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Façade Saga #1
The Façade
Haunted by his parents’ death and his career failures, Dr. Brian Scott has begun to settle for the life he’s been given.
Until he’s “recruited,” that is.
Kidnapped by military insiders known as “The Group,” Brian joins a team of world-class scholars working on an above-top-secret initiative. Their mission? To prepare mankind for a new reality. “They” are here.
Among Brian’s fellow recruits are the beautiful yet hostile Dr. Melissa Kelley and the enigmatic Father Andrew Benedict, whose prophetic nature clashes with Brian’s paranoia. As the team is briefed on the government’s involvement with extraterrestrials, strange things begin to happen. Disappearances. Visitations. Murder. Something isn’t right.
The closer Brian and the team get to the truth, the more they realize that no one is safe, and no one can be trusted.
Unpeeling layer after layer of deception and counter-deception, Brian moves toward a shocking revelation that will forever alter how mankind sees itself.
Mike Heiser is currently writing his Ph.D. dissertation in Hebrew Bible and Ancient Semitic Languages at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He holds an M.A. in Ancient History from an ivy-league institution, the University of Pennsylvania (major fields, Ancient Israel and Egyptology), and another M.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison (Hebrew Bible and Ancient Semitic Languages). Mike is the recipient of several academic awards, and has written scholarly articles for several prestigious journals. Mike has taught theology, biblical studies, and world civilizations at the undergraduate level since 1992. Besides his formal academic training, Mike has had a life-long interest in the paranormal, particularly the UFO phenomenon. He is uniquely qualified to write on the intersection of ufology with ancient texts and mainstream religion. Mike currently resides in Madison, Wisconsin. He and his wife Drenna have three children. For more information on The Facade, see www.facadethebook.com.
Until he’s “recruited,” that is.
Kidnapped by military insiders known as “The Group,” Brian joins a team of world-class scholars working on an above-top-secret initiative. Their mission? To prepare mankind for a new reality. “They” are here.
Among Brian’s fellow recruits are the beautiful yet hostile Dr. Melissa Kelley and the enigmatic Father Andrew Benedict, whose prophetic nature clashes with Brian’s paranoia. As the team is briefed on the government’s involvement with extraterrestrials, strange things begin to happen. Disappearances. Visitations. Murder. Something isn’t right.
The closer Brian and the team get to the truth, the more they realize that no one is safe, and no one can be trusted.
Unpeeling layer after layer of deception and counter-deception, Brian moves toward a shocking revelation that will forever alter how mankind sees itself.
Mike Heiser is currently writing his Ph.D. dissertation in Hebrew Bible and Ancient Semitic Languages at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He holds an M.A. in Ancient History from an ivy-league institution, the University of Pennsylvania (major fields, Ancient Israel and Egyptology), and another M.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison (Hebrew Bible and Ancient Semitic Languages). Mike is the recipient of several academic awards, and has written scholarly articles for several prestigious journals. Mike has taught theology, biblical studies, and world civilizations at the undergraduate level since 1992. Besides his formal academic training, Mike has had a life-long interest in the paranormal, particularly the UFO phenomenon. He is uniquely qualified to write on the intersection of ufology with ancient texts and mainstream religion. Mike currently resides in Madison, Wisconsin. He and his wife Drenna have three children. For more information on The Facade, see www.facadethebook.com.
524 pages, Paperback
First published January 29, 2001
246 people are currently reading
697 people want to read
About the author
Michael S. Heiser
63 books924 followersMike Heiser is a scholar in the fields of biblical studies and the ancient Near East. He is the Academic Editor of Logos Bible Software. Mike earned the M.A. and Ph.D. in Hebrew Bible and Semitic Languages at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2004. He has also earned an M.A. in Ancient History from the University of Pennsylvania (major fields: Ancient Israel and Egyptology). His main research interests are Israelite religion (especially Israel’s divine council), biblical theology, ancient Near Eastern religion, biblical & ancient Semitic languages, and ancient Jewish binitarian monotheism.
Mike blogs about biblical studies at The Naked Bible, and fringe beliefs about the ancient world at PaleoBabble. He offers courses to the public in Old Testament, biblical theology, Israelite religion, ancient languages, the Book of Enoch through his online institute, MEMRA.
Mike's other academic interests include the paranormal and the occult. His UFO Religions blog discusses how the pop cultural belief in aliens shape religious worldviews. Mike has been a frequent guest on a number of radio programs such as Coast to Coast AM. He is best known for his critique of the ancient astronaut theories of Zecharia Sitchin and his paranormal thriller, The Facade, which intertwines many of his interests.
Mike blogs about biblical studies at The Naked Bible, and fringe beliefs about the ancient world at PaleoBabble. He offers courses to the public in Old Testament, biblical theology, Israelite religion, ancient languages, the Book of Enoch through his online institute, MEMRA.
Mike's other academic interests include the paranormal and the occult. His UFO Religions blog discusses how the pop cultural belief in aliens shape religious worldviews. Mike has been a frequent guest on a number of radio programs such as Coast to Coast AM. He is best known for his critique of the ancient astronaut theories of Zecharia Sitchin and his paranormal thriller, The Facade, which intertwines many of his interests.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
January 26, 2014
This is the only fiction novel in the list – but it’s not total fiction. Heiser has taken fact and woven it into gripping modern fictional story. Take this as you may but the increase UFO and alien activity on the earth in the past 100 years has greatly increased and has leaked into the mainstream in a massive way. Notice the genre of other-race movies released, abduction accounts documented, the increase of bizarre supernatural activity across the earth. Much of the church has laughed it off and turned a blind eye – and they’ve been able too because very few effected people have felt it safe to share their stories, beliefs and personal traumatic experiences in fear they’ll be laughed at or sent to a psych ward. Those of us who work in the arena of prayer ministry, counselling and deliverance know this is not fiction or Hollywood creativity. It’s real and scripture has answers through Christ. Some people love and are largely attracted to the conspiracy arena but I don’t feel this is where Heiser writes from. This book opened my eyes to a lot of things and along with the Myth That is True (5) I have really come to appreciate and get solid answers for some of the things that could have otherwise left me feeling numb, dumb and overcome.
May 20, 2024
I was really surprised with how good this one was! I was saddened to learn that Micheal Heiser passed away just a few weeks ago. I did not expect such a good novel to be written by a Hebrew Scholar!
The book is a Sci-fi/Alien/Paranormal/Theological/Spy/Mystery/Thriller. It has so many plot twists that I wasn’t sure where it was going, and was still surprised right up till the very end!
Heiser has created a truly compelling story! Indeed it’s so compelling that there are reviews of his book by conspiracy theorists who believe it is largely an accurate portrayal of the world as it truly is. It makes things all the more creepy that every document referred to or quoted from are real documents, and so are all the quotes throughout. I found myself shocked at some of the texts referenced in the book (needing to look them up just to be sure) and I found the read all the more compelling because of them.
This book contains much that is also in the author’s popular theological work: The Unseen Realm (which I also happen to be reading). Much in that book that I found difficult is presented here in a more popular form, and might be easier for readers who aren’t as accustomed to reading theology. (I’m not completely sold on Heiser’s theories yet - the jury’s still out for me (- but then, I’m only halfway through UR.))
All in all this was a 4.5 star read for me. High marks for the compelling narrative that Heiser made to align with real ancient texts and real modern government documents. The story was so compelling that I’m overlooking some of the other elements that were a little more rough around the edges. In the hands of a really able fiction writer this incredible narrative likely could have been even better than it was (I thought that the characters and dialogue wasn’t done as well as a typical great fiction book - but it wasn’t bad by any means). [Also the audio narration was a bit choppy at points. This may have been one of Lexham Press’s first audio productions.]
Extremely good! And just enough of the creepy element to have me a little bit creeped out if I was listening at night.
Top Modern Day Series by Algorithm List
The book is a Sci-fi/Alien/Paranormal/Theological/Spy/Mystery/Thriller. It has so many plot twists that I wasn’t sure where it was going, and was still surprised right up till the very end!
Heiser has created a truly compelling story! Indeed it’s so compelling that there are reviews of his book by conspiracy theorists who believe it is largely an accurate portrayal of the world as it truly is. It makes things all the more creepy that every document referred to or quoted from are real documents, and so are all the quotes throughout. I found myself shocked at some of the texts referenced in the book (needing to look them up just to be sure) and I found the read all the more compelling because of them.
This book contains much that is also in the author’s popular theological work: The Unseen Realm (which I also happen to be reading). Much in that book that I found difficult is presented here in a more popular form, and might be easier for readers who aren’t as accustomed to reading theology. (I’m not completely sold on Heiser’s theories yet - the jury’s still out for me (- but then, I’m only halfway through UR.))
All in all this was a 4.5 star read for me. High marks for the compelling narrative that Heiser made to align with real ancient texts and real modern government documents. The story was so compelling that I’m overlooking some of the other elements that were a little more rough around the edges. In the hands of a really able fiction writer this incredible narrative likely could have been even better than it was (I thought that the characters and dialogue wasn’t done as well as a typical great fiction book - but it wasn’t bad by any means). [Also the audio narration was a bit choppy at points. This may have been one of Lexham Press’s first audio productions.]
Extremely good! And just enough of the creepy element to have me a little bit creeped out if I was listening at night.
Top Modern Day Series by Algorithm List
March 22, 2017
Didn't know what to expect when I dived into this book. The major motivator for me to read another Michael Heiser was his paradigm-shifting The Unseen Realm. Many of the chapters were set in one location (Area 51) and that took away from the excitement of the story.
I liked the self-effacing character of Brian Scott the most and I can't wait to see how his relationship continued with Dr. Melissa.
Very nice read I must say.
I liked the self-effacing character of Brian Scott the most and I can't wait to see how his relationship continued with Dr. Melissa.
Very nice read I must say.
February 1, 2025
I was interested in reading this book because it is an apocalyptic thriller (the same genre that I write currently). The prologue opens with written explanation (which seems like a biblical, nonfiction material or dissertation on nephilims).
The Facade has the suspense, mystery, and the syfy X-Files feel to it since twelve people were brought out to the Group in the Facility for government purposes and can be easily removed if necessary. However, there's a traitor among the camp, or is it a mole? I am delving into the story to see where this is going and how all these people play a part in the book to solve the case, if this is the case.
As I started reading the book, I loved the emotions evoked, suspense of a dark being in the room after discussing about his artifacts and dealing with customs in Iraq, and engaging dialogue. Slightly further in the story, once they are with the Group and in the Facility, there is rumors about extraterrestrial life forms and mad cow disease going on with a debriefing on the subject which started losing me in the storyline. Early on, I thought it was on spiritual dark beings... His writing style is good, but then he encompasses so much 1947/50s insight from alien sightings and other scientific measures while I am waiting for the plot to thicken and reveal some loose ends I read in the earlier chapters. I hope the conclusions will unfold, not leave me hanging in a 524 paged book.
It was an explosive beginning and ending! Some would argue that there was an overkill on historical, paranormal UFO, scientific, and even religious jargon and information but I enjoyed the history and religious concepts overall. He had me sitting in my seat, shouting, "Watchers are what...really!" At the end, you can see how the author tackled his first fiction novel since he normally writes nonfiction and bio tells more specifically his areas of study. It was quite intriguing to see how he worked several jobs, writing his PHD dissertation, while writing this novel within 6 months! I cannot wait to read his sequel to "The Facade" which is entitled "The Portent" and so eagerly to read it.
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for a book review on LibraryThing.
Adrienna Turner
Author of "God is in the Equation"
(Dream 4 More Reviews)
The Facade has the suspense, mystery, and the syfy X-Files feel to it since twelve people were brought out to the Group in the Facility for government purposes and can be easily removed if necessary. However, there's a traitor among the camp, or is it a mole? I am delving into the story to see where this is going and how all these people play a part in the book to solve the case, if this is the case.
As I started reading the book, I loved the emotions evoked, suspense of a dark being in the room after discussing about his artifacts and dealing with customs in Iraq, and engaging dialogue. Slightly further in the story, once they are with the Group and in the Facility, there is rumors about extraterrestrial life forms and mad cow disease going on with a debriefing on the subject which started losing me in the storyline. Early on, I thought it was on spiritual dark beings... His writing style is good, but then he encompasses so much 1947/50s insight from alien sightings and other scientific measures while I am waiting for the plot to thicken and reveal some loose ends I read in the earlier chapters. I hope the conclusions will unfold, not leave me hanging in a 524 paged book.
It was an explosive beginning and ending! Some would argue that there was an overkill on historical, paranormal UFO, scientific, and even religious jargon and information but I enjoyed the history and religious concepts overall. He had me sitting in my seat, shouting, "Watchers are what...really!" At the end, you can see how the author tackled his first fiction novel since he normally writes nonfiction and bio tells more specifically his areas of study. It was quite intriguing to see how he worked several jobs, writing his PHD dissertation, while writing this novel within 6 months! I cannot wait to read his sequel to "The Facade" which is entitled "The Portent" and so eagerly to read it.
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for a book review on LibraryThing.
Adrienna Turner
Author of "God is in the Equation"
(Dream 4 More Reviews)
February 5, 2019
Heiser, Michael. The Facade.
I wasn’t sure what to expect. Theologians don’t really have a reputation as novelists. Further, I knew this book had an “X Files” vibe to it. That’s not necessarily a fault, as X Files is the greatest show of all time. Still, I wasn’t wanting to read Mulder fanfiction (which isn’t a bad idea). This book, however, exceeded all expectations.
Of course, Heiser delivered on scope and vision. That’s a given. Along those lines, the book raises questions: “If presented with ‘evidence’ of extraterrestrial life, how would you do theology?” What does that mean for image of God? Is image of God merely a set of metaphysical properties, or is a function (bet’ of predication) of royal dominion?
All of that is well and good, but does the “story” work? Yes. Heiser does a great job with dialogue and suspense, and the book ends with a cliffhanger.
What is the story? Again, that X Files vibe (but by the end of the book you have long since forgotten about the X Files). There is a shadow govt group that either contacts extraterrestrials or engages in disinformation. Enter MJ-12, Paperclip, and all the other dark spots on America’s reputation.
Some might quibble on why a shadow govt would need a Semitics scholar. Perhaps that’s the only suspension of disbelief required. The rest is basic facts.
Heiser tells the story of Dr Brian Scott, a down on his luck Semitics scholar who doesn’t have any friends in life. His life is turned upside down when he is forced to work at a secret govt facility dealing with the possible aftershocks of “alien disclosure.”
The book is fantastic. The character development is very moving.
I wasn’t sure what to expect. Theologians don’t really have a reputation as novelists. Further, I knew this book had an “X Files” vibe to it. That’s not necessarily a fault, as X Files is the greatest show of all time. Still, I wasn’t wanting to read Mulder fanfiction (which isn’t a bad idea). This book, however, exceeded all expectations.
Of course, Heiser delivered on scope and vision. That’s a given. Along those lines, the book raises questions: “If presented with ‘evidence’ of extraterrestrial life, how would you do theology?” What does that mean for image of God? Is image of God merely a set of metaphysical properties, or is a function (bet’ of predication) of royal dominion?
All of that is well and good, but does the “story” work? Yes. Heiser does a great job with dialogue and suspense, and the book ends with a cliffhanger.
What is the story? Again, that X Files vibe (but by the end of the book you have long since forgotten about the X Files). There is a shadow govt group that either contacts extraterrestrials or engages in disinformation. Enter MJ-12, Paperclip, and all the other dark spots on America’s reputation.
Some might quibble on why a shadow govt would need a Semitics scholar. Perhaps that’s the only suspension of disbelief required. The rest is basic facts.
Heiser tells the story of Dr Brian Scott, a down on his luck Semitics scholar who doesn’t have any friends in life. His life is turned upside down when he is forced to work at a secret govt facility dealing with the possible aftershocks of “alien disclosure.”
The book is fantastic. The character development is very moving.
August 15, 2023
**Update**
In light of the whole U.S. government conspiracy surrounding the discovery of “non-human” biologics from UFO crash sites, this book now becomes a must read. What I once thought fiction is looking truer and truer. If only Heiser was alive to see those late July headlines. This book has some neat potential thoughts on such events. Again, still fiction but freaky.
Good story. If you like Heiser or Blurry Creatures you’ll love this story.
In light of the whole U.S. government conspiracy surrounding the discovery of “non-human” biologics from UFO crash sites, this book now becomes a must read. What I once thought fiction is looking truer and truer. If only Heiser was alive to see those late July headlines. This book has some neat potential thoughts on such events. Again, still fiction but freaky.
Good story. If you like Heiser or Blurry Creatures you’ll love this story.
July 23, 2014
Book Review of The Facade; Special Edition (Kindle)
Heiser says that this his first novel was written while he was in the ABD stage of his Ph.D program. Since he had personal interest in many of the subjects that are included in the story: ancient history, Semitic languages, biblical studies, theology, paranormal and parapsychological topics (especially UFOs), a chance encounter where an Air Force officer explained the Roswell event with something that he "knew" to be false. He also places a "Note to the Reader" just before the story begins that tells us that all historical figures and quotations attributed to them are real and genuine, that every document whether modern or ancient is authentic and real.
The Prologue which follows establishes a rather idiosyncratic view of the Bible, that is, that there are multiple gods found in it.According to his view, they are referred to in several places and that in Genesis 6, they had sex with human women and produced giants, known in Hebrew as nephilim. The Noahic Flood was meant to kill them but did not, as they were reborn. After the Flood, others in God's ancient council also broke ranks with God and produced other hybrid races on earth. That these giants did exist, according to the Bible, I do not disagree. Their source, however, is a matter of pure conjecture on Heiser's part. Although his knowledge of the original languages vastly exceeds my own (I know of Hebrew and Aramaic as being the two languages that the Old Testament is written in...and no more than that! While his degree and subsequent employment by arguably the largest current Bible software producer will prove his expertise in those issues, I too have studied the Bible both devotionally and as a minister. I can say because of that study that his view is not at all orthodox.)
From that rocky beginning, and with the experience of Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code still fresh in my mind, his Note to the Reader raised my skepticism to new heights. Heiser, like Brown before him, seems to want the reader to grant credence to his story greater than what the actual facts ought to warrant.
But, I am also a fan of the science fiction genre and, due to receiving my copy through the Early Reviewer program at librarything.com, am required to write my review for publication, at a bare minimum on the librarything.com website, but also wherever else I see fit. So, I am self-publishing here on my own personal blog, goodreads and, if Amazon.com will accept it, there as well. No inducements are made other than the gift of the book nor are any requirements for the review to be favourable.
So now, let's go on to the story!
The first chapter has a scholar of ancient Middle Eastern languages being killed by a mysterious, seemingly supernatural figure for his failure to deliver certain ancient tablets. And the protagonist surfaces in chapter 2, Dr. Brian Scott, who also happens to be an expert in some of those ancient languages. He is met by two men who threaten him and take him away from his regular and unexciting life in Philadelphia because "his country needs him".
Chapter 3 has another person blackmailed into joining the as yet undefined mission, Dr. Kelley; chapter 4 introduces us to 2 more characters with more incomprehensible background info about "the Group" and some, as yet unknown grave situation that even the President of the US has not yet been informed of. It turns out that Dr. Bandstra of chapter 5 is one of Brian's closest (and only) friends and has requested that he be brought to where they now are to help deal with this situation, one that may test his faith greatly.
Chapter 6 flashes us into another different location in a Catholic monastery in Italy...where once again a mysterious figure, this time one that specifies with a "triangular, asp-like face", uses unimaginable powers to immobilize and kill the priest while speaking inside the priest's mind.
