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Quest for the Nail Prints
When unexpected circumstances bring a doctor, a pastor, and a professor to Israel during Holy Week, they are suddenly thrust back in time to first-century Jerusalem. There they come face to face with Jesus of Nazareth on his way to the cross, an encounter that changes their lives forever.
352 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
August 9, 2014
I can't say that I don't really like it, but I can't say it was okay either.
What I liked about the book:
The storyline of three characters who meet on their way to Israel, each with a different agenda. Paul, the pastor with a lukewarm faith; Elizabeth, the doctor with a dead faith; von Eaton, the professor with no faith, are thrown together into a journey that takes them to the very week of the Crucifixion of Christ. As they literally walk with Jesus, their lives are transformed.
What I didn't like about the book:
There are instances of too much telling about what is happening, instead of showing. Head-hopping, i.e. jumping from one person's point of view to another person's in the same scene, happened once too often. Flashbacks happened too often and pulled me from the story. Apart from the technical issues of the writing, the characters started in a solid fashion, but the writing felt flat after a while of reading, and the characters became more two-dimensional. Also, the audacity of the author to write in Jesus' POV was just plain wrong. (This is the same reason I stopped reading Norman Mailer). No one can understand, nor perceive, the mind or thoughts of Jesus Christ, who is God.
It felt as though the author had no idea which way to go with the story after the first few chapters. Events are glossed over, emotions are barely shown, and the relationships between the characters were too stiff.
I gave this book three tries, handed it to another avid reader and even she couldn't finish the book for the same reasons listed above.
If a person who is interested in learning more about Jesus and true Christianity, this book would become a stumbling block to them.
This book has promise. This book has a great idea,(spoiler alert)other than the idea of Peter coming into the future. With great editing and rework, Quest for the Nail Prints could be an exceptional novel.
What I liked about the book:
The storyline of three characters who meet on their way to Israel, each with a different agenda. Paul, the pastor with a lukewarm faith; Elizabeth, the doctor with a dead faith; von Eaton, the professor with no faith, are thrown together into a journey that takes them to the very week of the Crucifixion of Christ. As they literally walk with Jesus, their lives are transformed.
What I didn't like about the book:
There are instances of too much telling about what is happening, instead of showing. Head-hopping, i.e. jumping from one person's point of view to another person's in the same scene, happened once too often. Flashbacks happened too often and pulled me from the story. Apart from the technical issues of the writing, the characters started in a solid fashion, but the writing felt flat after a while of reading, and the characters became more two-dimensional. Also, the audacity of the author to write in Jesus' POV was just plain wrong. (This is the same reason I stopped reading Norman Mailer). No one can understand, nor perceive, the mind or thoughts of Jesus Christ, who is God.
It felt as though the author had no idea which way to go with the story after the first few chapters. Events are glossed over, emotions are barely shown, and the relationships between the characters were too stiff.
I gave this book three tries, handed it to another avid reader and even she couldn't finish the book for the same reasons listed above.
If a person who is interested in learning more about Jesus and true Christianity, this book would become a stumbling block to them.
This book has promise. This book has a great idea,(spoiler alert)other than the idea of Peter coming into the future. With great editing and rework, Quest for the Nail Prints could be an exceptional novel.
April 26, 2014
The premise of this book was very interesting...three strangers on a plane find they have traveled back in time to the days just before Jesus's crucifixion. It allows the reader to really consider the horror and suffering that Jesus endured in a different way - from the perspective of people who already knew the wonderful end of the story. And, even in the knowing, reading of Jesus's final days on earth brought tears to my eyes and made me wonder, as I have so many times before, at the depths man can go to destroy what is good.
I don't mean to make this sound as if the whole story is depressing...on the contrary - because any believer in Jesus knows the story does NOT end there. A surprising little twist at the end has me wanting to read the next book to see where Mr. Furr takes it. If you are not a Christ follower, this may be just another unbelievable story...or it just might make you want to learn more about Jesus. So, give it a try...what have you got to lose?
I don't mean to make this sound as if the whole story is depressing...on the contrary - because any believer in Jesus knows the story does NOT end there. A surprising little twist at the end has me wanting to read the next book to see where Mr. Furr takes it. If you are not a Christ follower, this may be just another unbelievable story...or it just might make you want to learn more about Jesus. So, give it a try...what have you got to lose?
September 1, 2018
This book introduces the reader to three main characters who did not know each other but were stranded in the Holy Lands because their next flight was not available for them. Then they suddenly were taken back in time to the days before Jesus's crucifixion, His crucifixion, and His resurrection. The reader will feel as if he or she is present during this time.
