Daniel: Prophet at the King's Command, a Novel

by Terry Thompson

Daniel was just a teenager when he was taken captive by the Babylonians, never to see his family again. As Daniel and his friends strive to make the best of their unusual circumstances--slaves in the king's court--they also fight to honor their vows to the one true God amidst a people who worship only false gods. During his lifetime, Daniel saw the fulfillment of God's promises, prophesied of the Israelites future as well as ours, and led pagan kings to God. From slave to the highest position in the king's court, Daniel shows how God can use an ordinary person to do extraordinary things. Terry Thompson brings the book of Daniel to life with extensive research into the lives and customs of the Hebrew people, and he even opens up the discussion for the prophecies that have yet to be fulfilled. This book is a complement to an intensive study on Daniel and the God Who is still faithful to protect His people.

Genres: Christian, Biblical Fiction

430 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2021

Reviews

[ArynTheLibraryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daniel, Prophet at the King's Command is a very detailed, formal story. Maybe academic is the best word. At first, it felt too formal or academic for fiction. But once I'd gotten to 10%, I was so drawn into the story that I couldn't put it down.

As much as I've loved other CF Daniel stories, and I have, this one captured my heart in a very unique way. To see Daniel's faithfulness continually challenged, and his ongoing precarious situation, and yet his attitude of "God has us here for a reason, and we need to do our absolute best, giving the enemy no grounds for their complaints" is incredibly humbling, and encouraging too.

The combination of a present day professor teaching a willing student about the prophesy and fulfillment of Daniel truly enhanced the story without cumbersome narrative. It shows how applicable it is still today very neatly.

One of the beauties of this kind of story is in helping us fit the Bible into the timeline. Pointing out the other prophets near and far, and who their target audience was, among other things, was so cool!

There were a couple of phrases in the last (present day) chapter that felt too informal and jarring for the context of the rest of the book, which was odd to me, but that's neither here nor there.

I received a copy of this book from the author, and chose to review it here. All thoughts are my own. I would recommend it to all, from mid-teens up.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was definitely an informative and educational read {aka, listen}. I’d like to read it again in print to grasp it a little better - there was much info! But overall, I enjoyed it. The narrator used some sound effects during the chapter changes which made it feel like more of a production than just listening to an audiobook.

[HAL · Rating 5 out of 5]

7 stars for history & prophecy in action packed fiction

As a moderate student of ancient history and Biblical studies I think Thompson did a remarkable job delivering accuracy within both areas. The problem I see is that he blends history with fictional very well, I expect to see some of the minor characters among Daniel's life to be in heaven! This prophet, who never prophesied in Israel, lead a most remarkable life and Thompson skilfully weaves an engrossing novel that is hard to put down. If only those moderately familiar in biblical readings could truly know many parts of the Bible are also engaging.
Any age can read this novel. It is long for the young reader. The amount of historical research and knowledge that the author so deftly blends into this novel is staggering and yet so enjoyable in understanding Daniel's life, dedication and ministry. I enjoyed reading his life in chronological order instead of the familiar split of biographical/prophetic theme found in biblical text. My one regret is that there were only 5 stars to give. Okay, one more regret - it ended! I've got to find more from this author!

[Aalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will never view the story of Daniel the same way again. The Bible does not go into the details of how Nebuchadnezzar took the best young men of Judah. Of course, this is the just the author's opinion of how it might have happened. We don't know what really happened.
The first 9 chapters are well-written (not that the rest of the book isn't, I just found that I liked the first 9 chapters better). Once I got to chapter 10, I found that the 'diet standoff' was not lining up with how the Bible describes it. But, this is Biblical fiction, after all, so I don't have a huge problem with it. I would have enjoyed this book more if it had been closer to the Bible's description at key parts, such as the dreams of Nebuchadnezzar, the furnace, the lions den, etc. There were also some events that I think should not have been included (like in chapter 8, I did not need to know when all the men were stopping to bathe in the river, and were all looking at who was and wasn't circumcised, but that's all I'll say on that. I also did not need to know about Bulludhu's 'advice' to Amytis).
Overall, this book is pretty good, although I don't recommend for anyone younger than 15.

[Sherril Schroeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daniel, Prophet at the King’s Command is a book that took me into and through the lives of four boys/men who lived in obedience to fulfilling God’s purpose for their lives. Choosing by faith through dreams and visions to stand strong with Daniel as their leader and encourager. Prayer to Yahweh/God was their firm foundation on which their victories were won through perilous and almost impossible times. This book will build your faith as you read and almost experience the battle they endured. It is so appropriate for today, and should prepare and encourage us for possible days ahead. You won’t want to lay this book down once you begin reading it! I would describe this book as: Encouraging! Exciting! And a must read! Sherril Schroeder, Hot Springs, AR

[Dave White · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Terry Thompson has written a truly unique historical novel that is not only an entertaining and gripping work of fiction but is also very enlightening and inspirational. The author’s extensive historical research that brings to life the setting and culture of the life of Daniel drew me completely into the story. The interpretation of Daniel’s prophecies by the modern-day professor is a crucial and timely message for our day. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will be passing it along to family and friends.”

David White

[DEBBIE AGUILAR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mind Blowing!! Get. Ready!

I feel if you are reading this book The Timing Is From Our Lord!! Time to open your eyes to see what Is coming and be prepared for it , The Book of Daniel written from him telling his life was So mind opening , the Research & Comprehension of scripture must of toke a life time. Pastor Roberts has said "If you don't study Revelations you won't truly Know Jesus Christ" The Book of Daniel and Revelation go hand in hand. I loved this book and I am greatful to Terry Thompson for giving it to the world, at such a time as this., The World Needs Hope for The Future but most of All !! Yahweh Our Lord and King !! Be Ready His Coming Soon !!!

[Alice Wallace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is ideal for the person who enjoys historical fiction but has a real desire to understand the biblical book of Daniel, including the end-time prophecies. In a very accessible form, it provides much academic material, not just biblical theology, but also secular history and knowledge of the culture during the time Daniel lived. A la "The Chosen," it helps the reader to see Daniel, his friends, and the entire exiled Jewish state as real people (since they were!) and helps us understand better what their life was like. The book could definitely be used as the basis for an in-depth Bible study.

[John W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terry Thompson’s novel, Daniel, Prophet At The King’s Command, keeps the integrity of historical facts yet wraps a story around them that entertains while educating. Daniel, a giant in our Christian faith becomes someone we can relate to and appreciate on a human level. I learned more about Daniel and his contemporaries than I could have from a number of text books and commentaries. I would recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in the Babylonian exile and the prophecies of Daniel that have so accurately occurred and those that are yet to come.

[Mary Currey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A historically-based novel that is the exciting & enlightening story of Daniel’s life of unwavering faithfulness & steadfast obedience to Yahweh through extraordinary circumstances. You’ll realize how much God’s prophesied judgment on the nation of Judah parallels our country today and also realize – as Daniel did – that even the devoted faithful in Judah did not escape God’s wrath and judgment directed at their entire nation. “The same God who loves His people passionately is also the God of perfect judgment.” It’s a “must read”!

[Russell Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a timely and insightful book, considering the times in which we are living. Should Christians obey the government? Daniel seemed to face this dilemma daily and faithfully responded with, “…. we must not resist them, except when their directions violate the commands of Yahweh, in which case we will not compromise our beliefs”. A great read, either to enhance your knowledge or just for pleasure.

[Nancy Davies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Better understanding of the end times.

This book was my far the best I have read Concerning Daniel's end times. Terry Thompson has made understanding The prophecies that were given to Daniel Easier to understand. I also enjoyed learning more about The Jewish people And how they obeyed and how they disobeyed God's commandments. I certainly recommend this book to all people who are interested in learning more and reading all of Daniel in the bible!

[Doris Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best books I have read. Terry Thompson makes the biblical times of Daniel come alive. I have a clearer understanding of Daniel and His prophecies than ever before. Terry writes in a way as to make you feel as if you are walking right alongside Daniel, through his trials, during the captivity of himself and the Hebrew people in Babylon. I would highly recommend this book to believers and non believers alike to have a better understanding of the life and prophecies of Daniel.

[Bess Bergey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A phenomenal read! I almost gave up in the first few chapters by the scholarly tilt of the book, but am so glad I didn't! This book gave me a new appreciation for God's faithfulness as seen in Daniel's time and Daniel's faithfulness despite the many difficulties he faced. It excites me to see how God worked through Daniel in tumultuous times, and know He continues to work through His faithful children today.

[Jennifer DeMaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting read that held my attention and answered many question. Although I was already familiar with the story of Daniel in the Bible, this novel glides between then, about 500 years BC, and present day This enabled the author to weave in the interpretations of Daniel's many prophecies. The author brought real depth of character to the players and an astounding knowledge of actual history and what life was like in that time period.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully woven novel

Must read for those not us who love historical biblical novels. Terry puts Daniel in such a relatable way that makes the whole book of Daniel easy to understand. He also shares such a great view of life as we can follow in the way Daniel interacted with others.

[Diana Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like prophecy and enjoy native speaking this book is the best. Even though it is story telling, and it uses two main characters (student and professor) - you read the scripture in a story telling way through the characters in the Book of Daniel. The professor through his conversation with the student explains the history and prophetic meaning. I used this book along side my study of the Book of Daniel. I highly-highly recommend it.

[Trahlyta Crawford]

Daniel

The story follows closely with scripture,and It is very detailed and realistic. Daniel portrayed active living faith from his first encounter. And his friends were of the same spirit,believing before seeing. I think this story was extraordinary, because it was true.

[Matt Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author did an excellent job of defining the characters and their roles. There were just enough people in the story where you did not get lost in who was who.

[Ted Blackwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

wonderful book

The author does a great job of taking scripture and making it into a great story. It takes the book of Daniel and makes it easier to understand. The conversations between Kyle and the professor are really good.

[DAVID · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wholeheartedly recommend. Takes you on a fun and fascinating journey where prophecy comes alive! I couldn't put it down. What a great read. Extremely insightful. A must read.

[Ruth Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well done!

Follows Gods word but told so carefully to attract the young adult and the skeptic. I couldn't stop reading it and will recommend it to friends!

[Jessica Fitzsimmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gave me an entirely new view of Daniel and what he might have gone through. It has caused me to reevaluate how I approach life and communicate with God.