The Scroll

The Scroll

Grant R. Jeffrey

Alton L. Gansky

Waterbrook Press

September 2011

Having left his faith behind in Herod's tunnel, Dr. David Chambers, leading archaeologist, forges a new path, one that doesn't involve a God whom he believes has forgotten him. Perfectly content, he now spends his time  teaching at one of Boston's most prestigious schools. But digging is a part of who he is, and he yearns to be under ground, discovering something yet to be found. Heartlessly he decides to pursue the Olmec's, something much safer than biblical digs. As he picks up the receiver to call in a few favors, HaShem decides to have someone call him.

Before he can even decide if he has made the right choice, he finds himself on a plane to Jerusalem, at the invitation of his old and well loved friend, Ben-Judah.  Discovering who will be at the dig sites with him, almost sends him packing. And it won't be the first time he lets his new found temper get the best of him. But when things start to heat up, he finds himself in the middle of what could start a war in the middle east. Dr. Chambers has to choose if he will let the hurts of his past, his lost love, his seemingly uncaring dad; decide who he becomes today. Does he still love his former fiance? Will he stay with this project that is shrouded in secrecy and threatened with uncertainty?  Will he Let God back in?

In a race against danger and towards love, Chambers finds a lot more than artifacts. Things he wasn't seeking. Perhaps it was they that found him.

I enjoyed this book, being that is was different from a lot of books I have previously read. I did find a little bit of cheesy dialog at times (which I have to admit I find often in Christian fiction). But it doesn't negate the authors ability to draw you into his story. This book would be a great read for someone who is interested in the biblical and political history of Jerusalem. The authors are very detailed in their research, so be prepared to learn a lot while you are enjoying the story. I did feel that the story had quite an abrupt ending. I was hoping for there to be a little more development and excitement before the epilogue.  But I would still recommend this book to modern/historical fiction fans.