Who Was David? by Matt Koceich

Who Was David? continues the Kingdom Files series by Matt Koceich. Written by an elementary school teacher, the entire series is targeted for kids ages 8 to 12. Grayscale pictures are present throughout the chapters (David looks really young when he fights Goliath).

The first portion of Who Was David? is the “Fact File” – two pages that provide basic information about the character such as name, occupation, approximate time of life, etc.

The “Action File” is the longest section and retells the story of David, a brave youth who became king of Israel. The text aligns with the Biblical narrative, but does not include everything. The majority of this section was concentrated on David's ascent to the throne. His battle with Goliath is mentioned as are the situations by which he married his first two wives. Absalom's troublemaking occupies a few pages, but David's affair with Bathsheba is not mentioned, only that she was Solomon's mother.

The last chapter of the “Action File” focuses on brief explanation and instruction of a handful of David's Psalms. The chapter is best experienced with a Bible open to the Psalms to read each chapter and then the corresponding paragraph in Who Was David?

The “Power File” offers ten short devotions based off the story and accompanied by a Bible verse. These are appropriate for both genders and suited to the targeted age range. On the surface, these seem like simple thoughts, but they are based on deep truths that can uphold one's faith in God.

In conclusion, Who Was David? by Matt Koceich teaches the story of David as it entertains and instructs.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Who Was Esther (Kingdom Files) by Matt Koceich

Who Was Esther? is a new installment in the Kingdom Files series by Matt Koceich. Written by an elementary school teacher, this series is targeted for kids ages 8 to 12. My six year old took an immediate interest in the book and pictures. Though she reads well, because of the length of this book, it is one for us to read together. Older children will be able to easily read the narrative by themselves. There are grayscale pictures throughout.

The book is divided into three parts with the first part being the “Fact File.” This is very basic information about the character such as name, occupation, approximate time of life, etc. In this book, the “Fact File” spans two pages.

The “Action File” is the longest section and retells the Biblical story of Esther, a Jewish orphan who became Queen of Persia and saved her people from annihilation. This section also features “clues” to aid the reader's investigation into discovering the life of the character and thinking more deeply on the text. The text aligns with the Biblical narrative, but it doesn't dip into the sexual aspects of the book. No mentions of harems and concubines. However, I didn't like that Esther being taken to the king was compared with people being saved by Jesus and brought into the Father's house (page 22).

The “Power File” is the last section and my personal favorite part of the book. This portion features ten small devotions based off the story with a correlating Bible verse. I found these to be positive, empowering, appropriate for both genders, and suited to the targeted age range.

In conclusion, Who Was Esther? by Matt Koceich entertains and encourages children as it teaches the story of Esther and provides life applications.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Isaiah's Daughter by Mesu Andrews

Ishma, a name meaning desolation, proves sadly appropriate for a five-year-old, traumatized orphan. With only herself and her friend, Yaira, Ishma arrives in the prophet Isaiah's home so deeply wounded that she has lost her words. It is there she meets the young prince Hezekiah, whose own wounds have paralyzed his mind and body. Almost immediately, Prince Hezekiah and Ishma bond on a deep level. In each other, they find restoration and confidence. As they grow older, they challenge each other, play together, and fall in love. However, Ishma's status as an orphan makes her an unsuitable match for Hezekiah until Isaiah adopts her and renames her Hephzibah, meaning delight of the Lord. But the friendship is only the beginning of a lifelong relationship that will be challenged by war, disease, and infertility. As Zibah's future unfolds, she struggles between the prophetic meanings of her names: desolate and delight of the Lord. Will she be able to trust in the One who holds life, death, kings, nations, and her own heart? Read more in Isaiah's Daughter: A Novel of Prophets and Kings by Mesu Andrews.

I started reading the Biblical book of Isaiah about the same time I started reading Isaiah's Daughter by Mesu Andrews. As far as I can tell, Isaiah's Daughter is well-researched and lines up with the Scripture. Both books contain times of great beauty and dark desolation. Throughout Isaiah's Daughter, the author addresses prophecy versus opinion. Characters grapple with discerning the line where prophetic truth ends and opinion begins. They struggled, they prayed, they questioned, even doubted. Just as we do in our lives today.

Likewise, I found a beautiful parallel for the lives we desire to live today in Hezekiah and Zibiah's relationship. The reader observes Hezekiah and Ishma/Zibah grow from wounded children into full-grown adults dealing with the issues of ruling a kingdom. Their relationship is based on solid friendship and respect. Therefore, when romantic love grows, it is infused with loyalty, devotion, and mutual admiration. Through the hard times they remain true to each other, and true to Yahweh.