August 23, 2025
To those who gave this book anything less than4;stars...... especially those who gave it a one or two stars... Did you read it when you were smoking crack? Go back reading your Nacy Drew books!!!
June 10, 2012
This is Sheaf House Publishers’ second time-travel book. Its first, Seasons in the Mist by Deb Kinnard, won an award, and deservedly so, especially if you’ve a love of Cornwall, England.
Furr’s book, Quest for the Nail Prints takes us back to Jerusalem 2,000 years ago.
As many of us know, book covers can make or break a book’s sales. When I purchased Quest for the Nails, I thought the cover aptly fit the book’s premise of going back to the Holy Land. The hole drilled through the book, though, threw me. I thought it a gimmick and, as I read along, became somewhat annoyed by it. Seemed like a lot of wasted space on every page. But as I sank deeper into the plot, the hole seemed to disappear, only to come around again at the book’s end and take on a significant meaning for me. Now I love that hole.
Furr takes risks in Quest for the Nail Prints, something readers will discover and wrestle with. I love that Furr answered some questions for me, in particular, the man carrying a jar. Quest for the Nail Prints takes readers on a journey between modern day and the first Holy Week. Three modern day travelers involuntarily journey to 33 A.D., where they live and breathe with the people with whom Jesus traveled and lived during the last week of his pre-resurrection life.
The characters in this book are human. The modern-day Christians in Quest for the Nails don’t always live the Golden Rule. They judge, they ignore, they hesitate, they fail. At times, they embarrassingly do so while Jesus is looking on. They are full-heartedly human. This made for a surprisingly realistic, relatable and hence, personal, perspective.
Though Quest for the Nail Prints is clearly a work of fiction, it is an interesting exploration of the “what abouts, ifs and buts” of living in the land when Jesus did. One cannot read this book without feeling near to Jesus. Furr puts us in the main character’s heads and even at times, in Jesus’s head.
I don’t know about you, but at times when reading Scripture, I’ve wondered why Jesus’s disciples didn’t say what I think I would have said or acted in a more courageous way. Furr explores that in Quest for the Nail Prints and makes us walk a mile in someone else’s shoes. It’s one thing to read the history of Jesus and the disciples in Scripture; it’s another to live Scripture after it has already happened. The book puts a spin on WWJD and makes the reader think, “What Would I Do?” if faced with the opportunity to live during Holy Week with Jesus; to speak or act, given the same scenario. I became more compassionate for the disciples; they didn’t have the hindsight that I do or the time travelers do.
Furr makes the story come alive of Mary washing Jesus’s feet with expensive perfume. The scene is simple yet profound. A gesture of love given, received, and then given to Mary again. A perfect, lived-out circle of blessing.
Thanks for a fine read, Don Furr.
Furr’s book, Quest for the Nail Prints takes us back to Jerusalem 2,000 years ago.
As many of us know, book covers can make or break a book’s sales. When I purchased Quest for the Nails, I thought the cover aptly fit the book’s premise of going back to the Holy Land. The hole drilled through the book, though, threw me. I thought it a gimmick and, as I read along, became somewhat annoyed by it. Seemed like a lot of wasted space on every page. But as I sank deeper into the plot, the hole seemed to disappear, only to come around again at the book’s end and take on a significant meaning for me. Now I love that hole.
Furr takes risks in Quest for the Nail Prints, something readers will discover and wrestle with. I love that Furr answered some questions for me, in particular, the man carrying a jar. Quest for the Nail Prints takes readers on a journey between modern day and the first Holy Week. Three modern day travelers involuntarily journey to 33 A.D., where they live and breathe with the people with whom Jesus traveled and lived during the last week of his pre-resurrection life.
The characters in this book are human. The modern-day Christians in Quest for the Nails don’t always live the Golden Rule. They judge, they ignore, they hesitate, they fail. At times, they embarrassingly do so while Jesus is looking on. They are full-heartedly human. This made for a surprisingly realistic, relatable and hence, personal, perspective.
Though Quest for the Nail Prints is clearly a work of fiction, it is an interesting exploration of the “what abouts, ifs and buts” of living in the land when Jesus did. One cannot read this book without feeling near to Jesus. Furr puts us in the main character’s heads and even at times, in Jesus’s head.
