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Lost Loves of the Bible #3
Reign: The Chronicles Of Queen Jezebel
Beyond the Drama, Her Heart Was Real
From the moment her marriage to prince Ahab thrusts her into the intrigues of palace life, Jezebel’s exotic beauty opens doors and her will breaks down walls. Torn from her homeland and wed to power in a strange country, Jezebel vows to create a legacy and power all her own. Some might call her a manipulative schemer, bent on having her way. But they don’t know the whole story, and she was much, much worse. As she moves through the halls of power, her heart struggles between devotion to the gods she worships, the prince who loves her, and her thirst for revenge. She sparks a battle between her strangely powerless gods and the God of palace administrator Obadiah—a God who confronts her with surprising might. She will fight, though victory may cost her everything.
From the moment her marriage to prince Ahab thrusts her into the intrigues of palace life, Jezebel’s exotic beauty opens doors and her will breaks down walls. Torn from her homeland and wed to power in a strange country, Jezebel vows to create a legacy and power all her own. Some might call her a manipulative schemer, bent on having her way. But they don’t know the whole story, and she was much, much worse. As she moves through the halls of power, her heart struggles between devotion to the gods she worships, the prince who loves her, and her thirst for revenge. She sparks a battle between her strangely powerless gods and the God of palace administrator Obadiah—a God who confronts her with surprising might. She will fight, though victory may cost her everything.
320 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2013
23 people are currently reading
1148 people want to read
About the author
Ginger Garrett
37 books187 followersGinger Garrett is the author of the middle grade titles Name Tags and Other Sixth Grade Disasters (Carolrhoda Press) and The Last Monster (Delacorte Press/Random House) as well as other titles for women.
A frequent media guest and television host, Ginger has been interviewed by Fox News, 104.7 The Fish Atlanta, and many other outlets. Ginger resides in Georgia with her husband, three children and her 27th rescue dog, Watson.
A frequent media guest and television host, Ginger has been interviewed by Fox News, 104.7 The Fish Atlanta, and many other outlets. Ginger resides in Georgia with her husband, three children and her 27th rescue dog, Watson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
July 27, 2022
I have finished this series now I'm sad. Nice little read and a new view point on what I always thought was a horrible woman. Now doubt she is still is a horrible person but with an outlook as to what snapped her into this woman.
May 4, 2013
Reign was nothing I expected and I was very disappointed that I could not get into this book as much as I wanted too!
I had been looking forward to this book as soon as I heard about it, but sadly I was unable to finish it. I am unsure how much of Jezebel's story was historically accurate, but it was too dark and morbid for me. I understand that the Phoenician culture did sacrifice infants, but it was too much for me when Jezebel tried to kill her own child because she hated it so much. Once I got to that part it did me in and I will not finish it. I know that women do abort their children, but I do not want to read a novel of a women who hated her body so much and the human growing in her that she would do almost anything to destroy it.
The story overall was interesting based on what I had read, but again it was too dark and morbid for me to keep reading with the infant sacrificing. I know there was this kind of sacrificing during this time, but it overwhelmed me and left me too depressed about it for me to read the second half of the book.
Some people might truly enjoy the story line and will not be effected by the description of infant sacrificing and temple worshipping through sexual means, but unfortunately I did not.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I had been looking forward to this book as soon as I heard about it, but sadly I was unable to finish it. I am unsure how much of Jezebel's story was historically accurate, but it was too dark and morbid for me. I understand that the Phoenician culture did sacrifice infants, but it was too much for me when Jezebel tried to kill her own child because she hated it so much. Once I got to that part it did me in and I will not finish it. I know that women do abort their children, but I do not want to read a novel of a women who hated her body so much and the human growing in her that she would do almost anything to destroy it.
The story overall was interesting based on what I had read, but again it was too dark and morbid for me to keep reading with the infant sacrificing. I know there was this kind of sacrificing during this time, but it overwhelmed me and left me too depressed about it for me to read the second half of the book.
Some people might truly enjoy the story line and will not be effected by the description of infant sacrificing and temple worshipping through sexual means, but unfortunately I did not.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2013
God reigns, not Jezebel.
Reign, the Chronicles of Jezebel is an excellent story of the Biblical times during the reign of King Ahab and his queen, Jezebel.
Jezebel was the daughter of Eth-Baal and she came from the city of Phoenicia, a city that offered pleasure but no joy, a city of death. They worshipped their gods by sacrificing children. Jezebel was married to Ahab who became king of Samaria, the northern kingdom of Israel.
Ahab wanted to please his bride. Jezebel influenced him and she thought she could conquer his god as well.
Obadiah’s voice rose as he tried to explain one more time. “Israel is not like other nations.
You cannot replace her religion, because she doesn’t have one. She has the Lord. Do you
understand the difference? There is a living presence in Israel.”
Ginger Garret is a great story teller, painting pictures with words that release emotions. From the beginning you are repulsed by the deeds done by idolatry. Despite knowing the history of Israel, you hope that along the way Jezebel would realize the difference between life and death, love and hate. When Ahab shifts towards repentance, you cheer, but is he strong enough to resist Jezebel?
Jezebel wants a face-to-face confrontation with the God of Israel. Her opportunity comes when Elijah challenges Jezebel’s gods after years of drought. Is she pleased? No. Why not?
I recommend Reign, the Chronicles of Jezebel. You cannot read this book without realizing there is only one God, and He is God of grace and mercy.
David C. Cook, as part of their media review bloggers program provided this book to me for free in exchange for this honest review.
Reign, the Chronicles of Jezebel is an excellent story of the Biblical times during the reign of King Ahab and his queen, Jezebel.
Jezebel was the daughter of Eth-Baal and she came from the city of Phoenicia, a city that offered pleasure but no joy, a city of death. They worshipped their gods by sacrificing children. Jezebel was married to Ahab who became king of Samaria, the northern kingdom of Israel.
Ahab wanted to please his bride. Jezebel influenced him and she thought she could conquer his god as well.
Obadiah’s voice rose as he tried to explain one more time. “Israel is not like other nations.
You cannot replace her religion, because she doesn’t have one. She has the Lord. Do you
understand the difference? There is a living presence in Israel.”
Ginger Garret is a great story teller, painting pictures with words that release emotions. From the beginning you are repulsed by the deeds done by idolatry. Despite knowing the history of Israel, you hope that along the way Jezebel would realize the difference between life and death, love and hate. When Ahab shifts towards repentance, you cheer, but is he strong enough to resist Jezebel?
Jezebel wants a face-to-face confrontation with the God of Israel. Her opportunity comes when Elijah challenges Jezebel’s gods after years of drought. Is she pleased? No. Why not?
I recommend Reign, the Chronicles of Jezebel. You cannot read this book without realizing there is only one God, and He is God of grace and mercy.
David C. Cook, as part of their media review bloggers program provided this book to me for free in exchange for this honest review.
June 15, 2020
Plot: Jezebel is a cunning, stunning and evil princess who is a idol worshipper and follower of child sacrifice…will she change when she married the Yahweh worshipping Prince Ahab of Israel? Or will she forever be a villain who wreaks havoc in his kingdom and life? Will she be moved by the prophets elijah and Obadiah?
Rating: 4.5 stars
Recommend: for readers ages 17+
Reading interest level: totally shocking and absorbing
Thoughts: I learned what NOT to be as a woman, therefore, it was a exhorting book……
Warning: somewhat disturbing details about sexual abuse, child sacrifice, concubines, and instigating a miscarriage.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Recommend: for readers ages 17+
Reading interest level: totally shocking and absorbing
Thoughts: I learned what NOT to be as a woman, therefore, it was a exhorting book……
Warning: somewhat disturbing details about sexual abuse, child sacrifice, concubines, and instigating a miscarriage.
June 3, 2013
I’m so happy to be telling y’all…I enjoyed this one more than Desired! I read them basically right in a row, so they’re both fresh in my mind. Now this? Is the story…of Jezebel. Let me guess…you’ve never read a story about Jezebel. Me either, until this one! It’s amazing – you fully understand, as you read, just how wicked Jezebel is/was – you abhor her, practically hate her for what she’d doing. Yet at the same time, you understand her, and you pity her. She’s such a sad person…your heart goes out to her. Who knew that one could feel such loathing and compassion for one character at the same time! I don’t think I’ve experienced that before.
It was also very interesting to get to know the prophet Elijah. There are also part of the story told from Ahab and Obadiah’s view-points (not in first person, thankfully). While Obadiah isn’t in the Biblical story itself, I believe that the Obadiah in this book is supposed to be the one who has a Bible book named after him. There were one or two times when the book wasn’t quite accurate to some of the Biblical details – always disappointing. Overall though, it did a good job of representing the truth. There are a few things (though not as many as in Desired) that make me say only for older readers.
All in all? It was good, and I’m keeping this book! Oh, and the reason it got a (high)? There were some a.m.a.z.i.n.g.l.y. great descriptive passages in here – great word pictures. Really enjoyed that.
**The Book Club Network Inc. and the author sent me this book for my honest review. I have done my best to honestly portray my thoughts concerning this book. I wasn’t reimbursed for this review, or required to post positively.**
It was also very interesting to get to know the prophet Elijah. There are also part of the story told from Ahab and Obadiah’s view-points (not in first person, thankfully). While Obadiah isn’t in the Biblical story itself, I believe that the Obadiah in this book is supposed to be the one who has a Bible book named after him. There were one or two times when the book wasn’t quite accurate to some of the Biblical details – always disappointing. Overall though, it did a good job of representing the truth. There are a few things (though not as many as in Desired) that make me say only for older readers.
All in all? It was good, and I’m keeping this book! Oh, and the reason it got a (high)? There were some a.m.a.z.i.n.g.l.y. great descriptive passages in here – great word pictures. Really enjoyed that.
**The Book Club Network Inc. and the author sent me this book for my honest review. I have done my best to honestly portray my thoughts concerning this book. I wasn’t reimbursed for this review, or required to post positively.**
June 10, 2013
I do like Christian historical fiction, but did pick this up with some 'doubts' in my mind. In 'humanizing' Jezebel would the author justify her actions? Well, no.
In the Bible, Jezebel, is the epitome of evil. In this book, she is given flesh, made more 'human' , we are given a picture of a woman of many dimensions and whatever the possible reasons for her actions, the evil of her actions is not in dispute.
It is easy for us to say, "I would never do that"..but I think the disturbing thing about this book is 'under these circumstances, with the same background and mindset, would I really be above her actions?". Am I? Are there areas in my life that I am intentionally blind?
You do come to see her as Obadiah the servant, one cannot hate her 'for she lived without knowledge of Him. It was a poverty so unimaginable, so heartrending, that Obadiah could not hate'.
And Ahab, so close to the truth, but so easily pulled away. He is a truly tragic figure. I too wished he 'loved the stories more'.
So, overall a good book...gave me a chance to challenge my own walk. And I like that.
In the Bible, Jezebel, is the epitome of evil. In this book, she is given flesh, made more 'human' , we are given a picture of a woman of many dimensions and whatever the possible reasons for her actions, the evil of her actions is not in dispute.
It is easy for us to say, "I would never do that"..but I think the disturbing thing about this book is 'under these circumstances, with the same background and mindset, would I really be above her actions?". Am I? Are there areas in my life that I am intentionally blind?
You do come to see her as Obadiah the servant, one cannot hate her 'for she lived without knowledge of Him. It was a poverty so unimaginable, so heartrending, that Obadiah could not hate'.
And Ahab, so close to the truth, but so easily pulled away. He is a truly tragic figure. I too wished he 'loved the stories more'.
So, overall a good book...gave me a chance to challenge my own walk. And I like that.
May 20, 2013
REIGN: The Chronicles of Jezebel by Ginger Garrett This is the first book I have read by Ginger and my first time reading from the historical genre. I enjoyed the read, and would often pull out and check with the Bible to see if in fact what was stated was actually happening. It was a great read, and kept me going from beginning to end. I have heard many stories of Jezebel but this one showed just how deep the evil ran, but also made me realize more about the upbringing. I for one am guilty of not always seeing what others have lived, because although my life was not always easy, I always had a praying mom to come home too. That made a difference.
I would highly recommend this book for a fast paced excellent read while learning a little more of the times in which this Bible story takes place.
I can't wait to move on to the next book in this series.
Thank you to bookfun.org for giving me this book to read in exchange for an honest review. This book is definitely 5 stars!
I would highly recommend this book for a fast paced excellent read while learning a little more of the times in which this Bible story takes place.
I can't wait to move on to the next book in this series.
Thank you to bookfun.org for giving me this book to read in exchange for an honest review. This book is definitely 5 stars!
June 22, 2013
I found Reign a fascinating story to read. It was a little confronting to walk in Jezebel’s shoes as she became the princess and ultimately queen of Israel with her husband, Ahab. Her despicable and evil acts including idolatry, child sacrifices and killing the Lord’s prophets are covered in the book. We gain an insight into her hatred of the prophet, Elijah, and her unquenchable desire for power.
Ahab is stuck in the middle. He is unable to please his wife and the people who have remained faithful to the Israelite God. He allows Jezebel to encourage the Israelites to worship her foreign gods. Both Ahab and Jezebel suffer the consequences of God’s wrath and judgment.
We are given a fictional perspective on their dysfunctional marriage and family life, and plausible reasons to explain their life choices. I recommend this book to those looking for insightful and challenging Biblical fiction.
Many thanks to NetGalley and David C. Cook for providing a review copy.
Ahab is stuck in the middle. He is unable to please his wife and the people who have remained faithful to the Israelite God. He allows Jezebel to encourage the Israelites to worship her foreign gods. Both Ahab and Jezebel suffer the consequences of God’s wrath and judgment.
We are given a fictional perspective on their dysfunctional marriage and family life, and plausible reasons to explain their life choices. I recommend this book to those looking for insightful and challenging Biblical fiction.
Many thanks to NetGalley and David C. Cook for providing a review copy.
May 30, 2013
I have been reading the Bible since I was a very young girl and Ginger Garrett brings the Bible and its characters to life in Reign in a powerful way. I was enthralled and fascinated by Queen Jezebel's story, even as parts of it horrified and shocked me. The Bible tells the story in basic facts but to hear it in a fictional form with so many details was simply amazing. I felt as if I were there watching all the action.
Queen Jezebel has often been used to teach young women how NOT to behave and I can certainly see why. I also can see what Jezebel was thinking and feeling to cause her to behave as she did. Was she the wounded young girl who did not feel love from anyone so that she had no idea how to give love to others?
I was given a copy of this book from www.bookfun.org (The Book Club Network) in exchange for my honest review.
Queen Jezebel has often been used to teach young women how NOT to behave and I can certainly see why. I also can see what Jezebel was thinking and feeling to cause her to behave as she did. Was she the wounded young girl who did not feel love from anyone so that she had no idea how to give love to others?
I was given a copy of this book from www.bookfun.org (The Book Club Network) in exchange for my honest review.
August 25, 2015
Reign: The Chronicles of Queen Jezebel by Ginger Garrett
Jezebel is a very troubled young woman. She was brought up worshiping other gods, sacrifices of infants, and it's evil, which made an impact on her life and relationships. She was married to a young prince, Prince Ahab, from another country despite her wishes. Thus begins her struggle with her new husband, his country and the God of his people.
Normally I enjoy Biblical fiction, but I had a really hard time reading this book. It was too full of details regarding infant sacrifices, the whole pagan worship and behavior of the worshipers with the priests for me to enjoy it. There was a small part of the book that I did enjoy, but not enough to recommend it to others to read.
“I received this book from www.bookfun.org to read for my honest opinion....”
Jezebel is a very troubled young woman. She was brought up worshiping other gods, sacrifices of infants, and it's evil, which made an impact on her life and relationships. She was married to a young prince, Prince Ahab, from another country despite her wishes. Thus begins her struggle with her new husband, his country and the God of his people.
Normally I enjoy Biblical fiction, but I had a really hard time reading this book. It was too full of details regarding infant sacrifices, the whole pagan worship and behavior of the worshipers with the priests for me to enjoy it. There was a small part of the book that I did enjoy, but not enough to recommend it to others to read.
“I received this book from www.bookfun.org to read for my honest opinion....”
October 18, 2013
I know that I am absolutely in the minority here, but I couldn't force myself to finish this book. The writing was awful. I'm not talking "Oh, man, this is pretty bad, but the story makes up for it" awful. No, I'm talking "This is a lot like listening to a five year old tell you about their day" kind of awful. I'm a big fan of clarity, but this took it too far. I may come back to it when I'm in a more forgiving mood, but for now this book has firmly earned itself a place on my "should probably have been burned with the big T Books" shelf.
March 8, 2017
I only skimmed this book because I found the idolatry overwhelming. And the thought of mass child sacrifice to difficult to really contemplate. I found the after words very fascinating. Apparently Jezebel reigned in Israel for about 60 years and would have died as an old woman. Also scholars believe Psalms 45 may have been written as a wedding poem for Jezebel and Ahab.
January 16, 2015
I read this book on the recommendation of Mesu Andrews in preparation for the release of her new book "In the Shadow of Jezebel". This was a great read. I learned so much about this time in history and it has given me a totally different perspective of the Ahab/Jezebel story.
did-not-finish
September 21, 2014I was going to read this for a challenge, but decided against finishing it. My DNF has nothing to do with the book itself, just that I do not like biblical fiction.
November 7, 2018
I lead a Bible study at my church that combines exploring scripture with a supplementary novel inspired by what we are studying. We call it The Faith And Fiction Bible Study, and it has been a great way to dive into the truth of God’s word in a unique way. I chose Reign by Ginger Garret to accompany our look into the life of Ahab and Jezebel. The study has been eye-opening for me, and Reign made real the cultural influences of the era. While many in my group described it as a hard or unpleasant read because of it’s depiction of the depravity of pagan worship, I appreciate the research that Garrett used to bring one of the most vilified characters in the Bible to life.
Reign depicts the life of Jezebel — her early life in Sidon and subsequent marriage to Ahab. A princess of the Phoenicians, Jezebel and Ahab’s marriage cemented the trade and political fortune of Israel with the seafaring nation. Unfortunately, with the increased economic prospects, Jezebel brought pagan worship to the northern kingdom and made it state-recognized and approved. This was the crux of God’s anger and judgment towards Ahab’s reign. While the framework of the novel rests on facts, the fictional life of Jezebel, the what-ifs, were fascinating. Garrett develops a character who is very much influenced by her past experiences. Pagan worship, though horrific in its implications, was a normal part of Jezebel’s upbringing. That point leads to all kinds of questions of how our own beliefs and experiences impact our actions, even if in opposition to God’s word. There’s not much to like about Jezebel and Ahab — really nothing at all. But the secondary character of Obadiah, mentioned as Ahab’s steward in the Biblical record, provides good insight into how godly people may react when faced with direct opposition to the God they believe in. God’s truth is a big part of Reign and is presented by Elijah, Obadiah and other named and unnamed prophets. Could life for Jezebel been different? I loved the very subtle wooing by God (and the depiction of the counter-action of evil) that she ultimately rejects.
Reign, as I stated above, was not an easy read. But it did provide good insight into a very dark time in Israel’s history. If you like Biblical fiction, give this one a try.
Audience: adults.
Reign depicts the life of Jezebel — her early life in Sidon and subsequent marriage to Ahab. A princess of the Phoenicians, Jezebel and Ahab’s marriage cemented the trade and political fortune of Israel with the seafaring nation. Unfortunately, with the increased economic prospects, Jezebel brought pagan worship to the northern kingdom and made it state-recognized and approved. This was the crux of God’s anger and judgment towards Ahab’s reign. While the framework of the novel rests on facts, the fictional life of Jezebel, the what-ifs, were fascinating. Garrett develops a character who is very much influenced by her past experiences. Pagan worship, though horrific in its implications, was a normal part of Jezebel’s upbringing. That point leads to all kinds of questions of how our own beliefs and experiences impact our actions, even if in opposition to God’s word. There’s not much to like about Jezebel and Ahab — really nothing at all. But the secondary character of Obadiah, mentioned as Ahab’s steward in the Biblical record, provides good insight into how godly people may react when faced with direct opposition to the God they believe in. God’s truth is a big part of Reign and is presented by Elijah, Obadiah and other named and unnamed prophets. Could life for Jezebel been different? I loved the very subtle wooing by God (and the depiction of the counter-action of evil) that she ultimately rejects.
Reign, as I stated above, was not an easy read. But it did provide good insight into a very dark time in Israel’s history. If you like Biblical fiction, give this one a try.
Audience: adults.
October 20, 2019
The story of Jezebel is told from three points of view: King Ahab, Jezebel, and Obadiah, the king's administrator. Each person's thoughts are marked so it is fairly easy to see the transitions. I didn't know very much about Jezebel other than that her name is used for wanton women. Garret speculates that her childhood was difficult with her twin sister being sacrificed to Baal, her mother dying, and her father paying little attention to her. The only thing that seemed to gain her attention was her beauty. When she married to King Ahab against her wishes, she devotes her life to the degradation and sacrifices required by Asherah the Goddess of motherhood and fertility who is worshipped by the pagan women of her culture. But Yahweh is the one true God and Jezebel's life ends tragically.
Well written and interesting, I found this a different look at the life of Jezebel.
Well written and interesting, I found this a different look at the life of Jezebel.
April 9, 2022
Maybe it’s not so good to be the queen
Jezebel, a queen who was never satisfied. A queen who saw her gods fail, yet would never surrender to another. A queen you could almost pity, if she hadn’t repeatedly and knowingly hardened her heart. I found this take to be very interesting. Ginger Garret wrote her as a character you would want to pity due too her circumstances, but yet couldn’t pity due to her choices. She does not seem to be asking us to feel sympathy for Jezebel, but rather to see that she wasn’t a slave to here circumstances as much as she was too her own hate.
Jezebel, a queen who was never satisfied. A queen who saw her gods fail, yet would never surrender to another. A queen you could almost pity, if she hadn’t repeatedly and knowingly hardened her heart. I found this take to be very interesting. Ginger Garret wrote her as a character you would want to pity due too her circumstances, but yet couldn’t pity due to her choices. She does not seem to be asking us to feel sympathy for Jezebel, but rather to see that she wasn’t a slave to here circumstances as much as she was too her own hate.
