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The Scarlet Ribbon
As the Revolutionary War unfurls around her, Rebekah Stanton is abandoned by the man who once claimed to love her. Shunned by her father and forced to give up her child, she finds herself thrust into prostitution at the local boarding house.
When the British seize control of the nearby fort, she gives little thought to the officers who frequent the boarding house. Men are men regardless of the color of their uniform…or so she believes. But then a young man—a Patriot spy named Benjamin Renshaw—stumbles upon her in the darkness, and she saves him from a group of pursuing Redcoats.
With an attack on the fort brewing in the background and the father of her child returned to serve with the British, Rebekah is torn between old dreams and new hope, struggling all the while to find peace and forgiveness in a place of rising conflict.
When the British seize control of the nearby fort, she gives little thought to the officers who frequent the boarding house. Men are men regardless of the color of their uniform…or so she believes. But then a young man—a Patriot spy named Benjamin Renshaw—stumbles upon her in the darkness, and she saves him from a group of pursuing Redcoats.
With an attack on the fort brewing in the background and the father of her child returned to serve with the British, Rebekah is torn between old dreams and new hope, struggling all the while to find peace and forgiveness in a place of rising conflict.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 17, 2025
4 people are currently reading
204 people want to read
About the author
Naomi Stephens
5 books272 followersNaomi Stephens is a bookworm turned teacher turned writer. She received a B.A. in English from Concordia University in Ann Arbor, and an M.A. in English from Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne.
In bookstores, Naomi gravitates towards 19th-century British novels—the broodier the better (i.e., Jane Eyre)—but she can also be found perusing the young adult, mystery, and fantasy sections. Anything that keeps her turning pages past midnight.
Though she has called many places home over the years, she currently lives in Ohio with her husband, her two children, and a rascal of a dog named Sherlock. When not writing or having adventures with her family, she can be found drinking tea, practicing photography, and pining for London.
In bookstores, Naomi gravitates towards 19th-century British novels—the broodier the better (i.e., Jane Eyre)—but she can also be found perusing the young adult, mystery, and fantasy sections. Anything that keeps her turning pages past midnight.
Though she has called many places home over the years, she currently lives in Ohio with her husband, her two children, and a rascal of a dog named Sherlock. When not writing or having adventures with her family, she can be found drinking tea, practicing photography, and pining for London.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 6, 2024
In The Scarlet Ribbon, Naomi Stephens presents a clever retelling of the biblical story of Rahab set against the backdrop of the tumultuous Revolutionary War. This is a book of intrigue and romance, fresh beginnings and bravery as the heroine learns to break free from the grip of her past to embrace a new future. A poignant story of hope blooming in the middle of hard places, The Scarlet Ribbon is sure to delight fans of historical fiction!
April 13, 2025
An original and unique retelling of the story of Rehab in the Bible. I really enjoyed it!
February 10, 2025
Sparked by the story of Rahab in the Bible, this story follows the long journey of Rebekah from her fall from grace to her redemption at the battle of Stony Point during the Revolutionary War.
Some situations were hard to read about, such as prostitution, but were realistically portrayed. The descriptive language put me right in the battles and had me empathizing with the characters.
Rebecca was put in an impossible place of her own making, alienating her father. But Reverend Wainwright continue to pray for her and encouraged her to return to Christ. She was caught between the British Loyalists and found herself helping a Patriot spy. There were lots of tense moments that kept the story exciting.
For fans of Revolutionary history with a redemptive thread.
* A complimentary copy of this book was obtained through WhiteFire Publishing on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Some situations were hard to read about, such as prostitution, but were realistically portrayed. The descriptive language put me right in the battles and had me empathizing with the characters.
Rebecca was put in an impossible place of her own making, alienating her father. But Reverend Wainwright continue to pray for her and encouraged her to return to Christ. She was caught between the British Loyalists and found herself helping a Patriot spy. There were lots of tense moments that kept the story exciting.
For fans of Revolutionary history with a redemptive thread.
* A complimentary copy of this book was obtained through WhiteFire Publishing on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
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April 9, 2025This book was fantastic. Paralleling Rahab protecting/hiding the spies in Jericho, to Rebekah (Stephens' heroine) aiding spies in the AmRev was genius. I've had trouble with longer novels lately thanks to a surgery, but I could hardly put this one down. In truth, I only took breaks to sleep and work (and the temptation to NOT do these things in favor of reading was always present lol).
