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Lions of Judea #1
The Rise of the Maccabees
The amazing story of the son of the priests who became a warrior & warlord
Jerusalem, 180 BCE. For 800 years the Zadokite priesthood has led the Jewish People. But the ancient world is changing. Without, Rome is rising, becoming the super power of the world. Within, a power struggle inside the House of Zadok is a golden opportunity for interlopers, who seek to unseat them from the throne. The delicate balance which has allowed the Jewish Nation to survive in this age of Empires is threatened.
On the background of these tumultuous times, Judah, scion of a minor priestly lineage, comes of age in Judea. While experiencing love, friendship, and conflict he slowly transforms into the warrior and leader his people are waiting for.
Fascinating Historical Novel about Judah the Maccabee, who led the ancient Israelis to a brave rebellion against the Seleucid Empire. A gripping glimpse into the heart of the dramatic events that took place in the Land of Israel before and during the Maccabee Rebellion.
Jerusalem, 180 BCE. For 800 years the Zadokite priesthood has led the Jewish People. But the ancient world is changing. Without, Rome is rising, becoming the super power of the world. Within, a power struggle inside the House of Zadok is a golden opportunity for interlopers, who seek to unseat them from the throne. The delicate balance which has allowed the Jewish Nation to survive in this age of Empires is threatened.
On the background of these tumultuous times, Judah, scion of a minor priestly lineage, comes of age in Judea. While experiencing love, friendship, and conflict he slowly transforms into the warrior and leader his people are waiting for.
Fascinating Historical Novel about Judah the Maccabee, who led the ancient Israelis to a brave rebellion against the Seleucid Empire. A gripping glimpse into the heart of the dramatic events that took place in the Land of Israel before and during the Maccabee Rebellion.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2020
626 people are currently reading
468 people want to read
About the author
Amit Arad
6 books15 followersIn 2008, I came across an article about the Judean Desert scrolls and was amazed to understand that I did not know the truth about Judaism in the period of pre-Christianity. This discovery led me to an in-depth study of the period, which evolved into the understanding of the Maccabees Rebellion and the creation of the Hasmonean kingdom that dominated the land of Israel for a hundred years, and later on the performance of Christianity on the one hand and rabbinical Judaism on the other.
As a keen fan of historical novels and films based on historical novels, it was clear to me that it was the right way to tell and spread the story. The result was the historical novel series "The Lions of Judea", and in between, I composed "The Experiment," a short and sweet novel that illustrates the slippery slope toward the future.
I was born in 1967 in Israel. In my youth, I trained in various martial art styles. Following my military service, I became a martial arts coach. Later when I become a writer, I found this knowledge valuable incorporating my martial arts expertise into my books.
I graduated from Tel Aviv University with degrees in law, Economics and MBA, started working as a lawyer, a profession I practice until today.
I'm married with four children, living near Tel Aviv in Israel.
As a keen fan of historical novels and films based on historical novels, it was clear to me that it was the right way to tell and spread the story. The result was the historical novel series "The Lions of Judea", and in between, I composed "The Experiment," a short and sweet novel that illustrates the slippery slope toward the future.
I was born in 1967 in Israel. In my youth, I trained in various martial art styles. Following my military service, I became a martial arts coach. Later when I become a writer, I found this knowledge valuable incorporating my martial arts expertise into my books.
I graduated from Tel Aviv University with degrees in law, Economics and MBA, started working as a lawyer, a profession I practice until today.
I'm married with four children, living near Tel Aviv in Israel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
June 26, 2019
An engaging and fascinating historical tale...
Author Amit Arad weaves a powerful historical tale with fascinating twists and turns that will easily captivate the reader from the first page to the last. The author paints a dramatic and riveting tale ‘of one of the most important and most dramatic periods in the history of Judaism and the Jewish People.’ In addition, the characters are drawn with great credibility and conviction. It’s a fast-paced novel that will have you spellbound from the opening chapter.
