Official Review: Out Of Saul~Paul by Ken Bangs

[Kibet Hillary]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Out Of Saul~Paul" by Ken Bangs.]

---

4 out of 4 stars

---

Share This Review

---

The impact of Paul, the great apostle, is still being felt everywhere just as it was in the early Church. However, very little is known about his background apart from that he was from Tarsus. Would it behoove us to find out more about Saul? Out of Saul~Paul is a work of historical fiction. The book was authored by Ken Bangs. This outstanding book is not a historical treatise but a fictional account with historical facts added to it.

The author begins by revealing how Paul gained Roman citizenship. In the beginning, we find Belarus in the battleground. The Roman legionnaires are fighting against the Germanic forces and the local tribes allied to them. The war reveals the excellence of Belarus in planning attacks. He does exceedingly well, and the Romans won the war and also quenched the rebellion. What follows afterward is what eventually earns Belarus citizenship and as a result, Saul becomes a Roman citizen by birth. It is from here that the story of Paul develops.

Whether in the open country in the arctic temperatures during winter or on the way to Damascus, the author described everything vividly. Consequently, it was easy for me to imagine how the characters were feeling at every instance. The author additionally used a variety of literary devices including personification, contrast, and many others. The diction was equally excellent. Some archaic words that were used including Roman names helped to place the story in its context. The characters in the book were also relatable. Some were gallant soldiers who had fought valiantly and had risen in ranks. However, the slight mistakes they committed cost them their lives.

In this fictional story, we still find a devout Saul. He is persecuting those of The Way with unequaled passion. I could feel the fear that was there amongst the early believers as Saul had resolutely decided to persecute them. Saul had to persevere immensely during his journey to Damascus. It was a long journey, and he had to walk. The author manages to portray Paul’s zeal well. This zeal is promptly applied to his efforts to spread the Gospel as well after he encountered Jesus on his way to Damascus. The book was filled with brilliant and insightful conversations. Many times we seem to have silent areas where the Bible does not reveal about Saul like his personality. This book did not leave it out. For this reason, eventually, we have a complete picture of Saul.

What I liked most in this book was character development. The plot was also adequately built. The book was also edited well since I discovered a few grammatical errors. I did not like the fact that the eventuality of some characters who played key roles in the story was not revealed although this did not detract from the enjoyment of the book. Therefore, I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. I recommend it to all fans of historical fiction books. This is not meant for Christians alone. Readers who have prior knowledge concerning Saul will enjoy it as much as those who do not.

******
Out Of Saul~Paul
View: on Bookshelves

Like Kibetious's review? Post a comment saying so!

[Manang Muyang]

I would like to find out more about Paul as Saul. This book seems to be an interesting way to do it.

Thanks for the enlightening review!

[kandscreeley]

As long as the book is biblical, I love historical fiction based on what little we know about these characters. Paul was such an important member of the early church; I would love to learn more about him. So glad this is one is done so well. I'll look into it.

[Brendan Donaghy]

Paul is an interesting character from a historical perspective, whether one is particularly religious or not. I'm glad this book seems to do justice to his story. Thanks for the review!

[Ellylion]

Thank you for this excellent review! I would like to learn more about Saint Paul, his younger years and background. This books seems to be very informative and even educational.

[Meg98]

Very well written review. I like that you included that this book does not exclude non-christians, which is interesting to hear. From your review, it seems that there is a unique balance of factual evidence and fiction. Discovering more about Paul is something that has now piqued my interest, and I just might read this book. Well done!

[Creator22]

Paul was an interesting apostle that's for sure. I would obviously love to know his life journey and this book seems like the perfect resource so far. Thank you for your thorough review.

[Bluebird03]

I love that this book fills in some of the gaps about Saul. Also, the history, war and rebellion parts should make this book appeal to many. Thank you for a great review!

[briellejee]

Sounds like this book is perfect for Christians and for historical fiction lovers. I, for one, liked that this has great character development. Thanks for a thorough review!

[Nisha Ward]

Argh. As much as I'd love to read this, and as much as I love historical fiction based on the Bible, I'm gonna pass. Paul is the one person I have little interest in and I'm not really into reading about him.