Book Review: The 13th Tribe

Their story didn’t start this year . . . or even this millennium. 

It began when Moses was on Mt. Sinai. Tired of waiting on the One True God, the twelve tribes of Israel began worshipping a golden calf through pagan revelry. Many received immediate death for their idolatry, but 40 were handed a far worse punishment—endless life on earth with no chance to see the face of God.

This group of immortals became the 13th Tribe, and they’ve been trying to earn their way into heaven ever since—by killing sinners. Though their logic is twisted, their brilliance is undeniable. Their wrath is unstoppable. And the technology they possess is beyond anything mere humans have ever seen.

Jagger Baird knows nothing about the Tribe when he’s hired as head of security for an archaeological dig on Mt. Sinai. The former Army Ranger is still reeling from an accident that claimed the life of his best friend, his arm, and his faith in God.

The Tribe is poised to execute their most ambitious attack ever and the lives of millions hang in the balance. When Jagger’s wife and son are caught in the crossfire, he’ll stop at nothing to save them. But how can one man stand against an entire tribe of immortals?

When I began reading this book, I thought t myself, "Kianna, why did you do this to yourself again?" By again I meant choosing another sci-fi, thriller, dangerous bad guy v.s. vulnerable good guy book. By again I meant choosing a book like Alienation A C.H.A.O.S Novel. I misjudged both books when I read the first few pages, but as I neared their endings, I was pleased to have them as a part of my library. 

Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres. I have yet to read a historical fiction book that dated back to the days of Moses, the Israelites and the happenings on Mount Sinai. Robert's retelling of Israel's sin in making a golden calf as an idol is unique. Unique is a trait that makes any reading experience enjoyable. According to Liparulo, those who offered sacrifices to the golden calf and tasted the blood weren't killed but were cursed with immortality.

When I began this book I was a bit lost. I couldn't keep up with the multiple minor and major characters and their lives. As I continued reading,  I was able to put the pieces together and figure it all out.

The plot of this story was well written. I enjoyed the suspense this book gave me. Another plus for my reading experiences is when I think I know what is going to happen and as I read on, figure out that my predictions were wrong. Robert achieved this and more. My jaw dropped several times while reading this book.

The characters and their emotions were all very realistic. I enjoyed the emphasis on "saved by grace." The Tribe members sinned and tried  to save themselves by doing "good" works. They felt as though they needed to "eliminate" every sinner in order to win God's favor. One of their captives tries to share that because of Jesus' sacrifice, they didn't have to continue offering "human sacrifices". Jagger was bitter, as one would expect from a person who's life took terrible turns for the worst. Through all of his trials, he reaffirmed their faith in God.

One thing that I disliked was the violence. Murders and dangerous chases were vividly painted. I like my books to be as family friendly as possible.

I received this book from Book Sneeze in exchange for my honest review.