I received a query about "Shiloh's Rising," to give some background information about the novel.

Firstly, I wrote the book at the heights of being sick--truly at a low ebb in my life. And, to be honest, I was also distant from Him. So I began to ruminate about what life would be like for me if He was upon the earth. It was a desire of my heart to come into His presence--to taste of the Lord Who truly is good.

Secondly, I love the end times, what theologians call eschatology. It can sometimes become a distraction or become too heavily focused upon, in my view, but it is good to understand the Biblical themes about the future. It drew me creatively.

Thirdly, I discovered by writing the novel that I was, actually, exploring a theme which is highly relevant in our culture today. And this is the question of God's goodness. Is He good? And these are questions we're forced to face whenever we ponder theological subjects such as eternal Gehenna, death and suffering in our world, and of the exclusivity of the Christ for salvation--these are all truly questions about His goodness. Can He still be good in light of the reality of eternal suffering, earthly suffering, and one doorway to Heaven (through Christ)?

One other theme I attempt to explore is the approachable nature of God. And His love for justice--especially to those who are most vulnerable--the poor, the marginalised, the forgotten.

My novel is possibly unique--probably breaking novel-writing conventions. The central character is Yeshua, the Lord--with the four strands of different, international characters moving about Him--reacting to Him, encountering Him. I hope it works as a novel.

Thanks for the reader who wrote asking about "Shiloh's Rising."

All the best to all my readers!
Sean Elliot Russell