The book description gives an intriguing preview: ‘Jerusalem, 180 BCE. For 800 years the Zadokite priesthood has led the Jewish People. But the world is changing. Without, Rome is rising, crushing the other powers of the ancient world beneath it. Within, a power struggle inside the House of Zadok is a golden opportunity for interlopers, who seek to unseat them from the throne. The delicate balance which has allowed the Jewish Nation to survive in this age of Empires is threatened.
On the background of these tumultuous times, Judah, scion of a minor priestly lineage, comes of age in Judea. While experiencing love, friendship, and conflict he slowly transforms into the warrior and leader his people are waiting for.
This is the incredible story of Matityahu the Priest, Judah Maccabee and his brothers, and the Hellenizer Eupolemus. Together, they embark on a struggle for the survival of the Jewish people against the powerful Seleucid Empire.’
Now, if that’s not enough to whet your appetite, I don’t know what will. But if you want to find out what happens, you’ll just have to turn the pages for yourself! However, I will say it was well worth the read. It’s my first time reading this author and I must say I was very impressed.
THE RISE OF THE MACCABEES had every element a good story should have. An interesting plot, attention to detail, but best of all fleshed out, well-written and well-rounded character development. There’s an abundance of well-illustrated scenes that make you feel like you are right there in the story, and that’s something I really look for in a good book.
It’s one of those stories that come along once in a while that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader!
I’ll be looking forward to reading more from Amit Arad in the future. I would highly recommend this book. A well-deserved five stars from me.
Author Amit Arad weaves a powerful historical tale with fascinating twists and turns that will easily captivate the reader from the first page to the last. The author paints a dramatic and riveting tale ‘of one of the most important and most dramatic periods in the history of Judaism and the Jewish People.’ In addition, the characters are drawn with great credibility and conviction. It’s a fast-paced novel that will have you spellbound from the opening chapter.
The book description gives an intriguing preview: ‘Jerusalem, 180 BCE. For 800 years the Zadokite priesthood has led the Jewish People. But the world is changing. Without, Rome is rising, crushing the other powers of the ancient world beneath it. Within, a power struggle inside the House of Zadok is a golden opportunity for interlopers, who seek to unseat them from the throne. The delicate balance which has allowed the Jewish Nation to survive in this age of Empires is threatened.
On the background of these tumultuous times, Judah, scion of a minor priestly lineage, comes of age in Judea. While experiencing love, friendship, and conflict he slowly transforms into the warrior and leader his people are waiting for.
This is the incredible story of Matityahu the Priest, Judah Maccabee and his brothers, and the Hellenizer Eupolemus. Together, they embark on a struggle for the survival of the Jewish people against the powerful Seleucid Empire.’
Now, if that’s not enough to whet your appetite, I don’t know what will. But if you want to find out what happens, you’ll just have to turn the pages for yourself! However, I will say it was well worth the read. It’s my first time reading this author and I must say I was very impressed.
THE RISE OF THE MACCABEES had every element a good story should have. An interesting plot, attention to detail, but best of all fleshed out, well-written and well-rounded character development. There’s an abundance of well-illustrated scenes that make you feel like you are right there in the story, and that’s something I really look for in a good book.
It’s one of those stories that come along once in a while that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader!
I’ll be looking forward to reading more from Amit Arad in the future. I would highly recommend this book. A well-deserved five stars from me.
September 26, 2020
Rec'd digital copy through #GoodreadsGiveaway.
Thank-you Mr. Arad for extending this giveaway offer.
My review is entirely independent.
I love books that dig in and add clarity to events that are often glossed over or continuously mis-interpreted for political expediency. I knew enough of Jewish/Christian history to be able to place the uprising of the Maccabees and a few key events. I did not, however, stop to think of how complex the events of the time were, nor their enduring impact on the world.
For anyone wanting to delve into the time before the advent of Christ, this is a must read. Especially, as the books of the Maccabees are not included in Christian Bibles.
Arad does an outstanding job of writing about something he is an expert in: Jewish-military history. He brings not only regional familiarity, but also historical perspective. He deftly handles events that often elicit strong emotional reactions; gathering the various threads together and weaving them into a fabulous account of what probably transpired during the Seleucid occupation. This allows the reader to gain the persective needed to see not only the personal events happening among the Jews of Jerusalem c 170 BCE; but, also a wider geo-political understanding of the major players.
While Arad does take liberties with some aspects of his character development; overall, he has stayed true to the pertinent details of what happened and the likelihood of how individuals would have felt or responded. Most of the characters were real; and although there is definitely a bias towards Judaism, each represents a different perspective on the social, cultural and political influences. This was definitely well-researched by a expert ~ but written as a labor of love.
It is a breath-taking read. It reminded me of classical movies like the Exodus and Ben-Hur but with a greater emphasis on military and political manoevering. About half-way through, I bought book #2, The Maccabee Rebellion: A Biblical Historical Novel. Even knowing the outcome, I had to find out what happens to all the characters. The prose is so well-translated and the events are brought to vivid life.
Regardless of religious or political beliefs, Arad's book highlights the profound impact the region's historical past still has on the present. With Passover and Easter around the corner, I'd highly recommend this read.
Thank-you Mr. Arad for extending this giveaway offer.
My review is entirely independent.
I love books that dig in and add clarity to events that are often glossed over or continuously mis-interpreted for political expediency. I knew enough of Jewish/Christian history to be able to place the uprising of the Maccabees and a few key events. I did not, however, stop to think of how complex the events of the time were, nor their enduring impact on the world.
For anyone wanting to delve into the time before the advent of Christ, this is a must read. Especially, as the books of the Maccabees are not included in Christian Bibles.
Arad does an outstanding job of writing about something he is an expert in: Jewish-military history. He brings not only regional familiarity, but also historical perspective. He deftly handles events that often elicit strong emotional reactions; gathering the various threads together and weaving them into a fabulous account of what probably transpired during the Seleucid occupation. This allows the reader to gain the persective needed to see not only the personal events happening among the Jews of Jerusalem c 170 BCE; but, also a wider geo-political understanding of the major players.
While Arad does take liberties with some aspects of his character development; overall, he has stayed true to the pertinent details of what happened and the likelihood of how individuals would have felt or responded. Most of the characters were real; and although there is definitely a bias towards Judaism, each represents a different perspective on the social, cultural and political influences. This was definitely well-researched by a expert ~ but written as a labor of love.
It is a breath-taking read. It reminded me of classical movies like the Exodus and Ben-Hur but with a greater emphasis on military and political manoevering. About half-way through, I bought book #2, The Maccabee Rebellion: A Biblical Historical Novel. Even knowing the outcome, I had to find out what happens to all the characters. The prose is so well-translated and the events are brought to vivid life.
Regardless of religious or political beliefs, Arad's book highlights the profound impact the region's historical past still has on the present. With Passover and Easter around the corner, I'd highly recommend this read.
July 4, 2019
History realistically resurrected
Israeli author Amit Arad earned degrees in economics and law from Tel Aviv University and runs a law office, having successfully established an online company – WhiteMaps. His participation in martial arts, both achieving Black Belt status and as a trainer, contributed not only to his physical fitness, but also to his fascination with battle history. THE RISE OF THE MACCABEES is Book 1 of his lauded LIONS OF JUDEA series.
The fascination of this history-based book is reflected through time. Composer George Frideric Handel composed an oratorio – JUDAS MACCABEUS – to honor of this era and the hero, and other authors have focused on aspects of this important period in Jewish history, but few have exhibited the dedication to the facts in the manner of Amit Arad. He opens his book with a meticulous description of the history of the second millennium BCE and the Twelve Tribes of Israel, and before each chronological section he lists the ’cast of players’ – a most helpful tool for the reader.
But the impact of Amit’s writing is enhanced by his prose. He brings history to life, as is demonstrated in the opening chapter: ‘Kratos examined the boy standing by his side with af¬fection. Tiamos, he thought, is wise beyond his years. It is a pleasure to teach such a student. When you are educating highborn sons such as this one, you are shaping the future with your own two hands. When they grow up they will lead and influence the world. Kratos was not a typical tutor. He did not lecture them much, preferring to teach in the Socratic method, asking them question after question. I am not as wise as Socrates and I will never be as famous as Plato, he would typically say, but I am a Helene tutor and I will proudly follow in their path.’
