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Heroes & History #3
Ciocanul hughenoților
Ciocanul hughenoților este cartea a treia din seria pentru adolescenți Eroi și Istorie.
Douglas Bond este scriitor, profesor și compozitor de imnuri. A scris peste 25 de cărți de ficțiune istorică, biografii, lecturi devoționale și teologie practică. Două dintre cărțile lui au fost premiate cu Grace Award. Douglas Bond predă istoria Bisericii și cursuri de scriere creativă în învățământul superior. De asemenea, organizează tururi istorice în Europa. Este căsătorit cu Cheryl din 1983 și sunt binecuvântați cu 6 copii.
COLECȚIA FACE A BOOK
Întâlnește-te cu o carte! Fă cunoștință cu eroi memorabili. Îi vei îndrăgi și vei vrea să semeni cu ei.
Vei simți cu ei. Îi vei admira pentru curaj și pentru perseverență.
Vei învăța împreună cu ei să deosebești binele de rău. Te vei descoperi pe tine.
Fiecare carte este o oglindă. Privește-te în ea!
Douglas Bond este scriitor, profesor și compozitor de imnuri. A scris peste 25 de cărți de ficțiune istorică, biografii, lecturi devoționale și teologie practică. Două dintre cărțile lui au fost premiate cu Grace Award. Douglas Bond predă istoria Bisericii și cursuri de scriere creativă în învățământul superior. De asemenea, organizează tururi istorice în Europa. Este căsătorit cu Cheryl din 1983 și sunt binecuvântați cu 6 copii.
COLECȚIA FACE A BOOK
Întâlnește-te cu o carte! Fă cunoștință cu eroi memorabili. Îi vei îndrăgi și vei vrea să semeni cu ei.
Vei simți cu ei. Îi vei admira pentru curaj și pentru perseverență.
Vei învăța împreună cu ei să deosebești binele de rău. Te vei descoperi pe tine.
Fiecare carte este o oglindă. Privește-te în ea!
275 pages, Paperback
First published May 15, 2015
About the author
Douglas Bond
76 books236 followersDouglas Bond, author of more than thirty books--several now in Dutch, Portuguese, Romanian, and Korean--is father of six, and grandfather of eleven--and counting--is Director for the Oxford Creative Writing Master Class and the Carolina Creative Writing Master Class, two-time Grace Award book finalist, adjunct instructor in Church history, recent advisory member to the national committee for Reformed University Fellowship, award-winning teacher, speaker at conferences, and leader of Church history tours in Europe.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
September 8, 2017
Before reading this book, I may have heard of the Huguenots before, but I certainly didn't quite know exactly what they stood for that made them famous in the annals of history. Now that I learned more about the Reformation era, I am overwhelmed with the bold faith that the Huguenots exhibited. Wow, these people were strong! Plus, by reading all about it in a fictional setting, I was immersed into an intriguing storyline...
So, I learned some amazing history. Like how it would have been sedition to the king to sing psalms or recite holy scripture in French, instead of Latin. So many thousands of Huguenots died in the cause of the Reformation; a total extermination decree was issued against them in 1569. Who were these people? Peaceful men from families of “merchants, shipbuilders, stonecutters, farmers, fishermen, blacksmiths.”
There's a particular character who really stood out to me, and I thought I should mention it here. Dearest Sophie. I thought of her more as a “background” character for quite a while, and wasn't expecting much from her, with all the other events going on, but I was certainly surprised by her actions. She knocks in out of the park in this novel... What bravery this girl has!!
Douglas Bond has a fascinating vocabulary. In addition to him being able to filter SO MUCH history into a dramatic story, he also knows how to insert such interesting words, some of which I had use “ye olde dictionary” for. I should mention though, there are some chapters in the book which seem long-winded, and the reader takes in a lot of historical accounts at once (I was extremely pleased with the short chapters to quickly break up the harder reading). The government and politics play a huge part in the story, there are lots of speeches to read through too. I'm only mentioning this to say that this book is not “fluffy” or light historical fiction; it's deep and has a lot of information to share with you. That's fine though, because I was completely engrossed in it.
I think this is a serious story that Christians need to hear. It may have happened in France a few hundred years ago, but we need to know how people of our faith were persecuted for what they believed in. There are elements of history that ring true to modern times; we can find some relatable bits, like how in their times, teaching in school about Reformed Christianity is an act of treason (and was punishable by death, my goodness). At least we're not in a religious war right now, but these things really happened.
“Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the Lord. Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!”
- Chapter 23, Hammer of the Huguenots
Christian families especially will love this novel, the strong and bold type of faith it displays, and the history it imparts on its readers.
There is revival, victory, and hope to be found in Hammer of the Huguenots.
Thanks to NetGalley for a free copy of this book; I was not required to post a review.
So, I learned some amazing history. Like how it would have been sedition to the king to sing psalms or recite holy scripture in French, instead of Latin. So many thousands of Huguenots died in the cause of the Reformation; a total extermination decree was issued against them in 1569. Who were these people? Peaceful men from families of “merchants, shipbuilders, stonecutters, farmers, fishermen, blacksmiths.”
There's a particular character who really stood out to me, and I thought I should mention it here. Dearest Sophie. I thought of her more as a “background” character for quite a while, and wasn't expecting much from her, with all the other events going on, but I was certainly surprised by her actions. She knocks in out of the park in this novel... What bravery this girl has!!
Douglas Bond has a fascinating vocabulary. In addition to him being able to filter SO MUCH history into a dramatic story, he also knows how to insert such interesting words, some of which I had use “ye olde dictionary” for. I should mention though, there are some chapters in the book which seem long-winded, and the reader takes in a lot of historical accounts at once (I was extremely pleased with the short chapters to quickly break up the harder reading). The government and politics play a huge part in the story, there are lots of speeches to read through too. I'm only mentioning this to say that this book is not “fluffy” or light historical fiction; it's deep and has a lot of information to share with you. That's fine though, because I was completely engrossed in it.
I think this is a serious story that Christians need to hear. It may have happened in France a few hundred years ago, but we need to know how people of our faith were persecuted for what they believed in. There are elements of history that ring true to modern times; we can find some relatable bits, like how in their times, teaching in school about Reformed Christianity is an act of treason (and was punishable by death, my goodness). At least we're not in a religious war right now, but these things really happened.
“Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the Lord. Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!”
- Chapter 23, Hammer of the Huguenots
Christian families especially will love this novel, the strong and bold type of faith it displays, and the history it imparts on its readers.
There is revival, victory, and hope to be found in Hammer of the Huguenots.
Thanks to NetGalley for a free copy of this book; I was not required to post a review.
August 28, 2020
Douglas Bond is such a fantastic author, especially for teens/young adults looking for books with more substance than your typical YA read! 'Hammer of the Huguenots' is a historical fiction novel about a time period and people group that isn't well known by most people, but that is both adventurous and tragic. Rather than reading a textbook trying to remember all the facts and figures, this book manages to weave a huge amount of accurate historical knowledge into a captivating and memorable story. The characters are engaging and really bring the story to life; the political and religious information becomes interesting and necessary as you invest in their personal journeys. I highly recommend this book!
May 8, 2015
Douglas Bond writes books I like. That seems straightforward enough. I have found it consistently true, that time I spend with a work of his is time well spent. Whether it is a biography, a work of practical theology, or a novel; I have yet to be disappointed by one of his works. His newest novel, Hammer of the Huguenots, is the third volume of his Heroes and History series. I bought the other two when P&R had a sale a few months back, but I have not had a chance to read them. That is a truth that must quickly change.
Hammer of the Huguenots is a work of historical fiction that follows Philippe; a young, Roman Catholic man, as he witnesses the French Catholic persecution of Reformed Christians around him and the effects of the Gospel ministry of Pierre Viret. What drew me to this book, beyond enjoying how Bond writes, is its historical context. I am still a novice to the genre of fiction, and I am still highly selective on those works with which I will spend time. If you are not a book about a quest for a ring, hopping through a wardrobe, or solving crimes with your buddy named Watson, I have had little time for you. But historical fiction I can justify. Sure, the stories are not “history,” but the truths they convey are historical. And the context and many of the characters and many of the events are all historical. So, I can tell myself that I am not reading for entertainment or fun or any of those silly reasons. Nope, I am learning!
But then here is the kicker. Hammer of the Huguenots is a work that engages the reader. I can tell myself I am not reading for entertainment, but then I have to deal with the fact that I am being entertained. And I can tell myself that I am not reading to enjoy the catharsis of vicarious experience, but then I have to acknowledge how this book causes such a visceral, emotional, personal reaction. Bond writes in a way that causes an emotional response. You find yourself feeling the anxiety, fear, and sadness; relief, peace, and joy.