From the very start, Rebekah was presented as a sympathetic figure caught in an unfortunate situation. Due to an out of wedlock pregnancy, she had to give up her son -- against her will -- and when her lover never returned for her, she felt she had no choice but to work in a brothel. Paralleled against her story was Ben Renshaw, a patriot spy with demons of his own. I really loved Ben. At the start, he reminded me of spymaster Benjamin Tallmadge from the Culper Ring (unsure if this was intentional or not), but he quickly became his own person in my eyes, and I really enjoyed seeing the relationship unfold between him and Rebekah. I also really loved Ben's friendship with Reverend Wainwright! They had a tentative, but warm bond that more or less filled the void of the paternal loss Ben had suffered. Their scenes were some of my absolute favorites.
Surprisingly, I also kind of liked Mason. I say "surprisingly," because I wasn't expecting to find Rebekah's former lover charming in any right, given what he did to her. There WAS a point where I wanted her to smack him (several times during the same scene, for that matter), but he redeemed himself in the end, and I don't consider him a villain -- just a product of his time, because most people seemed to value reputation above anything else. As a side note, this is the first time I didn't mind a love triangle. There's usually a clear winner that makes it seem pointless, but this love triangle never felt trite or forced since it beautifully expressed Rebekah being caught between both sides. And may I just add, that once it WAS clear who Rebekah chose, I found it so beautiful when
Speaking of being caught between both sides, I really liked the humanizing of both the redcoats and patriots, especially with lines like this: "He might have been a redcoat, or he might have been a patriot. It struck her that she couldn't tell the color of a man's coat by his dying screams alone." In short, in war, the lines blur and it's not really accurate to broadstroke either side as good or evil.
Lastly, I enjoyed how the titular scarlet ribbon kept popping up to tie-in (no pun intended) Ben and Rebekah's story. The last few pages, in particular, had me all warm inside and smiling, and it was such a fitting, beautiful ending to such a wonderful story. I got a little glassy-eyed during the acknowledgments too, where Stephens thanked God and her readers. I can't properly express myself whenever I really love a book, but I plan on buying a physical copy (I tend to mostly get ebooks these days) so I can always have this book on my shelf. This story warmed me, thrilled me, and showed how even in the midst of pain and grief, the most beautiful things can come from the most unexpected of places with God's grace.
From the very start, Rebekah was presented as a sympathetic figure caught in an unfortunate situation. Due to an out of wedlock pregnancy, she had to give up her son -- against her will -- and when her lover never returned for her, she felt she had no choice but to work in a brothel. Paralleled against her story was Ben Renshaw, a patriot spy with demons of his own. I really loved Ben. At the start, he reminded me of spymaster Benjamin Tallmadge from the Culper Ring (unsure if this was intentional or not), but he quickly became his own person in my eyes, and I really enjoyed seeing the relationship unfold between him and Rebekah. I also really loved Ben's friendship with Reverend Wainwright! They had a tentative, but warm bond that more or less filled the void of the paternal loss Ben had suffered. Their scenes were some of my absolute favorites.
Surprisingly, I also kind of liked Mason. I say "surprisingly," because I wasn't expecting to find Rebekah's former lover charming in any right, given what he did to her. There WAS a point where I wanted her to smack him (several times during the same scene, for that matter), but he redeemed himself in the end, and I don't consider him a villain -- just a product of his time, because most people seemed to value reputation above anything else. As a side note, this is the first time I didn't mind a love triangle. There's usually a clear winner that makes it seem pointless, but this love triangle never felt trite or forced since it beautifully expressed Rebekah being caught between both sides. And may I just add, that once it WAS clear who Rebekah chose, I found it so beautiful when
Speaking of being caught between both sides, I really liked the humanizing of both the redcoats and patriots, especially with lines like this: "He might have been a redcoat, or he might have been a patriot. It struck her that she couldn't tell the color of a man's coat by his dying screams alone." In short, in war, the lines blur and it's not really accurate to broadstroke either side as good or evil.
Lastly, I enjoyed how the titular scarlet ribbon kept popping up to tie-in (no pun intended) Ben and Rebekah's story. The last few pages, in particular, had me all warm inside and smiling, and it was such a fitting, beautiful ending to such a wonderful story. I got a little glassy-eyed during the acknowledgments too, where Stephens thanked God and her readers. I can't properly express myself whenever I really love a book, but I plan on buying a physical copy (I tend to mostly get ebooks these days) so I can always have this book on my shelf. This story warmed me, thrilled me, and showed how even in the midst of pain and grief, the most beautiful things can come from the most unexpected of places with God's grace.