Isaiah's Daughter is the fourth book I've read by Mesu Andrews and it is my favorite. I recommend this back to all fans Christian fiction. It is a beautiful, moving read that will not only entertain, but draw the reader closer to God.

Read an excerpt from Isaiah's Daughter by Mesu Andrews on the publisher's website.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Land of Silence by Tessa Afshar

One tragic afternoon, Elianna's brother dies while in her care, His death is only the beginning of her sorrows. Seeking redemption from her guilt, Elianna applies her talent in her father's linen manufacturing business which brings momentary success that eventually dissipates. Knowing her failures, she breaks off her betrothal to Ethan Ben Ezer, a good man and the love of her life. A bleeding illness soon strikes that depletes her body and financial resources. With no other hope, Elianna travels to see a new Jewish prophet, expecting tricks and cunning, but finds a teacher who speaks deep words to her heart. After years of suffering and illness, will she find healing for her body and soul? Read more in Land of Silence by Tessa Afshar.

Land of Silence is my favorite novel by Tessa Afshar to date. Like Elianna, Tessa Afshar weaves her craft adeptly. Blending together Biblical events, tragedy, healing, romance and spiritual truths, Land of Silence, enlivens the story of the unclean, nameless woman with a bleeding disease who is mentioned in the gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke.

There was nothing I disliked about the novel and much that I enjoyed. Having a less popular Biblical figure (compared to Mary or Esther) as the protagonist certainly elevated this book's appeal to me. Tragedy and healing gave Elianna's record depth and authenticity while humor kept it from feeling depressing. By not glossing over the hardships that Elianna endured, a deeply moving story flowed with strength and spiritual truths I found applicable to my life. Example: “Despair is an invitation to prayer. You can either sink or pray when it lodges at your door.” (Page 329)

I know Land of Silence is a fictional retelling. However, after reading this book, I will never look at the Biblical account of the woman with the issue of blood the same way. I recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction. Land of Silence is a stand-alone novel, but in several ways it reminded me of Tessa Afshar's Harvest of Rubies. If you liked one, you'll probably like the other.

Read an excerpt from Land of Silence on the publisher's website.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Esther: Royal Beauty by Angela Hunt

The Biblical tale of Esther recounts the life of a Jewish maiden as she rises from obscurity to queen of Persia. Taken from her home by the edict for beautiful women to be gathered for the king to choose his new queen from, Esther finds favor with those around her while retaining the secret of her heritage. After Esther is crowned queen, a law is issued to exterminate all Jews. To save her people, Esther must risk her life by violating Persian law in order to convince the king to save her people.

I almost passed over Esther: Royal Beauty by Angela Hunt. Some time ago, I'd read another version of Esther's story and disliked the romanticism and idealism. However, the stunning cover stands as an example of how a cover can positively affect a book's appeal and convinced me to try it.

Ultimately, I was glad that I choose to read Esther, the first in Angela Hunt's Dangerous Beauty series. I didn't get too much idealism and the plot was well-written. I liked the perspective changes between Esther (Hadassah) and the king's attendant as it added depth and, at times, suspense to the story line. The plot captured my interest early on and didn't drag – I finished the book in two days.

The ending seemed a bit rushed. The author spent substantial time throughout the book adding in fictional, but appropriate, details that made for a good work of fiction. However, the finale recounted the Biblical ending without much fictional addition. This isn't necessarily bad, but it just felt different from the rest of the book. I still will reread the book in the future and recommend it to people who enjoy Biblical retellings.

An excerpt from Esther by Angela Hunt is available at the publisher's site.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

In the Field of Grace by Tessa Afshar

Disregarded by her birth family, Ruth's desire to belong is satisfied in her marriage to Mahlon, a kind man whose mother, Naomi, treats Ruth as her own daughter. When Mahlon and his brother die, Ruth and Naomi journey to Bethlehem, Naomi's former homeland. Desperate for food and income, Ruth gleans, picking up the pieces left behind by the field reapers employed by Boaz. As the camaraderie between Ruth and Boaz transforms into romantic inklings, both are convinced that they can never be together. Will love find a way? Read more in Tessa Afshar's In the Field of Grace.

In the Field of Grace by Tessa Afshar is a Biblical retelling of the Book of Ruth. The author used plenty of literary license to add story details and character motives, but also inserted quotes from the Book of Ruth. Throughout the story, various characters are taught spiritual lessons which became the themes of the book. At times, I felt like characters learned certain lessons too easily. Without enough internal struggle or tension, the development seemed a bit inauthentic. Still, themes such as surrendering what one wants most into God's care and accepting God's will with joy even when circumstances are hard are primary messages in the book that will resonate with Christian readers. I enjoyed the storyline and interspersed humor. In the Field of Grace is a keeper that I'm likely to re-read.

Those who liked Pearl in the Sand by Tessa Afshar will enjoy In the Field of Grace as there are substantial similarities in characters and plot. I recommend In the Field of Grace to Christian readers looking for a historical romance combined with prevalent spiritual themes.

Read an excerpt for In the Field of Grace on Tessa Afshar's website.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

In the Shadow of Jezebel by Mesu Andrews

Raised to fulfill her future roles as high priestess to Baal Melkart and a queen of destiny, Princess Jehosheba learned early to use manipulation, cruelty and fear to gain power and impress Queen Athalia, her father's wife. An invitation from Jezebel, the Queen Mother of Israel, and a letter from the dead prophet, Elijah, begin a whirlwind of events as Jehosheba learns deep family secrets and reluctantly marries Yahweh's high priest. As Jehosheba learns more of Yahweh, she loses faith in Baal Melkart.  Under a death sentence should she fail to carry out the plans of the queens of destiny, will Jehosheba overcome her fear and fully trust Yahweh for life, love and a safe future?

I was very impressed by In the Shadow of Jezebel, the first book I've read by Mesu Andrews. From the beginning, the story had my attention and, in spite of one scene that I think had a lapse in tone, my interest in the characters and their stories, never waned. One thing I particularly enjoyed was the story's setting. I haven't read a lot of fictional stories set in this period and the use of unfamiliar words such as “Ima” and “Gevirah” intrigued me. Andrews expertly weaved Biblical events with fictional elements. This book actually made me want to go back and read the correlating Biblical accounts. I can not say enough good things about this book and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys Biblical fiction.

Read an excerpt from In the Shadow of Jezebel by Mesu Andrews on the publisher's website.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Woman of Means by Thom Lemmons

Physical exercise is at first a hobby and then a reprieve for Lydia as she grows older. Her will to run reflects the tenacious heart inside her that longs for something more. Leaving her family behind is difficult for Lydia, but hope for the future propels her on. It is that abiding hope and tenacious spirit that will lead her to God.

The reader of this story has a unique perspective as the narrative starts at the end of Lydia's life and the reader learns about Lydia's past as her life is concluding. The book seems to be Biblically accurate. Though Lydia is mentioned in the Bible and a few facts are given about her, the majority of her life story remains obscure. That's where the fiction portion comes in.

Unfortunately, for some reason, I found this book to be depressing. I am not sure if it is because Lydia is literally dying from the beginning of the book until the end or if it is something else. Though the plot of the book moved a little slow for my liking, the conclusion was pretty good. I did enjoy the very unique character of Xerxes. However, because of the depressing nature of the book, I have to recommend renting this book from the library before buying.

Pearl In The Sand by Tessa Afshar

Rahab was forced into prostitution at the age of 15 to save her family. She deplores her trade, but manages to achieve financial independence and opens an inn for travelers and the occasional client. When Jericho's destruction seems imminent, she hides two Israelite spies and obtains a promise that she and her family will be spared from death. Rahab's choice to join the nation of Israel was easy to make, but hard to hold to. She faces rejection and Salmone, the man helping her family integrate into Israel, downright terrifies her. She knows what he sees – a prostitute, impure, unlovable woman. What she does not know is that miracles happen. Miracles of love, healing and reconciliation.

The story of Rahab has never been more romantic or powerful than it was while reading this book. I waited several days after reading the book to write this review. I just wanted to sit on it and think. I also went to the books of Joshua and Matthew in the Bible to read the times that Rahab was mentioned. I'm happy to say that the basis of the book seems to be right in line with Scripture. Of course, some of it is fictional. The Bible tells nothing of how Rahab and Salmone met and fell in love. However, the fictional parts were told in such a way that it was believable. The plot was well-written and filled with romance – a wonderful combination.

Pearl in the Sand is definitely a keeper. I highly recommend it and I have no doubt that I will read it again.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Moody Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."