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Magi Apprentice
In the last decade before the ending of the period of time known as “B.C.”, Rassan, a privileged member of the Parthian military due to his late father, is sent to stop HeadmasterMagi Vinda Farnah from entering Jerusalem. He comes across the Magi, near death from bandits. Vinda calls Rassan by name and tells him of an angelic appearance.
This sets in motion a series of events marked by betrayal, loyalty, great discovery, and many obstacles. Rassan gives up his power and privilege in the military to become an apprentice to the Magi. A beautiful woman and powerful treacherous enemies stand in Rassan and Vinda's way, will they be able to solve the puzzle of the Creator’s Champion and learn for themselves who this power is?
Guided by the hand of the Creator himself, the answer seems inevitable, but the hardships will be very real.
The Magi Apprentice is historical fiction that will hold your attention and want you to keep reading right through to the end.
Join Rassan and Daraya-Vous today as they attempt to solve this great mystery!
This sets in motion a series of events marked by betrayal, loyalty, great discovery, and many obstacles. Rassan gives up his power and privilege in the military to become an apprentice to the Magi. A beautiful woman and powerful treacherous enemies stand in Rassan and Vinda's way, will they be able to solve the puzzle of the Creator’s Champion and learn for themselves who this power is?
Guided by the hand of the Creator himself, the answer seems inevitable, but the hardships will be very real.
The Magi Apprentice is historical fiction that will hold your attention and want you to keep reading right through to the end.
Join Rassan and Daraya-Vous today as they attempt to solve this great mystery!
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2023
8 people are currently reading
9 people want to read
About the author
Dan E. Hendrickson
10 books11 followersBorn in Sheridan Wyoming in 1962 near the rustic Big Horn mountain range , to Carl and Helen Hendrickson. Dan went to school in the Sheridan School District graduating from Sheridan High School in 1981. He was an avid participator in boxing, martial arts, wrestling and a little track. His father Carl owned a small eight lane bowling alley that he ran until Dan was 12 years old. Carl also had a masters degree in English and loved to write poetry and plays. Dan picked up on his fathers love for the written word and enrolled in Casper Community College in 1982 majoring in journalism. Although he found that he had an aptitude for investigative reporting he decided that his desires lied in other areas. He went on to do much volunteer Christian ministry work throughout the United States most of his adult life and continues to pursue those endeavors to this day. During that time he gained another degree in Practical Theology and throughout his many ministry assignments worked several secular jobs. Some of his work experience led him to being in law enforcement, security, emergency medical technician, and fire fighting. He also helped run a Martial Arts School where he was a senior instructor. Most notable of his work experience is his auto detailing endeavors. He and his wife Cheryl have owned three different detailing businesses throughout the country the last of which they still run to this day.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
September 12, 2023
From seasoned author Dan E. Hendrickson comes his eighth novel and his first based on Christianity, entitled Magi Apprentice. This book is the story of Rassan, a Parthian calvary cadet who is tasked with protecting the sacred star charts, delivering them to Babylon, and deciphering what they mean in relation to the birth of Jesus Christ.
The story begins in 7 B.C. as Rassan finds a destroyed caravan and a dying Magi. Before the Magi dies, an angel appears to him and instructs him to entrust Rassan with the sacred star charts that have been passed down from the first Magi Grandmaster Belshazzar. Rassan is commanded to protect these star charts at all costs and deliver them to Babylon to give to the new headmaster of the astronomical sect of the Magi.
Rassan then begins his apprenticeship under Headmaster Daraya-Vous as they work together to learn the significance of the series of astronomical configurations that occurred between 3 and 2 B.C. As Rassan is apprenticing under Headmaster Daraya-Vous, he begins taking an interest in Varaz, a priestess he meets in the market where she falsely presents herself as a merchant’s assistant. Rassan finds all his conversations with her incredibly stimulating, and he has to ask himself why he is so motivated to see and talk to her every day. The obvious answer comes to him almost immediately: that he is ready to take Varaz as his wife and needs to go about doing so the proper way. After speaking with General Bozan, his cousin and the temporary head of his family, General Bozan’s wife, and Headmaster Daraya-Vous about his wishes to seek a betrothal with Varaz, General Bozan agrees to draft a letter to Prince Phraates V detailing the situation and then to inquire with Varaz’s family regarding the conditions of the betrothal. However, the situation becomes complicated when Rassan learns that Varaz has not yet left the Temple and is still a priestess, which means that she cannot be married. After this deception by Varaz, Rassan has some big decisions to make regarding his studies and the woman he loves.
One of the highlights of the story is following along as Rassan prepares for a historical debate to clarify the true meaning of the zodiac and the divine message it conveys. Rassan will be presenting an argument that he learned from studying the sacred star charts passed down from the first Magi Grandmaster Belshazzar regarding the coming of the champion and savior, who will come to save the world. After Rassan’s presentation, it is clear that he has won over the judges and the majority of the audience members to his way of thinking. What follows is an epic pilgrimage to witness what is perhaps the greatest event in all of history.
Hendrickson’s story of the Magi finding Jesus in Bethlehem after his birth is historical fiction writing at its best. Hendrickson includes real-life historical figures, such as Prince Phraates V and Herod the Great while also creating believable characters to add to the story, such as Rassan and Varaz. He then interweaves an intricate, detailed narrative that seamlessly integrates his cast of characters while also keeping true to historical facts. History buffs, especially those with an interest in Christianity, will greatly appreciate Magi Apprentice.
It was also interesting that, as a reader who knew how this story would end, I still found myself anxiously awaiting the conclusion. The way Hendrickson brings it to a close brought chills down my spine as I read Rassan’s words when asked how he was feeling when the quest was about to be completed. The author did a superb job of painting a vivid picture for the reader during this epic, monumental conclusion.
Quill says: With Magi Apprentice, Hendrickson has written a historical fiction account of how the Magi found Jesus in Bethlehem that simply cannot be matched. This story has everything a reader could want in historical fiction: facts, historical figures, romance, and relatable characters, all culminating in an epic conclusion.
The story begins in 7 B.C. as Rassan finds a destroyed caravan and a dying Magi. Before the Magi dies, an angel appears to him and instructs him to entrust Rassan with the sacred star charts that have been passed down from the first Magi Grandmaster Belshazzar. Rassan is commanded to protect these star charts at all costs and deliver them to Babylon to give to the new headmaster of the astronomical sect of the Magi.
Rassan then begins his apprenticeship under Headmaster Daraya-Vous as they work together to learn the significance of the series of astronomical configurations that occurred between 3 and 2 B.C. As Rassan is apprenticing under Headmaster Daraya-Vous, he begins taking an interest in Varaz, a priestess he meets in the market where she falsely presents herself as a merchant’s assistant. Rassan finds all his conversations with her incredibly stimulating, and he has to ask himself why he is so motivated to see and talk to her every day. The obvious answer comes to him almost immediately: that he is ready to take Varaz as his wife and needs to go about doing so the proper way. After speaking with General Bozan, his cousin and the temporary head of his family, General Bozan’s wife, and Headmaster Daraya-Vous about his wishes to seek a betrothal with Varaz, General Bozan agrees to draft a letter to Prince Phraates V detailing the situation and then to inquire with Varaz’s family regarding the conditions of the betrothal. However, the situation becomes complicated when Rassan learns that Varaz has not yet left the Temple and is still a priestess, which means that she cannot be married. After this deception by Varaz, Rassan has some big decisions to make regarding his studies and the woman he loves.
One of the highlights of the story is following along as Rassan prepares for a historical debate to clarify the true meaning of the zodiac and the divine message it conveys. Rassan will be presenting an argument that he learned from studying the sacred star charts passed down from the first Magi Grandmaster Belshazzar regarding the coming of the champion and savior, who will come to save the world. After Rassan’s presentation, it is clear that he has won over the judges and the majority of the audience members to his way of thinking. What follows is an epic pilgrimage to witness what is perhaps the greatest event in all of history.
Hendrickson’s story of the Magi finding Jesus in Bethlehem after his birth is historical fiction writing at its best. Hendrickson includes real-life historical figures, such as Prince Phraates V and Herod the Great while also creating believable characters to add to the story, such as Rassan and Varaz. He then interweaves an intricate, detailed narrative that seamlessly integrates his cast of characters while also keeping true to historical facts. History buffs, especially those with an interest in Christianity, will greatly appreciate Magi Apprentice.
It was also interesting that, as a reader who knew how this story would end, I still found myself anxiously awaiting the conclusion. The way Hendrickson brings it to a close brought chills down my spine as I read Rassan’s words when asked how he was feeling when the quest was about to be completed. The author did a superb job of painting a vivid picture for the reader during this epic, monumental conclusion.
Quill says: With Magi Apprentice, Hendrickson has written a historical fiction account of how the Magi found Jesus in Bethlehem that simply cannot be matched. This story has everything a reader could want in historical fiction: facts, historical figures, romance, and relatable characters, all culminating in an epic conclusion.
November 4, 2023
Magi Apprentice by Dan E. Hendrickson
Adventure, mystery, and a little more
A historical fiction story in this book tells us about a man Rassan who was sent to stop the Magi from entering Jerusalem, when he gets there he is so astonished by the Magi that he leaves all his military privileges and power to become a Magi apprentice, he will find obstacles and many adventures that will try to get him apart from what he wants but at the end will he find the enigma of the great mystery? That will be the point. An entertaining read, that will for sure delight you as it did to me.
Adventure, mystery, and a little more
A historical fiction story in this book tells us about a man Rassan who was sent to stop the Magi from entering Jerusalem, when he gets there he is so astonished by the Magi that he leaves all his military privileges and power to become a Magi apprentice, he will find obstacles and many adventures that will try to get him apart from what he wants but at the end will he find the enigma of the great mystery? That will be the point. An entertaining read, that will for sure delight you as it did to me.
November 5, 2023
I've read all of Dan's other books and was used to the action and non-stop twists that he builds into his writings so I wasn't sure if that was going to translate into a story about people looking at stars. But as it turns out, Dan's imagination far exceeded my own once again as there's excitement on every page. Although it's a fictional book you can tell it's loosely based on the story of the magi who went to seek out Jesus Christ and what they may have went thru leading up to that journey. There also is an abundance of historical figures and settings that are true to life, so it's evident that Dan did a lot of research while writing this book. As for the main character, Rassan, it's hard not to cheer for him during his victories and mourn for him during his defeats. But to find out what actually happens to him you'll have to start reading....
November 8, 2023
Magi Apprentice' is a fictional tale with many historical elements. It is a well-written story and the romance above all makes it a much enjoyable read. I recommend this book to those who like to read action adventure and novel tales.
December 13, 2023
El libro 'Magi Apprentice' de Dan E. Hendrickson es una emocionante y cautivadora historia que transporta al lector a un mundo lleno de magia y aventuras. Con una narrativa fluida y personajes bien desarrollados, el autor logra crear una trama llena de intriga y misterio que te mantendrá enganchado desde la primera página hasta la última.
La protagonista, una joven aprendiz de maga, nos guía a través de su viaje de autodescubrimiento y superación personal mientras se enfrenta a desafíos cada vez más grandes. Hendrickson logra capturar a la perfección las emociones y los dilemas internos de la protagonista, lo que hace que nos identifiquemos con ella y nos sumerjamos por completa en su historia.
Además, el autor ha creado un mundo mágico vívidamente detallado y lleno de elementos sorprendentes. La forma en que describen los hechizos y la magia en general es fascinante y te hace desear poder ser parte de ese mundo.
'Magi Apprentice' es un libro que combina elementos de fantasía, acción y drama de manera magistral. La trama avanza a un ritmo perfecto, manteniendo la tensión en todo momento y sorprendiendo al lector en cada giro inesperado.
En resumen, 'Magi Apprentice' es una novela que no puedes dejar de leer. Dan E. Hendrickson demuestra su habilidad para contar historias emocionantes y envolventes, creando un universo mágico lleno de personajes fascinantes y momentos inolvidables. Si eres amante de la fantasía y la magia, este libro definitivamente debe estar en tu lista de lecturas imprescindibles.
La protagonista, una joven aprendiz de maga, nos guía a través de su viaje de autodescubrimiento y superación personal mientras se enfrenta a desafíos cada vez más grandes. Hendrickson logra capturar a la perfección las emociones y los dilemas internos de la protagonista, lo que hace que nos identifiquemos con ella y nos sumerjamos por completa en su historia.
Además, el autor ha creado un mundo mágico vívidamente detallado y lleno de elementos sorprendentes. La forma en que describen los hechizos y la magia en general es fascinante y te hace desear poder ser parte de ese mundo.
'Magi Apprentice' es un libro que combina elementos de fantasía, acción y drama de manera magistral. La trama avanza a un ritmo perfecto, manteniendo la tensión en todo momento y sorprendiendo al lector en cada giro inesperado.
En resumen, 'Magi Apprentice' es una novela que no puedes dejar de leer. Dan E. Hendrickson demuestra su habilidad para contar historias emocionantes y envolventes, creando un universo mágico lleno de personajes fascinantes y momentos inolvidables. Si eres amante de la fantasía y la magia, este libro definitivamente debe estar en tu lista de lecturas imprescindibles.
April 19, 2024
The Magi Apprentice is A Book by Dan E. Hendrickson that has taken as back to biblical times and expounded on one the many things that happened behind the scenes. This is achieved through Rassan who is thrown into a quest that he himself would never have partaken if logic prevailed. But through the book we see him grow as he interacts with other characters while trying to balance religion and politics while battling doubt. And through him we see the blooming of one the greatest feats in the Bible.
One of my positives on the book is that the author took as through this biblical journey without making the story repetitive hence one action does not appear more than twice through out the whole book. This ensures that you will be hooked from start to finish as every event is unique in it`s own way. My other favorite about the book is the sense vivid description on some matters which ensures that even if you have no prior knowledge you are able to follow. When the author is describing star reading you do not have to be astronomer to understand how things work. The other thing which sealed the deal for me is when you see the author incorporating the scripture which shows the he knows his work, hence as a Christian I do not find it to be misleading on my belief. In overall the plot is well written and your are always hooked. You also get to interact with the characters on a more personal level as you know what they go through is not far fetched in our daily lives.
The negative is that title of the book is very suggestive as off initial interpretation I thought this book was a fantasy all about wizards and witches. This is based on my view.
Apart from that one negative this book to me was very interesting and I would recommend it to any one who is willing to learn about what happened behind the scenes on one of the many biblical stories. I would also recommend to the Christian readers on who I believe were the intended readers to keep an open mind as the book might as well add something to their lives
One of my positives on the book is that the author took as through this biblical journey without making the story repetitive hence one action does not appear more than twice through out the whole book. This ensures that you will be hooked from start to finish as every event is unique in it`s own way. My other favorite about the book is the sense vivid description on some matters which ensures that even if you have no prior knowledge you are able to follow. When the author is describing star reading you do not have to be astronomer to understand how things work. The other thing which sealed the deal for me is when you see the author incorporating the scripture which shows the he knows his work, hence as a Christian I do not find it to be misleading on my belief. In overall the plot is well written and your are always hooked. You also get to interact with the characters on a more personal level as you know what they go through is not far fetched in our daily lives.
The negative is that title of the book is very suggestive as off initial interpretation I thought this book was a fantasy all about wizards and witches. This is based on my view.
Apart from that one negative this book to me was very interesting and I would recommend it to any one who is willing to learn about what happened behind the scenes on one of the many biblical stories. I would also recommend to the Christian readers on who I believe were the intended readers to keep an open mind as the book might as well add something to their lives
Read
December 11, 2023In Magi Apprentice, Dan Hendrickson masterfully transports readers to the intriguing world of the Parthian Empire and the Nabatean Kingdom during the last decade before the common era. Against this historical backdrop, a group of men, tracing their celestial wisdom to the Hebrew prophet Daniel, embarks on a perilous journey fueled by the sighting of 'His Star,' heralding the birth of the promised Messiah. The narrative centers on Rassan, a young cavalry officer, whose privileged position in Parthia's hierarchy clashes with his divine calling as a Magi Apprentice.
The story weaves a gripping tale of self-discovery, sacrifice, and unwavering faith as Rassan grapples with betrayal, murder attempts, and the theft of sacred star charts. As the astronomical sect faces internal and external threats, the narrative builds tension and excitement. The vivid descriptions of celestial events, coupled with political intrigue, create a rich tapestry that immerses readers in the ancient world.
As the story climaxes with the long-awaited conjunctions in 3 B.C., the author skillfully navigates treacherous obstacles and delivers a satisfying resolution. Magi Apprentice is a captivating historical fiction that blends celestial wonders with human drama, offering readers a riveting journey through faith, friendship, and the pursuit of destiny.
The story weaves a gripping tale of self-discovery, sacrifice, and unwavering faith as Rassan grapples with betrayal, murder attempts, and the theft of sacred star charts. As the astronomical sect faces internal and external threats, the narrative builds tension and excitement. The vivid descriptions of celestial events, coupled with political intrigue, create a rich tapestry that immerses readers in the ancient world.
As the story climaxes with the long-awaited conjunctions in 3 B.C., the author skillfully navigates treacherous obstacles and delivers a satisfying resolution. Magi Apprentice is a captivating historical fiction that blends celestial wonders with human drama, offering readers a riveting journey through faith, friendship, and the pursuit of destiny.
October 31, 2023
I have read all of Dan Hendrickson's books, and in my opinion, Magi Apprentice, is one of his best to date! Not only are we treated to a captivating fictional account of the "Wise Men" who traveled to Bethlehem to see Jesus Christ, the author brings his 35 years of Christian ministerial training to bear on the subject. Citing many sources and providing detailed footnotes, he shows us that God announced the birth of his son in the stars. That is how the Magi were able to find him. Historical fiction is woven together with Biblical accuracy into a well written tapestry that we can all appreciate. I loved the clear explanation of the constellations the Magi saw that told them where to find the Christ. The detailed historical background combined with well-developed characters and an exciting plot are all hallmarks of Mr. Hendrickson's work. I highly recommend the book. Not only is it a great piece of historical fiction, it helps one gain a greater appreciation for the accuracy of the Bible. It is a "good read" for sure!
November 8, 2023
"Magi Apprentice" by Dan E. Hendrickson offers an engaging mix of history and mysticism. In the late years before B.C., Rassan, a Parthian military member, embarks on a mission to stop the Magi from entering Jerusalem. However, when he encounters the wounded Magi Vinda Farnah, his life takes an unexpected turn. The story unfolds with themes of betrayal, loyalty, and profound discovery. Rassan's journey from privilege to apprentice to the Magi is filled with obstacles, including a treacherous enemy and a mysterious champion. Guided by a higher power, the characters strive to unravel the puzzle. Hendrickson's historical fiction keeps readers captivated until the very end, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy mysteries with a historical twist. Join Rassan and Daraya-Vous as they embark on this intriguing journey of discovery.
November 11, 2023
"Magi Apprentice" by Dan E. Hendrickson unfolds a captivating historical fiction narrative that introduces us to Rassan, a man with a mission to thwart the Magi from entering Jerusalem.
However, the story takes an unexpected turn when he is mesmerized by the enigmatic Magi, ultimately relinquishing his military power to become their apprentice. Throughout his journey, Rassan faces myriad obstacles and adventures that test his resolve.
This well-written book explores themes of faith, destiny, and human determination against a rich historical backdrop, making it an enthralling and engaging read. The story's blend of mystery and adventure keeps the reader eagerly turning the pages in search of ultimate revelations. "Magi Apprentice" is a compelling and delightful tale that will undoubtedly captivate readers. Highly recommended.
However, the story takes an unexpected turn when he is mesmerized by the enigmatic Magi, ultimately relinquishing his military power to become their apprentice. Throughout his journey, Rassan faces myriad obstacles and adventures that test his resolve.
This well-written book explores themes of faith, destiny, and human determination against a rich historical backdrop, making it an enthralling and engaging read. The story's blend of mystery and adventure keeps the reader eagerly turning the pages in search of ultimate revelations. "Magi Apprentice" is a compelling and delightful tale that will undoubtedly captivate readers. Highly recommended.
December 6, 2023
I liked it a lot
The author immerses readers in a gripping historical journey. Set against the backdrop of the waning B.C. era, this tale weaves together themes of sacrifice, discovery, and unwavering determination. Rassan, torn between privilege and a newfound calling, abandons military prestige to pursue enlightenment under Magi Vinda's tutelage. Hendrickson crafts a compelling narrative marked by betrayal, love, and formidable adversaries, painting a vivid landscape of ancient intrigue. The quest for the Creator's Champion unfolds with captivating twists, propelled by the characters' resilience. "Magi Apprentice" enthralls with its blend of history and mystique, beckoning readers to unravel this enthralling mystery alongside Rassan and Daraya-Vous.
The author immerses readers in a gripping historical journey. Set against the backdrop of the waning B.C. era, this tale weaves together themes of sacrifice, discovery, and unwavering determination. Rassan, torn between privilege and a newfound calling, abandons military prestige to pursue enlightenment under Magi Vinda's tutelage. Hendrickson crafts a compelling narrative marked by betrayal, love, and formidable adversaries, painting a vivid landscape of ancient intrigue. The quest for the Creator's Champion unfolds with captivating twists, propelled by the characters' resilience. "Magi Apprentice" enthralls with its blend of history and mystique, beckoning readers to unravel this enthralling mystery alongside Rassan and Daraya-Vous.
November 22, 2023
"Magi Apprentice" by Dan E. Hendrickson is a well-written story that combines historical fiction and Biblical stories to tell us the narrative of Rassan. Rassan lives at the time when Magi are entering Jerusalem, and his military role is to keep them out. But when he meets the group, his life takes a different path. He must decide whether his military background and principles will lead his fate, or whether he should turn away from all he knows and take a leap of faith to become the Magi's apprentice. Along the way, he faces obstacles and must learn to lean on faith in his Creator to overcome his challenges.
November 24, 2023
Magi Apprentice is an immersive, mysterious and evocative well-written historical fiction which is, at the same time, factual in its history and nuanced in its creativity. The author acknowledges the different types of readers and crafted a narrative that appeals to all sorts of tastes.
The storyline is truly captivating; all the events unfold smoothly and steadily and the characters are engaging and they sparkle in energy and wisdom.
The cover is also something that I would like to highlight. I must confess that it was the first thing that caught my attention. It is colorful, enlightening and it even seems to radiate positive vibes and energy. I loved this book!
The storyline is truly captivating; all the events unfold smoothly and steadily and the characters are engaging and they sparkle in energy and wisdom.
The cover is also something that I would like to highlight. I must confess that it was the first thing that caught my attention. It is colorful, enlightening and it even seems to radiate positive vibes and energy. I loved this book!
November 7, 2023
“Magi Apprentice” is a compelling blend of historical fiction, spiritual intrigue, and human determination, making it an intriguing read that explores the complexities of faith and destiny. The mysterious journey of Rassan and Vinda, set against the backdrop of ancient times, adds an element of mystery and adventure, which made the book highly engaging and captivating. This was a definite page turner, as I was highly eager to keep reading, wanting to uncover the story's ultimate revelations.
December 18, 2023
It is interesting that,as a reader who knew how this story would end I still find myself patiently waiting for the conclusion.the author did a super great job of showing viewing a vivid picture for the readers during this epic,monumental conclusions.Hendrickson has written a historical fiction,this story has everything a reader would want in a fiction historical.examples ,romance,relatable characters etc.
November 11, 2023
The book gives an insight into the lives of the Magi who made the promised journey to visit Jesus Christ at His birth. The book presents an enriching and enlightning sequence of events where the interaction with the Son of God is fleeting but memorable, but the preparation before and after is significant.
July 22, 2024
I like how the characters' actions make sense in this world of zodiac-studying and politicking. All of them have agency and distinct motivations. Readers who enjoy the Old Testament of the Bible would find this story a rewarding experience. I also learned a lot about astronomy (I never heard of it before reading this book).
April 10, 2024
Fantastic book! Definitely played on my heartstrings with all dexterity and affection as a harpist to his instrument. A retelling of a wonderful story.... From an interesting point of view. Well done, Dan. Well done🥳
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2023
it's an awesome book.
May 14, 2024
I really enjoyed how the author combined Biblical truth, and historical facts to produce this story. I liked learning more about the cultures and seeing the characters develop.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews