Woman of Clay by Linda Caddick

Woman of Clay Reviews

• 
  Linda Caddick

  What was it really like for a woman to live in 1st century Israel and meet the Jewish Messiah face-to-face? Did women in those days struggle with the same issues we do today?
  
  This story invites you along those old dusty roads, to journey with a young woman as she searches for love and meaning to life. Share her heart as she transitions from self-willed impulsiveness with serious consequences, to learning what it means to choose God's will above all else.
  
  Whilst the novel must be categorized as Biblical fiction, it is definitely not what you would expect. Rather, it has a modern theme positioned in an historical setting, with the effect of drawing the past into our present.
  
  A reader's comment sums it up well: "This captivating story propels you into a world you keep longing to return to. It's like taking a holiday - you don't want it to end."
• 
  Patricia Kemp Blackmon

  Shushana is sixteen and very aware of the role of a woman. The man is to be obeyed without question. She just has to much stirring inside her like a storm ready to let loose. Her father has told a young man by the Raphael that he can take Shushana as his wife. This should not have been a surprise because they have been best friends since they were small children. But Shushana rebelled and refused to marry Raphael because she thought of him more like a brother.
  
  Her parents sent her away to her help with household duties for her cousin and aunt in hopes that Shana would mature some and change her mind about the marriage. But who knew she had a major crush on her married cousin. These feelings will end up changing her life forever.
  
  She seeks out the rabbi, the one that calls himself the Messiah. She wants to see him and hear with her own ears what he is telling everyone.
  
  She comes to the realization that she must loose herself in order to find herself. Will Shana follow her will or God's will?
  
  This story warmed my heart and gave me the feeling of being right there with Shana when she saw the Messiah for the first time. The author wrote her interpretation of events from the bible! Even though it was her fictional account it also had some historical biblical facts.
  
  I highly recommend this book.
  
  I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
  
  Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from the author for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. It is my honest opinion.
  
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• 
  Diana

  Interesting read, set in the time of Jesus's preaching, the author has painted a picture so well you can see the story play in your mind as if you were watching a movie. Along the way you meet people from the Bible like Ruth and Naomi but this centers on a young girl who has feelings and rebelliousness much as young girls today. This books takes us on her journey and provides some insight to what it might have been like during the time when Jesus was preaching. This book is unique, I have never read anything like it. It is very well written, not a preachy sort of religious fiction, nor totally a historical fiction. It's just a good story of a young woman's journey. I received a copy of this book for my honest review. This is one I am glad I did not miss!
• 
  N.M.

  In first century Israel, Shushana lives a quiet life but her inner spirit rages against the outside. Her rebellion against her father brings her to live with her aunt and cousin, and begins her descent into an abyss where she finds no hope. The words and miracles of a mysterious rabbi know as the Teacher and Master speak to Shushana's soul, and in him she begins to find the peace, love, and forgiveness she has longed for.
  
  While technically this is a Biblical or historical fiction novel, it was written as though it could just as easily been set in modern times. This fact makes "Woman of Clay" such a relevant novel to people today. Caddick clearly did some research for this novel, especially when it comes to the events and goings-on during the time of Jesus' ministry. I'm known to be overly critical of historical fiction, especially Biblical fiction, as it's my degree, so a few of these next comments will be completely due to that, and not necessarily a reflection of what readers will see. While it's great that the novel could be translated to modern times, it was too easy to do so. The Middle East has such a distinct feel and resonance that wasn't apparent in the novel. I liked the inclusion of talking about how exactly people travelled around, because it wasn't easy. But some terms used by the characters and understandings didn't quite fit with First Century Israel. One thing that niggled at me was the names. Some were traditionally Hebrew, some were Anglicized. And then...there was a Spanish name. That absolutely threw me for a loop. If Caddick had wanted to use a name with a certain meaning, there is definitely a Hebrew name as a replacement. (Joana would be the replacement, even though there is already a character with that name. Or Matea/Mathia could work.)
  
  Other than those issues, this is actually quite a wonderful novel. It does an excellent job at showing the love and forgiveness of God, and depicts what it was like to be a follower of Christ during his last year of ministry. It's easy to see why it was seen to be so radical, and some people were taken to be fanatics. But Caddick explored that rationale well and showed how it was dealt with within the Jewish culture. It was definitely a dangerous time, not only with the Pharisees but also the Romans. I would have liked to see a bit more of an account of what it was like to live under Roman occupation, but I think what is shown is likely the extent of what would have happened. The Romans weren't too concerned with Judea, so it only makes sense that there would be little influence on the actual culture.
  
  Overall this is a lovely novel, with flawed characters who are redeemed in the end. It shows the power of love, faith, and forgiveness between each other and with God. I really loved how this wasn't a novel about Jesus, or Shushana following him. That part of her story was entwined within her quest to find herself and quench the thirst within her spirit, and Caddick did a great job showing that.
• 
  Fiona Cummings

  I hope that this is the first of many to come. An amazing read this story holds your attention and interest right to the very end. Filled with surprises, this is a book you do not want to put down – you don’t want it to end.
  