History is good. Storytelling is good. Better than anything is the Gospel. And Douglas Bond would agree. Hammer of the Huguenots makes that clear. Bond focuses on the Gospel throughout this book. The Gospel is presented in many ways and in multiple contexts. We see the true Gospel presented in contrast to Rome’s doctrine of “faith +.” We see the Gospel of Christ’s all-sufficiency and vicarious atonement through preaching, teaching, and the response of the characters. Watching Philippe confronted with the Gospel time and again and watching him struggle with the implications of his beliefs is more than good literature; it is convicting, challenging, and encouraging.
I greatly enjoyed this work. If you want to read some good fiction, get a dose of history, and be overwhelmed by the Gospel and its implications, Hammer of the Huguenots will prove to be an investment that pays great dividends.
I received a review copy from the publisher.
Hammer of the Huguenots is a work of historical fiction that follows Philippe; a young, Roman Catholic man, as he witnesses the French Catholic persecution of Reformed Christians around him and the effects of the Gospel ministry of Pierre Viret. What drew me to this book, beyond enjoying how Bond writes, is its historical context. I am still a novice to the genre of fiction, and I am still highly selective on those works with which I will spend time. If you are not a book about a quest for a ring, hopping through a wardrobe, or solving crimes with your buddy named Watson, I have had little time for you. But historical fiction I can justify. Sure, the stories are not “history,” but the truths they convey are historical. And the context and many of the characters and many of the events are all historical. So, I can tell myself that I am not reading for entertainment or fun or any of those silly reasons. Nope, I am learning!
But then here is the kicker. Hammer of the Huguenots is a work that engages the reader. I can tell myself I am not reading for entertainment, but then I have to deal with the fact that I am being entertained. And I can tell myself that I am not reading to enjoy the catharsis of vicarious experience, but then I have to acknowledge how this book causes such a visceral, emotional, personal reaction. Bond writes in a way that causes an emotional response. You find yourself feeling the anxiety, fear, and sadness; relief, peace, and joy.
History is good. Storytelling is good. Better than anything is the Gospel. And Douglas Bond would agree. Hammer of the Huguenots makes that clear. Bond focuses on the Gospel throughout this book. The Gospel is presented in many ways and in multiple contexts. We see the true Gospel presented in contrast to Rome’s doctrine of “faith +.” We see the Gospel of Christ’s all-sufficiency and vicarious atonement through preaching, teaching, and the response of the characters. Watching Philippe confronted with the Gospel time and again and watching him struggle with the implications of his beliefs is more than good literature; it is convicting, challenging, and encouraging.
I greatly enjoyed this work. If you want to read some good fiction, get a dose of history, and be overwhelmed by the Gospel and its implications, Hammer of the Huguenots will prove to be an investment that pays great dividends.
I received a review copy from the publisher.
February 22, 2016
The story started slowly, probably because Bond was developing the characters and giving some historical background to the setting. The pace picked up after the third chapter. It is a mix of history, adventure, and theology. Since there are some preachers in the book, you will find excerpts of Huguenot preaching. It fits in naturally and allows Mr. Bond to bring in Huguenot beliefs. The wars of religion in France were pretty nasty. Catherine de Medici, La Serpente , comes off as duplicitous and ruthless as do a few other Roman Catholics. However, it is documented history, and at times the truth is hard to swallow for some folks, especially if it unfavorably displays their traditions.
Mr. Bond writes a good story. This book was not as engaging as some others of his, but it was a good story, and I recommend it for young folks, boys particularly.
Mr. Bond writes a good story. This book was not as engaging as some others of his, but it was a good story, and I recommend it for young folks, boys particularly.
June 28, 2026
Call it Reformed YA Historical Fiction? It's loaded with more actual history (names, dates, etc.) than a typical HF would carry, but he pulls it off well, and balances the occasional page of didactic ballast by following up with another vivid action scene. It's a pretty effective way to learn history.
One of the highlights for me is the inclusion of full-orbed Reformation theology, parts of real sermons, prayers, letters, and psalms of the reformers (like Calvin, Beza, and Viret), and their focus on the gospel. This is an unashamed evangelistic book, as well as an unflinching look at the horror of religious warfare. Both the theology and history as well as the level of violence depicted in the sufferings of the Huguenots make this more of a book for teens than for kids, though I did read it aloud to my preteen kids, skipping a few lines here and there.
I might take issue with overuse of adverbs or other literary nit-picking, but the forest is good enough to not complain of a few too many trees.
