In 'The Damascus Way,' Sandstorms Well up Like Desert Tsunamis (Review)

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In 'The Damascus Way,' Sandstorms Well up Like Desert Tsunamis (Review)

By Mary A. Hake

Guest Reviewer

Davis Bunn and Janette Oke, two of my favorite authors, present an authentic-feeling story fleshed out from the book of Acts. Readers experience the life and struggles of the early church as followers of the Way face increasing persecution. Travelling also brings dangers such as merciless bandits and fierce sandstorms, which well up like desert tsunamis that continue for days.

This compelling novel stands well on its own, even though it is the third in a series and continues the saga of some of the characters from previous books. The Damascus Way focuses mainly on Julia, daughter of a wealthy Greek merchant and a Hebrew mother. Throughout the tale, encounters with the Lord change lives. Even Roman soldiers are transformed by this Man of Peace.

As Julia said, "The closer we come to Jesus, the more we recognize his perfect love. And the more we see how far removed we are from this perfection. He calls to us with that love and forgiveness. He invites us to grow, to become more than we ever could be on our own." This book can assist in that process. I recommend the series. It has love, faith, adventure, history—all the elements of a good story.

Mary A. Hake is a freelance writer and editor, with hundreds of published pieces, including a Creation curriculum for children. She serves as president of Oregon Christian Writers and has helped with OCW conferences for many years. She is also chairman of her local Library Advisory Board and works in the library as needed. Her website is www.maryhake.com.