The mystery finally begins to be slowly unraveled as a group of civilians gathers together in the as yet undisclosed place where Brian has been taken. Surprisingly, many of them are people with a strong Christian faith, both Protestant and Catholic.
I found that the story was unnecessarily obtuse, tried too hard to slowly reveal what it was all about; bring in false trails to keep the reader guessing and generally somewhat too predictable. Dr. Kelly takes a rather violent dislike to Brian...and is obviously going to fall for him sooner or later. Secret alliances are brought into the picture to help move the plot, as well as anonymous people who have special access to restricted areas of the facility they are now locked up in. UFOs and possible supernatural beings with super human abilities are gradually revealed while other explanations for their abilities are also teased out. But the story does not move seamlessly, naturally; rather, it moves by starts and stops.
The characters also did not really grab my heart strings. Even when reading, and maybe especially when reading novels, I want to actually care about the actors and I couldn't get to that place here.
When the action finally begins heating up to the place where some resolution would be expected, it fizzles out with a fairy tale ending suggested but not made concrete.
The Facade was much better than I believe I could create myself at this time, but it was not a story that I feel is ready for publication. The denouement needs some serious work as does the pacing and the gradual reveal of the elements of the plot. When you add in the rather strange theology about hybrid human beings and try to make it sound Biblical and add it Roswell with the UFOs, and try to tack on to all of this some kind of apocalyptic end of the world conspiracy, I think there is just too much confusion, too many lines of thought for there to be one unified story here. Heiser may yet grow and write better stories than this one. Good luck.
Heiser says that this his first novel was written while he was in the ABD stage of his Ph.D program. Since he had personal interest in many of the subjects that are included in the story: ancient history, Semitic languages, biblical studies, theology, paranormal and parapsychological topics (especially UFOs), a chance encounter where an Air Force officer explained the Roswell event with something that he "knew" to be false. He also places a "Note to the Reader" just before the story begins that tells us that all historical figures and quotations attributed to them are real and genuine, that every document whether modern or ancient is authentic and real.
The Prologue which follows establishes a rather idiosyncratic view of the Bible, that is, that there are multiple gods found in it.According to his view, they are referred to in several places and that in Genesis 6, they had sex with human women and produced giants, known in Hebrew as nephilim. The Noahic Flood was meant to kill them but did not, as they were reborn. After the Flood, others in God's ancient council also broke ranks with God and produced other hybrid races on earth. That these giants did exist, according to the Bible, I do not disagree. Their source, however, is a matter of pure conjecture on Heiser's part. Although his knowledge of the original languages vastly exceeds my own (I know of Hebrew and Aramaic as being the two languages that the Old Testament is written in...and no more than that! While his degree and subsequent employment by arguably the largest current Bible software producer will prove his expertise in those issues, I too have studied the Bible both devotionally and as a minister. I can say because of that study that his view is not at all orthodox.)
From that rocky beginning, and with the experience of Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code still fresh in my mind, his Note to the Reader raised my skepticism to new heights. Heiser, like Brown before him, seems to want the reader to grant credence to his story greater than what the actual facts ought to warrant.
But, I am also a fan of the science fiction genre and, due to receiving my copy through the Early Reviewer program at librarything.com, am required to write my review for publication, at a bare minimum on the librarything.com website, but also wherever else I see fit. So, I am self-publishing here on my own personal blog, goodreads and, if Amazon.com will accept it, there as well. No inducements are made other than the gift of the book nor are any requirements for the review to be favourable.
So now, let's go on to the story!
The first chapter has a scholar of ancient Middle Eastern languages being killed by a mysterious, seemingly supernatural figure for his failure to deliver certain ancient tablets. And the protagonist surfaces in chapter 2, Dr. Brian Scott, who also happens to be an expert in some of those ancient languages. He is met by two men who threaten him and take him away from his regular and unexciting life in Philadelphia because "his country needs him".
Chapter 3 has another person blackmailed into joining the as yet undefined mission, Dr. Kelley; chapter 4 introduces us to 2 more characters with more incomprehensible background info about "the Group" and some, as yet unknown grave situation that even the President of the US has not yet been informed of. It turns out that Dr. Bandstra of chapter 5 is one of Brian's closest (and only) friends and has requested that he be brought to where they now are to help deal with this situation, one that may test his faith greatly.
Chapter 6 flashes us into another different location in a Catholic monastery in Italy...where once again a mysterious figure, this time one that specifies with a "triangular, asp-like face", uses unimaginable powers to immobilize and kill the priest while speaking inside the priest's mind.
The mystery finally begins to be slowly unraveled as a group of civilians gathers together in the as yet undisclosed place where Brian has been taken. Surprisingly, many of them are people with a strong Christian faith, both Protestant and Catholic.
I found that the story was unnecessarily obtuse, tried too hard to slowly reveal what it was all about; bring in false trails to keep the reader guessing and generally somewhat too predictable. Dr. Kelly takes a rather violent dislike to Brian...and is obviously going to fall for him sooner or later. Secret alliances are brought into the picture to help move the plot, as well as anonymous people who have special access to restricted areas of the facility they are now locked up in. UFOs and possible supernatural beings with super human abilities are gradually revealed while other explanations for their abilities are also teased out. But the story does not move seamlessly, naturally; rather, it moves by starts and stops.
The characters also did not really grab my heart strings. Even when reading, and maybe especially when reading novels, I want to actually care about the actors and I couldn't get to that place here.
When the action finally begins heating up to the place where some resolution would be expected, it fizzles out with a fairy tale ending suggested but not made concrete.
The Facade was much better than I believe I could create myself at this time, but it was not a story that I feel is ready for publication. The denouement needs some serious work as does the pacing and the gradual reveal of the elements of the plot. When you add in the rather strange theology about hybrid human beings and try to make it sound Biblical and add it Roswell with the UFOs, and try to tack on to all of this some kind of apocalyptic end of the world conspiracy, I think there is just too much confusion, too many lines of thought for there to be one unified story here. Heiser may yet grow and write better stories than this one. Good luck.
May 31, 2024
Okay so I'm conflicted here. I LOVED this book but that's because I enjoy the premise. It was super cringy in so many parts, though. The relationships, dialogue, and wording in many parts were just... cringy is the only word. I would say that if you enjoy reading Michael Heiser's theology, this book is a good fictional companion. If you want great quality writing, not so much.
Content considerations: The phrase "relieved himself" was used several times- like, why do I need to know someone went to the bathroom. It had no bearing on the story. Reference to sex with the slang term "nailed." A woman's physical description is "hot." A woman attempts to seduce a man in order to make him look bad- cringe. A man is vicously attacked by two German shepherds which he then kills- gruesome scene. Gang rape is a woman's past is described (not graphic) along with a church cover up of the perpetrator/s. A dead man's eyeball and hand are removed from his body.
Content considerations: The phrase "relieved himself" was used several times- like, why do I need to know someone went to the bathroom. It had no bearing on the story. Reference to sex with the slang term "nailed." A woman's physical description is "hot." A woman attempts to seduce a man in order to make him look bad- cringe. A man is vicously attacked by two German shepherds which he then kills- gruesome scene. Gang rape is a woman's past is described (not graphic) along with a church cover up of the perpetrator/s. A dead man's eyeball and hand are removed from his body.
July 15, 2017
Outstanding, riveting, Read in two days.
This book is so good, I could not put it down, I saw myself as Brian. His beliefs and mine are almost the same. The ending of the book is a killer. I wish I could get more people to understand the UFO and what is really going on. You just need to read this Authors books. I have read Dr. Heiser's, " Unseen Realm", he has the Knowledge that I believe God wants known. This Author is bringing Bible Truths to the world. We do not have much time to get the truth out to the world. The Program, " Ancient Aliens" is working for the ET agenda against God. Read this book and open your eyes and get others to read this book so their eyes will open.
This book is so good, I could not put it down, I saw myself as Brian. His beliefs and mine are almost the same. The ending of the book is a killer. I wish I could get more people to understand the UFO and what is really going on. You just need to read this Authors books. I have read Dr. Heiser's, " Unseen Realm", he has the Knowledge that I believe God wants known. This Author is bringing Bible Truths to the world. We do not have much time to get the truth out to the world. The Program, " Ancient Aliens" is working for the ET agenda against God. Read this book and open your eyes and get others to read this book so their eyes will open.
November 2, 2017
Every so often, a book comes along that challenges the way Christians should view the world we live in, the unseen war going on around us. This Present Darkness did it in the 80's.
For the 21st century, this is that book. Heiser challenges everything we think we know about our faith and understanding of the Bible. In the best possible way. Peretti gave us the first layer of the supernatural war. Heiser gives us the next one.
Anyone who calls themselves a Bible-believing Christian needs to read this, and explore Dr. Heiser's other work.
For the 21st century, this is that book. Heiser challenges everything we think we know about our faith and understanding of the Bible. In the best possible way. Peretti gave us the first layer of the supernatural war. Heiser gives us the next one.
Anyone who calls themselves a Bible-believing Christian needs to read this, and explore Dr. Heiser's other work.
April 10, 2023
The audible version includes really annoying music and sounds in the background. The narrator was ok, but frequently went to expressing lines as if they were said by a 13 year old complaining that Mom was making them do something they didn't want. Maybe that's how the characters just came across to the narrator though, as they are rather thin.
The story itself was just ok. It was an interesting thought experiment on how to broach the idea of aliens to the public, and how different people would view it. It was primarily explored only through religious eyes. Those ideas were ok, and I was interested to read them, but the whole thing didn't quite live up to what I was hoping for, which was a fun story initiated by a thought experiment in the vein of what someone like Robert J Sawyer.
So it was ok, but if someone were interested in this one, I'd suggest reading it rather than listening to the audible version.
The story itself was just ok. It was an interesting thought experiment on how to broach the idea of aliens to the public, and how different people would view it. It was primarily explored only through religious eyes. Those ideas were ok, and I was interested to read them, but the whole thing didn't quite live up to what I was hoping for, which was a fun story initiated by a thought experiment in the vein of what someone like Robert J Sawyer.
So it was ok, but if someone were interested in this one, I'd suggest reading it rather than listening to the audible version.
May 20, 2017
One of the better fiction books I have read in a while. Done in two days and disappointed when it ended. I have read Michael Heiser's The Unseen Realm and Reversing Hermon. Fantastic non-fiction books and deep scholarly discussion. I was curious to see if he could deliver as a fiction writer since his professional field is biblical languages and scholarship.
He knocked it out of the park. Great book. Next on my list is The Portent, which is the next in the series. Unfortunately, he hasn't written the third yet, so I will be impatiently waiting soon enough.
He knocked it out of the park. Great book. Next on my list is The Portent, which is the next in the series. Unfortunately, he hasn't written the third yet, so I will be impatiently waiting soon enough.
November 22, 2017
Generally, I liked this book. This sci-fi thriller is designed to place Heiser's work from his research in The Unseen Realm into a narrative form. He does a good job, but some of the material gets kind of "talky" as he goes from scene to scene. Given his goal, however, that's more a criticism of the craft of fiction writing. What is amazing are the images of actual source materials that make a persuasive argument that the UFO reports and theories about aliens aren't just fantasy dreamed up by some fanatical wing-nut fans of the paranormal, but have some logical explanations buried within.
June 23, 2022
I've read quite a few of Michael Heiser's non-fiction books and I had a tiny annoying niggle with them. Normally I have no problem with an academic work being totally scholarly and theoretical but I'd ventured into Heiser's works because of a recommendation by Tom Hawkins, a counsellor who specialised in abuse. Hawkins had discerned practical applications to staggeringly serious spiritual problems in Heiser's work, so I hoped to find the same. And, yes, I did find them - but off my own bat, not because there are any directions in the works themselves. That's an outcome that's both fulfilling and frustrating at the same time. Because you're always wondering what you're missing simply because you don't recognise the clues for what they are.
Finally I decided to read Heiser's fiction. Whoa! Am I left with more questions than answers! Is this art for art's sake, or is this an expression of genuine belief about the way the dark powers are operating in the world today? There's a lot of theological exposition in the books (more, at least that I noticed, in the second volume). Not the sort of thing you'd usually expect in a supernatural thriller. Things like: "Monotheism as we think of it - the denial that there are any gods but one - is actually a seventeenth century term imposed on an ancient culture... Israelites believed in many gods but only one Yahweh, who was intrinsically superior." (p 131f) "The sons of God of the heavenly council share the image of God... The image refers to ruling status, something the Watchers had before humans were created. When mankind was created, God gave the authority over earth to humans." (p136)
Having said that there's a lot of theological precision - as you'd expect from Heiser - I'm a bit confused by the "Watchers" in the story. They appear to be high angelic forces, though fallen in nature. Yet when they speak about their identity, it seems they are really nephilim, angel-human hybrids. (At least that's what I took the obligatory cliché of the villain-exposing-evil-agenda scene to mean. p 316)
I found the story line actually very interesting, despite the long pauses for theological exposition or explanation of what we'd currently class as esoteric. There's an undercurrent of historical abuse, lies galore (of course), group mind control, resourcing the war against yourself ... all the elements that, in spiritual warfare in real life, I associate with the leader of the Watchers.
