Book Review: The Scroll

Here is my first book review from a book that I received for free from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for a completely opinion-based review...

The Scroll

by Grant R. Jeffrey and Alton L. Gansky

Dr. David Chambers thought that he had resolved to be done with biblical archeology. He thought that he had put the past behind him- his own discovery of Herod's Tunnel, the books he had written upon the subject, his ex-fiancee- Amber Rodgers, even his faith. But little did he know that the phone call from Abram Ben-Judah would not only change his own future, but maybe even that of the whole world.

When Ben-Judah requested Dr. Chambers to come back to the Holy Land and work on a dig in search of the treasures listed in the Copper Scroll, Dr. Chambers did not want to refuse his old friend and mentor, so he agreed. But while he is there he is surrounded by mystery, murder, and top secrets that even he, as the head of the archaeologists, is kept in the dark about- and he won't find out until it is almost too late.

I found this book intriguing. I really enjoy reading about biblical archeology- and mysteries!- so it definitely kept my interest. I was disappointed, however, at the lack of eloquence in the writing itself. The descriptions seemed to need more to them and the dialogue was a bit cliché and sarcastic. Now, I understand that most of the characters were not Christians, but they seemed to always be acting annoyed and irritated with each other.

The scene where Chambers comes back to Christ left much to be desired. I was disappointed that there seemed to be no lead up- you don't really see much of his “in head” struggle to come back to God- it seems too sudden. I was disappointed that I did not leave the story with a lesson learned.

I commend the authors for having such a wonderful knowledge of history and archeology stored up in this book- I thoroughly enjoyed that. Although I imagine that some people a bit less “nerdy” than myself would quickly find that element boring. I also thought that it perhaps could have been more gracefully woven into the story...

I was so sad when I got to the end. It seemed so sudden and abrupt- I was enjoying the story and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next in detail- but as it was so quickly wrapped up I felt as though I had missed out.

I am not going to say that this was a terrible book- by no means. I thought that the story was interesting, the setting and historical significance fascinating, but that I think the authors could use some more eloquence and morals to be added to the story. If there was a sequel to this book I would read it.

If you love history or biblical archeology- you will probably like this book. But if you are looking for drama and a life-changing story- try Ishmael.