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Lion of War #1
Day of War
In ancient Israel, at the crossroads of the great trading routes, a man named Benaiah is searching for a fresh start in life. He has joined a band of soldiers led by a warlord named David, seeking to bury the past that refuses to leave him. Their ragged army is disgruntled and full of reckless men. Some are loyal to David, but others are only with him for the promise of captured wealth.
While the ruthless and increasingly mad King Saul marches hopelessly against the powerful Philistines, loyal son Jonathan in tow, the land of the Hebrew tribes has never been more despondent---and more in need of rescue. Over the course of ten days, from snowy mountain passes to sword-wracked battlefields, Benaiah and his fellow mercenaries must call upon every skill they have to survive and establish the throne for David---if they don't kill each other first.
Day of War brings to life the exploits of the Mighty Men of Israel, a rag-tag band of disgruntled warriors on the run with David, the soon-to-be King. Their legendary deeds are recorded in 2 Samuel 23 and 1 Chronicles 11.
While the ruthless and increasingly mad King Saul marches hopelessly against the powerful Philistines, loyal son Jonathan in tow, the land of the Hebrew tribes has never been more despondent---and more in need of rescue. Over the course of ten days, from snowy mountain passes to sword-wracked battlefields, Benaiah and his fellow mercenaries must call upon every skill they have to survive and establish the throne for David---if they don't kill each other first.
Day of War brings to life the exploits of the Mighty Men of Israel, a rag-tag band of disgruntled warriors on the run with David, the soon-to-be King. Their legendary deeds are recorded in 2 Samuel 23 and 1 Chronicles 11.
364 pages, Perfect Paperback
First published January 1, 2009
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
February 26, 2012
998 B.C.
I felt pleased and blessed when Zondervan sent me a copy of "Day of War," by Cliff Graham. Cliff has signed note read: Psalms 140:7 “O God the Lord, the strength of my salvation, Thou hast covered my head in the day of battle.” Battle rage and battle weariness are continuous themes throughout the novel. Understanding how warriors actually fell under those conditions and what they depend on is one of the great achievements of this book. To know God’s covering, praying for it during time of desperate need is an even greater achievement.
The tale of David and his mighty men comes from two Biblical sources; 2 Samuel 23 and 1 Chronicles 11 and have been a favorite of mine for 30 years. Graham has truly captured the brutality and male heroism of ancient Israel. He has taken the story of King David the warlord and his Mighty Men and written the first installment of an epic tale on a scale with, the valor of “The 300, a tale of the Spartans’” and hopefully will have greater impact at the box office. 2012 will see a major motion picture from David Cunningham (Path to 911) and Grant Curtis (Spiderman 1, 2, &3) with another sequel the following year.
This is a page-turner, which I could not put down. It is deeply masculine, but not in sense of bulging muscles, macho, and blind killing machine sort of way, (it is a very violent book). Graham touches on the deeper part of manhood as the reader sees the main character, Benaiah, who suffers through the insecurities, guilt’s, and frustrations that every man battles during his life. The relationships between the main characters in the story evidence the fact that Graham has served in the military and understands the inexplicable bond of men who fight together.
I marvel at how well written the book is yet remains as faithful to the biblical record which inspires it. Benaiah, David, The Three along with the other Mighty Men are going to be the heroes of the next generation.
I felt pleased and blessed when Zondervan sent me a copy of "Day of War," by Cliff Graham. Cliff has signed note read: Psalms 140:7 “O God the Lord, the strength of my salvation, Thou hast covered my head in the day of battle.” Battle rage and battle weariness are continuous themes throughout the novel. Understanding how warriors actually fell under those conditions and what they depend on is one of the great achievements of this book. To know God’s covering, praying for it during time of desperate need is an even greater achievement.
The tale of David and his mighty men comes from two Biblical sources; 2 Samuel 23 and 1 Chronicles 11 and have been a favorite of mine for 30 years. Graham has truly captured the brutality and male heroism of ancient Israel. He has taken the story of King David the warlord and his Mighty Men and written the first installment of an epic tale on a scale with, the valor of “The 300, a tale of the Spartans’” and hopefully will have greater impact at the box office. 2012 will see a major motion picture from David Cunningham (Path to 911) and Grant Curtis (Spiderman 1, 2, &3) with another sequel the following year.
This is a page-turner, which I could not put down. It is deeply masculine, but not in sense of bulging muscles, macho, and blind killing machine sort of way, (it is a very violent book). Graham touches on the deeper part of manhood as the reader sees the main character, Benaiah, who suffers through the insecurities, guilt’s, and frustrations that every man battles during his life. The relationships between the main characters in the story evidence the fact that Graham has served in the military and understands the inexplicable bond of men who fight together.
I marvel at how well written the book is yet remains as faithful to the biblical record which inspires it. Benaiah, David, The Three along with the other Mighty Men are going to be the heroes of the next generation.
February 29, 2012
Great concept. Well developed.
What's not to like? The story telling was pitiful. It needed proofreading. And there were egregious groaners, like "chain mail resembling fish scales" or "bamboo bow" or "infection" (you and I may know what infection is but not a point of view character in the tenth century BC) or "Nile delta flush with spring flooding" (the annual flooding starts afterthe summer solstice) or "[his] heart was pounding blood through his veins so hard . . .". Numerous modern word choices knock the reader out of the period mood.
After one character is so mauled by two lions that his skin hung in flaps, he participates in heroic single combat and forced marches, etc.
Other than that, a good read.
What's not to like? The story telling was pitiful. It needed proofreading. And there were egregious groaners, like "chain mail resembling fish scales" or "bamboo bow" or "infection" (you and I may know what infection is but not a point of view character in the tenth century BC) or "Nile delta flush with spring flooding" (the annual flooding starts afterthe summer solstice) or "[his] heart was pounding blood through his veins so hard . . .". Numerous modern word choices knock the reader out of the period mood.
After one character is so mauled by two lions that his skin hung in flaps, he participates in heroic single combat and forced marches, etc.
Other than that, a good read.
August 24, 2011
I snagged this novel from one of the Barnes & Nobel free Friday offerings for Nook owners. A Christian fiction, with heavy emphasis on Bronze Age/Early Iron age military tactics, retelling or 'filling in the blanks' of David and his warriors (and Jonathan and his army).
In his Note to the Reader, Cliff Graham references 2 Samuel 23 and 1 Chronicles 11 as inspiration for his retelling of David and his 'Dirty Dozen.' He warns the reader about the battle violence and after-battle pillaging and plundering, although compared to some of the dark fantasy I've read, Graham did an admirable job restraining himself from too much gratuitous violence or sex.
He modernized the language (both internal and external) to such a degree that I found it distracting. And he repeatedly lapsed back into passive voice, despite his riveting active voice fight scenes. A compelling read, but I'm not the intended audience (which probably requires a lot more testosterone than I have flowing through my estrogenized veins).
In his Note to the Reader, Cliff Graham references 2 Samuel 23 and 1 Chronicles 11 as inspiration for his retelling of David and his 'Dirty Dozen.' He warns the reader about the battle violence and after-battle pillaging and plundering, although compared to some of the dark fantasy I've read, Graham did an admirable job restraining himself from too much gratuitous violence or sex.
He modernized the language (both internal and external) to such a degree that I found it distracting. And he repeatedly lapsed back into passive voice, despite his riveting active voice fight scenes. A compelling read, but I'm not the intended audience (which probably requires a lot more testosterone than I have flowing through my estrogenized veins).
March 17, 2013
I’ve had “Day of War” on my eReader for quite some time, but just never found the right mood or opportunity to read it. (It came highly recommended.) Then we started studying the life of David in our home group, and it seemed like the perfect time. This novel did help give me a new perspective of the portion of David’s life that it covered. I especially appreciate the fact that it was written by a former soldier, who clearly did his research prior to writing. Gave the whole narrative an extra touch of realism.
As a writer I found it interesting that the author used the perspective of an extra-Biblical soldier to view David’s life. Overall, I think that strategy worked, though early on it had me wondering whether I was actually going to read about the biblical characters or not. Without question, the book brings you right into the action when it is happening. And be warned: the violence here is real and often gruesome. This is no comic book where the punches and stabs are hidden behind “pow” and “blam”. It is all out there for you to read. Here it almost feels too real.
I think my only criticisms of this book would be minor. There were portions in the middle where it seemed a bit too talky for an action book. I realize a lot of that was backstory and often important information to the unaware, but some of it—the Israelites lack of metal, for instance—seemed a bit belabored. (My having read the relevant portions of scripture probably makes it seem more repetitive, as well.)
Overall, though, I think “Day of War” is a solid book. If you’re looking for a glimpse of how life in David’s army might have been, then here’s a good place to start.
As a writer I found it interesting that the author used the perspective of an extra-Biblical soldier to view David’s life. Overall, I think that strategy worked, though early on it had me wondering whether I was actually going to read about the biblical characters or not. Without question, the book brings you right into the action when it is happening. And be warned: the violence here is real and often gruesome. This is no comic book where the punches and stabs are hidden behind “pow” and “blam”. It is all out there for you to read. Here it almost feels too real.
I think my only criticisms of this book would be minor. There were portions in the middle where it seemed a bit too talky for an action book. I realize a lot of that was backstory and often important information to the unaware, but some of it—the Israelites lack of metal, for instance—seemed a bit belabored. (My having read the relevant portions of scripture probably makes it seem more repetitive, as well.)
Overall, though, I think “Day of War” is a solid book. If you’re looking for a glimpse of how life in David’s army might have been, then here’s a good place to start.
February 21, 2010
With a final burst, he released one of the ropes, sending the stone whistling through the air, and as it flew towards the black form of the warrior, he whispered in his spirit: Cover me in the day of war.” (p.10, day of War)
Review: Sometimes an action book is just an action book--the fighting, the intensity, the imagery, the hype of the plot and the fans all clamoring really just about the entertainment of the story—a story without substance. A story without meaning. A story that will be fashionable for a moment, then forgotten. That is not this story.
Day of War is a special novel amid special novels. The only flaw with Day of War is that very few people may actually get what the author is trying to do, so compelling is the writing. If one—and the story is so fiercely driven and compelling that it would be very easy to do— is distracted enough to be caught up merely in the characters swinging swords and bleeding bodies, they may miss the brilliantly composed dialectics bleeding through every carefully crafted page and chapter. They may miss, just as they might in the Bible itself, the real and true meaning of stories about war and painful descriptions of human suffering. The real story that speaks about paradigms, lifestyles, and above all the quest for ontology—literally what it means to be, who we are, and why we suffer along with triumphs.
The point is that this novel, while as white-knuckled, and testosterone producing as any blockbuster war epic, is really about people, not war. This novel is about parents and sons, women, and honor and righteousness. It is about the religiously supernatural, and the human traps we all must experience, and Graham’s writing is so detailed and compelling that one would have to have a dormant heart to not feel the pain as one reads the perils of Jonathon, Saul, David, and Benaiah.
Finally, the story is really about conversion, and confusion of conversion. Graham doesn’t paint a simplistic or unitary figure of who prophets and people are, but describes characters who are real—flawed, but heroic. You will respect what our ancestors have done in new and profound ways after reading DOW.
As a slightly compulsive student of the Bible myself, I am constantly frustrated when novels that describe the Bible use populist and even pontificating promotions of the Bible that are often odd, unrealistic, hopelessly inaccurate, and frankly, a little Star Trek.
Graham’s knowledge and passion for the history and depth of the Bible is a wonderful breath of relieving oxygen. For instance, where most writers gloss over the importance of the Old Testament’s temple attire, use of Urim and Thummum, and reliance of both males and females with metaphysical insight, and where most seem to be confused or adrift on the chapters of Isaiah and Ezekiel and the meaning and intent of the Abrahamic Covenant, Graham brilliantly strangles the reader into the realities and daily life of the ancient inhabitants of the modern Middle East, and makes it all believable and palpable, and he even accurately describes the atrocities and unbelievable vices of ancient temples and standards of those who would follow and serve Baal, all in a way that doesn’t feel odd, preachy, weird-o-ish, and for lack of a better word, is mesmerizing.
The point is that DOW is so expertly written, so absolutely tantalizing, that one is tempted to feel the rush of a story such as Braveheart and do nothing more. In fact, probably most of the book reviewers will talk just about that aspect of DOW, and it is worthy of that kind of attention. But to this reviewer DOW is so much more than a story about dead bodies and interesting Hebrew trivia. It is about the confusion of following God in a land over three thousand years lost, but even more than that, it is about giving, through the recordings of the Bible mixed with a blend of archaic and presentist prose, lessons for our own children about what it means to be a valiant warrior against temptation and sin in a life that has never been more complicated than in the modern day. Brilliantly done. Brilliantly done. Brilliantly done. It feels sophomoric to simply say this is a must read.
On the writing style: graphic, intense battle scenes not for the faint of heart, but a compelling, obsessive-compulsive page turner. Don’t plan on needing sleep for awhile if you read the first chapter late in the evening, you won’t just stop there.
On the Target Audience: Without wanting to sound sexist, this novel is undoubtedly more for males than females, but regardless of gender those who love the history of the world, and especially religious history MUST spend some time in this book. Some will disagree on the characterizations of the some of the prophets and people, simply because David is arguably one of the most controversial, and thus disagreed on beings recorded in the Bible, but regardless of theological perspective, all can appreciate the extremely accurate details of war, and the extremely astute insights on the effect war has on the character in battle.
On the best parts: For 99% of the readers, I think it is highly likely the story pacing, detail, and drama itself is what will be enjoyed. As much as this is good, the message the author is trying to convey, to me, was wonderfully done and not in a corny, super-obvious sort of way.
But, in terms of the best part of the storyline for me...the death of Prince Jonathon, son of Saul = raised, bumpy skin on the arms and legs.
Closing thoughts and overall summary: One word: Unbelievable. Get into this book as soon as you can. This sounds like a paid promotion, it is not, it is hard for me to get into books sometimes as an author because it feels like study...this didn’t, I was enraptured by this brilliantly written novel, and look forward to the rest. Graham is one of the best storytellers on the market today. Really. It is not hard to see why this story is being made into a major motion picture.
Rating: Five T's
Heath Sommer, Ph.D.
Author of The Manufactured Identity
Review: Sometimes an action book is just an action book--the fighting, the intensity, the imagery, the hype of the plot and the fans all clamoring really just about the entertainment of the story—a story without substance. A story without meaning. A story that will be fashionable for a moment, then forgotten. That is not this story.
Day of War is a special novel amid special novels. The only flaw with Day of War is that very few people may actually get what the author is trying to do, so compelling is the writing. If one—and the story is so fiercely driven and compelling that it would be very easy to do— is distracted enough to be caught up merely in the characters swinging swords and bleeding bodies, they may miss the brilliantly composed dialectics bleeding through every carefully crafted page and chapter. They may miss, just as they might in the Bible itself, the real and true meaning of stories about war and painful descriptions of human suffering. The real story that speaks about paradigms, lifestyles, and above all the quest for ontology—literally what it means to be, who we are, and why we suffer along with triumphs.
The point is that this novel, while as white-knuckled, and testosterone producing as any blockbuster war epic, is really about people, not war. This novel is about parents and sons, women, and honor and righteousness. It is about the religiously supernatural, and the human traps we all must experience, and Graham’s writing is so detailed and compelling that one would have to have a dormant heart to not feel the pain as one reads the perils of Jonathon, Saul, David, and Benaiah.
Finally, the story is really about conversion, and confusion of conversion. Graham doesn’t paint a simplistic or unitary figure of who prophets and people are, but describes characters who are real—flawed, but heroic. You will respect what our ancestors have done in new and profound ways after reading DOW.
As a slightly compulsive student of the Bible myself, I am constantly frustrated when novels that describe the Bible use populist and even pontificating promotions of the Bible that are often odd, unrealistic, hopelessly inaccurate, and frankly, a little Star Trek.
Graham’s knowledge and passion for the history and depth of the Bible is a wonderful breath of relieving oxygen. For instance, where most writers gloss over the importance of the Old Testament’s temple attire, use of Urim and Thummum, and reliance of both males and females with metaphysical insight, and where most seem to be confused or adrift on the chapters of Isaiah and Ezekiel and the meaning and intent of the Abrahamic Covenant, Graham brilliantly strangles the reader into the realities and daily life of the ancient inhabitants of the modern Middle East, and makes it all believable and palpable, and he even accurately describes the atrocities and unbelievable vices of ancient temples and standards of those who would follow and serve Baal, all in a way that doesn’t feel odd, preachy, weird-o-ish, and for lack of a better word, is mesmerizing.
The point is that DOW is so expertly written, so absolutely tantalizing, that one is tempted to feel the rush of a story such as Braveheart and do nothing more. In fact, probably most of the book reviewers will talk just about that aspect of DOW, and it is worthy of that kind of attention. But to this reviewer DOW is so much more than a story about dead bodies and interesting Hebrew trivia. It is about the confusion of following God in a land over three thousand years lost, but even more than that, it is about giving, through the recordings of the Bible mixed with a blend of archaic and presentist prose, lessons for our own children about what it means to be a valiant warrior against temptation and sin in a life that has never been more complicated than in the modern day. Brilliantly done. Brilliantly done. Brilliantly done. It feels sophomoric to simply say this is a must read.
On the writing style: graphic, intense battle scenes not for the faint of heart, but a compelling, obsessive-compulsive page turner. Don’t plan on needing sleep for awhile if you read the first chapter late in the evening, you won’t just stop there.
On the Target Audience: Without wanting to sound sexist, this novel is undoubtedly more for males than females, but regardless of gender those who love the history of the world, and especially religious history MUST spend some time in this book. Some will disagree on the characterizations of the some of the prophets and people, simply because David is arguably one of the most controversial, and thus disagreed on beings recorded in the Bible, but regardless of theological perspective, all can appreciate the extremely accurate details of war, and the extremely astute insights on the effect war has on the character in battle.
On the best parts: For 99% of the readers, I think it is highly likely the story pacing, detail, and drama itself is what will be enjoyed. As much as this is good, the message the author is trying to convey, to me, was wonderfully done and not in a corny, super-obvious sort of way.
But, in terms of the best part of the storyline for me...the death of Prince Jonathon, son of Saul = raised, bumpy skin on the arms and legs.
Closing thoughts and overall summary: One word: Unbelievable. Get into this book as soon as you can. This sounds like a paid promotion, it is not, it is hard for me to get into books sometimes as an author because it feels like study...this didn’t, I was enraptured by this brilliantly written novel, and look forward to the rest. Graham is one of the best storytellers on the market today. Really. It is not hard to see why this story is being made into a major motion picture.
