In this epic Biblical narrative, ideal for fans of The Bible miniseries, a young woman taken into the prophet Isaiah’s household rises to capture the heart of the future king. Isaiah adopts Ishma, giving her a new name–Zibah, delight of the Lord–thereby ensuring her royal pedigree. Ishma came to the prophet’s home, devastated after watching her family destroyed and living as a captive. But … as a captive. But as the years pass, Zibah’s lively spirit wins Prince Hezekiah’s favor, a boy determined to rebuild the kingdom his father has nearly destroyed. But loving this man will awake in her all the fears and pain of her past and she must turn to the only One who can give life, calm her fears, and deliver a nation.
“Andrews (The Pharaoh’s Daughter) offers her unique brand of in-depth Bible knowledge and storytelling flair … [she] is gifted at bringing the past to life…“ —Publishers Weekly (starred review)
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Isaiah’s Daughter is historical fiction at its finest. Mesu Andrews does a marvelous job of telling the story of a young woman who first is depicted as a captive orphan who is adopted by a prophet, and ends up the queen of Judah, the beloved wife of King Hezekiah. Taking Biblical history and fleshing out the story, the author brings readers a thoroughly captivating read. With descriptive prose that makes the reader feel like you are right there in the scenes and realistic dialogue, the author expertly portrays the struggles and emotions of the characters and brings clarification of some of the convoluted political alliances and oppositions of this time period. The development of the characters throughout the story is strong, especially Ishma, with a name meaning desolation, to Hephzibah, a woman who is the delight of the Lord. I enjoyed the portrayal of the prophet Isaiah throughout the story, not just seeing him as a man who was faithful to God’s voice but as a husband and father as well. With the portrayal of warfare, danger, and corrupt schemes, this is not a light read but it is a story that portrays the faithfulness of God as His people follow His commands. The author leaves a strong message with her readers. People will fail us. Armies can’t always save us but Yahweh is faithful forever. God is faithful.
I received a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.