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Jonah In the Time of the Kings
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In 762 BC, the Lord sent one man to the most wicked and violent city upon the face of the earth. He persuaded a king, moved an empire, and redeemed himself! His name was Jonah. Jonah takes you on a miracle-filled journey from deep within the whale’s belly, over 500 war-torn miles, and into the very heart of ancient Nineveh, illuminating one of the Bible’s most incredible stories of transformation.
Feel Jonah’s love for his beloved Naomi. Tremble before the King and Queen of Nineveh. But above all, “Jonah In the Time of the Kings” reveals the very heart of God and his love for all people, as His message is delivered by one of the most flawed yet heroic prophets in the Bible.
In 762 BC, the Lord sent one man to the most wicked and violent city upon the face of the earth. He persuaded a king, moved an empire, and redeemed himself! His name was Jonah. Jonah takes you on a miracle-filled journey from deep within the whale’s belly, over 500 war-torn miles, and into the very heart of ancient Nineveh, illuminating one of the Bible’s most incredible stories of transformation.
Feel Jonah’s love for his beloved Naomi. Tremble before the King and Queen of Nineveh. But above all, “Jonah In the Time of the Kings” reveals the very heart of God and his love for all people, as His message is delivered by one of the most flawed yet heroic prophets in the Bible.
319 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 29, 2010
186 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Anthony Barbera
14 books8 followersAnthony Barbera is a writer and composer, drawing inspiration from his deep love for both music and books. He began his journey as a music composer for films and advertisements, earning his Bachelor's in Music Composition from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. While pursuing his Master's at the University of Massachusetts, Anthony received multiple awards, including first prize for "Two Songs for Soprano and Orchestra on Poems by Rilke," performed by the North Carolina Symphony Orchestra.
But Anthony’s love for writing and storytelling couldn't be held back. He especially felt the pull when he was asked to guide a group of ambitious teenagers in writing and acting for their debut film, "X Marks the Spot," at the First Sonoma Film Festival.
His published novels include "Catching Baby Moses," "The First Rains of October," "Jonah: In the Time of the Kings," "Assurity: A Space Thriller," and "Izzy the Bernese Mountain Dog." His latest biblical historical novel, "Elijah: Fire from Heaven," is now available at most booksellers.
“Enjoy a free eBook when you join Anthony’s Readers—behind-the-scenes updates, and exclusive content? Join Anthony’s Readers on his website: AnthonyBarbera.com
But Anthony’s love for writing and storytelling couldn't be held back. He especially felt the pull when he was asked to guide a group of ambitious teenagers in writing and acting for their debut film, "X Marks the Spot," at the First Sonoma Film Festival.
His published novels include "Catching Baby Moses," "The First Rains of October," "Jonah: In the Time of the Kings," "Assurity: A Space Thriller," and "Izzy the Bernese Mountain Dog." His latest biblical historical novel, "Elijah: Fire from Heaven," is now available at most booksellers.
“Enjoy a free eBook when you join Anthony’s Readers—behind-the-scenes updates, and exclusive content? Join Anthony’s Readers on his website: AnthonyBarbera.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 18, 2021
There are some books so good, so well written, I hardly want them to end. This was not one of them. In many ways, Jonah seems to be a minor character in this story that seems obsessed with descriptions of brutality. I understand a storyteller's prerogative to create an imaginative narrative, but I got bored with certain passages and dialogs. And where was the editor??? Punctuation, grammar, and syntax errors abound!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2021
Love this Book So Far. So Good.
May 31, 2022
Jonah In the Time of the Kings is a historical novel that is directed towards a primarily Christian audience, as its goal is to retell the Biblical story of Jonah as an adventure story. The book follows the point of view of several characters, from the titular Jonah to his betrothed Naomi and the two kings of Syria and Assyria.
In this novel form of the story of Jonah, events play out for the most part just as they do in scripture, with an understandable amount of artistic license taken to flesh out and expand upon the original. This i would normally be fine with, but one issue I had with this was that the "new" material, if you will, seemed to take precedence over the two more memorable moments of Jonah's story, those being the encounter with the whale/great fish and the preaching to Nineveh itself. With the former, the entire time it took for Jonah to encounter the beast and be released on his way took only a little more than a chapter. The time it took from being a faithful prophet, to wanting to run away, back to being totally faithful just seemed a bit rushed, and I felt as though a little more time could have been spent on developing his inner struggle. The latter case, his preaching through Nineveh, is similar. Very little time or effort seemed to be needed in order for the people and the king/queen to start listening to him. Like the former case, I think a bit more time spent here could have done the story well.
Generally speaking, Jonah In the Time of the Kings is a decent retelling of Jonah's tale, despite some flaws in missed opportunity for delving deeper into the character of Jonah and pacing of several scenes. A good read for those who enjoy Bible stories and would like to see them expounded on.
In this novel form of the story of Jonah, events play out for the most part just as they do in scripture, with an understandable amount of artistic license taken to flesh out and expand upon the original. This i would normally be fine with, but one issue I had with this was that the "new" material, if you will, seemed to take precedence over the two more memorable moments of Jonah's story, those being the encounter with the whale/great fish and the preaching to Nineveh itself. With the former, the entire time it took for Jonah to encounter the beast and be released on his way took only a little more than a chapter. The time it took from being a faithful prophet, to wanting to run away, back to being totally faithful just seemed a bit rushed, and I felt as though a little more time could have been spent on developing his inner struggle. The latter case, his preaching through Nineveh, is similar. Very little time or effort seemed to be needed in order for the people and the king/queen to start listening to him. Like the former case, I think a bit more time spent here could have done the story well.
Generally speaking, Jonah In the Time of the Kings is a decent retelling of Jonah's tale, despite some flaws in missed opportunity for delving deeper into the character of Jonah and pacing of several scenes. A good read for those who enjoy Bible stories and would like to see them expounded on.
November 23, 2021
I love biblical fiction but this book about Jonah holds the dubious distinction of being the only time I was sorely disappointed. First, the writing quality is very poor English, and reads more like junior high school level - although, in school one is corrected for poor grammar and syntax- not here! Second, the cultural context often seems very inappropriate given what we know of the role of Jewish women at that time as well as how people would behave in the presence of kings. At best it was minimizing of the culture at that time, at worst it was ignorant and offensive. Third, as one other reviewer wrote, most of this book is about war battles rather than about the story of Jonah itself. Jonah was a side line. Fourth, the way the prophets of God were betrayed in the book was an example of bizarre literary imagination and again, offensive- they were minimized, presented as infantile, and not in any way as Godly men.
All in all, I can’t recommend this book and will not be returning to this author. There are so many incredible authors who write biblical fiction - sadly, this author is not one of them.
All in all, I can’t recommend this book and will not be returning to this author. There are so many incredible authors who write biblical fiction - sadly, this author is not one of them.
September 16, 2024
A Great Biblical Fiction!!
The world paints this as a fairy tale but Barbera writes about a biblical event true enough that Jesus even referenced it. Of course, daily details are fictionalized but Amos, the kings, wars and the culture are true to historical records. The characters are well developed that their personalities shine through and yes, Naomi needs a strong hand!
This is a clean novel as far as sex goes, there are a couple swears but reader beware, the Nivavites were brutal conquerors and With treatment of those they battled was grim and is described enough that younger teens and sensitive readers may find it disturbing.
With that in mind, Anthony Barbera writes an excellent novel with a discerning and entertaining blend of biblical accuracy, historical records and fictional possibilities that is easy to award highest ratings and recommendations!
The world paints this as a fairy tale but Barbera writes about a biblical event true enough that Jesus even referenced it. Of course, daily details are fictionalized but Amos, the kings, wars and the culture are true to historical records. The characters are well developed that their personalities shine through and yes, Naomi needs a strong hand!
This is a clean novel as far as sex goes, there are a couple swears but reader beware, the Nivavites were brutal conquerors and With treatment of those they battled was grim and is described enough that younger teens and sensitive readers may find it disturbing.
With that in mind, Anthony Barbera writes an excellent novel with a discerning and entertaining blend of biblical accuracy, historical records and fictional possibilities that is easy to award highest ratings and recommendations!
February 3, 2022
A Warning!!
