A Man Called Blessed

by Ted Dekker & Bill Bright
Thomas Nelson Publishers

Rebecca Solomon is a former Israeli soldier turned archaeologist. She is currently leading her team deep into the heart of the Ethiopian desert, desperately trying to find the remains of the Ark of the Covenant. Such a discovery would bring hope in the hearts of her people, and give them something to hold onto in the midst of their trials and suffering. It's discovery would show the Jewish people that He truly looks out for His Own, and truly cared about their well being and future. But Rebecca finds that her expedition brings not only danger, but a discovery that will change everything. 

She doesn't realize quite how dangerous, until confronted with Ismael; sent by the Islamic fundamentalist on a mission to stop her at any cost. The greatest fear of the people that sent Ishmael is that the discovery of the Ark will compel the Jewish people to rebuilt Solomon's temple - right where their holy mosque in Jerusalem resides. Political and religious animosity that is centuries old comes to the forefront, and it is a race against time for both Rebecca and Ismael to accomplish what they set out to do. Who is to say either of them is right or wrong? Both take what they believe very seriously, and neither of them is returning home without their prize. Will they man Rebecca seeks shed some light into the future? Or will Ishmael succeed and take the assurance of a future from the Jewish people?  

This was a heart stopping novel that was absolutely explosive from the very beginning. I honestly do not care for stories about the constant troubles of the Middle East, in particular, the fight over Jerusalem. But this novel put my perspective on a whole new plane, and I've got to admit I was spellbound all the way through. What kept me glued to my seat through the book was the constant struggles from all three of the main characters. With one beautiful Jewish girl, one militant Muslim, and one desperate Christian - it was completely up in the air what would happen and how it was going to end. I was very impressed by this novel. 

This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.