|
Anne Rightler
, March 05, 2019
(view all comments by Anne Rightler)
Of Fire and Lions is historical fiction at its finest. Mesu Andrews does a marvelous job of telling the story of a young woman who first is depicted as a Hebrew captive, finds herself an idol worshiper, and ends up the beloved wife of the prophet Daniel. Taking Biblical history and fleshing out the story, the author brings readers a thoroughly captivating read. With descriptive prose that makes the reader feel like you are right there in the scenes and realistic dialogue, the author expertly portrays the struggles and the depth of emotions of the characters and brings clarification to some of the convoluted political alliances and tells of the Babylonian captivity of the Hebrews. The development of the characters throughout the story is strong, especially Abigail as she struggles to know who she is. Was she Belili, the woman who had won the love of the Medes' chief magus or was she still Abigail, a Hebrew captive who served Yahweh only? Could her family forgive her for her secrets and lies? Would Yahweh someday include her again in His watchful care? I enjoyed the portrayal of the prophet Daniel throughout the story, not just seeing him as a man who was continually faithful to Yahweh but as a husband and father as well. He knew God was good and nothing would make him deny the One True God. With the portrayal of warfare and subsequent captivity, and corrupt kings and their thoughtless rulings, this is not a light read but it is a story that portrays a sovereign God, the LORD God Most High, who alone holds all kingdoms in His hands. It is a story of sorting out fears and failures and extending and receiving forgiveness for the same. A story of the strengthening of one's faith as one learns the truth of Yahweh's love in the midst of hardship and despair, of seeing His working of miracles in impossible situations. Lovers of Biblical historical fiction will not want to miss Of Fire and Lions.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Waterbrook Publishers and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
|