"Paul Apostle of Christ" Book Review

A few weeks ago I wrote a review on the movie that this novel is based upon. To sum up that review would be to say it was okay. Not horrid but not fantastic. The novel, on the other hand, gets a completely different rating.

As per author Angela Hunt's norm, she did a bang up job breathing life into the story. Though, even still, I wouldn't call this book riveting (and I am a huge Angela Hunt fan). In my opinion, which is always open for scrutiny, it was a matter of there simply not being enough plot for her to work with. (this novel is based on the screenplay)

If you had to chose between seeing the movie and reading the book, there's no question, read the book. It gives more insight into how Paul ended up in prison and how he went from Christian killer to lead Apostle. Plus it explained some of the scenes from the movie that kind of confused me.

One thing to remember is that this is fiction based on truth. As such, the author took liberty. I've never minded when additional characters are made up to help the story along but as the reader, we must keep in mind that some attributes placed on true historical figures are of the author's making and not to be seen as truth. There were a few times in this book where I cringed ever so slightly at assumptions being made. But again, I reminded myself that this is fiction.

One way to tell if a book is good is whether it leaves you impacted after you've closed the last page. This definitely happened. Seeing all that Paul went through and how passionate he was for spreading the kingdom hit me like a brick wall as I compared it to my cushy Christianity. Is there any hunger in me at all? A good question for us all to ask.

I did enjoy "Paul Apostle of Christ". It just isn't as amazing as "Delilah" or "Bathsheba" (both also written by Angela Hunt) Her style of writing was great and this book was no exception.  I would not discourage you from reading it but I also wouldn't suggest you start with it if you haven't read any of Ms. Hunt's other books.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.