Gathered: A Novel of Ruth

by Lee Ann Setzer

Join Ruth on a richly-imagined journey from the land of her birth to the Promised Land. Both those who love the old story, and those who've never yet encountered it, will find something that resonates for them in this fresh and engaging tale. Ruth thought her life was over. Widowed and penniless, she despaired of anything better than poverty and grief, whether in Moab or among her dead husband’s people. Following her mother-in-law back to Bayt-Lahm would be less lonely. Ten years among the people of Jacob’s Street had taught her the forms of their Law. Yet Bayt-Lahm turned out to be more than a sleepy village, and its Lord more than the voiceless, powerless statues of Moab’s gods. At least one man in Bayt-Lahm had honor and virtue beyond measure. The widower Boaz taught Ruth, and all who met him, what loving the Lord could really mean. Could she bring him to love her, as well?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Adult

190 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2003

Reviews

[Rebecca Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

As as you would imagine, Gathered: A Novel of Ruth by LeeAnn Setzer (Cedar Fort, 2003) is a fictionalized retelling of the story of Ruth from the Bible, from when she first marries Naomi’s son until her betrothal and marriage to Boaz. Reading this well-researched historical fiction gave me a fresh new perspective on Ruth’s story and dedication to Naomi and what it may mean to convert to a new faith. I love seeing historical fiction based on true stories, so even though this didn’t feel like the smoothest writing, I appreciated this sweet Biblical retelling of Ruth’s story.

Before her first marriage, the novel portrays Ruth as a vibrant young woman, eager to show her talents to her new family. But she learned quickly that some of the traditions she had been raised with would not be okay in the strict Jewish household. After this introduction to Ruth, the novel skipped time to show Naomi, Ruth, and Orpah living without any living children and husbands. The devastation to these women felt real as I read of these three widows in mourning in a difficult ancient culture.

Ruth left her home to go with Naomi to return to Israel. Her dedication to Naomi and her journey toward faith as an Israelite was the story in the bulk of the novel. Her journey required physical, emotional, and spiritual sacrifice. She developed the faith she needed to be an Israelite, learning to worship the One True God and trust in Him.

There are lots of interpretations on what the Bible means when Ruth lay at Boaz’s feet. I always thought it strange. Based on research, the author gives her own sample of what and why Ruth did so. It was convincing, and I felt it gave a perspective on the story. It acknowledged this would have been strange even in Ruth’s day as well, but also how Boaz most likely would have interpreted Ruth’s actions himself. I loved the characters of Ruth and Boaz, I loved Naomi, and I enjoyed seeing the Bible “come alive” in this novel. Now I need to reread the book of Ruth in the Bible to appreciate the biblical text even more.

[Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's been a while since I read this book. It was interesting to read the story of Ruth in a novel format. Lee Ann handled some of the more delicate moments well. I know that a lot if research went into this book, and I appreciate the finished version.

[Brenda · Rating 3 out of 5]

I came away with a better understanding of the times and customs associated with the biblical account of Ruth.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great historical fiction read. Loved this book.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

The only novelization of Ruth and Naomi I've found. A good story. You get to know the people and culture of that time and place.