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Chronicles of the Nephilim #2
Enoch Primordial
The Watchers: Sons of Elohim fallen to earth enslaving mankind with secret plans of conquest.
The Nephilim: The genetic offspring of the Watchers and human women. They are huge, organized, violent, and very hungry.
Enoch: A wise sage and holy man who is called by God to pronounce judgment on the fallen angels and their giant progeny, the Nephilim.
Methuselah: Son of Enoch. He has a passionate lust for life and earthy experience that puts him at odds with his otherworldly father.
Edna: Young wife of Methuselah. Bred in the palace to be married to a god, she is rescued by Methuselah and taught how to read, write, and fight without losing her feminine wiles.
Uriel: The guardian angel of the line of the Chosen Seed. He is smaller than the other archangels, so he makes up for it with his sharp intelligence, acerbic wit, and master swordplay.
Ohyah: A Nephilim who receives dreams from God and wants to repent and join Enoch’s band to redeem himself.
Lamech: Son of Methuselah. The line of the Chosen Seed, who discovers that the Cursed One is hunting him for revenge against God.
“Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him.” That’s all the primeval history of Genesis tells us about this enigmatic holy man of the primordial generation. The ancient Book of Enoch tells us that he pronounced judgment on the fallen Watchers and their giant progeny, the Nephilim of Genesis chapter 6. But what if that holy calling meant that Enoch was a giant killer?
This second novel in the saga Chronicles of the Nephilim is a prequel to Noah Primeval that tells the story of the Fall of the Watchers from heaven and the rise of the Nephilim generations before the Flood. Follow the epic journey of Enoch the giant killer with his small band of family warriors who seek outlaw giants for bounty, but stumble upon a conspiracy of the Watchers that is so evil, it will change the universe forever if God does not stop them. You’ll meet some of the beloved characters from Noah Primeval when they were much younger, like Methuselah and Uriel, as well as the origin stories of the lead Watchers, Semjaza and Azazel who became the gods Anu and Inanna.
An appendix provides some of the fascinating Biblical and ancient Near Eastern research behind the mythopoeia in the novel.
Chronicles of the Nephilim is written in the mythic genre of The Lord of the Rings and Narnia, blending fantasy and mythopoeia with history to retell the Biblical narrative with a fresh perspective, while staying true to the original spirit of the story.
The Nephilim: The genetic offspring of the Watchers and human women. They are huge, organized, violent, and very hungry.
Enoch: A wise sage and holy man who is called by God to pronounce judgment on the fallen angels and their giant progeny, the Nephilim.
Methuselah: Son of Enoch. He has a passionate lust for life and earthy experience that puts him at odds with his otherworldly father.
Edna: Young wife of Methuselah. Bred in the palace to be married to a god, she is rescued by Methuselah and taught how to read, write, and fight without losing her feminine wiles.
Uriel: The guardian angel of the line of the Chosen Seed. He is smaller than the other archangels, so he makes up for it with his sharp intelligence, acerbic wit, and master swordplay.
Ohyah: A Nephilim who receives dreams from God and wants to repent and join Enoch’s band to redeem himself.
Lamech: Son of Methuselah. The line of the Chosen Seed, who discovers that the Cursed One is hunting him for revenge against God.
“Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him.” That’s all the primeval history of Genesis tells us about this enigmatic holy man of the primordial generation. The ancient Book of Enoch tells us that he pronounced judgment on the fallen Watchers and their giant progeny, the Nephilim of Genesis chapter 6. But what if that holy calling meant that Enoch was a giant killer?
This second novel in the saga Chronicles of the Nephilim is a prequel to Noah Primeval that tells the story of the Fall of the Watchers from heaven and the rise of the Nephilim generations before the Flood. Follow the epic journey of Enoch the giant killer with his small band of family warriors who seek outlaw giants for bounty, but stumble upon a conspiracy of the Watchers that is so evil, it will change the universe forever if God does not stop them. You’ll meet some of the beloved characters from Noah Primeval when they were much younger, like Methuselah and Uriel, as well as the origin stories of the lead Watchers, Semjaza and Azazel who became the gods Anu and Inanna.
An appendix provides some of the fascinating Biblical and ancient Near Eastern research behind the mythopoeia in the novel.
Chronicles of the Nephilim is written in the mythic genre of The Lord of the Rings and Narnia, blending fantasy and mythopoeia with history to retell the Biblical narrative with a fresh perspective, while staying true to the original spirit of the story.
389 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
1462 people are currently reading
838 people want to read
About the author
Brian Godawa
107 books385 followersBrian Godawa has been a professional filmmaker, writer, and designer for over 20 years. His creative versatility was born of a passion for both intellect and imagination, both left-brain and right-brain. The result: Brian is an artisan of word, image, and story that engages heart, mind, and soul. Just think, "Renaissance Man."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
May 26, 2023
Again, excellent world building and research but I just couldn't care about the characters. The modern way of speaking also pulled me out of the narrative.
March 26, 2024
Did Not Finish. Sorry, I just can't😅
I would say this is the camel that broke the straw's back when it comes to me and reading Christian fiction/fantasy. My family got it for me for Christmas a while back, and while I truly appreciated the sentiment, I think this one will stay unread in the depths of my closet until the end of time.
The story setting takes place before Noah's Flood, in a world overrun with fallen ages masquerading as gods and their giant Nephilim children terrorizing and straight up eating all the humans. From what I read, it follows the Biblical figure Enoch and his family as they slay giants and try to stay alive in this unflooded and extremely deadly world.
Cool worldbuilding/concept, very poor execution.
It follows so many stereotypes and cliches I've picked up on in the genre that it's honestly just disappointing. Like other books in the Christian Fiction/Fantasy genre, instead of referring to God as God, everyone instead calls him "Elohim." Because once again, every single book must have some ✨special✨ name for God. And while yes, Elohim is an actual name for Him, I still think it falls into the same cliche.
Another one was Enoch and his family's blind acceptance of a completely new religion, despite previously worshipping a fallen angel that PHYSICALLY manifested to him and others in broad daylight. A good angel shows up (I think it was Michael or Gabriel), telling him to follow the One True God, and suddenly Enoch and his son accept Elohim despite the very real possibility of being torn to shreds by giants and disregard their entire old way of life in like... thirty minutes? Really??
There was also the uncomfortable romance between Enoch's son and his girlfriend. I don't know what it is about Christian Fiction/Fantasy and shoving in highly inaccurate portrayals of lovey-dovey stuff. But it was so bad, and I hated it so much. 🤪
Other than that there were the weird personalities given to the good angels. I found it very off-putting and not at all "divine" like I would expect.
I say all this not because I am anti-Christian (on the contrary, I would say I am a fairly devout Pentecostal, or at least I try to be😂). Nor do I want to squash the authors dreams and drag his writing to the mud with my review. Being a writer myself, I understand how much an author's work/brainchild can mean to them, so I genuinely mean no harm to Brian or his writing.
With that being said... I also believe in being honest. And personally, I don't recommend this one. 1 out of 5 stars.
And if you ARE really interested in Christian literature: GO👏 READ👏 THE👏 BIBLE👏
I would say this is the camel that broke the straw's back when it comes to me and reading Christian fiction/fantasy. My family got it for me for Christmas a while back, and while I truly appreciated the sentiment, I think this one will stay unread in the depths of my closet until the end of time.
The story setting takes place before Noah's Flood, in a world overrun with fallen ages masquerading as gods and their giant Nephilim children terrorizing and straight up eating all the humans. From what I read, it follows the Biblical figure Enoch and his family as they slay giants and try to stay alive in this unflooded and extremely deadly world.
Cool worldbuilding/concept, very poor execution.
It follows so many stereotypes and cliches I've picked up on in the genre that it's honestly just disappointing. Like other books in the Christian Fiction/Fantasy genre, instead of referring to God as God, everyone instead calls him "Elohim." Because once again, every single book must have some ✨special✨ name for God. And while yes, Elohim is an actual name for Him, I still think it falls into the same cliche.
Another one was Enoch and his family's blind acceptance of a completely new religion, despite previously worshipping a fallen angel that PHYSICALLY manifested to him and others in broad daylight. A good angel shows up (I think it was Michael or Gabriel), telling him to follow the One True God, and suddenly Enoch and his son accept Elohim despite the very real possibility of being torn to shreds by giants and disregard their entire old way of life in like... thirty minutes? Really??
There was also the uncomfortable romance between Enoch's son and his girlfriend. I don't know what it is about Christian Fiction/Fantasy and shoving in highly inaccurate portrayals of lovey-dovey stuff. But it was so bad, and I hated it so much. 🤪
Other than that there were the weird personalities given to the good angels. I found it very off-putting and not at all "divine" like I would expect.
I say all this not because I am anti-Christian (on the contrary, I would say I am a fairly devout Pentecostal, or at least I try to be😂). Nor do I want to squash the authors dreams and drag his writing to the mud with my review. Being a writer myself, I understand how much an author's work/brainchild can mean to them, so I genuinely mean no harm to Brian or his writing.
With that being said... I also believe in being honest. And personally, I don't recommend this one. 1 out of 5 stars.
And if you ARE really interested in Christian literature: GO👏 READ👏 THE👏 BIBLE👏
February 10, 2014
I think Brian Godawa has taken on a worthwhile project of writing fiction based on the Bible which does not contradict or distort the redemptive themes of the Bible, which so often disappoints many of us. Extra-biblical literature has often done this ever sense the Bible has been on the scene. In informative appendices, Godawa helps us navigate this literary genre of ancient biblical fiction and legend and shows us from which of these stories he has drawn in order to fill out his own fictitious portrayals of the biblical people, places and things.
In keeping with his Evangelical convictions, and his Schaefferian approach to Christian apologetics and the Christian worldview, he has written these into his fantasy narrative in ways which many may reject as at times appearing to be nothing but sheer politically conservative, or Republican partisan rhetoric. Finding allusions to Bill Clinton's appeal to the "definition of is," and his famous remark "I feel your pain," as well as the 99% rhetoric of the more recent Occupy Wall Street movement put into the mouths of antagonists will be the last straw for some who are unfamiliar with Godawa's apologetics and worldview based on those of the Reformed popular apologist Francis Schaeffer. But being both a Republican and politically conservative, I found these allusions amusing and enjoyed reading a novel which defies the mold of political and philosophical progressivism which reigns in the entertainment industry in which Godawa makes part of his living as the screenwriter of, most notably, To End All Wars, starring Keifer Sutherland.
Godawa's ambitious project in speculative Biblical fantasy is also inspired by the classic writings of both J.R.R. Tolkein and C.S. Lewis. In the spirit of Tolkein, he has created an elaborate fantasy world by literalizing the "mytho-poetic" literary and legendary references of the Bible and ancient extrabiblical pseudapigraphy (falsely attributed); in that of Lewis, his motivation is to baptize the imagination of his readers to help them better get the redemptive themes of the Bible so that when they come to the Bible itself, they will find what they read more familiar.
This review will be completed at a later date at www.capthk.com. Subcribe to my RSS feed or sign up for an email update so you don't miss it.
In keeping with his Evangelical convictions, and his Schaefferian approach to Christian apologetics and the Christian worldview, he has written these into his fantasy narrative in ways which many may reject as at times appearing to be nothing but sheer politically conservative, or Republican partisan rhetoric. Finding allusions to Bill Clinton's appeal to the "definition of is," and his famous remark "I feel your pain," as well as the 99% rhetoric of the more recent Occupy Wall Street movement put into the mouths of antagonists will be the last straw for some who are unfamiliar with Godawa's apologetics and worldview based on those of the Reformed popular apologist Francis Schaeffer. But being both a Republican and politically conservative, I found these allusions amusing and enjoyed reading a novel which defies the mold of political and philosophical progressivism which reigns in the entertainment industry in which Godawa makes part of his living as the screenwriter of, most notably, To End All Wars, starring Keifer Sutherland.
Godawa's ambitious project in speculative Biblical fantasy is also inspired by the classic writings of both J.R.R. Tolkein and C.S. Lewis. In the spirit of Tolkein, he has created an elaborate fantasy world by literalizing the "mytho-poetic" literary and legendary references of the Bible and ancient extrabiblical pseudapigraphy (falsely attributed); in that of Lewis, his motivation is to baptize the imagination of his readers to help them better get the redemptive themes of the Bible so that when they come to the Bible itself, they will find what they read more familiar.
This review will be completed at a later date at www.capthk.com. Subcribe to my RSS feed or sign up for an email update so you don't miss it.
August 6, 2013
Definitely should have been Book #1 in the series.
February 3, 2019
The second book in the Nephilim Chronicles is a sort of prequel. Here are my thoughts, both what is good about the book and what needs to be developed.
The Good
His scope and vision is awe-inspiring. He has laid the foundation for a biblical epic. Granted, I don't think it will get there, but still. It's a start.
He does a decent job in character development. Not quite as sharp and profound as how he treated Noah in the previous novel, but still decent and better than most.
The novel moves at a sharp pace, and he does a good job of building suspense.
Needs to be developed
The dialogue between Methuselah and Edna grated somewhat. The rest of the dialogue was okay.
The novel also risked "preaching" a bit. I have as militant a hatred of socialism and big, yet there were passages that seemed plucked from Milton Friedman.
The series is still worth reading, aside from these points.
December 30, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. Methuselah was a hilarious character & I laughed out loud through out this book. I appreciated the fantasy thrown in with this story too, though who's to say in those ancient times when the fallen angels actually walked among humans as gods what kind of crazy creatures & things were commonplace then that would be pure fantasy today? My only question is why is this the second book in the series when Enoch was Noah's great-great-grandfather? I read this book first BC of that reason.
December 3, 2014
Intending to read the whole series, I started with this one in order to follow it chronologically. Maybe that was a mistake.
This was a good idea and a great setting for a fantasy tale. Also, the author had to have done some research in Enoch, the Bible, possibly Jasher and some other sources.
I think I would have enjoyed a summary of his research more than this novel. But that's probably not the case for most readers. What grates on me are major selling points for others. In particular the "cute" romance elements didn't sit well with me at all. And I get a little more irritated every time I run into the obligatory amazon superninja character. So in the author's defense, my patience had been sorely taxed before I ever heard of him, so it only takes a straw or two to break my camel's back.
My camel's name is Suspension of Disbelief.
The author did build a quest tale, of sorts, around the historic sketch left us via Genesis and Enoch 1, with some plot twists and such. I can't say I liked any of the characters enough to become absorbed, or even smooth over the parts that ruffled my feathers. I set the book down for a couple months before forcing myself to finish it. Having heard raves about the Noah book, I'm almost tempted to give him another chance, but it's certainly not a priority.
This was a good idea and a great setting for a fantasy tale. Also, the author had to have done some research in Enoch, the Bible, possibly Jasher and some other sources.
I think I would have enjoyed a summary of his research more than this novel. But that's probably not the case for most readers. What grates on me are major selling points for others. In particular the "cute" romance elements didn't sit well with me at all. And I get a little more irritated every time I run into the obligatory amazon superninja character. So in the author's defense, my patience had been sorely taxed before I ever heard of him, so it only takes a straw or two to break my camel's back.
My camel's name is Suspension of Disbelief.
The author did build a quest tale, of sorts, around the historic sketch left us via Genesis and Enoch 1, with some plot twists and such. I can't say I liked any of the characters enough to become absorbed, or even smooth over the parts that ruffled my feathers. I set the book down for a couple months before forcing myself to finish it. Having heard raves about the Noah book, I'm almost tempted to give him another chance, but it's certainly not a priority.
August 19, 2017
"Enoch Primordial" by Brian Godawa is speculative take on the extra-biblical Jewish Midrash, the Book of Enoch. Godawa skillfully weaves together different elements of the Old and New Testament, the Book of Enoch and Mesopotamian mythologies and gives it a fantasy/action flavour. I particularly loved the brief but unusual portrayal of one well-known biblical character (no spoilers). But this book is a mixed bag. My main beef is that some of it is really rough and extremely colloquial or just painfully cheesy. Contrast this with some great passages of storytelling, and I'm honestly confused. One thing that distracted me greatly is the use of post-Flood settings in a pre-Flood world eg. post-Flood cities, countries, cultures etc. But Noah's Flood was global. I think this non-biblical perspective of the Flood being local really hurts this prequel. Finally, as with "Noah Primeval" this book is dark, disturbing and violent, but not grimdark.
Included in the last 60 pages or so, is a detailed set appendix entitled: Retelling Bible Stories and the Mythic Imagination in Enoch Primordial. In short, "Enoch Primordial" features some quality storytelling and serious scholarship, but it has sizeable flaws.
