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The Crowning Crescendo #3
A Song of Victory
With the stakes higher than ever, what choices will be made by Julia, Barabbas, Melina, and Malchus as the city is rocked to its very core.
Jerusalem is again plagued by turmoil as the controversial ministry of Jesus Christ reaches a crowning crescendo. Even after the preaching of John the Baptist is tragically cut short, the teachings of Jesus shake the entire province, forcing many to take sides.
Some even against their own family.
Julia leans on God as her reckless husband, Barabbas, becomes more entrenched with the violent Zealots and their dangerous cause. After making a surprising discover, she must trust her Savior unlike ever before.
Meanwhile, caught in the palace of a twisted ruler, Melina’s faith is tested by the schemes of a wicked woman. Witnessing appalling events that will forever change the course of history, she also wrestles with her feelings for Malchus – the handsome young man so hesitant to pledge his allegiance to the Messiah.
Trapped within an intricate web of political and religious intrigue, Julia, Barabbas, Melina, and Malchus must face the same fateful, possibly fatal, question: Will they forsake all to follow Jesus Christ?
Jerusalem is again plagued by turmoil as the controversial ministry of Jesus Christ reaches a crowning crescendo. Even after the preaching of John the Baptist is tragically cut short, the teachings of Jesus shake the entire province, forcing many to take sides.
Some even against their own family.
Julia leans on God as her reckless husband, Barabbas, becomes more entrenched with the violent Zealots and their dangerous cause. After making a surprising discover, she must trust her Savior unlike ever before.
Meanwhile, caught in the palace of a twisted ruler, Melina’s faith is tested by the schemes of a wicked woman. Witnessing appalling events that will forever change the course of history, she also wrestles with her feelings for Malchus – the handsome young man so hesitant to pledge his allegiance to the Messiah.
Trapped within an intricate web of political and religious intrigue, Julia, Barabbas, Melina, and Malchus must face the same fateful, possibly fatal, question: Will they forsake all to follow Jesus Christ?
606 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2022
About the author
Rachael C. Duncan
11 books40 followersRachael C. Duncan is a passionate follower of Christ. She believes that God has gifted each of His children with different gifts to be used to strengthen the body of Christ and fulfill the Great Commission, and her desire is to share God's love through the gift of writing.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 20, 2022
Thought provoking
Dear Rachel,
I just want to say thank you, for taking time to research this stories. I was blessed beyond words, the characters came alive to me that when I face any situation my thought will be what will Julia do. I have read lots of Christian fictions but yours is life changing. I will be looking out for your books
Dear Rachel,
I just want to say thank you, for taking time to research this stories. I was blessed beyond words, the characters came alive to me that when I face any situation my thought will be what will Julia do. I have read lots of Christian fictions but yours is life changing. I will be looking out for your books
March 5, 2022
Rachael Duncan – Crowing Crescendo Bk 3 – A Song of Victory – Reviewed 3/2/22 – Read 2/28-3/1/22
Soon Jesus will be crucified; Julia, Melina, Malchus know it is important to trust their savior.
“Song of Victory” is a beautiful, romantic account of the days before and after the time when Jesus was crucified. It tells the story of Julia, Barabbas, Melina, and Malchus as they each face their fears and how they each learn to trust in their faith. Some need to find that spot in their hearts to give themselves over to this trust. This book is detailed but follows the facts just as we know them to have happened. I was captivated by the first book and have enjoyed each as they have come out. This book even more so than the first two. I highly recommend this series to anyone of this genre as a beautiful addition to your Christian Library.
• ASIN: B09MH6ZMKV
• Publisher: CKN Christian Publishing
• Publication Date: 1/26/2022
• File Size: 3832 KB
• Print Length: 551 pages
• Genre: Historical Christian Romance Fiction, Historical Christian Romance, Religious Romance
Soon Jesus will be crucified; Julia, Melina, Malchus know it is important to trust their savior.
“Song of Victory” is a beautiful, romantic account of the days before and after the time when Jesus was crucified. It tells the story of Julia, Barabbas, Melina, and Malchus as they each face their fears and how they each learn to trust in their faith. Some need to find that spot in their hearts to give themselves over to this trust. This book is detailed but follows the facts just as we know them to have happened. I was captivated by the first book and have enjoyed each as they have come out. This book even more so than the first two. I highly recommend this series to anyone of this genre as a beautiful addition to your Christian Library.
• ASIN: B09MH6ZMKV
• Publisher: CKN Christian Publishing
• Publication Date: 1/26/2022
• File Size: 3832 KB
• Print Length: 551 pages
• Genre: Historical Christian Romance Fiction, Historical Christian Romance, Religious Romance
September 28, 2022
Applying prophetic Scripture
There are times when reading Scripture is not so easy to understand because we are not fully aware of the context in which it was written. These novels very aptly apply them and they are meant to be applied.
I laughed. I cried. I held my breath. I gasped in utter disbelief. I clenched my jaw at the refusal of some of these characters to just be kind. They were all so real to reveal life making them so believable and so aggravating at times.
I love her writing style, the fictional plot, and the way her characters bring God's Holy Scripture to life.
There are times when reading Scripture is not so easy to understand because we are not fully aware of the context in which it was written. These novels very aptly apply them and they are meant to be applied.
I laughed. I cried. I held my breath. I gasped in utter disbelief. I clenched my jaw at the refusal of some of these characters to just be kind. They were all so real to reveal life making them so believable and so aggravating at times.
I love her writing style, the fictional plot, and the way her characters bring God's Holy Scripture to life.
July 28, 2023
Could not put it down!
I very rarely read a book more than once, all the way through I knew what happened but still I devoured it! This book is a rare treat, one of the very best accounts of Jesus's final days with us interwoven with characters that you really want to know and know well. Of course reading the whole series has meant I have enjoyed a feast for several days and not been disappointed. Excellent reading.
I very rarely read a book more than once, all the way through I knew what happened but still I devoured it! This book is a rare treat, one of the very best accounts of Jesus's final days with us interwoven with characters that you really want to know and know well. Of course reading the whole series has meant I have enjoyed a feast for several days and not been disappointed. Excellent reading.
July 30, 2022
A Song of Victory
The Bible based fiction resonate with the Bible. And I think it's not just fiction but inspired. The clarity is awesome; "I must decrease, as He increases ". That shouts to me of dying to oneself, and living by Jesus. I love reading theses three spiritual motivating stories.
The Bible based fiction resonate with the Bible. And I think it's not just fiction but inspired. The clarity is awesome; "I must decrease, as He increases ". That shouts to me of dying to oneself, and living by Jesus. I love reading theses three spiritual motivating stories.
July 31, 2022
At least 6 people are saved by Jesus, and then there are those who are not.
I loved this series!
I loved her use of scripture and its application.
It was so well written!
A bit on the long side, but well worth it!
I loved this series!
I loved her use of scripture and its application.
It was so well written!
A bit on the long side, but well worth it!
September 25, 2025
As predictable as this story is, the various surprises could have happened as well!
What if……
Rachael Duncan has certainly done her research on architecture, Jewish history and Roman governance which she wrapped into a believable “What if”. Christians know many of the characters well. They are real and their experiences are recorded. Between the lines there are thousands of stories of people who lived in the times of Jesus’s life and death and resurrection. Imagine if your own life had been lived in those historic times and you’ve got some idea about the fears, confusion, thoughts, and surprises encountered in this work of fiction that seems real.
What if……
Rachael Duncan has certainly done her research on architecture, Jewish history and Roman governance which she wrapped into a believable “What if”. Christians know many of the characters well. They are real and their experiences are recorded. Between the lines there are thousands of stories of people who lived in the times of Jesus’s life and death and resurrection. Imagine if your own life had been lived in those historic times and you’ve got some idea about the fears, confusion, thoughts, and surprises encountered in this work of fiction that seems real.
February 27, 2023
great storytelling
In amazing detail and with well researched observations Rachael tell this familiar story in a refreshing and inspiring way. The third and final part in the trilogy brings the transition in the lives of several of the main characters into a new hopefilled life as believers.
Penny Callaghan
In amazing detail and with well researched observations Rachael tell this familiar story in a refreshing and inspiring way. The third and final part in the trilogy brings the transition in the lives of several of the main characters into a new hopefilled life as believers.
Penny Callaghan
July 18, 2023
Great Biblical Story of the Early Christian Church
This has been a delightful book to read. The inclusion of people who lived while Jesus Christ walked the path God set out for Him. The people His loved and touched and the Miracle of His Life. Jesus took our Sins on Himself so we have received Salvation through the Blood He shed on the Cross.
This has been a delightful book to read. The inclusion of people who lived while Jesus Christ walked the path God set out for Him. The people His loved and touched and the Miracle of His Life. Jesus took our Sins on Himself so we have received Salvation through the Blood He shed on the Cross.
September 16, 2023
Wonderful
I've enjoyed this trilogy of books and the transformational stories of each character. It takes time and events, some of which are a refining process before they finally understand who Jesus is and align their will with God's will. The Lord sets various seasons in their journey for this to happen.
I've enjoyed this trilogy of books and the transformational stories of each character. It takes time and events, some of which are a refining process before they finally understand who Jesus is and align their will with God's will. The Lord sets various seasons in their journey for this to happen.
February 3, 2022
A good series
Very long but very good read. The author does like the word roiling seeing it many times lol. I enjoyed most of the book. Wasn't thrilled with the portrayal of Mary the sister of Lazarus as a harlot, but I understand poetic license.
Very long but very good read. The author does like the word roiling seeing it many times lol. I enjoyed most of the book. Wasn't thrilled with the portrayal of Mary the sister of Lazarus as a harlot, but I understand poetic license.
November 13, 2022
This book is so edify to all believers.
Such a moving book. Almost felt like I was there beside the characters seeing and feeling what they felt. I am reminded of God's love and Jesus great sacrifice for all.
Such a moving book. Almost felt like I was there beside the characters seeing and feeling what they felt. I am reminded of God's love and Jesus great sacrifice for all.
March 10, 2023
Soul stirring
I cannot believe how this author weaved such a beautiful story so closely entwined with scripture. Who would have given Barrabas the opportunity to become born again and make it believable. I wanted this story to last forever! I
I cannot believe how this author weaved such a beautiful story so closely entwined with scripture. Who would have given Barrabas the opportunity to become born again and make it believable. I wanted this story to last forever! I
March 15, 2023
A Beautifully Written Account of Jesus’s Life, Death and Resurrection!
I read this book just weeks before Easter and I’m looking forward to celebrating Jesus’s finished work for my salvation soon! So well written I’m blown away and see Christ in a new light.
I read this book just weeks before Easter and I’m looking forward to celebrating Jesus’s finished work for my salvation soon! So well written I’m blown away and see Christ in a new light.
October 11, 2025
poorly researched version
There are so many poorly researched stories in this book. The author took a step beyond literary license of creating a back story and turned this into a false narrative of scripture
There are so many poorly researched stories in this book. The author took a step beyond literary license of creating a back story and turned this into a false narrative of scripture
January 31, 2022
This was a really good series.
February 5, 2022
Great biblical fiction. I enjoyed the history and bringing this story to life. I want to read more by this author
April 23, 2022
Did not disappoint
This third book in the stores did not disappoint. I enjoyed the series and recommend it to anyone who enjoys Biblical historical fiction.
This third book in the stores did not disappoint. I enjoyed the series and recommend it to anyone who enjoys Biblical historical fiction.
June 30, 2022
Unique characters
It is unusual to read a story of Jesus with characters that are not as well known, but this one does. It gives us insight and hope as the story ends.
It is unusual to read a story of Jesus with characters that are not as well known, but this one does. It gives us insight and hope as the story ends.
July 22, 2022
Very thought provoking
In thinking about Jesus crucifixion, I had never compared it to creation. But the author did that beautifully. A great series.
In thinking about Jesus crucifixion, I had never compared it to creation. But the author did that beautifully. A great series.
November 11, 2022
amazing read
The trilogy, The Crowning Crescendo, are great books! So full of scripture. I highly recommend all 3 to anyone!! They encouraged me in my faith!
The trilogy, The Crowning Crescendo, are great books! So full of scripture. I highly recommend all 3 to anyone!! They encouraged me in my faith!
January 13, 2023
Kindle Unlimited
I loved this book and will read more by her. A beautiful story of redemption through the cross.
I loved this book and will read more by her. A beautiful story of redemption through the cross.
September 19, 2025
wonderful perspective!
Cleverly woven and beautifully written story of Christ and characters who come to faith! Great Bible references! A great read!
Cleverly woven and beautifully written story of Christ and characters who come to faith! Great Bible references! A great read!
October 18, 2025
I LOVE these books. They are just as good as the mark of the Lion series.
July 25, 2023
The final installment on the saga of Julia and her husband Barabbas, Melina and her suitor Malchus, and their friends Elias (cook for Herod Antipas's household), Mara (cook for Caiaphus's household), Malchus's cousin Alexander - raised as a pagan, Julia and Barabbus's neighbors Deborah and Isaac (a paralytic healed by Jesus), Julia's nursemaid Joanna, who sticks by her during her pregnancy, Salome (Herod's stepdaughter and now, wife of Philip the Tetrarch, who is nearly old enough to be her grandfather and who has Melina take her on an adventure when she sneaks back home), Lucius (who marries Mara to keep her as an informant, but never acts as a husband and, under Roman law with the type of marriage they chose, not really legally bound), and Julia's family. The group goes through their various paths on their way to meeting their Savior face to face, to accept or reject Him, even to the point of His false arrest, Kangaroo court trial, flogging, and painful death on the cross...and through to His resurrection. Julia goes into labor as the trip to Golgotha begins, and Barabbus takes her to her parents' home - then returns to the cross at Julia's request, to give support to their Savior and Lord.
Despite the length, the story is well written and engaging, with just the right amount of suspense. This includes the machinations, lies, and overinflated sense of self-importance of Caiaphus, who gets a shock in the end of the book. Couples are brought together to make their decisions. Elias surprises Melina, and in turn, Simon surprises Malchus, and doubtless irritates Caiaphus.
The book mentions the resurrection but not the ascension nor the first Pentecost of the Way, as they initially titled what they viewed as a Jewish sect, and which, in Antioch during the book of Acts, becomes the current title of "Christians."
The presence of trite similes is not in this book as it was in the second one, making it more enjoyable for English geeks like me - it likely wouldn't bother anyone else! The details stick closely to the Scriptures, as interpreted by the various characters throughout the 3 book series.
Despite the length, the story is well written and engaging, with just the right amount of suspense. This includes the machinations, lies, and overinflated sense of self-importance of Caiaphus, who gets a shock in the end of the book. Couples are brought together to make their decisions. Elias surprises Melina, and in turn, Simon surprises Malchus, and doubtless irritates Caiaphus.
The book mentions the resurrection but not the ascension nor the first Pentecost of the Way, as they initially titled what they viewed as a Jewish sect, and which, in Antioch during the book of Acts, becomes the current title of "Christians."
The presence of trite similes is not in this book as it was in the second one, making it more enjoyable for English geeks like me - it likely wouldn't bother anyone else! The details stick closely to the Scriptures, as interpreted by the various characters throughout the 3 book series.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews