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Empire of Israel #1
A King to Rule
Two men are on a collision course. They live in a world of vendettas, assassinations and endless war. Welcome to the Middle East during the Iron Age. The Philistines murdered Nathan's Father and God did nothing. His tribe was nearly exterminated and God did nothing. Invaders plunder his land and still God does nothing. So, when a kingdom is declared in Israel, a vengeful Nathan pledges himself to King Saul, the father of his boyhood friend Jonathan. Nathan is prepared to act…even if God is not. Achish is a prince, the son of one of the five Kings of Philistia who rule the Egyptian province of Canaan in Pharaoh’s name. Yet, Egypt grows weak and the time draws near for Philistia to forge an empire of its own. But Achish knows his allies will soon be his greatest rivals. So he casts his eyes on Israel with its rich lands, burgeoning population, and ineffectual leaders. If he can harness Israel’s resources, Achish would dominate first Philistia, and later all of Canaan. Achish believes a man makes his own miracles. However, it is dangerous to mistake God’s patience for apathy. God laughs at the schemes of men. He enjoys bending their plans to fit His own. "A King to Rule" is the first book in the "Empire of Israel" series. This exciting Biblical saga continues in the second book in the series, "A King to Fight".
493 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 22, 2018
678 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
December 8, 2019
Excellent book
This book is about the early history of Israel and the people who made up the tribes and clans. It was very interesting how the author quoted passages from the Old Testament at the beginning of each chapter and then “fleshing out” those passages into a whole chapter of the story. I have already downloaded the other two books of the series.
This book is about the early history of Israel and the people who made up the tribes and clans. It was very interesting how the author quoted passages from the Old Testament at the beginning of each chapter and then “fleshing out” those passages into a whole chapter of the story. I have already downloaded the other two books of the series.
June 13, 2024
Pretty good book. There is scripture and then the author does a good job telling an unknown story to coinicide with the scripture
August 25, 2024
Dale Ellis has done a very good job of bringing to the surface many of the potential underlying elements that characterised the times and the people who are described in the books of Samuel.
I find that the approach portrayed in the series is quite good regarding the human side of 'what might have been happening on the background and how' while at the same time it is a bit weak on weaving in the Divine part.
Specifically, the parts regarding God's Word and His Vision being revealed, the Spirit coming upon people, etc are not on the forefront of the story.
I totally understand Dale's approach, namely looking at things from a perspective of a person living in those days that would possibly only have a limited understanding on God, very sporadic encounters with His actions in the midst of Israel while at the same time having to deal on a day to day basis with loads of very real vices that stem out from man's heart.
I would totally recommend the book and the series to people who enjoy Biblical Historical Fiction.
It is probably the best series I have read and enjoyed so far.
(I want to read 'the Davidic Chronicles later').
God bless you Dale Ellis.
I find that the approach portrayed in the series is quite good regarding the human side of 'what might have been happening on the background and how' while at the same time it is a bit weak on weaving in the Divine part.
Specifically, the parts regarding God's Word and His Vision being revealed, the Spirit coming upon people, etc are not on the forefront of the story.
I totally understand Dale's approach, namely looking at things from a perspective of a person living in those days that would possibly only have a limited understanding on God, very sporadic encounters with His actions in the midst of Israel while at the same time having to deal on a day to day basis with loads of very real vices that stem out from man's heart.
I would totally recommend the book and the series to people who enjoy Biblical Historical Fiction.
It is probably the best series I have read and enjoyed so far.
(I want to read 'the Davidic Chronicles later').
God bless you Dale Ellis.
September 11, 2021
Mr. Ellis writes a Biblical based book on the time period during which Saul reigned and Jonathan, his son, along with his best friend Nathan, along with Hebrew forces were repeatedly involved in battles against the surrounding non-Hebrew peoples. I loved the way he introduced each chapter with the Bibilical scriptures that related to his historical fiction. He fleshed out each of the battles giving a much clearer idea of what the strengths and weaknesses were of the Hebrews and the opposing forces. It made this section of the Old Testament much more interesting and alive as well as showing how much better the opposing forces were often prepared. and why the Hebrews needed to depend on God's words to them and His plan for them.
July 7, 2019
Great
Great read. But I would love to edit future books for you. Hundreds of errors were distracting. Excellent story telling.
Great read. But I would love to edit future books for you. Hundreds of errors were distracting. Excellent story telling.
April 12, 2023
Fascinating Historical Account Of Israel’s First King
Thoroughly enjoyed this story as it runs parallel to my Bible Reading. Literary license is taken but is most respectful of the scripture while painting a realistic narrative around the biblical account of Saul’s ascension to Kingship and his fall from favor. Told through the eyes of Nathan, Johnathan’s best friend and protector (pre-David) the tale that Dale Ellis weaves to explain how a man can through poor company become prideful and corrupted it profound, astute, and believable. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. My only criticism is that the editing for sentence structure was poorly done in several places. It is not a reflection on the story or the writer, but should be re-released with a more professional edit.
Thoroughly enjoyed this story as it runs parallel to my Bible Reading. Literary license is taken but is most respectful of the scripture while painting a realistic narrative around the biblical account of Saul’s ascension to Kingship and his fall from favor. Told through the eyes of Nathan, Johnathan’s best friend and protector (pre-David) the tale that Dale Ellis weaves to explain how a man can through poor company become prideful and corrupted it profound, astute, and believable. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. My only criticism is that the editing for sentence structure was poorly done in several places. It is not a reflection on the story or the writer, but should be re-released with a more professional edit.
February 19, 2019
Great story from a unique perspective!
This book is so insightful into the military strategy that could lead to an otherwise perplexing series of events in biblical history. The humanity of the characters is very realistic, and certainly fleshes out these important figures in a way that is both entertaining and insightful. It is refreshing to hear this story from the perspective of more minor biblical figures, and I love that Nathan appears as the prince's armor bearer! There are many typos, some of which actually detract from the story, but overall this was beautifully written!
This book is so insightful into the military strategy that could lead to an otherwise perplexing series of events in biblical history. The humanity of the characters is very realistic, and certainly fleshes out these important figures in a way that is both entertaining and insightful. It is refreshing to hear this story from the perspective of more minor biblical figures, and I love that Nathan appears as the prince's armor bearer! There are many typos, some of which actually detract from the story, but overall this was beautifully written!
October 29, 2019
Biblical History 4.5 stars
I enjoyed this book as it uses passages from the Bible blended in to tell the story. It also brings Samuel, Saul, Jonathan and Nathan to life and allows them to be flawed human beings telling their stories in a way that Psalms and the book of Samuel can't.
I took off a half star for editing errors, such as spelling names differently or using the wrong name to call someone when they aren't in the scene or being referred to. It's not difficult to know which character it is meant to be, but it can be distracting.
I really did enjoy the book, and have downloaded the next in the series.
I enjoyed this book as it uses passages from the Bible blended in to tell the story. It also brings Samuel, Saul, Jonathan and Nathan to life and allows them to be flawed human beings telling their stories in a way that Psalms and the book of Samuel can't.
I took off a half star for editing errors, such as spelling names differently or using the wrong name to call someone when they aren't in the scene or being referred to. It's not difficult to know which character it is meant to be, but it can be distracting.
I really did enjoy the book, and have downloaded the next in the series.
February 17, 2020
I really liked the book. The use of the bible passages as a basis for the text was nicely done. The lighthearted trash talking relationship of Jonathon and Nathan was an interesting twist. The description of all the characters was very well done. I really empathized with and understood the fear Saul must have felt being thrust into the tole of king and dealing with so many different levels of education, culture, and personality. The alignment with bible history and the telling of the evolution of the kingdom of Israel and the challenges they must have faced was fascinating. I enjoyed this enough to want to read more and am looking forward to reading the other books in the series
February 29, 2020
enjoyed
I greatly enjoyed Mr Ellis' book. I was please of the writings on battle plans and the thoughtfulness on the personal moments as well. Perfect example of how to make the stories of the Bible more personal and in an everyday style of writing. Great Job. Those who enjoy military type books will enjoy reading this one.
From a females view point I was not so sure I would like it but I really did find myself sneaking away to read a chapter throughout the day. The non gory details not focused on so much made it a nice read. Thanks
I greatly enjoyed Mr Ellis' book. I was please of the writings on battle plans and the thoughtfulness on the personal moments as well. Perfect example of how to make the stories of the Bible more personal and in an everyday style of writing. Great Job. Those who enjoy military type books will enjoy reading this one.
From a females view point I was not so sure I would like it but I really did find myself sneaking away to read a chapter throughout the day. The non gory details not focused on so much made it a nice read. Thanks
December 20, 2018
Entertaining and educational
Enjoyed reading this book. I took my time - which I don't always do. But I didn't want to miss anything. It was a very enjoyable Bible study to me. I like being able to have a back story and see a person's life - imagine what they really were like. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn more about the story of Saul and am looking forward to the next installment. Hopefully it gets here quickly.
Enjoyed reading this book. I took my time - which I don't always do. But I didn't want to miss anything. It was a very enjoyable Bible study to me. I like being able to have a back story and see a person's life - imagine what they really were like. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn more about the story of Saul and am looking forward to the next installment. Hopefully it gets here quickly.
February 7, 2020
surprisingly good novel. This first book re-tell the story from the Bible (1 Samuel 7 through 14). The author never claim this as historical book as he took liberty to fill up gaps where the Bible didnt go to the detail. But the story telling, the characters and all the suspense really make this book to be very enjoyable. And to add on that, now I can appreciate the Bible story even more and understand why Saul is such a flawed king. Now on to book 2...a young hero will appear
April 22, 2020
Got book 2
I liked it enough to keep reading the series. The bible verses introducing the chapter are a nice reminder that while these characters are fiction and/or factual but embellished, the time was real, the struggles were real, the wars were real, the culture was real. I do wish Nathan were really real though, he is my favorite character. My mind's eye could truly see the battle scenes. Looking forward to reading the next book.
I liked it enough to keep reading the series. The bible verses introducing the chapter are a nice reminder that while these characters are fiction and/or factual but embellished, the time was real, the struggles were real, the wars were real, the culture was real. I do wish Nathan were really real though, he is my favorite character. My mind's eye could truly see the battle scenes. Looking forward to reading the next book.
July 18, 2020
Empire of a King: A King to Rule is actually a very good book. However, the numerous typos and errors due to lack of editing affect the reading experience somewhat. A word left out or in and an “ed” left off affect the reading experience, but the book is still very readable. It became almost a challenge to see how many errors I could find. This did not stop me from reading though, as the story kept my attention and I thought it was well written. The content of his books are definitely worth reading.
March 30, 2022
Extremely Wise
This book showed how smart the author is..I marveled at the schemes and war tactics throughout. A bit bloody for me-although I know these times were just that. More details but almost taken straight from the Old Testament. Not for the weak for sure-a man would definitely enjoy this. An enjoyable read and true to the One True God, way to go Mr. Ellis! (Remind me not to get on your bad side…)
This book showed how smart the author is..I marveled at the schemes and war tactics throughout. A bit bloody for me-although I know these times were just that. More details but almost taken straight from the Old Testament. Not for the weak for sure-a man would definitely enjoy this. An enjoyable read and true to the One True God, way to go Mr. Ellis! (Remind me not to get on your bad side…)
December 4, 2022
Amazing scenes between the lines
This was my first Ellis book and I was piqued because I love biblical fiction. Not just seeing, but feeling "what might have been" has made the historical Jonathan and his armor bearer more human to me than ever before. Seeing through the eyes of a warrior, Ellis describes how battles were fought, soldiers were bolstered, and loyalty was maintained. It wasn't a life for sissies. Good work, Ellis! I'm eagerly anticipating Vol 2!
This was my first Ellis book and I was piqued because I love biblical fiction. Not just seeing, but feeling "what might have been" has made the historical Jonathan and his armor bearer more human to me than ever before. Seeing through the eyes of a warrior, Ellis describes how battles were fought, soldiers were bolstered, and loyalty was maintained. It wasn't a life for sissies. Good work, Ellis! I'm eagerly anticipating Vol 2!
November 17, 2019
This book was a fascinating tale of the early days of King Saul’s reign. It well illustrates the difficulties of setting up Israel’s monarchy and the struggles against Philistia. An incredibly action-packed work of Biblical fiction, the novel also does a great job of staying faithful to the Biblical narrative.
