Following his vision of the coming Messiah, the prophet Daniel creates a select group of men who will count down the calendar to the arrival of Israel’s promised king. Centuries later, as the day nears, Myrad, a young magi acolyte, flees for his life when his adoptive father and others are put to death by a ruthless Parthian queen. Having grabbed only a few possessions, Myrad escapes the city, … the city, and searching for a way to hide from the soldiers scouring the trade routes, he tries to join the caravan of the merchant Walagash. The merchant senses that Myrad is hiding secrets, but when the young man proves himself a valuable traveler, an epic journey filled with peril, close escapes, and dangerous battles begins.
With every day that passes, the calendar creeps closer to the coming Messiah. And over everything shines the dream of a star that Myrad can’t forget and the promise that the world will never be the same.
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“God’s leading isn’t always as obvious as having His messenger show up in the middle of your afternoon prayers. Sometimes He whispers so softly to your heart, you scarcely know He’s spoken.”
This is actually the first book by Patrick W. Carr that I have read and I am completely mesmerized. This book is a bit different from the speculative novels that the author is known for; it’s a well-researched and captivating Biblical fiction centered around prophecies of Jesus’ birth and the magi eagerly awaiting the Messiah’s triumph, also foretold by the faithful prophets of old. The writing is intense and splendid, and it draws you into the heart of the political and religious unrest in the Persian Empire, as well as the Roman Empire. The protagonist is an unlikely hero, a club-footed Persian apprentice adopted by a Hebrew magus in the capital of the Persian Empire. Myrad, despite his physical handicap, is intelligent, truthful, humble, loving, and loyal. As he reluctantly inherits his adoptive Hebrew father’s lifelong task to keep the calendar according to the old prophecies, Myrad encounters danger, betrayal, adventure, true friendship and kinship and acceptance, hope and even love. Even in the midst of his doubts and uncertainty, Myrad works to spread the word of the One True God in a pagan and pluralistic world. The story spans majority of Myrad’s adult life and it will bring fresh insight into God’s plan of salvation finally unfurling with the birth of Jesus and exploding across the nations with His death and resurrection.
All fans of Biblical fiction will absolutely love this book. It’s a must read, especially as we approach the season of Christmas. I received a copy of the book from Bethany House and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Myrad is the adopted son of a Hebrew magi in ancient Persia. After having a dream of a star in the sky that didn’t move throughout the night, Myrad is brought into the order of the magi, just in time for a massacre. Barely escaping, Myrad now must outrun his pursuers while also attempting to discover the meaning of his dreams about the star and the prophecy of the Hebrews Messiah that his father taught him about.
With Christmas looming, I loved the idea of reading a book about the advent of Christ from the perspective of the magi that visited Him not long after his birth. This book really hit the spot, easing me into the season. With great characters and some fun relationships, following the star with Myrad was an adventure that highlighted some important Biblical truths.
Myrad himself is a decent protagonist, young and inexperienced, learning everything around him along with us. He has a clubfoot, which gets in his way quite often. Walagash is now one of my favorite characters ever. And the relationships between Myrad and Walagash, Roshan, and Aban are enjoyable to watch develop along the way.
One of the main reasons for 4 stars, instead of 5, is that there was a lot of politics in the book, which is the main thing that caused the story to drag in parts. It does make sense, given the state of the empires in that region at the time. But it wasn’t terribly interesting to read the characters discussing it.
For me in particular, the book really drove home the importance of trusting that God’s way is the best way, even when we can’t see what He’s doing. It’s a reminder that He can and does use anyone He chooses for his plans, even those people who think that they are worthless–even those people who don’t follow Him. We can only do our part and accept His will in our lives, and in this, we can have peace in stressful times. This has been really important for me lately.
While this book could easily be pigeon-holed as a Christmas book, it is so much more than that. I recommend it for all fans of Biblical fiction. In truth, I think it should be read by anyone who enjoys historical fiction or quest-driven stories, because the message contained within is important and should be heard by everyone.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bethany House for providing me a copy of this book to review.
I enjoyed the author’s imagination of how the Magi from the Bible might have come to bring gifts to Christ. It seems part biblical fiction, part historical, and a little fantasy type novel.
Patrick Carr is known for his fantasy writing so seeing that he was delving into the biblical fiction arena I decided to give it a go.
I have had a love hate relationship with the Magi since it was brought to my attention that the Magi were not there when Christ was born. With that said I enjoyed how Mr. Carr put a unique spin on the Magi. So many what if’s that leave the reader not questioning God but wondering about all the details that God put together to fulfill the prophecy of the Magi finding Christ.
This book has solid research and will be one enjoyed by all ages!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The End of the Magi
By Patrick W. Carr
This book is one you won’t want to put down once you start reading. So just block off some time, get out a don’t disturb sign, and pull out your largest mug filled with your favorite hot beverage (in my case tea). And just read away.
The End of the Magi opens on Daniel in 537 BC Babylon just as those captive Israelites able and willing to return to the Land of Promise are given the choice. But returning to the home of his fathers’ is not an option for him. Daniel feels led to make sure that the prophecy of the coming Messiah is not lost to the people of Israel when they once again fall away. To do this he must remain in Babylon directing the future of the Magi.
More than 530 years have passed since Daniel gave the Magi the task of searching the skies. Myrad, a young Persian man who has been taken in by Gershom a Hebrew Magi, has a dream. This dream will forever change his life – a star that isn’t a star forever holds its place in the heavens. Hearing of Myrad’s dream, Gershom knows that his son by choice is to be counted among the Magi. But the Magi are about to be betrayed by the very king they advise and Myrad will be left with no choice but to flee all his knows and fulfill the last request of his father.
In his escape, Myrad took something of great value to those who betrayed the Magi. And this something has him being hunted and he will need to gain allies who will help him understand his dream and fulfill Daniel’s mission for the Magi – to make known the coming of the Messiah.
The End of the Magi doesn’t conclude with the birth of Yeshua (Jesus) but rather another 30 years pass and the child they found has become a man. And this man has come under the wrath of the leaders of the very people who claim to be awaiting him. But Yeshua isn’t what they wanted – rather than a kingdom born of the sword to overthrow those in control he has come to fall to the sword.
At less than 400 pages this book seems more than that just because it is so moving. In no way does the story drag or lag – it is just that there is so much to it that one can’t believe that it fits into such a few pages. In no way does the telling fill crimped as if something was cut to make it fir but rather it is a well-rounded reading that is perfect for the Christmas and Easter seasons.
Having read Patrick Carr’s previous fantasy series I was delighted that this book that is not fantasy was just as excellent. This book falls into the Biblical fiction genre and it is excellent. This one doesn’t feel like a little of this is borrowed from here or there to make the story work. This book is complete and most definitely a standalone title. Excellent reading that I would highly recommend.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
My Thoughts on The End of the Magi:
This is such a poignant tale made more so by the season in which we’re embarking. I normally have a hit and miss relationship with Biblical fiction. Some I love and some not so much. This one was amazing!
If you’re wanting to read something pertaining to the Christmas season then this is a great book for you. It’s the years coming up to the birth of Christ and what might have been going on during this time.
Journey forth through toil and danger. Find your life threatened and look over your shoulder with every step you take. It sounds like a modern-day mystery except it’s set back over 2000 years ago!
I loved this take on the Christmas story and a perspective we don’t normally even think about. It’s a great story that I had a hard time putting down. Highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good historical read even if you’re not a huge fan of Biblical fiction this one is unique.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Prism Book Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
And Wise Men Came from the East….
At last, Myrad has had a prophetical dream, his key to becoming a Magi—an elite and powerful group that advises the king. Suddenly, the Queen slaughters the Magi including his adopted father. Myrad doesn’t know which will kill him first, the murderous solders pursuing him, or the desert he is forced to make his escape in. He goes through thrilling circumstances with unfriendly characters while he tries to piece together his father’s cryptic last words.
Myrad, disabled and unaccepted, now with a price on his head, refuses to give up the quest. Astonishingly, he nightly sees a brilliant star that others do not. Because of that, he ends up being part of a group that visits a small baby in lowly surroundings.
This amazing book tells the birth of Jesus through the eyes of the Wise Men. Despite being puzzled by the humble conditions of the child, these men remain true to the prophesies, and hail him as a king. Jesus’ birth, death and resurrection are all seen through their perspective.
This exciting account has mystery, thrills, romance along with the greatest story ever told. All of these things are told in an upright way that does not degrade the story of Jesus. You won’t want to put this one down without finishing it! I highly recommend this 5+ star book to any who would like to consider what it might have been like for the mystery men….those “who came from the East.”
Bethany House Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of The End of the Magi, for the purpose of review.
This is an incredible biblical novel!