February 25, 2025
This is my first Naomi Stephens book and I enjoyed the reimagining of Rahab’s story set in 1779. Rebekah’s heart-breaking past and her bleak present set the stage for God’s redemptive work. I knew nothing of the fort at Stony Point, NY so it was fascinating to travel to this place and time. Ben’s work as a Patriot spy was fraught with danger. He didn’t pretend to be anything he wasn’t with Rebekah and I found his candor refreshing though his bitterness and anger required quite a bit of spiritual intervention. Both main characters were flawed, real, and relatable. The banter between Ben and Rebekah was witty, clever, and oftentimes like watching two bulls lock horns. There was a love triangle which was my least favorite part of the book (mostly because I really dislike love triangles). Forgiveness, grace, and mercy were found by those who sought them and Reverend Wainwright with his wisdom and fortitude was probably my favorite character in the book.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of WhiteFire Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of WhiteFire Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
April 20, 2025
This story turned out to be very uplifting and redeeming. For me it started a tad slow but soon I was rooting for Ben and Rebekah and hanging on the edge of my seat to see what would happen to them. The side characters were also compelling, especially Reverened Wainwright. I love to see honorable clergymen in fiction. The story kept me guessing until the very end and I enjoyed the twists and suspense. I enjoyed the plot points which made this a Rahab retelling; that was very creative and well done.
The author chose a unique location for a Revolutionary War story (finally not a setting of Boston or Philadelphia!) The Battle of Stony Point was brought to life in an exciting way. I actually visited this battle site ten years ago so I could easily imagine the events unfolding. I am also familiar with Haverstraw so that made it even more special.
I will give this a solid 4.5 stars and would definitely read more by this author.
The author chose a unique location for a Revolutionary War story (finally not a setting of Boston or Philadelphia!) The Battle of Stony Point was brought to life in an exciting way. I actually visited this battle site ten years ago so I could easily imagine the events unfolding. I am also familiar with Haverstraw so that made it even more special.
I will give this a solid 4.5 stars and would definitely read more by this author.
March 3, 2025
Rebekah is spiraled out of the protection of her family and into a lifestyle she would have never dreamed she would enter. Without choices, she resigns herself to this horrible life until a wounded soldier seeks her aide.
Naomi Stephens has penned a revolutionary era retelling of Rahab that is both unique and credible. With a significant spiritual theme, Rebekah is a character who struggles with her past decisions, believing that God’s love and protection has been traded for His wrath. Her redemption story is coupled with that of her rescuer, bringing this tale to a satisfying end.
Several favorite quotes-
“There is nothing in either of us, ruined or otherwise, that God is not using for His will.”
“As her fingers fastened around the ribbon, she sensed that first quiet glimmer of answered prayer, of two people woven together and held fast by the grace of God.”
This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.
Naomi Stephens has penned a revolutionary era retelling of Rahab that is both unique and credible. With a significant spiritual theme, Rebekah is a character who struggles with her past decisions, believing that God’s love and protection has been traded for His wrath. Her redemption story is coupled with that of her rescuer, bringing this tale to a satisfying end.
Several favorite quotes-
“There is nothing in either of us, ruined or otherwise, that God is not using for His will.”
“As her fingers fastened around the ribbon, she sensed that first quiet glimmer of answered prayer, of two people woven together and held fast by the grace of God.”
This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.
April 1, 2025
"The Scarlet Ribbon" by Naomi Stephens is a very well written retelling of Rahab from the Old Testament. Rebekah finds herself cast out of her childhood home after having a child out of wedlock and ends up as a prostitute in the Revolutionary War period. This book has some very difficult moments but also has very beautiful, faith filled moments where the heroine discovers she's more than what her present circumstances are.
Since this is a book set around war, specifically the battle of Stony Point, there is danger and intrigue throughout as the Patriots and Royalists clash with Rebekah in the middle of it all. The author does a great job keeping the reader engaged and wondering what will happen next.
The reader is very aware of Rebekah as a prostitute but this is a closed door book, so anything that happens is off page and alluded to only. There is nothing graphic about her interludes - just the fact of what she does to stay alive. There is a love triangle where she needs to make some decisions based on an old love and a new man in her life.
This is a wonderful faith-filled book by a Christian author. This is a story of redemption, much like the biblical Rahab - exactly what a reader of a Rahab retelling would hope for. There are twists and turns along the way to keep the reader wondering what will happen next.
If you are a reader that enjoy stories of redemption out of the most broken of circumstances, this book is definitely for you. I recommend this book for adult readers due to content but older teens and parents going through this one together may allow for a book to discuss hard, but real topics. This book is written in a tasteful way for sure and has good talking points for discussion.
Thank you to Whitefire Publishing on behalf of the author for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Since this is a book set around war, specifically the battle of Stony Point, there is danger and intrigue throughout as the Patriots and Royalists clash with Rebekah in the middle of it all. The author does a great job keeping the reader engaged and wondering what will happen next.
The reader is very aware of Rebekah as a prostitute but this is a closed door book, so anything that happens is off page and alluded to only. There is nothing graphic about her interludes - just the fact of what she does to stay alive. There is a love triangle where she needs to make some decisions based on an old love and a new man in her life.
