The Jealous Son

by Michele Chynoweth

"Chynoweth manages to make the story feel incredibly visceral. She shows a talent for taking small details from the original Bible story and turning them into valuable plot developments…the key to the novel's success is the author's ability to provide deep insights into her characters' tumultuous mental states. A bold, tragic, and emotionally exploratory drama." - KIRKUS REVIEWS Banned from their home in the Navajo Nation as a result of their disobedience, Eliza and Alex Trellis build a new life for themselves and their two sons. Although life is a daily struggle, the boys grow up healthy and happy―until the oldest son Cameron starts to become envious of his younger brother and bandmate Austin, who gets everything he wants―fame, fortune and all that goes with it. Jealous that his brother seems to unfairly gain the attention of their parents, the accolades of the world and the love of his girl, Cameron seeks to find justice once and for all. A modern-day take on the story of Cain and Abel, The Jealous Son portrays what happens when envy goes too far.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Contemporary, Biblical Fiction

Paperback

First published August 13, 2019

About the author

Michele Chynoweth is an award-winning inspirational fiction author who believes that the stories in the Bible's Old Testament are full of wonderful messages from God - but that they're usually hard to read - so she retells them in a contemporary way so today's readers can relate, get God's message and be entertained by their suspense, drama and romance. She is a former news reporter and advertising agency owner, graduate of the University of Notre Dame, and lives with her family in her native Maryland.

Reviews

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting take on the story of the Fall and of Cain and Abel. The author's choice to make them members of the Navajo was an excellent, as it made the story more intriguing for me. Throughout the book I got a strong feeling for the hardships that were suffered by the characters, especially Eliza and Cameron. Eliza was definitely the central character, and I sympathized with her throughout. Cameron elicited sympathy too, even as he became more consumed with anger and jealousy, though I was surprised the story didn't include the infamous Mark of Cain. The ending was bittersweet, and a reminder that even if not everything works out, there is always hope. The author did a great job, and I personally would love it if she wrote a novel based on the story of David, Bathsheba, and Absalom.

[Anne Rightler · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Jealous Son is an interesting book by Michele Chynoweth. Based on the familiar Biblical account of Cain and Abel the reader pretty much knows where the story is headed and yet the author has fleshed it out and brought into modern-day to bring a powerful message to her readers. The characters are believable and relatable, with their faults and foibles portrayed along with their good points. The story is a well-written yet gritty tale that deals with very real and raw issues of human life especially when envy takes hold of a life. I liked how the author tells the story through the eyes of the mother, Eliza, (as well as Cameron) as it gave insight into the heartbreak of the circumstances that the family went through. I also found the descriptions of the Navajo culture and some of their customs and ceremonies to be fascinating. An enjoyable read.
I won a copy of the book in a contest and I was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

[Candy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twists and turns

Michele carries us on quite a journey with this family. Not on!y is the plot captivating, but we get a vivid tour of various places and customs within the Native American community. The emotional, psychological, and spiritual insights we gain from these pages are eye opening. Lots of life lessons packed into this book.

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her best book yet. I enjoy how the author sets bible stories to today. I quickly became reluctant to put the book down. It does include a fair amount of social issues, but it also shows a couple’s ability to heal and remain joined through tragedies.

[Michele Chynoweth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Jealous Son is an inspirational Christian fiction novel by author Michele Chynoweth. A contemporary take on the story of Cain and Abel.

Wow, this novel had my emotions every which way…tissues are a must. I wasn’t sure what to think of the story, written mostly from the mother’s view, the author deals wondrously with some hard issues.

This was a hard novel for me to read, one minute sailing along, the next setting it aside so I could think about it. Reader beware: there is talk of sex, drugs & alcohol. But, this is also a story of forgiveness.

I do look forward to reading more books by this author. I highly suggest this to be an adult-only book, and it is a stand-alone book.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my! I thought this book was about Cain and Abel (you know, the one instance where the one kills the other?)

But THIS BOOK is way more than about the two brothers! We see the dysfunctional make-up that started with Eliza's (Eve's) own childhood and upbringing! The complexity of family. And the struggle for real healing, coping, forgiving. There's some tough moments ... and I think Chynoweth does a WONDERFUL JOB of bringing the spirit of the first family into modern-day terms.

An absolutely wonderful read!

[Justine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! Sucked me in from the very start and kept me hooked throughout. This story hit on many levels for me. Plus, I am a former Arizona resident and loved when a familiar landmark would be mentioned in the story. This was the first book I've read by this author. I can say I am a fan of her writing style and I will definitely be reading her other books!

[Audra Sanlyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Jealous Son is a beautiful retelling of the story of Cain and Abel. Set in modern times, it brings to light the dangers of favoritism, secrets and complacency. It's a reminder that we leave behind a legacy that will last for generations to come. Whether you've never cracked a Bible, or are an avid theologian, this story proves entertaining and relevant in today's society.

[Stanley McCluskey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed the book and story of how Michele was able to bring the Cain and Abel story into the future. The story line was original and not predictable - not depressing. It was a great read! Each child has their own personality and Michele brought that out in the book. This book will not disappoint you! Purchase it today!

[Alex Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Jealous Son is a powerful and emotional modern retelling of Cain and Abel. Chynoweth masterfully explores jealousy, family tension, and identity through vivid storytelling and deeply human characters. It’s a bold, heartbreaking novel that stayed with me long after I finished reading.

[Cecilia Tomko]

Loved the book! Michele did a wonderful job creating a new narrative from a familiar story. The characters were relatable, the spiraling situation believable and the setting fit perfectly with the Biblical parallel. Can't wait to read more!