March 26, 2018
Garrett wrote this first book of The Chronicles of Queen Jezebel five years ago, but I just got to it now.
Troubling, as so many of Garrett's books are as they walk, necessarily, close to the dark side in order to well portray the ugliness going on in Israel at the time. Queen Jezebel was a hair-raising horror, though Garrett gives her a poignant backstory.
I like to read historical Biblical fiction to broaden my understanding of the times. This one helped.
Troubling, as so many of Garrett's books are as they walk, necessarily, close to the dark side in order to well portray the ugliness going on in Israel at the time. Queen Jezebel was a hair-raising horror, though Garrett gives her a poignant backstory.
I like to read historical Biblical fiction to broaden my understanding of the times. This one helped.
September 23, 2020
I finally finished the third book in this series. This one took me by surprise. The previous two had been very dark portrayals. While this one does have its share of portraying the dark aspects of Phoenician worship, it paints a more sympathetic picture of both Ahab and Jezebel. It’s the story of two wounded people living out that woundedness without God, clinging to things that in the end hurt them more. They do what’s right in their own eyes. This is a tale for all of us.
March 16, 2021
This was a good book. I enjoyed reading it...but, it was not as good as the first two books in the series. I know she had to stick to the basic story, stories from the bible work that way. I still felt like something was missing. Perhaps I had expectations that were too high after enjoying the first two books so much!
November 22, 2022
It was ok
May 27, 2013
From the moment her marriage to prince Ahab thrusts her into the intrigues of palace life, Jezebel’s exotic beauty opens doors and her will breaks down walls. Torn from her homeland and wed to power in a strange country, Jezebel vows to create a legacy and power all her own. Some might call her a manipulative schemer, bent on having her way. But they don’t know the whole story, and she was much, much worse. As she moves through the halls of power, her heart struggles between devotion to the gods she worships, the prince who loves her, and her thirst for revenge. She sparks a battle between her strangely powerless gods and the God of palace administrator Obadiah — a God who confronts her with surprising might. She will fight, though victory may cost her everything.
Given to me in ebook format via www.netgalley.com.
Slight downside with this ebook edition in that the text was very small and with no easy and reliable way, whilst reading on a kobo at least, to increase the text size or spacing to anything more comfortable. This made it a slower and more painful to read than I would have liked. It was easier to read on a laptop using ADE's magnifier, but since this is not available on a kobo - and the book not available to upload to an ipad with magnification - it sort of negates the practicality of an ebook. If you have any kind of vision issues, this book *in this current format* is not appropriate for you
As to the story itself:
The focus of the story changes between Jezebel, Obadiah the Chief administrator of Israel, and Ahab the prince of Israel and Jezebel's betrothed.
Jezebel is the unwanted child of a pair of twins born to the high priest of Phoenicia and is brought up knowing that she is unloved by both humans and gods alike. The book starts with her sacrificing her sister - the family favourite - to the gods at the direction of her father.
Ahab is the uncouth son of a mercenary, the latter having fought his way to become King of Israel. 17 years old, Ahab has been a fighter as long as he can remember, and has killed more men than he cares to count. He is to marry Jezebel in order to consolidate the union between Israel and the Phoneticians
Obadiah is the son of a prostitute and a drunk, but is more finely bred than Ahab, better dressed and rather more sensitive.
The differences between Phoenicia and the much younger and poorer Israel are well described - Jezebel has grown up in a much more prosperous country, whether she realises it or not, and is shocked and disappointed when she is sent to a country still at war where all the palaces she lives in are built for defense rather than comfort and affluence.
Other differences soon come to light - Jezebel worships her gods, which means regular child sacrifices to keep them appeased. Obidiah worships Yahweh. Elijah the prophet has warned Ahab not to bring Jezebel to Israel, and when he does, Yahweh condemns Israel to several years of famine. Once Yahweh releases Israel from famine and drought, Ahab - previously ambivalent as to which god to worship - follows Yahweh much to Jezebel's disdain.
Over the next years, Israel becomes stronger under Yahweh and Ahab. Jezebel attempts to consolidate power and a dynasty for her and her sons, but never realises that she could be happy. She becomes more maternal towards her third child than she did to her previous two, and doesn't realise that she loved Ahab in the end.
Whilst I did like the book, I feel that in being such a high level story, it did tend to be a little shallow in parts. I know that Garrett is trying stay within the realms of the narrative presented in the Old Testament (which doesnt allow much leeway for much digression from the story presented to us), but I came away feeling that I could have had just a little bit more....
For those that are not of a religious bent this can be read without fear of being preached at or sermonised to. Those who are seeking a little reassurance within their faith will also be able to take some comfort from this book.
Actually a 3.5 - would have been a 4 except for the formatting issues
Given to me in ebook format via www.netgalley.com.
Slight downside with this ebook edition in that the text was very small and with no easy and reliable way, whilst reading on a kobo at least, to increase the text size or spacing to anything more comfortable. This made it a slower and more painful to read than I would have liked. It was easier to read on a laptop using ADE's magnifier, but since this is not available on a kobo - and the book not available to upload to an ipad with magnification - it sort of negates the practicality of an ebook. If you have any kind of vision issues, this book *in this current format* is not appropriate for you
As to the story itself:
The focus of the story changes between Jezebel, Obadiah the Chief administrator of Israel, and Ahab the prince of Israel and Jezebel's betrothed.
Jezebel is the unwanted child of a pair of twins born to the high priest of Phoenicia and is brought up knowing that she is unloved by both humans and gods alike. The book starts with her sacrificing her sister - the family favourite - to the gods at the direction of her father.
Ahab is the uncouth son of a mercenary, the latter having fought his way to become King of Israel. 17 years old, Ahab has been a fighter as long as he can remember, and has killed more men than he cares to count. He is to marry Jezebel in order to consolidate the union between Israel and the Phoneticians
Obadiah is the son of a prostitute and a drunk, but is more finely bred than Ahab, better dressed and rather more sensitive.
The differences between Phoenicia and the much younger and poorer Israel are well described - Jezebel has grown up in a much more prosperous country, whether she realises it or not, and is shocked and disappointed when she is sent to a country still at war where all the palaces she lives in are built for defense rather than comfort and affluence.
Other differences soon come to light - Jezebel worships her gods, which means regular child sacrifices to keep them appeased. Obidiah worships Yahweh. Elijah the prophet has warned Ahab not to bring Jezebel to Israel, and when he does, Yahweh condemns Israel to several years of famine. Once Yahweh releases Israel from famine and drought, Ahab - previously ambivalent as to which god to worship - follows Yahweh much to Jezebel's disdain.
Over the next years, Israel becomes stronger under Yahweh and Ahab. Jezebel attempts to consolidate power and a dynasty for her and her sons, but never realises that she could be happy. She becomes more maternal towards her third child than she did to her previous two, and doesn't realise that she loved Ahab in the end.
Whilst I did like the book, I feel that in being such a high level story, it did tend to be a little shallow in parts. I know that Garrett is trying stay within the realms of the narrative presented in the Old Testament (which doesnt allow much leeway for much digression from the story presented to us), but I came away feeling that I could have had just a little bit more....
For those that are not of a religious bent this can be read without fear of being preached at or sermonised to. Those who are seeking a little reassurance within their faith will also be able to take some comfort from this book.
Actually a 3.5 - would have been a 4 except for the formatting issues
June 2, 2013
I read this not being previously familiar with Jezebel’s story. All I could recall was that Jezebel = bad. I mean, even her name is a derogatory word these days. So I wasn’t sure which direction this book would take.
