The End of the Magi
A Novel
by Patrick W. Carr
Pub Date 05 Nov 2019
Bethany House |Bethany House Publishers
Christian


Bethany House and Netgalley have provided me with a copy of The End of the Magi for review:


Daniel creates a select group of men to count down the days until Israel's promised king arrives on the scene. Years later, as the day approaches, Myrad, an acolyte of the magi, flees for his life when his adoptive father and others are executed by the ruthless Parthian queen.


With only a few possessions, Myrad escapes the city. In an attempt to hide from the soldiers scouring the trade routes, he joins the caravan of the merchant Walagash. Myrad is suspected of hiding secrets by the merchant, but when he proves to be a valuable traveler, he embarks on an epic journey filled with peril, close escapes, and dangerous battles.


We are getting closer to the coming Messiah with every passing day. A star that Myrad can't forget and a promise that the world will never be the same shines over everything.


I give The End of the Magi five out of five stars!


Happy Reading!

I absolutely loved this book! I was riveted from the beginning and ended up reading it till 1am three nights in a row! I found the pacing brilliant and I highlighted so many quotes I want to remember. I also loved the characters. I related to so many of them on different levels and find myself thinking about them at random moments of the day and thinking how they would respond to situations I find myself in. But above all, I loved the big picture view of prophecy this book gave me and how it strengthened my faith in Yeshua our Messiah. I generally only buy paperbacks of books I will want to read and reread and especially ones I want to loan out. I will be purchasing this book asap! Highly recommend and desperately hope this author has more Biblical fiction coming soon!

The End of the Magi was the perfect book to read during the Christmas holiday. It really connected me to the Biblical story of Jesus’ birth and the gifts and visitation that the Magi brought to his birth.
I’ve never thought about the back story or the history behind how the Magi traveled to find Jesus. This story brought a lot of imagination and wonder back to the Bible. I loved it and would absolutely recommend this book to anyone. I was given a free copy in exchange for my review.

The End of the Magi begins its story in Babylon in 537 BC when the prophet Daniel has a vision about the arrival of God’s Anointed One. He selects a group of men – the magi -- to count down the days and years until God fulfills His promise. Centuries pass until the promised day is finally in sight.

A young apprentice magi – Myrad -- flees the city when his adoptive father, a magi, and others are ruthlessly slain by a new queen in Parthia. He joins a merchant’s caravan and begins a long journey where he escapes near death, faces dangerous battles, and more. Myrad meets up with other magi who are also following the special star in the night sky. Will it lead him to the answers he seeks? Is it the fulfilment of the prophecy he learned from his adoptive father?

Although different from Carr’s fantasy novels, The End of the Magi is well-written and interesting to read. Characters are well-developed and historical details appear to be authentic.

Carr writes a biblical fiction story based on th magi, chosen risen to track the days on the calendar, to witness God’s fulfillment of the prophecy, and more. It’s more than a Christmas story, for it traces the journey of one young man, born with a club foot, not of the Hebrew nation, who is used by God in ways he never expected. Myrad’s journey illustrated how God can use anyone to further His plan, whether or not they are capable in the eyes of the world.

I loved that this book was so different from the other ones that I have read by Patrick Carr! Or, was it? While not a fantasy based one, there is still an epic quest with un-surmountable challenges. I highly recommend this one!

This book was very interesting! Taking a few different historical facts and spinning a "what if" tale is always a fine line to walk - but when done right, creates some of the most enjoyable books I've read.

In "Magi", Mr. Carr pulls the reader in with his trademark rich prose and sweeping narratives, and spins a story that I have continued to think and talk to others about, ever since I closed the final page. That's the great part of 'historical fiction' type works - taking a subject from impersonal arms-length, and giving you a pair of shoes, even if imaginary ones, in which to walk around and become a part of the story.

The character of Myrad, his travels through the towns and deserts, the events brewing around the region all around him - these pieces were artfully designed, combining into the greater whole of what is seriously a fantastic work. 

I would highly recommend this book, especially with Easter right around the corner, as it is a perfect read to whet your appetite to dig deeper into the the Scriptures about Christ and his life.

