Babylon's Falling Book Review

Book Review of Babylon's Falling
  by William G. Collins
"The Story of Belteshazzar, also known as Daniyyel"

     This is the first offering from new author William G. Collins.  It's historical fiction on the main part of Daniel's life covered in the Old Testament.  At this time, Jerusalem is under yet another siege, as prophesied through Jeremiah.  The inhabitants of Jerusalem, if not killed, were taken captive to ancient Babylon on a four month march through arid wasteland.  Daniel and his three friends are part of this march, and will be forced into becoming part of Chaldean culture once they arrive in Babylon.  Upon their entry, they are given new Chaldean names, a high rank in the king's courts, and most of all temptation to forget their first love of God and become just another element of idolatry and apostasy.  With Daniel's constant help and reminders, the four friends boldly continue to serve God and follow the teachings of their patriarchal forefathers.  Daniel is again moved to a higher position within the Babylonian government.  Follow Daniel's journey as the great empire falls, and Cyrus the Great delivers the original Judahite people back to their land.
   I'm having trouble giving a satisfactory review for this book, and here's why.  While the topic and storyline are interesting, even if you don't necessarily enjoy historical or biblical fiction, the writing is sadly lacking.  I feel as if very little effort was put into making this book an enjoyable read.  Within the first two chapters, there are multiple spelling and editing errors.  I'm not sure how this book got through WestBow publishing without a serious overhaul.  Descriptive details are nonexistent, making you unable to even get a clear view of what is happening in the minds eye.  I also feel that as the author was trying to write "to our times," he missed out completely on capturing the language of the seventh century.  There is very little character development, and the narrative is quite loose.  Now, trying to focus on what is right with this book.  Daniel is of course inspirational, and encourages you to stand firm in your beliefs, even against insurmountable odds.  It was also enjoyable to get a closer look into his magnificent story.  He's a true biblical mentor, in whom every Christian should model their faith.  If you are looking for a quick and light read, then pick this one up.  If you are looking for an in depth study into Daniel's extraordinary life, then you need to search out Beth Moore's Daniel study. 

(I received this book free from BookSneeze.com as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")