The Dark Sun Rises

The author has done a wonderful job depicting a terrible time in our nation's history from the perspective of those who had to live through it. The slaves had to endure and put their hope in the afterlife, the Christian slave owners had to consider that their slaves might be better off being under their protection that to be free in the South. Their dilemna also included the fact that their plantations depended on slave labor. The white slave driver had to decide whether it was better for him to remain there and keep the slaves from enduring an abusive driver, or to seek out cheap land for himself and his family in the west.Hate still abounded among nonChristians and those who called themselves Christians. The main character Joseph endures so much pain (physical and emotional) that you cry for him throughout his struggle. Some parts of the book were a bit wordy, but many other parts were painted vividly with such gripping descriptions that you feel you were there.I finished the book with a new understanding of the struggles everyone in those times faced in the disgrace of slavery.

Ê This is a wonderful book that explores the complexities of how to live an honorable, Christian life in a society that approves of discrimination. In a world where laws and social prejudice dictate that some humans are less worthy than others, how is a Christian to act if he or she is a member of the oppressing group, or a member of the oppressed group? What can or should one do? The parallels for today are powerful for those who look. My only criticism of this gripping tale is that the evil characters donÕt even pretend to be Christians, and the Christian characters always are good, even if they are weak. In my experience, sometimes Christians deliberately do evil things, and many non-Christians are wonderfully moral and loving people.Nevertheless, this is a book well worth reading and discussing with your friends. It is told in a manner that involves the reader on all levels. Marvellously written, with a powerful message.

As an avid reader, it is an extreme compliment that I give this book my A#1 best book ever vote! It was hard to turn the pages without my tears falling on the words! Wonderful story, beautifully written!

_The Dark Sun Rises_ is masterfully written. Ms. Williamson creates characters who step off the page as living, breathing people. At the end of this book, you'll know many of them better than you know your family. I found not a single stereotypical character in these pages--those who first appear to be types, grow and change and become more complex as the story unwinds.A character-rich book often has trouble with pacing--not so here. This book never sags. The plot is compelling and powerful. More than a few times the edge-of-the-seat scenes made me want to jump ahead to be certain the characters would survive. Don't look for predictable endings, either. The history rings true, the setting is rich with detail, and yet we are never pulled out of the story by the author's need to offer us tidbits from her research. Rare restraint for a historical author--she weaves the details so subtly that it gives texture, never intrudes.This author not only paints a vivid picture but she lets the reader hear the whip, taste the cool water, touch the worn leather of a treasured Bible, and smell the dung heap.I am a voracious reader, but this is the first time I've given five stars to a book. Don't miss this one.

Author goes against formulas of historical fiction in that main character is a slave. Excellent historical research; African Americans are treated with great dignity and respect. Discusses Christian conscience at darkest time in nations history.Two highlights of the book are scene when Rosa meets Joseph on the "street" (blows you away!) and when Joseph realizes what freedom in Christ really means! As African Americans, we begin to appreciate why our ancestors clung to religion. Lastly, read the book with a friend/friends. You will want to talk about it. It's rich with detail and very well written. Enjoy!