Finally I decided to read Heiser's fiction. Whoa! Am I left with more questions than answers! Is this art for art's sake, or is this an expression of genuine belief about the way the dark powers are operating in the world today? There's a lot of theological exposition in the books (more, at least that I noticed, in the second volume). Not the sort of thing you'd usually expect in a supernatural thriller. Things like: "Monotheism as we think of it - the denial that there are any gods but one - is actually a seventeenth century term imposed on an ancient culture... Israelites believed in many gods but only one Yahweh, who was intrinsically superior." (p 131f) "The sons of God of the heavenly council share the image of God... The image refers to ruling status, something the Watchers had before humans were created. When mankind was created, God gave the authority over earth to humans." (p136)
Having said that there's a lot of theological precision - as you'd expect from Heiser - I'm a bit confused by the "Watchers" in the story. They appear to be high angelic forces, though fallen in nature. Yet when they speak about their identity, it seems they are really nephilim, angel-human hybrids. (At least that's what I took the obligatory cliché of the villain-exposing-evil-agenda scene to mean. p 316)
I found the story line actually very interesting, despite the long pauses for theological exposition or explanation of what we'd currently class as esoteric. There's an undercurrent of historical abuse, lies galore (of course), group mind control, resourcing the war against yourself ... all the elements that, in spiritual warfare in real life, I associate with the leader of the Watchers.
January 6, 2022
Y’all this book was written over 10 years ago and it’s so applicable to today. Weird.
March 19, 2018
Interesting theory.
I enjoyed the book and the characters in it. There are some intense scary parts. The one thing I didn't like is that the book depicted the evil one as having tremendous power over the Christian characters. He had the ability to manipulate and kill them whenever he wanted. As a Christian I know the power of the Christ in me. I know that no devil can stand up to the power of Christ's spirit or His name. Whether devils or aliens I believe Christ has all power over them.
I enjoyed the book and the characters in it. There are some intense scary parts. The one thing I didn't like is that the book depicted the evil one as having tremendous power over the Christian characters. He had the ability to manipulate and kill them whenever he wanted. As a Christian I know the power of the Christ in me. I know that no devil can stand up to the power of Christ's spirit or His name. Whether devils or aliens I believe Christ has all power over them.
September 18, 2022
I am a big fan of Heiser's academic writings, but unfortunately, I did not find this book equally stimulating. I am uncertain as to whether or not he was trying to make a statement with this endeavor into fiction. If he was, I was confused. If he was not, then the plot and action were way too contrived to be realistic or believable.
Update: Reread the book in August 2022. Ditto to my previous commentary...
Update: Reread the book in August 2022. Ditto to my previous commentary...
January 27, 2014
A very poignant view of the spiritual aspect of the current craze about the UFO phenomenon. They are not visitors from another planet. They are fallen angels, Watchers, demons.
This book serves as both a good story, and even a good reference tool on how Christians should approach the UFO phenomenon.
This book serves as both a good story, and even a good reference tool on how Christians should approach the UFO phenomenon.
March 22, 2023
Interesting premise that goes off the rails. I really like Dr Michael Heiser (rest in peace), and I picked up his fiction after listening to the Naked Bible Podcast. The story starts out riveting, but he seemed to lose the handle on it a little over halfway through. I’ll probably read the second one, only because he referenced it more than he ever referenced The Facade.
August 9, 2016
This was a GREAT book! I have read the author's nonfiction stuff, which is great, but this was even better!!! It is one part mystery, one part theology, one part conspiracy theory!! And it is spot on!! Loved it!
September 16, 2017
What's real is a mystery
One of the best books I've read for its knowledge and readability. It calls into question everything you thought you knew. It's a science fact/fiction, horror, mystery and theological study in one exciting story!
One of the best books I've read for its knowledge and readability. It calls into question everything you thought you knew. It's a science fact/fiction, horror, mystery and theological study in one exciting story!
November 12, 2017
Fantastic story and intricate plot
This was hard to put down, fast, fun, and brilliantly done. The storyline weaves in every angle to make the reader want to know the next facet of the story.
This was hard to put down, fast, fun, and brilliantly done. The storyline weaves in every angle to make the reader want to know the next facet of the story.
Read
March 26, 2018Not bad, not great.
An interesting story with a few twists. Unfortunately, not very advanced in style or content but the subject matter certainly bears thinking about.
An interesting story with a few twists. Unfortunately, not very advanced in style or content but the subject matter certainly bears thinking about.
October 24, 2020
Couldn't put it down. Absolutely fascinating intellectual thriller.
March 16, 2021
A Review of Mike Heiser's "The Facade"
First, let me say that I love fantasy more than science fiction. So when I decide to write a review for something in the vein of science fiction, that should be the first clue that I'm making an exception here.
Whether you're a Christian or not, and I make this point because Heiser is a Christian, "The Facade" is a story that is different from other books. It is in the vein of science fiction but one of the reasons I find this book fascinating is the incredible amount of real documentation that is cited. This of course will turn some people away as the book is loaded with this stuff. And yet, I find this gives weight to the story itself. One thing that draws me to a story set in this world is, how credible is it? If you are going to do scifi, how much of it can be based in reality? And to that end, this put the creep factor on high. The amount of documents to support what was happening made it a bit uncomfortable as these are real government documentated facts.
Now, for the Christian who's been brought up in the traditional american church setting, you are going to have a lot of problems. This is probably why you won't find the book in a Christian bookstore. It sidesteps church tradition altogether and goes directly to biblical text in detail to make a case within the story's narrative. The thing about it however is this. Mike Heiser's first profession isn't an author of literature. He is a hardcore biblical scholar who knows his stuff. Slowly, churches are catching on and realizing that what he is saying is biblically accurate and the american church tradition is what is inaccurate. When you can step outside of your traditional upbringing and allow the bible itself to frame your thinking, what is being presented actually makes sense.
So what exactly is "The Facade" about?
The story surrounds several people of different backgrounds who's professions have gained the attention of a secret government agency. Brian is the main character and as Heiser points out, is based off of him. He does this because it was easier for him to write this way. His expertise was never literature but scholarly acadamia.
Along with the others, Brian is kidnapped so to speak to become part of a project to bring the world together as something impossible happens in the near future. It will take these specific group of people to make the world believe and come together rather than have a chaotic mess.
Brian is quick to discover he is the target of one of the women in the group. Melissa has it out for him and attacks him viciously every chance she gets to the shock of the others in the group. Brian has had a hard life and with a paper he presents to the scholarly academy, it practically makes him unemployable in every place that matters to him. But the truth is the truth. It is this paper that gained the attention of the government and made him part of the team. For Melissa though, she doesn't care who he is. He's a Christian and she will prove him a heretic.
As the story progresses, we discover several shocking discoveries through the eyes of the group of citizens who's sworn to secrecy. For Brian and Melissa, what began as a potential lethal situation, unforseen events and a sacrifice Brian makes for her, breaks Melissa's cold heart. Heart breaking revelations are revealed, a healing begins while the world teeters on the brink of a new age of man steeped in plausible and chilling discoveries.
And behind everything, the true puppet masters direct those in charge so in the near future, they can reveal themselves as gods and saviours of mankind.
First, let me say that I love fantasy more than science fiction. So when I decide to write a review for something in the vein of science fiction, that should be the first clue that I'm making an exception here.
Whether you're a Christian or not, and I make this point because Heiser is a Christian, "The Facade" is a story that is different from other books. It is in the vein of science fiction but one of the reasons I find this book fascinating is the incredible amount of real documentation that is cited. This of course will turn some people away as the book is loaded with this stuff. And yet, I find this gives weight to the story itself. One thing that draws me to a story set in this world is, how credible is it? If you are going to do scifi, how much of it can be based in reality? And to that end, this put the creep factor on high. The amount of documents to support what was happening made it a bit uncomfortable as these are real government documentated facts.
Now, for the Christian who's been brought up in the traditional american church setting, you are going to have a lot of problems. This is probably why you won't find the book in a Christian bookstore. It sidesteps church tradition altogether and goes directly to biblical text in detail to make a case within the story's narrative. The thing about it however is this. Mike Heiser's first profession isn't an author of literature. He is a hardcore biblical scholar who knows his stuff. Slowly, churches are catching on and realizing that what he is saying is biblically accurate and the american church tradition is what is inaccurate. When you can step outside of your traditional upbringing and allow the bible itself to frame your thinking, what is being presented actually makes sense.
So what exactly is "The Facade" about?
The story surrounds several people of different backgrounds who's professions have gained the attention of a secret government agency. Brian is the main character and as Heiser points out, is based off of him. He does this because it was easier for him to write this way. His expertise was never literature but scholarly acadamia.
Along with the others, Brian is kidnapped so to speak to become part of a project to bring the world together as something impossible happens in the near future. It will take these specific group of people to make the world believe and come together rather than have a chaotic mess.
Brian is quick to discover he is the target of one of the women in the group. Melissa has it out for him and attacks him viciously every chance she gets to the shock of the others in the group. Brian has had a hard life and with a paper he presents to the scholarly academy, it practically makes him unemployable in every place that matters to him. But the truth is the truth. It is this paper that gained the attention of the government and made him part of the team. For Melissa though, she doesn't care who he is. He's a Christian and she will prove him a heretic.
As the story progresses, we discover several shocking discoveries through the eyes of the group of citizens who's sworn to secrecy. For Brian and Melissa, what began as a potential lethal situation, unforseen events and a sacrifice Brian makes for her, breaks Melissa's cold heart. Heart breaking revelations are revealed, a healing begins while the world teeters on the brink of a new age of man steeped in plausible and chilling discoveries.
And behind everything, the true puppet masters direct those in charge so in the near future, they can reveal themselves as gods and saviours of mankind.
April 7, 2019
Previously, I had read Heiser's academic books and have quoted them extensively in my latest book on spiritual warfare. Since I am a seminary professor with a PhD, I resonate with Heiser's academics and his work at Logos. The good: 1. It's an enjoyable read, has good character development, fun dialogue, and is riveting. Once I got into the book, I did not want to put it down. 2. He introduces people to the OT Pseudepigrapha and shows how they influenced the apocalyptic worldview of the NT writers. 3. He gives a biblical alternative to UFO data that does not require one to buy into the Ancient Alien explanation. Few have offered alternative explanations that consider biblical material. 4. His use of primary sources and his interpretation of the Roswell crash was very cleaver. The not so good: 1. His use of extrabiblical references is selective and may be "proof-texting." 2. He often treats the "ancient texts" as if they are inspired scripture. There was a clear process by which texts were evaluated before they were considered inspired and a part of the canon. 3. Based on my extensive work doing inner healing, I can say that the main female character would have been demonized because of deep wounds, parental curses, blatant sexual sins, and rejection of God. He did not deal with that fact or seem to understand how everyday demonization works. We refer to ground-level and cosmic-level (strategic) spiritual warfare. A son of God would be considered a nation god and a cosmic power. 4. The priest had spiritual standing and authority to command the manifesting "son of God" to leave him alone. In a similar situation, I hope every Christian would use the name of Jesus to push back a demonic attack. 5. The book had at least 20 grammatical mistakes. It needs a copyeditor. 6. What was the purpose of the discovered tooth in the vent since the person in the NDE was led to it by an angel? 7. Today, the Society of Jesus (Jesuit order S.J.) is more concerned with social justice and liberation theology than defending the Church from error or demonic attack. Soon I will discover how the Façade segues into the Portent and the end times scenario that it presages. I look forward to the next book.
October 16, 2025
What if your favorite Old Testament scholar was also UFOologist and what if he decided to write a novel about 👽🛸 Well In The Façade, Michael S. Heiser, a renowned scholar of ancient Near Eastern languages and biblical studies, does just that. Heiser crafts a riveting sci-fi thriller that seamlessly blends his academic expertise with conspiracy-laden storytelling. He steps out boldly into the fiction world drawing on his deep knowledge of Hebrew, Akkadian, and other Semitic languages, Heiser infuses the novel with references to authentic ancient texts and artifacts, grounding the speculative plot in a credible scholarly framework. The story follows a linguist entangled in a web of government secrets, extraterrestrial mysteries, and theological enigmas, delivering a narrative that feels like a fusion of academic rigor and high-stakes suspense. And here is the kicker, all the documents discussed in the novel are true and accurate. He invites the reader to continue research at the end of the book and includes full CIA disclosure documents for your convenience.
Heiser’s background shines through in the meticulous depiction of historical and biblical documents, which are not mere props but rooted in real-world scholarship—think cuneiform tablets and Dead Sea Scrolls. This authenticity elevates the novel, making its intellectual puzzles compelling for readers who appreciate depth. The characters are engaging, the dialogue crisp, and the pacing keeps you glued. For fans of cerebral thrillers, The Façade is a 4/5 star gem, offering a unique blend of faith, science, and intrigue, with a clear setup for its sequel.
Essential for theology nerds with a taste for the uncanny. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heiser’s background shines through in the meticulous depiction of historical and biblical documents, which are not mere props but rooted in real-world scholarship—think cuneiform tablets and Dead Sea Scrolls. This authenticity elevates the novel, making its intellectual puzzles compelling for readers who appreciate depth. The characters are engaging, the dialogue crisp, and the pacing keeps you glued. For fans of cerebral thrillers, The Façade is a 4/5 star gem, offering a unique blend of faith, science, and intrigue, with a clear setup for its sequel.
Essential for theology nerds with a taste for the uncanny. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 3, 2021
I listened to this audiobook because I've been listening to the author's podcast (the Naked Bible Podcast), and I have enjoyed it. Michael Heiser is a scholar in biblical studies and ancient near east culture, and his podcast focuses on biblical theology. If you are interested in in-depth study of Scripture, I highly recommend his podcast. It's outstanding.
His fiction writing, on the other hand, leaves quite a bit to be desired. In my judgment, the novel is poorly written. It has all kinds of point of view problems ("head hopping"), there is a whole lot of telling and very little showing, there aren't any interesting characters, the use of overuse of adverbs to describe dialogue becomes comical at times, the plot is difficult to follow, and, worst of all, I found the whole story boring.
I was also unimpressed with the narration. The reader has an amazing voice, but he seems to me like an over-actor. He makes the characters sound whiny and ridiculous.
On the other hand, I did find the book helpful. I didn't read it to be entertained--I read it to get an idea of Heiser's views about the sons of God in Genesis 6. And he does present his argument for his divine council view in the story. So that accomplished my purpose for listening through the book (although it would have been nice if I could have just skipped right to the chapter where all that is explained without having to suffer through the rest of it).
I think you can safely skip this book, but if you're interested in biblical theology, or you just want some good scholarly studies of several books of the Bible, subscribe to his Naked Bible podcast. It's outstanding.
His fiction writing, on the other hand, leaves quite a bit to be desired. In my judgment, the novel is poorly written. It has all kinds of point of view problems ("head hopping"), there is a whole lot of telling and very little showing, there aren't any interesting characters, the use of overuse of adverbs to describe dialogue becomes comical at times, the plot is difficult to follow, and, worst of all, I found the whole story boring.
I was also unimpressed with the narration. The reader has an amazing voice, but he seems to me like an over-actor. He makes the characters sound whiny and ridiculous.
On the other hand, I did find the book helpful. I didn't read it to be entertained--I read it to get an idea of Heiser's views about the sons of God in Genesis 6. And he does present his argument for his divine council view in the story. So that accomplished my purpose for listening through the book (although it would have been nice if I could have just skipped right to the chapter where all that is explained without having to suffer through the rest of it).
I think you can safely skip this book, but if you're interested in biblical theology, or you just want some good scholarly studies of several books of the Bible, subscribe to his Naked Bible podcast. It's outstanding.
March 2, 2025
This one was like a Christian version of a Dan Brown novel. With ALIENS(?).
Plenty of historical tidbits and political intrigue... lots less heresy.
The storytelling utilizes some head-hoping, and several of said heads are pretty unpleasant to be in. Our primary Protagonist, Dr. Brian Scott, is a mild-mannered ancient-language scholar with virtually no life. His parents have been dead for some years, and he doesn't have any close friends to speak of. He's... pretty dull; which is why it's a good thing he gets picked up by the U.S. military fairly early on and relegated to a top-secret facility--along with a handful of other experts. One of whom (Melissa) is an insufferable misandrist who almost immediately sets her sights on Brian as a target for her vitriol. Why? Because the guy is just too darn nice to be true. >.>
Melissa of course has a tragic backstory justification for her psychotic tendencies. She ends up being the love interest--much to my chagrin. (Deirdre was robbed!) But, I guess if you're going for a more hefty redemption arch, this was the inevitable way to go.
As for the writing, the prose is decent and effective. The pacing came off a bit choppy at times, and I would have liked a bit more depth to the characterization. The theological angle still confuses me a little... but it did hold my interest enough that I finally sat down and read the extra-biblical book of Enoch--something I'd put off doing for some years--just to more clearly grasp some of the texts being referenced.
I see what the author was doing here, and I applaud him. For a first novel (after a number of non-fiction semi-academic theological works), it's not bad. I'm left teetering on whether or not I'm intrigued enough to read the second in the duology.
Plenty of historical tidbits and political intrigue... lots less heresy.
The storytelling utilizes some head-hoping, and several of said heads are pretty unpleasant to be in. Our primary Protagonist, Dr. Brian Scott, is a mild-mannered ancient-language scholar with virtually no life. His parents have been dead for some years, and he doesn't have any close friends to speak of. He's... pretty dull; which is why it's a good thing he gets picked up by the U.S. military fairly early on and relegated to a top-secret facility--along with a handful of other experts. One of whom (Melissa) is an insufferable misandrist who almost immediately sets her sights on Brian as a target for her vitriol. Why? Because the guy is just too darn nice to be true. >.>
Melissa of course has a tragic backstory justification for her psychotic tendencies. She ends up being the love interest--much to my chagrin. (Deirdre was robbed!) But, I guess if you're going for a more hefty redemption arch, this was the inevitable way to go.
As for the writing, the prose is decent and effective. The pacing came off a bit choppy at times, and I would have liked a bit more depth to the characterization. The theological angle still confuses me a little... but it did hold my interest enough that I finally sat down and read the extra-biblical book of Enoch--something I'd put off doing for some years--just to more clearly grasp some of the texts being referenced.
I see what the author was doing here, and I applaud him. For a first novel (after a number of non-fiction semi-academic theological works), it's not bad. I'm left teetering on whether or not I'm intrigued enough to read the second in the duology.
December 26, 2019
I enjoyed reading the Façade but like some other reviewers felt the writing to be a bit contrived and stiff. So, therefore, I would rate the content a five and the fiction writing a three. I commend Dr. Heiser, however, in all fairness to him, for utilizing this medium to get the message out to those who would not gravitate to his non-fiction material. The blending of his varied interests and expertise including the mindset of ancient biblical-era people, ancient languages/grammar, Christianity, UFOs, Astronauts, and astral theology/prophecy conflates the seen with the unseen or the empirical with the mystical. This leaves the reader and characters wondering what is “real,” and introduces us to the biblical world view of overlapping earthly and heavenly realms. I believe the novel also successfully contributes to Dr. Heiser’s ministry and mission, in that the story is directed not only at seekers but also at the unbending Christian denominationalist and fundamentalist-set as well. Hopefully, this novel and his work, in general, contribute to the formation of more mature and developed paradigms, accurate theology, and a better understanding of the message that the church is appointed to share with others. I thought the novel to be most powerful and touching though when autobiographical material was incorporated into characters such as Brian. Looking forward to reading the Portent and more of his non-fiction material.
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