This is a beautiful book. It really spoke to me. It is the story of one man's journey to seek and find Jesus. The author’s brilliant writing style took me away to the time and place of that Holy Night. Even though it is a Christmas book, I would recommend it for any time of the year. It stirred my spirit and mind. I highly recommend this 5 star book. It is a must-read for everyone!

In The Last Man at the Inn, William Bennett builds a fictional tale around a true story. We are not definite about what happens outside of the Bible account, but I love Biblical fiction for the fact that it gets our wheels turning and helps us imagine what it may have been like.
Bennett has a great progressive plot as well as the character development being on par.

One man's quest to believe.

This brings alive the story of Jesus, from His birth to crucifixion, through the eyes of a man named Simon. Simon was in Bethlehem when Jesus was born, in fact he was the reason that there was no room at the in, because he didn't give up his place for the young couple and they were forced to take shelter in a stable. After hearing about Jesus birth there that night, he Simon felt bad about not giving up his room. Simon also struggled with all that he learned of Jesus through the years, listening but not joining in with those who taught about Jesus, including Simon's own sons. But in the end he finally came around and truly became part of the story of Jesus - a time at His crucifixion that will be remembered through the ages. Well written story of a real human, struggling to understand what Jesus, His life and teachings meant to him. Excellent read - well worth your time.
I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#TheLastManAtTheInn #RWilliamBennett #NetGalley #ChristianHistorical #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout

The Last Man at the Inn is one of those stories that really makes you think: Would I have acted differently?
R. William Bennett’s book follows the life of Jesus from His birth in a lowly manger in Bethlehem throughout His ministry to His crucifixion. We observe all of this through the eyes of Simon, who Bennett paints as the man who took the last room at the inn, leaving Mary and Joseph without lodging when her time to give birth had come.
Simon is a Jew basically in name only who practices the faith just enough to keep his wife happy. Out for an evening walk, he wanders by the manger where Mary and Joseph are with the newborn Jesus and feels a sense of peace and sacredness that he doesn’t really understand. The next day, he hears talk in the marketplace that the birth was the fulfillment of ancient prophecy: the arrival of the promised Messiah.
In Bennett’s story, Simon hears the Sermon on the Mount and listens to testimonies about various miracles that Christ performed. He even observes his own son embracing faith in Christ after witnessing the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist.
After following the earthly ministry of Jesus throughout His life, Simon comes out of the crowd to help Jesus with the burden of carrying the cross. By the time of the resurrection, Simon is a firm believer who works to carry on the ministry of Christ.
This is a beautifully written and very relatable story I would highly recommend to anyone seeking an inspirational book to read at Christmas or really any time of the year! I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley, but I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are entirely my own.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of The Last Man at the Inn.
For most devout Christians, this story of Simon the Cyrene is not unfamiliar. Simon was compelled by the Romans to carry Jesus's cross when he appeared to have no strength to do it himself. Bennett here proposes the back story of Simon, an upstanding, honest, family man and successful trader. Although not particularly religious himself, Simon grew up hearing the same prophecies that his family, his neighbors, and surrounding cities are now convinced are coming to pass. I saw in Simon a man of intellect, one who was not necessarily an UNbeliever, but more a man who did not jump on emotional bandwagons and preferred to make his decisions based on facts and first-hand information.

Having been familiar with this story from childhood, I found this retelling lacking in enough suspense to propel the story forward. IMHO, the carrying of the cross and the moment of Simon's "conversion" experience lacked the emotion I expected it should have engendered.

When we read the crucifixion accounts in the synoptic gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, we come across the previously unknown, yet now important, figure of Simon of Cyrene. Who was Simon? What was he doing there, so far from home? We know from his Hebrew name that he was Jewish, so it was possible that he was in Jerusalem for the Passover, but nothing else except that he was from a community in northern Africa. R. William Bennett sets out to imagine this man’s life and how he came to be known for thousands of years after.

Bennett’s Simon is not particularly religious. He keeps the Laws only to keep his wife happy, but doesn’t see a personal need to obey them while away from home. He’s not a man to turn down ham or shellfish stew, for example. He’s a practical man, who thrives on business, so he pays more attention to Roman laws that could benefit or hinder his business. Does he feel bad when he sees the innkeeper deny the young couple at the door? Yes and no; sure she’s obviously pregnant, but he was there first and he’s tired. The publisher’s overview tells the rest of the story.

This Simon never meets Jesus until that day in Jerusalem, but he comes to believe before then because of what he hears. In this sense, the tale is an allegory: in 2019, we believe through the words of the gospels and not because we meet Jesus face to face. Many of us are not particularly religious, but we think of ourselves as good people because we keep the civil laws. I understand what Bennett was trying to do but I wonder about his intended audience. Would a non-believer come to believe and accept through his story? Or is the Christian community being encouraged to do more?

