Song of Redemption (Chronicles of the Kings #2)

I love historical fiction and I really like the imagery this brought to another great Bible story. This was well done. The characters were developed well and each chapter left me wanted more and anxious to read the next thing that was going to happen in their lives. Kings, prophets, priests, war and slaves but trust and love… doubts and redemption make this Novel a great read!

The Chronicles of the Kings book series, and Song of Redemption in particular, have helped me gain a better understanding of the people and stories in the Old Testament. In this book I came to know King Hezekiah in a way I never would have been able to by just reading the scriptures. For example, even though his father, King Ahaz, worshipped foreign gods (and sacrificed his own son in Book 1 of the series), Hezekiah became a king who followed the ways of the Lord. Why? Because he'd learned about the true God from his grandfather, and also through the prophet Isaiah who was living at that time. Reading this book along with the Bible is enlightening and exciting. The author makes the details of the characters' lives so real you feel as if you know them personally. If you want to understand the people and times of the Old Testament, as well as enjoy a good story, I highly recommend you read this book.

Oh my goodness. This series it so good. Lynn Austin is seriously one of the best christian authors out there. I can be very picky with books... but this one... it definitely hits the spot. There is just enough adventure, mystery, faith and romance to satisfy all readers. Most importantly, however, the author takes a great biblical story and sticks to the word which creating a whole world full of unique characters and experiences that are appropriate and believable for the time. The author also really builds on the characters and story... You can tell she did her research. Also... It definitely never has a dull moment. I'd pay for this series all over again. I have loaned the book out to any friend that would just take the minute to read the first chapter.... You won't put it down after that.

Song of Redemption, the second book in Lynn Austin’s Gods and Kings series, is nothing short of powerful. Picking up where Gods and Kings left off, this story continues the journey of King Hezekiah as he tries to lead Judah back to the one true God amidst overwhelming political pressure, personal pain, and spiritual warfare. Lynn Austin masterfully brings biblical events to life with a rich blend of historical detail, emotional depth, and spiritual insight. The challenges Hezekiah faces—from threats of war to betrayal from within—mirror the inner battles of faith many of us face today. The characters are beautifully developed, and their growth throughout the story is both inspiring and convicting. What I especially loved about Song of Redemption is how it explores the theme of restoration—how God can take a broken past and turn it into a testimony of grace. It reminded me that redemption is always possible, no matter how dark the situation may seem. If you loved Gods and Kings, this historical fiction sequel will absolutely draw you deeper into the story and into reflection on your own walk with God. Highly recommended for fans of biblical fiction and anyone looking for a story full of hope, courage, and unwavering faith.

Lynn Austin is one of my favorite authors. I am enjoying this series and, at 3.99 for the Kindle version, I can't complain about the price. First, the negative: I found the tunnel-construction logistics a little difficult to understand. I was not quite sure why Shebna and Eliakim were arguing because I had trouble grasping what exactly they were suggesting. My main complaint is about Jerusha's storyline. If you haven't read the book yet be warned there are spoilers coming. Okay, so I found her reaction to being kidnapped and the subsequent abuse very believable and well-written if hard to read. It was awful what she went through. As soon as she got to Hilkiah's house, I started to feel like Austin rushed her recovery a bit. I'm no psychologist, but I doubt that much trauma is going to be overcome with no counseling (or even discussing it with someone) in a matter of maybe a few months, at most. Also she was eager to marry Eliakim once she realized he didn't blame her for the abuse. I felt their relationship should have taken more time to grow. It just felt forced. This is not a reason to skip the book; I really enjoyed it as a whole, but have read other books that portrayed character's dealing with past trauma more realistically. Now for the good: It's not necessary to fully understand the tunnel-construction-disaster thing for it to be effective. Hilkiah is so awesome. Hezekiah is very, very well-written. It's like Austin got right with him what she missed with Jerusha. Hezekiah is still haunted by the sacrifice he saw as a child. When Zechariah died, I was heart-broken for him. He is a great character. I loved seeing him wrestle with truly trusting God in the face of an impossible situation. Also I loved when he told Hephzibah to stop calling him "my lord". Their marriage is in for some rough times ahead. Hephzibah was another score for Austin. I really felt for her even as she turned her back on God. I never realized how restrictive some of the Jewish laws were. Overall: 4/5 If you're a fan of Austin, you'll probably like Song of Redemption. The same goes if you're just looking for a book you can lose yourself in for a while. It's not Austin's best, but it's still Austin which means it's good.

Great book. Had me captivated to the last page. Joy and sorrow with the ultimate realization that God always has a plan.

What a brilliant follow up book. I had to buy the kindle set as not all of the series are on audible. The events are very believable and it must have been a very dangerous time to be in Judah with the Assyrians so close by and threatening to descend. The characters were so well developed, I did however find Hephzibah incredibly annoying, but I expect that is just my impression of her - weak, whiny, stupid and pathetic. It was all so addictive I read it in 2 to 3 days even though they were work days. The next one is on audible, so back there for the next installment.

Der 2. Teil der Chronik war genau so spannend wie der 1. Teil. Die Geschichten gehen nahtlos ineinander über und man kann sofort ein Buch nach dem anderen weiterlesen. Ich wollte anfangs an das Thema "altes Testament" gar nicht heran, habe es aber in keinster Weise bereut. Sehr zu empfehlen !!!

Some of the scenes were too graphic for me to read to my kids, so I had to censor them. We did enjoy the story apart from that. Will definitely read the next book in the series.

Anyone who loves the Bible will enjoy reading this book. The message of faith is like a testimony for me!!

I have not finished this book yet but am enjoying it very much. Lynn Austin does a very good job of writing historical fiction, both biblical and American. This book helps the events and times of the kings come to life. I am hoping that if I read the whole series it will help me get a clearer picture of the various kings and the timeline.