Wow. I stepped far back into time and yet-right into today. A nation with no God-what would our people do if one would stand and declare-repent! Plagues, earthquakes, famines, extreme weather. I pray God gives us another chance to repent. It is sad to think what it will take :(
A truly wonderful read! I thought a story about Jonah would be childish-this was anything but. Everything came so alive to me, I could sense God’s love AND urgency. Jonah was a wonderful character we could all relate to. And yet I wonder..
When the Son of Man returns…will He find faith on the earth?
Are there any “Jonahs” out there?
Wow. I stepped far back into time and yet-right into today. A nation with no God-what would our people do if one would stand and declare-repent! Plagues, earthquakes, famines, extreme weather. I pray God gives us another chance to repent. It is sad to think what it will take :(
A truly wonderful read! I thought a story about Jonah would be childish-this was anything but. Everything came so alive to me, I could sense God’s love AND urgency. Jonah was a wonderful character we could all relate to. And yet I wonder..
When the Son of Man returns…will He find faith on the earth?
Are there any “Jonahs” out there?
October 28, 2022
Historical Facts Clarify
The history of these peoples and enemies is real. The facts recorded. What I love is to read historical fiction that brings more truth to the biblical story for us modern day people who know so little about the history or the culture. It is so easy to read over the account of Jonah and not ever understand his hesitancy in being ordered by God to go to Nineveh.
I loved the story and the characters. Their lives became three dimensional and their humanity made visible in their being outspoken, actually angered, and at times even entertaining some doubts.
I highly recommend this novel and I'm looking forward to reading another novel by this author.
The history of these peoples and enemies is real. The facts recorded. What I love is to read historical fiction that brings more truth to the biblical story for us modern day people who know so little about the history or the culture. It is so easy to read over the account of Jonah and not ever understand his hesitancy in being ordered by God to go to Nineveh.
I loved the story and the characters. Their lives became three dimensional and their humanity made visible in their being outspoken, actually angered, and at times even entertaining some doubts.
I highly recommend this novel and I'm looking forward to reading another novel by this author.
December 28, 2020
Jonah
I love this Old Testament story. I wish a prophet would come to the United States and lead us all to God! To indeed hear from the Lord would be so amazing!
I love the Old Testament and love the authors who bring them to life with fiction. Thank you and hats off to the author!
I love this Old Testament story. I wish a prophet would come to the United States and lead us all to God! To indeed hear from the Lord would be so amazing!
I love the Old Testament and love the authors who bring them to life with fiction. Thank you and hats off to the author!
November 17, 2021
great story
This is my first novel by Anthony Barbera. I found it informative, easy to read and true to the story in scripture. I love the reflections on God’s goodness and willingness to forgive, despite some of the despicable acts of the Ninevites. This is such an important message for all believers.
By Penny Callaghan
This is my first novel by Anthony Barbera. I found it informative, easy to read and true to the story in scripture. I love the reflections on God’s goodness and willingness to forgive, despite some of the despicable acts of the Ninevites. This is such an important message for all believers.
By Penny Callaghan
March 1, 2024
Jonah as never before
I started reading this as part of my Lenten journey in 2024. I am pleased that I chose this book. I feel that it opened my eyes, mind, and heart to a different, more personable, view of the story of Jonah. I hope to find many more stories like this that help to view stories from scripture that I have heard many times, with more understanding.
I started reading this as part of my Lenten journey in 2024. I am pleased that I chose this book. I feel that it opened my eyes, mind, and heart to a different, more personable, view of the story of Jonah. I hope to find many more stories like this that help to view stories from scripture that I have heard many times, with more understanding.
January 16, 2018
Great Speculation of a Classic Tale
I loved the author's tale about what is not said in the book of Jonah. He made the people and events come to life in a way I had not considered.
I loved the author's tale about what is not said in the book of Jonah. He made the people and events come to life in a way I had not considered.
June 24, 2021
Jonah
Loved this book! It seems to closely follow the Bible! I haven't read another Christian novel about Jonah, and wondered how an author could tackle his story. Thank you, great story!
Loved this book! It seems to closely follow the Bible! I haven't read another Christian novel about Jonah, and wondered how an author could tackle his story. Thank you, great story!
July 21, 2022
great perspective of Jonah the prophet
I throughly enjoyed the author’s change of point of view with the various characters. It offered historical insight, but also gave a personal touch the unique characters he created.