Rating: Five T's
Heath Sommer, Ph.D.
Author of The Manufactured Identity
March 5, 2012
Awesome story about one of Ethan's favorite guys - Benaiah. You know, the one who jumped in a pit with a lion on a snowy day? Yes, that one. After reading it, I read through 2nd Samuel and 1st Kings. Not many books will spur you back to the Bible, but this one did. Great read, especially for guys.
September 9, 2011
In Day of War Cliff Graham takes the Biblical account found in 2 Samuel 23 and I Chronicles 11 of the life of David and the soldiers committed to protect him from King Saul. He flawlessly brings the reader into their day-to-day battles of war and survival. References to David’s destiny to the throne of Israel are told through campfire tales from seasoned soldiers to the soldiers new to David’s company. Day of War carries the reader from the time of David’s exile until the death of King Saul. This is the first in a planned five-part series.
The exploits of David during his exile are briefly mentioned in Scripture. Griffin’s purpose is to suppose what life would be like and to flesh out the men who lived during this historical period of time. To accomplish this he studied authentic Jewish resources, read current books about David and spent time in Israel itself. He includes notes on his historical research.
This is the first time I read a movie. No, by this I don’t mean that I’ve read a book that will be a movie (although it seems that rights to this series are in the works) but that I was so engrossed in the book that the events became real. As I was standing on the battlefield blood spattered across my face. The stench of blood, bile and death filled my nostrils. In my efforts to stay with David’s men I tripped over dead bodies. It was real. This book is not for the faint of heart. The images were so authentic that I read a movie.
The exploits of David during his exile are briefly mentioned in Scripture. Griffin’s purpose is to suppose what life would be like and to flesh out the men who lived during this historical period of time. To accomplish this he studied authentic Jewish resources, read current books about David and spent time in Israel itself. He includes notes on his historical research.
This is the first time I read a movie. No, by this I don’t mean that I’ve read a book that will be a movie (although it seems that rights to this series are in the works) but that I was so engrossed in the book that the events became real. As I was standing on the battlefield blood spattered across my face. The stench of blood, bile and death filled my nostrils. In my efforts to stay with David’s men I tripped over dead bodies. It was real. This book is not for the faint of heart. The images were so authentic that I read a movie.
Read
December 20, 2024Christian bookstores have been flooded by an overabundance of light romance and Amish novels that have all meshed together in an indistinguishable conglomeration of formulaic, feel-good fiction (in my unapologetic opinion).
In the midst of all the bonnets and courtship, Day of War by Cliff Graham is a breath of fresh air.
Graham brings you the story of King David and his warriors in a way you've never seen before. His gritty, realistic depiction of ancient warfare in the Bronze and Iron ages is thoroughly researched, and his characters are entirely believable, both as Middle Eastern men and as warriors.
And it only gets better from here. I highly recommend all of Cliff Graham's novels.
In the midst of all the bonnets and courtship, Day of War by Cliff Graham is a breath of fresh air.
Graham brings you the story of King David and his warriors in a way you've never seen before. His gritty, realistic depiction of ancient warfare in the Bronze and Iron ages is thoroughly researched, and his characters are entirely believable, both as Middle Eastern men and as warriors.
And it only gets better from here. I highly recommend all of Cliff Graham's novels.
March 1, 2019
Awesome book. Worth reading for anyone who studies the Bible. It is rich in context, honest in the realities of how things were in that time, and it put a magnifying glass on a particular section of the Bible. There is a lot of imagination, but Graham stays true to the stories in 1 Samuel and weaves the fiction into them so that they are only enhanced in the mind’s eye but not distorted. I feel he likely paints an accurate picture of David, Jonathan, and the Mighty Thirty.
May 7, 2019
A man's book, but very good. It is a little on the morbid side when dealing with the battles that take place, but it really brings alive the same old same old story of David, and his men when they were running from Saul.
July 28, 2011
So, I'm not a fan of war stories. Not movies, not novels, not even the news. I know war happens. I know in a general way what goes on, but I don't like to hear more about it than I need to. I read this novel because I know and respect the author. It would be most flattering to him to say that this novel completely changed my mind about war stories, but that's not the case (sorry Cliff).
I was, however, very impressed with the novel as an example of historical fiction. In every chapter you could see evidence of the meticulous research that went into the tale, from the food they ate to the armor they wore, right down to their opinions about women. The story holds faithful to the accounts in the Hebrew scriptures, embracing the scant details provided there and elaborating on them in a way that makes you think, "yes, it really could have happened like that." The characters come alive and draw you in so that you are there with them, hoping and suffering and celebrating.
The story manages to incorporate the aspects of religion without sounding preachy, which strikes me as a very difficult task when your source material comes directly from the Bible, but it is handled in a delicate, even fascinating manner that should allow readers to either take side with David, strongly believing that this Covering is the answer that will win the day, or take the side of Benaiah, who isn't quite sure whether to believe this isn't all just wishful thinking.
The single most startling moment in the entire book, from my perspective, was when Keth's Hebrew name is revealed. My heart breaks a little, even so early in the tale, to realize what his final fate will be. Very cleverly done.
The final, somewhat unexpected thing I appreciated about this novel was the love the author obviously has for the subject. Historically, religiously, and even personally. I do not know his family, but from the way the tale is written, I almost feel like I can sense the author's love for that family in the telling of it. Passion like that cannot, in my experience, be simulated.
I will be recommending this book to a lot of my male friends, who will appreciate the story AND the testosterone that practically oozes from every paragraph.
I was, however, very impressed with the novel as an example of historical fiction. In every chapter you could see evidence of the meticulous research that went into the tale, from the food they ate to the armor they wore, right down to their opinions about women. The story holds faithful to the accounts in the Hebrew scriptures, embracing the scant details provided there and elaborating on them in a way that makes you think, "yes, it really could have happened like that." The characters come alive and draw you in so that you are there with them, hoping and suffering and celebrating.
The story manages to incorporate the aspects of religion without sounding preachy, which strikes me as a very difficult task when your source material comes directly from the Bible, but it is handled in a delicate, even fascinating manner that should allow readers to either take side with David, strongly believing that this Covering is the answer that will win the day, or take the side of Benaiah, who isn't quite sure whether to believe this isn't all just wishful thinking.
The single most startling moment in the entire book, from my perspective, was when Keth's Hebrew name is revealed. My heart breaks a little, even so early in the tale, to realize what his final fate will be. Very cleverly done.
The final, somewhat unexpected thing I appreciated about this novel was the love the author obviously has for the subject. Historically, religiously, and even personally. I do not know his family, but from the way the tale is written, I almost feel like I can sense the author's love for that family in the telling of it. Passion like that cannot, in my experience, be simulated.
I will be recommending this book to a lot of my male friends, who will appreciate the story AND the testosterone that practically oozes from every paragraph.
March 21, 2012
This novel is the first book in a 5-book series 'produced' by a media company who is also has a comic-book version of the series, a documentary that takes you behind the story, and an in-process full-length feature version.
And it reads like a book designed for 'transmedia', where aspiring media types hope that the whole will be greater than the sum of the parts. "Creating virtually" the production company website proclaims without a hint of irony.
It's hard not to be cynical about the premise of "Day of War", which sounds like it came from a Hollywood business deal ("It's a Christian version of '300!'"), and it's even harder not to be cynical after reading lines like this: "His bulky, muscled frame made his cloak billow out even more, an effect he intended."
The protagonist is a muscular void whose children were killed by the evil Amalekites in a border raid. Unlike the protagonists in Gladiator, 300, and Spartacus, his wife is still alive - a minor change that allows a subplot about his estrangement from his wife as a result of his grief. Instead of humanizing the protagonist, this change somehow still allows for the period and genre trope of marginalizing all female characters.
And the main problem is the genre. This new era of Swords & Sandals movies that started with Gladiator, continued in 300, Clash of the Titans and Immortals, and given a reductio in Spartacus: Blood & Sand is a total mess. It doesn't matter how much computer generated blood is thrown at the screen or on the page, the ultra-violence doesn't make any impact because everything is so aggressively artificial.
And it reads like a book designed for 'transmedia', where aspiring media types hope that the whole will be greater than the sum of the parts. "Creating virtually" the production company website proclaims without a hint of irony.
It's hard not to be cynical about the premise of "Day of War", which sounds like it came from a Hollywood business deal ("It's a Christian version of '300!'"), and it's even harder not to be cynical after reading lines like this: "His bulky, muscled frame made his cloak billow out even more, an effect he intended."
The protagonist is a muscular void whose children were killed by the evil Amalekites in a border raid. Unlike the protagonists in Gladiator, 300, and Spartacus, his wife is still alive - a minor change that allows a subplot about his estrangement from his wife as a result of his grief. Instead of humanizing the protagonist, this change somehow still allows for the period and genre trope of marginalizing all female characters.
And the main problem is the genre. This new era of Swords & Sandals movies that started with Gladiator, continued in 300, Clash of the Titans and Immortals, and given a reductio in Spartacus: Blood & Sand is a total mess. It doesn't matter how much computer generated blood is thrown at the screen or on the page, the ultra-violence doesn't make any impact because everything is so aggressively artificial.
January 2, 2013
In Day of War Cliff Graham takes the Biblical account found in 2 Samuel 23 and I Chronicles 11 of the life of David and the soldiers committed to protect him from King Saul. He flawlessly brings the reader into their day-to-day battles of war and survival. References to David's destiny to the throne of Israel are told through campfire tales from seasoned soldiers to the soldiers new to David's company. Day of War carries the reader from the time of David's exile until the death of King Saul. This is the first in a planned five-part series.
The exploits of David during his exile are briefly mentioned in Scripture. Griffin's purpose is to suppose what life would be like and to flesh out the men who lived during this historical period of time. To accomplish this he studied authentic Jewish resources, read current books about David and spent time in Israel itself. He includes notes on his historical research.
This is the first time I read a movie. No, by this I don't mean that I've read a book that will be a movie (although it seems that rights to this series are in the works) but that I was so engrossed in the book that the events became real. As I was standing on the battlefield blood spattered across my face. The stench of blood, bile and death filled my nostrils. In my efforts to stay with David's men I tripped over dead bodies. It was real. This book is not for the faint of heart. The images were so authentic that I read a movie.
The exploits of David during his exile are briefly mentioned in Scripture. Griffin's purpose is to suppose what life would be like and to flesh out the men who lived during this historical period of time. To accomplish this he studied authentic Jewish resources, read current books about David and spent time in Israel itself. He includes notes on his historical research.
This is the first time I read a movie. No, by this I don't mean that I've read a book that will be a movie (although it seems that rights to this series are in the works) but that I was so engrossed in the book that the events became real. As I was standing on the battlefield blood spattered across my face. The stench of blood, bile and death filled my nostrils. In my efforts to stay with David's men I tripped over dead bodies. It was real. This book is not for the faint of heart. The images were so authentic that I read a movie.
May 18, 2025
Whenever someone asks me, “What’s your favorite fiction book?” I tell them, “Day of War by Cliff Graham.” I have read this book three times now, and this newest edition of the book lives up to that. I was able to pick out most, if not all, of the changes Cliff made to the book in this edition, but none of them detract from the story and, in fact, made it better. Day of War gives the reader insight into what it may have been like to experience life and warfare in Ancient Israel, making it very real. However, at the same time, Cliff consistently points the reader to the God of David, giving Him all of the glory. This book is definitely a must read, and remains my favorite fiction book.
"Does Yahweh…forgive a man if he fails?"
Benaiah asks it aloud without thinking. Thankfully, none of the other men heard him. They are too busy preparing themselves. David does not avert his gaze from the field when he answers.
"He does. None more so than myself."
It is an odd and unexpected response. David's men revere him, his wives respect him, he never seems to fail in whatever he attempts. He pursues the God of their fathers more than any of them.
"Many black things hide in my heart," David says. "Perhaps that is why I am so grateful for his mercy."
"Does Yahweh…forgive a man if he fails?"
Benaiah asks it aloud without thinking. Thankfully, none of the other men heard him. They are too busy preparing themselves. David does not avert his gaze from the field when he answers.
"He does. None more so than myself."
It is an odd and unexpected response. David's men revere him, his wives respect him, he never seems to fail in whatever he attempts. He pursues the God of their fathers more than any of them.
"Many black things hide in my heart," David says. "Perhaps that is why I am so grateful for his mercy."
