D. J. Niko

The Judgment is an historical novel based on the life and reign of the biblical Solomon. It is very well written, descriptive and lyrical.

I have to admit to not knowing much of Solomon's story. I'm more familiar with his father, David's story, as I have always been fascinated by the story of David and Bathsheba. The author has done a wonderful job of telling the story (with some embellishment, I'm sure), taking the reader on a jury into the historical and biblical past. However, I have to admit to having a hard time with all the religious talk. My views on religion have changed dramatically in the last four years so the religious dedication, and at times, fervor the characters experience was a bit much for me. I had to keep reminding myself how important religion was, especially in historic times.

Niko definitely has a knack for storytelling and she even writes a fantastic battle/siege scene. The opening scene when the women and children flee to the tunnel was nail biting. Also, the plotting of Solomon's wife, Nicaule, and how easily Solomon is deceived, was an intriguing part of the story. Once again, a man makes his decisions from the wrong end of his body. Why does it still surprise me when this happens in a story? It really shouldn't.

I have not read Niko's Sarah Weston Chronicles yet, but upon reading The Judgment, I'm definitely adding them to my to-be-read list. I look forward to her future historical offerings as well.… (mehr)

“The Judgment” is an historical fiction based on rise and fall of the biblical King, Solomon. It follows the story of his arranged marriage and subsequent relationship with his Egyptian wife,Nicole, intertwined with the political machinations of the new Israelite state. The story is well research and beautifully written, as are all of D.J.Niko's books. The characters are believable and brought to life in this story of love, betrayal and mystery and adventure.

I must confess that I didn't enjoy this as much as I have other D.J.Niko books. I didn't get that can't-put-it-down experience, like I get from the Sarah Weston Chronicles. This lacks the humour and rollicking adventure feel of those offerings. Overall, it's a good read.

I received a copy of this book from Medallion Press in exchange for a fair and honest… (mehr)

I received this book as part of LibraryThing's Early Reviewers program, and it was absolutely worth the read. It was an advanced reading copy, which I imagine will differ very little from the definitive book.

It's very nice biblical history, and a nice story too. All the bible tells us about Solomon is there, and more to boot, too. It's all very plausible ande well told. The invented parts and characters (we don't know that much, after all) could perfectly be true, and are interesting.

So much so, that I'd gladly read a second part telling us about the fate of all the main characters: Solomon's daughter and grandaughter, the scheming Nicaule, etc.… (mehr)