"Shadow of the Mountain: Exodus" Book Review

Do you know why "Braveheart" and "We Were Soldiers" were such huge hits? Because they finally portrayed men as they ought to be. The world is inundated with tales of deadbeat dads, unfaithful husbands, and men who just won't grow up. But in these sagas, the leading heroes knew what real love looked like, and were willing to die for what was right and for their woman and children. While realistically flawed, they longed to bring about change. This is also why I loved "Shadow of the Mountain: Exodus". The author, Cliff Graham takes the person of Caleb from the Bible and and made a fictitious story based on what we know of him. It's the tale of a battle hardened man living in Egypt before and during the plagues. Mr Graham did an astounding job of seamlessly weaving 'present' events in Caleb's older life with the retelling of his younger escapades. I don't usually like reading stories in first person but it really worked.

I have to say, it's definitely a man's book. I mean that as a compliment. At one point in the story, Caleb finds out no one in his army helped one of the old widows, who is cooking for them, put up her tent. He brutally punishes the lot of them while righteous anger flows through his veins. That is the kind of man I want my sons to emulate. He is a strong and brave character who comes to trust in the God of the Hebrews with his whole heart and is willing to go up against giants because that God is worth trusting in.

I'm not going to lie, I wouldn't put this book into the hands of a son under the age of 14. Maybe even then it's a bit young. There are a few reference to sexual violence which, while in keeping with the nature of the times, are very unpleasant. The battle scenes are well written which means they are gory and admittedly slightly far fetched. Mind you, when the God of the Universe is empowering you, I'm sure you can take an arrow to the neck or leg, give out a cry and keep on going.

Cliff Graham has also written books on David's mighty men and now that I've read this one, you can be sure I'll be looking to purchase those.

BTW, I got a free copy of this book from Bethany Publishing House in exchange for an honest opinion. I can happily report that I loved it