I have always loved the story of the magi visiting Mary, Joseph, and the child Jesus. I have never looked into the history of where they came from though. This book goes into the history of the magi. Either in his newsletter or on social media the author gave some information on the research he did in preparation for writing this book. That gave me a feeling of confidence that the story is built on historical fact.
The characters are extremely well developed. I was able to understand their emotions as they moved through the story. I was completely caught up in the action throughout the book. I definitely felt the awe right along with Myrad and the others when they finally found the place the star led them to.
The descriptions about how the merchant caravans worked and the fighting techniques of their guards were wonderful. Many times I was able to visualize what was taking place.
I love the fact that I read this book in November. It has really gotten my mind ready for the Christmas season.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion – which I’ve done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
I’ve often wondered about the three Wisemen who journeyed from afar to see Jesus their king. Have you?This book will have you journeying with them.
However; this book starts out with Daniels prophecy from Babylon first. All of this reverts back to the calendar predicting the Messiah’s birth which comes 30 years later from which Daniel wrote from a vision given to him by God.
It’s certainly a very powerful book with lots of exciting scenes. The most powerful scene comes at the end and may leave you in tears so please have a box of tissues around.
I’ve read a book by this author before and his writing style draws you into his books immediately. I like how he does extensive research and then turns it into a story and it’s believable. He takes you into the magical world of the Magi. It’s from this read that I really enjoyed a true tale from the Bible.
I could vividly “see” some of the scenes in the book especially in the beginning at Musa’s court and feel the characters’ feelings coming through the book is how well this author writes.
“Everything in the New Testament reverts back to Daniel” Yehudah said to Myrad. I sort of liked Yehudah because he answered Myrad’s questions as best as he could and was honest about it. ” Every time we read of a prophet interpreting prophecy, the words are read literally with events taking place exactly as it was spoken.”
Herod was an evil man. I”m so glad that the Magi didn’t go back to him. If they had of, history certainly could have been so much different.
I feel that Herod kind of reminds me of King Henry the 8th. If everything didn’t go his way, he would throw a temper tantrum and start killing everyone. Even Hitler who had all the Jews murdered in World War 2 which is such a shame.
I wished I lived thousands of years ago. How wonderful it would’ve been to see that star shinning brightly on our Lord Jesus. I’m so glad that we have these reenactments of Jesus’ birth. This is also where our Faith comes in. Even though we missed that event, we don’t really have to see Him in order to believe. The Bible is the Word.
The other thing that hasn’t really changed over the years is politics. I couldn’t fathom on how dangerous those times would’ve been. Seems like every time someone turned around they found themselves in danger.
Myrad is my favorite character along with a few others. Why you ask? time.
I love Myrad because he is like the rest of us flawed, full of doubts and well he was just a hot mess all the way around. In other words, human. I felt connected to him because he was adopted just like I am and I’m sure there are others out there as well.
I can also relate to him as he was born with a club foot just like my son was. But my son’s wasn’t as severe as Myrad’s was.
I consider Myrad a very lucky man to be put in a life event like this one and an exciting one at that. He is truly a blessed man even though sometimes I felt that he couldn’t really see it at the time.
Along with his skills we see that he can make trades fairly with the other caravans and marketplaces or wherever they are at the time.
Walagash is another man whom I truly admired. It was his trust and faith that I admired.
I can’t stress enough that this story is wonderful!! I highly recommend reading this book at Christmas or any other time of the year.
Especially since we really don’t know when Jesus was born because he was born in Bethlehem in the middle of the desert.
Either way, I felt that I got to know our Lord and our three Wisemen a little better thanks to the magical pen of Patrick Carr.
The cover of the book is absolutely gorgeous!! I like how the figure is shadowed to make you guess who the person on the from of the book is about. I was pleased that story in the book matches what the picture and the title says on the front of the book.
Patrick Carr weaves a beautiful story in The End of the Magi. I appreciated the way the story took its time, allowing us to experience each doubt, disappointment, and hope-filled moment along with Myrad as he follows a dream he does not understand.
Myrad has only just begun his training as a magus when his world is turned upside down and he finds himself running for his life. He does not understand his dream of the star, barely understands the importance of keeping the calendar marking the coming of the Messiah, and is torn between carrying on his father’s mission and avenging his death. Several times he wants to give up, but the thing that always brings him back to his path is his ultimate desire to understand his dream and why it came to him.
That drive to understand allows him to see things in people that others would overlook.
