Chasing the Lion

Sword of Redemption #1

by Nancy Kimball

From the blood-soaked sand of the Roman arena, a divine destiny will rise.

For as long as Jonathan Tarquinius can remember, everyone has wanted something from him.

His half brother wants him dead. His master’s wife wants his innocence. The gladiator dealers want him to fight—and die—for their greed. Rome’s most famous prostitute wants his love. And the gentle slave girl who tends the wounds on his body and the hidden ones on his soul longs for him to return to his faith.

What Jonathan wants is simple. Freedom.

But God wants something from Jonathan too—something more than anyone would ever imagine. The young warrior’s journey will push him to the limits of human endurance and teach him that true freedom is found within. The greatest battle Jonathan must ever fight will not come in the arena, but deep within himself as he is forced to choose between vengeance and mercy—with the fate of an empire and the life of the woman he loves hanging in the balance.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Christian, Historical Romance, Historical

372 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 25, 2014

About the author

Author, avid reader, and shameless hero addict, Nancy Kimball loves books, Ancient Rome and all things gladiator. She makes her home in Houston, Texas and is the former president of her local American Christian Fiction Writers chapter, Writers on the Storm. Her industry accolades include a two-time ACFW Genesis finalist (Chasing the Lion – 2012 / Unseen Love – 2013), and a Romance Writers of America Lonestar finalist in the Inspirational Category (Adrift No More – 2013). In 2012, her best friend and critique partner bestowed Nancy with the nickname "Phoenix" after hearing her personal testimony. Nancy loved the name and adopted the Phoenix symbol to embody her life verse, Ezekiel 36:33-36. It later came to represent her brand, Fiction from the Ashes, symbolizing stories of characters that rise from brokenness to victory.

Reviews

[Jaye Knight · Rating 5 out of 5]

Right off, let me tell you Chasing the Lion has made it to the number one spot of my historical fiction favorites, and is my third all-time favorite book after Lord of the Rings and Books of the Infinite by R.J. Larson. There are few books I’ve enjoyed quite to this extent. I also want to make a note that I recommend it for older teen and adult readers. It does not shy away from the rampant immorality of Roman society, though I felt Nancy Kimball handled it well without unnecessary details. It also contains violence and extreme cruelty (most scenes cut away, but you still have to read about the aftermath). I have a pretty high tolerance when I read, but I caution more sensitive.

That said, I devoured this book in a little over a day. I first came across it a couple of weeks ago on one of the ebook sale websites I follow. I never spend more than 99 cents on an ebook I’ve never heard of before. I just have too many to read right now. This one was $3.99. Normally, I would have passed it up, but when I saw it involved gladiators, I just couldn’t. (I have quite an interest in gladiators since that became part of Jace’s backstory in Ilyon Chronicles.) I am SO glad I bought it. Chasing the Lion has a very Joseph-like storyline in the beginning, though Jonathan is not quite Joseph in character. He spends a good portion of the book driven by hatred and desire for revenge, yet, was so noble. I completely fell in love with his character. He was so easy to relate to, and my heart just ached with all his hardship. I don’t remember the last character who pulled at my emotions like he did. My heart would just be pounding sometimes as I was reading.

The book sucked me right in. The writing was so good that I completely forgot I was reading. I was just right there in the story. And it wasn’t only Jonathan who made the book. It had a very diverse cast of interesting individuals and points-of-view. Though historical, it had just enough description to lay out the setting, but not so much as to draw you out of the story itself. A perfect balance, in my opinion.

But I think what set this book apart from most was the spiritual aspect of it. Most fiction is just entertainment and relaxation for me. For more, I read non-fiction. It has to be a special book to touch me spiritually, and this one did. I feel like God brought it into my life at just the right time. Reading about how the believers in the book endured their trials and clung to their faith encouraged me to do the same in the trials I’m facing. The theme of forgiveness was also very powerful.

I can’t say enough good things about this book, and I can hardly wait to read more by Nancy Kimball. This is the first time I’ve wanted to start reading a book again immediately after I finished it. I even went and bought the paperback right away just so I could grab it off my shelf and easily flip to my favorite parts.

[Sara Ella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm an avid YA reader. Give me dystopians, fantasies or angsty teens any day. It's rare I am inclined to read a historical novel. I have to really be in the mood for one and even then I always choose books with a female as the main protagonist.

Suffice it to say, "Chasing the Lion" is not the kind of read typically found on my shelf. I wasn't sure what to expect. Little did I know I was in for a massive, jaw-dropping surprise.

I absolutely loved this story. I could gush all day about it, but let's get right into the review, shall we?

The Characters...

"Chasing the Lion" has the strongest male lead of any book I've ever read, and I've read a lot. Jonathan Tarquinius is complex, wounded, broken, swoon-worthy, handsome, brave, flawed. This guy has it all. I loved being a part of his journey from beginning to end. The transformation that takes place within those pages is, in a word, life-changing. I was in tears several times throughout the story. Nancy Kimball writes Jonathan in such an intimate way. I was so deep within his head and point of view I had to keep reminding myself that the author was female. This make's Jonathan's story even sweeter. It's obvious Nancy Kimball put a ton of blood, sweat and tears into Jonathan's story.

I also have to mention Nessa. Oh I love Nessa. I could read a whole book just about Nessa (novella anyone?). Her beauty radiates from the page in her quiet spirit and forgiving heart. She's the kind of woman I aspire to be, but she's also relatable. My favorite scenes from "Chasing the Lion" were the ones with Jonathan and Nessa together. They have such a chemistry. Theirs is the kind of love I'd like to see on the big screen someday.

The Plot....

Wow. This story really has everything. It's similar to the Biblical story of Joseph, but if you think that means you have "Chasing the Lion" figured out you're wrong, just like I was. I hate spoilers, so I won't give anything away, but Nancy Kimball puts twist after twist in there. I was so not expecting what happened between a certain someone and a certain someone else. If you want to know who I'm talking about, you'll just have to read the book. (READ THIS BOOK!) In the end her pacing was right on as was the way she tied everything together in the end.

The Setting...

As a reader I truly appreciate when an author does her homework. It's clear from page one Nancy Kimbal spent hours researching this time and place. I felt like I was there in the arena with Jonathan. I could hear the roar of the crowd, see the sweat dripping from Jonathan's brow. And oh my word, the fight scenes! I have to hand it to this author because the fight scenes were so visual, a man could've written them. That is a true compliment. I would not have expected so much detail in sword play and hand to hand combat coming from a female author, but Nancy Kimball pulled this one off above and beyond my greatest expectations. Bravo!

Recommendation....

Yes. I highly recommend this book. It has something for everyone. Love, passion, revenge, forgiveness, redemption, action, suspense. It's all in there. Maybe you're like me, and historical gladiator stories aren't really your thing. I urge you to give "Chasing the Lion" a chance anyway. Nancy Kimball has created a true masterpiece. Think "Redeeming Love" by Francine Rivers meets "Gladiator" with Russel Crowe. You won't want to miss it!

[Leah Good · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for a book that will break your heart for about 350 out of 375 pages, this is the way to go! Poor Jonathan just couldn't catch a break!

Suffering is a pile of stones. You can carry them, let them lay upon the ground, throw them at others, or you can build an altar. Build an altar, my son. Always.

Chasing the Lion starts out like a retelling of the Biblical story of Joseph. Twelve-year-old Jonathan has always been subject to bullying because he doesn't have a father, but his life is about to change. It turns out his father not only lives but is a high-standing Roman official who very much wants to be part of Jonathan's life. Unfortunately, his older half-brother doesn't share the sentiment. Sold into slavery by the men hired to kill him, Jonathan eventually ends up in a gladiatorial ludus where gentle slave girl saves his life. From there, his story departs from that of Joseph's and becomes one of a wrongfully treated young man fighting for his life, for the life of one he loves, and for the dignity routinely striped from him.

I've read few books that go from bad to worse to even more worse as consistently as this one. Just when you think things can't get worse for Jonathan, they do. Again. Yet he perseveres. Despite turning his back on his mother's God at a young age, Jonathan retains his honor and integrity throughout the book. This is not the story of a "bad boy" won back to grace by a "good girl." Instead it's the story of a boy who turns his back on faith because of difficult circumstances, not realizing that faith is his best way through the hardship. Jonathan clings to the dignity left to him, trying to protect others while holding to the conviction that God turned away from him--failed him. Will he eventually learn that God's hand has preserved him all along?

This book kept me up till 2AM two nights in a row. That's as good a recommendation as any in my book (unless you're neck-deep in finals or something)!

NOTE: In keeping with the "Joseph" theme at the beginning of this book, Jonathan's mistress attempts to seduce him early on the book. He's periodically humiliated by being forced to strip. Later on the book, a couple's preparation to consummate their marriage is described. Definitely at least a PG-13 rating.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fans of Francine Rivers' Mark of the Lion series will enjoy this gladiator tale.
Jonathan is a great character, and the book is full of twists and turns that will keep the reader staying up way too late to finish.

[Kathrese · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Jonathan will get under your skin and nestle into your heart. Ms. Kimball stepped out of the "historical fiction" box and onto the historical epic stage when she wrote "Chasing the Lion."

As far as main characters go, Jonathan is one you won't easily forget. The people in the book will live on in your mind, too. When you're reading the story, an epic movie begins in your head, and you can't put the book down.

The world building in this book rivals the level found in "The Silver Chalice" and "The Bronze Bow." Better than any other book I've read, this one brings the Roman world to life, from the lofty homes of the senators to the dingy back alleys and into the gladiator ring.

There's even romance, but the romance transcends the usual formula. Gritty and tender, horrific and hopeful, "Chasing the Lions" is a brilliant debut novel.

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

The life of a gladiator

Jonathan was the illegitimate son of a Roman Senator. When his father learns of him he is immediately adopted. Jonathan's half-brother is furious and plots to kill him. The scheme fails and Jonathon is sold into slavery. He ends up becoming a gladiator and falls in love with a slave girl who introduces him to Jesus.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A young pregnant woman is taken in by a Jewish Christian woman who is familiar with suffering. As her son Jonathan grows, Deborah, theor benefactor, tells both of them about Jesus and about the stories of God's works for the Jews through time. At 12, his father discovers that he exists and where the 2 of them are and brings them to his villa. It isn't long before his half brother Manius, who lives for liquor, women, and who will stoop to anything to get what he wants - as Jonathan later discovers, even to murder - makes his feelings about Jonathan and his mother Livia moving in known, but he is reprimanded sternly by his father. Once they have the best meal Jonathan has ever eaten to date, and his ailing mother is settled in for a rest, his father takes him for a chariot ride, and is impressed at how the boy handles himself. But when they come back, it is to chaos that surrounds the death of Livia, whom his father still loves, and who has been Jonathan's sole parent and comfort to date.
The Senator, for such his father is, takes the 12 year old Jonathan under his wing, sees to his education, and introduces him to young women from families with which he seeks alliances. Most are spoiled, wear way too much makeup, have elaborate hairdos, wear expensive, often revealing clothing, have airs about them, and are false to their cores. Jonathan finds no pleasure in their company, enduring it for the sake of his father and escaping as fast as he can gracefully do so. But one night, he finds himself looking across the room at a girl with a plain hairdo, little makeup, modest and not overdone dress, who seems as uncomfortable by the orgy beginning in the back corners of the party site as he is himself. His father notices the direction of his gaze and is pleased - this is the girl to whom he wished to introduce his younger son, and so he does. They mostly look at each other shyly, then talk, and it is soon obvious they're attracted to one another. Neither wants to stay for the orgy that will soon envelope the villa, and though his father must stay, they don't need to. Servants see them to their respective homes - but it is the last time they will see each other for years, for that night, his half brother's hired goons put a crossbow bolt through the servant's heart. They capitalize on Jonathan's weakness for helping the less fortunate to entrap him. He is beaten badly and left for dead, then kidnapped and enslaved.
Jonathan had lost his faith, if not the morals and kindness it bequeathed him, when his mother had died. Thus, he has nothing left to lean on but his own will. When he discovers he has been kidnapped by a slaver, he fights to get away - earning the grudging admiration of his captors. His first mistress is much like Potiphar's wife on the Biblical story of Joseph. She makes him strip naked in public, buys him, deducts the cost from what the slaver owes her husband, and takes him to her villa to be her paramour - but her husband returns early from his business trip, ruining her plans, and finds her husband irate at her purchase, until he finds out his slave can speak, read and write Latin and Greek, has been educated in the philosophers and poets of both cultures, and is a math whiz, whom he later discovers can find out where accounting errors are and if someone has "cooked the books." Soon, like Joseph at a young age, Jonathan has become the head of the household of slaves, and has a romantic interest in Cyra, the cook's daughter and assistant who cleaned his wounds and dressed them, then fed him, his first day there. But this idyllic lifestyle is not destined to last. Valentina wants him in her bed and finally gets her chance when her husband leaves on what will be a longer business trip. Valentina is certain of her beauty, her desirability, and her authority, but Jonathan, despite having turned from God, still keeps the morals of his life when he obeyed the Lord. Her overt sexuality is also a turn off to him. She tries to persuade him, to hint at the temptations beneath her clothes, but he is turned off, and she refuses to see it. She commands the servants loyal to her to tie him between two marble columns, and she continues to have him beaten and whipped as he continues to refuse to have sex with her. Finally, he is beaten to very near the end of his life. Valentina sends a message to the slaver, and meets him at a prearranged place in the middle of the night. She pays him to take Jonathan off her hands, admonishing him that she will have her husband make his full debt due and payable at once if he doesn't keep his mouth shut. It is by now the middle of the night. Her staff have been warned that the same fate awaits any of them who tell the master the truth. Instead, she says they must tell him the slave tried to rape her and run, and she had him beaten, but he had run anyway. The slaver knows a ludis - a training school for gladiators - will take a dead body, but they soon discover Jonathan is still alive, just barely. A living man to a ludis will net him more profits, and he knows which ludis has the best medicus...the ludis of Caius, whose doctor Quintus has repeatedly kept alive men who should be dead. Quintus does all he can. His assistant, Nessa, has been with him since she was ten, is literate, and knows as much of medicine, almost, as Quintus. Nessa is a Jewish Christian, and though Quintus won't accept Jesus, when he is desperate over a patient, he asks Nessa to pray to her God for healing. The prayers are very necessary to a young man beaten so badly that he is, to quote an old game (Zork) from the 1980s, "at death's door, knocking loudly." He eventually wakes up, but he has once been to the games as a spectator, and though he didn't betray his emotions to his father, the idea of men being executed by facing wild beasts unarmed, of beasts chained to each other fighting to the death, and of men fighting until one dies or gives in - to be thrown on the mercy of a bloodthirsty crowd and a bored official - thoroughly disgusted him. He doesn't want to be patched up, die, or kill, only to be returned to the arena until his own death, to please a bloodthirsty crowd. And so, he refuses to take the gladiator's oath. But he and Nessa have fallen for each other over the course of his recovery. Caius finds a way to motivate his reluctant fighter. He repeatedly sends Jonathan to fight before he has recovered from serious wounds Meanwhile, Nessa prays for his return to Jesus and tries to witness to him. Jonathan's stubbornness is the only way he has survived so far, but it also keeps him from his God.
Caius, believing he is punishing Jonathan, won't send him a slave girl to celebrate his victories with sexual favors and won't alllow him to attend the feasts. Little does Caius know at the time that Jonathan is just fine being denied both "pleasures," but when he discovers Jonathan prefers to keep his sexual purity until marriage, he sends Jonathan a woman who has paid him handsomely for sex with Jonathan - Valentina, whom he rejects, and in his fight to keep her away, she ends up with her cloak catching fire, and he does nothing to save her. Her screams bring someone who will, and she refuses to be seen by Quintus. Caius burns his sword hand with his knife, which has been heated nearly white hot. This earns him more time in the arena when he is not recovered enough to fight.
Though Jonathan doesn't win that often, his popularity has grown as people see his stubborn refusal to quit even when he is badly injured. But Caius makes a few bad bets, and is indebted for his gambling - thus, he loses Jonathan to a new ludis - Torren. Jonathan had been badly injured in his last fight, and that and his accumulated unhealed injuries meant he needed constant medical care. Thus, Quintus and Nessa accompanied him to his new ludis. They had been fired from the old one, and the new ludis owner had a physician already, and hiring another was an unwise business transaction, but he did find Quintus a job as a well paid army surgeon on the frontier in cold Germania. Nessa went with him. Like Jonathan, she wasn't free physically.
Torren made sure Jonathan healed fully, brought him into training gradually, and discovered that Jonathan, despite fighting right handed as he'd been trained to do, was left handed. Torren knew he had a treasure and that Caius had been too stupid to notice. Jonathan was trained to use his left hand, and soon could use either, which meant more wins and more followers.
But Torren was in on a plot against the current Caesar, who was taking wealthy nobility and even merchants and having them accused of treason so he could kill them, send their families into the streets where they would likely end up enslaved, and take everything they owned. The plot was to kill Caesar and replace him with a high ranking senator who was old enough that if the role went to his head, he would die of natural causes before he could do much damage. Having determined that Jonathan could keep his word, keep a secret, and couldn't be bribed, Jonathan was to be involved in the plot, but before that could happen, Jonathan, who had recently returned to his faith, found himself unable to kill an opponent who had fought well and whom even the audience wanted to live. The emperor gave the sign for death, enraging the crowd. The Praetorians and the 2 prefects in charge circled the 2 gladiators, who were fighting back to back. They were actually beginning to fade when the audience climbed into the arena, patricians mixing with plebians trying to pull the Praetorians off the gladiators. When the emperor realized what was going on, he gave the sign for mercy. The prefects were finally able to stop the Praetorians and force them to allow the spectators to return to the stands, which they did, aiding each other regardless of class. But the two gladiators had suffered many wounds, and Torren's plans were shredded. Torren finally told Jonatham what he wanted, and Jonathan had prayed about it and had a peace about his proposed role. And he discovered Senator Tarquinius was involved, giving him a chance of his father seeing him and getting him out of bondage. But when he gets to the villa that had been his home for 4 years, he sees Manius, sees he is married to the girl Jonathan had met the night of the attempted murder, and both recognized him and confirmed his identity. His father is dead, but senate seats were generally hereditary so Manius was a senator now. Jonathan does his part, regardless...but even though he is a patrician and a Roman citizen and proven so, Torren doesn't release him.
One thing that happened was Jonathan was badly injured after the Praetorians came at them. He had defied Casar's initial order and had been flogged badly, though he could have been sentenced to crucifixion. He was so badly injured, and there were so many scars that there was little intact skin to use for wound closure. Otho, Torren's medicus, began dosing him with high doses of opium, holding him down to force it in with Jonathan too weak to fight. Torren had what we would call a call girl with whom he had fallen in love, and whom he had used to test Jonathan. She had once been hooked on opium and knew the dangers, and the horrible withdrawal. She stopped Otho, kicked him out, and stayed with Jonathan as he struggled through withdrawal from an addiction he had had no part in making. After that, he never regained full strength, but he still fought. This was before Torren's plot, and as a nurse who has worked addictions nursing, I can tell you without that woman's help, Torren would have been down one honest, skilled person for his plot.
Now, Quintus and Nessa are back, Otho has been fired and they have been hired for the ludis. Jonathan has saved money to buy at least Nessa's freedom, but had given that and the unclaimed winnings of a dead gladiator to buy the freedom of a gladiator whose wife was sick, whose slave had fled leaving her without care, and who wouldn't leave his family except through his own death. His little girl gave Jonathan her gladiator doll, explaining she had her daddy and didn't need a gladiator doll now. The sick wife came out tomhug him, and he hugged her back. But now, he and Nessa were both slaves still.
Is there any way that he and Nessa can ever marry? Will he ever see Deborah, the woman who took in his mother and him, and for him, had taken in 3 other women like his mom? Will they ever be free? You can find out by reading the book.
This book is written based on facts about 1st century CE Rome, gladiators, how slavery was run...it is very well researched. I have always had an interest in ancient history and took Latin myself as a teen - well, I think more, it took me! I was somewhat familiar with some of the Greco-Roman mythology, as well as being a Christian saved out of the occult and after having researched the major world religions, so I am aware of early church history as well. I am also versed, though not expertly, in old and new testament history. Thus, I appreciate someone who has delved into research inro her subject so thoroughly that her book teaches me things I didn't know, but verified.
Allot extra time for this book. It engages you and doesn't let go until the end, and you may find it difficult - maybe impossible - to put down until the very end. It is so well written you will feel Jonathan's hurt, his love, his struggle against God, as well as the cruelty of Valentina, Caius, and to some extent Caesar. You will feel Jonathan's humiliation as a slave forced to strip, as Valentina tries to have her way with him, his hatred of Caius and fear for anyone kind to him in the Ludis...his confusion and humiliation at once again being sold as a payment for a debt...his concern for the poor when he is wealthy, his fight against God...everything. You will find yourself immersed and will finish feeling as if you have met these people and known them, as if you have gone back to ancient Rome to meet them amd be part of their lives.

[Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jonathan Tarquinius will steal your heart from the moment you meet him as a fatherless boy of twelve trying to escape the village bullies, to the sixteen-year-old son of a nobleman sold into slavery by his cruel step-brother, and finally as the brave gladiator destined against all odds to become the champion of Rome.

As you read Jonathan’s story, you’ll share in his resentment and fury toward those who have wronged him, tortured him, used him—from the lust-hungry wife of his master, to his greed-filled owner, and the blood-thirsty crowds that throng the auditorium. You’ll weep for him. You’ll love with him.

But will he ever find his way back to his father and home? To the woman he loves? To freedom?
Amongst the injustice, hatred, envy, and lust, Award-winning author, Nancy Kimball, weaves the beautiful story of redemption. The scarlet thread is intertwined in the narrative and dialogue of Jonathan’s childhood memories; through the love of a young slave girl who fight after fight faithfully tends his injuries and pours salve onto his wounded soul; and in the sacrificial death of a worthy opponent. No greater love has a man than to lay down his life for a friend.

Set in ancient Rome in the era of gladiators and slaves, Chasing the Lion is an epic novel written in beautiful prose. For me, every word has been a sumptuous feast and I’ve not wanted this banquet to end. Well done, Nancy. I’m so proud to call you my friend.

[ScriptLit-You Are What You Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

#BookReviewFriday
#2024readingchallenge
#18redemption

Book Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

# 18 Redemption

Book: Chasing the Lion
Author: Nancy Kimball

I don't know why, but I knew I'd use this book for this category when I purchased it. I guess it just seemed that the story of a gladiator in ancient Rome could only end up one way.

Four stars for this one, I really enjoyed Jonathan's story of love, redemption and sacrifice.

I enjoyed Mrs. Kimball's writing style and Jonathan's story. I was right there with him through his ups and downs, felt every emotion with him, it was heart wrenching and beautiful all at the same time.

I have one little critique of this book that I feel could have been corrected by a good editor. So many elements were repetitive to the point that I began counting pages until the end. Readers are smart, I don't have to be shown Jonathan's abuse over and over and over to get the point of what he went through. It was heart wrenching enough the first two times!

All in all, I'd recommend this book and this author. I've been wanting to try some indie authors for awhile now and this author only has one other book, so I'll definitely check it out.

Check out my reading challenge

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[Kevinity · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Chasing the Lion, debut author Nancy Kimball adeptly blends the gritty history of ancient Rome with the insprational message of embracing faith. A fully realized hero is born as the harrowing journey of Jonathan Tarquinius explodes like a spray of hot sand from the gladiator's arena off the pages of this expertly written, independently published novel. The genre defying story is engaging as a reader of historical fiction, sword-and-shield fantasy, and Christian inspiration with a respectable dash of romance to emphasize it all. Kimball spends just enough time on each setting and character, whether a lavish senator or a lowly slave, to immediately produce a strong mental image without drowning in details. She clearly knows her time period, but allows the reader to experience it with her rather than trying to teach a history lesson. While some of the violence is rather graphic, and the ending mildly convenient, this book caught my attention, inspired me, and deeply impressed me. Nancy Kimball is an author on the verge of shattering the conventions and expectations of her genre. I cannot wait to read the sequel, though the first book is entirely self contained. Highly recommend!

[Nicki Rhode keck · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is an absolutely awesome book! I love books set in this time period. this was reminiscent of the "Mark of the Lion" series by Francine rivers. if you liked those books, you will like this one. a friend recommended it to me. it kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. I read the audible edition, and I really hope that more books in this series will come out on audible. jonathan is raised in poverty by his mother and a woman from Jerusalem, Deborah. his father, a roman senator, finds out about his existence, and even though he was an illegitimate son, his father decides to do the honorable thing and claim him. his mother dies, as she is very sick, and his father raises him. also, his mother is a Christian, a believer in Jesus, the messiah. After she dies, and especially after his half-brother unjustly tries to get him killed, Jonathan turns away from his god. he is unjustly sold into slavery. the story moves on from there, and I won't give away any more, except to say that I loved the way his coming back and devotion to God was orchestrated.

[Angi G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chasing the Lion – The Story of a Hero!

I LOVED Chasing the Lion! To say that this is one of the best books I’ve read this year is an understatement. Nancy Kimball is a new author who has had the story of Johnathan Tarquinius burning on her heart for quite some time. We are taken on a journey as Johnathan grows from a young boy into a young man within just a few chapters. Tragedy and disappointment find him at a very young age and follow him into manhood where he is forced to face the biggest challenges of his life in the arena of the Gladiator. All while trying to save the life of the woman he loves.

The message of the Gospel is beautifully woven throughout the story as Johnathan struggles to find his way, leaving no doubt where true strength lies and where one’s faith is deepened. Chasing the Lion is the powerful story of testing and trials where one can come through the fire with the heart of a champion!

I give this book 5 stars and 2 thumbs up!

[Nicole]

Nancy Kimball has an unmistakable gift with words and storytelling.
Chasing the Lion is an INCREDIBLE story of courage, sacrifice, heartache and LOVE. I am not usually a fan of the historical fiction genre, but this remarkable story set me straight :) A great book is a great book, no matter where it's set or what the characters wear (or don't wear!). Jonathan is truly an amazingly written character. Talk about hardcore. He is a man's man. NO doubt about it. And he's a man you'll want to follow into the Lion pit.
A gorgeous tale of redemption awaits you...
Pick up this book! It will be one of your forever favorites!

[Carla Rossi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of reading Chasing the Lion before its release. I am a huge fan of historicals, but had not read many from this time period. I was totally blown away by Nancy Kimball's tight writing style and natural storytelling talent. Her careful attention to detail and painstaking research is evident in the story's authentic feel. Jonathan is a perfect hero, and I can't wait to read more about him in the next book in this series. This book is a truly phenomenal debut and I highly recommend it.

[Karls · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't say enough about this book. From the first moment to the last I was captivated by the journey Jonathan was set on. His struggles with man and with God, his ultimate surrender, and the results that came from each. Nancy has taken this man and painted a stunning picture of how God will pursue, never giving up, and always remaining faithful in His love for us. We may never understand. We may shake our fist at Him because of our lack of understanding. But He is patient, loving, and will build in us the person He has fashioned us to be.

[Reeda Booke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won't go into a lengthy review as there are plenty of them here, but I did want to at least say that I LOVED this book! A wonderfully told tale of the sacrifice, courage, love and the amazing power of forgiveness and redemption. That it was an historical fiction book set in ancient Rome, one of my favorites, made it all the better. That it included the important message of God and His love for us, made it the best! It was very difficult to put down. Highly, highly recommended!

I am hoping for a follow up book to continue this amazing story.

[Natalie Gleb · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I've read in a long time, maybe ever. I'd be comfortable putting it in the top ten.
No review I could write would do this story justice.

All I can say is, Nancy, keep writing. And be fast about it. I want to read more. ;) Really, this is amazing.

Can't wait for the audio book.

[Clari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read! The story hooked me from the first page to the last. If you ever enjoyed Francine River's Mark of the Lion series or the movies The Robe, Quo Vadis, or Ben Hur, I think you'll really enjoy this title.

[Claire Banschbach · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great storyline and characters. I just didn't really care for the way some content was presented. There was nothing explicit, but I just felt like most of it didn't really add to the story at all.

If you like historical fiction and stories of redemption, then check this book out.

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nancy Kimball gives us Rome—living, pulsing, breathing. I wanted to live in this world...despite the dangers.

[Kevin Tuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Had slavery finally destroyed who he truly was, or revealed it?"

Such is the description of Jonathan Tarquinius in the days leading up to his debut as a gladiator in the arenas of Ancient Rome. The son of a prominent senator sold into slavery by his jealous older half-brother, and broken in body and spirit, Jonathan finds his true identity through trials of blood, sand, and faith both lost and found. As he releases his control, he discovers an important truth: he can love and be loved in return despite himself.

Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous days of vindictive, cruel Roman imperialism, Chasing the Lion transports the reader into a world of sparkling riches and violent desperation. For a debut novel, this one impresses page after page with luscious descriptions of the settings, gripping action that gets the heart racing, and dialogue that brings each character their own independent voice. Author Nancy Kimball is clearly devoted to the time period, and writes with an accuracy that allows for some exciting history lessons along with the thrilling story of Jonathan's journey to freedom.

Well-written, the author refuses the traditional conventions of genre, preferring to let the story exist in its own space. Historical-fiction that doesn't lean on the crutch of popular moments from the period, a Romance that blossoms slowly and naturally without feeling contrived or meant only for gimmick, violent action that stops just short of gratuitous so that it feels real, but also accessible for most age groups, a religious plot line that never feels preachy or forceful but true to the time period. This is a taste of just about everything that makes a book worth the read.

A natural fit for fans of Ben Hur or Gladiator, but also a treat for anyone who enjoys stories of redemption or characters thriving through adversity with an ending that is sure to get you roaring with vicarious triumph. Highly recommended for all!

If you're more apt to listen to your books, this one is a nationally recognized audiobook having been nominated for a prestigious award for Joseph Narducci's compelling performance. You won't be disappointed with this one, however you choose to enjoy it!

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unfair is Unavoidable

The toughest parts of our lives are the ones we don't deserve and others could have prevented it they were honorable that is. Because of that, we can all relate to this beautiful yet painful story as the circumstances seem to be impossible to beat and then are compiled with others even more terrible. The hardest part of injustice is to try to keep our minds believing in the true justice of God. We battle with believing because those closest to us have betrayed our trust at some point and we tend to compare God to His imperfect people.

I am strongly encouraged by those who choose and are able to be kind despite unkindness, forgive despite the unforgivable things done to them, and to believe when seeing is not even an option.

Read this book and you will find yourself wanting to believe and vowing to try again. At least, that's what I did

[Vicki Andrada · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so loved this book! I've never read a book by this author, and this was her debut novel. You wouldn't know it by how well written it was! It was just so good!

In the pages of this book the love of Christ and the trials of this world that try to lead us away from him were brought to light. It was a good love story, and it was a good redemption story, both of which I love!

I love to read about Roman empire times! This book didn't disappoint how she showed the gladiators of the time, and portrayed how there lives were in and out of the arena. Also how she portrayed slave life in Roam. It was really good, I'd recommend it!

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

SO Good!!!

This story's characters took me on an emotional roller coaster - one I needed, to remind me of God's great love no matter the circumstances. Jonathan is flawed, but eventually sees Christ has been leading him throughout his life. That's something we all hopefully will come to realize, and remember.

People today are not dissimilar to those of the Roman Empire of nearly two thousand years ago. I'm now intrigued with learning more about gladiators; thank you Nancy for bringing these ancient characters to life.

[DEBBIE AGUILAR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Writer!!

This was written so well , I could feel the heat & sand on my feet the blood dripping on my leg when the Gladiator would fight. The love with Nessa & Jonathan was so Innocent and pure my heart ached for them to be together. We go thru pain in are life's but Lord will use for the good of others and bless us for are faith. Loved the Book !! Both her books are Wonderful!!! Thank you for writing them , I forward for more. Blessings

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was quite disappointing, given the fact that it’s rated very high on goodreads (4.6 when I wrote this), especially given the fact that it seems like a retread of Francine Rivers’ book “The Mark of the Lion,” which was a much better book.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this author! I'll be getting all of her books! This is a great Christian book that shows the sovereignty of God and the great power of forgiveness. Her research on ancient Rome is really good too.

[John Allen Gault · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

Loved this book. Could not put it down. Wonderfully written. Great read. Characters were real and it depicted the history of that era perfectly.

[Nathan Maki · Rating 4 out of 5]

This excellent novel swept me up in the fervor and fire of Ancient Rome. Highly recommended!

[Hannah Gaudette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a phenomenal read! Can't recommend it enough.