The Judgment

by D.J. Niko

965 BCE
Upon the death of his father, Solomon has been appointed king of the united monarchy of Israel and Judah and charged with building the Temple of the Lord in Jerusalem. He travels to Egypt to negotiate with Pharaoh Psusennes II for gold for the temple and to improve relations between the two nations. There he falls in love with the pharaoh s beautiful daughter, Nicaule, and the two kings agree to an arranged marriage. Against her will, for she loves another, Nicaule follows her new husband to Israel.
Forty years later, Solomon s empire is on the verge of collapse. Power has made him arrogant, permissive, and blind to the scheming of his wife and one of his lieutenants to topple the united monarchy. As the king s faith falters and his people s morals collapse, enemies gather at the gates of Israel. A visit from a mysterious queen restores Solomon s perspective in time to save his soulbut it is too late to preserve his kingdom.
Someone who once was loyal to King Solomon has come back to claim the crown of Israeland tear Solomon s empire asunder.
"

Genres: Historical Fiction, Ebooks, Fiction

416 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 18, 2016

About the author

D.J. Niko is the pseudonym for Daphne Nikolopoulos, a journalist, author, editor, and self-proclaimed modern nomad who has spent the better part of two decades traveling the world. As a former travel writer and zealous adventurer, she has visited remote spots on six continents, many of which have inspired her novels. She has a particular passion for deserts and the nomadic way of life and has spent time among various tribes in Africa and Asia.

The Tenth Saint is her debut novel in The Sarah Weston Chronicles series of archaeological thrillers. It won the Gold Medal for popular fiction in the 2012 Florida Book Awards, a juried competition seeking to identify the best literary works in the state. Next in the series is The Riddle of Solomon (2013) and The Oracle (coming November 2015).

On the historical fiction side, she is author of The Judgment (due out October 2015), which won First Place in Historical Fiction at the 2014 Royal Palm Literary Awards.

Daphne was born and raised in Athens, Greece, and moved to the U.S. when she was in middle school. Though English was not her native language, she became an award-winning writer and influential editor. She is editor in chief of Palm Beach Illustrated, a highly respected regional magazine, and editorial director of Palm Beach Media Group.

She resides in South Florida with her family.

Reviews

[The Lit Bitch · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I’ve really enjoyed Niko’s Sarah Weston series over the years and was eager to learn she was writing a new novel…..though not a Sarah Weston novel, this book caught my eye for a number of reasons.

First of all, I love the cover art, and second Niko does ancient, Middle Eastern history so very well that I couldn’t wait to see what this novel was about.

This book begins immediately with action. A battle, which sucked me in right away. I love when stories begin without too much back story off the bat. I was quickly invested in the story and characters based on the opening of her book. Who are the players? What’s going on? What’s the political climate like at this time and in this empire? She orientates the reader right away in the opening pages of the book.

I know the basics of King Solomon’s story based on Biblical readings but Niko clearly understands that not every reader knows the story, so she helps the audience navigate this tale by recounting various important pieces when necessary and balancing it with known knowledge.

There is a lot going on in this book…..action, adventure, danger, double crossing, mystery, history, and romance. The book had all the right elements but there was one thing that bogged things up a bit for me and that was the overly ‘flowery’ and descriptiveness. I am all for adding big words and eloquent descriptions….especially in historical fiction but in this case it was a little much.

Sometimes it’s easy to over do it a little with the detail one wants to provide and that happened in this book for me. It wasn’t every page but it happened enough throughout the novel that I found myself getting hung up on the descriptions rather than moving forward in the story.

I don’t remember her Sarah Weston books being this dense in detail but for some reason this book was more of a slower read than her other books based on some of the language she used throughout. I wasn’t sure if she was trying to make the reader feel like they were there or if she really wanted to pain an image…..I personally felt like her story telling skills and historic detail put me in the story much more than her descriptions and word choices etc.

As I said though, Niko really knows her ancient Middle Eastern/Near East history so well that, dense or not, I enjoyed how the story unfolded and it made me see King Solomon in a whole different perspective! I enjoyed the action sequences and the characters but for me it was the history that won me over.

Though this is a different book than her Sarah Weston books, I think there is much for readers to enjoy…..the action, danger, and intrigue is enough for even the most seasoned historical fiction readers…..it’s something new and different in a genre dominated by Tudor, Victorian, and Regency periods…..the Ancient World is an untapped period in history that gives the ‘big three’ a run for their money when it comes to ‘court’ politics and wars!

See my full review here

[Victor Gentile · Rating 5 out of 5]

D.J. Niko in her new book, “The Judgment” published by Medallion Press takes us into the life of Solomon.

From the Back Cover: 965 BCE

Upon the death of his father, Solomon has been appointed king of the united monarchy of Israel and Judah and charged with building the Temple of the Lord in Jerusalem. He travels to Egypt to negotiate with Pharaoh Psusennes II for gold for the temple and to improve relations between the two nations. There he falls in love with the pharaoh’s beautiful daughter, Nicaule, and the two kings agree to an arranged marriage. Against her will, for she loves another, Nicaule follows her new husband to Israel.

Forty years later, Solomon’s empire is on the verge of collapse. Power has made him arrogant, permissive, and blind to the scheming of his wife and one of his lieutenants to topple the united monarchy. As the king’s faith falters and his people’s morals collapse, enemies gather at the gates of Israel. A visit from a mysterious queen restores Solomon’s perspective in time to save his soul—but it is too late to preserve his kingdom.

Someone who once was loyal to King Solomon has come back to claim the crown of Israel—and tear Solomon’s empire asunder.

You can read all about Solomon in the Bible in 1 Kings however there is only so much written about him there. Now Ms. Niko has done us a service and told us his story. I think this is historical fiction at its finest. Ms. Niko is an incredible writer who really knows how to get us involved with all the characters as if we were living with them. Get ready there is a lot going on in this book. I think, it is a true winner. Intrigue, mystery, danger, and double crosses, are all ingredients in this page turning adventure. Ms. Niko does a great job of making us feel that we are there and living the events rather than just reading about them. I enjoyed this book and would really like to see them make this into a movie it is that good.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Medallion Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Egyptian Princess Nicaule is selected by King Solomon of the Israelites to become his bride, she is forced to leave her home and her lover. She vows to one day return to her home and to her true love. Years pass while Solomon’s wealth expands and his empire flourishes. But soon pride and arrogance subdue his faith, and the Lord withdraws his support. Does the ensuing chaos and treachery give Nicaule the opportunity she’s waited for a lifetime to achieve? Moreover, will the new pharaoh—her former lover—still want her? With rich detail, D.J. Niko portrays the lives of several characters during the reign of King Solomon. History comes alive in this engrossing tale that sweeps you back in time.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Most of us know of Solomon from the Bible but we know of the wise man. The man who deliberates about mothers and babies. The man who rules his nation with God on his side and peace in his kingdom. The Biblical Solomon. But what is often forgotten in the myth of a legend is the man. This historical/Biblical fiction tale from D.J. Niko gives us Solomon, the man.

He is a younger man as the book starts and full of the righteousness of his rule. He sets out to build a temple and he heads off to Egypt to make arrangements. There he spots the Pharoah’s daughter and despite being warned it’s a bad idea he negotiates his marriage to her as part of his visit. This Solomon didn’t let a pretty girl go unremarked. He didn’t stop to consider that Nicaule might already have feelings for someone.

The story details the rise and strength of Solomon’s empire but all that rises as we well know will fall and as things begin to crumble Solomon doesn’t see what is happening around him as he feels his rule is ordained by God. His family and advisers try to warn him but his hubris will not allow him to listen until it is far too late.

This was a great read. I do enjoy Biblical fiction and Ms. Niko created a rich world for Solomon from what little she had to use. He was writ large on the page and she made him very human. She brought the time period to vivid life in a book I want to read again. For anyone with an interest in this period in history or this story from the Bible this book will be a great addition to your reading library.

4.5

[Gwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this historical fiction book. It had action, romance, revenge, anything you could want in a book. Nicaule, a princess of Egypt, is married (against her will) to Solomon, king of Israel. The story progresses from there and is enthralling. I read this book in one weekend.

I received this book free from Goodreads First Reads.

[Avis Gill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story takes place in the year 965BCE. Solomon has been appointed king, after the death of his father. He travels to Egypt to negotiate with Pharaoh Psusennes II for gold for the temple and to improve relations between the two nations. There he falls in love with the pharaoh's daughter, Nicaule, and the two kings agree to an arranged marriage. But Nicaule loves another and marries against her will and follows her new husband to Israel.
Forty years later, Solomon's empire is on the verge of collapse and power has made him arrogant, permissive and blind to the scheming of his wife and along with one of his lieutenants, plan to topple the united monarchy.
A very good read and interesting story line about the rise and fall of King Solomon, who once found favor with God.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story of Solomon, his traitorous Egyptian wife, Nicaule, and their daughter was a biblical tale I was not familiar with. That being said, it was kind of depressing. Despite his wisdom and the construction of Jerusalem’s temple, Solomon was flawed. Nicaule’s bitterness toward her husband and adopted country was the driving force of this book and it would lead to Israel’s demise. There were no characters that elicited sympathy. It was a mildly interesting story overall, but not the best example of biblical fiction that I’ve encountered.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.

[Dennis · Rating 3 out of 5]

The wife of King Solomon, an Egyptian daughter of a Pharaoh, remains dedicated to her Egyptian heritage. Through lies, deception and infidelity she single-handedly destroys the House of David.

[Malacima · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,80 stars

[Norla Chee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating. Brings historical figures to life, revealing their strengths as well as their weaknesses. Couldn't put it down.

[Michelle Stockard Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Judgment is an historical novel based on the life and reign of the biblical Solomon. It is very well written, descriptive and lyrical.

I have to admit to not knowing much of Solomon's story. I'm more familiar with his father, David's story, as I have always been fascinated by the story of David and Bathsheba. The author has done a wonderful job of telling the story (with some embellishment, I'm sure), taking the reader on a jury into the historical and biblical past. However, I have to admit to having a hard time with all the religious talk. My views on religion have changed dramatically in the last four years so the religious dedication, and at times, fervor the characters experience was a bit much for me. I had to keep reminding myself how important religion was, especially in historic times.

Niko definitely has a knack for storytelling and she even writes a fantastic battle/siege scene. The opening scene when the women and children flee to the tunnel was nail biting. Also, the plotting of Solomon's wife, Nicaule, and how easily Solomon is deceived, was an intriguing part of the story. Once again, a man makes his decisions from the wrong end of his body. Why does it still surprise me when this happens in a story? It really shouldn't.

I have not read Niko's Sarah Weston Chronicles yet, but upon reading The Judgment, I'm definitely adding them to my to-be-read list. I look forward to her future historical offerings as well.

[Frank Lang · Rating 5 out of 5]

Die Bibel gilt als Buch der Bücher und beinhaltet unzählige Geschichten verschiedenster Autoren. Eine davon die Legende um den sagenumwobenen König Salomon. Einen Teil aus dem Leben Salomons nimmt Niko Daphne als Vorlage um einen eigenen historischen Roman zu schreiben.

Künstlerische Freiheiten

Angesichts der doch sehr unklaren historischen Gegebenheiten hatte Niko Daphne viele künstlerische Freiheiten, um eine Geschichte um diverse historische Figuren zu spinnen. Am Endes des Buchs gibt sie einen kleinen Einblick in ihre Arbeit und schreibt, wueviel Wahrheit in n ihrem Buch steckt. Bis der Leser dahinkommt, darf er aber an seinem Leben teilhaben.

Daphne wählte dabei bewusst nicht Salomons Sichtweise auf die Ereignisse, sondern erwählte drei Nebenfiguren zu den Protagonisten. Angesichts der Notwendigkeit viele Details sich auszudenken, sicherlich eine gute Wahl, um das Buch nicht zu einseitig erscheinen zu lassen. Auch die gewählten Zeitsprünge sind gut durchdacht und schaffen es, einen angenehmen Spannungsbogen aufzubauen.

Es kommt dadurch in diesem historischen Roman Salomons eigentliches Leben und seine sagenumwobenen Fähigkeiten weniger zur Geltung, dafür aber das Leben der damaligen Zeit und die gesellschaftlichen Verhältnisse des nahen Ostens. Denn natürlich muss man diesem Roman zugestehen, dass er auf wenigen Seiten über das Leben eines Mannes schreibt, über den man mehrere Bände geschrieben hat. Aber es handelt sich zwar um einen historischen Roman, der auf historischen Ereignissen und Figuren basiert, bleibt im Kern und in seinem Hauptwesen doch ein fiktiver Roman.

Der Leser sollte sich allerdings nicht von den bisherigen Romanen der Autorin blenden lassen, die eher als Abenteuer-Romane geschrieben wurden. Das Urteil ist ein historischer Roman, der Wert auf die Darstellung der damaligen Zeit legt und auch nicht davor zurückschreckt, zwischenmenschliche Beziehungen darzustellen.

Fazit

Niko Daphne hat es geschafft, einen interessanten und unterhaltsamen Roman rund um das Leben von König Salomon zu schreiben und die Handlung mit einer ordentlichen Portion Spannung, Liebe und Intrigen zu garnieren. Mir hat dieser angenehm geschriebene historische Roman sehr gefallen und kann ihn bedenkenlos empfehlen.

[Sarah Jackson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three and a half stars
“The Judgment” is an historical fiction based on rise and fall of the biblical King, Solomon. It follows the story of his arranged marriage and subsequent relationship with his Egyptian wife,Nicole, intertwined with the political machinations of the new Israelite state. The story is well research and beautifully written, as are all of D.J.Niko's books. The characters are believable and brought to life in this story of love, betrayal and mystery and adventure.

I must confess that I didn't enjoy this as much as I have other D.J.Niko books. I didn't get that can't-put-it-down experience, like I get from the Sarah Weston Chronicles. This lacks the humour and rollicking adventure feel of those offerings. Overall, it's a good read.

I received a copy of this book from Medallion Press in exchange for a fair and honest

[Kirsten Ateeq · Rating 4 out of 5]

Es hätte so sein können oder auch nicht! Die Vorstellung das auch die grossen Persönlichkeiten der Geschichte sich von Gefühlen zu " Fehlentscheidungen" verleiten ließen ist eigentlich logisch, warum sollten sie anders sein als "normale" Menschen. Allerdings haben diese Entscheidung dann grössere, vielleicht katastrophale Auswirkungen! Das Buch ist eine Fiktion, aber es wird schon etwas so gewesen sein!

[J. Else · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this as a reviewer for the Historical Novel Society. Review posted via their website at: https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...

[Tim O'Neill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good historical novel about Solomon and his reign.

[Sheba Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completely full of suspense with great action! A definite must read. I highly encourage it.