The political subplot of this book was very interesting. I had never thought about where the magi had come from and what was happening in the political arena of their home country and how that tied in with the rest of the Roman empire before. Additionally, I never made the connection between the book of Daniel and the magi before. That part was fascinating and it definitely made me want to do some additional research. I wish there had been a historical note at the end that included some of the author’s research and inspiration behind the story.
I loved the theme of being chosen by God regardless of heritage, physical ability, and education. Myrad is an outsider in all three categories: Adopted from a Persian background, crippled, and has only just begun his education. He is keenly aware of his inadequacies, and yet he continues to offer what little he sees in himself for the sake of completing his task, and is blessed for it.
Another thing I liked was that the story didn’t end where you would expect it to, with the Magi presenting their gifts to baby Jesus. It continues years later and allows us to see what happened to the characters after their journey had ended.
Most biblical fiction is told from the perspective of someone living within the Judeo-Christian worldview. Even if they do not start out as the most devout of characters, they are familiar with the language and the background of the faith. This is the first biblical fiction story I have read that was written solely from the perspective of an outsider which added a whole new level of depth to the story. This would be a fabulous addition to any high school Kingdom History curriculum.
If you enjoy biblical fiction, stories told from a different perspective, and characters who inspire you even in their insecurities, then you will love this book.
When the King’s favor turns against his Magi, killing Myrad’s father, it unleashes a chain of events that send Myrad on a journey that will leave him forever changed.
A step in a slightly different direction for author, Patrick Carr, who I am familiar with as an epic fantasy writer, in The End of the Magi, he delves into the time before Christ was born, showing the political tensions and unrest of a world in need of a Saviour.
Myrad is a newly appointed Magi, who has been dreaming of a luminous star that calls to him. After his father’s death he finds himself at a loss, not knowing who to trust or where to turn, with the wrath of the Queen’s soldiers after him. On the journey he faces attacks, betrayal, and also finds friends that become like family. Myrad shows a keen mind with a wisdom beyond his years, I admired his devotion to his mission, and determination to not let physical obstacles get in his way, as well as his honesty about his weaknesses.
Overall a well written high stakes journey, that imagines what it might have been like to follow the star, risking it all in a explosive political atmosphere, for the promise of the King. A story of courage, faith, and hope, just in time for Christmas. Multiple colorful characters, well researched, and daring. Great for fans of Biblical fiction and of Mr. Carr’s worldbuilding skills!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The story of the three wise men is familiar to Christians. They are briefly mentioned in the New Testament. This story explores who and what the wise men could have been.
The book begins with Daniel in Babylon 537 BC. He creates a group of people called the Magi who count down the days until the Messiah would be born. The Magi over the years become corrupted with the political power that they have been given. Tragedy strikes the Magi and Myrad escaped with the calendar and other political documents. He was hunted and took measures to make sure his task was successful. Myrad had a disability, he was born with a clubbed foot that made him easily recognizable and slowed down his flight from Persia.
This book is fascinating. The thought of “what if” and “what could have happened” during the time period propelled me to keep reading. I loved following Myrad on the trade routes through the desert. He faced life-threatening situations and was sustained by his God and belief.
This book is perfect for this season. But it is so much more. It is an adventure. It is about faith and prophetic dreams. It is about a young man learning and growing. It also has quite a bit of the time periods of culture.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I love history and seeing all the moving parts of the contemporaries as they live and rule in the place of time that they are born into. We know of the greats, but what of the others that did not have their named marked down in history?
Author Carr has taken the mystery and majesty of the story of the Magi, the Wise Men, the three kings, etc. and has given us quite an adventurous story of political intrigue and the powers that were in charge at the time. Not only around Jesus’s birth, but well before and after.
The prophesy of the coming Messiah and the ones who were looking for him in the east has always intrigued me, and this star that they saw. I have had many questions about that star like was there anyone else looking for it? What kind of phenomenon was it? The author gives a good explanation on it and definitely some food for thought.
Besides the adventure, there was also a little bit of romance, which surprised me and again, I really liked that we get the start of the story all the way back at Daniel’s time and the story continues on.
This was a different Christmas read but one that was exciting and full of wonder.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
This gets a solid 4 star rating from me. I truly enjoyed the writing of this story from start to finish. It was very captivating and pulled me in from the very first page. I loved the characters and how dynamic they were. I also enjoyed going on the journey within this book. Seeing different places, people and kings was quiet intriguing.
Myrad is the main character of the story who happens to be a semi-magi apprentice. He is the adopted son of Gershom. He’s Persian, but he’s very interested in the ways of God. Myrad was such a dynamic character from beginning to end. He was a magi, but also not. He was raised Hebrew, but was Persian. He believed, but had his doubts. He sought vengeance then had a change of heart. Seeing him in every aspect as a human was amazing. Myrad had a great mind as well. They way he did negotiations was amazing to me and his heart was PERFECT. The fact that he also had a “disability” and kept going was so encouraging, inspiring and heartbreaking!
Walagash was such an amazing man! I loved the way he cared for and loved on Myrad from the very beginning. He gives such wisdom and knowledge at times. He helps Myrad out in the best ways possible. I will say…that scene with the punch!!! I died. Great father figure!
Roshan was such an interesting character — especially when that plot twist came in. I was NOT expecting it! Roshan is a strong will character. Very assertive, hands-on and do it myself type of person. Loved the way Roshan handled things.
I also loved Aban — he reminded me of a cool grandpa and Storana was kickbutt!!! A warrior through and through. She was always on guard to protect Myrad in battle.
Masistas and Musa can BOTH go to a pit and drown…no seriously. Masistas is a terrible magi who’s out for self and wealth. Musa was a black widow. She was evil, money hungry, power obsessed and downright pure evil.
The romance in this book was of course surprising! Totally unexpected, but well enjoyed. Myrad makes for a fine husband and his wife — let’s just say I’m basis.
Though I enjoyed this story, I didn’t care for the final portion of this book because it felt rushed and “thrown together” with how much scripture was squeezed into the last 5-10 chapters.
Overall, I totally enjoyed this book and definitely recommend this book to all!!
I hope that the Christmas season is a season you use to grow closer to Christ, who is the reason for the season. Yes, we know He wasn’t born December 25, but it’s not the day that is important. What’s important is that Christ was born. His birth fulfilled Old Testament prophecies. And the Old Testament is where The End of the Magi begins.
It begins with Daniel’s prophecy from God regarding the time the Messiah would come and the magi were given the task of counting the days. The End of the Magi is a book that will really give you a new understanding of the magi. When you think of the magi, you probably think of “We Three Kings” and gold, frankincense, and myrrh. I am a Christian, I was raised in a Christian home and attended Christian school, yet that’s what I think of too. I picture camels carrying the three wise men across the desert to offer gifts to the new king…like that was their job. It wasn’t.
The magi were much more than I ever thought they were. Though this is Christian historical fiction, the magi were real. Though much of the story is based on the author’s imagination, much of it is not. I enjoyed reading this story about Myrad, the magi, Walgash (whom I pictured as Sallah in Raiders of the Lost Ark!), and the entire cast of characters. Their journey throughout the book isn’t just a physical journey; it’s a spiritual journey for many of the characters as well.
I loved so many things about The End of the Magi. The facts I’d never known, the things I’d never imagined…it made me think. This is a book you’ve got to read. I think it will take you deeper in your understanding of just how perfect God’s plan is. I wish that I could convey all of the feelings The End of the Magi left me with. Read it, and you’ll understand.
Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy of this book. All opinions are mine. I was not required to leave a review here. This review first appeared on my blog Christy’s Cozy Corners.
Thank you Prism and the author for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
The End Of The Magi
By: Patrick W. Carr
*REVIEW*
I bet most of you are familiar with the story of the three wise men bearing gifts to baby Jesus. Have you ever wondered about these men? Who were they? Where did they come from originally? Where did they go after events happened? I have thought about this from time to time, so I was intrigued to read a story about the wise men. It begins with Daniel as he gives the task of counting down the days until the arrival of the Messiah to a group of men known as the magi. Fast forward 530 years to Persia and a magi named Gershom. He adopts an orphan named Myrad who has a club foot. One day, tragedy strikes, and Myrad flees for his life. This handicap orphan/magi has inherited the countdown calendar task. Myrad is taken into a merchant caravan where he travels and meets other magi. Although the countdown is about thirty years too early, the group of magi decide to set out after the star. This story is fascinating because it is a look at a journey most never consider. Myrad had limitations, doubts, fears and grief weighing heavy on him, yet he took up the magi journey without concern for himself. The author shows, in various ways, the miraculous hand of God guiding and protecting Myrad as he faced adversity, danger, doubt and his own handicap. The magi made an amazing journey through places unimaginable, and I wish I could see what they saw then. They were in constant danger with the political climate of the day in upheaval, but the magi carried on in faith. Myrad was authentic, relatable and admirable, and the other magi were realistic and engaging. Although a fictional account, the author grounded this story in biblical facts with obviously well researched material. I loved reading this new spin on an ancient story. I’m not well versed in biblical history, but I did not have trouble understanding the story. If you love historical fiction, The End Of The Magi is certainly a unique perspective to consider reading, and I recommend giving this book a try.
As I read this book, I found myself turning to my Bible and I also ‘googled’ to see what was fact and what was fiction. It is very apparent that Patrick W. Carr has devoted a lot of time to research this book that relates the prophet Daniel’s prediction as to when the Messiah would be born. The book begins in 537 BC Babylon and readers are given a story of danger, adventure, and deep faith, as the Magi, or wise men, begin their watch. The End of the Magi centers on Myrad and his dream that shows a huge star that appears to be stationary in the sky. It is as his journey continues, made more difficult because of his club foot, that he continues to dream and it is in one dream that he is told “Behold”, the voice said, “the promised one has been born.”‘
The Last of the Magi is filled with historical details and Bible scripture but Carr also adds wonderful human interest. I was especially touched by the description of the Magi finally meeting Mary, Joseph, and Jesus and reading Mary’s explanation of all that had occurred. I also enjoyed seeing Myrad emerge from being very self-conscious about his club foot to a confident man who had found the Messiah and also the love of a young woman. But it his witnessing The Day of Pentecost and hearing Simon speak in his native Persian language that brought me to tears. That night, as he gathered with his friends and they shared the bread and the wine, Myrad wondered ‘Would anything be ordinary again?’ After reading this book, I know that I won’t because this book has increased my understanding of all of these events. The End of the Magi is a must-read for those who enjoy biblical fiction!
I received a copy of this book from Bethany House but I wasn’t obligated to leave a positive review. This are my own thoughts.
3.5 stars
“From the time the word goes out to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be seven ‘sevens’ and sixty-two ‘sevens’.” Daniel 9:25
Counting the years. Counting the months. Magis meticulously counted the days until the promised Messiah would come, according to the prophet Daniel. When a magnificent star appears in the sky, a young magi acolyte dreams of such a star, with a voice calling out to him saying, “I am”. Then tragedy strikes and Myrad is forced to run for his life following the death of his adoptive father; his physical handicap making the journey all the more difficult as he trudges across the Parthian desert. Miraculously, he gains favor with a wealthy merchant, thus launching the beginning of the “end of the magi”.
Intriguing barely scratches the suface of this story, for the author’s imagination takes over much of what we don’t know about the famed biblical visitors, and skillfully weaves in the known; resulting in a tale that is not only believable, but fascinating. Readers well versed in ancient history will find the story much easier to understand, but those who are not will feel sufficiently schooled.
Rising above it all is the reassuring truth that God can even use a “club footed Persian boy”to accomplish His purposes; for “it’s almost as if God takes delight in accomplishing His ends in the most unlikely way possible. . . . . . (His) promises are sure, whether they come sooner or later.” In spite of this being a more difficult than average book to read, its impact will remain unforgettable.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
The End of the Magi is the first Patrick Carr novel I have ever read. I liked this book. It tells the story of Myrad, who follows the star with other Wise Men to see the birth of the baby Jesus. It continues on to the days when Jesus dies. I enjoyed getting into this tale. It was interesting to read how the author envisioned the times.
I give The End of the Magi four stars. I would love to read more Biblical Fiction like this one by Patrick Carr in the future. This one is a great addition to add to a reader’s Christmas list.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
The End of the Magi by Patrick W. Carr is a unique and predictable glance into the world of the wise men from the Nativity story. While most Americans have heard of the story, Carr decides to dive deeper into the background before the birth of Jesus. It was different and unexpected of a storyline. I didn’t expect to travel so far back, starting with Daniel. I’m glad Carr did though. It made the story easy to follow. While the idea captured my attention, there were moments where the story dragged. I kept finding other things to do around the house instead of read, which is really odd for me. I didn’t want to come back to the story. There isn’t a lot of tension and running for their lives. The story does have a predictable ending. Would I recommend this story to others? Yes, if there looking for this type of story. While the plot didn’t really wow me, the writing is fabulous. Carr definitely knows how to capture a setting and keep in the individual characters’ minds. Overall, The End of the Magi by Patrick W. Carr is a wonderful read for fans of Mesu Andrews and Tessa Afshar. But for me, it didn’t quite capture my attention.
I received a complimentary copy of The End of the Magi by Patrick W. Carr from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.