Samson: Chosen, Betrayed, Redeemed

by Eric Wilson

The original superhero movie based on the story of Samson and Delilah
He has many names. Lion tamer. Fox catcher. Man killer. Each with its measure of glory and shame. But for this young Hebrew with a supernatural gift of strength, there is more to the story. Samson has a God-given destiny to defend his people form the oppressive Philistine empire. After experiencing tragedy at the hands of a cruel Philistine prince, he strives to fulfill his calling only to fall victim to his own desires. 

As Samson draws close to a Philistine temptress with a secret, this man of unbeatable strength drifts away form his destiny. Then an act of betrayal costs him everything. At his weakest Samson must rely on God in one last effort to avenge his people.

In this novelization of the major motion picture Samson draws you deeper into one of the most famous biblical stories of the Old Testament. Experience the legacy of Samson and Delilah in a way you never have before.  

Genres: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Biblical Fiction, Fiction

Unknown Binding

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

Eric Wilson is a retired NY Times bestselling author with 21 published books in over a dozen languages. He wrote fiction (suspense, mystery, supernatural), film novelizations, and nonfiction (biography, memoir, travel).

Eric's books, in order of publication:

Shattered Nerves
(unpublished--written in high school)

Something Suspicious in Bear Flag
(unpublished--written in college)

Dark to Mortal Eyes
Expiration Date
The Best of Evil
A Shred of Truth
Facing the Giants
Flywheel
Fireproof
Field of Blood
Haunt of Jackals
Valley of Bones
One Step Away
Two Seconds Late
Three Fatal Blows (cancelled)
October Baby
The Eagle's Nest (cancelled)
Amelia's Last Secret
Alice Goes the Way of the Maya
Taming the Beast: The Untold Story of Team Tyson
Minutes Before Midnight (cancelled)
Samson
From Chains to Change
American Leftovers
What Are You Going to Do?
Confessions of a Former Prosecutor
Come Back Stronger (date not set)
Through the Storms We Faced (never found publisher)

Reviews

[Marta Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first memories of the story of Samson come from my childhood and the biblical teachings I had. I even remember watching Victor Mature in the film version many years ago with my mum so spotting this colourful cover had me eagerly requesting this book about this tragic hero. I note however that the publisher/ film company are trying to cast this as something to rival the recent influx of superhero movies that are proving exceptionally popular. There's no doubt in my mind that Samsons ultimate sacrifice was heroic but to compare his actions and strength to such as Superman or Captain America really doesn't gel that well in my mind.
However I did enjoy reading this version and obviously it's not exactly as told in the Book of Judges as clearly it's an account that's meant to interest and perhaps titilate cinema goers . That being said the author has fleshed things out to give a story rich in historical detail without being too dry or boring . Samson is just a young man with a zest for life that unfortunately means he doesn't heed advice and goes his own way. Yes he has always had a burden hanging over him but his youthful enthusiasm and arrogance makes him flawed and leads him to make choices that have huge repercussions. There is romance here but it's in many ways just a vehicle for all the treacherous and jealous acts that follow. Samson has a hard road to travel but he's not alone which is were I perhaps stumble as we see glimpses of his family that at times felt incongruous as both his mother and his younger brother feature frequently yet I'm still left wondering what happens to them next. So in conclusion I did enjoy this book and felt the action scenes added greatly and I'm left wondering how it will all look when it appears on the big screen.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Samson Is Mr. Wilson's attempt at retelling the Biblical story of Samson. Samson was born to Fight the philistines - he was given instructions by GOD from birth to do certain things and if he did GOD would honor him and give him Supernatural strength to use against the philistines for his people, but Samson was not perfect - he had an Achilles heel and the philistines tried to find out what it was to use against him. They used that Achilles heel to get the information that they needed to conquer that strength. Something disastrous happened but it was Samson's own fault, if he just would have followed GOD's rules to a'T' but GOD gives a miracle a major miracle through Samson in the end. This is so incredible and strengthening in your Spirit 1st and your love for your Lord well first too. I received a copy of this book from the Publisher and Netgalley; all of the opinions expressed in this review are all my own.

if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to Christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com - I look forward to seeing you there.