7/10
Included in the last 60 pages or so, is a detailed set appendix entitled: Retelling Bible Stories and the Mythic Imagination in Enoch Primordial. In short, "Enoch Primordial" features some quality storytelling and serious scholarship, but it has sizeable flaws.
7/10
August 12, 2014
I am truly debating if this would have been better first over Noah or not. Though I did feel it explained a few things from Noah primeval.
I did find this was a page turner that was also difficult to put down. This, of course, explains why it only took a few days to read. I was completely held through this book and as a christian also made them more real to me as well.
I have already started the third on in the series and it is holding me just as his others. I will certainly be adding Brian Godawa as another author I enjoy reading.
I did find this was a page turner that was also difficult to put down. This, of course, explains why it only took a few days to read. I was completely held through this book and as a christian also made them more real to me as well.
I have already started the third on in the series and it is holding me just as his others. I will certainly be adding Brian Godawa as another author I enjoy reading.
October 21, 2025
Amazing series! Love how Brian creates a sci-fi world where God’s chosen are warriors! Giant killers! I could NOT put this series down!
August 26, 2024
I absolutely love this series! Between the action and what I have learned through Brian Godawa's research and the inspiration gained at the end of the book! I cannot wait to start the next one!
October 28, 2015
A thoroughly engaging, thoroughly Christian fantasy based in the Biblical narrative and what may be guessed from ancient records. There's also a healthy dose of not-so-subtle reference to modern ideals with appropriate attribution to their true source. The author appears to be conservative as well as Christian. If you are comfortable with the level of conjecture necessary to create a story from the little we have in the Bible and like the genre, you'll like this.
Though the book is the second in the series, the events described are actually prior to those in the first book. If you like things in order, start here and then read Noah.
Though the book is the second in the series, the events described are actually prior to those in the first book. If you like things in order, start here and then read Noah.
March 24, 2016
Fantastic read
Godawa does it again with the follow up to Noah Primeval. It was a great read. This time around - unlike with Noah - I took the time to read through the appendices, and I'm really glad that I did. I can truly appreciate the background information he provides, including plenty of scripture as well as extra biblical narrative, to build a case for the scriptural basis and theological "accuracies" of the way he has portrayed these biblical characters and stories.
A lot of heavy research and knowledge has gone into these novels, and I can't wait to pick up the next one and again be blown away by the stories you DIDN'T hear in Sunday School!
Godawa does it again with the follow up to Noah Primeval. It was a great read. This time around - unlike with Noah - I took the time to read through the appendices, and I'm really glad that I did. I can truly appreciate the background information he provides, including plenty of scripture as well as extra biblical narrative, to build a case for the scriptural basis and theological "accuracies" of the way he has portrayed these biblical characters and stories.
A lot of heavy research and knowledge has gone into these novels, and I can't wait to pick up the next one and again be blown away by the stories you DIDN'T hear in Sunday School!
June 27, 2014
Absolutely loved
I loved this book.5 stars no doubt about it.I loved how much it made me think.ponder.really ponder. It's great in so many ways.It's an action packed story.A bit of science fiction/fantasy, a bit of History, A bit of a love story.not just between husband and wife but a relationship with God.I will be getting more Brian Godawa's books.I am hooked.
I loved this book.5 stars no doubt about it.I loved how much it made me think.ponder.really ponder. It's great in so many ways.It's an action packed story.A bit of science fiction/fantasy, a bit of History, A bit of a love story.not just between husband and wife but a relationship with God.I will be getting more Brian Godawa's books.I am hooked.
November 10, 2012
This book is the 2nd book by Brian Godawa I have read, and I don't recommend it to anyone. In addition to it's violence, it obviously has a political agenda. Brian seems to have the conviction that capitalism is in God's plan. Sorry I tried to read this book.
August 2, 2015
Please see:" When Giants were upon the earth"(also by the author) , in connection with this series! I find this prequel rather interesting...
The research is compelling. this is a fun read ; just a little too much on the romance element. (stick with the story).
The research is compelling. this is a fun read ; just a little too much on the romance element. (stick with the story).
September 2, 2016
It took me the entire half of this book to get into it, but once I did I didn't want to put it down and read past what was scheduled for school. ;D Awesome book! Can't wait to ramble about it to my Ma.
October 12, 2017
This was an interesting idea, a fantasy adaptation of pre-biblical legends, but it turned out to be a vehicle to promote a Conservative Christian point of view complete with commentary on unions and "takers" and traditional marriage (even though polygamy was widespread in biblical times).
November 12, 2017
Great story
Lots of action an suspense. I like how the writer weaves the facts of the bible with fiction, trying not to cross the boundary of too much fantasy. I did have an issue with the ridiculous pet names for each other. They were ridiculous and not needed.
Lots of action an suspense. I like how the writer weaves the facts of the bible with fiction, trying not to cross the boundary of too much fantasy. I did have an issue with the ridiculous pet names for each other. They were ridiculous and not needed.
June 12, 2013
Should be read before first book in series. Good book though but reading first book kinda is a spoiler for the rest.
February 22, 2013
My husband recommended this book because he knows I enjoy biblical stories. This is a great read full of action and adventure. Not what you think.
August 24, 2013
I absolutely love this book series. It is fantastic! I'll be downloading the next book in the series tomorrow, Gilgamesh Immortal, and jumping right into it!
October 23, 2015
I enjoyed the book. it is an interesting story based in the biblical timeline. I'm not sure how I feel about the direction that was taken but I did enjoy the book.
May 6, 2016
I loved the story. I was captured by the actions of war and intrigued by the relationships of Enoch, Lamech, and Methuselah. I enjoyed the quick and occasional references to Noah Primeval.
February 27, 2020
Enoch Primordial is the second installment in Brian Godawa's "Chronicles of the Nephilim" novel series. However, the events of this book are chronologically prior to the events of the first book "Noah Primeval". Therefore, I would recommend that you read this book before Noah Primeval if you would like to keep the story strictly chronological. It even says that it is a prequel on the cover of the book.
As I said in my review of Noah Primeval, this novel series is about The Descent of the Watchers on Mount Hermon, their plan to interbreed with human women in order to produce Angel / human giant hybrid offspring known as Nephilim. At first, the Watchers did this purely out of lust. But after having revealed that God had a plan to destroy the Watchers and Satan who was the serpent who tempted Adam and Eve to sin in the Garden of Eden, they decided to interbreed more with human women in order to poison the lineage of the "chosen seed". That chosen seed, is Jesus the Christ, who traces his lineage back to Noah, Lamech, Methuselah, and Enoch.
Both this book and Noah primeval will be really weird to a lot of evangelicals who are not familiar with Divine Council Theology and the Quasi Divine view of the Nephilim. However, having followed Michael Heiser's work for a couple of years I am very familiar with the theology in the novel. However for those who aren't, in every single installment of The Chronicles of the Nephilim series oh, godawa has appendices that explains and defends where he is getting his ideas from. He's not just Conjuring them up out of his head for the most part. Of course, since the Primeval history of Genesis (I.e the three novels before Abraham Allegiant) is especially brief and sparse in detail, he has to take a lot of poetic license was what was said and what was done. But the basic ideas and storyline is founded on solid Biblical exegesis and a knowledge of ancient near Eastern thinking and second temple Judaism.
One of the things I liked about Enoch primordial was the debate between Enoch and Satan in the Heavenly Court. Satan was trying to accuse God of all kinds of different injustices, and the arguments that he trotted forth or arguments that I have had to contend with out of the mouths of atheist Time After Time After Time In My Time as a Christian apologist. Enoch skillfully refuted all of Satan's accusations of God being a tyrant, a misogynist, an animal abuser, Etc. Although, I didn't agree with all of the answers that the novel Enoch gave because I don't agree with the theology. For example, I do not take the inherited guilt view of Romans 5 so if I were in Enochs position I would have denied that God does in fact hold all of humanity accountable for what Adam and Eve did. Nevertheless, the novel Enoch did give very good answers to Satan's problem of evil and other objections. I especially like the fact that Enoch and the son of man pointed out that if it weren't for God, there would not even be a moral standard by which to judge God as immoral! Without God, there is no objective morality. Without God, all things are permitted. As the son of man said in his summary judgment at the end, in order to accuse God of Injustice, Satan had to be like a child who sits in his father's lap in order to slap his face.
This novel series, and this book in particular, really held my attention. It is so full of action-packed battles between the "Giant Killers" (I.e Enoch, Methuselah, Edna, Betonosh) and the giant Nephilim, it is full of romance and heartfelt interactions between the characters, and an unexpected twist with Ohoya the nephilim, that I just could not put the book down. I finished the novel in 2 days because I just could not let it go. This book kind of feels like Lord of the Rings meets The Bible. If you're into either of those kinds of novels and you also want Divine Council theology in an engaging narrative form, I recommend that you read this. I have said it before and I will say it again. Brian Godawa is the C.S Lewis of our time.
As I said in my review of Noah Primeval, this novel series is about The Descent of the Watchers on Mount Hermon, their plan to interbreed with human women in order to produce Angel / human giant hybrid offspring known as Nephilim. At first, the Watchers did this purely out of lust. But after having revealed that God had a plan to destroy the Watchers and Satan who was the serpent who tempted Adam and Eve to sin in the Garden of Eden, they decided to interbreed more with human women in order to poison the lineage of the "chosen seed". That chosen seed, is Jesus the Christ, who traces his lineage back to Noah, Lamech, Methuselah, and Enoch.
Both this book and Noah primeval will be really weird to a lot of evangelicals who are not familiar with Divine Council Theology and the Quasi Divine view of the Nephilim. However, having followed Michael Heiser's work for a couple of years I am very familiar with the theology in the novel. However for those who aren't, in every single installment of The Chronicles of the Nephilim series oh, godawa has appendices that explains and defends where he is getting his ideas from. He's not just Conjuring them up out of his head for the most part. Of course, since the Primeval history of Genesis (I.e the three novels before Abraham Allegiant) is especially brief and sparse in detail, he has to take a lot of poetic license was what was said and what was done. But the basic ideas and storyline is founded on solid Biblical exegesis and a knowledge of ancient near Eastern thinking and second temple Judaism.
One of the things I liked about Enoch primordial was the debate between Enoch and Satan in the Heavenly Court. Satan was trying to accuse God of all kinds of different injustices, and the arguments that he trotted forth or arguments that I have had to contend with out of the mouths of atheist Time After Time After Time In My Time as a Christian apologist. Enoch skillfully refuted all of Satan's accusations of God being a tyrant, a misogynist, an animal abuser, Etc. Although, I didn't agree with all of the answers that the novel Enoch gave because I don't agree with the theology. For example, I do not take the inherited guilt view of Romans 5 so if I were in Enochs position I would have denied that God does in fact hold all of humanity accountable for what Adam and Eve did. Nevertheless, the novel Enoch did give very good answers to Satan's problem of evil and other objections. I especially like the fact that Enoch and the son of man pointed out that if it weren't for God, there would not even be a moral standard by which to judge God as immoral! Without God, there is no objective morality. Without God, all things are permitted. As the son of man said in his summary judgment at the end, in order to accuse God of Injustice, Satan had to be like a child who sits in his father's lap in order to slap his face.
This novel series, and this book in particular, really held my attention. It is so full of action-packed battles between the "Giant Killers" (I.e Enoch, Methuselah, Edna, Betonosh) and the giant Nephilim, it is full of romance and heartfelt interactions between the characters, and an unexpected twist with Ohoya the nephilim, that I just could not put the book down. I finished the novel in 2 days because I just could not let it go. This book kind of feels like Lord of the Rings meets The Bible. If you're into either of those kinds of novels and you also want Divine Council theology in an engaging narrative form, I recommend that you read this. I have said it before and I will say it again. Brian Godawa is the C.S Lewis of our time.
September 10, 2025
Review of Enoch Primordial by Brian Godawa
Enoch (or Henok) is a biblical figure mentioned in Genesis, the seventh patriarch from Adam in the genealogical line. He is remarkable because the text says that he “walked with God, and then was no more, because God took him” (Genesis 5:24). Unlike the other patriarchs, his life does not end in death but in a mysterious divine taking. This made him a central figure in Jewish and Christian tradition—both as a prophet and as a symbol of righteousness and hidden knowledge.
The novel Enoch Primordial draws inspiration not only from Genesis but also from the Book of Enoch (1 Enoch), an ancient Jewish apocalyptic text dating from around the 3rd century BC. This non-canonical book greatly expands the few biblical verses on Enoch into a sweeping mythological vision: the fall of the Watchers (fallen angels), their union with human women, the birth of giants (Nephilim), and Enoch’s heavenly journeys filled with visions of God’s judgment. The Book of Enoch has fascinated theologians, mystics, and even modern “ancient aliens” theorists who interpret its descriptions as evidence of otherworldly beings visiting earth.
Godawa’s novel stays true to these biblical and apocryphal themes while weaving them into a cinematic narrative of epic fantasy. Enoch is portrayed as prophet, warrior, and visionary in a corrupted world shaped by fallen angels and their giant offspring. The story brings to life ancient imagery with fictional dialogues, action, and dramatic conflicts, giving readers both the mythic grandeur of the Old Testament and the pace of modern adventure.
It should be noted that some characters—especially the archangels (here we find fourth Archangel Uriel who wasn't mentioned in official Bible)—speak in a very modern idiom. For readers accustomed to the solemn, traditional language of heavenly beings in scripture, this may feel awkward or out of place. Yet, as a work of fiction, this choice reflects Godawa’s aim to bridge the ancient world with contemporary readers, making the story more accessible.
One of the strengths of the book is its extensive appendix at the end. Here, the author provides thorough explanations of how parts of 1 Enoch and other apocryphal writings influenced or were echoed in the New Testament. This section is a treasure for readers interested in biblical studies, as it shows that early Christian authors were indeed familiar with these texts, even if they never became part of the official canon.
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My assessment of Enoch Primordial according to 7 fiction criteria:
1. Too long and strenuous action – exciting and/or concise – 4
2. Boring – entertaining – 4
3. Difficult to read (especially for non-native English speakers) – easy to read – 4
4. Predictable (common) – unusual and good story – 4 (since I was unfamiliar with some of these stories)
5. Shallow story – deeper meaning – 5
6. Messy and unfinished – clear and well-rounded – 4
7. Dry and uninspired style – smooth, lively, humorous – 5 (The archangels, in particular, often came across as almost humorous in their dialogues, which at times felt more like witty banter than the solemn authority one might expect from heavenly beings)
Total: 4,28 stars
Enoch (or Henok) is a biblical figure mentioned in Genesis, the seventh patriarch from Adam in the genealogical line. He is remarkable because the text says that he “walked with God, and then was no more, because God took him” (Genesis 5:24). Unlike the other patriarchs, his life does not end in death but in a mysterious divine taking. This made him a central figure in Jewish and Christian tradition—both as a prophet and as a symbol of righteousness and hidden knowledge.
The novel Enoch Primordial draws inspiration not only from Genesis but also from the Book of Enoch (1 Enoch), an ancient Jewish apocalyptic text dating from around the 3rd century BC. This non-canonical book greatly expands the few biblical verses on Enoch into a sweeping mythological vision: the fall of the Watchers (fallen angels), their union with human women, the birth of giants (Nephilim), and Enoch’s heavenly journeys filled with visions of God’s judgment. The Book of Enoch has fascinated theologians, mystics, and even modern “ancient aliens” theorists who interpret its descriptions as evidence of otherworldly beings visiting earth.
Godawa’s novel stays true to these biblical and apocryphal themes while weaving them into a cinematic narrative of epic fantasy. Enoch is portrayed as prophet, warrior, and visionary in a corrupted world shaped by fallen angels and their giant offspring. The story brings to life ancient imagery with fictional dialogues, action, and dramatic conflicts, giving readers both the mythic grandeur of the Old Testament and the pace of modern adventure.
It should be noted that some characters—especially the archangels (here we find fourth Archangel Uriel who wasn't mentioned in official Bible)—speak in a very modern idiom. For readers accustomed to the solemn, traditional language of heavenly beings in scripture, this may feel awkward or out of place. Yet, as a work of fiction, this choice reflects Godawa’s aim to bridge the ancient world with contemporary readers, making the story more accessible.
One of the strengths of the book is its extensive appendix at the end. Here, the author provides thorough explanations of how parts of 1 Enoch and other apocryphal writings influenced or were echoed in the New Testament. This section is a treasure for readers interested in biblical studies, as it shows that early Christian authors were indeed familiar with these texts, even if they never became part of the official canon.
---
My assessment of Enoch Primordial according to 7 fiction criteria:
1. Too long and strenuous action – exciting and/or concise – 4
2. Boring – entertaining – 4
3. Difficult to read (especially for non-native English speakers) – easy to read – 4
4. Predictable (common) – unusual and good story – 4 (since I was unfamiliar with some of these stories)
5. Shallow story – deeper meaning – 5
6. Messy and unfinished – clear and well-rounded – 4
7. Dry and uninspired style – smooth, lively, humorous – 5 (The archangels, in particular, often came across as almost humorous in their dialogues, which at times felt more like witty banter than the solemn authority one might expect from heavenly beings)
Total: 4,28 stars
July 3, 2024
**Intriguing, but...disjointed*
After finally managing to finagle my way through this rather fascinating yet convoluted story, I was left wondering if I might have made things at least mildly easier for myself if I read the books of Enoch first to better prepare for what I was getting into. Because there was a lot going on in this story, and quite a bit of it going over my head, sadly. So many complicated names. So many wild events. While I know this is an embellishment of a Biblical story with some liberties being taken by the author, it sure would have been nice if things were structured a little better.
I mean, don't get me wrong. There were some GREAT things here. Imaginative and creative imagery, believable character interactions. I loved so many characteristics of this story, namely the characters themselves, especially the guardian angels. There were so many fantastic moments and events, many of them thought-provoking and beautiful. It only made me want to read the books of Enoch even MORE than I already do (I seriously need to get on that already, pronto). I wanna know MORE, and that's one thing this story did right was getting me into that mindset.
But good grief, the pacing of this was just all. Over. The. PLACE. So much of hardly made sense to me. I didn't often catch what was happening or how one scene spilled into the next. There was so much randomness going on, or at least that's how it felt. It was like a tug of war of plot points fighting to get my attention, but each side didn't offer anything to make anything too easy to understand. Not only that, but sometimes very serious moments would happen, but only in a few words in the middle of a sentence. A chapter would be moving along and then suddenly, someone dies, and it's glossed over. And I'm thinking, "Wait, what?"
All in all, this rated at the same level as Noah did. Still entertaining in its way. Not dreadful or horrible or unbearable. I intend to keep going because I very much want to get to Jesus's entry. I just wonder if any of these entries will be on the "neater" side at all. Because at this point, I definitely feel like I gotta earn my way to the end, which is gonna be exhausting. I shall keep on keepin' on. I must. Notes and highlights can be found here.
After finally managing to finagle my way through this rather fascinating yet convoluted story, I was left wondering if I might have made things at least mildly easier for myself if I read the books of Enoch first to better prepare for what I was getting into. Because there was a lot going on in this story, and quite a bit of it going over my head, sadly. So many complicated names. So many wild events. While I know this is an embellishment of a Biblical story with some liberties being taken by the author, it sure would have been nice if things were structured a little better.
I mean, don't get me wrong. There were some GREAT things here. Imaginative and creative imagery, believable character interactions. I loved so many characteristics of this story, namely the characters themselves, especially the guardian angels. There were so many fantastic moments and events, many of them thought-provoking and beautiful. It only made me want to read the books of Enoch even MORE than I already do (I seriously need to get on that already, pronto). I wanna know MORE, and that's one thing this story did right was getting me into that mindset.
But good grief, the pacing of this was just all. Over. The. PLACE. So much of hardly made sense to me. I didn't often catch what was happening or how one scene spilled into the next. There was so much randomness going on, or at least that's how it felt. It was like a tug of war of plot points fighting to get my attention, but each side didn't offer anything to make anything too easy to understand. Not only that, but sometimes very serious moments would happen, but only in a few words in the middle of a sentence. A chapter would be moving along and then suddenly, someone dies, and it's glossed over. And I'm thinking, "Wait, what?"
All in all, this rated at the same level as Noah did. Still entertaining in its way. Not dreadful or horrible or unbearable. I intend to keep going because I very much want to get to Jesus's entry. I just wonder if any of these entries will be on the "neater" side at all. Because at this point, I definitely feel like I gotta earn my way to the end, which is gonna be exhausting. I shall keep on keepin' on. I must. Notes and highlights can be found here.
September 15, 2022
Well, Enoch killed some giants, which was nice. Him and Methuselah, Edna, Lamech, and Betenos, though her chance came a little later.
This one book could probably be split into three with relative ease; the backstory, Enoch’s family journey, and the Heavenly courtroom.
Because there’s SIX chapters of nothing but world-building concerning the Watchers and how they became the Canaanite pantheon, the ruled the world. If there wasn’t still more background given even after this, I wouldn’t be too frustrated with it.
The family journey is by far the most enjoyable part of the story. Enoch, Methuselah, Edna, and Lamech also some impressive things, meet Adam and Eve, recruit Betenos, and convert her to the true religion after a battle with Lilith.
Lots of fun.
The Heavenly courtroom section is somewhat of a misnomer because it’s not the only thing going on. At the same time, Azazel/Inanna is leading an army to the Garden of Eden, and Methuselah, Lamech, and Betenos are trying to escape Cain, a werewolf, with the help of the archangel Uriel.
Brian Godawa’s favorite part is no doubt the court scenes. The other two sequences just feel like adages, even at the peak of the action. They’re not boring, per say, but none of the three have been built up to in a satisfying way.
Azazel killing a Godzilla-sized sea serpent? Awesome.
Cain hunting his family while they hack their way through wolves? Cool.
But no emotional highs.
There might be a bit more narrative enjoyment if Brian Godawa wasn’t being political on almost every other page. I could see what he was doing and it destroyed my immersion.