I read a couple of reviews before starting because I hadn't realized at first that this was one in a series, and wasn't sure if I'd be able to read it without having first read the previous two. If you're in the same boat, don't worry, this book stands alone. The reviews disheartened me because I am a very empathetic and sensitive person when it comes to violence. But I trudged on. The author wastes no time diving right into the sin, cruelty and perversion. I didn’t think it was as graphic as others thought. Though painful to read, particularly because these things are not just fiction, they happened, it was bearable.
I quickly came to understand Elijah’s sorrow. After his curse, I had a horrible sense of foreboding: This was going to get a whole lot worse. I could see things unraveling. How could Ahab not? How could he not be more affected, more nervous, more driven to set things right? And not just for himself, he was bringing this upon his people as well. I guess it’s in our human nature to want to hope things work out okay even when we’re making destructive decisions. We have the completed Bible, so we know when there’s no hope for a situation. Although, they had prophets, so they knew it too. I guess it just comes down to faith. And as Ahab says, he was born without Hebrew blood, without religion. He even states early on that, “whether or not they are real, the gods are for us,” showing that he had no faith.
This was the low point for me. I knew enough that I knew Jezebel’s story would not end well, and if this was the beginning… well I braced myself for further pain and suffering. It did get better though. I wanted to root for Ahab and of course would wish that Jezebel and her people would turn from evil and know God. But though I could not know that relief, I was able to rejoice for Elijah and the nation of Israel regaining their sanity.
Bottom line, I would recommend this book. I expected to learn a little more about Jezebel and Ahab, and the people of that time, possibly even a little bit about human nature and how their failings are ones that are still relevant to us today. And yes, I did glean all of that, but what I took away from this book was a better understanding of my Father. I got a glimpse of the pain and frustration and rage over the events that took place, but also the mercy and love.
On side note, the only complaint about the writing that I had was that the dates jumped around too casually. I think the author intending it this way to give the passage of time a feel of melting away, but it had the opposite affect on me, as I had to stop every time I noticed and get my bearings and try to figure out where all the characters were and what was going on. And I appreciated the few facts at the end of the book- simply unthinkable!
I read a couple of reviews before starting because I hadn't realized at first that this was one in a series, and wasn't sure if I'd be able to read it without having first read the previous two. If you're in the same boat, don't worry, this book stands alone. The reviews disheartened me because I am a very empathetic and sensitive person when it comes to violence. But I trudged on. The author wastes no time diving right into the sin, cruelty and perversion. I didn’t think it was as graphic as others thought. Though painful to read, particularly because these things are not just fiction, they happened, it was bearable.
I quickly came to understand Elijah’s sorrow. After his curse, I had a horrible sense of foreboding: This was going to get a whole lot worse. I could see things unraveling. How could Ahab not? How could he not be more affected, more nervous, more driven to set things right? And not just for himself, he was bringing this upon his people as well. I guess it’s in our human nature to want to hope things work out okay even when we’re making destructive decisions. We have the completed Bible, so we know when there’s no hope for a situation. Although, they had prophets, so they knew it too. I guess it just comes down to faith. And as Ahab says, he was born without Hebrew blood, without religion. He even states early on that, “whether or not they are real, the gods are for us,” showing that he had no faith.
This was the low point for me. I knew enough that I knew Jezebel’s story would not end well, and if this was the beginning… well I braced myself for further pain and suffering. It did get better though. I wanted to root for Ahab and of course would wish that Jezebel and her people would turn from evil and know God. But though I could not know that relief, I was able to rejoice for Elijah and the nation of Israel regaining their sanity.
Bottom line, I would recommend this book. I expected to learn a little more about Jezebel and Ahab, and the people of that time, possibly even a little bit about human nature and how their failings are ones that are still relevant to us today. And yes, I did glean all of that, but what I took away from this book was a better understanding of my Father. I got a glimpse of the pain and frustration and rage over the events that took place, but also the mercy and love.
On side note, the only complaint about the writing that I had was that the dates jumped around too casually. I think the author intending it this way to give the passage of time a feel of melting away, but it had the opposite affect on me, as I had to stop every time I noticed and get my bearings and try to figure out where all the characters were and what was going on. And I appreciated the few facts at the end of the book- simply unthinkable!
June 18, 2013
About the Book:
Beyond the Drama, Her Heart Was Real
From the moment her marriage to prince Ahab thrusts her into the intrigues of palace life, Jezebel’s exotic beauty opens doors and her will breaks down walls. Torn from her homeland and wed to power in a strange country, Jezebel vows to create a legacy and power all her own. Some might call her a manipulative schemer, bent on having her way. But they don’t know the whole story, and she was much, much worse. As she moves through the halls of power, her heart struggles between devotion to the gods she worships, the prince who loves her, and her thirst for revenge. She sparks a battle between her strangely powerless gods and the God of palace administrator Obadiah—a God who confronts her with surprising might. She will fight, though victory may cost her everything.
About the Author:
Ginger Garrett is the critically acclaimed author of Chosen: The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther, which was recognized as one of the top five novels of 2006 by the ECPA, and Dark Hour. An expert in ancient women's history, Ginger creates novels and nonfiction resources that explore the lives of historical women. A frequent media guest and television host, Ginger has been interviewed by The New York Times, NPR, Billy Graham's The Hour of Decision," The Harvest Show, Fox News, and many other outlets.
In 2007, Ginger was nominated for the Georgia Author of the Year Award for her novel Dark Hour. A graduate of Southern Methodist University with a degree in theater, she is passionate about creating art from history. You can learn more about Ginger and her work by visiting www.gingergarrett.com
My Review:
The story of Jezebel and Ahab may be an interesting one. But the way the author has taken the story from the Bible and expanded on it, really has left some rather frightening images in my mind.
Jezebel was an idol worshiper of the gods- Baal and Asherah. She believed that she was to sacrifice babies to these gods and that all people in the Phoenician Empire do the same. The thought of precious babies being done that way is just indescribable to me. I don't think or cant even imagine having that mind set. Let alone stand by and watch it take place.
I believe her evil ways were just a reflection of something that went terribly wrong in her life or maybe her mind. The book begins with a terrible death in her family and her thoughts and feelings in that. And then we fast forward four years to her impending marriage to Prince Ahab. The descriptive way and grand imagery that the author creates made all the scenes in this novel feel like a movie. It was a very interesting take on such a evil character, but someone who intrigues us even today.
**Disclosure** This book was provided to me free of charge for my honest review from bookfun.org
Beyond the Drama, Her Heart Was Real
From the moment her marriage to prince Ahab thrusts her into the intrigues of palace life, Jezebel’s exotic beauty opens doors and her will breaks down walls. Torn from her homeland and wed to power in a strange country, Jezebel vows to create a legacy and power all her own. Some might call her a manipulative schemer, bent on having her way. But they don’t know the whole story, and she was much, much worse. As she moves through the halls of power, her heart struggles between devotion to the gods she worships, the prince who loves her, and her thirst for revenge. She sparks a battle between her strangely powerless gods and the God of palace administrator Obadiah—a God who confronts her with surprising might. She will fight, though victory may cost her everything.
About the Author:
Ginger Garrett is the critically acclaimed author of Chosen: The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther, which was recognized as one of the top five novels of 2006 by the ECPA, and Dark Hour. An expert in ancient women's history, Ginger creates novels and nonfiction resources that explore the lives of historical women. A frequent media guest and television host, Ginger has been interviewed by The New York Times, NPR, Billy Graham's The Hour of Decision," The Harvest Show, Fox News, and many other outlets.
In 2007, Ginger was nominated for the Georgia Author of the Year Award for her novel Dark Hour. A graduate of Southern Methodist University with a degree in theater, she is passionate about creating art from history. You can learn more about Ginger and her work by visiting www.gingergarrett.com
My Review:
The story of Jezebel and Ahab may be an interesting one. But the way the author has taken the story from the Bible and expanded on it, really has left some rather frightening images in my mind.
Jezebel was an idol worshiper of the gods- Baal and Asherah. She believed that she was to sacrifice babies to these gods and that all people in the Phoenician Empire do the same. The thought of precious babies being done that way is just indescribable to me. I don't think or cant even imagine having that mind set. Let alone stand by and watch it take place.
I believe her evil ways were just a reflection of something that went terribly wrong in her life or maybe her mind. The book begins with a terrible death in her family and her thoughts and feelings in that. And then we fast forward four years to her impending marriage to Prince Ahab. The descriptive way and grand imagery that the author creates made all the scenes in this novel feel like a movie. It was a very interesting take on such a evil character, but someone who intrigues us even today.
**Disclosure** This book was provided to me free of charge for my honest review from bookfun.org
October 30, 2013
Book received via GoodReads FirstReads program for an honest review. Thanks for the book!
Rating is actually 3.5, but rounded down for the reason in paragraph 4.
I did really enjoy the fleshing out of Jezebel's character. She breathed with life, with motivations, causes, and emotions all her own. While I definitely wouldn't want to hang out with her in real life ('dis girl got some serious issues), the author gives us reasons for why she is the way she is through life events and a belief system that is twisted at best. Since this is reason for my signing up for a copy of this book, I'm glad it paid off in a rich and vivid character study of one of the Bible's most hated females.
The time period came alive for me as well. The author made ancient Phoenicia and Israel come to life through the sights, smells, and sounds of the ancient world. The distinct cultures of each nation also were very vividly contrasted, from the colors of everyday life to how the people approach their religions.
I've got to give the author chops for not being afraid to portray the times as they were. It wasn't all dreamy nostalgic reminiscences of a better time. Life was harsh and often short, with famine and nasty religions everywhere. The graphic portrayals of the sacrifices and mass murder scenes threw me a bit, but only in that the world felt more real to me. I actually enjoyed that realism, just make sure you're not eating while reading them.
The biggest con in this book for me is that, at times, it came off almost preachy and heavy handed on certain issues, like abortion and women's place in society. In certain parts of this book, I got the impression that the author was comparing female freedom in life to infanticide and evil. That just strikes me wrong on so many levels. There were also times where I felt like I was in church and the preacher was giving a sermon. And while that has its place, I didn't enjoy it that much in my fiction. But then again, this book draws its inspiration from the Bible so I guess it's supposed to be there. From glimpsing through some other reviews, I seem to be in the minority here with these impressions. But they were the big hang ups for me in enjoying this book fully.
Overall, this book swept me into ancient Israel with vivid characters, larger than life religions, and situations that both appalled and kept me engaged. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Bible-inspired Christian fiction as long as you're able to overlook some at times heavy moralizing.
Rating is actually 3.5, but rounded down for the reason in paragraph 4.
I did really enjoy the fleshing out of Jezebel's character. She breathed with life, with motivations, causes, and emotions all her own. While I definitely wouldn't want to hang out with her in real life ('dis girl got some serious issues), the author gives us reasons for why she is the way she is through life events and a belief system that is twisted at best. Since this is reason for my signing up for a copy of this book, I'm glad it paid off in a rich and vivid character study of one of the Bible's most hated females.
The time period came alive for me as well. The author made ancient Phoenicia and Israel come to life through the sights, smells, and sounds of the ancient world. The distinct cultures of each nation also were very vividly contrasted, from the colors of everyday life to how the people approach their religions.
I've got to give the author chops for not being afraid to portray the times as they were. It wasn't all dreamy nostalgic reminiscences of a better time. Life was harsh and often short, with famine and nasty religions everywhere. The graphic portrayals of the sacrifices and mass murder scenes threw me a bit, but only in that the world felt more real to me. I actually enjoyed that realism, just make sure you're not eating while reading them.
The biggest con in this book for me is that, at times, it came off almost preachy and heavy handed on certain issues, like abortion and women's place in society. In certain parts of this book, I got the impression that the author was comparing female freedom in life to infanticide and evil. That just strikes me wrong on so many levels. There were also times where I felt like I was in church and the preacher was giving a sermon. And while that has its place, I didn't enjoy it that much in my fiction. But then again, this book draws its inspiration from the Bible so I guess it's supposed to be there. From glimpsing through some other reviews, I seem to be in the minority here with these impressions. But they were the big hang ups for me in enjoying this book fully.
Overall, this book swept me into ancient Israel with vivid characters, larger than life religions, and situations that both appalled and kept me engaged. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Bible-inspired Christian fiction as long as you're able to overlook some at times heavy moralizing.
August 16, 2015
This was an ARC sent to me by NetGalley a long time ago and due to unforeseen circumstances, it was one of the novels relegated to a forgotten status when I had to limit the amount of books I read a year. Yet, whenever I found a chance I would read for ten minutes, sometimes thirty, because the premise intrigued me.
You see, as someone who is learning about the bible and various characters, the idea of Jezebel intrigued me. Was she a folk hero? A feminist? Simply misunderstood? I think because my knowledge of Jezebel was limited I was able to appreciate the literary aspects of this novel. If I grew up knowing Jezebel was a vile woman who would meet a disastrous fate, I perhaps would be a bit concerned, but to me this seemed to be a novel of literary standards, where you know Jezebel is defiant, silly, and most of all selfish. She is cunning, vindictive, but all for her desire to rule Israel.
It must have been confusing to her, to learn of God, when she had such a pathetic husband in Ahab. If perhaps he had been stronger or someone around her taught her about Him, the biblical story would have ended differently- or perhaps she was predestined to this fate, without any choice in the matter.
It doesn’t matter.
Her actions are never sugar coated and she is the woman of legend, but for me what was frustrating was how Ahab or someone of influence, be it male or female, did nothing to try to reach to her. Ahab found God, but he didn’t use that knowledge to his full advantage, causing Jezebel to mock God. She is as much at fault as those whole coddled her and simply allowed her to carry on.
I think the greatest critique would be the ending as it gives the impression that Jezebel will be victorious. As you can imagine, after reading the novel I went straight to Wikipedia to find out what happened to her. There was an author’s note, but it doesn’t seem to match up with biblical interpretation. While some may question whether Jezebel is humanized too much, making her sympathetic, I wonder what that ending was all about. It gave the illusion Jezebel finally won, which well, isn’t true.
Believing the bible isn’t necessary to enjoy this novel, but it will cause confusion with those unfamiliar with biblical narratives and those more well versed in bible lore. If you can put aside a few of the details and inconsistencies, you can appreciate the novel for what it is. If not, then I recommend you stay away, as you’ll be disappointed.
You see, as someone who is learning about the bible and various characters, the idea of Jezebel intrigued me. Was she a folk hero? A feminist? Simply misunderstood? I think because my knowledge of Jezebel was limited I was able to appreciate the literary aspects of this novel. If I grew up knowing Jezebel was a vile woman who would meet a disastrous fate, I perhaps would be a bit concerned, but to me this seemed to be a novel of literary standards, where you know Jezebel is defiant, silly, and most of all selfish. She is cunning, vindictive, but all for her desire to rule Israel.
It must have been confusing to her, to learn of God, when she had such a pathetic husband in Ahab. If perhaps he had been stronger or someone around her taught her about Him, the biblical story would have ended differently- or perhaps she was predestined to this fate, without any choice in the matter.
It doesn’t matter.
Her actions are never sugar coated and she is the woman of legend, but for me what was frustrating was how Ahab or someone of influence, be it male or female, did nothing to try to reach to her. Ahab found God, but he didn’t use that knowledge to his full advantage, causing Jezebel to mock God. She is as much at fault as those whole coddled her and simply allowed her to carry on.
I think the greatest critique would be the ending as it gives the impression that Jezebel will be victorious. As you can imagine, after reading the novel I went straight to Wikipedia to find out what happened to her. There was an author’s note, but it doesn’t seem to match up with biblical interpretation. While some may question whether Jezebel is humanized too much, making her sympathetic, I wonder what that ending was all about. It gave the illusion Jezebel finally won, which well, isn’t true.
Believing the bible isn’t necessary to enjoy this novel, but it will cause confusion with those unfamiliar with biblical narratives and those more well versed in bible lore. If you can put aside a few of the details and inconsistencies, you can appreciate the novel for what it is. If not, then I recommend you stay away, as you’ll be disappointed.
April 3, 2013
It is an age old story – a young woman is given to a man not of her choosing; they share nothing in common but this; they worship differently; their countries differ in status; and yet they are thrown together to make the best of it. Can good come of this union – possibly. But this is the story of Jezebel of Phoenicia and Ahab of Israel, and it is hard for many to view this story for what it is without any prior (Biblical) misconceptions.
We begin with Jezebel as 12yo (886BC) participating in the ritual sacrifices of the day in her native Phoenicia. She reflects on her earlier life – of her mistreatment at the hands of her own family and those around her, and of her growing dedication to the religion of her people – this will be her strength.
Four years later Jezebel is betrothed to Ahab, Prince of Israel (882BC) – it is a union welcomed by neither Jezebel nor Ahab – but it is a union between two nations. And so the story interweaves from the viewpoint of the three main characters – Jezebel, Ahab and Obidaiah (servant to Ahab).
We are taken through the familiar Biblical stories of the introduction of the priests of Jezebel; the struggle of Ahab between accommodating his new wife’s religion and the constant need to please the prophet and God of Israel. Jezebel slowly begins to feel her strength when both she and Ahab ascend to the throne of Israel. But for Ahab, the internal conflict only increases between his duty to his country and his religion – can they both co-exist.
As she tells us, Jezebel had given everything for a throne - and what she hadn't given was taken from her. Whilst Ahab is depicted as a weak ruler, sinking ever deeper into a melancholy – hovering between his loyalty to his God or his country - Jezebel takes on his role as ruler and has strength to follow her convictions in the face of opposition. Jezebel takes more of a leading role, making decisions that Ahab is afraid to make (the story of Naboth’s garden is a prime example) – that which he covets but cannot obtain, Jezebel obtains.
Events take place from the marriage of Jezebel and Ahab to the point of Ahab’s death – and this is where Jezebel leaves us – with a footnote from the author as to her future.
I have enjoyed this new look at a woman who has been tarred with the same brush as Eve – it is an intriguing story of how this woman came to be – and what drove her.
We begin with Jezebel as 12yo (886BC) participating in the ritual sacrifices of the day in her native Phoenicia. She reflects on her earlier life – of her mistreatment at the hands of her own family and those around her, and of her growing dedication to the religion of her people – this will be her strength.
Four years later Jezebel is betrothed to Ahab, Prince of Israel (882BC) – it is a union welcomed by neither Jezebel nor Ahab – but it is a union between two nations. And so the story interweaves from the viewpoint of the three main characters – Jezebel, Ahab and Obidaiah (servant to Ahab).
We are taken through the familiar Biblical stories of the introduction of the priests of Jezebel; the struggle of Ahab between accommodating his new wife’s religion and the constant need to please the prophet and God of Israel. Jezebel slowly begins to feel her strength when both she and Ahab ascend to the throne of Israel. But for Ahab, the internal conflict only increases between his duty to his country and his religion – can they both co-exist.
As she tells us, Jezebel had given everything for a throne - and what she hadn't given was taken from her. Whilst Ahab is depicted as a weak ruler, sinking ever deeper into a melancholy – hovering between his loyalty to his God or his country - Jezebel takes on his role as ruler and has strength to follow her convictions in the face of opposition. Jezebel takes more of a leading role, making decisions that Ahab is afraid to make (the story of Naboth’s garden is a prime example) – that which he covets but cannot obtain, Jezebel obtains.
Events take place from the marriage of Jezebel and Ahab to the point of Ahab’s death – and this is where Jezebel leaves us – with a footnote from the author as to her future.
I have enjoyed this new look at a woman who has been tarred with the same brush as Eve – it is an intriguing story of how this woman came to be – and what drove her.
March 24, 2013
Let me start with saying that I don’t like biblical fiction. I don’t know why, I just don’t. Until now.
Ginger Garrett has written a refreshingly beautiful, descriptive, and haunting story of Queen Jezebel. If you don’t know the biblical story of Jezebel, you can read it in the Bible in 1 Kings 16 through 1 Kings 22, and in 2 Kings 9 and 2 Kings 10. Her writing is obviously fictional, though thoroughly researched. It seems as if she’s taken great pains to make sure her story is as accurate as can be with as little detail that is known about Jezebel and her reign over Israel.
Ms. Garrett writes the story from the point of view of three historical figures: Jezebel, King Ahab (who is actually Prince Ahab through 90% of the book), and Obadiah, who served King Ahab (there are twelve Obadiah’s mentioned in the Old Testament, one of whom wrote the shortest book in the OT, though it can’t be attributed to any of the Obadiah’s mentioned in the OT). The character of Jezebel is horrifying (especially in the opening scene) yet compelling. Does that make sense? You’re sickened at her actions and disregard for life and the Lord, but you almost feel a compassion for her when she’s younger. As her character develops throughout the book, you truly don’t like the woman (as is right!), but there is still a part of me that aches for the little girl who could have been redeemed had she not been so deceived by evil. Ahab is also a compelling character; you cheer him on but want to smack him silly. And Obadiah…you want to smack him for not speaking up confidently enough to be listened to, but you still have compassion for him as he shows his own compassion.
The book was a little slow at times, but I highly recommend it. Ms. Garrett is a fabulous writer who kept me intrigued and made me want to go read the biblical account of Ahab and Jezebel. When you read the story, make sure you read the word from the author at the end of the book (I always do!); she gives a little bit more detail. If you’re like me, you’ll find yourself on Google researching what Garrett wrote about—the mark of a great story and writer!
*I received a digital advance copy of this book from David C. Cook through NetGalley. This did not effect my opinions one way or another.
Ginger Garrett has written a refreshingly beautiful, descriptive, and haunting story of Queen Jezebel. If you don’t know the biblical story of Jezebel, you can read it in the Bible in 1 Kings 16 through 1 Kings 22, and in 2 Kings 9 and 2 Kings 10. Her writing is obviously fictional, though thoroughly researched. It seems as if she’s taken great pains to make sure her story is as accurate as can be with as little detail that is known about Jezebel and her reign over Israel.
Ms. Garrett writes the story from the point of view of three historical figures: Jezebel, King Ahab (who is actually Prince Ahab through 90% of the book), and Obadiah, who served King Ahab (there are twelve Obadiah’s mentioned in the Old Testament, one of whom wrote the shortest book in the OT, though it can’t be attributed to any of the Obadiah’s mentioned in the OT). The character of Jezebel is horrifying (especially in the opening scene) yet compelling. Does that make sense? You’re sickened at her actions and disregard for life and the Lord, but you almost feel a compassion for her when she’s younger. As her character develops throughout the book, you truly don’t like the woman (as is right!), but there is still a part of me that aches for the little girl who could have been redeemed had she not been so deceived by evil. Ahab is also a compelling character; you cheer him on but want to smack him silly. And Obadiah…you want to smack him for not speaking up confidently enough to be listened to, but you still have compassion for him as he shows his own compassion.
The book was a little slow at times, but I highly recommend it. Ms. Garrett is a fabulous writer who kept me intrigued and made me want to go read the biblical account of Ahab and Jezebel. When you read the story, make sure you read the word from the author at the end of the book (I always do!); she gives a little bit more detail. If you’re like me, you’ll find yourself on Google researching what Garrett wrote about—the mark of a great story and writer!
*I received a digital advance copy of this book from David C. Cook through NetGalley. This did not effect my opinions one way or another.
October 21, 2013
Beyond the Drama, Her Heart Was Real.
From the moment her marriage to prince Ahab thrusts her into the intrigues of palace life, Jezebel’s exotic beauty opens doors and her will breaks down walls. Torn from her homeland and wed to power in a strange country, Jezebel vows to create a legacy and power all her own. Some might call her a manipulative schemer, bent on having her way. But they don’t know the whole story, and she was much, much worse.
As she moves through the halls of power, her heart struggles between devotion to the gods she worships, the prince who loves her, and her thirst for revenge. She sparks a battle between her strangely powerless gods and the God of palace administrator Obadiah—a God who confronts her with surprising might. She will fight, though victory may cost her everything.
My Review:
Jezebel is a woman that will forever live in infamy. While we don't talk a lot about the men in her life, we know for a fact that she caused them a lot of grief. She is well known for her wickedness, and she has become a legend because of her actions. But underneath all the notoriety and disgrace that come with her name, Jezebel was as a real as person as you and I. Given to a marriage in a strange land, she was destined to become more than just a name in the past, but a woman of power, wickedness, and evil.
One of my favorite things about Biblical fiction is the depiction of the times. Too many times the truth of the past is sugar coated because it's too graphic, too descriptive, and too detailed in it's representation. I, for one, enjoy all the details, because it just brings to light how deep God's mercy really is, and how He has forgiven His people over and over again throughout the centuries. Actions bring consequences, but until we fully understand the sin, we cannot adequately see how unfathomable the mercy of God extends. Garrett beautifully tells the story of Jezebel, fleshes her out as a real person, and gives us an honest look at what life was in the courts of King Ahab. She brings Jezebel down to human terms, and gives us an understanding of the times and the people with a gifted and masterful pen.
This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
From the moment her marriage to prince Ahab thrusts her into the intrigues of palace life, Jezebel’s exotic beauty opens doors and her will breaks down walls. Torn from her homeland and wed to power in a strange country, Jezebel vows to create a legacy and power all her own. Some might call her a manipulative schemer, bent on having her way. But they don’t know the whole story, and she was much, much worse.
As she moves through the halls of power, her heart struggles between devotion to the gods she worships, the prince who loves her, and her thirst for revenge. She sparks a battle between her strangely powerless gods and the God of palace administrator Obadiah—a God who confronts her with surprising might. She will fight, though victory may cost her everything.
My Review:
Jezebel is a woman that will forever live in infamy. While we don't talk a lot about the men in her life, we know for a fact that she caused them a lot of grief. She is well known for her wickedness, and she has become a legend because of her actions. But underneath all the notoriety and disgrace that come with her name, Jezebel was as a real as person as you and I. Given to a marriage in a strange land, she was destined to become more than just a name in the past, but a woman of power, wickedness, and evil.
One of my favorite things about Biblical fiction is the depiction of the times. Too many times the truth of the past is sugar coated because it's too graphic, too descriptive, and too detailed in it's representation. I, for one, enjoy all the details, because it just brings to light how deep God's mercy really is, and how He has forgiven His people over and over again throughout the centuries. Actions bring consequences, but until we fully understand the sin, we cannot adequately see how unfathomable the mercy of God extends. Garrett beautifully tells the story of Jezebel, fleshes her out as a real person, and gives us an honest look at what life was in the courts of King Ahab. She brings Jezebel down to human terms, and gives us an understanding of the times and the people with a gifted and masterful pen.
This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2013
Great Biblical fiction story with a little different view
I don't ordinarily read much for Biblical fiction but I have been expanding my reading in that direction. I wasn't sure how I would like a book where the main characters are, well, kind of the bad guys. Definitely not heroine and hero material. But I was pleasantly surprised, it fleshed out the Biblical account and made me look at Jezebel in an entirely new way.
I was very impressed with the way Ginger Garrett handled the story, she didn't sacrifice the Biblical account in any way. Jezebel is still just as reprehensible, only now you get an idea as to what might have driven her.
Many sections of the story were nearly word for word from the Bible and I recognized much from Sunday School. The author's attention to Biblical detail is apparent, it's also obvious that she has read her Bible and paid attention.
I liked how the author kept the awe inspiring-ness of the God of the Old Testament. He is mighty and powerful, actively working in the world, His very presence is palpable.
Jezebel, herself, is hard to figure. You can see why she might have been driven to what she did, how childhood experiences and years of teaching by pagan priests might have turned her into the woman she was. At times you almost feel sorry for her and others you really feel that the curses were well deserved.
Ahab was warned to not bring a Phoenician bride back to Israel. What consequences will he pay for not obeying Yahweh's command? Ahab was also a bit hard to figure. On one hand he is gentle and genuinely loves Jezebel, and on the other he is a battle hardened warrior. His father was harsh and left Ahab not only scarred but also unable to wield the power that Jezebel thinks he should have.
Jezebel makes it her personal mission to defeat Yahweh, will she succeed? I suggest you read this book and your Bible to find out!
(I received this book from the Publisher through Bookfun.org in exchange for my honest opinion.)
I don't ordinarily read much for Biblical fiction but I have been expanding my reading in that direction. I wasn't sure how I would like a book where the main characters are, well, kind of the bad guys. Definitely not heroine and hero material. But I was pleasantly surprised, it fleshed out the Biblical account and made me look at Jezebel in an entirely new way.
I was very impressed with the way Ginger Garrett handled the story, she didn't sacrifice the Biblical account in any way. Jezebel is still just as reprehensible, only now you get an idea as to what might have driven her.
Many sections of the story were nearly word for word from the Bible and I recognized much from Sunday School. The author's attention to Biblical detail is apparent, it's also obvious that she has read her Bible and paid attention.
I liked how the author kept the awe inspiring-ness of the God of the Old Testament. He is mighty and powerful, actively working in the world, His very presence is palpable.
Jezebel, herself, is hard to figure. You can see why she might have been driven to what she did, how childhood experiences and years of teaching by pagan priests might have turned her into the woman she was. At times you almost feel sorry for her and others you really feel that the curses were well deserved.
Ahab was warned to not bring a Phoenician bride back to Israel. What consequences will he pay for not obeying Yahweh's command? Ahab was also a bit hard to figure. On one hand he is gentle and genuinely loves Jezebel, and on the other he is a battle hardened warrior. His father was harsh and left Ahab not only scarred but also unable to wield the power that Jezebel thinks he should have.
Jezebel makes it her personal mission to defeat Yahweh, will she succeed? I suggest you read this book and your Bible to find out!
(I received this book from the Publisher through Bookfun.org in exchange for my honest opinion.)
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