Merged review:

Samson Is Mr. Wilson's attempt at retelling the Biblical story of Samson. Samson was born to Fight the philistines - he was given instructions by GOD from birth to do certain things and if he did GOD would honor him and give him Supernatural strength to use against the philistines for his people, but Samson was not perfect - he had an Achilles heel and the philistines tried to find out what it was to use against him. They used that Achilles heel to get the information that they needed to conquer that strength. Something disastrous happened but it was Samson's own fault, if he just would have followed GOD's rules to a'T' but GOD gives a miracle a major miracle through Samson in the end. This is so incredible and strengthening in your Spirit 1st and your love for your Lord well first too. I received a copy of this book from the Publisher and Netgalley; all of the opinions expressed in this review are all my own.

if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to Christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com - I look forward to seeing you there.

[Sassy Sarah Reads · Rating 1 out of 5]

1 star. I didn't care for this at all. Mainly it was the writing style and the detachment from the characters. I read the first 85 pages and then the last 20 pages and that was enough for me. Review to come.

[Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's good to see one of my favorite authors getting back to writing, how he took a well-known tale of God's strongman and expanded it to breathe relatability to each character, make everyone deep and complex, and make the story truly enjoyable and hopeful today, not just some dusty fable.
Thankfully, this was 101% better than what the History showed of Samson's life (which got me groaning and rolling my eyes), this story furthers the reason why I choose Eric Wilson as one my top favorites in literature.

[Mark Easterday · Rating 5 out of 5]

Samson by Eric Wilson is the novelization of the movie coming in February 2018. The book is based on the story of Samson found in the Bible. I was drawn to read this book by my love for historical fiction, especially set in older times. Samson is set in the Bronze Age around 1170 BCE. Samson is a flawed hero gifted by God, but he is reluctant to do His will. Samson often follows his heart instead of the sound advice from others, and this gets him into trouble throughout his life. Though Samson could be viewed as the first superhero, he is far from perfect and oftentimes not heroic, and in that the reader can identify with him. In the end Samson fulfills his purpose in a combination of tragedy and triumph.

I enjoyed this book and found it to be a quick read. I like the author’s writing style (Samson viewpoint is first person, present tense, while other character viewpoints are third person) and found the writing to be engaging but not too preachy or sophisticated. The historical accuracy is high and you get a clear picture of everyday life in the Bronze Age and the cultures and people therein. The book flows well and keeps you engaged the entire time – there are no boring chapters or excessive tangents. In summary this book is very well written and I found I could not put it down.

The target audience for this book is Christians and there are many positive messages they can draw from it. However, I think people of other faiths who are lovers of historical fiction, action and adventure tales, and tragic hero stories will enjoy this book too. I look forward to seeing the movie in the theater.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

SAMSON by Eric Wilson


NOW A MOTION PICTURE


ERIC WILSON's SAMSON is truly one riveting story that tells a tale as old as time. One of my gavorite bible reds, Samson always fascinates me. He may be a gift from God, but that does not make him free of mistakes.

I grew up in a family of Catholic and I've known Samson's story since time immemorial. A classic bible story, one that I now share with my children, Samson, among all of the characters in the bible is a favorite.

For all of his flaws and misjudgements, he has a huge heart that often times than not, puts him into trouble. He does not heed advice very well and mostly opt to follow his own judgement.

Eric wilson made a great job making Samson relatable to people in this book. He let us see the struggle of being one of God's gift to people, and yet, not free of imperfections.

I already watched this on the big screen and I love how it was crafted.

This novelization however, was also tastefully done with great amount of historical background and the action scenes were flawlessly executed.

A must read for this upcoming Lenten Season, Samson will take you to the times were misjudgements and mistrusts will lead you.

**I voluntary read an Advace Review Copy via #NetGreviewin exchange for an honest review.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

ERIC WILSON's SAMSON is truly one riveting story that tells a tale as old as time. One of my gavorite bible reds, Samson always fascinates me. He may be a gift from God, but that does not make him free of mistakes.

I grew up in a family of Catholic and I've known Samson's story since time immemorial. A classic bible story, one that I now share with my children, Samson, among all of the characters in the bible is a favorite.

For all of his flaws and misjudgements, he has a huge heart that often times than not, puts him into trouble. He does not heed advice very well and mostly opt to follow his own judgement.

Eric wilson made a great job making Samson relatable to people in this book. He let us see the struggle of being one of God's gift to people, and yet, not free of imperfections.

I already watched this on the big screen and I love how it was crafted.

This novelization however, was also tastefully done with great amount of historical background and the action scenes were flawlessly executed.

A must read for this upcoming Lenten Season, Samson will take you to the times were misjudgements and mistrusts will lead you.

**I voluntary read an Advace Review Copy via #NetGreviewin exchange for an honest review.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Samson Is Mr. Wilson's attempt at retelling the Biblical story of Samson. Samson was born to Fight the philistines - he was given instructions by GOD from birth to do certain things and if he did GOD would honor him and give him Supernatural strength to use against the philistines for his people, but Samson was not perfect - he had an Achilles heel and the philistines tried to find out what it was to use against him. They used that Achilles heel to get the information that they needed to conquer that strength. Something disastrous happened but it was Samson's own fault, if he just would have followed GOD's rules to a'T' but GOD gives a miracle a major miracle through Samson in the end. This is so incredible and strengthening in your Spirit 1st and your love for your Lord well first too. I received a copy of this book from the Publisher and Netgalley; all of the opinions expressed in this review are all my own.

if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to Christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com - I look forward to seeing you there.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Samson Is Mr. Wilson's attempt at retelling the Biblical story of Samson. Samson was born to Fight the philistines - he was given instructions by GOD from birth to do certain things and if he did GOD would honor him and give him Supernatural strength to use against the philistines for his people, but Samson was not perfect - he had an Achilles heel and the philistines tried to find out what it was to use against him. They used that Achilles heel to get the information that they needed to conquer that strength. Something disastrous happened but it was Samson's own fault, if he just would have followed GOD's rules to a'T' but GOD gives a miracle a major miracle through Samson in the end. This is so incredible and strengthening in your Spirit 1st and your love for your Lord well first too. I received a copy of this book from the Publisher and Netgalley; all of the opinions expressed in this review are all my own.

if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to Christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com - I look forward to seeing you there.

[Chelsea Duncan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wasn't sure what to expect with this when I realised it was fiction. But then when I started reading and recognised it was so true to scripture, to the finest detail, and it was also so well written and emotional, I found myself really enjoying this novel. It has short chapters and seems a quick read. It makes you re think how you consider events in the Bible, for example Delilah has some redeemable qualities that you don't really imagine in the Bible itself. I like the fact that we get to see the failings of Samson but also his humanity in these things. The fact that God still works these things out for ultimate good is so reassuring and lets us know that no mistake is too big for God to fix. A truly brilliant book. Would recommend for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in history and get to know the bible better.

[Nadia Jonesy · Rating 4 out of 5]

thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read this book, Samson. This is one of my favorite bible stories, Delilah and Samson. I really enjoyed this read. Sorry for delay in reviewing the read and I hope to review books from your publisher again. The book gave detail and added to the story of Samson without providing misinformation.

Thank you again.

[Daniel Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! While I know the story of Samson from the Bible I loved this book! It was absolutely captivating and engrossing! I can't wait to see the movie!

[R. E. Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an amazing book from start to finish!

[Joshua Milligan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thought-provoking take on the riveting story of Samson.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Audiobook. Did not keep my attention fully and found myself bored at times. However, when the story did move forward then it was animated and engaging.

[Jeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This brought the story to life in an interesting way. It's worth reading

[Lindy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun beach / lake read

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read several accounts of Sampson - this is by far the best one - the audio reader was also spot on - very good - I would highly recommend

[Neil · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was an interesting read on the life of Samson. It started out a little slow, but the pace did pick up as the story progressed. The chapters alternate between "first person" (Samson's perspective) and third person. Samson does develop "as a character" in the book, which was good to see. There is that jump of twenty years in the latter part of the book (just like there is in the Bible); it might have been interesting to see Samson acting as a judge during that time of relative peace between Israel and Philistia.

As a novelization of a movie, some liberties were taken with Samson's life such as Samson's hair being bound in a loom not mentioned in the book, and the novel showing Samson as only having one brother but Judges 16 references multiple brothers taking his body back for burial in his father's tomb. Then you have Samson wanting to marry the woman from Timnah to demonstrate that Hebrews and Philistines could live in peace in the book; definitely not mentioned in the Bible!, but it was still an interesting take on Samson's life and what it might have been like to be alive during that period in time. I liked how the book expanded upon what life might have been like during that period of time, giving us a picture of how the Israelites and Philistines might have lived. I can never quite decide if authors make life seem "harder than it really was" or "easier than it really was" because we moderns tend to look down our noses at the past and "ancient societies", believing we are 100% superior to them in every way. And in many ways, we are superior. But I think sometimes (oftentimes) our modern biases get in the way by influencing our interpretation of what life might have been like. The book references Samuel living during the latter part of Samson's time as a judge, and he is encouraged to meet with Samuel, to compare notes and ask for direction from Yahweh. I had never heard of that theory before, that the end of Samson's life as a judge overlapped with Samuel's life as a prophet. I did a quick Google search and was surprised to find this is a valid theory, that some scholars believe they might have been contemporaries even if they never actually met. The book ends with Goliath mocking the Israeli army, implying that David's appearance is right around the corner.

It is interesting how many of the Patriarchs and important figures in Hebrew history were born of barren women. Sarah had Isaac. Hannah had Samuel. Samson's mother bore Samson first and than additional sons thereafter. Elizabeth bore John the Baptizer. I am sure there are others, but these women came to mind. I sometimes wonder what that was all about, why so many barren women? It might be nothing, but it is interesting.

The book is interesting because of how it also presents the common Philistines as being victims of their rulers just as much as the Israelites were. Well, more the Philistine women then the men. Either Taren (Samson's wife in the novel/movie) or Delilah make the comment that the common people of Philistia often suffered just as much as the Israelites did due to the abuses of the soldiers, priesthood, and royalty. Delilah is given a tragic backstory, and she is portrayed as having fallen deeply in love with Samson in the book. And she dies in the temple when he brings down the house in his final action against the Philistines.

Rallah killing his father like he did was pretty hard-core; I had forgotten about that. Still, the author also creates a bit of a "tragic backstory" for this Philistine prince in how Rallah's father treats him and even threatens to kill Rallah more than once. Rallah had multiple older brothers, but their father King Balek made sure each of them died fighting in wars on his behalf. Despite having such a horrible father and his tragic backstory, I did not feel any kind of sympathy for him at all. I felt he got his just desserts at the end of the book when the statue of Dagon fell on top of him and killed him. Still, though, it was a powerful moment in the book when Rallah took a small idol of Dagon and smashed it into the ground, deforming its face as he cried out "You are not a god!" after watching Samson kill an army of 1,000 soldiers and nearly killing Prince Rallah in the process. One of the better moments in the book (as Delilah is looking on in terror at Rallah's sacrilegious actions) - it reminded me of Achilles' actions in Troy and his defiance of the Greek gods, hahahah.

It was also interesting having Delilah be wounded by Samson's exchange with Rallah (when he calls her nothing more than a diversion and claims he said that to spare her life, to protect her), and this wounding being what drives her to betray Samson. Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, I guess! The Bible tells us that Samson loved Delilah, but it never says that she truly loved him back.

Watching the movie (and reading this book), I found myself wondering if Samson was the muscular "brute" that we picture him as being, that he was some muscle-bound, oafish strongman who is more muscle than brain (the Bible definitely implies he did not use his brain as much as he ought to initially or during that twenty years after he served as a judge). Was he all muscle? Or was he a normal-looking dude who might have had a bit of a paunch (but probably not due to his lifestyle and lack of food, the amount of hard labor it took to survive) whose strength came exclusively from the Spirit of the Lord? I think picturing him as physically strong takes away from what God could and did do through him when Samson was empowered by God's Spirit. I like to think of him as being a bit scrawny in nature who has to fully rely upon God and God's power in order to perform the feats of strength that he performs. If God prefers to use our weaknesses for His glory, it seems reasonable to think that Samson was physically weak. The biggest issue with my theory is that Samson is recorded as easily breaking the seven fresh cords/bowstrings and the batch of new ropes that Delilah used to bind him; nowhere does it say that the Spirit of the Lord came upon him and gave him the strength to break these bonds. So I am probably wrong about Samson's physique and personal physical strength, but it is still something fun to periodically ponder. (I still find it funny that the Bible says she pestered him so much day after day that Samson's soul was "annoyed to death" (NASB) / "sick to death of it" (NIV), hahahah! Poor guy! And yet he still loved her!)

I was pleasantly surprised by this book, that I found myself enjoying it more than anticipated. Yes, it takes some liberties with the biblical account, but the novelization is based on a movie and not the biblical account. Even though, there are some distinct differences between the book and the movie as well (which is to be expected). Be that as it may, I am glad I took a chance and read it.

[Tracy Hall · Rating 3 out of 5]

To be honest, I lost interest about half way through and couldn't get myself to finish it

[Keaton Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This really made samsons story come to life. Loved it.