While very knowledgeable about Biblical theology, prophecies, and hermeneutics, and able to integrate all of the above very well into the narrative, I can’t say the same for conservative political theory.
And, as a prequel, added no significant narrative context to the first book.
Some final thoughts about the characters;
Enoch Primordial doesn’t have female characters. It has a female character model that keeps getting new skins.
The archangel characters suffer the same issue.
Semyaza and Azazel stand out, as does Enoch and Methuselah, but Lamech is almost entire reactive.
Perhaps my expectations were too high, but I wanted more from the same author of Noah Primeval.
This one book could probably be split into three with relative ease; the backstory, Enoch’s family journey, and the Heavenly courtroom.
Because there’s SIX chapters of nothing but world-building concerning the Watchers and how they became the Canaanite pantheon, the ruled the world. If there wasn’t still more background given even after this, I wouldn’t be too frustrated with it.
The family journey is by far the most enjoyable part of the story. Enoch, Methuselah, Edna, and Lamech also some impressive things, meet Adam and Eve, recruit Betenos, and convert her to the true religion after a battle with Lilith.
Lots of fun.
The Heavenly courtroom section is somewhat of a misnomer because it’s not the only thing going on. At the same time, Azazel/Inanna is leading an army to the Garden of Eden, and Methuselah, Lamech, and Betenos are trying to escape Cain, a werewolf, with the help of the archangel Uriel.
Brian Godawa’s favorite part is no doubt the court scenes. The other two sequences just feel like adages, even at the peak of the action. They’re not boring, per say, but none of the three have been built up to in a satisfying way.
Azazel killing a Godzilla-sized sea serpent? Awesome.
Cain hunting his family while they hack their way through wolves? Cool.
But no emotional highs.
There might be a bit more narrative enjoyment if Brian Godawa wasn’t being political on almost every other page. I could see what he was doing and it destroyed my immersion.
While very knowledgeable about Biblical theology, prophecies, and hermeneutics, and able to integrate all of the above very well into the narrative, I can’t say the same for conservative political theory.
And, as a prequel, added no significant narrative context to the first book.
Some final thoughts about the characters;
Enoch Primordial doesn’t have female characters. It has a female character model that keeps getting new skins.
The archangel characters suffer the same issue.
Semyaza and Azazel stand out, as does Enoch and Methuselah, but Lamech is almost entire reactive.
Perhaps my expectations were too high, but I wanted more from the same author of Noah Primeval.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2021
3 1/2 stars — Enjoyable, but…
Enoch Primordial is enjoyable, but it has a few flaws. I wanted to give it 5 stars, but I can’t. And here’s why…
1) The author takes ENORMOUS creative liberties. His imagination is clearly on overdrive. And while I understand this is fiction, still… I prefer when authors play it much more conservatively when it comes to historical fiction.
2) The author injects A LOT of social, philosophical, and political commentary into the story. And while I probably agree with most of the author’s views, the propaganda factor is a bit over the top.
3) Some of the writing is a bit juvenile and forced. At times, it’s even a little cringe-worthy.
That said…I still give it 3 1/2 stars (well, 4 since Amazon won’t allow half stars).
For all its flaws, the book makes for enjoyable reading.
If you like alternate history and/or fantasy (especially in an ancient world setting), you’ll like Enoch Primordial.
Not only that, but I have to give props to the author for all his research into Ancient Near Eastern history and literature. While I think his imagination went too far in places, there is a basis for his speculation and creative interpretation. He lays that all out in the Appendix.
Bottom line: If you like Christian fantasy, give it a try. Just take his portrayal of the characters (Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech, etc) with a grain of salt.
Enoch Primordial is enjoyable, but it has a few flaws. I wanted to give it 5 stars, but I can’t. And here’s why…
1) The author takes ENORMOUS creative liberties. His imagination is clearly on overdrive. And while I understand this is fiction, still… I prefer when authors play it much more conservatively when it comes to historical fiction.
2) The author injects A LOT of social, philosophical, and political commentary into the story. And while I probably agree with most of the author’s views, the propaganda factor is a bit over the top.
3) Some of the writing is a bit juvenile and forced. At times, it’s even a little cringe-worthy.
That said…I still give it 3 1/2 stars (well, 4 since Amazon won’t allow half stars).
For all its flaws, the book makes for enjoyable reading.
If you like alternate history and/or fantasy (especially in an ancient world setting), you’ll like Enoch Primordial.
Not only that, but I have to give props to the author for all his research into Ancient Near Eastern history and literature. While I think his imagination went too far in places, there is a basis for his speculation and creative interpretation. He lays that all out in the Appendix.
Bottom line: If you like Christian fantasy, give it a try. Just take his portrayal of the characters (Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech, etc) with a grain of salt.
February 28, 2019
As other reviewers have pointed out, this should have been Book #1 in this series. It's a stronger story, and it lays the groundwork for the story of Noah. Enoch has been a person of great interest to me since I first heard about him in Sunday School. Enoch, father of Methusaleh and an ancestor of Noah, was a man who never faced death. According to the Bible, he was taken by God at the age of 365 from this Earth. The time period that he lived in was a fascinating period. According to the Bible, the sons of God mated with the daughters of Adam and produced a race of giants. I don't believe the plot of the story that claims these women were forcibly taken from their homes and died giving birth to this new breed of beings. On another note, this book led to a lengthy discussion between me and my theologian mother about angels. I had more questions than she had answers. Aren't angels genderless with male names? How were they able to manifest themselves in human form and mate with human women? Were these the fallen angels who were kicked out of Heaven with Lucifer? In any case, I once again found the historical information more fascinating than the fictional aspects of the story.
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