A VOICE IN THE WIND
“The city was silently bloating in the hot sun, rotting like the thousands of bodies that lay where they had fallen in street battles.” With this opening sentence, A Voice in the Wind transports readers back to Jerusalem during the first Jewish-Roman War, some seventy years after the death of Christ. Following the prides and passions of a group of Jews, Romans and Barbarians living at the time of the siege, the narrative is centered on an ill-fated romance between a steadfast slave girl, Hadassah, and Marcus, the brother of her owner and a handsome aristocrat. After surviving the massacre of her family and the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans, Hadassah is captured and sold to a well-to-do merchant’s family. Brought to Rome, she is pressed into service as a personal slave to hedonistic Julia Valerian. Hadassah struggles to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and to treat her masters in a manner in keeping with His teachings, but she is forced to keep her religious identity a secret in order to survive. Confused and alone, she has only her faith to cling to as she tries to subtly bring God into the lives of her captors. Reckless, impulsive, and villainous, Julia tries to undermine Hadassah at every turn. But Julia’s brother, Marcus, is a different sort altogether. Is it possible for a love between Hadassah and Marcus to flourish considering not only their differing stations in life, but also the gap between Hadassah’s unrelenting faith and Marcus’ lack of belief in anything? Simultaneously, Atretes, a captured soldier from Germania, is forced to become a gladiator. This is the time of Rome's decline and the decadence of a civilization on the verge of self-destruction serves as a powerful backdrop to the Barbarian’s struggle for survival in the arena
58 Comments to "A VOICE IN THE WIND"
Hadassah is such a good example of how to live a life of faith and following God's commands no matter how hard it seems. The clearly shows how actions, really are powerful,even without much words. It helped change the way I live my Christian life. Francine, you are such a blessing!
While I was reading this trilogy I felt like my brain was making connections of then and now. It brought a new dimention to my understanding the bible. It would make an amazing movie.
It has everything in it suspense, romance, activity its great.
Thank you for this story, which has encouraged me to the point of overwhelming tears numerous times. I relate to Hadassah more than any character in any novel I have read thus far, even above Ruth and Esther, which have been my favorites up until now. I have a new-found respect for the early Christians, and look forward to meeting those who gave their lives for Jesus.
If you ever are approached about making this story into a movie, I gladly offer my talents as a classical orchestral composer and song writer. I have a Doctorate in Music and teach at Fullerton College in CA.
Your story has inspired me to be more of a humble servant-hearted modest Christian woman in a culture where modesty is not upheld and humility is not valued - thank you!
Praise be to God for using your gifts as a writer to encourage and uplift us, and to reach others.
Love in Jesus,
Michelle Coletta
Dear Francine,
This series you have written was recommended to me by my grandmother, who shares many books with me that have been inspirational to her. She and I have both been immeasurably moved by this story and its characters - you do a beautiful job of bringing them to life for the reader and capturing the struggle and the strength of Hadassah in particular. The Lord does speak through you - He has given you a rare talent to weave this story and to place these characters in our hearts, to share their lessons with us. Thank you for sharing your gift and the Lord's word with us!
I wrote to you of your newest book and mentioned "Leota's Garden, but DID NOT speak of the first Christian Fiction book I ever read (I was not one intersted in fiction), which was Voice in the Wind. Actually, I read book 2 first and felt as if a door of understanding was opened to what life was actually like in the days of early Christians. I can't forget the eye opening of the possibility of doctors learning about "life" by keeping a tortured body alive long enough to learn of it's functions. I recommend that series to people time and again. Wonderful, eye opening reading. Bette Towsley
Dear Francine,
How can I possibly express in words the effect Mark of the Lion trilogy left on my heart and soul. I lived along with the amazing characters through every chapter, praying for the story to never end. Putting together proper words of feeling is not one of my strengths, such as those of my beautiful granddaughter above,however the one sentence that is most profound to me is: The Lord speaks through you and has blessed you with this inspiring talent for all of us to experience.
I have now moved on to a Lineage of Grace, given to me by a dear friend for my birthday on April 16. However in back of my mind I fully intend to reread The Mark of the Lion.
Thank you for all you have inspired with your wonderful stories and look forward to perhaps viewing this incredible trilogy on screen.
i am excited about voice in the wind. i hope there are copies of francine's books in the philippines. i hope you could help me how to buy her books and where. thanks a lot.
i am lorelyn lambonao from the philippines. i really love her books. it stirrs me and helps me live my christian life seriously.
When will this trilogy be turned into a film or tv mini seried. I am not a novel reader but could not put this book down. Excellent and challenging story that will change lives. Praise God for this amazing presentation of the gospel.
I DONT LIKE HOW THIS BOOK ENDS. MARCUS SHOULD HAVE MARRIED HER AND THEY SHOULD HAVE LIVED A HAPPY LIFE TOGETHER. IT WAS SOOO SAD AND I AM MAD NOW. I THINK IF SHE STAYED ALIVE,THE OTHER 2 BOOKS WOULD HAVE BEEN BETTER. BUT,I HAVENT FINISHED THE SECOND YET. HE BEETER FALL IN LOVE AGAIN. PS,HE SHOULDNT HAVE U KNOW WHAT TO HER. THX
This was by far one of the best books I have ever read. The drama, the love, and most of all the moral. It was uplifting, sentimental, and I couldn't put them down. Thank you for this beautiful trilogy.
Brilliant!!!! And agree with a comment above, it would make a excellent movie!!
Does anyone have chapter by chapter discussion questions for this book? We are reading it for our summer study and I don't want to have to re-invent the wheel.
If so, please send to hammel@eaglecom.net
Thank you.
Nancy Hammel
Francine! Wow!! I just want you to know that I am 47 yr old man who first found "A Voice in the Wind", while I was in jail doing 4 months for doing something stupid like writing bad checks, for drugs and alcohol. This book brought me to Gods word face to face and I had to check myself for the first time in the way I was living my life and now I chose God.I pray that he would use me in whatever situation I am in for the betterment of His kingdom. I have sense read the Lion series and have enjoyed them to my hearts desire. I recommend this series to anyone who question the path their life is taking.
Christ is king
Ben Guard
This entire series is phenomenal! It's impossible for me to describe how these books (and all of Francine's books) are so entertaining, yet life changing at the same time. They draw your heart nearer to God and challenge you to live with eternity in mind. Francine Rivers has been a huge blessing to me and my family. God is definitely using her in big ways!
Have you read An Echo in the Darkness? It's the next book in the series. I think you'll like it.
Dont worry ull love the books
I hope you all have read Redeeming love.. if not dont wait another minute.. run out to get it or get it at half.com and her new book HER MOTHERS HOPE, AMAZING. cant wait for the next in the series... Her daughters dream! HURRY UP!!!
This is the most amazing book I have ever read. It was loaned to me on the suggestion that it would be like no other. It is so much more than a story with characters. It is an example, a torch, and a lesson. It is filled with you and me, our friends and family and most importantly, our Father. God Bless you and yours and the message you've shared!
Francine - this is my first time I've been on your website! & What can I say that hasn't already been said!?!
I'm currently reading "A voice in the Wind", and WOW - what an example of humility & perserverance! I'm currently going through struggles at the moment, this book is both encouraging & uplifting, and I Thank God for giving you the talent to reach believers/non-believers.
God bless you Francine, and may he continue to use you to do his work!!!
Rose (from New Zealand)
Wow what an awesome inspirational script wasnt this. I wasnt able to put this book down since i first read it. One of my friends read the book before me and told me I am like haddasah to her. It really encouraged me to start reading the book. After I read this book as well as Echo in the Darkness it inspired me to become even more like Hadassah and have stronger faith. I really think you should do a movie on all 3 of these books in the series. Ever since I've read the book I have encouraged more and more people to read the series. This really is an awesome, brilliant series, Francine!!!!!! May the Lord work through more people that would be able to reach out to people that doesnt know God. Mrike aged 14
Dear Francine,
I really loved the Mark of the Lion Trilogy, especially A Voice in the Wind. Its end brought tears to my eyes and a lump in my throat. I wish I were like Hadassah.
Thank you for your books, they're a pleasure to read. Redeeming Love was also pretty impacting. I cried bucketfuls of tears while reading it.
I don't agree with the movie-making idea, it would have to be very well made to live up to the expectations, and that's hard. At any rate, it could never be better than the book.
God bless you and your family
Anna-Maria Galcerán Fries
(Barcelona, Spain)
I was told about Francine Rivers book about 5 yrs ago but didn't read any of her works till one day in the bookstore I decided to purchase 'Redeeming Love'. OMG! It was so wonderful and inspiring that I sought out more of Ms Rivers works. Next came, 'A Voice in the Wind', talk about a gamit of emotions I felt while reading that book from awe for Hadassah's courage to stand in the midst of being a 1st century Christian in Rome, rage and anger for the lack of thought for human lives when picturing the complete and utter devestation of Jeruselem and her people, through pain, hope, joy, longing, to revenge, (I could have smacked that devil Callabah's face on several occasins!) to complete disbelief (talk about an ending to a story!!) I was screaming along with Marcus when I put this book down. I immediately read it again, 4 times in a row. Needless to say I have recommended all Francine Rivers books to anyone that will listen. I bought the 'Voice in the Wind' book, then book 2 then book 3 seperately, then purchased the 'Mark of the Lion', 3 volume gift set, and also purchased the latest volumes with new covers. (Each time I purchase a set I reread the triology). Extra copies are great because now I don't mind lending out a set because I have my own copies that I will not lend to anyone. (I have done the same for Redeeming Love, also). I agree with the above comment the entire Mark of the Loin trilogy and Redeeming Love should be made into full length feature films, (Mr Landon, TBN are you listening).
I have just finished reading all three books. I was touched by all three stories! Incredible story. I love how all the characters tie together! This story would make an AWESOME movie!! I can't wait to read more books by Francine Rivers!!!
the trilogy was so captivating and will eventually catapault you back to God
I love this trilogy!!! I too would love to see the stories in movies!!! Your books have changed my life & given me greater understaning of God's word. Thank you!!
Absolutely love this series as well as the rest of your books!! Thank you for the wonderful portrayals of the love, grace, and mercy of our Savior!
God bless you and your family!
Jessica
All your books have blessed me! I read A voice in the wind twice and I could do it again and again; I read an Echo in the darkness too, and can´t wait for As sure as Dawn! I speak spanish so is a little difficult writting this comment, soorry!
I hope can read all your books they are really a blessing. God bless you!
Francine, You are an amazing writer. Thank you so much for writing this series. I am not a book reader, but I could not put this book down. I loved the courage and love for the Lord that Hadassah had... It puts me to shame. I WISH that there was more... maybe involving the next generation (Hadassah and Atretes, ect) The history details were also very much appreciated!!! Thank you, Bethany - Portland, Oregon
Several years ago, I read all of your books I could get my hands on after a friend suggested one of your titles. Seeing these comments motivates me to read the Mark of the Lion trilogy again. I have never been so influenced by a novel or character as I was by Hadassah. This trilogy, as well as Redeeming Love, are hands down the most fascinating novels I have ever read. Somehow, the words on those pages urged me to seek God more earnestly. I agree with one of the other comments above - I felt shame at the pettiness of my worries and the weakness of my faith in comparison to Hadassah. My emotional response to the novels was so strong that I have never let go of those two women in my mind. I think of them often. Not only did these novels impact me very personally, but also increased my understanding of this period in history enormously. I could then go to the Bible, read a related passage & it had all new meaning. Truly, I thank you for your valuable work and the way God is using your incredible talent for His good and perfect purpose.
dear francine,
'v read practically all ur books & it has been awsome... I must have started with reedeming love cos after crying my eyes out i gave it to my friend to read....
Then i got to read voice in the wind... God! It was touching, inspiring, even heart breaking.....& den i cried & cried cos of hadassah's amazing & undenying love 4 God, her humbleness & much more.
I
i read reedeming love & i cried, then i read voice in the wind & was in tears.....i hav read the trio. & i find it completely worthy.
it's amazing how u cld hit d nail on d head...hadassah reminds me of d life of a believer being constantly faced wit challenges concernin our faith....
Thank you francine.... Tola from Nigeria
I just have to tell you I have read your "Voice in the wind" trilogy 13+ times.
The change in my life and yearning in my soul is phenominal.
Thanks ever so much
THIS BOOK CHANGE VERY THINGS IN MY THOUGHTS!THANK YOU Francines!
This is absolutely my favorite work. I cannot recommend this series highly enough. The characters truly come alive as you read. The plot and symbolism are carefully crafted. I could not put this down.
I frequently travel and have this series on cassette tape. Unfortunately, my new car does not have a tape deck. Will they be available in CD or on MP3 in the future?
Francine, I have been reading you for years. It started with Voice in the Wind and an Echo in The Darkness. I Loved them. I just recently read Redeeming Love. I love your work! Continue to be blessed and be a force for God.!
A voice in the wind is an overwhelming story. It has givn me an insight to God's word. Hadassah's life has changed the way i look at most things. I wish everyone will read the book. May God bless u with more wisdom for more books. Please send more of ur books to Nigeria.
PLEASE MAKE THIS A MOVIE!!!!
I am Hadassah personified! I relate entirely to the stories in the "Mark of the Lion" triology and bless the work of your hand as you teach and shed more light to our daily walk in Christ Jesus.
As a struggling Christian teenager, Hadassah is my one true fictional hero. Her faith inspires me every time I "talk" to her. I only wish that she were a real person, because then I would know that someday I would be able to meet her and actually talk to her when I come Home.
I just finished reading A Voice In The Wind. I'm sorry I didn't read it sooner. The message of complete and unmoving passion, love and commitment to God in the midst of an ungodly and narcissistic culture is so relevant for us today. Although it was emotionally and physically difficult for Hadassah to remain loyal to her unseen God, it was not impossible. The Word of the Lord was a two-edged sword within her that cut through the intense cultural pull to survive at all costs and feed the hunger of the soul. My prayer is that I would seek to learn God's word and seal it within my inmost being so that it may resonate in my heart at life's most difficult and wonderful times. Thank you, Francine, for your gift of story telling. I've read several of your books and each one has ministered to me.
God bless you Francine. I am reading A VOICE IN THE Wind for the second time and it's even more captivating and inspiring...... I love your books cos they inspire me to live out my faith...............Thank you, OMA WALI-Port Harcourt,Rivers State, Nigeria
Finish the 2nd book before you judge the ending of the 1st!
I've read the trilogy thrice now and I still plan on reading it again. the story line is perfect and has encouraged ma relationship with God. Francine, you do great work.
Iveren
Some friends from church introduced me to your books and A Voice in the Wind was the first book I read of yours! Now I'm devouring Echo in the Darkness with the 3rd one on the nightstand just waiting for me! Love your writing!
This series moved me beyond words. The love of God shining from these characters moved me to tears. I've never cried from reading books before. Thank you Francine, for making characters come to life with a love for God that I want to emulate.
Chantal
If you have read the second book then you would have seen that Marcus DOES marry Hadassah!
Just finished Redeeming Love in record time. It was so awesome!!! I am more keenly aware how much JESUS goes out of HIS way to reach us in our fallen state, and and how he never relents until we surrender! For any who has a sordid past, whether by your fault or others, HE truly aches at your pain ......and desires to bring healing waters. I see myself and my husband in Michael Hosea and Angel, and so much of my 'stand offish' while at the same time 'clinging to my husband like crazy' earlier days of our marriage make sense now. Highly recommend this book. And by the way, highly recommend getting to know the Lover of Your Soul. His name is JESUS!!!
"The Lord will perfect that which concerns me...." Ps 138:8
You were reading my mind about having
TBN doing a drama series like HBO's Rome epic. It could bring non-believers into watching it and then have them watching other TBN's programs. I've always told myself (IF) I ever won the lottery I would buy the rights to these series and bring it on the television.
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Just finished the first book in the series...I am touched by Hadassah's commitment to serve her masters...and with love, kindnesss & compassion...The next time I need to serve my family in a way that is difficult, uncomfortable or puts me out, I just know the Holy Spirit will remind me of Hadassah's unconditional love...
Thankyou Francine for unfolding these characters that we might have a greater understanding of the truth.
Natalie, West Australia
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