This is a wonderful faith-filled book by a Christian author. This is a story of redemption, much like the biblical Rahab - exactly what a reader of a Rahab retelling would hope for. There are twists and turns along the way to keep the reader wondering what will happen next.
If you are a reader that enjoy stories of redemption out of the most broken of circumstances, this book is definitely for you. I recommend this book for adult readers due to content but older teens and parents going through this one together may allow for a book to discuss hard, but real topics. This book is written in a tasteful way for sure and has good talking points for discussion.
Thank you to Whitefire Publishing on behalf of the author for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 17, 2025
The Scarlet Ribbon is the first book I have read by Naomi Stephens and I really enjoyed it. Told from two points of view, this story takes place during the Revolutionary War, but is also a retelling of the story of Rahab from the Old Testament.
Rebekah Stanton has been abandoned by those who should love her. Her father turned her back on her when it became public knowledge that she gave birth to a baby out of wedlock. The father of the baby, a British Loyalist and soldier had left her before even knowing she was pregnant. Leaving her to face the consequences of their indescretion on her own. With nowhere else to turn, she finds herself turning to prostitution in the local boarding house.
Benjamin Renshaw, known by his alias Ben Clarke for the majority of the story, comes upon said boarding house one night, having been shot. Rebekah cares for him and keeps his identity hidden from the British soldiers with great peril to herself, but then he is gone as fast as he arrived.
However, circumstances eventually bring them together again. But at the same time, Mason, the father of her child, is also back in the area. She wonders if he ever loved her, and more importantly, if he would be able to love her now, especially if he finds out the truth of her "occupation" or if he finds out about their son and what she was forced to do with him.
Lots of intrigue and deception and danger surround the main characters. Rebekah as she has to decide whether of not to tell the whole truth about herself and her past. And Ben as he is a Patriot rebel and spy. It is a tense situation and time leading up to the Battle of Stony Point, a battle that attempts to bring the fort back under the control of the Patriots. A battle I admit not remembering learning about.
There were a lot of emotions that I felt when thinking about Rebekah and all she had gone through and was going through. Not only was she denied the love of those who should have loved her, but she was constantly being used by those who only wanted her for one thing. Would she be able to win Mason back? Was Ben also only interested in her for what she could do for him or could there be something more between them? I did get frustrated with her at times as she continued to keep the truth hidden. But I also understood the struggle she was going through, a struggle even more difficult because she had to choose between being a Loyalist or a Patriot. Though she didn't really see how either loyalty would make a difference in her life, being what she was.
Also important in this story was faith and repentence. We see both Ben and Rebekah struggling with spiritual issues and being guided by Reverend Wainwright. Additionally, it was brought up that as Christians there would have been the struggle between obeying the rulers that were over them, as in the King of England, or choosing freedom.
And I have to say, I loved the way the author brought the red ribbon into the story as the parallel to the story of Rahab.
Of course, this story is based on Rahab and there is no secret that Rebekah is a prostitute. And yes, there are plenty of mentions of this in the book, which includes multiple mentions of men being in her bed or and staring at her lustily. For that reason I would say the book would be appropriate for adults and possibly older teens. Though there is nothing graphic shared and it is closed door.
I received an e-copy of this book as a member of the review team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
Rebekah Stanton has been abandoned by those who should love her. Her father turned her back on her when it became public knowledge that she gave birth to a baby out of wedlock. The father of the baby, a British Loyalist and soldier had left her before even knowing she was pregnant. Leaving her to face the consequences of their indescretion on her own. With nowhere else to turn, she finds herself turning to prostitution in the local boarding house.
Benjamin Renshaw, known by his alias Ben Clarke for the majority of the story, comes upon said boarding house one night, having been shot. Rebekah cares for him and keeps his identity hidden from the British soldiers with great peril to herself, but then he is gone as fast as he arrived.
However, circumstances eventually bring them together again. But at the same time, Mason, the father of her child, is also back in the area. She wonders if he ever loved her, and more importantly, if he would be able to love her now, especially if he finds out the truth of her "occupation" or if he finds out about their son and what she was forced to do with him.
Lots of intrigue and deception and danger surround the main characters. Rebekah as she has to decide whether of not to tell the whole truth about herself and her past. And Ben as he is a Patriot rebel and spy. It is a tense situation and time leading up to the Battle of Stony Point, a battle that attempts to bring the fort back under the control of the Patriots. A battle I admit not remembering learning about.
There were a lot of emotions that I felt when thinking about Rebekah and all she had gone through and was going through. Not only was she denied the love of those who should have loved her, but she was constantly being used by those who only wanted her for one thing. Would she be able to win Mason back? Was Ben also only interested in her for what she could do for him or could there be something more between them? I did get frustrated with her at times as she continued to keep the truth hidden. But I also understood the struggle she was going through, a struggle even more difficult because she had to choose between being a Loyalist or a Patriot. Though she didn't really see how either loyalty would make a difference in her life, being what she was.
Also important in this story was faith and repentence. We see both Ben and Rebekah struggling with spiritual issues and being guided by Reverend Wainwright. Additionally, it was brought up that as Christians there would have been the struggle between obeying the rulers that were over them, as in the King of England, or choosing freedom.
And I have to say, I loved the way the author brought the red ribbon into the story as the parallel to the story of Rahab.
Of course, this story is based on Rahab and there is no secret that Rebekah is a prostitute. And yes, there are plenty of mentions of this in the book, which includes multiple mentions of men being in her bed or and staring at her lustily. For that reason I would say the book would be appropriate for adults and possibly older teens. Though there is nothing graphic shared and it is closed door.
I received an e-copy of this book as a member of the review team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
April 27, 2025
What a captivating, breathtaking story of redemption! This American Revolution story parallels the biblical account of Rahab in beautiful ways, weaving the thread of that true account through Rebekah's and Ben's journey. With the Revolutionary War setting, never mind both of their pasts, the stakes are high, and I was often on the edge of my seat. But what I appreciated most about this story was the way it clearly portrayed the nuances of the choices we make--even the destructive ones--and of war itself. All of the characters, even the "villains," were sympathetic, and yet evil and sin were never glorified. Instead, we had a front row seat to watch as broken people made broken choices that led to real pain and real consequences--and we celebrated with them when they were redeemed from those broken places. The story was masterfully written, and such a worthwhile journey.
I do feel like a disclaimer is needed, though, for any readers who struggle with heavy topics. Like Rahab, Rebekah is a prostitute, and while her lifestyle is never glamorized, neither is it glossed over. I think that was essential for this story, but it did make it difficult to read at times, especially because the author casts Rebekah in a sympathetic light (as she should) from the very outset of the book. But it's an important story, with all its gritty elements, because it can be so easy to label people as good or evil, their choices black or white. The reality is often so much more nuanced and filled with pain, and at the heart of their choices are people who are as sympathetic and deserving of love as Rebekah.
And that, to me, is the very heart of this beautiful story--the very heart of God.
I do feel like a disclaimer is needed, though, for any readers who struggle with heavy topics. Like Rahab, Rebekah is a prostitute, and while her lifestyle is never glamorized, neither is it glossed over. I think that was essential for this story, but it did make it difficult to read at times, especially because the author casts Rebekah in a sympathetic light (as she should) from the very outset of the book. But it's an important story, with all its gritty elements, because it can be so easy to label people as good or evil, their choices black or white. The reality is often so much more nuanced and filled with pain, and at the heart of their choices are people who are as sympathetic and deserving of love as Rebekah.
And that, to me, is the very heart of this beautiful story--the very heart of God.
March 18, 2025
"Hang this outside your tent. Tomorrow. I'll watch for your signal . . . . and I will return for you."
Buried beneath layers of heartache and regret, Rebekah Stanton now finds herself caught between two struggles for predominance in a male-dominated world where subterfuge might just win the battle. When a bloody stranger with an aura of secrets lands in her bed, her role as a local prostitute shifts into something quite yet undefined.
Benjamin Renshaw is walking a very fine line; working as a Patriot spy while mingling among British soldiers could cost him his life. When a beautiful woman gets thrust into the middle through no fault of her own, Ben's chistled determination and well honed focus loses a chink; can he trust her to keep his secrets or is he just using her in the same manner as so many men before him? A scarlet ribbon could make all the difference.
Exceptional! Not only does this story dive headfirst into the annuls of our nation's history, (with vestiges of the Old Testament character of Rahab) but it does so with persons whose interminable courage and determination jump directly off the page and into the heart. Where is God in the midst this mayhem, you might ask? He's in every prayer!
"How often, . . . . . . had she pleaded with God for mercy, for deliverance? . . . . For the strength to step out of the darkness of her past and into the light, wherever it may lead."
Buried beneath layers of heartache and regret, Rebekah Stanton now finds herself caught between two struggles for predominance in a male-dominated world where subterfuge might just win the battle. When a bloody stranger with an aura of secrets lands in her bed, her role as a local prostitute shifts into something quite yet undefined.
Benjamin Renshaw is walking a very fine line; working as a Patriot spy while mingling among British soldiers could cost him his life. When a beautiful woman gets thrust into the middle through no fault of her own, Ben's chistled determination and well honed focus loses a chink; can he trust her to keep his secrets or is he just using her in the same manner as so many men before him? A scarlet ribbon could make all the difference.
Exceptional! Not only does this story dive headfirst into the annuls of our nation's history, (with vestiges of the Old Testament character of Rahab) but it does so with persons whose interminable courage and determination jump directly off the page and into the heart. Where is God in the midst this mayhem, you might ask? He's in every prayer!
"How often, . . . . . . had she pleaded with God for mercy, for deliverance? . . . . For the strength to step out of the darkness of her past and into the light, wherever it may lead."
March 18, 2025
I’m always intrigued when authors take stories from the Bible and retell them in a different era.
Naomi Stephens takes the story of Rahab and sets it in Colonial New York /Revolutionary War era. This was a wonderful take on the story.
There are a few obviously predictable scenes and elements, hard to avoid with retelling Rahab’s story. Due to hard circumstances Rebecca takes a position at Pendergrass House. There is nothing overt, it’s closed door but Naomi also doesn’t mince words as to Rebecca’s occupation and what Rebecca goes through. As with the original story there is a redemption arc for both Rebecca and Ben.
Her role at Pendergrass house allows her access to officers, especially British officers. And more significantly one with whom there is painful history. And a Patriot spy (Ben) whose life she saves.
The Revolutionary/Colonial era is one of my favorites to read. There aren’t many authors who do so. She weaves true historical people and events throughout the story.
This is the first novel I’ve read by Naomi, this is her third novel. And I have her first two on my library hold list and bookstore order list. .
My thanks to the author and Whitefire Publishing for providing a complimentary copy of this book. Without obligation for a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Naomi Stephens takes the story of Rahab and sets it in Colonial New York /Revolutionary War era. This was a wonderful take on the story.
There are a few obviously predictable scenes and elements, hard to avoid with retelling Rahab’s story. Due to hard circumstances Rebecca takes a position at Pendergrass House. There is nothing overt, it’s closed door but Naomi also doesn’t mince words as to Rebecca’s occupation and what Rebecca goes through. As with the original story there is a redemption arc for both Rebecca and Ben.
Her role at Pendergrass house allows her access to officers, especially British officers. And more significantly one with whom there is painful history. And a Patriot spy (Ben) whose life she saves.
The Revolutionary/Colonial era is one of my favorites to read. There aren’t many authors who do so. She weaves true historical people and events throughout the story.
This is the first novel I’ve read by Naomi, this is her third novel. And I have her first two on my library hold list and bookstore order list. .
My thanks to the author and Whitefire Publishing for providing a complimentary copy of this book. Without obligation for a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 9, 2025
The Scarlet Ribbon is an emotional historical fiction inspired by the biblical story of Rahab set during the American Revolutionary War. Naomi Stephens sensitively writes about the main character Rebekah as she turned to life of prostitution because of her life circumstances. Rebekah gave up her child because of family and societal pressures and felt abandoned by all those who should have stood by her. Rebekah feels that the only way for her to survive is to live her life in a boarding house being paid for her services.
Rebekah and Ben cross paths when Rebekah finds him injured out at night and saves his life. Ben and Rebekah form an unlikely friendship and work together to help Ben as he is employed as a spy. Things become further complicated when the father of Rebekah’s child is posted at the British fort and appears to want to reconnect with her while keeping things a secret.
I loved how Ben grew to care for Rebekah and was willing to do whatever it took to protect her. Her station in life and job didn’t stop him from spending time with her and developing a relationship. The scarlet ribbon Ben buys for Rebekah was a beautiful way to connect the story with Rahab.
I haven’t read many stories or history about the American Revolutionary War, but Naomi did a great job depicting the two sides (the American Patriots and the British Loyalists) and made me want to dig deeper into that time in history.
The Scarlet Ribbon is an engaging historical fiction with biblical inspiration that has themes of redemption, courage, faith, family, and finding forgiveness in God.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Naomi Stephens and WhiteFire Publishing. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Rebekah and Ben cross paths when Rebekah finds him injured out at night and saves his life. Ben and Rebekah form an unlikely friendship and work together to help Ben as he is employed as a spy. Things become further complicated when the father of Rebekah’s child is posted at the British fort and appears to want to reconnect with her while keeping things a secret.
I loved how Ben grew to care for Rebekah and was willing to do whatever it took to protect her. Her station in life and job didn’t stop him from spending time with her and developing a relationship. The scarlet ribbon Ben buys for Rebekah was a beautiful way to connect the story with Rahab.
I haven’t read many stories or history about the American Revolutionary War, but Naomi did a great job depicting the two sides (the American Patriots and the British Loyalists) and made me want to dig deeper into that time in history.
The Scarlet Ribbon is an engaging historical fiction with biblical inspiration that has themes of redemption, courage, faith, family, and finding forgiveness in God.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Naomi Stephens and WhiteFire Publishing. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
March 23, 2025
Naomi Stephens' novel, "The Scarlet Ribbon," reimagines the biblical story of Rahab during the Revolutionary War. Rebekah is banished by her father after an out-of-wedlock pregnancy. Her child is taken from her, and she becomes a prostitute to survive. Wartime danger and intrigue fill the pages of this book.
Rebekah's life intertwines with two men. Ben, a Patriot spy, and Mason, a British Royalist who fathered her child. Protecting Ben forces Rebekah into a web of lies. She keeps secrets from Mason, which could ruin their future.
Forgiveness, grace, and faith are woven throughout the story. The scarlet ribbon Ben gifts Rebekah beautifully connects to Rahab's tale. One favorite quote reads, “As her fingers fastened around the ribbon, she sensed that first quiet glimmer of answered prayer, of two people woven together and held fast by the grace of God.”
This engaging and clean novel is perfect for adults and mature teens. The harsh realities of war are depicted throughout. Stephens' historically accurate and beautifully written novel will capture your heart.
***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and a positive review is not required.***
Rebekah's life intertwines with two men. Ben, a Patriot spy, and Mason, a British Royalist who fathered her child. Protecting Ben forces Rebekah into a web of lies. She keeps secrets from Mason, which could ruin their future.
Forgiveness, grace, and faith are woven throughout the story. The scarlet ribbon Ben gifts Rebekah beautifully connects to Rahab's tale. One favorite quote reads, “As her fingers fastened around the ribbon, she sensed that first quiet glimmer of answered prayer, of two people woven together and held fast by the grace of God.”
This engaging and clean novel is perfect for adults and mature teens. The harsh realities of war are depicted throughout. Stephens' historically accurate and beautifully written novel will capture your heart.
***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and a positive review is not required.***
July 7, 2025
I picked up this book because I personally know the author. I don't read a lot of romances, and I'm not sure I've read any sort of Christian lit. I don't know who Rahab is, but plenty of other reviews here can describe how this is a retelling of her story. I'll be honest, I didn't know what to expect, and I thought it might be a little preachy (having never read this particular genre).
Boy, was I wrong! This is just great historical fiction. I never would have guessed this was Christian lit (which may be a drawback for some but perhaps a plus for others). I felt terrible for the situation Rebekah found herself in (although certainly not graphic by any means, we get a very good feel for what she has to endure as a prostitute). I liked Rebekah and Ben's relationship, and Mason, the reverend and Anthony Wayne were interesting side characters. None of them were one dimensional (without giving anything away, some characters surprised me). When God and religion did come up (after all, it's retelling a biblical story), it felt very natural for the time period and the characters. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in American Revolutionary War historical fiction.
Boy, was I wrong! This is just great historical fiction. I never would have guessed this was Christian lit (which may be a drawback for some but perhaps a plus for others). I felt terrible for the situation Rebekah found herself in (although certainly not graphic by any means, we get a very good feel for what she has to endure as a prostitute). I liked Rebekah and Ben's relationship, and Mason, the reverend and Anthony Wayne were interesting side characters. None of them were one dimensional (without giving anything away, some characters surprised me). When God and religion did come up (after all, it's retelling a biblical story), it felt very natural for the time period and the characters. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in American Revolutionary War historical fiction.
February 25, 2025
The Scarlet Ribbon is a Revolutionary War re-telling of the story of Rahab, which is an interesting blend of stories. I thought that the author did a great job of bringing to life the historical time period and the battle for Stony Point, one that I didn't know a lot about when I started the story. My heart broke for Rebekah, since her circumstances left her to turn to prostitution to earn a living during the Revolutionary War. The story doesn't shy away from the horrible situation some women found themselves in back then, though it also handles it tastefully and doesn't give details. I would recommend this story for young adults and adults but won't let my daughter read it until she is much older.
This story has a beautiful message of redemption.
I received this book from the publisher. This is my honest review.
This story has a beautiful message of redemption.
I received this book from the publisher. This is my honest review.
March 28, 2025
This was a wonderful retelling of the biblical story of Rahab. It is set during the revolutionary time period, and you can tell as you read that the history was very well-researched. I really enjoyed learning more about the culture of the time while reading this book. I also appreciated the aspects of faith included throughout. There was a statement or two that I didn't agree with, but overall, it was encouraging. I liked how the author presented Rebekah's occupation (prostitution) in a sensitive but realistic way. There was nothing inappropriate. I felt like the whole thing was very carefully written, and it came across beautifully. The romance did seem to take a back seat to Rebekah's journey and the history, but I found that I didn't mind too much to give up on it. This was my first read by this author, and I would be willing to try more stories by her.
