The Old Testament book of Daniel comes to life in this novel for readers of Lynn Austin’s Chronicles of the Kings series or Francine Rivers’ Mark of the Lion series.FINALIST FOR THE CHRISTY AWARD®Survival. A Hebrew girl first tasted it when she escaped death nearly seventy years ago as the Babylonians ransacked Jerusalem and took their finest as captives. She thought she’d perfected in the many … She thought she’d perfected in the many years amongst the Magoi and the idol worshippers, pretending with all the others in King Nebuchadnezzar’s court. Now, as Daniel’s wife and a septuagenarian matriarch, Belili thinks she’s safe and she can live out her days in Babylon without fear–until the night Daniel is escorted to Belshazzar’s palace to interpret mysterious handwriting on a wall. The Persian Army invades, and Bellili’s tightly-wound secrets unfurl with the arrival of the conquering army. What will the reign of Darius mean for Daniel, a man who prays to Yahweh alone?
Ultimately, Yahweh’s sovereign hand guides Jerusalem’s captives, and the frightened Hebrew girl is transformed into a confident woman, who realizes her need of the God who conquers both fire and lions.
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Of Fire and Lions is a breathtaking and intricately told story of life and love in Babylonian captivity. Mesu Andrews’s well-researched tale brings to life Daniel and his wife, showing in vivid detail the challenges their love experienced in a pagan and hostile environment. Andrews gives readers a fascinating inside look at familiar biblical accounts (like the three men in the fiery furnace), all the while developing a beautiful and timeless love story.
Biblical fiction is my most favorite genre, and Mesu is one of my most favorite authors. I have read a number of Mesu’s works, and have loved every single one. She is such a stellar writer, and her research is impeccably done. But what I love the most about Mesu’s books is that she is so willing to tackle the hard stories of the Bible. She does so honestly, respectfully, realistically, and in a manner that proves she really has a BIG heart for Jesus. Of Fire and Lions is a superb novel that deftly illustrates life during the Babylonian exile. I admit to being totally mesmerized and slightly terrified the entire time I was reading. And, best of all, this novel had me doing a bit of soul searching — exactly what a Biblical novel should do!
When I read the Bible, I’m always inspired by and in awe of God’s chosen people. The Bible is filled with men and women who are fantastic examples of grit, strength, zeal for God, and a steadfastness that seems unshakable. I’m encouraged by characters like Joseph, Moses, Esther, and Daniel. I attempt to glean from their stories ways I can be a better christian, but I do have to admit that many times I feel I could never measure up. I think about what I would do or say if I was in Joseph’s, Moses’s, Esther’s, or Daniel’s sandals, and I’m afraid I wouldn’t be as brave and courageous as they were. Daniel has always been, to me, one of the most intimidating figures in the Bible. He goes through terrifying ordeals, yet he never seems to waiver. He appears to be perfect in his trust and faith in Yahweh. Is this the truth though? Did he really never question or fear? Did he never get frustrated or angry at God?
One of the reasons I LOVE Of Fire and Lions is because Mesu made Daniel real. In this novel, he does have moments of confusion, insecurities, doubt, and fear. Yeah, he’s Daniel and his faith is unwavering, but in this story I see a man who feels things the way I might feel if I were taken captive into an unknown land by a brutal and cruel man. Daniel’s thoughts and questions resemble thoughts and questions I had when I went through scary times myself. And, the way Mesu envisions how Daniel feels when he’s taken to the lion’s den — the terror one feels when facing a brutally scary unknown — was like looking in the mirror. I don’t ever want someone to feel so frightened by fear they’re almost paralyzed, but it is nice to know I’m not the only one on this earth who struggles with fear. I really appreciated seeing Daniel as a man with normal feelings, thoughts, and insecurities instead of the seemingly perfect prophet one sees in the Bible.
I highlighted and made notes on half of this book. So many topics and ideas resonated with me, but there is one question that Daniel poses to his child that struck me hard. At one point, when discussing the return of a remnant to Jerusalem, Daniel asks his daughter, “Can you give up your comfortable routine to live in the tension of God’s uncharted plan?” What a FABULOUS question! I finished reading this novel over 24 hours ago, but I’m still fretting over this question. I would LOVE to say, “Yes!”, but I’m not sure I can and that scares me a little. Not being able to immediately say yes to this question means I have some idols in my life, and that shames me a bit. I can’t say, as I sit her typing this post, that I am fully resolved on this issue, but I very much appreciate that Mesu’s novel allowed for such self-reflection. This is definitely something I am going to have to work on and talk to Jesus about for some time.
Of Fire and Lions is an amazing novel. There is SO much more I could talk about, but I don’t want to spoil a thing. Suffice to say, I really appreciate the new insight I gained into the life of one of the coolest humans in the Bible. And, being able to self-reflect as I did makes this novel a Biblical fiction gem. I highly, highly recommend this stellar novel.
I received a review copy of this novel in eBook and paperback form from the author via her publisher, WaterBrook. The eBook was supplied via NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
If you enjoy biblical fiction like Lynn Austin’s god & kings series, you’ll enjoy this fictional story of Daniel in the Old Testament. I like biblical fiction because it sends me to the Bible to see where the author got their research.
No Wonder that Mesu Andrews is one of the foremost authors of biblical fiction. This story wouldn’t let me go until the end of the book. The characters, the storyline, the attention to historical details, the flaws in the characters, the power of Yahweh (God). It has it all. And after the end of the novel, she tells how she built the novel. I totally respect her as a Christian author.
Mesu Andrews is a master at writing biblical fiction! In Of Fire and Lions, she invites us on a seemingly familiar journey, and then — with a passion for truth and impeccable research — Mesu opens our eyes to an entirely new perspective that shatters familiarity and propels us right back to God’s Word. A compelling, brilliantly written novel, Of Fire and Lions is one of those rare stories that will stick with you for a lifetime.
Mesu has a wonderful gift to make Bible characters come to life and she certainly hit it out of the park with Daniel! The background and history of what was going on in the Middle East socially, economically, historically, was very interesting.
Of Fire and Lion’s is fiction, but it is based on what the Bible tells us about Daniel. I am hooked on Mesu’s books and look forward to the next release.
If you are interested in Old Testament history, Daniel in the lion’s den, you will love the book.
I received an advance copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Kings rise and fall but can she truly trust Yahweh?
I didn’t start this book as soon as I probably should have, I’ve had a copy in my possession for awhile now. But I knew that there was no way I could read a Mesu Andrews book piecemeal. No, when you read one of her books you have to have time, time to read it, and time to ponder what you read. You will become so immersed, so focused on the story that nothing else can get in the way. Of Fire And Lions again proved that to be true and it more than met my expectations.
As with Mesu Andrews’s other books this story is deep, many-layered, it’s dark and even harsh in places because she accurately depicts the terrifying times her characters lived in, but every dark moment leads toward redemption, hope, the Creator, and the coming Savior.
Of Fire And Lions is a beautiful story, sometimes hard to read, but oh so worth it! And it’s a tale you won’t soon forget. Belili, Daniel, and the others so quickly become like friends. Because the plot covers several decades, and thus several kings, you become invested in the characters lives and when that last page is turned and you have to come back to the real world it takes a bit of time to reluctantly adjust.
Seriously, Of Fire And Lions in one of Mesu Andrews’s absolute BEST books and one that I would recommend to pretty much anyone. That is unless you want a pastel portrait of the Bible and in that case I suggest try a little kids Bible storybook because this book has a powerful message to share that does not compromise history or Biblical fact…
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
I have to say this was one of the best Biblical Fiction books I have read. It challenged me and encouraged me. I really enjoyed the insights into the life of Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abendego. Their lives in captivity had to be hard. And this fictional story sprinkled with facts was done very well. Any book that steers one to the Bible to learn more has done well. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. All views are my own.
So imagine Daniel. We know about “Daniel and the lions den”. We don’t know a lot more about him. Author Mesu Andrews helps to fill in some gaps with her “what if” novel. What if Daniel was married as a young man? But not to his first love. What if later that first love became his wife? Let me say that Andrews in no way states her book as “the way it was”. It’s clearly a work of fiction that makes you think about possibilities but does not in any way attempt to change the biblical information about Daniel.
We are given a lot of historical information about the temple, the ark of the covenant, what life was like in those days, all wrapped up in a beautiful love story. I found myself on the edge of my seat often. Those were not easy times and no one was exempt from the brutal rulers. But through the entire story we see God caring for His people, no matter the situation they were thrust into. And I found myself searching my heart. Could I stand as strong as they did, in the face of death? Who knows. We may need to answer that some day.
If you enjoy historical or biblical fiction that will cause you to search your heart, that will make you gasp at times or even weep, then you must read Of Fire and Lions.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Mesu’s stories are immersive in the best sense of the word. Tackling Daniel? Not easy. But she succeeds with a captivating story line and gives penetrating truths that will go deep into your mind and heart.
This is the perfect book for fans of Biblical Fiction and even those who may not be, because after reading, Of Fire and Lions you will surely become a fan of this genre and this author.
In the telling of the story of Daniel which is the true testament of faith as we know but reading it in this format opened my eyes to the true beauty of this story. I won’t go into details because most of us are familiar with his life but reading this account was truly inspiring to me. Yes, I have read the book of Daniel in the Old Testament so I am familiar with the story but my heart raced a little faster as I read each page in this superbly written novel.
I hope readers will pick up a coy of this one and really sit in a quiet place to read this beautifully told story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions are my own.
Freedom despite captivity
Mesu Andrews brings the book of Daniel to life in this exciting tale. Not content to have her characters molded perfectly, without flaw, for her readers to wish they could emulate, she carves them out of flesh and blood and makes them fully human. She took the Biblical account and made it come to life for me more than than it has in the past as I considered even more the things the captives would have seen and experienced.
Belili, also known as Abigail, was one of the captives wrested from her life in Jerusalem and brought to Babylon in the company of Daniel and three other princes to whom she became a handmaiden. Despite an amazing encounter, when she later found herself deserted and alone, she allowed fear to dictate her choices and lead her into a life which she wished she could tuck away and hide from. And for decades she was able to do just that. Her fears and shame controlled her and the secrets she couldn’t share caused her children to despise her.
The author’s portrayal of Daniel was simply amazing! I hesitate to say much, not that I think you don’t know his story, but because I don’t want to give away the things you wouldn’t know about this story. The way she made him both more human and more admirable was nothing short of masterful. And quite encouraging.
I imagine one of the hardest things about writing historical fiction is potentially taking people’s preconceived ideas and tossing them out the window. There were a few things, especially at the beginning when Abigail is escaping from the palace at her Ima’s command, that made me think “”but that’s not possible!”” “”If she had done that. . .”” And yet I could also think of why it could be possible after I stopped to consider. Because of what David. . . And what the Babylonian soldiers did. . .
Early on, I determined to read without judging too quickly and to see where the author was going with this. I know that she has studied the events and the history surrounding this period much more than I ever have. I’m not saying I threw out everything I know. I balanced what I read with what I know of Scripture and of God’s nature. As long as there was nothing contradicting these two things, I would not stop reading.
And once I made that determination, I found myself getting wrapped up deeper and deeper in this incredible story that had me pondering things I have not pondered before. Potential reactions and motivations. And where was Daniel when his friends refused to bow to the image? Why wasn’t he cast into the furnace with them? The author’s suggestion was actually quite surprising.
While it was all extremely touching, one of the most impacting passages in this story for me was the depiction of the events during the seven years King Nebuchadnezzar was transformed and of when that time was over, I was nearly brought to tears.
One of the themes I keep seeing in my Bible reading this year, more than any other, is God’s longsuffering and the way He forgives again and again and again and again. The story of His faithfulness to His people even as they were in the exile imposed on them for their faithlessness is one that should have all of us humbled and awed – because isn’t that our story as well? Of Fire and Lions shows so clearly God’s patience with us and His love that is always ready to accept our repentance and forgive.
This story of fiery trials, shame, guilt, treachery, forgiveness, and faith is one that should not be missed!
If you enjoy Western-themed romance, Her Last Chance Cowboy is sure to please.
Read with a Preview at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
Mesu Andrews writes Biblical historical fiction and her work is well researched. After reading my first book by her she immediately went on my “favorite authors” list. She will take you back into time, with actual historical characters. Her hero/heroine is always in the background of actual events but some of the Biblical people may play a small roll/sometimes a major role in the storyline. You will see the hardships, the day to day life, the dangers of living in the Old Testament era. Your heart will be touched, you may even shed a few tears or laugh at some of the characters. There are scenes that make you realize how hard doing something wrong can be. Mesu will make you feel you are there, touch your heart, your emotions and wishing the book was a little longer. You will feel the dust between your toes or in your mouth, you will feel the terror of enemies attacks.
I received this book as an ARC and highly recommend it. I was only asked to leave an honest review and I absolutely loved this book and other books by this fabulous author. All opinions are my own honest ones.
Biblical Fiction as a whole is not known for being that great, in terms of actual story lines and writing quality. So many of the books that fall into this genre are uninteresting and not very enjoyable reads. The storylines often all feel like you have read them before and just don’t pull the reader into the story. Many authors simply seem to have trouble breathing new life into their characters from the time period.
There are a few exceptions though. Mesu Andrews is one such exception. I have thoroughly enjoyed each of Mesu Andrews’ books that I have read. Each book has had wonderful characters and an interesting story line that doesn’t move so slowly that you fall asleep while reading it. In fact the stories have pulled me on from the first pages and kept me reading until the last pages. Of Fire and Lions was every bit as enjoyable as Mesu Andrews’ other books.
Of Fire and Lions is about Belili, the fictional wife of Daniel. The books begins when Daniel and Belili are in their mid eighties and goes on to tell Belili’s life story. Belili was a young Hebrew girl when she was taken to Babylon with Daniel and many other Hebrew people. Belili and Daniel became friends on the long journey and when they arrived in Babylon, after a short period of time Belili became his maid. After an attempt on Belili’s life, she was sent away from the palace. This is when Belili’s life dramatically and sadly changes course for some time.
Quite a few years later, Belili and Daniel meet again. After each losing their first spouses and growing close to each other through sickness, Belili and Daniel get married. This is in many ways still only the beginning of their story. Of Fire and Lions then goes to tell the story of the time that Daniel spent in the lions’ den from Belili’s perspective.
Of Fire and Lions is a moving story, a beautiful story of love between a couple who has been married for many years and a story of faith and redemption. Belili’s faith and relationship with God grows and develops throughout the story and over the years. Belili finds forgiveness from her sins and peace from her heartache.
I highly recommend this book to older christian historical and biblical fiction fans. It is definitely worth the time spent reading all 400 pages of the story. That said, I would not recommend this book to younger teens and tweens.
A truly masterful account of the history of Daniel and his three friends. It shows the power of a sovereign God and the (miraculously tested) faith of His people. The storyline is very believable as well as engrossing. Mesu Andrews is a very talented and gifted writer. I have read several of her missives and have had the same incredible feeling from all of them.
Mesu Andrews writes in a way that puts you right there in the time, space and culture with all the feels! Historical fiction at it’s finest! This story of Daniel is in my top ten for 2019!
I never get tired of reading Mesu Andrews books. Everyone is so good… realistic, well researched, page turners
Of Fire and Lions explores a well-loved story and adds color and depth. The historical accuracy is stunning. It explores how the characters deal with life’s tragedies and complexities in relationship to God. The story of Abigail draws you in and forces you to face your toughest questions about God. This is a story not to be missed.
Ever since I read Mesu Andrews book, “In The Shadow of Jezebel,” I fell in love with the author’s ability to make me think about Biblical stories in new ways. Ways that make me realize that God intended a godly life to be practical and filled with blessings…sounds boring, right? Well, not when Mesu Andrews picks up her pen! And man, oh man, did Mesu pull out all the stops when she wrote Daniel’s story in, “Of Fire And Lions.”
When you think of Daniel, you’ll probably remember that he was taken from Israel at a young age, advanced to become one of the chief leaders in Babylon and was thrown into the den of lions because of his prayer life. If you’ve read about his life further, you may even know that it’s commonly accepted that Daniel remained single. But, what if there was evidence that he could have married and had a family? This novel explores those possibilities in an unforgettable fictional retelling of might have happened to Daniel and …Bellili.
“Of Fire And Lions” covers Daniel’s entire life; it starts from the time he’s a boy being taken from Jerusalem up to the first remnant of Jews being sent back to Israel under the reign of Darius. During this time frame, you see both Daniel’s life and the fictional life of Bellili, a Hebrew girl with a Babylonian name that Andrews created to be Daniel’s wife, from beginning to then. I really enjoyed seeing these two grow up and how captivity affected their faith in Yahweh. One of my favorite parts was in the first few chapters, where we see them go from the Holy City of God to Babylon, the city where “Etemenanki” was built. (Etemenaki was the name for the Tower of Babel that they rebuilt.) But, if you’re thinking this story will be a sweet romance between a Hebrew girl and a Hebrew boy who both love God, you’re mistaken. This novel sets a whole new standard to the term “unpredictable” in fiction. The plot twists? I never saw them coming! (And I mean, never!) But it was those plot twists that once again, set my mind to thinking about how unpredictable life is. Not just in fiction, but in real life as well. Bellili had to go through many things, things she didn’t understand. And just like real life, she had to trust God to work all things together for good. Together, those plot twists transformed this story into an epic novel.
Conclusion: I loved “Of Fire and Lions!” Not only do you get to travel from Jerusalem to Babylon, but also through 70 years of Israel’s Babylonian exile, rulers and some of Scriptures most often quoted stories. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the fiery furnace, Nebuchadnezzar’s seven years of insanity and Daniel’s own persecution in the lion’s den…you get to see it all. But, “Of Fire And Lions” isn’t just another Biblical Fiction novel, it’s an epic tale of redemption, forgiveness and God’s goodness set in turbulent times of Israel’s history. I highly recommend this new book by Mesu Andrews!
In order to understand how desperately God wants a relationship with humans, sometimes we have to imagine what might have happened in between the chapters of the Bible. Reading Of Fire and Lions provided that opportunity for me. Mesu Andrews wrote about a very human Daniel and a less monstrous Nebuchadnezzar than I had assumed of before. Friendships and family dynamics were portrayed in a way that made the hero Daniel much more real to me. I know that I’ll read the book of Daniel with a bit more empathy included with my admiration in the future.