I would’ve preferred a more in-depth novel. The time between Jesus’ birth and crucifixion goes almost too quickly. I would’ve liked more on Simon’s business, his family, his community, how he handled the religious and cultural aspects of his son’s marriage, and what might have happened when his keeping of Roman law contradicted his wife’s steadfastness to Jewish law, etc. Because of my reading preferences, the result is a novella which didn’t satisfy this reader.

Disclaimer: I received an electronic copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. I was not required to write a review, and the words above are my own.

It has never occurred to me before to wonder about the man who took the place that Jesus' parents might have had at the inn - or any others who might have heard their requests for a room. Obviously it's not something we know anything about, but I found it an interesting idea to ponder, particularly when we then follow the life of the man and he is linked with Jesus' life on various occasions. As far as the main character is concerned I don't think I should need to say that the chances of it all (or at all, other than one small scene) being true are basically zero, but it does make an interesting story of Jesus' life and ministry from the point of view of an outsider - who eventually became a disciple. I found it particularly thought-provoking when it came to talking about the stories and rumours that floated around the country about Jesus and his message for most of his life - I've never really thought about how much his birth and escape to Egypt were talked about, just assumed it was all fairly unknown, but maybe not.

Overall, an interesting and thought-provoking book. Nothing in particular struck me as obviously wrong from a Biblical point of view (as far as I recall), which was good, and the writing is generally good. I hope to see more by the author.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

When Joseph inquired for room at an inn for he and his wife, Mary, the last vacancy had just been secured by another person. This is the story of that person, Simon -- a not-very-observant Jewish man who struggles with his faith while experiencing the impact of the birth and life of Jesus. An interesting look at an outsider's perspective of the time period and a relatable journey for those who struggle with faith.

I LOVED this book! One man's journey to seek and find Jesus took me on my own journey to strengthen my devotion to my Savior. This is a perfect book, especially as we start the "holiday season." I highly recommend this one! It is a must-read for everyone!

I felt like I could relate so well to Simon the Spice merchant. It made me wonder what it would have been like for me, living in the time when Christ was on the earth, from his birth to his death. The whispering, the stories, the miracles, would I have believed? Would I have been like Simon and took my time with it?

I was excited when I realized this was by the same author that wrote Jacob Marley. I love how he looks at these commonly known and loved stories from a different perspective.

This book evoked deep thought and feeling for me. I found myself crying a long with Simon and his family and hoping that I would have been among the believers at that time. The ending was fitting and beautiful considering Simon's journey. I love that it came full circle and brought him back to the Inn in question.

I felt like I had an intimate view of the events surrounding the birth and life of our Savior. I couldn't ask for a more perfect Christmas book.though it could be read at anytime.

This was a wonderful book about what man's experience could have been at the time of the birth of Christ. It reminded me a bit of the book Master by Tori Sorenson. I loved the perspective of seeing the birth of Christ and His ministry from the perspective of a normal person and how it influenced their lives. This book touched my heart for sure and helped remind of our Savior's journey through life and His sacrifice. Beautifully done.

Thank you Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC!

This is a fictional account of the life of Simon of Cyrene and the times that his life intersected through the years with the life of Jesus. The author infuses this book with his own obvious love for Christ and faith in Him.

This story captured my imagination and helped me to have empathy with those who were the first to place their trust in Jesus as Messiah. I could identify with Simon’s struggle to comprehend the facts of Jesus’ life and ministry and believe that Jesus is Who He says He is. It’s a great book to read not only during the Christmas season, but at any time of year when you want a faith-based story to read. This book will touch your heart and encourage your your faith.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

I was expecting this to be more of a Christmas story, but while Simon does see Jesus shortly after His birth, most of the story takes place in later years of Christ's life and it's much more a story about coming to know and follow Christ, to decide whether or not to seek Him and believe or not. I really enjoyed that journey and there were parts of Simon's experience that I could relate to really well on my own journey to know and follow Christ. So it wasn't the Christmas story I was expecting, but it was definitely worth reading.

I read an ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

# TheLastManAtTheIinn #NetGalley

A novel based on a family, living at the time of Christ. Simeon is a merchant who sells spices. When Simeon starts hearing the rumors, that the long awaited Messiah is preaching, Simeon is skeptical. When his family starts to believe, Simeon questions, what his own beliefs are. Follow the teacrhings of Jesus, a book that can be a part of your family traditions,

A wonderful tale of discovering faith through a mans life. Simon is merchant who happens to be in Bethlehem the night of the Saviors birth. The journey s just begun for the man who is a Jew but must eventually decide does he believe or live like one?
A well, written engaging story (finished in one afternoon). I felt the author did a nice job describing the feelings of personal struggle but felt the build up or description of the resolutions and happiness were a bit downpayed. Made for a bit of a let down at times.
I give 4 stars instead of 5 because the title, cover and description lead you to believe this is a new take on the 4th wiseman tale. I expected the book to have a Christmas tone. It isn't a Christmasy book but an enjoyable book to be read anytime of the year.

Full review will be posted on CelticsLibrary.com by 8/24/2019 and I will update here as well.

