Official Review: The Incarnation by Arthur Telling

Please use this forum to discuss historical fiction books. Common definitions define historical fiction as novels written at least 25-50 years after the book's setting.
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Gerry Steen
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Re: Official Review: The Incarnation by Arthur Telling

Post by Gerry Steen »

mmm17, you wrote a great review of The Incarnation by Arthur Telling. It was much more clarifying than the summary of the book posted by Amazon. Before reading your review I thought that the book would be a boring diplay of historical facts. You revealed that in the book, the gospel of Thomas does not talk about Jesus' crucifixion and that there is an alternate story about Jesus. I am curious about Paul's discussions with the Greek philosophers while he was in Athens. I guess I will have to read the book to find out! Thank you. Have a great day!
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RJ Reviews
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Post by RJ Reviews »

Though this doesn't seem like a book I would pick up, but the plot is certainly intriguing. It provides another point of view on Mary Magdalene's story. Inclusion of Cleopatra and Julius Caesar is quite unexpected. Congrats on BOTD!
The review is impeccably written, detailing all the positive as well as negative aspects of the book. I enjoyed reading this insightful piece and appreciate the reviewer's efforts.
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Post by Chris Agbara »

"The Incarnation: Cleopatra's Story of Jesus" offers a unique and imaginative take on historical events, blending ancient Egypt, Christianity's early years, and the Gospel of Thomas. While some aspects may seem farfetched, the book impresses with well-structured chapters, solid references, and a heartwarming message. A recommended read for open-minded individuals exploring unorthodox perspectives on religion and history. 3 out of 4 stars.
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Post by Kirui Collins »

Christianity in the early days and how it spread so fast. Congrats on the BOTD and thanks for the review.
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Post by Mayuri Kotalawala »

The author explains that fictitious narrative and dialogue have been inserted in the book, but he asserts that it’s not unlike the way it truly happened. Throughout the book, we learn that the Gospel of Thomas does not mention a crucifixion. Moreover, the author tells a completely different story of Jesus, but I have to tread carefully here not to give away spoilers. What I can say is that in this version, Mary Magdalene has blood ties to Julius Caesar and Cleopatra, and she and Jesus had a relationship.
- Sounds fascinating. I would love to read it sometime. Great review. Thank you.
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Post by Upphilan Paul »

This is an inspiring and exceptional historical book about the life of Jesus and the birth of the early Christians. This books contains information that you might not have come across in your Bible and that's why I recommend it to everybody. It's absolutely worth reading, Arthur Telling did well.

Congrats on BOTD!
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Post by jesseabdalaziz »

I feel like this review was directed to me. I value traditional approaches to Christianity and seeing that it is a combination of that and history, am intrigued. It's a 'want to read' for me
Thanks again really for this review
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Post by Brittany Arendse »

This sounds like an interesting book, particularly the Egyptians ties of Cleopatra and Mary. The narrative seems similar to the Da Vinci Code in some ways. I would love to give it a read. Well done on #BOTD.
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Post by Sirmax »

"The Incarnation: Cleopatra's Story of Jesus" offers a captivating blend of historical elements, ancient Egypt, and an alternative Jesus narrative through the Gospel of Thomas. While the storyline may seem farfetched and challenges conventional beliefs, the book impresses with well-structured chapters, solid references, and vivid depictions of historical contexts. However, editing issues and the controversial nature of the narrative lead to a deducted star. Recommended for open-minded readers intrigued by unconventional perspectives on religion and history, but traditionalists may find it less appealing. Overall, a thought-provoking but challenging read. 3 out of 4 stars.
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Post by Kajori Sheryl Paul »

A book that talks about the app.ication of theological concepts to practical life sounds helpful.

Thank you for the great review.
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Post by Kshitija Sonawane »

This book seemed so refreshing and interesting. I would love to read it. Congratulations to the author for being the BOTD and I hope more such books are published. I am assuming that this was fictional and no attempts have been made to challenge the historical narratives. Rather, imagination is used to weave a fresh fictional story.
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Post by Nemanja Jankovic »

"The Incarnation" by Arthur Telling is a historical novel set in the time of ancient Egypt and early Christianity. Through the book, the author tells a different story about Jesus than the one most readers are familiar with. Also in this historical novel, Mary Magdalene is blood related to Cleopatra and Julius Caesar.
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Post by Enjani Matendeko »

When reading books like this, I read with an open mind. Jesus had a relationship with Mary Magdalene who had a relationship with Julius Caeser. Now that's a different story from what I know.
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Post by Cristina Corui Mihailescu »

I liked the sample, being a fan of history. However, the editing leaves a lot to be desired.
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Post by Deborah Belanger »

I decided that I would read this book, "The Incarnation: Cleopatra's Story of Jesus" by Arthur Telling before reading your thorough review. I love historical novels especially on Christianity. Being a cradle Catholic, I read this out of curiosity only because I am always interested in another's findings. The fact that he included the Apostle Paul's letters drew me in too. I am looking forward to reading this book so thank you for your great review.
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