The scope of the book is vast, but is well condensed by the author’s synopsis – ‘Jerusalem, 180 BCE. For 800 years the Zadokite priesthood has led the Jewish People. But the world is changing. Without, Rome is rising, crushing the other powers of the ancient world beneath it. Within, a power struggle inside the House of Zadok is a golden opportunity for interlopers, who seek to unseat them from the throne. The delicate balance which has allowed the Jewish Nation to survive in this age of Empires is threatened. On the background of these tumultuous times, Judah, scion of a minor priestly lineage, comes of age in Judea. While experiencing love, friendship, and conflict he slowly transforms into the warrior and leader his people are waiting for. This is the incredible story of Matityahu the Priest, Judah Maccabee and his brothers, and the Hellenizer Eupolemus. Together, they embark on a struggle for the survival of the Jewish people against the powerful Seleucid Empire.’
As Amit has stated, this book covers ‘the ancient Jewish War of Independence, and the internal revolution in pre-rabbinical Judaism, a revolution with profound impact on all monotheistic religions and the human culture.’ A very fine combination of research and sensitive literary depiction, this is a powerful book.
Israeli author Amit Arad earned degrees in economics and law from Tel Aviv University and runs a law office, having successfully established an online company – WhiteMaps. His participation in martial arts, both achieving Black Belt status and as a trainer, contributed not only to his physical fitness, but also to his fascination with battle history. THE RISE OF THE MACCABEES is Book 1 of his lauded LIONS OF JUDEA series.
The fascination of this history-based book is reflected through time. Composer George Frideric Handel composed an oratorio – JUDAS MACCABEUS – to honor of this era and the hero, and other authors have focused on aspects of this important period in Jewish history, but few have exhibited the dedication to the facts in the manner of Amit Arad. He opens his book with a meticulous description of the history of the second millennium BCE and the Twelve Tribes of Israel, and before each chronological section he lists the ’cast of players’ – a most helpful tool for the reader.
But the impact of Amit’s writing is enhanced by his prose. He brings history to life, as is demonstrated in the opening chapter: ‘Kratos examined the boy standing by his side with af¬fection. Tiamos, he thought, is wise beyond his years. It is a pleasure to teach such a student. When you are educating highborn sons such as this one, you are shaping the future with your own two hands. When they grow up they will lead and influence the world. Kratos was not a typical tutor. He did not lecture them much, preferring to teach in the Socratic method, asking them question after question. I am not as wise as Socrates and I will never be as famous as Plato, he would typically say, but I am a Helene tutor and I will proudly follow in their path.’
The scope of the book is vast, but is well condensed by the author’s synopsis – ‘Jerusalem, 180 BCE. For 800 years the Zadokite priesthood has led the Jewish People. But the world is changing. Without, Rome is rising, crushing the other powers of the ancient world beneath it. Within, a power struggle inside the House of Zadok is a golden opportunity for interlopers, who seek to unseat them from the throne. The delicate balance which has allowed the Jewish Nation to survive in this age of Empires is threatened. On the background of these tumultuous times, Judah, scion of a minor priestly lineage, comes of age in Judea. While experiencing love, friendship, and conflict he slowly transforms into the warrior and leader his people are waiting for. This is the incredible story of Matityahu the Priest, Judah Maccabee and his brothers, and the Hellenizer Eupolemus. Together, they embark on a struggle for the survival of the Jewish people against the powerful Seleucid Empire.’
As Amit has stated, this book covers ‘the ancient Jewish War of Independence, and the internal revolution in pre-rabbinical Judaism, a revolution with profound impact on all monotheistic religions and the human culture.’ A very fine combination of research and sensitive literary depiction, this is a powerful book.
September 16, 2019
Extensively researched, brilliantly told!
