Yahweh, Joshua. Cling to Him, just like you're clinging to me. Even in the darkness. Even in the times when it seems like He has forsaken you. Because He hasn't forsaken you (p. 151).'"
"'Manasseh did evil in the eyes of the Lord... He rebuilt the high places his father Hezekiah had destroyed... Manasseh also shed so much innocent blood that he filled Jerusalem from end to end' (2 Kings 21:2-3, 16, p. 153)."
"Like most of Zerah's words, these sounded dangerously close to blasphemy. Yet everything Zerah said always contained a familiar ring of truth. The priest confused Manasseh, leaving him afraid to believe his words and equally afraid not to believe them... he didn't know what to think (p. 156)."
"'Get rid of the concept of sin, Your Majesty, and you will be free. The priests will have no control over you (p. 158).'"
"Jerusha's deep faith and trust in God always prevented her grief from overwhelming her. Miriam wondered what it would be like to have faith like Jerusha's, to have a God you could look to in trust, a God you could call 'Abba' (p. 163)."
"Joshua had survived the loss of everything else in his life by focusing on his love for Yael. She was the reason he got up in the morning, endured hard labor all day, continued living. She had been the only thing God hadn't taken from him. Now Yael was beyond his reach, as well... What had he done to deserve this (p. 190)?"
"'He's forcing us to perform the daily sacrifices and feast days side by side with paganism. If we refuse, he says he'll kill all of us and our families... Please help us, Joshua. We've all heard how you helped your own family escape. Help us escape, too (p. 191).'"
"Joshua realized that they were almost all gone--all the faithful ones of King Hezekiah's generation, the ones who had witnessed Yahweh's miracles (p. 194)."
"'Yahweh's will must be accomplished (p. 196).'"
"'You wouldn't be this angry with Him if you doubted His existence (p. 196).'"
"Yahweh deals with our pride and our self-sufficiency through adversity (p. 197)."
"'You may certainly question Yahweh, but ask the right questions (p. 198).'"
"He didn't want to wrestle with God, and so he answered the questions himself (p. 198)."
"'You've decided to run away from God instead of running to Him (p. 199)?'"
"'You're still looking for a way to cure it yourself... But the only thing that will ever make you feel whole again is a sense of Yahweh's presence in your life... Get still before Yahweh. Seek His face. Then wait for the Lord. Don't be impatient. Remember, Jacob wrestled with God all night until the sun rose, saying, 'I will not let you go unless you bless me.'' (p. 200).'"
"How had Yahweh lost control of His nation? Why had he abandoned His chosen people to this evil man's reign (p. 203)?"
"Why had he allowed his firstborn son to die (p. 206)?"
"Joshua recognized the fullness of her courage. 'My father's prayers were the only reason I made it home.' (p. 213)"
"'Don't forget, Your Majesty, you are the sovereign king of this nation. You have the absolute right to do whatever you please. You are accountable to no one (p. 219).'"
"Manasseh now practiced divination and sorcery. He had erected an Asherah pole and altars to idols. He had sacrificed his firstborn son. But how had the darkness taken control of him and their nation so quickly (p. 221)?"
"Is there a purpose in evil? I need to know! But God remained silent (p. 221)."
"'The king should be the high priest to his own nation! This breastpiece is rightfully yours! (p. 223)"
"Joshua read, fascinated, as Isaiah retold the story of the Assyrian invasion. Joshua read his grandfather's name with pride and pictured his father boldly confronting the Assyrians face-to-face. Both men had faithfully played the part God had given them... And now Joshau heard Yahweh asking him a question: Was he willing to do the same? Would he submit to God's will whether or not he understood it (p. 228)?"
"'After I read all of Isaiah's prophecies I saw that God's eternal plan is so much greater than I ever imagined, yet each of us... have a part to play in His plan. We're here to serve Him, not the other way around... They will carry out God's plan by preserving the truth path to salvation and to God (p. 232)."
"Do you trust God? No matter what happens to you? Whether you live or die (p. 239)?"
"'You want to get even with Manasseh. I don't blame you, Joshau, but revenge is a hunger that can never be satisfied (p. 268).'"
"'What is it, Joshua? What's wrong?'... 'That's my sister! That's Dinah!' (p. 277)"
"The irony of the situation made him want to laugh and weep. This was the first noble deed he had ever attempted in his life, and now he was going to die for it (p. 280)."
"'We're setting up a community in exile to preserve God's Law and the sacrifices (p. 285).'"
"'Someday when I teach my children about Yahweh, I'll tell them how He sent an angel named Hadad to rescue me (p. 304).'"
"Manasseh closed his eyes. He didn't want to hear any more... How had Joshua stolen his wife, his brother, his treasures, and all the priests and Levites right out from under him (p. 306)?"
"'It was her idea to hire the funeral cart... She saved your life, Joshua (p. 308).'"
"'Yahweh saved all of us (p. 309).'"
September 22, 2019
Austin continues the Chronicles of the Kings series with a focus on King Mannaseh, son of Hezekiah, and his palace administrator, Joshua son of Eliakim. Anger toward God because of Hezekiah's early death, Mannaseh plunges his rain into mysticism, idolatry, and chaos. As he feels that a conspiracy is brewing against him prophets and faithful Jews who hold office are executed one after another. Others, including Joshua, escape for their lives. Her tale is rich with historical detail and Biblical basis. She includes many pagan beliefs not to glorify the, but rather to warn readers of their dangers and lies that lure the people that practice them including the twists of Scripture or use out of context that are the marks of a cult.
Well written, this book brings this period to life and will draw readers back to God's Word to refresh their minds with the truth about this time period.
Well written, this book brings this period to life and will draw readers back to God's Word to refresh their minds with the truth about this time period.
December 10, 2023
In the fourth installment of the Chronicles of the Kings series, Lynn Austin skillfully depicts Manasseh’s ascension to the throne following his father King Hezekiah’s death. The author effectively portrays the plausible consequences of Manasseh’s wicked deeds driven by pride and fear. Zerah’s character, with its persuasive nature, serves as a compelling reflection of how doubt in God’s goodness can be influenced, akin to the devil’s tactics. While the book was enjoyable, it slightly deviates from Austin’s usual biblical accuracy. Despite the limited biblical information on Manasseh, Austin successfully weaves a captivating story aligned with historical context. I look forward to completing the series to unravel the fate of Joshua, Manasseh, and the other characters. The incorporation of subtle details from previous books, such as Hadad’s straight white teeth, added a delightful touch. Also, Suzanne Toren’s dramatic narration significantly enhanced the overall listening experience.
June 17, 2024
I was a little disappointed when I first realized the story was no longer following King Hezekiah. I was even more distraught when my favorite characters (spoiler alert) were maliciously killed. BUT the author stayed true to biblical events which I appreciated (kinda).
Once I was past the vicious events that caused me to keep setting my book down, I embraced the characters I now had. Lynn Austin brings these Bible stories to life in a personal way. I REALLY resonated with Joshua- because even though our circumstances are so different, our questions to God, and problems in life are parallel. I found encouragement and new perspectives, not only through his character, but many others. I’ve reflected on my walk with God and thought on what I wanted that to look like even more. Now of course this does not replace the Bible in anyway, but Austin does a good job of showing how scripture can be related to your own personal life.
I have one book left in this series and I cannot wait to see how it ends. I already know redemption will be prevalent!
Once I was past the vicious events that caused me to keep setting my book down, I embraced the characters I now had. Lynn Austin brings these Bible stories to life in a personal way. I REALLY resonated with Joshua- because even though our circumstances are so different, our questions to God, and problems in life are parallel. I found encouragement and new perspectives, not only through his character, but many others. I’ve reflected on my walk with God and thought on what I wanted that to look like even more. Now of course this does not replace the Bible in anyway, but Austin does a good job of showing how scripture can be related to your own personal life.
I have one book left in this series and I cannot wait to see how it ends. I already know redemption will be prevalent!
April 5, 2022
Faith of My Fathers (Chronicles of the Kings #4) continues the narrative of OT kings by telling the story of King Manasseh. Becoming the king at age 12, Manasseh struggles as king in the shadow of his father, the beloved and God-blessed King Hezekiah. Unfortunately it doesn't go well.
Because of the mature themes of child sacrifice, rape, and pagan worship, I would say it is appropriate for mature teens and adults. I do love this series though, as it makes the Bible (and specifically those lists of kings in the Old Testament) come alive. This is my second time reading through the series, and it probably won't be my last time.
Because of the mature themes of child sacrifice, rape, and pagan worship, I would say it is appropriate for mature teens and adults. I do love this series though, as it makes the Bible (and specifically those lists of kings in the Old Testament) come alive. This is my second time reading through the series, and it probably won't be my last time.
July 16, 2017
I thought this book was just so well crafted. I've enjoyed this series and appreciate the fact that the author uses additional historical sources to make these stories move along. Of course there is fiction, and supposition, but I still find it amazing that she is able to do this. God didn't tell us everything, and historians aren't always sure what to record and what is insignificant, so we can only imagine. But I love imagining along with these great books!
April 16, 2020
Ohh my goodness. This book made me happy, excited, sad, angry, feeling like I would be one of the persons from book who is in danger. It's reflecting some struggles that everyone can have and I think also has in hard times. And then you realize that God has everything in control, you just have to trust in His suvereign will. Thank you Lynn Austin for writing this book. Can't wait to see what will happen in the 5th book.
March 9, 2024
This is such an incredible book. Joshua and Manassas are childhood friends, but Manassas paranoia leads him to kill members of Joshua's family. Now, Manassas is Joshua's enemy, and he will do whatever it takes to make Manassas pay. Joshua is humbled, and he has to escape Jerusalem and hide with his family in Moab.
A well written and researched novelization of the raign of King Manassas. 🤴 Highly Recommended.
A well written and researched novelization of the raign of King Manassas. 🤴 Highly Recommended.
June 5, 2023
Loved this! Will be starting the next (and final) book in this series immediately. I have almost read all of Lynn Austin books and don’t know what I’ll do with myself when I run out of her books to read.
May 10, 2024
Wow. Wow wow wow. This series is probably the best series I have ever read. The depth, the emotion, the captivating plot... I love this. It is definitely not everyone's cup of tea, but if you are in the mood for a life changing, heartbreaking, hope filled story about how God can use the worst situations for His good purpose and glory, this series is a must-read. Can't wait to read the next book.
June 18, 2018
In this 4th book of the series, Lynn Austin begins the next generation with King Manasseh years later. If you've read the first 3 books of the series, this book brings you through several emotions!
June 8, 2019
Another great addition to this series. Looking forward to reading the next one now, but also not looking forward to it as it is the last in the series.
February 15, 2020
While I enjoyed this book I felt like much more of it was based on fiction than history. I didn’t give less stars for this, just an observation. The twisting of scripture, however, was almost too prevalent, even though it was part of the story. I didn’t like the feeling it gave me while reading.
January 9, 2022
Wee, finished up the fourth book for the second time! Now onto the fifth one, which I haven't read yet.
June 7, 2021
I spent the day in airports and in the air and it passed so quickly because I was glued to this book. Another winner. Loved it. On to the next one!
January 22, 2018
4.5 stars
I really loved the main character in the first three books, King Hezekiah. Now his son, Manasseh, has taken over and he is an idiot. However, still a great read and all other characters are great!
I really loved the main character in the first three books, King Hezekiah. Now his son, Manasseh, has taken over and he is an idiot. However, still a great read and all other characters are great!
April 11, 2023
Phew this one took me a bit longer to get through than others in the series, it just felt heavier to me. I still enjoyed it but had to take in smaller bits at a time.
April 26, 2020
على عكس الأجزاء اللي فاتت اللي بتتكلم عن فترة حزقيا من نبوات إشعياء النبي، فترة منسّى ماتقالش عنها كتير في الكتاب المقدس، و بالتالي الجزء ده نسبة القصة و الخيال فيه أكتر بكتير من الباقي ... بس برضه قصة كويسة، و مافيش تعارض مع اللي اتقال في الكتاب المقدس
July 28, 2025
This whole series of 4 books was a real good lesson in how things could have happened in the Old Testament in a historical way. I loved the details of life then and being able to "read between the lines" of the few details given in the Bible. I had pondered how such a "good" king as Hezekiah was could have produced a son who went on to do such horrible, evil deeds. This series of books gives a possible story to that line. I highly recommend this series to those who enjoy reading old history!
July 19, 2018
This book was AMAZING . . . tense, difficult to read because of how wrong people acted and reacted, but amazingly well-written. Following the death of King Hezekiah, this is the story of King Manasseh's sinful reign. The overall message of this book is that God cannot be contained in human understanding. He is God, we aren't!
***favorite quotes***
"You're angry . . . because Yahweh's actions don't fit your image of Him. The idol you've made won't do your bidding."
"You may certainly question Yahweh, but ask the right questions. . . Ask Him what He wants to teach you through this suffering. Ask which of your faults, like pride or self-sufficiency or self-righteousness, He's trying to purge from you. Ask which of His eternal qualities, like love and compassion and forgiveness, He wants to burn into your heart. . . Ask why He gave you the talents and gifts that He did . . . Ask Him what He wants you to do with your life."
"True believers . . . didn't try to bargain with Yahweh; instead, they were willing to bend to His sovereign will."
"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways," declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts."
"We're here to serve Him, not the other way around."
***favorite quotes***
"You're angry . . . because Yahweh's actions don't fit your image of Him. The idol you've made won't do your bidding."
"You may certainly question Yahweh, but ask the right questions. . . Ask Him what He wants to teach you through this suffering. Ask which of your faults, like pride or self-sufficiency or self-righteousness, He's trying to purge from you. Ask which of His eternal qualities, like love and compassion and forgiveness, He wants to burn into your heart. . . Ask why He gave you the talents and gifts that He did . . . Ask Him what He wants you to do with your life."
"True believers . . . didn't try to bargain with Yahweh; instead, they were willing to bend to His sovereign will."
"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways," declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts."
"We're here to serve Him, not the other way around."
February 3, 2011
Listened to the first 6 CDs, skipped to disc 10 and didn't miss anything. Its historical fiction about Manassah's reign. Manassah basically felt neglected by his Dad Hezekiah who died young. He blames the early death on God. He happens to meet a sorcerer who makes him believe that his close friends and counselors are conspiring against him, and so he goes on a rampage and tries to kill them. His childhood friend, named Joshua, escapes, plots revenge, and returns to steal the ark of the covenant by making large jars of olive oil explode on the temple mount. Of course, in the midst of all this, there is a bit of sexual tension here. Joshua is engaged to the lovely Yael and is determined to marry her. But when he escapes, he encounters a servant girl Miriam who, after nursing him back to health, starts to like him, but Joshua does not like her. We are torn.
I asked myself, why do I not like this? I think one of the big problems is that it is just modern American Pop Christianity imputed into the past history of the Bible, which, I have to admit, is not all bad - mostly, it is just a bit boring and cliched I guess. Although, having huge jars of olive oil literally explode on the temple mount is interesting. I didn't know olive oil could explode.
I asked myself, why do I not like this? I think one of the big problems is that it is just modern American Pop Christianity imputed into the past history of the Bible, which, I have to admit, is not all bad - mostly, it is just a bit boring and cliched I guess. Although, having huge jars of olive oil literally explode on the temple mount is interesting. I didn't know olive oil could explode.
June 6, 2013
The bibical account of King Manaseh and his fall from God. As always reading these accounts, you can see how it applies to our lives as well. King Manaseh wanted God's blessing but wanted them on his terms with his insecurities. His father King Hezikiah was a great king of Israel who followed after God with his own weakness, however, his son did not because his jealousy and insecurities kept him far from the Lord. You really see how as Christians we can be just like King Manaseh. We worship God in our image instead of who He is according to the word. Joshua also struggled with his relationship with the Lord because of the trials he and his family went thru. Not realizing the sovereignity of the Lord, he struggled. However, it is in the struggles when we have opportunity for faith to take hold and know the Lord.
The only down fall of this book is the language. To much slang for me. However, it did not keep me from enjoying this historical bibical account. Appreciated the research done on this and look forward to reading the last one.
The only down fall of this book is the language. To much slang for me. However, it did not keep me from enjoying this historical bibical account. Appreciated the research done on this and look forward to reading the last one.
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