February 25, 2025
An inspiring story! Author Naomi Stephens has crafted a beautifully redemptive tale in the spirit of the woman Rahab from the Biblical Book of Joshua; a fallen woman long steeped in shame who finds herself caught between two men, a Patriot and a British soldier, and their equally opposing worlds amid the rages of the American Revolution. As the flames of war rise, will she take a chance on a love that tantalizes her with the promise of a new life and forgiveness...or cling to the familiar, desolate existence she feels she deserves? This is a story that will touch the hearts of any who feel they are beyond God’s saving grace; and reassure that His Mercy always makes a way where there is no way.
February 20, 2025
The Scarlet Ribbon is a retelling of the story of Rahab from Jericho set during the American Revolution. The first chapter really grips you, the characters are engaging and if you enjoy stories set in that time period you will really enjoy it.
Follow the story of Rebecca, Ben, and Mason in this intriguing tale that was inspired by the fall of Jericho and the Battle of Stony Point.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Follow the story of Rebecca, Ben, and Mason in this intriguing tale that was inspired by the fall of Jericho and the Battle of Stony Point.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
March 4, 2025
What a wonderful, impeccably researched novel. I loved Rebekah and Ben’s relationship, the constant push and pull. The stakes had me giddy and the themes of right and wrong, freedom or loyalty, resentment or forgiveness were well fleshed out.
November 9, 2025
Didn't dislike it. Didn't love it. A story of Christian redemption. I liked how it took place during a real period of time during US history but wasn't overly unbelievable. Characters were developed enough to want to finish their stories.
March 16, 2025
Great book! Loved the main characters!
started-but-abandoned
June 5, 2025Try as a book
December 17, 2025
Was a 3.5 that I rounded down. Some of it was very good but other parts were boring. Not her best.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2025
In the time of Revolutionary War, Rebekah is a fallen woman attempting to survive. For the last four years she has “entertained” men after being tossed out by her father for giving birth to a child out of wedlock. She dared to believe a soldier who promised to return for her but did not.
The British have control of the nearby fort. A Patriot spy named Benjamin drops literally into her lap, injured and in need of assistance as he has been shot. Later he enlists her help for the cause which she does and hopes she won’t be apprehended.
The father of her child returns as he is stationed at the fort with the British. Rebekah wonders if he will save her for his own despite her status and does she want him to anymore? Meanwhile she and Ben have drawn closer in their shared exploits. Ben knows of confidential orders for an attack and he wants to do his part and save Rebekah.
The British have control of the nearby fort. A Patriot spy named Benjamin drops literally into her lap, injured and in need of assistance as he has been shot. Later he enlists her help for the cause which she does and hopes she won’t be apprehended.
The father of her child returns as he is stationed at the fort with the British. Rebekah wonders if he will save her for his own despite her status and does she want him to anymore? Meanwhile she and Ben have drawn closer in their shared exploits. Ben knows of confidential orders for an attack and he wants to do his part and save Rebekah.
February 24, 2025
The Scarlet Ribbon by Naomi Stephens was a great discovery.
It was the first book I read by this author and I will look for others now that I saw how well she writes.
Her characters are well described and developped while the story unfolds.
I really enjoyed how we change points of view and that we can follow different charactrers at the same time.
-- I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone. --
It was the first book I read by this author and I will look for others now that I saw how well she writes.
Her characters are well described and developped while the story unfolds.
I really enjoyed how we change points of view and that we can follow different charactrers at the same time.
-- I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone. --
May 3, 2025
Having written a character in my own Revolutionary War novel that goes through the ordeal of prostitution during wartime and finds herself caught between opposing sides during the conflict, I appreciated the emotionally raw, sobering, yet generally tasteful manner in which this topic is handled. The main character suffers for past mistakes in an environment that lacks mercy, and she can only dream of one day being redeemed by the man who left her with child and vanished from her life. Ultimately, a very different character comes to fill the vacuum, dealing with trauma of his own in a war that pits father against son. I admit I quite appreciated his father, the Loyalist preacher who sacrificed his life for his beliefs, and wish he got more screentime in the book, as well as his sister's rather fun British dandy beau who I kept expecting to show back up (and he did...but for only half a minute lol. I am grateful he wasn't killed off, though). I wondered at various intervals if Ben was based in part off of Benjamin Tallmadge, whose own father was a cleric, though of a decidedly Whig bend. I appreciated the inclusion of another cleric in the story, whose speech to Ben about spiritual matters transcending temporal ones highlights how, even if his particular side in the conflict wins out, the revolutionary cause will not bring about Utopia. Even as they struggle to survive their fraught circumstances, in an ironic mirroring of some aspects of the Rahab narrative in the scriptures, the most important thing is for both tortured characters to find a much higher form of redemption. All in all, I appreciated the author's Christian approach to this slice of history and the way she showed empathy for the various characters involved. Oh, and extra points for her depiction of Mad Anthony Wayne. Such an awesomely colorful character!
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