February 3, 2024
King Saul
The Israelites were whining for a king, and Samuel finally agreed to make Saul, a man from the tribe of Benjamin, a king over all of them. However, unfortunately, King Saul did not follow the ways of the Lord and caused a lot of trouble for the people. His son, Jonathan, and Jonathan's best friend, Nathan, got into a lot of adventures fighting the Philistines.
The Israelites were whining for a king, and Samuel finally agreed to make Saul, a man from the tribe of Benjamin, a king over all of them. However, unfortunately, King Saul did not follow the ways of the Lord and caused a lot of trouble for the people. His son, Jonathan, and Jonathan's best friend, Nathan, got into a lot of adventures fighting the Philistines.
October 28, 2024
The Beginning of Israel’s Kingdom
Great research went into the writing of this book. Lots of Israelites history. Intriguing story. Saul’s flaws were revealed. Jonathan’s leadership skills led him to be honored by his men. It was a hard period of time with jealousy, fighting, trickery & death.
Great research went into the writing of this book. Lots of Israelites history. Intriguing story. Saul’s flaws were revealed. Jonathan’s leadership skills led him to be honored by his men. It was a hard period of time with jealousy, fighting, trickery & death.
December 22, 2025
Over all a good book
The beginning chapters were hard to read meeting the characters and their role in it all. I found that the interdiction was necessary. The thing is it makes me want to go back into the bible and reread the story in there. I hope the rest of the series holds up
The beginning chapters were hard to read meeting the characters and their role in it all. I found that the interdiction was necessary. The thing is it makes me want to go back into the bible and reread the story in there. I hope the rest of the series holds up
April 18, 2020
It takes you back to the early days of Israel great read thanks
for the Bible's quotations good reference points to bring the story to life hard to believe they went to war with sticks and clubs
for the Bible's quotations good reference points to bring the story to life hard to believe they went to war with sticks and clubs
July 5, 2020
Very good
I highly enjoyed reading this book. I especially like the inclusion of Scripture at the beginning of each chapter alluding to the dialogue to follow. I am excited to read the next book in this series.
I highly enjoyed reading this book. I especially like the inclusion of Scripture at the beginning of each chapter alluding to the dialogue to follow. I am excited to read the next book in this series.
October 28, 2020
A King to Rule
A very intriguing historical Bible story. Gave this a 5 star rating because it held my attention so well. Would definitely recommend this book to all my friends.
A very intriguing historical Bible story. Gave this a 5 star rating because it held my attention so well. Would definitely recommend this book to all my friends.
November 11, 2020
Very Well Done
This is a 5 Star story! It follows the narrative of the Scriptures very close. It just dramatized the Truth of God's Word!
I am really looking forward to book #2 in this series! Thank you, Judith Reynolds
This is a 5 Star story! It follows the narrative of the Scriptures very close. It just dramatized the Truth of God's Word!
I am really looking forward to book #2 in this series! Thank you, Judith Reynolds
December 27, 2020
Good read
Author did a great job filling in the gaps in the biblical account making the characters relatable and creating a clear picture of what life was like in ancient Israel during this period.
Author did a great job filling in the gaps in the biblical account making the characters relatable and creating a clear picture of what life was like in ancient Israel during this period.
March 31, 2021
Unfinished
A good book with contain at least a finish to the story. This seems to be the popular thing to do, but I don’t like reading only a part of a story and having to buy 2, or 3 books to finish.
A good book with contain at least a finish to the story. This seems to be the popular thing to do, but I don’t like reading only a part of a story and having to buy 2, or 3 books to finish.
March 31, 2019
I just did not care for this book at all and I normally enjoy reading about Israel in its early days.
December 20, 2019
Two thumbs up
A tome to consder carefully. I appreciate authors that take a risk and use their talents to enlighten us of what could easily be the way things were. Thank you Dale
A tome to consder carefully. I appreciate authors that take a risk and use their talents to enlighten us of what could easily be the way things were. Thank you Dale
March 24, 2021
Life giving!
The way the characters are plucked out of a few simple passages and transformed into realistic personalities, really brings this story to life! I can’t wait to read the rest
The way the characters are plucked out of a few simple passages and transformed into realistic personalities, really brings this story to life! I can’t wait to read the rest
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August 8, 2021A great read imagining how life was during those days. I loved the scriptures at the beginning of each chapter, they tied the story together like a tapestry.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews