The Rising by Jerry B. Jenkins, Tim Lahaye (2005, Hardcover)

We learn about Nicolae's mother, Marilena (who's name means bitter), and her strong desire to bear a child. She attends spiritual meetings and is courted by Satan to bear a child for the cause. She is also visited by God who urges her to turn from evil. She chooses to have the child believing that her love for the child will be returned. A spiritualist, Viv helps her to raise him and appears to bond closer to him than his mother. We get insights into Nicholae's childhood and his early development of manipulation of children. We also get to see Steele's background including childhood and his great desire to become a pilot. We see his college years, a sorta fiancé, and his desire to own things. Nicholae mimics many of Jesus' trials. Marileana finally discovers some of the truths about this child too late. She pleas for God's forgiveness, is she too late?. The book ends with Irene being introduced to a Bible believing church.