Simon is the reason that there was no room at the inn for Mary and Joseph. After that fateful evening, Simon's life, and the whole world, is changed. This story follows Simon on his journey from doubt to belief that Jesus is the son of God. It is well written and a quick read. This is a good story for long time believers and those who are new with their relationship with God

“Simon was a Jew, but he kept his religion in a manner driven by convenience. He was a decent and honest man. He worked hard....However, he saw no need for the traditions and trappings of his Judaism unless they helped him...He did not bother God when he had control of his situation and needed no divine intervention. He felt he did the truly important things right and did not let the rest bother him.”

And so begins our description of Simon. Simon leads a very normal life as a merchant. He leaves his wife for months at a time, buying and selling spices for profit and then returning home to his God fearing, loving wife. One fateful trip starts him on a journey through the rest of his life that would change the entire world and those around him. The census was going on and there were no rooms to be found to stay during the night. Fortunately for Simon, a drunken man was thrown out of an inn and he was able to snatch up the spot before anyone else. Once seated and eating, a young couple comes to the door pleading for a place to stay. The man’s wife was heavily pregnant but the inn keeper turns them away because there simply was no room left and Simon was not willing to give up his comfortable lodgings. He feels a tad bit of guilt, but tries to use his logic to soothe his conscience. That was the night that Jesus was born. His whole life quickly shifts and starts him on the path to believing Jesus and strengthening his faith. This is a great novel for those who are firm in their faith, along with those who are just starting in their relationship with God. This is not just a Christmas story. This story of Simon’s follows along many years from Jesus’ birth up to Simon’s part in His crucifixion.

I really enjoyed this book it was a surprise to me because I really wasn't sure what I was reading and thought it was a made up story but come to find out It's completely different! Have heard the story and read in the Bible of Jesus both and all that took place before hand and after but this the way it is written it gives you the sense of being there with Simon and everything he explained and experienced. Was given this from Net Galley so glad I chose it! It's a very much read it you help in Jesus and God and it you don't or in doubt them you won't be after this read!!

What a wonderful, wonderful book. The Last Man at the Inn takes us straight into life in Bethlehem, on that night which witnessed the turning point in human history. It’s as if we are right there – experiencing it for ourselves, rather than just reading about it. However, it then leaves us with the question : would we have acted any differently from Simon? Without the benefit of knowing the significance of his action, would I have acted any differently from Simon? I loved this book, despite it’s being a challenge. Guilt can be carried as an unseen burden for many years – for a lifetime – & there is only One who can relieve us of that load. I’m so glad I have let Him : have you?

Captivated with a different perspective from the night of Jesus' birth.

We follow the life of Simon, a Jewish spice merchant, who takes the last room in an over crowded Bethlehem the night Jesus is born. We will follow the life of Simon and his family over a span of 33 years. The things he saw and heard would follow him and shape the rest of his life.

I loved this book from the first words. Having travelled to the Holy Land my mind was easily transported to a place I know well. Inwardly, I was challenged with thoughts, "Who really was the last person to take that room?" "Did they hear the pleas of Joseph?" "Would I have easily believed or been skeptical?"
It's good to read a book that engages you and challenges you as if you were there when history was unfolding.

Thank you Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to provide my thoughts on this book.

Simon is a Jew, married with a baby on the way. He “kept his religion in a manner driven by convenience. (…) he saw no need for the traditions and trappings of his Judaism unless they helped him. Or his wife insisted he keep them.”

He is forced to travel to Bethlehem due to census. He doesn’t understand why there is such turmoil over counting people. One night, not able to sleep, he takes a walk outside the city of Bethlehem and comes across a cave; inside it he sees a mere peasant woman and man, and a baby. He doesn’t know what it is, but he senses something special.

The following day, as he sells his spices to another merchant, he hears about a talk. “They talk of the prophecy from the scriptures. They all think the baby was born here last night.”

Back home, his wife is having a difficult birth. Simon prays to God to look over his wife.

The story continues with Simon witnessing Jesus’ revolutionary teachings. He struggles with understanding others’ deep need for devotion to God.

The first 20% of the story is engaging, but with the birth of his son, Simon not wanting to leave the house – pretty much the same scene is being described twice. And that’s when I started disconnecting from the story.

Then Simon’s argument with another man what is true and what may not be true, is beginning of his struggle of understanding others’ need for devotion. There is nothing wrong with questioning to understand something better, but the way it’s presented it made me being even more disconnected from the story. Even though, it later has a connection with his son’s experience and his believes. I still didn’t find it engaging.

12 years later, he takes his firstborn on his travels, teaching his son “everything he’d learned, shared everything he’d seen in decades of travel.” It’s perfectly fine to skip 12 years, but then I wished the story of Simon’s experience and passing it to his son was better developed.

In one paragraph, his son Alexander is already a married man. In the next paragraph, he turns 30. I like progressing stories, but this one progresses way too fast at some points, rushing through some interesting parts.

Also, the characters could be better developed, have more depth rather than getting into arguments.