September 19, 2012
This is a pretty impressive book. No romance, no sweetness, a definite man’s book. War told from the point of view of a soldier and it was written so well that I loved it. I really enjoy a historical fiction that can teach me – creating a story around real-life events. I have heard, briefly, the story of David and when this book came up as a free nook purchase, I jumped at the chance to learn more. Because the book was told from someone else’s viewpoint, I really didn’t get to know David too much. But, I understand there are more books to come and perhaps that’s when we’ll delve into David’s cause and calling. The only complaint I have, is the beginning dragged a bit. I could have gone through the whole lion scene a lot quicker and not felt a loss. I hear there will be a movie – yippee yeah . . . this is definitely a book that can be created into a movie no problem. I look forward to seeing it and reading the rest of this series.
August 8, 2025
This book drastically exceeded my expectations. Perhaps my expectations for Christian fiction have been trained to be low. I'm a scarred man.
But this book is well worth reading. It made me pick up 1 Samuel and re-read David's story.
While admittedly fiction, this book contained no details (to my perception) that contradicted the Scripture. Graham adds chronology and geography to Bible stories that have none, but it really could have happened this way. Thus, without distraction from factual error, I was able to immerse myself in the story.
If you don't mind the violence of war, read this book. It'll be more fun than swimming in a foam pit.
2025 update: Read the second edition. I enjoyed the updates and changes, but not quite as much as they were hyped to be. But still a great read and worth picking up. I'm eager to finally finish the rest of the series as it comes out over the next year.
But this book is well worth reading. It made me pick up 1 Samuel and re-read David's story.
While admittedly fiction, this book contained no details (to my perception) that contradicted the Scripture. Graham adds chronology and geography to Bible stories that have none, but it really could have happened this way. Thus, without distraction from factual error, I was able to immerse myself in the story.
If you don't mind the violence of war, read this book. It'll be more fun than swimming in a foam pit.
2025 update: Read the second edition. I enjoyed the updates and changes, but not quite as much as they were hyped to be. But still a great read and worth picking up. I'm eager to finally finish the rest of the series as it comes out over the next year.
April 14, 2013
I was really excited when a friend from church recommended a book about David. I jumped into reading Day of War with a hopeful frenzy. That soon turned south with the opening lion hunt scene. Maybe its just me, but I tend to like dialogue in books I read. This barely had any verbal interaction between the characters at the start of the book - and really throughout the whole book.
The plot was done well enough. We follow Benaiah through his lion hunt and learn about his wife and dead daughters (happened before the book so not a spoiler). But for some reason, I never attached to Benaiah as a character. The book does step into a few different point of views but I never developed much sympathy or desire to get to know any of them.
I will continue with the next book in the series, but if it doesn't capture my attention from the start, I doubt I'll finish it. Great concept but the writing wasn't for me.
The plot was done well enough. We follow Benaiah through his lion hunt and learn about his wife and dead daughters (happened before the book so not a spoiler). But for some reason, I never attached to Benaiah as a character. The book does step into a few different point of views but I never developed much sympathy or desire to get to know any of them.
I will continue with the next book in the series, but if it doesn't capture my attention from the start, I doubt I'll finish it. Great concept but the writing wasn't for me.
August 3, 2012
WOW!!! I wasn't sure what to think of the book when I started reading it, but I certainly knew what to think about it by the time it ended. The story is told from several different points of view which adds complexity to the plot (even though you know where the story is going and mostly how it will get there if you've read the Bible). I love his depiction of the covering but the best part of the novel is his character development. The author makes you really know and like David's mighty men. I can't wait for the rest of the series. It will be a hard movie to watch though - it's a super violently book all about war. I think men especially will like this book.
July 13, 2012
This book really surprised me. Christian fiction is usually heavy handed and poorly written but Day of War is the exact opposite. The battles are exciting and the accuracy of the tactics as well as the historicity of the account really set a firm foundation for the anchor book in this five tome series.
March 20, 2012
This was definitely worth the read for anyone interested in seeing a Christian story with real-life grits and intense emotion in every sentence.
March 15, 2012
Violent, thrilling and fast paced. More blood than cleaning a deer. This book gives you a great feel for the times of David and his mighty men. I can't wait for the movie to come out.
April 18, 2019
Star Rating: 4 stars
While browsing through my local library, I found Day of War by Cliff Graham and after reading the summary to find out it was about King David and his Mighty Men, I decided to try reading it. Although it does suffer from 1st/debut book syndrome, it was still a really good read, and I am excited to continue in the series.
The best part about this book is the unique perspective that we get on King David because if you read the Bible, then you see a very sensationalized view of one of Israel’s greatest kings, which isn’t a bad thing, but I appreciated how Graham stripped him back and showed us the man behind the legend. A man who completely understood what it means to be God’s chosen one and a leader of men as he refuses to do anything that will set him apart from his people- choosing to march with them, fight on the front lines with them, and if his men have to stay awake to keep watch, then he stays awake with them. He was also able to direct his people to follow God’s path without shoving his faith down their throats or forcing them to believe, but by showing/inspiring them with his actions what it truly means to be a Christian. I especially liked it when his military commanders said that David was a great man except for the fact that he sang a lot (I don’t know why but that part tickled me, especially since that is the prevailing image modern Christians have of David- a man sitting in his throne composing, and the fact that his court may have found that annoying was really funny. ) All in all, I really appreciate this perspective of David as it humanized him.
The one thing that bothered me about this book was Graham did a lot of telling us but not enough showing. It was probably because it was his debut book, and he doesn’t really have a grasp on how to build a world and character through the interactions they have, instead of using descriptions all the time. I am hoping that he improves this with future because he has a lot of potential as an author.
All in all, this was a really strong debut and I am really excited to see where he goes from here. 4 stars!!!!!
While browsing through my local library, I found Day of War by Cliff Graham and after reading the summary to find out it was about King David and his Mighty Men, I decided to try reading it. Although it does suffer from 1st/debut book syndrome, it was still a really good read, and I am excited to continue in the series.
The best part about this book is the unique perspective that we get on King David because if you read the Bible, then you see a very sensationalized view of one of Israel’s greatest kings, which isn’t a bad thing, but I appreciated how Graham stripped him back and showed us the man behind the legend. A man who completely understood what it means to be God’s chosen one and a leader of men as he refuses to do anything that will set him apart from his people- choosing to march with them, fight on the front lines with them, and if his men have to stay awake to keep watch, then he stays awake with them. He was also able to direct his people to follow God’s path without shoving his faith down their throats or forcing them to believe, but by showing/inspiring them with his actions what it truly means to be a Christian. I especially liked it when his military commanders said that David was a great man except for the fact that he sang a lot (I don’t know why but that part tickled me, especially since that is the prevailing image modern Christians have of David- a man sitting in his throne composing, and the fact that his court may have found that annoying was really funny. ) All in all, I really appreciate this perspective of David as it humanized him.
The one thing that bothered me about this book was Graham did a lot of telling us but not enough showing. It was probably because it was his debut book, and he doesn’t really have a grasp on how to build a world and character through the interactions they have, instead of using descriptions all the time. I am hoping that he improves this with future because he has a lot of potential as an author.
All in all, this was a really strong debut and I am really excited to see where he goes from here. 4 stars!!!!!
September 30, 2020
I don’t know about you, but I’m not a fan of books that start with a description of the setting or spend too much time building up the “normal world” of the characters. Get me into the action, man! That’s why Day of War is one of my favorite books.
There’s a prologue, which might turn some readers away, but what if I told you this prologue is one of the best setups for a book filled with rich, well-rounded characters and edge-of-your-seat battles? Sorry, no spoilers here, but you will not be frustrated by this. It’s not tired cliche or a trope graveyard.
So then you’re all primed up after the prologue, and you get straight into the action with one of those verses that are just begging to be turned into full stories. You get action, but you also get a complex character right out of the gate who you immediately feel endeared toward.
At the end of the first scene, you’re mentally applauding Graham for the way he incorporated an obscure verse into the full story, and you want more. It’s one of those chapters you read that makes you realize you missed something in the Bible that should have been obvious.
All of the characters in this book are interesting, and Graham doesn’t waste your time. You’re not going to be bored to death. The battles are well done. Some of the best I’ve ever read. But this isn’t a book for meatheads. Graham is conveying spiritual truths to men. That’s right; this book is definitely geared toward men, but I appreciate that. No offense to anyone, but the majority of Christian fiction is written for an audience predominantly made up of women.
Read my full review on my blog: https://chadpettit.com/review-of-day-...
There’s a prologue, which might turn some readers away, but what if I told you this prologue is one of the best setups for a book filled with rich, well-rounded characters and edge-of-your-seat battles? Sorry, no spoilers here, but you will not be frustrated by this. It’s not tired cliche or a trope graveyard.
So then you’re all primed up after the prologue, and you get straight into the action with one of those verses that are just begging to be turned into full stories. You get action, but you also get a complex character right out of the gate who you immediately feel endeared toward.
At the end of the first scene, you’re mentally applauding Graham for the way he incorporated an obscure verse into the full story, and you want more. It’s one of those chapters you read that makes you realize you missed something in the Bible that should have been obvious.
All of the characters in this book are interesting, and Graham doesn’t waste your time. You’re not going to be bored to death. The battles are well done. Some of the best I’ve ever read. But this isn’t a book for meatheads. Graham is conveying spiritual truths to men. That’s right; this book is definitely geared toward men, but I appreciate that. No offense to anyone, but the majority of Christian fiction is written for an audience predominantly made up of women.
Read my full review on my blog: https://chadpettit.com/review-of-day-...
August 15, 2019
Pastor Matt Chandler of the Village Church called this series of books one of his favourite fiction reads. I concur. Although, calling this book pure"fiction" may be a bit of a stretch. I would say that it is, more appropriately "historical fiction", if such a genre exists.
The first book tells the biblical account of David's encounter with the Amalekites after their raid of Ziklag (1 Samuel 30). The account, however, is mostly told from the vantage point of Benaiah, one of David's mighty men, as he battles his own demons of rage, bloodlust and marital failure.
We also get the accounts of Eliam, a water-carrier in King Saul's army and trainee armour bearer for Jonathan as well as views from within the Amalekite camp.
In this way, the biblical story comes alive in fresh ways. The writing is gripping; conveying fully the horrors of war in the ancient world. At the same time, the characters are developed well enough for the reader to relate to them as human beings and not just mythical characters in the Bible.
I personally enjoyed that the author didn't dwell too much on the person of David, although a fairly vivid picture of his character and motivations comes out, but chose to focus on the people around him. You can also tell that the research was thorough; to the point that its quite easy to distinguish conjecture from fact.
All told, this is a wonderful book. So good, in fact, that I will be immediately be proceeding to read Book 2 in the series.
The first book tells the biblical account of David's encounter with the Amalekites after their raid of Ziklag (1 Samuel 30). The account, however, is mostly told from the vantage point of Benaiah, one of David's mighty men, as he battles his own demons of rage, bloodlust and marital failure.
We also get the accounts of Eliam, a water-carrier in King Saul's army and trainee armour bearer for Jonathan as well as views from within the Amalekite camp.
In this way, the biblical story comes alive in fresh ways. The writing is gripping; conveying fully the horrors of war in the ancient world. At the same time, the characters are developed well enough for the reader to relate to them as human beings and not just mythical characters in the Bible.
I personally enjoyed that the author didn't dwell too much on the person of David, although a fairly vivid picture of his character and motivations comes out, but chose to focus on the people around him. You can also tell that the research was thorough; to the point that its quite easy to distinguish conjecture from fact.
All told, this is a wonderful book. So good, in fact, that I will be immediately be proceeding to read Book 2 in the series.
May 12, 2025
Improvement upon perfection? Yes!
I read this book and what was in the book series years ago when it first came out and couldn't believe the goldmine of scriptural manhood I read and reread. Unfortunately, a severe detour was taken by the author, but God. God had other plans, original plans that overrode any plans of the enemy to thwart the author. So, here we are with the best version of Day of War.
This is the book for any man looking for what it means to be a true man of God in a very confusing world. The book is quite literally ripped from the pages of biblical history and the heart of God for every single man. The pacing is absolutely perfect for a book of this type. The detail never too overwhelming but enough to fill in the necessary details and keep the narrative flowing. This will get the heart of any man pumping. As a 20 US Army combat veteran with three deployments to Iraq this story gets it all correct. The camaraderie to the feelings of battles. The things that only combat veterans will laugh at. Making Gareb a type of senior NCO (a retired Senior NCO myself) is magic! I recommend this book not only for men but for any men's Church group to go through together. You will find the heart of God for every man in this book, namely the heart of a warrior.
I read this book and what was in the book series years ago when it first came out and couldn't believe the goldmine of scriptural manhood I read and reread. Unfortunately, a severe detour was taken by the author, but God. God had other plans, original plans that overrode any plans of the enemy to thwart the author. So, here we are with the best version of Day of War.
This is the book for any man looking for what it means to be a true man of God in a very confusing world. The book is quite literally ripped from the pages of biblical history and the heart of God for every single man. The pacing is absolutely perfect for a book of this type. The detail never too overwhelming but enough to fill in the necessary details and keep the narrative flowing. This will get the heart of any man pumping. As a 20 US Army combat veteran with three deployments to Iraq this story gets it all correct. The camaraderie to the feelings of battles. The things that only combat veterans will laugh at. Making Gareb a type of senior NCO (a retired Senior NCO myself) is magic! I recommend this book not only for men but for any men's Church group to go through together. You will find the heart of God for every man in this book, namely the heart of a warrior.
July 17, 2023
I really enjoy historical fiction, and especially fiction that retells a stories from Scripture that are faithful to the biblical narrative. As long as it’s faithful to Scripture, I’m pretty easy to please in this genre.
I picked this up to screen it for my 11-year old. It’s still a bit too old for his age (pre-pubescent boys don’t need to read even historical accounts of women being captured in war or even of husbands righteously longing to return from war to the sexual embrace of their wives). Graham undertook much research for the book, and the result is an engaging book that brings the lives of ancient Israelite warriors and the experiences of David and his men to life.
The depiction of God’s anointing for battle being like a feeling of physical fire in the bones of his warriors felt like a stretch, but I get he had to describe somehow the Spirit’s anointing and emphasize that these men’s most feats were supernatural and not of themselves.
Overall, I enjoyed it and look forward to the next book in the series.
I picked this up to screen it for my 11-year old. It’s still a bit too old for his age (pre-pubescent boys don’t need to read even historical accounts of women being captured in war or even of husbands righteously longing to return from war to the sexual embrace of their wives). Graham undertook much research for the book, and the result is an engaging book that brings the lives of ancient Israelite warriors and the experiences of David and his men to life.
The depiction of God’s anointing for battle being like a feeling of physical fire in the bones of his warriors felt like a stretch, but I get he had to describe somehow the Spirit’s anointing and emphasize that these men’s most feats were supernatural and not of themselves.
Overall, I enjoyed it and look forward to the next book in the series.
February 3, 2017
"Every day is the day of war."
To be honest it took me 2 attempts to read this all the way through. I can't explain coherent reasoning bc I really enjoyed this book when it was all said and done.
I loved how it took the bible stories I grew up reading and made them more real. Getting depth to the stories and character that are otherwise grazed over was thrilling and unique.
I wouldn't say this was the best written book I've read but it was compelling and certain moments really impressed me. (the covering, the battles)
The faith portrayed didn't feel contrived or awkward as most Christian writing does and the characters were not presented as your typical "holier than thou" "christian" characters. they were real men who lived in a gritty time of bloody battles and gruesome wars and they were very good at what they did- killing. I'm grateful the author did not try to sugar coat their lives.
well done. I will be reading more from this author.
To be honest it took me 2 attempts to read this all the way through. I can't explain coherent reasoning bc I really enjoyed this book when it was all said and done.
I loved how it took the bible stories I grew up reading and made them more real. Getting depth to the stories and character that are otherwise grazed over was thrilling and unique.
I wouldn't say this was the best written book I've read but it was compelling and certain moments really impressed me. (the covering, the battles)
The faith portrayed didn't feel contrived or awkward as most Christian writing does and the characters were not presented as your typical "holier than thou" "christian" characters. they were real men who lived in a gritty time of bloody battles and gruesome wars and they were very good at what they did- killing. I'm grateful the author did not try to sugar coat their lives.
well done. I will be reading more from this author.
August 3, 2023
INTENSE! While a general knowledge of ancient Hebrew historical timelines and cultural practices is not required to enjoy this book series, it will greatly enhance the reader’s experience. The author brings you into the heart and mind of the Hebrew warriors of renown, specifically The Three. Brotherhood, bravery, honor, commitment, reverant submission to God despite being opposed by the greatest forces of darkness.
Phenomenal research and meticulous detail went into creating this series. I really appreciate the author’s first hand knowledge of combat that permeates the work. I find this to be an extremely insightful and creative take on the nuances of personality and character, provided the Biblical texts do not give the reader such high resolution insights. It reads more like a plausible expounding on Biblical history and narrative as opposed to complete fiction.
Phenomenal research and meticulous detail went into creating this series. I really appreciate the author’s first hand knowledge of combat that permeates the work. I find this to be an extremely insightful and creative take on the nuances of personality and character, provided the Biblical texts do not give the reader such high resolution insights. It reads more like a plausible expounding on Biblical history and narrative as opposed to complete fiction.
November 16, 2016
Excellent book of action and history. This is a fictional story based on real people and real places and actual events. The fiction comes by way of additional detail and dot-connecting. The story is biblical with plausible enhancement-added portions do not contradict the scripture but rely on historical accounts. There is such an amazing layer of richness added to the bible stories that I know so well, making them more memorable and vivid. We tend to wash away the grit and blood from stories we read in times gone by. Context is lost with time and distance. Thank you Graham for putting it back in an artistic and compelling way.
January 9, 2018
Action packed history coming to life
A superb combination of history, warfare, and faith that will carry you into the ancient world of the Bible with some of its most iconic figures.
Well-researched and written with excellent pacing and meaningful development of both the plot and dynamic characters. I thoroughly enjoyed the way the story weaved in the incredible feats of David's mighty men. Just the right amount of imagery to transport the reader into the story without over doing it, and the revealing of the origin stories of the characters make this a very enjoyable read with a challenging message for follower of God!
A superb combination of history, warfare, and faith that will carry you into the ancient world of the Bible with some of its most iconic figures.
Well-researched and written with excellent pacing and meaningful development of both the plot and dynamic characters. I thoroughly enjoyed the way the story weaved in the incredible feats of David's mighty men. Just the right amount of imagery to transport the reader into the story without over doing it, and the revealing of the origin stories of the characters make this a very enjoyable read with a challenging message for follower of God!
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