Since there's a trace of Huguenot DNA in my lineage, this story was extra meaningful to me. It was neat to say to my kids after the epilogue about Huguenots fleeing to other countries, "and that's part of the reason you're here today." It's so long ago, and yet not...
One of the highlights for me is the inclusion of full-orbed Reformation theology, parts of real sermons, prayers, letters, and psalms of the reformers (like Calvin, Beza, and Viret), and their focus on the gospel. This is an unashamed evangelistic book, as well as an unflinching look at the horror of religious warfare. Both the theology and history as well as the level of violence depicted in the sufferings of the Huguenots make this more of a book for teens than for kids, though I did read it aloud to my preteen kids, skipping a few lines here and there.
I might take issue with overuse of adverbs or other literary nit-picking, but the forest is good enough to not complain of a few too many trees.
Since there's a trace of Huguenot DNA in my lineage, this story was extra meaningful to me. It was neat to say to my kids after the epilogue about Huguenots fleeing to other countries, "and that's part of the reason you're here today." It's so long ago, and yet not...
September 13, 2020
The history of the Church Militant is fraught with betrayal, horror, blood, and triumph—eternal triumph, and even earthly ones too. Hammer of the Huguenots is yet another Bond book that illustrates all this in a way that will imprint upon your memory and come back to you like a steady hand on your shoulder when you need to be reminded that there is a cloud of witnesses behind and before you.
This was my 10th BondBooks read—so that should testify how much I love Douglas Bond's storytelling. And Hammer of the Huguenots was right on par with the other 9—which should say something of how good it had to be!
Very beneficial reading—and delightful reading, at that.
This was my 10th BondBooks read—so that should testify how much I love Douglas Bond's storytelling. And Hammer of the Huguenots was right on par with the other 9—which should say something of how good it had to be!
Very beneficial reading—and delightful reading, at that.
March 5, 2022
Excellent book, especially for those who are interested in the history. I came to this book expecting it to be light on history and geared to an adolescent audience, but I found that it was quite rich in history and did not lack for substantial material.
December 15, 2022
This was good and very informative but the story was slightly slow and I felt Bond tried to include slightly too much in the way of historical facts. Still an interesting, informative read and very inspiring. O to have the courage of faith of the Huguenots.
June 15, 2020
The Lord is my Shepherd, I'll not want
He makes me down to lie
In pastures green; He leadeth me
The quiet waters by.
He makes me down to lie
In pastures green; He leadeth me
The quiet waters by.
June 24, 2024
Heartfelt History
Learned so much about my ancestors! Fast paced, factual and tragic. And sad to know this type of hate continues across the world.
Learned so much about my ancestors! Fast paced, factual and tragic. And sad to know this type of hate continues across the world.
February 8, 2024
I can honestly say that this book surprised me, in a good way. I found it to be very engaging and action packed, while the historical details weren’t very overwhelming. It was the first time I’ve truly read about the French Reformation and the Huguenots, and, as I’d been curious about them in the past, I found the book to be very enlightening and leaving me wanting to learn more.
June 29, 2015
Orphaned Philippe is not altogether certain he sides with his Protestant friends. And with the amount of bloodshed occurring in Huguenot communities, well, let's just say that the future doesn't look to bright no matter what they believe. But one cannot straddle a fence for too long, and before lone Philippe will have to make a decision about where he stands amidst the religious persecution that had taken France by storm.
I was introduced to Douglas Bond in middle school through his Mr. Pipes books. I remember enjoying them so much that when the school year was over and then several years later I reread them. For young readers his books are excellent tools in educating those who wish to know more about certain areas of history. Hammer of the Huguenots is no different. Without a doubt I would have enjoyed this book in middle school as well (though not it feels a little slow for this reader). It's filled with loveable characters, real struggles and thought-provoking decisions. If you are considering this book, go for it - you might learn something new.
DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” we would like to note that we received an electronic copy of “Hammer of the Huguenots” provided by the publishers, P & R Publishing, in exchange for our
reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com
I was introduced to Douglas Bond in middle school through his Mr. Pipes books. I remember enjoying them so much that when the school year was over and then several years later I reread them. For young readers his books are excellent tools in educating those who wish to know more about certain areas of history. Hammer of the Huguenots is no different. Without a doubt I would have enjoyed this book in middle school as well (though not it feels a little slow for this reader). It's filled with loveable characters, real struggles and thought-provoking decisions. If you are considering this book, go for it - you might learn something new.
DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” we would like to note that we received an electronic copy of “Hammer of the Huguenots” provided by the publishers, P & R Publishing, in exchange for our
reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com
June 27, 2016
Plot Summary:
Set during the mid 1500's, France is determined to maintain the maxim "One king, one law, one religion" - the one religion being Catholicism. But no matter how hard the Pope or Catherine de Medici try, the faithful teachings of the Reformers are carried throughout all France and their followers are called Huguenots. Our protagonist, Philippe, a lonely orphan, is good friends with two of the children of one such Huguenot family: Maurice and his sister Sophia. Their ways bewilder but draw Philippe as he observes their lifestyle. When open war is declared against the Huguenots, will Philippe join their cause?
Violence:
Several descriptions are given of the atrocities meeted out to Huguenots by Catholic forces. They are, however, discreet. Nevertheless, I wouldn't give this book to a child under the age of 10 or 11.
Romance:
Sophia is described as a beautiful young lady and Philippe takes notice of her on several occasions. He however forces himself to think of her as a sister. Thus, the possibility of a romantic relationship between them is left unexplored and open-ended, for which I'm grateful.
Set during the mid 1500's, France is determined to maintain the maxim "One king, one law, one religion" - the one religion being Catholicism. But no matter how hard the Pope or Catherine de Medici try, the faithful teachings of the Reformers are carried throughout all France and their followers are called Huguenots. Our protagonist, Philippe, a lonely orphan, is good friends with two of the children of one such Huguenot family: Maurice and his sister Sophia. Their ways bewilder but draw Philippe as he observes their lifestyle. When open war is declared against the Huguenots, will Philippe join their cause?
Violence:
Several descriptions are given of the atrocities meeted out to Huguenots by Catholic forces. They are, however, discreet. Nevertheless, I wouldn't give this book to a child under the age of 10 or 11.
Romance:
Sophia is described as a beautiful young lady and Philippe takes notice of her on several occasions. He however forces himself to think of her as a sister. Thus, the possibility of a romantic relationship between them is left unexplored and open-ended, for which I'm grateful.
April 5, 2016
Hammer of the Huguenotsby Douglas Bond
P & R Publishing
Christian
Pub Date 18 May 2015
Set in France during the era of the Huguenots (Mid to late Sixteenth Century) Philippe a young man is groWing confused by all the changes taking place. Churches are broken into and fighting insues. When the King writes a new edict which ends the one “religion edict”.
Phillipe is shocked when he overhears the Cardinal of Lorraine plotting to murder the Huguenots. Despite all the danger and the Huguenots being murdered by the hundreds, even thousands Pastor Viret continues to preach the gospel despite all the dangers.
Will Phillipe open his eyes to what’s happening around him and fight for the injustice that is happening all around him.
I give this book five out of five Stars
Happy Reading
P & R Publishing
Christian
Pub Date 18 May 2015
Set in France during the era of the Huguenots (Mid to late Sixteenth Century) Philippe a young man is groWing confused by all the changes taking place. Churches are broken into and fighting insues. When the King writes a new edict which ends the one “religion edict”.
Phillipe is shocked when he overhears the Cardinal of Lorraine plotting to murder the Huguenots. Despite all the danger and the Huguenots being murdered by the hundreds, even thousands Pastor Viret continues to preach the gospel despite all the dangers.
Will Phillipe open his eyes to what’s happening around him and fight for the injustice that is happening all around him.
I give this book five out of five Stars
Happy Reading
October 10, 2015
I was initially very disappointed when I received this book that it was aimed for youth - which may have been my fault for not researching it enough before hand. However, once I started reading the book, I have to say that I really enjoyed the read and most of all learning about the life and times of the Huguenots.
In the end, I came away far more educated and aware of a time that affected my forebears and that of my husband.
In the end, I came away far more educated and aware of a time that affected my forebears and that of my husband.
July 20, 2015
Hammer of the Huguenots is such a wonderful book! Mr. Bond did an excellent job of making the main character relatable, as well as giving each character a very distinct personality. The history was carefully woven through, therefore avoiding long narrations making the reader zone out. This is an amazing book that I enjoyed immensely!
August 5, 2016
Accurate portrayal of the history of the Huguenot massacres throughout the 16th and 17th centuries. Believable characters and well-described locations and events (although somewhat predicable) earned it's higher rating.
September 11, 2015
A youth historical fiction book that is worth the time to read and rediscover the history of the Huguenots. I thought it is was one of his better books.
Read
October 15, 2021Didn’t finish the book. It was boring.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews