The Dark Sun Rises

By: Denise Williamson

Narrated by: Peter Jay Fernandez

Set in 19th century Charleston, South Carolina, The Dark Sun Rises is an inspirational work of historical fiction. With impeccable attention to detail and a strong conviction in God, Williamson leads the listener into the complex world of slavery.

In this novel, Joseph, a manservant of Abram Callcott, begins a journey of faith. One of Abram's passions is teaching the slaves about the Gospel. He is shocked, however, by the realization that Joseph has taught himself to read and write. Joseph's abilities show Abram that he may have misjudged his African slaves, but nothing can prepare either man for what is to come.

Through strong, colorful characters, Williamson examines slavery from various perspectives and explores the growth and change in the antebellum south. With a moving narration by Peter Jay Fernandez, The Dark Sun Rises will remind listeners of an era that defined and changed America.

©1998 Denise Williamson (P)2003 Recorded Books, LLC

Perspective

The story was very informative about the cruelty of slavery and made evident that even slaveholders who saw themselves as kind Christians were in reality committing heinous acts against human beings. It could not be justified. I wish the author could have made it more clear that slavery could not be justified. Also, I wished she had shown there were beautiful African women. Instead she portrayed beautiful as white or mixed women.

Excellent Storyline

If you could sum up The Dark Sun Rises in three words, what would they be?

Struggle, Persistence, Forgiveness

What other book might you compare The Dark Sun Rises to and why?

Mandingo, because of the misunderstanding of considering black people as chattle instead of human beings.

Have you listened to any of Peter Jay Fernandez’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No, but I will.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

When Abram realized Joseph could read, learn and administer medical help.

Any additional comments?

This is a great listen. The picture the author painted, plays like a movie in my mind's eye!

A sad but beautiful story.

Would you consider the audio edition of The Dark Sun Rises to be better than the print version?

Yes it was a movie in my head. Will listen to it again. So thought provoking. Makes you really stop and think about what it really was like in that era......puts you face to face with truth and blatant facts.

What other book might you compare The Dark Sun Rises to and why?

The Red Tent
Was also very detailed, filled with history mixed with story telling as how it may have been woven together.

What does Peter Jay Fernandez bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

His voice is very dimensional, depth, lightness and drama.

Who was the most memorable character of The Dark Sun Rises and why?

Each of the main characters were amazing and stood on their own. Such different
personalities, feelings, outlooks, and very believable.

Any additional comments?

I loved this book. So thought provoking, and reached in my heart and mind, to tell me
of what others have gone through. Don't miss this one. It is stunning.

OMG, a must read/listen

I couldn't stop listen to this audio book. I will advise to listen to all. This one would make a great, aspiring movie.

Wonderfully thought provoking

My favorite book excellently narrated. I felt everything that happened to Joseph. This book made me want to read the bible.

Historical Fiction

I liked the story line of conflicting ideas of two generations, especially the specific struggle of a son’s attempt to come to terms with his father’s philosophy related to dealing with people of color. The narrator did a nice job delineating characters and articulating southern accents. I would be interested in reading more books by this author.

Whiny and unrealistic

I haven't finished the book and I'm not sure I'll be able to but I wanted to capture my initial observations. Though the narrator is a good reader, as reading goes, he's not a very good narrator. The voices don't fit the characters, I know that's subjective, but it's hard to distinguish the characters. And his 'Southern Belle' accent is way off. It takes away from the listening experience. And he does this pause after every period, it makes for choppy stiff dialogue.

I do like the question the book attempts to answer or raise...Christains justifying owning slaves, in the name of saving them. I think th he writing lacks real depth, but it is a hard subject to write about honestly. JMHO!

Brilliant story and narration

A very difficult yet important story that should be read by all. The narration was brilliant also.

Loved it!

I couldn't stop listening and wondering what would happen with Joseph and Brandt. Great story!!