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Chronicles of the Kings #1-5
The Chronicles of the Kings Collection: Five Novels in One
From bestselling author Lynn Austin, these epic tales of struggle and triumph bring the Old Testament story of King Hezekiah to vivid life. More than 300,000 copies sold!Collects the five novels of Lynn Austin's sweeping biblical saga Chronicles of the King in one volume! Gods & Kings2 Song of Redemption3 The Strength of His Hand4 Faith of My Fathers5 Among the Gods
1413 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 5, 2016
720 people are currently reading
567 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Austin
69 books5,627 followersFor many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba.
It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.
Extended family is also very important to Austin, and it was a lively discussion between Lynn, her mother, grandmother (age 98), and daughter concerning the change in women's roles through the generations that sparked the inspiration for her novel Eve's Daughters.
Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.
Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published 27 novels. Eight of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.
It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.
Extended family is also very important to Austin, and it was a lively discussion between Lynn, her mother, grandmother (age 98), and daughter concerning the change in women's roles through the generations that sparked the inspiration for her novel Eve's Daughters.
Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.
Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published 27 novels. Eight of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
October 19, 2020
I needed this!
These five books have been a healing balm over the past two months as we head into another Presidential election. Seeing the state of our nation has been depressing, but reading these books, I have been reminded of the Lord’s grace, compassion, mercy, and most of all, His love. He will be faithful to those who remain faithful to Him. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Amen.
These five books have been a healing balm over the past two months as we head into another Presidential election. Seeing the state of our nation has been depressing, but reading these books, I have been reminded of the Lord’s grace, compassion, mercy, and most of all, His love. He will be faithful to those who remain faithful to Him. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Amen.
April 4, 2017
I rated/reviewed these books individually.
LOVED THEM!!!
LOVED THEM!!!
January 7, 2020
It was so hard to get anything done while reading this!
I chose to read this because it was recommended by a Christian blogger I follow and I’m so happy I gave the series a chance! Before this I had skimmed the description and passed on it thinking it might be boring, I was so wrong. The characters are fully fleshed out and interesting, the message in sprinkled throughout but in a natural way. Most of all I love how God’s redemption is shown over and over again changing hearts of stone to ones that can break through their hatred or fear or grief. The book does a great job of immersing you in the time period and giving you a notion of the places and culture. I loved how it brought the books of the Bible and time period featured to life for me. It was very hard for me to put the books down and get anything done, now I wish I hadn’t read them so quickly because it’s an experience I’ll miss. These are definitely books to own and read again and again and share with others.
I chose to read this because it was recommended by a Christian blogger I follow and I’m so happy I gave the series a chance! Before this I had skimmed the description and passed on it thinking it might be boring, I was so wrong. The characters are fully fleshed out and interesting, the message in sprinkled throughout but in a natural way. Most of all I love how God’s redemption is shown over and over again changing hearts of stone to ones that can break through their hatred or fear or grief. The book does a great job of immersing you in the time period and giving you a notion of the places and culture. I loved how it brought the books of the Bible and time period featured to life for me. It was very hard for me to put the books down and get anything done, now I wish I hadn’t read them so quickly because it’s an experience I’ll miss. These are definitely books to own and read again and again and share with others.
November 20, 2024
Love how this series brings you back to reading the Bible and seeing how the people mentioned might be doing things.
March 13, 2019
A blessing. With suspense intrigue and especially Love!
Lynn Austin is one of the best story tellers of the Old Testament. Her characters are real and her stories bring joy. Our Fathers forgiveness is shown over and over in the Old Testament. She brings us back in time to earlier days when God was the focus of all of His people’s lives. Ms. Austin brings these characters into our lives and make them as real and loveable as our own families. She brings God’s word to life. I have grown closer to God through her books. I wish I could write to you how big of an impact these stories have had on my life but I’m not good with words. Please read these books. I promise they will be a blessing on your life as it has been for mine. Thank you Ms. Austin for bringing God’s word better to understand. I’ve fallen in Love with God all over again.
Lynn Austin is one of the best story tellers of the Old Testament. Her characters are real and her stories bring joy. Our Fathers forgiveness is shown over and over in the Old Testament. She brings us back in time to earlier days when God was the focus of all of His people’s lives. Ms. Austin brings these characters into our lives and make them as real and loveable as our own families. She brings God’s word to life. I have grown closer to God through her books. I wish I could write to you how big of an impact these stories have had on my life but I’m not good with words. Please read these books. I promise they will be a blessing on your life as it has been for mine. Thank you Ms. Austin for bringing God’s word better to understand. I’ve fallen in Love with God all over again.
April 5, 2022
What an incredible read! I wasn’t thrilled about reading about the kings of the Old Testament, but I changed my mind. Lynn brings the characters alive with emotions and personalities that makes for a wonderful read. I was sad to finish the fifth book. I was constantly praising God for his mighty works and was able to find myself in these characters. The sins I confessed and the paise I laid atJesus’ feet while reading this was a fantastic experience. Thank you Lynn, for your beautiful writing, quoting Scripture to help me remember this really happened. The Scripture and story spoke to heart, my mind, my soul and my spirit and my mind.
February 6, 2024
An incredibly gifted writer!
As one who loves history and has a love for God's Word, I have long been a fan of historical novels; especially when based on the happenings of Scripture. Lynn Austin, through her very extensive and careful research, brought to life what had previously been rather uninteresting stories of three of Judah's kings. With her God given talent, she paints a vivid picture of life during the period, and spurred me to do my own reading and study of Scripture with a renewed love and interest. There is so much more I could say about these books, but time and space obviously prevent.
From me, personally, however, "Thank you, Ms. Austin, for using God's gifts to His glory. These stories were amazing!"
As one who loves history and has a love for God's Word, I have long been a fan of historical novels; especially when based on the happenings of Scripture. Lynn Austin, through her very extensive and careful research, brought to life what had previously been rather uninteresting stories of three of Judah's kings. With her God given talent, she paints a vivid picture of life during the period, and spurred me to do my own reading and study of Scripture with a renewed love and interest. There is so much more I could say about these books, but time and space obviously prevent.
From me, personally, however, "Thank you, Ms. Austin, for using God's gifts to His glory. These stories were amazing!"
June 11, 2021
Stories of Redemption
Lynn Austin was to put flesh on and blood in the Biblical characters central to her stories. When you read these same stories in the Bible, unless you have a vivid imagination like Lynn Austin, you will struggle comprehending that these were true stories about living and breathing people, with all the faults and foibles common to human beings. Their ultimate redemption in Austin's "fiction" is the overwhelming theme of her books: no one's sins are beyond God's power to forgive if the sinner truly reprints of their sins and turns to God for healing and restoration.
Lynn Austin was to put flesh on and blood in the Biblical characters central to her stories. When you read these same stories in the Bible, unless you have a vivid imagination like Lynn Austin, you will struggle comprehending that these were true stories about living and breathing people, with all the faults and foibles common to human beings. Their ultimate redemption in Austin's "fiction" is the overwhelming theme of her books: no one's sins are beyond God's power to forgive if the sinner truly reprints of their sins and turns to God for healing and restoration.
May 24, 2020
A Profoundly Riveting Compelling Collection!
I found Lynn Austin's CHRONICLES OF THE KINGS brought the history of the Hebrew Scriptures to life in an indelible way. This a deeply instructive and engaging series. Besides, it's a true page turner! Whole sections I could not put down until I finished a section. Now, I have a much better understanding of life and history of Jerusalem centuries ago. Happy reading!
I tried to give it five stars.
I found Lynn Austin's CHRONICLES OF THE KINGS brought the history of the Hebrew Scriptures to life in an indelible way. This a deeply instructive and engaging series. Besides, it's a true page turner! Whole sections I could not put down until I finished a section. Now, I have a much better understanding of life and history of Jerusalem centuries ago. Happy reading!
I tried to give it five stars.
