In The Shadow Of Jezebel by Mesu Andrews

• Paperback: 416 pages
• Publisher: Revell (March 4, 2014)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0800721705
• ISBN-13: 978-0800721701

This book is also available as an e book.

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Princess Jehosheba wants nothing more than to please the harsh and demanding Queen Athaliah, daughter of the notorious Queen Jezebel. Her work as a priestess in the temple of Baal seems to do the trick. But when a mysterious letter from the dead prophet Elijah predicts doom for the royal household, Jehosheba realizes that the dark arts she practices reach beyond the realm of earthly governments. To further Athaliah and Jezebel's strategies, she is forced to marry Yahweh's high priest and enters the unfamiliar world of Yahweh's temple. Can her new husband show her the truth and love she craves? And can Jehosheba overcome her fear and save the family--and the nation--she loves?

With deft skill, Mesu Andrews brings Old Testament passages to life, revealing a fascinating story of the power of unconditional love.

My take on this book:

In The Shadow of Jezebel there were several characters that really touched me but I think the one that really stood out had to be Jehosheba also known as Sheba. She grew up in conditions that were less than ideal, with a mother figure that was anything but kind. Sheba was such a complex character and we learn this right along with her husband Jehoida. Speaking of him, he really wasn't the typical suitor, he was older than Sheba, and was a bit set in his ways. I really enjoyed watching their story unfold. I found the worship of Baal to be quite fascinating, because I have been reading quite a bit about it lately in my Bible studies. As I read this story it was obvious that Mesu Andrews certainly did plenty of research, and the way that she opens each chapter with scripture verse really makes it easy to turn to the Bible and read the "true" story.

I have become a huge fan of Biblical fiction because the characters really come to life. Sure it's fiction but it certainly makes me understand better not only the time period, but also the author also allows me to better understand what the characters might have been feeling, but the best thing about this genre is that it always makes me go back and read the original story in the Bible and normally has me paying attention to the finer details. Mesu Andrews unique telling brings the Bible to life, providing rich historical fiction that weaves together fact and fiction to make for a compelling story.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review.