This book was very, very well written. I especially appreciated the outline of characters at the beginning of each chapter, which brought clarity to identities and relationships. Given the dizzying amount of research, this was much needed and really helped to guard against confusion. Accordingly, the reader is able to follow the plot with facilitated ease, and immerse within the action and suspense. I was so engaged that I was surprised when the book ended, and quite disappointed. Thank heavens for book 2!! If you enjoy historical fiction, this is a definite must-read!! With rich descriptions and vivid detail, it tells of Judaism and the lives of Jews within an ancient civilization--how they thought felt, lived, died, and especially, persevered. You will thoroughly enjoy it!
This book was very, very well written. I especially appreciated the outline of characters at the beginning of each chapter, which brought clarity to identities and relationships. Given the dizzying amount of research, this was much needed and really helped to guard against confusion. Accordingly, the reader is able to follow the plot with facilitated ease, and immerse within the action and suspense. I was so engaged that I was surprised when the book ended, and quite disappointed. Thank heavens for book 2!! If you enjoy historical fiction, this is a definite must-read!! With rich descriptions and vivid detail, it tells of Judaism and the lives of Jews within an ancient civilization--how they thought felt, lived, died, and especially, persevered. You will thoroughly enjoy it!
July 25, 2022
excellent history
This book presents a detailed account of the times between the testaments. The author has created characters, multi faceted, both likeable and loathsome. Excellent reading
This book presents a detailed account of the times between the testaments. The author has created characters, multi faceted, both likeable and loathsome. Excellent reading
April 8, 2020
I won this ebook in a Goodreads giveaway. It is an accurate historical novel of the start of the rebellion that led to the last time that the Jews ruled in Palestine until 1948. Good story telling with two links to YouTube very short videos showing the model of ancient Jerusalem and a little of the ruins of Qumran which the author believes was contemporary with the Maccabean period. This is an easy way to lean more about this period. I can hardly wait to read the second book in the series. Recommended read.
March 15, 2022
THE BOOK KEPT MY ATTENTION ALL THROUGH AND EVEN AFTER I FINISHED IT.
A great book. I read it with a commentary and by googling characters and places. It was not a quickly read book because of the depth of the subject. I wanted to understand the characters, places, and events. I've read much on Biblical times but am sadly lacking during the time of the Maccabees. This book greatly helped with my understanding. The characters are fascinating. I look forward to reading other books by this author. I felt that I was back in that terrible time between the Testaments.
A great book. I read it with a commentary and by googling characters and places. It was not a quickly read book because of the depth of the subject. I wanted to understand the characters, places, and events. I've read much on Biblical times but am sadly lacking during the time of the Maccabees. This book greatly helped with my understanding. The characters are fascinating. I look forward to reading other books by this author. I felt that I was back in that terrible time between the Testaments.
October 27, 2020
A historical novel taken from the land of Palestine during the intertestamental period. This was interesting story of that time, and from what I know (and I know very little) helps tell a story of a family, and their friends, during a time of tension and turmoil. This is one of several stories about this period I have read, and there are more that I want to read. This would be a good read for anyone that has an interest in that time period.
June 7, 2022
This book is one of my favorites! I have read the first and second book twice, each time finding something new. This book is very exciting and there is something always happening. These histories is an eye opener for me because I learned in so many ways why Christians should never give up! These warriors kept the faith! I cried as read and laugh some too. It is not at all a funny story, I love the way the author told the story. This book is an very good read.
October 12, 2019
Wonderful book
I did not know anything about this time in the history of Israel and I like very much the footnotes at the end of each chapter and the YouTube videos that the author uses to put the reader in areas he is writing about. I have gotten the second book and I definitely will read the third book in the series.
I did not know anything about this time in the history of Israel and I like very much the footnotes at the end of each chapter and the YouTube videos that the author uses to put the reader in areas he is writing about. I have gotten the second book and I definitely will read the third book in the series.
September 17, 2020
Beautifully written. Highly recommend
March 28, 2021
Good history.
Good history of rebellion but character development is shallow. Recommend for educational reading but not able to grab you with plot development.
Good history of rebellion but character development is shallow. Recommend for educational reading but not able to grab you with plot development.
March 23, 2024
I am a Catholic and knew that there were seven more books in the Catholic Bible than in the Protestant Bible. But, it wasn't until I retired and started attending a Bible study at our church when I discovered Maccabees 1 and 2. This was exciting since I had never read them.
Each of us had slightly different translations. The class was set up where, our priest would give us some background and he would begin reading a few verses and pass it on to the next person. You could read a few verses if you wanted to or pass to the next person. After completing a chapter we would discuss its implications, and historical significance especially as it related to the Catholic church and its teaching/practices. The biggest challenge for me were the names of people and places with the various languages of the time being Hebrew/Aramaic, Greek and Roman, plus following the biblical text. It was all I could do to keep up with the events of each chapter.
Because I enjoy historical fiction, I was happy to see that a book had been written to give a plainer more understandable account of how the Maccabees rose to power. However, the Jewish, Latin/Roman, and Greek names of people and places still gave me a bit of a problem. After having read this novel, I want to now reread the biblical accounts in Maccabees 1 and 2 to see how closely the author, Amit Arad, came to capturing the true history.
Like all authors of historical fiction, they take some liberties with the events and people associated with the history. Amit Arad used actual historical people and events and added additional characters in order to fill-in and tie together his version of the story. I liked how at the beginning of each chapter he would list major and minor characters with an asterisk beside each historical name. This helped a great deal with following the plot and reminding the reader of who was who.
I felt that the story flowed, descriptions of regions were great and the power struggles between priestly families, kings and common traditional Jewish people gave the reader something to sink their teeth into.
The Maccabees were a very traditional Jewish family lead by their priest and patriarch Matityahu. Following in his footsteps are his five sons and one daughter: Yohanan, Simon, Judah, Hannah, Eleazar, and Johnathan. It is Judah that wants to become a warrior and learn the fighting techniques of the pankration, a Greek method of wrestling, and martial arts and boxing.. Judah is the one who stands out in my mind the most from reading the biblical texts Maccabees 1 and 2. He learns the techniques of fighting along with a friend of his, Eupolemus. After training, Eupolemus goes off to join a Roman legion. There is a lot of the story dedicated to what happens to Eupolemus and I feel that Judah gets lost in the history.
The author, Amit Arad, does bring in a lot of the struggles between the Hellenizes, Jewish families that have adopted the Greek ways and traditions, to the point of brining in Greek statues into the temple. This riles the traditional Jewish people including Matityahu and his family. The division becomes so great that it makes it impossible for traditional Jews to worship as they had for hundreds of years. To complicate matters, powers in Egypt, Rome and surrounding areas change hands. Battles are won and lost but finally the Romans beat the Macedonians strengthening their powers. There is so much history included in the book that a map and an outline would help. It isn't until the end of the book that Judah arises and builds and army to fight their enemies. You have to read the book to find out how all these events intertwine in order to fully appreciate its significance in Jewish history, culture and religion. Just a side note, if you didn't know, it's in Maccabees 1 and 2 where you can learn about the history of how Hanukkah was started.
Since the book ended with Judah and his brothers starting their rebellion, I guess some day I will need to read the second book and reread the biblical text to gain further understanding.
Each of us had slightly different translations. The class was set up where, our priest would give us some background and he would begin reading a few verses and pass it on to the next person. You could read a few verses if you wanted to or pass to the next person. After completing a chapter we would discuss its implications, and historical significance especially as it related to the Catholic church and its teaching/practices. The biggest challenge for me were the names of people and places with the various languages of the time being Hebrew/Aramaic, Greek and Roman, plus following the biblical text. It was all I could do to keep up with the events of each chapter.
Because I enjoy historical fiction, I was happy to see that a book had been written to give a plainer more understandable account of how the Maccabees rose to power. However, the Jewish, Latin/Roman, and Greek names of people and places still gave me a bit of a problem. After having read this novel, I want to now reread the biblical accounts in Maccabees 1 and 2 to see how closely the author, Amit Arad, came to capturing the true history.
Like all authors of historical fiction, they take some liberties with the events and people associated with the history. Amit Arad used actual historical people and events and added additional characters in order to fill-in and tie together his version of the story. I liked how at the beginning of each chapter he would list major and minor characters with an asterisk beside each historical name. This helped a great deal with following the plot and reminding the reader of who was who.
I felt that the story flowed, descriptions of regions were great and the power struggles between priestly families, kings and common traditional Jewish people gave the reader something to sink their teeth into.
The Maccabees were a very traditional Jewish family lead by their priest and patriarch Matityahu. Following in his footsteps are his five sons and one daughter: Yohanan, Simon, Judah, Hannah, Eleazar, and Johnathan. It is Judah that wants to become a warrior and learn the fighting techniques of the pankration, a Greek method of wrestling, and martial arts and boxing.. Judah is the one who stands out in my mind the most from reading the biblical texts Maccabees 1 and 2. He learns the techniques of fighting along with a friend of his, Eupolemus. After training, Eupolemus goes off to join a Roman legion. There is a lot of the story dedicated to what happens to Eupolemus and I feel that Judah gets lost in the history.
The author, Amit Arad, does bring in a lot of the struggles between the Hellenizes, Jewish families that have adopted the Greek ways and traditions, to the point of brining in Greek statues into the temple. This riles the traditional Jewish people including Matityahu and his family. The division becomes so great that it makes it impossible for traditional Jews to worship as they had for hundreds of years. To complicate matters, powers in Egypt, Rome and surrounding areas change hands. Battles are won and lost but finally the Romans beat the Macedonians strengthening their powers. There is so much history included in the book that a map and an outline would help. It isn't until the end of the book that Judah arises and builds and army to fight their enemies. You have to read the book to find out how all these events intertwine in order to fully appreciate its significance in Jewish history, culture and religion. Just a side note, if you didn't know, it's in Maccabees 1 and 2 where you can learn about the history of how Hanukkah was started.
Since the book ended with Judah and his brothers starting their rebellion, I guess some day I will need to read the second book and reread the biblical text to gain further understanding.
June 3, 2021
I am pretty familiar with my Bible. And yet, there are plenty of stories that make me scratch my head and wonder why God didn't choose to include a few more details. I have a hard time keeping all those Old Testament kings and kingdoms sorted. And prophecies can get a little confusing. Then, there's this whole period of time when God got quiet for about 500 years. What was going on then?
I really appreciate authors who research the historical records well and create a story that fleshes out what may have been going on during Biblical times--things that aid my understanding of Biblical stories and Truth. This book did just that.
I really appreciate authors who research the historical records well and create a story that fleshes out what may have been going on during Biblical times--things that aid my understanding of Biblical stories and Truth. This book did just that.
March 26, 2020
Excellent historic fiction.
This book adds enough to historic record to make it a compelling story without getting caught up in too much romantic intrigue with extraneous characters. The author's fluid writing style helps the story flow. Interaction with the major powers of the day give the book good solid perspective.
I recommend this book to lovers of historic fiction, especially of the ancient world.
I received this book from Goodreads in exchange for an honest review, and I do appreciate it. I will download the 2nd book in the series.
This book adds enough to historic record to make it a compelling story without getting caught up in too much romantic intrigue with extraneous characters. The author's fluid writing style helps the story flow. Interaction with the major powers of the day give the book good solid perspective.
I recommend this book to lovers of historic fiction, especially of the ancient world.
I received this book from Goodreads in exchange for an honest review, and I do appreciate it. I will download the 2nd book in the series.
April 18, 2021
Appreciate the research required to write this fine historical novel!
I knew very little of the people and events during this time, so was intrigued. Once I figured out that the events described in the prologue came many years after, and familiarized myself with the characters and places mentioned, I thoroughly appreciated the research required! I am eager to read the continuing story.
I knew very little of the people and events during this time, so was intrigued. Once I figured out that the events described in the prologue came many years after, and familiarized myself with the characters and places mentioned, I thoroughly appreciated the research required! I am eager to read the continuing story.
September 27, 2022
Fantastic read.
Going into fall and Chanukah coming up in a couple of months I decided this might be worthwhile. Much to my surprise I found this to be a fantastic read. I love the way each chapter begins with a bit of history and also footnotes through out the chapter to increase one's knowledge of the background. I told a friend this is like reading history that has breathed life into itself. Not a fast read but a truly mesmerizing read for those who love history.
Going into fall and Chanukah coming up in a couple of months I decided this might be worthwhile. Much to my surprise I found this to be a fantastic read. I love the way each chapter begins with a bit of history and also footnotes through out the chapter to increase one's knowledge of the background. I told a friend this is like reading history that has breathed life into itself. Not a fast read but a truly mesmerizing read for those who love history.
October 23, 2023
This is the first of two books that describe the Maccabee rebellion during the Seleucid takeover of Israel in inter-testament times. Arad weaves an interesting tale based in historical fact to describe the development of a small but vibrant group of Jews who fight against the Hellenization of their culture and religion.
Putting aside a number of anachronistic expressions, this is a good, captivating read of an important epoch of the Jewish people.
Putting aside a number of anachronistic expressions, this is a good, captivating read of an important epoch of the Jewish people.
July 17, 2025
Just What I Wanted
I wanted to learn more about the Maccabees, but most of the books I tried about the Inter-testamentary period were dry and hard to follow. This fictionalized account gave me a much better understanding of the complexities and the atrocities of this time period. Well done.
I wanted to learn more about the Maccabees, but most of the books I tried about the Inter-testamentary period were dry and hard to follow. This fictionalized account gave me a much better understanding of the complexities and the atrocities of this time period. Well done.
April 23, 2020
I won this ebook in a Goodreads Giveaway. It is a very accurate novel about the start of the Maccabean insurrection agai.nst the Seleucid empire about BCE. This was the last time the Jews ruled in Palestine until 1948. It includes links to two short videos of okaces in Oakestue,
January 26, 2021
The Rise of the Maccabees by Amit Arad is book 1 of Lions of Judea series.Amit Arad weaves a historical tale using using the Maccabees and historical events. It feels like you are right there.It is well written and characters are well developed.
I received a copy thru a Goodreads Giveaway.
I received a copy thru a Goodreads Giveaway.
November 27, 2022
Great Book!
Inspired me to dig deeper into the history behind these events and so relevant to our modern times and the dangers of becoming just like the world in thought, deed and motive instead of being like Christ.
Inspired me to dig deeper into the history behind these events and so relevant to our modern times and the dangers of becoming just like the world in thought, deed and motive instead of being like Christ.
August 30, 2020
Very easy read loved it
September 10, 2020
Not good history or adventure.
November 13, 2021
I am really interested in this era of history, but I found that this story really should have been more interesting and captivating than it was.
February 22, 2022
Excellent Read
It doesn't matter if you are a believer or not, this is an exciting historical story. Keeps you on the edge of your seat. Looking forward to the next book.
It doesn't matter if you are a believer or not, this is an exciting historical story. Keeps you on the edge of your seat. Looking forward to the next book.
December 10, 2022
so we’ll written the story breathes
I love how real and fictional characters weave a historical story to life. The maccabees still live and breathe. Amazing!
I love how real and fictional characters weave a historical story to life. The maccabees still live and breathe. Amazing!
November 30, 2023
Maybe its a setup Novel for the next. The story is one I am interested in, and know almost nothing about; but this one didn’t develop characters enough to learn anything (in my uneducated opinion)
December 16, 2023
good histoical fiction
While I had heard of the Macabees I wasnt familiar with them. This book is good about mixing historical fact into the plot
While I had heard of the Macabees I wasnt familiar with them. This book is good about mixing historical fact into the plot
November 13, 2024
Great read. Enjoyed the character experience approach to historical events.
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