I don’t know about you, but at times when reading Scripture, I’ve wondered why Jesus’s disciples didn’t say what I think I would have said or acted in a more courageous way. Furr explores that in Quest for the Nail Prints and makes us walk a mile in someone else’s shoes. It’s one thing to read the history of Jesus and the disciples in Scripture; it’s another to live Scripture after it has already happened. The book puts a spin on WWJD and makes the reader think, “What Would I Do?” if faced with the opportunity to live during Holy Week with Jesus; to speak or act, given the same scenario. I became more compassionate for the disciples; they didn’t have the hindsight that I do or the time travelers do.
Furr makes the story come alive of Mary washing Jesus’s feet with expensive perfume. The scene is simple yet profound. A gesture of love given, received, and then given to Mary again. A perfect, lived-out circle of blessing.
Thanks for a fine read, Don Furr.
September 11, 2014
Dr. Elizabeth Stewart works with the Memphis Hospital Wing, an air medivac unit serving the Elvis Presley Memorial Trauma Unit. She is a strong believer but wonders why the Lord didn’t hear her prayer to save a thirteen year old boy taken from a car crash as she prepares to help start a new trauma unit in Israel. Professor Leonardo Van Eaton teaches religious history at Georgetown University. He was raised in a religious home but has become cynical over the years, especially since his beloved wife died, and is now headed to address a conference in India via Israel. Paul Ryann is a minister in Memphis, TN. Deeply concerned about his dear stepfather who is dealing with cancer, he is living out his lifetime dream of visiting Israel as a gift from his parents.
These three individuals meet in Jerusalem and through a series of shocking and frightening events are transported back in time to the week of Christ’s crucifixion where they have an opportunity to meet and form a personal relationship with Jesus and his apostles. Of course, they know what will happen to Jesus. But what will happen to them? Can their presence change anything? Will they ever be able to get back home? And how will their lives be affected by their experiences? When this book was initially published in 2010 it was subtitled “Three Men In Time,” so I don’t know if the doctor was changed to female in the second edition or not. There are a couple of common euphemisms and one instance of “My God” as an exclamation. However, the book is not for young children. A rape scene occurs resulting in a possible murder, a Roman soldier is said to have urinated from his horse, and Dr. Stewart’s brother is identified as a homosexual who has been delivered from that lifestyle.
Some people may not like the growing relationship between the minister who is married and female doctor who is divorced as something inappropriate that could damage a marriage. However, the author specifically says that it was “pure friendship” and nothing untoward actually takes place. A few other items that might be subjects for disagreement are a couple of miracles by Jesus that seemed incomplete, the picture of using only one chalice at the last supper, and a reference to three Magi. Also, the “nail print” that goes through the whole book may seem more like a gimmick than anything substantial. However, in spite of these small quibbles, I basically enjoyed the story. A Study and Discussion Guide is found in the back for use in personal study or group discussions. A sequel, Peter’s Quest, in which the apostle Peter time travels forward to the present day, was due out in the spring of 2014 but apparently has not yet been published. Furr’s website says that it is “coming soon.”
These three individuals meet in Jerusalem and through a series of shocking and frightening events are transported back in time to the week of Christ’s crucifixion where they have an opportunity to meet and form a personal relationship with Jesus and his apostles. Of course, they know what will happen to Jesus. But what will happen to them? Can their presence change anything? Will they ever be able to get back home? And how will their lives be affected by their experiences? When this book was initially published in 2010 it was subtitled “Three Men In Time,” so I don’t know if the doctor was changed to female in the second edition or not. There are a couple of common euphemisms and one instance of “My God” as an exclamation. However, the book is not for young children. A rape scene occurs resulting in a possible murder, a Roman soldier is said to have urinated from his horse, and Dr. Stewart’s brother is identified as a homosexual who has been delivered from that lifestyle.
Some people may not like the growing relationship between the minister who is married and female doctor who is divorced as something inappropriate that could damage a marriage. However, the author specifically says that it was “pure friendship” and nothing untoward actually takes place. A few other items that might be subjects for disagreement are a couple of miracles by Jesus that seemed incomplete, the picture of using only one chalice at the last supper, and a reference to three Magi. Also, the “nail print” that goes through the whole book may seem more like a gimmick than anything substantial. However, in spite of these small quibbles, I basically enjoyed the story. A Study and Discussion Guide is found in the back for use in personal study or group discussions. A sequel, Peter’s Quest, in which the apostle Peter time travels forward to the present day, was due out in the spring of 2014 but apparently has not yet been published. Furr’s website says that it is “coming soon.”
February 19, 2013
First of all, a book with a hole drilled through it from front cover to back does certainly catch one’s eye. That they represent the nails driven through the hands of Jesus lets one know that this book will be special.
Three ordinary people, a pastor, a believing doctor, and an agnostic professor, take a wrong turn in Jerusalem on a trip to the Holy Land and end up back in time to the last week of Jesus’ life. So many questions arise from this scenario. What would it like to be face to face and physically embraced by Jesus and hear Him call me by name? As the author expresses this thought: “How is it possible I am in the presence of the living, breathing Son of God. . . . . . . .the human embodiment of the God of the universe”? Paul and Elizabeth sit with the disciples as Jesus speaks, and yet realizing that they were in the peculiar position of having more insight into what Jesus was saying and what was happening than the disciples themselves since the time travelers knew what would happen next. They marveled at the blasé boredom on the faces of some in the crowd and the way Jesus’ words seemed to fly over the heads of even His closest friends. Then the big issue, if you know that someone you love will be betrayed and murdered, what would you do to stop it? Or should you just stay on the sidelines and watch?
The professor’s first century experience is completely different. He ignores the testimony of his own eyes even after he is the recipient of a miracle. He blindly follows his own path of greed and self-interest, resolutely disregarding any sense of morality in his actions. Why was he sent back to this place in time? Will he ever see Jesus for who He is?
So many questions are raised: what does Jesus dream? What if Jesus had chosen the 21st century to have been born—would things have been different?
The story is very readable and engaging with an intriguing premise. Like Leon, Liz and Paul, we are unsure of how they got there and why. The author expresses it this way: “Three lone threads in a tapestry without a clue as to the magnificent pattern God was weaving.” Like Liz and Paul, we are privileged to hear Jesus speak to us with all the insight available to us as Post-Resurrection People. How amazing it would be to be in their shoes!
I received this book in a giveaway but the thoughts expressed are solely mine.
September 7, 2012
Since no man knows the future, who can tell him what is to come? || Ecclesiastes 8:7
If you’ve ever dreamt of spending time with Jesus during his earthly journey, this forceful and ultimately gut-wrenching thriller will, perhaps, be the nearest you’ll ever come to.
At first glance I was deeply intrigued, not because it was something which I was looking for, but for the unusual title and the setting of the story. I was led to presume that it would be a boring fare, with undecipherable scenes and jargons employed to finish the product that it is. But in the end, I was left wanting for more…
Quest for the Nail Prints is a truly new concept of story-telling which is both engaging, edifying and enriching. Though I have shied away from reading secular novels with time-traveling as a theme, Don Furr’s unique style and narrative, coupled with the setting of the plot from known historical documents and Bible scriptures we are familiar with makes it an interesting and fascinating read.
The book is set in the final days of the life of Jesus Christ and centers around three twenty-first century travelers who are transported back in time to Jerusalem on the first Palm Sunday where they come face to face with the Nazarene Jesus – a young female doctor, a professor of religious studies and a pastor.
Quest for the Nail Prints is the story of how their lives intertwined and how they were changed when they encountered Jesus Christ.
Equally unique, if not more, was the hole shown on the cover. It was punched right through to the back cover. The book and its unique story is mostly likely to fill that gaping hole in your life.
Personally, Quest for the Nail Prints is a life-changing book which has made me to sit up and look at the Master as the bridge between my head and my heart.
If you’ve ever dreamt of spending time with Jesus during his earthly journey, this forceful and ultimately gut-wrenching thriller will, perhaps, be the nearest you’ll ever come to.
At first glance I was deeply intrigued, not because it was something which I was looking for, but for the unusual title and the setting of the story. I was led to presume that it would be a boring fare, with undecipherable scenes and jargons employed to finish the product that it is. But in the end, I was left wanting for more…
Quest for the Nail Prints is a truly new concept of story-telling which is both engaging, edifying and enriching. Though I have shied away from reading secular novels with time-traveling as a theme, Don Furr’s unique style and narrative, coupled with the setting of the plot from known historical documents and Bible scriptures we are familiar with makes it an interesting and fascinating read.
The book is set in the final days of the life of Jesus Christ and centers around three twenty-first century travelers who are transported back in time to Jerusalem on the first Palm Sunday where they come face to face with the Nazarene Jesus – a young female doctor, a professor of religious studies and a pastor.
Quest for the Nail Prints is the story of how their lives intertwined and how they were changed when they encountered Jesus Christ.
Equally unique, if not more, was the hole shown on the cover. It was punched right through to the back cover. The book and its unique story is mostly likely to fill that gaping hole in your life.
Personally, Quest for the Nail Prints is a life-changing book which has made me to sit up and look at the Master as the bridge between my head and my heart.
July 3, 2016
Three modern day characters who are all struggling with their faith journey to Israel. But after falling back into Jesus time' they spend the last week before His crucifixion with him in Jerusalem.
I just couldn't get into this story. I would start and then lose interest and have to return later. It took forever to make it through. The story seemed to meander along and I kept expecting something exciting to happen. I felt guilty because I knew it was a story I should be interested in due to the subject matter, but sadly the author didn't put those feelings into the story. It was a matter of the author telling the story instead of helping me "feel" the story.
I felt uncomfortable with the way the real story was manipulated and changed to fit the book.
I was also uncomfortable with the way Paul and Elizabeth (two of the modern day characters) acted. Paul was married and I would be upset if my husband acted this way with some other woman. The author said it was because they were experiencing something monumental together, and I realize that traumatic situations bring people together. But as a married women I would be hurt to find out that my husband acted this close to another woman when I wasn't around.
The hole in the middle of the book was explained at the beginning and seemed like a great idea until I started reading. It was really distracting since it was in the middle of every page.
I have to give this a low rating because of the multiple typos, lack of feeling in the story, and the interaction between the characters. I'm glad that this book was so inspiring and heartwarming for so many people, but it just didn't do it for me.
I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
I just couldn't get into this story. I would start and then lose interest and have to return later. It took forever to make it through. The story seemed to meander along and I kept expecting something exciting to happen. I felt guilty because I knew it was a story I should be interested in due to the subject matter, but sadly the author didn't put those feelings into the story. It was a matter of the author telling the story instead of helping me "feel" the story.
I felt uncomfortable with the way the real story was manipulated and changed to fit the book.
I was also uncomfortable with the way Paul and Elizabeth (two of the modern day characters) acted. Paul was married and I would be upset if my husband acted this way with some other woman. The author said it was because they were experiencing something monumental together, and I realize that traumatic situations bring people together. But as a married women I would be hurt to find out that my husband acted this close to another woman when I wasn't around.
The hole in the middle of the book was explained at the beginning and seemed like a great idea until I started reading. It was really distracting since it was in the middle of every page.
I have to give this a low rating because of the multiple typos, lack of feeling in the story, and the interaction between the characters. I'm glad that this book was so inspiring and heartwarming for so many people, but it just didn't do it for me.
I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
March 1, 2011
I'll be totally honest with you, when I first saw this book up for review I read the email and went on to other things. I didn't actually think about it again for almost two hours when I finally said " Well it does have an interesting idea to it (the whole time travel to be with Jesus)." Two Whole hours before I even bothered emailing?!?! The sad truth of the matter if it would have been a vampire or a highlander book I would have emailed within seconds.
On February 25th, 12 days after I received the e-copy I troubled myself to sit and read this book that I already had the mind set I wasn't going to like. Well on that same day I finished it. I couldn't believe what I had read, it was so riveting, so catching, just so mesmerizing. I knew the story from my childhood, but here were people from the future brought from the past to take part, how AMAZING!
I could actually relate to what was going on in the book, the way it flow so nicely from chapter to chapter. The characters we just so wonderful Paul and Elizabeth so welcoming, Professor Van Eaton so un-trusting, much like the world we live in.
All three of them playing parts in the events that took place as they crucified Jesus on the cross and no matter how hard they tried to prevent it they couldn't. It was heart breaking to know what was to happen, but amazing it must have been to be at the Last Supper.
This book IS SO WORTH THE TIME. Read it, enjoy it, give it as a gift (Easter is coming). All I can say is
Don Furr did a wonderful job. Don't pass this one up!
http://insidebjshead.blogspot.com/201...
On February 25th, 12 days after I received the e-copy I troubled myself to sit and read this book that I already had the mind set I wasn't going to like. Well on that same day I finished it. I couldn't believe what I had read, it was so riveting, so catching, just so mesmerizing. I knew the story from my childhood, but here were people from the future brought from the past to take part, how AMAZING!
I could actually relate to what was going on in the book, the way it flow so nicely from chapter to chapter. The characters we just so wonderful Paul and Elizabeth so welcoming, Professor Van Eaton so un-trusting, much like the world we live in.
All three of them playing parts in the events that took place as they crucified Jesus on the cross and no matter how hard they tried to prevent it they couldn't. It was heart breaking to know what was to happen, but amazing it must have been to be at the Last Supper.
This book IS SO WORTH THE TIME. Read it, enjoy it, give it as a gift (Easter is coming). All I can say is
Don Furr did a wonderful job. Don't pass this one up!
http://insidebjshead.blogspot.com/201...
March 26, 2013
From the moment you pick this book up you know there is something different about it. For starters there is a hole completely through it. One other thing that stands out is that it is Christian fiction but from the sci-fi genre. Yes there are other Christian sci-fi books, but in general they are few and far between.
I am not personally drawn to science fiction but my book clubs were asked to read and comment on this book so I obliged. I am grateful that I complied.
The story begins with three ordinary people from different walks of life. For different reasons they are each traveling to Israel. Through a series of events that are written in a manner that make them feel plausible, they are thrust back in time to the beginning of Holy Week. Make that the original Holy Week where Christ is making his way through the streets of Jerusalem.
The story continues through Holy Week and we get an up close and personal view through the eyes of our three travelers. I was amazed at how drawn in to the story I was. Don did a great job of staying accurate to scripture while adding in these new characters. The further you get into the book the more poignant that nail hole becomes. I’ve always thought it would be interesting to have been there. What would my reaction have been like? Would I have stayed to the bitter end or would I run and hide in fear? Expect to ponder these questions and more as you read this very intriguing tale.
Quest is the first book in the series and will be followed up by Peter’s Quest. I’m looking forward to reading it just so I can find out more about the three travelers and how all of this impacted them when they returned to their families.
I am not personally drawn to science fiction but my book clubs were asked to read and comment on this book so I obliged. I am grateful that I complied.
The story begins with three ordinary people from different walks of life. For different reasons they are each traveling to Israel. Through a series of events that are written in a manner that make them feel plausible, they are thrust back in time to the beginning of Holy Week. Make that the original Holy Week where Christ is making his way through the streets of Jerusalem.
The story continues through Holy Week and we get an up close and personal view through the eyes of our three travelers. I was amazed at how drawn in to the story I was. Don did a great job of staying accurate to scripture while adding in these new characters. The further you get into the book the more poignant that nail hole becomes. I’ve always thought it would be interesting to have been there. What would my reaction have been like? Would I have stayed to the bitter end or would I run and hide in fear? Expect to ponder these questions and more as you read this very intriguing tale.
Quest is the first book in the series and will be followed up by Peter’s Quest. I’m looking forward to reading it just so I can find out more about the three travelers and how all of this impacted them when they returned to their families.
December 6, 2013
'Quest for the Nail Prints' was a very-well written novel, mixing contemporary with historical Sci-Fi. The story mainly centers around three individuals' 10425757experiences - Elizabeth (a physician), Dr. Van Eaton (a Professor of religious history), and Paul (a pastor). Beginning as total strangers, their lives are "tossed together" through a miraculous turn of events. What began as a venture to Israel, through various reasons, sends them into a Sci-Fi escapade.
Somehow each knew they were bound by a secret nobody else would believe - if they even survived. Would any of them ever return to their "real" lives? What would become of the skeptical Dr. Van Eaton? ....Every story must have at least one obstacle. This story has several.
This is a fast paced tale with a few unexpected twists. Although not totally correct as far as biblical points go, it is close enough to add to the adventure enveloping the reader into the situations. It is at times, annoying, frustrating, tender, emotional, exciting, enraging, fearful, and sentimental. It never loses the reader's interest and leads into the next part of the series very cleverly.
This is especially written with Christians in mind. However, I feel many non-Christians would enjoy it as well. It did lack some energy - or something. It was a great book yet some slight thing was missing. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it but it seemed to die too quickly at the end leaving many questions in the readers mind. It is a great story to fit in with the Christmas Season.
I feel this book has earned a Four and a Half Stars rating.
I was sent this book for on honest book review, of which I have given.
Somehow each knew they were bound by a secret nobody else would believe - if they even survived. Would any of them ever return to their "real" lives? What would become of the skeptical Dr. Van Eaton? ....Every story must have at least one obstacle. This story has several.
This is a fast paced tale with a few unexpected twists. Although not totally correct as far as biblical points go, it is close enough to add to the adventure enveloping the reader into the situations. It is at times, annoying, frustrating, tender, emotional, exciting, enraging, fearful, and sentimental. It never loses the reader's interest and leads into the next part of the series very cleverly.
This is especially written with Christians in mind. However, I feel many non-Christians would enjoy it as well. It did lack some energy - or something. It was a great book yet some slight thing was missing. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it but it seemed to die too quickly at the end leaving many questions in the readers mind. It is a great story to fit in with the Christmas Season.
I feel this book has earned a Four and a Half Stars rating.
I was sent this book for on honest book review, of which I have given.
January 31, 2014
I often associate topics, such as time travel, with strange Science Fiction novels. However, in this case, author Don Furr writes a novel that takes you back in time to a place solid in history, yet being re-written (though not altering the course of history) involving the time travelers.
In "The Quest for the Nail Prints," the story begins in the modern day. The three main characters--Paul Ryann, a preacher of a large Baptist church; Eluzabeth Stewart, a doctor in flight trauma unit; and Professor Leonardo Van Eaton, who teaches religious and cultural history at Georgetown University--all have their personal /or business reasons for going to Jerusalem. They do not realize that they have been chosen together for this journey, the life changing event of traveling back in time to the days of Jesus.
As they live in the days from Palm Sunday to the Crucifixion, each learns the Truth of their faith, either starting new or strengthening what faith they thought was enough before they met Jesus face to face and walked with Him alongside His disciples. This novel captivated the Love that Jesus shared during His time on earth, even towards Judas and those we consider enemies otherwise. This is a thought provoking read; and as I finished, I decided that if a novel can bring to life the events of the Gospels, then I should get into the Scriptures. The Easter week should not just be celebrated once a year, but everyday as a reminder of God's promises fulfilled in Christ.
In "The Quest for the Nail Prints," the story begins in the modern day. The three main characters--Paul Ryann, a preacher of a large Baptist church; Eluzabeth Stewart, a doctor in flight trauma unit; and Professor Leonardo Van Eaton, who teaches religious and cultural history at Georgetown University--all have their personal /or business reasons for going to Jerusalem. They do not realize that they have been chosen together for this journey, the life changing event of traveling back in time to the days of Jesus.
As they live in the days from Palm Sunday to the Crucifixion, each learns the Truth of their faith, either starting new or strengthening what faith they thought was enough before they met Jesus face to face and walked with Him alongside His disciples. This novel captivated the Love that Jesus shared during His time on earth, even towards Judas and those we consider enemies otherwise. This is a thought provoking read; and as I finished, I decided that if a novel can bring to life the events of the Gospels, then I should get into the Scriptures. The Easter week should not just be celebrated once a year, but everyday as a reminder of God's promises fulfilled in Christ.
July 18, 2011
When I first received this book I was intrigued. The concept was unique and not what I would normally pick up. While I enjoy Christian novels, this wasn't something I'd seen in the genre before. I have to say it took me a bit to get into the story. We start out with Elizabeth, a young doctor who loses a young patient after a tragic accident. From there we meet a jaded professor of religious studies and a pastor who came late to his calling. These three characters set out on a very unexpected journey to find themselves.
Like any book there were portions that I enjoyed and those I did not. The story was extremely well written, the characters were very engaging. I had a hard time with a few aspects of the story, but for the majority of the time I quite liked it. Mr. Furr did an excellent job of creating a unique story from known historical documents and from the Bible scriptures we are familiar with.
While this isn't something I would normally pick up I did enjoy the story. This will NOT be for everyone, there are some aspects of the story that may not be for some. This will be for those who enjoy Christian fiction and historical fiction.
On a side note, the cover was very different - the hole shown on the front actually goes through the entire book.
Like any book there were portions that I enjoyed and those I did not. The story was extremely well written, the characters were very engaging. I had a hard time with a few aspects of the story, but for the majority of the time I quite liked it. Mr. Furr did an excellent job of creating a unique story from known historical documents and from the Bible scriptures we are familiar with.
While this isn't something I would normally pick up I did enjoy the story. This will NOT be for everyone, there are some aspects of the story that may not be for some. This will be for those who enjoy Christian fiction and historical fiction.
On a side note, the cover was very different - the hole shown on the front actually goes through the entire book.
March 10, 2011
Never have I read a story that reached inside and squeezed my very soul. Through this book the reader travels back in time with the three main characters. They travel back to a time when Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem to fulfill the role his heavenly father set before him. One thing that touched me so much was the human side to Jesus. We know him as God’s son and therefore rarely think of him as having the same quirks and emotions that we as humans have. The fact that the author has him roll his eyes or look disdainfully at someone and their remark made him seem so much closer. I cried through so much of this book. The emotion it brings from deep within your soul is makes our walk with Christ that much more important. Through the eyes of Paul, Elizabeth and the Professor we see within ourselves our own shortcomings. We see through their eyes God’s love for them and for us. This is a book you will want to read over and over again. It is also a book you will want to recommend to everyone around you. I don’t think five stars is enough to tell you how much I have enjoyed and feel blessed to have read this book. May God continue to use this book to his glory.
June 19, 2012
There is something so fascinating and surreal about time travel. Many have tried to achieve the ability to travel back into history. In Quest for the Nail Prints, Don Furr does just that. The reader is captivated in this page turner as the three characters in this novel; Dr. Elizabeth Stewart, Reverand Paul Ryann, and Professor Leonardo Van Eaton; for various reasons, travel to Jerusalem. After witnessing a murder, the three must run for their lives. Terrified, they find an unlocked door which they enter in, seeking refuge. When the floor collapses they fall back in time, back to the days of Jesus. Two are drawn to the crowd surrounding Jesus and join them, walking with Him and His disciples the days prior to His arrest, torture and crucifixion. One disappears, on a quest of his own.
Quest For the Nail Prints is artfully written, with each character carefully developed and portrayed. This is a story of betrayal, denial and pure love. It doesn't matter your religion, this work of fiction will draw you in and keep you captivated. I enjoyed every minute of it!
Quest For the Nail Prints is artfully written, with each character carefully developed and portrayed. This is a story of betrayal, denial and pure love. It doesn't matter your religion, this work of fiction will draw you in and keep you captivated. I enjoyed every minute of it!
February 23, 2011
What do a smelly, wise, obese wisecracking religious studies professor, a twin emergency room physician and a pastor who got his call later in life all have in common? The same thing anyone of us does: Jesus. Quest for the Nail Prints is the story of how these three people come together for a once in the lifetime opportunity, fueled by the faith of ancestors, and spend time with Jesus and the disciples in his last days upon the earth. Their reactions are so human and honest that you can't help but shed tears of triumph in their joy as well as disdain for the traitor Judas. Imagine how you would react if you met Judas Iscariot prior to the crucifixion...can't well read the book then you'll know.
As someone who is indeed knowledgeable of the scriptures and the stories of the New Testament I can confidently say that Furr stayed true to the gospel and used his creative license in a tastefully eloquent and respectful manner. I give this book my full support and encourage you all to click the links highlighted and purchase it immediately.
As someone who is indeed knowledgeable of the scriptures and the stories of the New Testament I can confidently say that Furr stayed true to the gospel and used his creative license in a tastefully eloquent and respectful manner. I give this book my full support and encourage you all to click the links highlighted and purchase it immediately.
February 5, 2013
I loved this book! Written by fellow Tennessean, it kept me riveted to the pages. Can you imagine walking with Jesus during his last days or actually attending the Last Supper? This one has it all! Very impressive and I cannot wait until his next book is released. I will be one of the first in line to purchase it.
February 16, 2013
Stretched the word plausable until it snapped in my way of thinking. The whole concept of three random souls transporting back to Jesus' time to hide Dead Sea scrolls, threaten Judas Iscariot and find out they are the only decendants of the three wise men was a mile over the top for me. In like to stretch my imagination, but also like to stay in the relm of believable.
October 8, 2012
I would give Don Furr's "Quest for the Nail Prints" ten stars, if I could! What an wonderful intertwine of values, faith, imagination, reverence, levity, seriousness, fiction and adventure!
An outright inspiring book, a success as a novel and as a testament of faith.
An outright inspiring book, a success as a novel and as a testament of faith.
April 27, 2012
This was such a great read! I loved the mix of characters that ended up together in the midst of a story happening around them, yet greatly affected their faith. Awesome book and I can't wait for the sequel.
February 20, 2013
I enjoyed reading this book. This book brought out so many emotions. I even dreamt of walking along side Jesus as one of his disciples. I do know that this book is not for everyone. You have to be willing to be open to Mr. Furr's interpretation.
May 14, 2014
Guest for the nail prints
the is one of the best books I've read in a long time. it makes you think and takes you to the foot of the cross in a way that helps you identify with the characters.
the is one of the best books I've read in a long time. it makes you think and takes you to the foot of the cross in a way that helps you identify with the characters.
October 14, 2011
Very well written - I could actually easily see this made into a movie. Very intense, emotional and heart-wrenching.
October 8, 2013
The Book starts with the Preacher having a conversation with a DEAD person!?!?!? UHUH, Nope!! Not for me!
March 13, 2015
Wow! I thought this was a four star book until the last part of the book. The ending sealed it for me! Well Done!
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