Ezekah wrote:
 If one were to read the GT on its own, which includes their so-called old testament, I don't think any contradictions or fabrications would be evident. Within their own book, everything is consistent.
It is not consistent even on plain reading.   There are two conflicting genealogies for Joseph (for example).   Just take a look at R' Singer's "Crucifixion Chart"?  chart for the discrepancies in the tale of Jesus' supposed death and resurrection.  John says Jesus was crucified the day BEFORE Passover (14th of Nisan), but the other three "gospels" say it was the 15th of Nisan (Passover).  Matthew, Mark and Luke say Simon of Cyrene carried the cross while John says it was Jesus.  Matthew says Jesus drank wine mixed with gall.  Mark says it was wine mixed with myrrh.  Luke and John say it was vinegar, not wine.   And on and on it goes.
Ezekah wrote:
Even if it's not internally consistent on the plain reading, then I'm sure their authorities provide interpretations to make it work.
Bingo.
Ezekah wrote:
most people don't belong to a religion based on reading that religion's holy book.
And Bingo again!

Most people never question what they are taught.   They just "believe" and they are told not to question it too much or they don't have enough "faith."    There are many Christians who may not believe all the fairy tales, but they love their families and they love the community in their church so they just go along with the rest.   It does amaze me how many of them (even on this forum) prefer "magical thinking" over logic.   Just read the recent exchange about Jesus and the virgin birth in the Do you despise me because I am a Christian? by Rabbi Tovia Singer  thread.  It is a perfect example of magical thinking over what the Jewish bible actually says!

סופי

And everything that Sarah tells you, listen to her voice. Bereshit (Genesis) 21:12