I throughly enjoyed the author’s change of point of view with the various characters. It offered historical insight, but also gave a personal touch the unique characters he created.
October 21, 2024
Jonah
I love this story in the bible. Shows truly how magnificent our God really is. This book is very interesting and full of .... might have or could have happened. Just enough truth to a book of fiction to make you think and know our God is most powerful and True.
I love this story in the bible. Shows truly how magnificent our God really is. This book is very interesting and full of .... might have or could have happened. Just enough truth to a book of fiction to make you think and know our God is most powerful and True.
June 18, 2025
This is the second book of Anthony Barbera that I have read. Jonah in the Time of Kings is a remarkable book. It kept me captivated till the last sentence. Anthony researched this book very thoroughly and can share this with his readers. Can't wait for the next book!
June 7, 2017
Well written
A well researched and written book, "Jonah" stays true to Biblical fact, which is very important to me. I look forward to reading more by this author.
A well researched and written book, "Jonah" stays true to Biblical fact, which is very important to me. I look forward to reading more by this author.
June 16, 2017
Understanding the heart of Jonah.
I liked the way Jonah's feelings were made relatable. God's mercy on Ninevah showed his redeeming love for all people.
I liked the way Jonah's feelings were made relatable. God's mercy on Ninevah showed his redeeming love for all people.
May 5, 2022
Great read
love Christian historical books, love to read about prophets and old land conflicts with kings, look forward to more of your books.
love Christian historical books, love to read about prophets and old land conflicts with kings, look forward to more of your books.
July 15, 2022
Good book
I learned more about Jonah and the cities of that area than I ever knew in all my 73 years as a church going Christian! This book is very well written.
I learned more about Jonah and the cities of that area than I ever knew in all my 73 years as a church going Christian! This book is very well written.
August 16, 2022
Excellent
Brings you back to Jonah's time and gives you great perspective of the customs,emotions and general feeling of the characters
Brings you back to Jonah's time and gives you great perspective of the customs,emotions and general feeling of the characters
February 24, 2023
A story of encouragement
Excellently explained and followed the bible story well. This book made Jonah's bible account come alive!! Even young readers would enjoy this!
Excellently explained and followed the bible story well. This book made Jonah's bible account come alive!! Even young readers would enjoy this!
March 11, 2023
Jonah, prophet of The Living God
I loved reading this book. It put a face on this prophet and brought him to life. Thanks for the story and greater clarity into this prophet.
I loved reading this book. It put a face on this prophet and brought him to life. Thanks for the story and greater clarity into this prophet.
Read
November 5, 2023Interesting info regarding Assyria, and lots of info about war and its cruelty. Loved the beginning chapter about the whale this Immediately caught my attention and drew me in.
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September 28, 2024
a really good book! This is a must read especially if you want to understand the context historical background of Jonah.
September 7, 2025
Ended Up Enjoying The Book
At first it took a bit for it to catch my attention but shortly thereafter it piqued my interest and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
At first it took a bit for it to catch my attention but shortly thereafter it piqued my interest and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
September 30, 2025
Faith and Obedience
Very interesting and good read of Jonah. I would recommend. Having faith in God and doing His will is the foundation of the story
Very interesting and good read of Jonah. I would recommend. Having faith in God and doing His will is the foundation of the story
October 23, 2025
Jonah
I enjoyed and look forward to reading the story around Elijah
I would like to have seen more footnotes though as I like to look up the passages as I read
I enjoyed and look forward to reading the story around Elijah
I would like to have seen more footnotes though as I like to look up the passages as I read
December 6, 2025
JONAH in the time of the kings
This was a great book. I enjoyed learning about the time of the kings as Anthony gave a personality to Jonah and brought this prophet to life.
This was a great book. I enjoyed learning about the time of the kings as Anthony gave a personality to Jonah and brought this prophet to life.
August 17, 2016
Good reading
Great book, I was very pleased with your interpretation and bringing life the story of Jonah .one of the greatest prophets in the Bible. I will Continue reading more of your books
Great book, I was very pleased with your interpretation and bringing life the story of Jonah .one of the greatest prophets in the Bible. I will Continue reading more of your books
January 2, 2022
A lot more to know about Jonah than getting swallowed by a big fish!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews