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City of God #3
Retribution
What If …?
What if you were studying for your Ph.D. in archaeology and somehow got trapped in first-century Jerusalem after a controversial physics experiment went horribly wrong?
What if you knew the exact date when Roman troops would come sweeping into Jerusalem to crucify 3000 innocent people?
What if you could save some of those people — not all of them, but you could save the ones you loved — only if you stayed there in Jerusalem yourself during the rampage?
It’s A.D. 62 and Rivka Meyers has given up hope of ever going home. Her husband Ari is a physicist, and he says they’re stuck in the first century. He also says that the laws of physics say Rivka can’t change history. Rivka now believes him, but she also knows that anything not written in the history books is fair game for her to influence. The only problem is that the history books say nothing about whether she herself is going to survive.
About The Book
Retribution is a time-travel suspense novel that mixes science, history, religion, romance, and adventure. It’s about making hard ethical choices between two terrible wrongs. It’s about digging deep to help people who won’t be helped. It’s about being a badass fighter for justice, even when you’re fresh out of easy answers to hard questions.
Retribution won the 2005 Carol award for best Christian historical novel.
Retribution will take you on a wretched, miserable, dangerous vacation through the filthy, bandit-ridden streets of first-century Jerusalem, right into the jaws of the catastrophic Jewish revolt that began in the year 66.
Retribution is the third novel in the City of God series:
Book 1: Transgression (A.D. 57)
Book 2: Premonition (A.D. 57-62)
Book 3: Retribution (A.D. 62-66)
Excerpt
Cold fury stuck a sword through Rivka’s heart. Boldness welled up inside her. She jabbed a finger at Hanan ben Hanan. “You ... you son of Satan! Hear now the curse of the seer woman. Before the third month of your high priesthood, you will be deposed. Before seven years have passed, you will see the destruction of all you hold dear, and you will die in your own house at the hand of an Edomite!” Rivka put her face up to the bars in the gate and spat in Hanan’s beard. “I am unclean with niddah uncleanness, and now you also are unclean until evening!”
Black rage slashed across Hanan’s face.
For an instant, Rivka felt certain he would slip a dagger through the bars into her heart.
Instead he spun away and stalked into the blackness of the night.
Rivka sagged against the iron gate. What had she done? Cursing the high priest—that was foolishness.
What if you were studying for your Ph.D. in archaeology and somehow got trapped in first-century Jerusalem after a controversial physics experiment went horribly wrong?
What if you knew the exact date when Roman troops would come sweeping into Jerusalem to crucify 3000 innocent people?
What if you could save some of those people — not all of them, but you could save the ones you loved — only if you stayed there in Jerusalem yourself during the rampage?
It’s A.D. 62 and Rivka Meyers has given up hope of ever going home. Her husband Ari is a physicist, and he says they’re stuck in the first century. He also says that the laws of physics say Rivka can’t change history. Rivka now believes him, but she also knows that anything not written in the history books is fair game for her to influence. The only problem is that the history books say nothing about whether she herself is going to survive.
About The Book
Retribution is a time-travel suspense novel that mixes science, history, religion, romance, and adventure. It’s about making hard ethical choices between two terrible wrongs. It’s about digging deep to help people who won’t be helped. It’s about being a badass fighter for justice, even when you’re fresh out of easy answers to hard questions.
Retribution won the 2005 Carol award for best Christian historical novel.
Retribution will take you on a wretched, miserable, dangerous vacation through the filthy, bandit-ridden streets of first-century Jerusalem, right into the jaws of the catastrophic Jewish revolt that began in the year 66.
Retribution is the third novel in the City of God series:
Book 1: Transgression (A.D. 57)
Book 2: Premonition (A.D. 57-62)
Book 3: Retribution (A.D. 62-66)
Excerpt
Cold fury stuck a sword through Rivka’s heart. Boldness welled up inside her. She jabbed a finger at Hanan ben Hanan. “You ... you son of Satan! Hear now the curse of the seer woman. Before the third month of your high priesthood, you will be deposed. Before seven years have passed, you will see the destruction of all you hold dear, and you will die in your own house at the hand of an Edomite!” Rivka put her face up to the bars in the gate and spat in Hanan’s beard. “I am unclean with niddah uncleanness, and now you also are unclean until evening!”
Black rage slashed across Hanan’s face.
For an instant, Rivka felt certain he would slip a dagger through the bars into her heart.
Instead he spun away and stalked into the blackness of the night.
Rivka sagged against the iron gate. What had she done? Cursing the high priest—that was foolishness.
394 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2014
92 people are currently reading
199 people want to read
About the author
Randall Ingermanson
11 books14 followersSee also R.S. Ingermanson and Randy Ingermanson
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
June 7, 2017
This series of three books was just magnificent! I did NOT want it to end. I've never read an author like this who could conjure up the most vivid imagery in his descriptions of happenings. (His descriptions of some crucifixions of men, women and children who had done nothing more than being at the wrong place at the wrong time) were so realistic that I realized yet anew how terribly disgraced a way of being put to death that cross crucifixions were, and what Jesus suffered.
I want MORE! Not more of the crucifixions, but just a continuation of the story. I am mesmerized by this author's writing style.
Personal opinion is that this author should hurry up and jump in on a fourth book offering this same series.
Wow! All I can say is "WOW!"
I want MORE! Not more of the crucifixions, but just a continuation of the story. I am mesmerized by this author's writing style.
Personal opinion is that this author should hurry up and jump in on a fourth book offering this same series.
Wow! All I can say is "WOW!"
July 28, 2014
Wow!! I was so disappointed - where's the next book? I can't wait to find out what happens next - but that's the end of the series. The author promises to write more, so I'll just have to keep an eye out, and in the mean time encourage everyone to read these books.
This is the third in a series about two scientists who find themselves trapped in first-century Jerusalem. That's the only science fiction part of the story. After that it's pure suspense as they get caught up in the events leading up to the fall of Jerusalem. Who can they trust? Have they heard correctly what God wants them to do? Can you be a Jew and a Christian?
The 'religious' storyline is so well told, you don't feel preached-at at all, and getting inside their heads means you follow their reasoning and understand how they come to their conclusions - even when sometimes they later realise they were wrong. Very highly recommended. More, Randy, please!
This is the third in a series about two scientists who find themselves trapped in first-century Jerusalem. That's the only science fiction part of the story. After that it's pure suspense as they get caught up in the events leading up to the fall of Jerusalem. Who can they trust? Have they heard correctly what God wants them to do? Can you be a Jew and a Christian?
The 'religious' storyline is so well told, you don't feel preached-at at all, and getting inside their heads means you follow their reasoning and understand how they come to their conclusions - even when sometimes they later realise they were wrong. Very highly recommended. More, Randy, please!
December 20, 2015
The City of God series was a nice story for a change of pace. A time traveler adventure with a twist! Very well researched backgrounds and historical events blended with characters from the Bible being witnessed by modern age lost souls. Well worth reading several times, buy all three in the set.
December 11, 2022
For a more generalized review of the series please see my review of Transgression.
This is a wonderful addition to Ingermanson's City of God series. This was a great addition to the series. It was educational as well as fun. The real brilliance of this story is how Mr. Ingermanson examined forgiveness and praying for your enemy. These are heavyweight topics and the characters demonstrate the difficulty of practicing these as one walks out their faith.
There is no escaping the difficulty of forgiving one’s enemies. This is especially true if your enemies have victimized you and are downright evil. We are commanded to forgive nonetheless. This struggle was dramatically showcased in the main characters of this story as a couple were unjust victims of extreme cruelty. Forgive them? Pray for them? You’ve got to be kidding me! We all know (and are?) people that have struggled with this. I’ve heard from several Christians who have confessed that they find it very difficult to pray for elected leaders who are of a different political worldview. I have resisted this practice as well. And yet, 1st century Christians did so as they were crucified and fed to lions. The characters in Transgression demonstrate this difficulty and working it out. This novel is very entertaining and, more important, challenges the reader on the importance and power of forgiveness.
In the afterward Mr. Ingermanson informs us that there is, at least, one other book on the way. I’m looking forward to it!
This is a wonderful addition to Ingermanson's City of God series. This was a great addition to the series. It was educational as well as fun. The real brilliance of this story is how Mr. Ingermanson examined forgiveness and praying for your enemy. These are heavyweight topics and the characters demonstrate the difficulty of practicing these as one walks out their faith.
There is no escaping the difficulty of forgiving one’s enemies. This is especially true if your enemies have victimized you and are downright evil. We are commanded to forgive nonetheless. This struggle was dramatically showcased in the main characters of this story as a couple were unjust victims of extreme cruelty. Forgive them? Pray for them? You’ve got to be kidding me! We all know (and are?) people that have struggled with this. I’ve heard from several Christians who have confessed that they find it very difficult to pray for elected leaders who are of a different political worldview. I have resisted this practice as well. And yet, 1st century Christians did so as they were crucified and fed to lions. The characters in Transgression demonstrate this difficulty and working it out. This novel is very entertaining and, more important, challenges the reader on the importance and power of forgiveness.
In the afterward Mr. Ingermanson informs us that there is, at least, one other book on the way. I’m looking forward to it!
September 7, 2018
Aw. After really liking book one and sort of liking book two, book three was kind of a disappointment. I originally loved seeing the viewpoint of history through such distinct characters. Eventually it became more about demonic forces and the power of forgiveness. Decent topics, of course, but it wasn't as powerful a view of history. What helped me stick with the series and press on reading was that I really cared about the characters. I guess I still do. Sadly, this book doesn't really come to a satisfying end for me. We still have no idea what really happens to our favorite main characters. It's a shame the series just stops here. So much anticipation... such a let down.
March 4, 2017
I've read all three books in this series, but I only have the energy to review this one, so take my comments as covering all three.
This is a massive panorama of a series. There is spiritual stuff in it, sometimes deep enough to be life-changing, particularly in book three.
It's set at around the time of the early Christians, so there is a lot of conflict and there is violence, but this was a violent time. The cricifiction, after all, was violent. And the cast of characters had me lost now and again. But, I would say, read it - it might just change your life.
This is a massive panorama of a series. There is spiritual stuff in it, sometimes deep enough to be life-changing, particularly in book three.
It's set at around the time of the early Christians, so there is a lot of conflict and there is violence, but this was a violent time. The cricifiction, after all, was violent. And the cast of characters had me lost now and again. But, I would say, read it - it might just change your life.
January 2, 2022
Fantastic!
The story of Rivka and Ari in first century Jerusalem continues in this, the third book in the series. Its fascinating seeing a fictional account of what happened during the time before Rome destroyed Jerusalem. I've known some of what happened but there more information here. Couple that with the spiritual lives of the characters and you have an excellent read. I'm astonished that a publisher would cancel the series. I am looking forward to the next installment. There is much h to be resolved.
The story of Rivka and Ari in first century Jerusalem continues in this, the third book in the series. Its fascinating seeing a fictional account of what happened during the time before Rome destroyed Jerusalem. I've known some of what happened but there more information here. Couple that with the spiritual lives of the characters and you have an excellent read. I'm astonished that a publisher would cancel the series. I am looking forward to the next installment. There is much h to be resolved.
March 29, 2020
It took me a bit longer to read this book. So much of what happened in Jerusalem in the time covered was so sad and awful, I needed breaks in reading. The characters have become "friends" and I hope it's not too long before Ingermanson writes more in this series! He has done a fantastic job of mixing history, science, and deep spiritual truths.
January 14, 2021
Amazing!!
Absolutely loved this series! Randy Ingermanson has a way of transporting the reader to the world through his writing, a world that is so well researched it could very well be true. Loved this book so much, what a journey into the City of God! God bless you Randy, and you as well, fellow reader!
Absolutely loved this series! Randy Ingermanson has a way of transporting the reader to the world through his writing, a world that is so well researched it could very well be true. Loved this book so much, what a journey into the City of God! God bless you Randy, and you as well, fellow reader!
May 23, 2022
This series is fascinating. I wish there were more books because this third book in this series doesn't feel like the kind of finale I've come to expect from books that are meant to conclude a series. That said, there was one emotionally stirring thread in the overarching story that came to an almost inevitable end that left me nearly reeling; but, I'm satisfied that the author wrote it the way it had to be. The character at the centre of that storyline was developed exactly right and I am glad I met this unforgettable character in this City of God series.
January 5, 2020
Better than book 1 and 2
Can't wait for book 4 to come out.
A wonderful series of Jewish laws and customs.
The end was so amazing. Especially the way Ari (one of the main characters) saw the meaning of the blood sacrifice
Can't wait for book 4 to come out.
A wonderful series of Jewish laws and customs.
The end was so amazing. Especially the way Ari (one of the main characters) saw the meaning of the blood sacrifice
March 14, 2020
Wish it wouldn't end!
I just loved this historically accurate trilogy.
I inhaled all three novels as if I was starving.
They were the Manna that sustained me.
I've sent copies to my brother and my aunt.
Thank you uncle Jay for introducing me to the City of God!
I just loved this historically accurate trilogy.
I inhaled all three novels as if I was starving.
They were the Manna that sustained me.
I've sent copies to my brother and my aunt.
Thank you uncle Jay for introducing me to the City of God!
June 3, 2020
Enjoyed this series
I recommend this series for anyone who dreams or wonders what the first century Jerusalem life could entail. Very encouraging and I felt like I was right there alot!
I recommend this series for anyone who dreams or wonders what the first century Jerusalem life could entail. Very encouraging and I felt like I was right there alot!
September 13, 2018
Fantastic read - hopefully series can continue.
Great characters and storyline. Interesting knowledgeable facts of the time, people and location
Great characters and storyline. Interesting knowledgeable facts of the time, people and location
June 9, 2020
Great ending to the series
May 11, 2022
Amazing series. Loved every book
December 16, 2022
Loved it. The pathos of the plight of the Jews and Christians living side by side in Jerusalem in the First Century is quite powerful.
July 11, 2024
Easy read. Great storyline. Loved meeting the characters and culture of the NT, prior to the burning of the Temple, in a different venue. I am now reading Book 1 and 2 Crown of Thorns and look forward to the future writings of City of God, especially Masada, having visited there.
September 3, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. I felt quite invested in the characters. To be honest, I have just finished the series (couldn't stop reading long enough to do the reviews!) and I am very much looking forward to more books in this series. I feel like I know Ari and Rivka personally. What is really nice is that the series doesn't lose its momentum and in fact, improves with each book. Give it a try - you won't be disappointed.
I went the easy way out with the reviews but I would like to add that these books are really worth your time. You don't have to be a hard-core scifi lover (or really like scifi at all). You just have to be interested in ... well, life, I guess. Those big questions, you know? I really hope that he adds more to this series; I will be first in line to add them to my collection.
I went the easy way out with the reviews but I would like to add that these books are really worth your time. You don't have to be a hard-core scifi lover (or really like scifi at all). You just have to be interested in ... well, life, I guess. Those big questions, you know? I really hope that he adds more to this series; I will be first in line to add them to my collection.
March 12, 2015
Wow...what a GREAT series of books! Reading the end of this just made me want more, and author Ingermanson states that #4 will be forthcoming in the (hopefully) near future. The amount of research he has done to write these three books is amazing, and I am very thankful to him as I learned a great deal about the Jewish peoples through these three books. For those who may not have begun reading this series, please read them in their order, and also be forewarned that there are some difficult but true to the times sections of these books to read. But worthwhile to me were the parts where Messianic Jewish individuals openly forgave others, thus stirring the hearts of some of the non-Christian characters.
May 16, 2015
Bummed this series is over for now....more to come later I've read but not any time soon. I rarely re-read books but this series I would should more come out down the road. I didn't have a much free time to devote to this third book so it took longer to read...probably the only reason I gave it four stars instead of five. The other two I read on vacation and couldn't put down. This one I only had time to read as I collapsed into bed. I write this at one am however so it is not like it hasn't grabbed me. I plan on continuing with this author's work. Please don't take too long to continue this tale however.
November 17, 2016
It is a terrible thing to be living in Jerusalem in the first century when the Jews are rising up in conflict against the Romans. It is even worse when you come from the future and know what the outcome will be. Rivka and Ari are a historian and engineer from the the twenty-first century and trapped in the past as a result of time travel experiment gone horribly wrong. Now they are living with the results and facing difficult decisions. Ari is torn between peace and violence and Rivka also struggles with hatred and loving her enemies. Both learn the true meaning of the Cross and listening to HaShem. I just wish the series could have continued.
June 18, 2012
Love this series. Would recommend to anyone. Really a great book to be reading at the same time as Not a Fan as the conversations Jesus had with the religious elite take on very vivid meaning. The theme of sacrifice unleashing power has really stuck with me too. Great story but I'd recommend reading them all from the start as the story and impact builds. Like my dad who recommended them, I wish the author would have continued to write their story.
August 19, 2014
As I stated in my review of book 2, I loved this series. It just kept getting better and better. Ingermanson did not let up on the momentum of suspense, dynamism of characters, or power of the story, right to the gripping end. My only criticism is that I did not want such a good read to end, which is my highest compliment. RI is a very talented author, and has me as a devoted fan. BRAVO!!! and SEE YOU IN JERUSALEM! (Now I must, MUST go!! Not just sort of!)
October 17, 2014
Loved it!
I have read all three books. I like how the author share with us events that really happened while still telling the story of the protagonist. This really taught me about events in Jerusalem in first century A.D. this explains a little more about the current Jerusalem. I recommend this series to everybody. and a note to the author: please don't silence Rivkah and her family. I am hoping for sequels. Thank you for this great teaching lesson.
I have read all three books. I like how the author share with us events that really happened while still telling the story of the protagonist. This really taught me about events in Jerusalem in first century A.D. this explains a little more about the current Jerusalem. I recommend this series to everybody. and a note to the author: please don't silence Rivkah and her family. I am hoping for sequels. Thank you for this great teaching lesson.
March 23, 2015
Most enjoyable reading. Couldn't hardly put it down. I liked the sequence of events. It came close to events I have read in other biblical books but of course with a fictional spin. I chose this rating because it had me wondering if things would work out or not and it didn't disappoint.
I would recommend this book to anyone with an open mind. The descriptions of life in that era put me right back into the bible.
I would recommend this book to anyone with an open mind. The descriptions of life in that era put me right back into the bible.
June 22, 2020
This series is a wonderfully creative, informative and inspiring venture into the period just before the destruction of the second temple in Jerusalem. I love the quantum concepts discussed and the way some powerful ethical issues are presented. Each of the three books in this series are very good, and this third book is especially gripping! It stays with you long after the reading of it! I highly recommend this series.
December 18, 2015
I really enjoyed the third book of the series, and was left wanting more. Hopefully the author will continue the series. It is so interesting to follow a couple of scientists who are trapped in the 1st century and are trying to survive the events of the time. Very interesting depiction of the Jewish religion of the time and the beginnings of Christianity.
August 6, 2016
Loved it!
I cried throughout this book as a small boy. It was so touching. And I'm still thinking about this thought that was throughout the book, that sacrifice releases power. It seems to make sense. It was very well portrayed. I just wish there was another book in the series already. I'd buy it immediately.
I cried throughout this book as a small boy. It was so touching. And I'm still thinking about this thought that was throughout the book, that sacrifice releases power. It seems to make sense. It was very well portrayed. I just wish there was another book in the series already. I'd buy it immediately.
March 31, 2014
Absorbing recreation of a dusty city on the edge in the first century. A compelling plot turns the pages while you get to know the spectrum of well-rounded characters. Meticulous research only adds to the enjoyment, without hampering the read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews