Joab - The Rebel of Judea: A Captivating Historical Fiction Novel Set in Biblical Times

by Nachi Zaltsman

He can be the maker of kings or the destroyer of kingdoms.

Joab, nephew to the mighty, aspiring King David and an intrepid warrior, knows a destiny awaits him beyond the desert sands of his tribal home in Judea. On a humid summer evening, that destiny is revealed – in a call from David himself to lead an army against the pursuing King Saul.

Joab kisses his beloved goodbye and sets off to join his uncle. But becoming the general of a contender to the throne means more than just wielding a sword. Joab is soon drawn into a complicated world of shifting alliances, personal vendettas, and the irresistible lure of power. His mission is to protect David and lead his army to triumph. He wants nothing more than to see his uncle on his rightful throne.

But is Joab willing to give up everything, even his very humanity, to see the Kingdom of Judea victorious?
Set in ancient Biblical times, Joab – The Rebel of Judea tells a breathtaking story of loyalty, love, and vengeance as the line between hero and rebel blurs, and the fate of an empire hangs in the balance.

Genres: Historical Fiction

320 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 3, 2024

Reviews

[Vikki Vaught · Rating 3 out of 5]

This took a turn that I didn’t care for so I decided I would not finish. A disappointed reader!

[Nancy Mascarella · Rating 1 out of 5]

If you're looking for Joab, Look somewhere else

I thought this was a book about Joab not a story of David and his wives' sexual exploits. Very
Disappointed.

[Doug Snow · Rating 1 out of 5]

Imagination overboard

I've read hundreds of biblical fiction. When I saw this one, my interest was perked. Sadly, you lost me when I read the part with Abigail. It was disturbing to me. She revered God. The biblical account is far more interesting. It demonstrates the miraculous hand of the Lord. Not only was David rescued by the hand of the Lord through Abigail, but God rescued Abigail by His hand, not hers.

Liberties I can handle, but to change what happened when it is so amazing, I can't.

[Píaras Cíonnaoíth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping tale of ambition and allegiance...

"Joab: The Rebel of Judea" by Nachi Zaltsman unfurls an enthralling expedition through the annals of ancient history, plunging readers into the mesmerizing chronicle of Joab, a warrior whose destiny is intricately woven into the intricate political tapestry of Judea. On a sultry summer eve, Joab's ambitious calling is revealed, beckoning him to lead an army against the relentless pursuit of King Saul.

The narrative unfolds against the stark, arid canvas of Judea, vividly portraying Joab's odyssey from a tribal sanctuary to the epicenter of power struggles. Departing from his beloved, Joab embarks on a quest that transcends the mere wielding of a sword, immersing him in the labyrinthine world of shifting alliances, personal vendettas, and the allure of power. His mission is to safeguard David and secure the throne rightfully belonging to his uncle.

Yet Zaltsman's novel extends beyond a mere recollection of battles and conquests. Joab grapples with the intricate quandary of sacrifices demanded by loyalty and the pursuit of triumph. The narrative gains depth as the lines blur between heroism and rebellion, propelling the story beyond the conventional confines of historical fiction.

With finesse, Zaltsman crafts a tapestry interwoven with threads of loyalty, love, and vengeance against the backdrop of ancient Biblical times. As Joab navigates the perilous path to ensure the ascendance of the Kingdom of Judea, readers confront the poignant question: What price is one willing to pay in the relentless pursuit of power and the fulfillment of destiny? "Joab: The Rebel of Judea" stands as an absorbing exploration of human complexities, set against an epoch where the destiny of an empire precariously hangs in the balance. A great five-star read that comes highly recommended. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Shaavon · Rating 1 out of 5]

First I would like to start by stating how inaccurate this interpretation is. The book is about Joab (hardely) during the time that Saul was king. I cannot find any proof that Joab was around during that time. From what I understand, Joab comes on the scene after David is officially king.
Furthermore, the author's interpretation of Abigail and David was super disturbing! He diminished Abigail's virtue completely. I had second hand embarrassment from the description of their relationship and literally could not read past 18% of this book.
I have read a lot of Christian fiction books... Most authors try to stay close to the biblical account and the culture of the time in order for the story to seem like a possibility. Consider Francine Rivers and Lynn Austin, you can tell that the authors try to honor God's word by putting in the time to study the Bible and history.
Nachi Zaltsman perverted the characters and added fiction that completely changed the characters from the Biblical account. I don't think this author should write Christian fiction at all!
I dont suggest you read this book. Please consider reading the real story of Abigail in 1 Samuel 25.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

So well written I forgot it was fiction.

This story of Joab kept me reading into the night. The characters are strong and their personalities are well rounded. I kept thinking it could have happened just like this!

[Peggy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not what I expected

This was mostly about David and created some disquiet regarding Solomon. Just not what I expected. Was very disappointed with conclusion.