I received a review copy of this work from the publisher

Susan F's review
Dec 23, 2019 · edit


it was amazing






This is a story that not only made me think it has me reaching for my Bible. I find it fascinating to think about what it could have been like for the three wise men who traveled to find the Messiah while following a star. Even the way the author presents the star is something to make me think. I have a whole new outlook on these men who were an important part of God's plan. I
I was fortunate to be able to read this book during the days just before Christmas. I was also meeting the challenge of reading the New Testament book of Luke, one chapter a day which created a whole other feeling for the Nativity and life of Christ.
Anyone who enjoys a fiction story based on a specific person or event in the Bible should enjoy this offering. It is quite an experience to read this. It is well two shows the hard times of life during this major event in Biblical history. I loved this story and the possibilities of introduces. The characters are interesting and believable. I particularly love that a person who was less than perfect physically could and does get chosen by God to do specific things. Very thought provoking book. I recommend it.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for my copy of this book. I want to thank the author for picking up on possibilities after discovering something in Scripture that sparked his creative talent.

Myrad, raised in the streets with a club foot, is adopted into a magi’s home. He is taught the skills the magi have preserved for centuries. His adventures take him through the desert, escaping for his life. His intelligence and cunning prove invaluable, and he manages to outwit his pursuers and secure a place for himself in a wealthy merchant’s family. As he meets up with other magi, he is persuaded to begin a new quest—the search for the Messiah.

Even though I have read many other Biblical fiction novels, this one exposed me to elements of life during that time period that I was unaware of. The author has evidently done his research and sets the story in a somewhat turbulent political climate.

The main character, Myrad, was intriguing. I was amazed by his shrewdness and ability to survive whatever life threw his way. Because he was an underdog, I found him endearing. Personally, I had hopes for a different ending for Myrad’s story, so I was a little disappointed. But overall, I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to those who relish a good adventure story. I received a free copy of this from the publisher for this, my honest review.

I have never read a book from the perspective of the magic before. I started reading this book in a book club group on Goodreads. Patrick W. Care does not disappoint. I will be reading more of his work.
The book starts with Daniel in Babylon 537 BC. He created a group of the people called the Magic who count down the days until the Messiah would be born.

Thank you to Publisher and NetGalley for the eARC

I have never read a book from the perspective of the magi before. I am so glad that this is the one that I read. This was an amazing story that really brought Christmas to life. It has great characters who feel real and react in normal ways. This book has so much action that it never felt boring. I could not put it down!

I received a copy via Netgalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

So powerful!

I was in tears in the first chapter, and totally invested.

I would love to read a book with That Daniel. I've enjoyed other Daniel stories, but I believe this one is the most convicting.

That said, I connected with Myrad, and his journey became mine. I was not a passive observer.

You find yourself In the story. Desperately trying to prove yourself worthy despite your defects. Do the right thing regardless of other people's opinions. Figure out who you can trust.

And follow the star and the prophecy.

Myrad is so very human. It is amazing how well he exemplifies the good qualities, and the weaknesses we can all relate to, 2000 years later.

As I said, I cried during the first chapter, and I had goosebumps / chills for the last hour of the book. (plenty of emotions in between, too). And I've started in on a second reading already. That almost Never happens.

I would recommend this book as an excellent Christmas story, but an equally amazing Easter read.

I received a copy of this book from @netgalley, and chose to review it here. all thoughts are my own.

The story of the three wise men is familiar to Christians. They are briefly mentioned in the New Testament. This story explores who and what the wise men could have been.

The book begins with Daniel in Babylon 537 BC. He creates a group of people called the Magi who count down the days until the Messiah would be born. The Magi over the years become corrupted with the political power that they have been given. Tragedy strikes the Magi and Myrad escaped with the calendar and other political documents. He was hunted and took measures to make sure his task was successful. Myrad had a disability, he was born with a clubbed foot that made him easily recognizable and slowed down his flight from Persia.

This book is fascinating. The thought of "what if" and "what could have happened" during the time period propelled me to keep reading. I loved following Myrad on the trade routes through the desert. He faced life-threatening situations and was sustained by his God and belief.

This book is perfect for this season. But it is so much more. It is an adventure. It is about faith and prophetic dreams. It is about a young man learning and growing. It also has quite a bit of the time periods of culture.

Patrick Carr is known for his fantasy writing so seeing that he was delving into the biblical fiction arena I decided to give it a go.

I have had a love hate relationship with the Magi since it was brought to my attention that the Magi were not there when Christ was born. With that said I enjoyed how Mr. Carr put a unique spin on the Magi. So many what if's that leave the reader not questioning God but wondering about all the details that God put together to fulfill the prophecy of the Magi finding Christ.

This book has solid research and will be one enjoyed by all ages!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The End of the Magi brings to life an unfamiliar aspect of the familiar Christmas story – in such a way that you’ll never view the magi or their gifts the same way.

I confess that the magi are usually sort of an afterthought for me as I reflect on Advent & the Nativity. But in Carr’s new historical fiction, the magi become men with hearts and souls and dreams. Particularly dreams. The author’s imagining of what could have happened in the magi’s journey feels rooted in solid research, giving it plausibility and imploring the history geek in me to learn more about what transpires over the course of Myrad’s determination to follow the star & find the King.

Myrad is a wonderful protagonist, the perfect one for this story. He is authentically flawed but stronger than he thinks he is, yet – at first glance with his weak form & club foot – he seems the least likely to do great things. But, isn’t that just like God? “It’s almost as if God takes delight in accomplishing His end in the most unlikely way possible…”

Bottom Line: The End of the Magi is captivating and soul-stirring. While it gets a bit long in the middle, you still won’t be able to put it down because you are fully engaged with the characters. A fascinating creative look at men who only get a few sentences to their name in Scripture yet undoubtedly endured a long journey to find the King. Love the dual meaning of the title as well (hint: I quoted one meaning above.) Not your average Christmas read – and that’s a good thing!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

Myrad is the adopted son of a Hebrew magi in ancient Persia. After having a dream of a star in the sky that didn't move throughout the night, Myrad is brought into the order of the magi, just in time for a massacre. Barely escaping, Myrad now must outrun his pursuers while also attempting to discover the meaning of his dreams about the star and the prophecy of the Hebrews Messiah that his father taught him about.

With Christmas looming, I loved the idea of reading a book about the advent of Christ from the perspective of the magi that visited Him not long after his birth. This book really hit the spot, easing me into the season. With great characters and some fun relationships, following the star with Myrad was an adventure that highlighted some important Biblical truths.

Myrad himself is a decent protagonist, young and inexperienced, learning everything around him along with us. He has a clubfoot, which gets in his way quite often. Walagash is now one of my favorite characters ever. And the relationships between Myrad and Walagash, Roshan, and Aban are enjoyable to watch develop along the way.

One of the main reasons for 4 stars, instead of 5, is that there was a lot of politics in the book, which is the main thing that caused the story to drag in parts. It does make sense, given the state of the empires in that region at the time. But it wasn't terribly interesting to read the characters discussing it.

(Warning: the following paragraph contains spoilers.) What I loved most about the book, though, was that it went past the birth of Christ to the real root of Christianity--His death and resurrection. We see the rift form between those Hebrews who believe that Jesus is the Messiah and those who don't, because he didn't conquer the Romans like they thought he should (or because he died and they left before his resurrection). And when the magi who stayed in Jerusalem even after the resurrection because they felt there was more for them there got exactly what they were looking for, they left changed.

For me in particular, the book really drove home the importance of trusting that God's way is the best way, even when we can't see what He's doing. It's a reminder that He can and does use anyone He chooses for his plans, even those people who think that they are worthless--even those people who don't follow Him. We can only do our part and accept His will in our lives, and in this, we can have peace in stressful times. This has been really important for me lately.

While this book could easily be pigeon-holed as a Christmas book, it is so much more than that. I recommend it for all fans of Biblical fiction. In truth, I think it should be read by anyone who enjoys historical fiction or quest-driven stories, because the message contained within is important and should be heard by everyone.

I am a huge fan of Patrick Carr’s writing, so of course I was waiting on pins and needles for his newest book. The End of the Magi represents a shift from the genre of fantasy to the realm of historical and I think that Carr did an excellent job of navigating that shift.

The characters were extremely engaging and complex, which I have come to expect from Carr’s writing. I also appreciated how human the Magi were, especially in their varying expectations of the Promised One. The historical setting was fascinating and descriptive. In many ways I felt like I was living Myrad’s story, which I think is the ultimate goal of a novel.

I will say that the pace of the novel is slow and thoughtful. This isn’t a galloping suspense novel as much as it is a suspenseful journey of mystery and waiting: waiting for the fulfillment of an ancient prophecy and waiting to discover what that meant for the individual lives of the characters. It’s a perfect read for the season of Advent or honestly for the season of Lent as well, since Carr takes the story of the Magi beyond the birth to the final days of the Long Awaited One.

Overall, I’d say the book was unexpected. I’ve read a number of Magi stories and this one was like no other and yet it was also entirely relatable, perhaps even more so than other tales that have been told. And while I have to say my preference for Carr’s fantasy novels remains, I was impressed by this journey into historical fiction and I would recommend it to you.

I received a free digital copy of this book for review (after I had already ordered a paperback copy) so I’m giving you my honest opinion as a fan who purchased a book and as a reviewer. This book is worth reading.

Review:

When the King's favor turns against his Magi, killing Myrad's father, it unleashes a chain of events that send Myrad on a journey that will leave him forever changed.