March 31, 2021
Chronicles of The Kings
Lynn Austin has put flesh and blood on the bones of these ancient kings of Judaea! Her stories make them come alive. Hezekiah has always been one of my favorites and now I feel like I know him. The fictional character Judah is an especially complex person; sometimes a hero and other times a scoundrel. I could not put this book down and highly recommend it to others who love historical fiction.
Lynn Austin has put flesh and blood on the bones of these ancient kings of Judaea! Her stories make them come alive. Hezekiah has always been one of my favorites and now I feel like I know him. The fictional character Judah is an especially complex person; sometimes a hero and other times a scoundrel. I could not put this book down and highly recommend it to others who love historical fiction.
June 1, 2018
Outstanding
Lynn Austin does an amazing job of weaving history and fiction and God s truth together in this series. You will learn about the history of the Jewish people, be moved by the characters struggles, and have your own faith reinforced by the spiritual truths scattered throughout the books.
Lynn Austin does an amazing job of weaving history and fiction and God s truth together in this series. You will learn about the history of the Jewish people, be moved by the characters struggles, and have your own faith reinforced by the spiritual truths scattered throughout the books.
October 18, 2020
A masterpiece
The Chronicles gave me an insight into faith, pride and forgiveness which I never new. The story and events are well explained and the characters very well developed so that you can relate to them. Reading the Chronicles has deepened my faith with a fervor to learn more.
The Chronicles gave me an insight into faith, pride and forgiveness which I never new. The story and events are well explained and the characters very well developed so that you can relate to them. Reading the Chronicles has deepened my faith with a fervor to learn more.
February 7, 2021
A Walk into the Past
These books brought me through many emotional ups and downs. I went to the bible and compared the references given and the books are pretty accurate. They give a taste of what life was like in biblical times. Well worth the read if you can keep in mind that it is historical fiction.
These books brought me through many emotional ups and downs. I went to the bible and compared the references given and the books are pretty accurate. They give a taste of what life was like in biblical times. Well worth the read if you can keep in mind that it is historical fiction.
August 10, 2021
Wonderful
If you like History, and Biblical History even more then you will enjoy this book. Each book flows into the next and the story lines brings the reader into vivid imagery of the time. It is also a beautiful picture or redemption threaded into each book from
Beginning to end.
If you like History, and Biblical History even more then you will enjoy this book. Each book flows into the next and the story lines brings the reader into vivid imagery of the time. It is also a beautiful picture or redemption threaded into each book from
Beginning to end.
December 23, 2023
This began as my end of summer reading.
It was so good, so exciting, so well written that I had to put it down every so often and take a breath.
I just today finished the last book in the series after setting it aside for awhile because I didn't want it to end.
Lynn Austin is an amazing author.
I enjoyed, gasped, and went through so many emotions.
I regret not one of them.
It was so good, so exciting, so well written that I had to put it down every so often and take a breath.
I just today finished the last book in the series after setting it aside for awhile because I didn't want it to end.
Lynn Austin is an amazing author.
I enjoyed, gasped, and went through so many emotions.
I regret not one of them.
January 21, 2018
Outstanding! - One of the best book series I have ever read.
I LOVED it! This author is amazing, and you will not want to put the book down. While the stories themselves are fictional, they do go along with the biblical accounts. I would highly recommend this series.
I LOVED it! This author is amazing, and you will not want to put the book down. While the stories themselves are fictional, they do go along with the biblical accounts. I would highly recommend this series.
April 24, 2018
I'd give it more then 5 stars if I could.
This book brought the Bible to life and reminded me how real these people were and how real God was in their life and how real he is in mine.
This book brought the Bible to life and reminded me how real these people were and how real God was in their life and how real he is in mine.
May 10, 2018
Wonderful... Wonderful!
Did not want to come to the end of these books. Not only are these a great read, but will renew your spirit. I am going to look for more of her books.
Definitely recommend this series... You will not be disappointed.
Did not want to come to the end of these books. Not only are these a great read, but will renew your spirit. I am going to look for more of her books.
Definitely recommend this series... You will not be disappointed.
August 1, 2018
Forgiven!
I don't know if I can find words to say how much I enjoyed The Chronicles of the Kings. It totally makes you see how much our Heavenly Father loves us and how He forgives us. All we have to do is ask.
I don't know if I can find words to say how much I enjoyed The Chronicles of the Kings. It totally makes you see how much our Heavenly Father loves us and how He forgives us. All we have to do is ask.
April 19, 2019
Couldn’t Put the Series Down
Loved this series!! It helped me dig into the Old Testament and historical books to learn more. More importantly it reminded me of Gods redemption, when we deserve it the least.
Loved this series!! It helped me dig into the Old Testament and historical books to learn more. More importantly it reminded me of Gods redemption, when we deserve it the least.
July 24, 2019
Beautifully written biblical novel
I love biblical fiction and this was a great indeed. I love how the stories are so intertwined yet you feel as though you get to know the characters personally. More than entertainment with some valuable lessons to be learnt.
I love biblical fiction and this was a great indeed. I love how the stories are so intertwined yet you feel as though you get to know the characters personally. More than entertainment with some valuable lessons to be learnt.
August 6, 2019
Wonderful characterizations, biblical history comes alive!
These books offer a wonderful way to immerse yourself in this time and the lives of the people we read about in the old testament. Truly fascinating.
These books offer a wonderful way to immerse yourself in this time and the lives of the people we read about in the old testament. Truly fascinating.
April 23, 2021
Enjoy These Books
Lynn Austin makes The Old Testament come alive. These great stores of the Bible are not well known nowadays. I read all five books. One leads into the next book. Very hard to put down. All of them are excellent.
Lynn Austin makes The Old Testament come alive. These great stores of the Bible are not well known nowadays. I read all five books. One leads into the next book. Very hard to put down. All of them are excellent.
December 30, 2021
Interesting
There was a lot of context to put the kings and prophets in their places historically. The plots/characters were alright, but not much depth. I’m glad I read it once, but wouldn’t read it again.
There was a lot of context to put the kings and prophets in their places historically. The plots/characters were alright, but not much depth. I’m glad I read it once, but wouldn’t read it again.
February 28, 2022
Enjoyed
I enjoy biblical fiction as it allows me the privilege of seeing the true biblical events in another light. That Hezekiah and Isaiah were contemporaries and that Mannasah returns after his years of deception shows God's deep mercy!
I enjoy biblical fiction as it allows me the privilege of seeing the true biblical events in another light. That Hezekiah and Isaiah were contemporaries and that Mannasah returns after his years of deception shows God's deep mercy!
July 13, 2022
An awesome way to make the bible come alive
Lynn Austin makes some of the driest parts of the Old Testament come alive for her readers. I never thought I would be so drawn in. I'm simply pressuring this series of books.
I wouldn't have changed a thing!
Well done!
Lynn Austin makes some of the driest parts of the Old Testament come alive for her readers. I never thought I would be so drawn in. I'm simply pressuring this series of books.
I wouldn't have changed a thing!
Well done!
August 15, 2022
First three books in the series are definitely the strongest (probably because we have more biblical information about Hezekiah than about Manasseh and more historical context as well). But all are well written. Gives a better understanding of the kings of Judah and their impact on the country.
August 19, 2023
excellent reading!
Well written! Read first 2 books slowly and then couldn’t put down. Lynn Austin spoke to my heart through her writing. I could relate. His mercies are new every morning!
Well written! Read first 2 books slowly and then couldn’t put down. Lynn Austin spoke to my heart through her writing. I could relate. His mercies are new every morning!
November 28, 2023
Tremendous!!! God honoring and edifying words. ease read this series, so so good.
I recommend this book to everyone! I have never read Lynn Austin, and now this is my favorite series ever! Please read!
I recommend this book to everyone! I have never read Lynn Austin, and now this is my favorite series ever! Please read!
March 15, 2024
This book series was extremely ravishing, featuring the stories of King Ahaz, Hezekiah, and more from different perspectives. This biblical historical series is not something that would usually capture people, but it was extremely interesting, heart-breaking, entertaining, and un-put-downable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews