Third Watch

Thrilling is the best word to describe this series, The A.D.Chronicles, and especially, The Third Watch. The characters became such beloved friends, I found myself wanting to pray for them! Their heartache and courage touched me deeply and encouraged me to trust God for His answers, in His timing. But best of all was the subtle change in my own relationship with Yeshua (Jesus). Reading about him as he walked and talked and touched the lives of ordinary people like me brought a new reality, even an urgency, to know him better. The Thoenes brilliantly weave accurate historical research with a dynamite story that propels the reader to the end. In The Third Watch, they also tackle new ground in the way they describe supernatural events with stirring creativity. And, the study notes at the back of the book are wonderful. Each chapter's notes are stand-alone Bible studies of six to nine pages, designed to take you deeper in your walk with the Lord. What a gift the Thoenes are bringing to the Body of Christ through this awesome series!

I really enjoyed reading about what life might be like in the time that Jesus Christ was on earth. Although a work of fiction, Third Watch shows the compassion that Christ had and still has on people. I can't wait to read the next in the series.

Once again, the Thoenes transport us back to the first century and the Earthly ministry of Yeshua. While His disciples and other followers debate how and when He will declare Himself as the king of the Jews, Manaen struggles with his sudden blindness. Will his bitterness destroy his new life with Susanna? In Caesarea Philippi, the rabbi's oldest daughter longs for love as she awaits the Messiah's coming. And flute maker Alexander struggles with dealing with the death of his wife and raising his possessed son alone. Is there any hope from the God his fathers rejected? While these stories are playing out, Herod makes another bid to destroy this threat to his throne. This series is such a departure from the political intrigue that made them popular originally. These personal dramas are just as compelling, however. Even when I knew how these stories would end, I couldn't put the book down until I had finished. Once again, their portrait of Yeshua as a personal friend to all who meet Him is touching. And they certainly present some ideas to think about as well. While I'd like them to get back to 1948 Israel, I'm enjoying this detour to 1st century Israel. Bring on the next book, no matter when it's set.

The whole A.D. series has been a blessing to read, beyond what words can say. The person who didn't like it is spoiled. These books are our first introduction to the Thoenes. We have missed a lot through the years and we are looking to "catch-up". So, Of course we think this series is the best, it's our 1st. We love to listen to the characters as Sean Barrett reads. He is certainly a Master!

Travel back in time and place once again. Impeccable research and brilliant writing are the vehicle to transport you to first century Jerusalem and its environs. Meet up with friends old and new. Third Watch is the third installment in the A. D. Chronicles by Brock and Bodie Thoene. Unlike many series, none of their books suffer as sequels. The storytelling is fresh and offers insight into familiar biblical stories. This is what historical fiction should be!