A step in a slightly different direction for author, Patrick Carr, who I am familiar with as an epic fantasy writer, in The End of the Magi, he delves into the time before Christ was born, showing the political tensions and unrest of a world in need of a Saviour.

Myrad is a newly appointed Magi, who has been dreaming of a luminous star that calls to him. After his father's death he finds himself at a loss, not knowing who to trust or where to turn, with the wrath of the Queen's soldiers after him. On the journey he faces attacks, betrayal, and also finds friends that become like family. Myrad shows a keen mind with a wisdom beyond his years, I admired his devotion to his mission, and determination to not let physical obstacles get in his way, as well as his honesty about his weaknesses.

Overall a well written high stakes journey, that imagines what it might have been like to follow the star, risking it all in a explosive political atmosphere, for the promise of the King. A story of courage, faith, and hope, just in time for Christmas. Multiple colorful characters, well researched, and daring. Great for fans of Biblical fiction and of Mr. Carr's worldbuilding skills!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Myriad has listened to the teachings of Isaiah and Daniel for as long as he can remember. He is an apprentice to the Magi. His adopted father has taught him a lot. But his father and other Magus were struck down by a wicked king.
Myriad is on the run, as much as he can having been born with a club foot.
He finds shelter in the company of a merchant and his traveling household.
Myriad has had dream since his youth. He has dreamed of the birth of the Messiah. He can see the bright star. It seems like only the Magus have been given this gift. No, not everyone sees the star.
Through many travels, dangers and adventures Myrad has finally been to see the baby. He is in awe of the child.
Years later he discovers that he has not learned all of the prophecies. His father was killed before he could be taught. He can feel in his heart that something phenomenal is to happen.
This is a wonderfully written account about the life of the Magus.
Definitely worth reading!

The End of the Magi is the story of the wise men as you have never heard it before. Political upheaval, a perilous journey, and a prophecy that is as confusing as it is promising form the barest outline of what you will encounter in these pages as Myrad makes his way to Jerusalem among a caravan of merchants, magi, and soldiers. Surprisingly (at least, to me), the story does not end with the visit to the Christ-child, but skips forward thirty years to the week leading up to the crucifixion, as Myrad and the remaining magi watch the fulfilment of all that has been prophesied about the Messiah.

For readers who enjoy a rollicking good adventure, this book will tick a lot of boxes. Also, readers who are interested to know how the prophecies concerning the Messiah were interpreted (and argued over) prior to their fulfilment, the conclusion of the story will be of particular interest. Personally, I felt the one thing that could have made the story more engaging for me was a stronger character arc for Myrad. I’m a very character-centric reader, and while Myrad was well written, the challenges he faced throughout this novel were largely external, leaving him much the same character at the end of the novel as he had been at the beginning.

For readers who aren’t as character focused, however, and interested in Biblical fiction or adventure-based historical fiction, this would be an ideal Christmas read. And while it’s not written specifically for a young-adult audience, I can see this appealing to male young-adult readers in particular.

When we hear the word "Magi," typically thoughts of Christmas and the three kings come to mind or O.Henry's famous story "The Gift of the Magi." We don't often think about how the individuals who were part of the group of people called "Magi" actually played a significant role and were important to their culture. When Patrick Carr's newest book The End of the Magi popped up on my reading list, I immediately jumped to the connection with Christmas but as I read the book, I discovered it was so much more.
Patrick Carr delves into the story of the Magi, and one apprentice specifically, well before the birth of Christ. This allows Carr to provide a very detailed account of the Magi, their role in society, and how they came to follow the star. Granted, The End of the Magi is fiction, but Carr has invested time in research as well. The story follow apprentice Magi Myrad from his initial dream regarding a star to the time when the star stops and he finds what he has sought. However, The End of the Magi does not end there. Carr picks up the story of the Magi again 30 years later and interjects them into the events of Holy Week as well. This part of the story brings the Magi full circle and provides insight into Carr's choice of title as well.

The End of the Magi is a great book to read around Christmas given who the main characters are and their final destination. However, it is a book that could be enjoyed at any time of the year given Carr's excellent writing and research. I found that Carr's story emphasizes that most people of this time period, including the Magi, expected the Messiah to overthrow Rome. This reminder is important. While not necessarily a book for children, The End of the Magi is appropriate for high school and up and perhaps to be read aloud to junior high. As such, it might fit the age group that has outgrown Arnold Ytriede's excellent Advent books but are still looking for a Christmas read-aloud.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received The End of the Magi via NetGalley. 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.