Guardians of Eden is an epic adventure set not in a galaxy far far away or in an imaginary place but in the context of biblical history. The events of the book are set in the world after the fall but before the flood. It is the time of one of the more mysterious groups in the biblical narrative, the Nephilim, making for an interesting premise for a fantasy novel.
One of the main differences between this and other fantasy novels is its Christian worldview. This is a story where the big problem that the world faces is not the evil Nephilim but sin itself.
While the historical background of the Genesis account is clearly seen in the story, there is a strong mythical vein running through it which helps to retain the fantasy feel. Those looking for unicorns, talking to animals and evil sorcery in their fantasy novel will not be disappointed.
The story is also good at raising some of the big questions of life and faith. Why is there evil in the world? Where is God when I need him? How can I trust God? While the book does not answer them in a systematic way, it is good to have them raised and to see how the author addresses them in the context of the story’s Christian perspective. The subtitle of the book " A quest for the ultimate treasure " Eternal life " raises the bigger question of our future. The story takes the gospel promise of Genesis 3:15 (And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.) and traces a path towards its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus. It is not an evangelistic tract, but that is not its place as a novel. It is a book that raises questions and gives some answers. It has an epic feel, yet the heart of the problem remains not the villains of the story but sin itself.
This book has its limitations as a Christian resource since it is a work of fiction but I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading fantasy novels or tales of epic adventure. It would certainly be a good novel for young Christians to read. For those who are not Christians, it might also raise some of the big questions of life and faith. Overall, a good light read.