  I lived through the story telling into the heart of this book. It is as if I was living there at the time. I related so much to the main character that it was easy to envisage myself standing beside the characters being swept up into the story and carried along in a world so long ago.
  
  It is one of those books that I have read twice, and will read a third time.
  
  Woman of Clay is unique; I have never read anything like it. It is very well written.
  
  I have bought a few copies to give as gifts because I think it is a book that must be read.
  
• 
  Penny

  This was my first biblical fiction read and if this is an example of what's to come then I am hooked for life! I related so much to the main character through the twists and turns of her life, and marvelled at the new perspective I now have when reading the bible - it's like I'm right there! I liked the descriptions of surroundings as the author paints the picture of life as it must have been back then. This book will be passed on - definitely not staying on my bookshelf!
  
  
• 
  Linda Caddick

  This new edition of Woman of Clay has been vastly improved since the original verson. It's a most enjoyable read that sweeps you into a time and place you've never been before and takes you on an emotional and spiritual journey that will not be forgotten.
• 
  Elisha

  
  http://bookjunkiemom.blogspot.com/201...
• 
  Nicole

  Woman of Clay (2012) by Linda Caddick is a fantastic novel that reads as a standalone, but does have a sequel (Woman of Mettle). This book comes in all forms including eBook, and is 299 pages in length. With a full-time job and a very busy six-year old at home, this novel took me three days to read. I received a copy of this book in eBook form from the author. In no way has this influenced my opinion of the story. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. I give Woman of Clay 5 STARS. This novel is Biblical Fiction set in 1st c. Israel during Jesus’s ministry.
  
  Woman of Clay is an excellent novel. This book spoke to my soul! I found that I often had to step away from the book because it really made me think about Jesus, His ministry and purpose, and how I will react when I come face to face with Him one day. This book allowed me to take a good look at who I am as a woman of God. This introspection allowed me to see areas where I am good and strong in my faith, but it also allowed me to recognize some serious aspects within myself I need to continue to work on with God’s help and guidance. I will definitely think on this novel long after having finished it.
  
  In John 8:1-11, Jesus deals with a woman caught in adultery. I have always disliked this story because of how mean it is. There are so many injustices it’s awful. First, if this woman really was committing adultery, then by Law the man she was committing this sin with needed to be present in front of this group as well. But there is no man. Just one lone, scared, shamed girl. The Pharisees in this story did not really care about the Law. They cared about hurting Jesus. The second thing that bugs me about this moment is how the woman is treated. Like she is trash. No one cares that she’s been set up. No one cares that she is totally defenseless. They are a mob with hate-filled hearts who relish in the idea of hurting this girl and hurting Jesus. It’s horrendous. BUT JESUS…
  
  Jesus sees the truth behind everything and everyone. Nothing surprises Him. So, when this girl is thrown in front of Him and the group of very angry men call for her death, Jesus gets what’s really going on. Woman of Clay envisions this woman’s story in such a beautiful and respectful manner. What struck me the most about this novel is the moment when this woman — her name is Shoshana in the book — comes face-to-face with Jesus. Forget about what the men’s intentions were. Forget about the injustice of it all. Consider, just for a moment, what it would be like to stand next to Jesus as you are right now. The most perfect being EVER and He is looking at you. He sees into your eyes. He sees your truth — your shame, guilt, pride, anger, frustration, doubts, worries, and fears. Thinking about it makes me feel so unclean, so unworthy, but I know that what I will see in His eyes is total, perfect love just as this adulterous woman must have seen. How amazing is that?! We serve an awesome God!!! Shoshana meets Jesus and her life is never the same again. She has been completely changed just as we all are when we meet Jesus and accept Him as our Lord and Savior.
  
  The prose in Woman of Clay is so beautiful and sensuous. Not only did the sentences flow smoothly from line to line, but the imagery Caddick’s words created — I totally felt like I was in 1st century Israel with Shoshana. When she met Jesus, I was right there standing next to her and Jesus. And, it isn’t just the moments with Jesus that are so realistic. Caddick does an excellent job of accurately portraying life as a person in 1st century Israel. I could feel the caked on dust on my feet as Shoshana walked mile upon exhausting mile to get to each place she walked to. I could feel the intense muscle aches of the characters as they went about their days filled with backbreaking, arduous work. I could smell the foods as the women gathered to cook and bake their daily meals. It was truly a pleasure reading this book because I was transported back in time. Reading this book is a beautiful experience.
  
  I think Woman of Clay lends itself well to a fascinating Bible and history study. This book made me run to my Bible to study a few things a bit deeper, which should be the ultimate goal of every piece of Biblical fiction written. If you are looking for a story that will transport you back to Jesus’s time, a story that will have you looking at some New Testament stories in a whole new light, then Woman of Clay is definitely the book for you. I HIGHLY recommend this reading experience.
• 
  Renee

  First I would like to apologize to the author and publisher for taking so long to read this book - I received several emails asking about the status of my review which is not normal for me, then I will do my review.
  
  We have all done it - had a desire so strong in our hearts that we knew what we wanted had to be right for us or we have had a fleeting thought never believing it would ever come to pass and then it happened. Only we weren't prepared for the outcome or the response from people around us. The author does a great job of capturing true thoughts and actions of those closest to our personal lives.
  
  This story is about the humiliation of some of the choices we make and how those choices affect everyone around us; it is about rebuilding our lives in spite of those set on keeping us down, and it is about unconditional love, how it shows grace and how it teaches us to give grace.
  
  The author takes several biblical characters and weaves them in with fictional characters to create a setting backed by Scripture to create a believable 1st century story.
• 
  Mary

  I love Shana's story in Woman of Clay, and the beautiful conclusions she came to as she followed the teachings of Yeshua, the Messiah. She was such a turbulent character, whose own sinful actions caused her much pain and suffering, as well as the suffering of many others along her journey. She could be maddening, yet I feel that each woman reading her story could relate to her in some way. We all sin, and we all have to make peace with our sins. As believers we know we are forgiven by our Heavenly Father, but forgiving yourself is the hardest part of your own journey.
  
  Reading the Gospel story from the point of view of a young woman right in Jesus' midst was such a refreshing perspective. I can't help but feel that this was a coming of age story, but in the most painful, and yet beautiful way. I can't wait to read the continuation of Shana's story, Woman of Mettle, and I certainly hope Ms. Caddick continues to write more Biblical fiction!
• 
  Audrey

  At first I did NOT like Shana at all. She was a dissatisfied girl only interested in herself. I read impatiently wondering if she would ever come to her senses. After committing adultery she meets the Master who forgives her of her sins. She begins to change but life continued to be full of difficulties. She attempts to follow the Master's teaching and gradually learns how much better His way is. I felt this was a very realistic book. It shows the struggles a person goes through when they are determined to take their own way. It also shows that even when we repent there will still be a reaping for the seeds of sin that were sown. However, with Christ's forgiveness life can be a blessing.
• 
  Sashi Grayndler

  If you have read the Bible, you will be familiar with the story of the unnamed woman , accused of adultery,and brought before Jesus for judgement, and he says, let the one without sin, cast the first stone?
  Caddick writes a possible story for this woman. From her youth and mistakes that lead to this moment in her life, we follow her story until this moment recorded in the Bible. The characters are believable and the story is engaging and touching. Caddick has written a book faithful to Jewish people and customs of the time, and skillfully woven in the biblical accounts to intersect with this story.
• 
  Lisette

  What a great revealing of the gospel story!
  
  If you like reading reading biblical historical fiction this book will keep you captivated with the characters Life experiences. Loved that each chapter had a link to the referenced scripture. The characters really come to life you will laugh, reflect, and cry. I'm looking forward to getting a hard copy to share.
• 
  Jelvon Doran

  Marvellous!
  
  What a delightful story! It brought to life the days of Jesus Christ on earth. No character flaw has been spared. We all feature in this story, but there is no trait beyond the grasp of redemption. I thoroughly enjoyed this descriptive, thought-provoking, challenging book. Do read, it will stay with you.
• 
  Heidi Crisp

  Love this book!! I love Christian based books with great stories of everyday normal life struggles. God can turn any bad situation into a good situation if we just believe and try to do what's right. Just because we make a horrible mistake and feel like we've messed up our life doesn't mean we have, God can turn it all around and bless us unimaginable!
  
  Great book!! I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading fiction bible based stories! God is so awesome and can turn any bad situation into a blessed situation.
• 
  Sara Joseph

  Woman of Clay was an easy read. This story set at the time of Jesus gave a convincing portrayal of what it must have been like in Israel. I liked the juxtaposition of the events of great magnitude in the Biblical account with the various events and crises in Shana's life.
  Shana's story played out on the fringes of important Biblical events offered a seamless opportunity for Linda, the author, to weave in Biblical concepts and truths in a credible fictional account.
  The story was fairly straight forward - a logical playing out of the consequences of good and bad life choices. At the same time it graciously allowed for the wonderful presence of Jesus to redeem an otherwise hopeless life messed up by sin.
• 
  Sarahbeth Caplin

  Caddick's book takes place roughly 2000 years ago, but some things never change: namely, the rebelliousness of teenagers, the longing for significance, temptation and romantic desires. Those issues and more are present in the life of Shushana, a young Jewish girl living in first-century Israel, whose life coincides with the beginning of Jesus' ministry.
  
  Caddick's writing style flows well and is easy to follow, even if the language feels a bit modern at times. Her use of detail, particularly when it comes to scenery, is one of her hallmarks as a writer. Her characters are developed well, and are by no means perfect, cardboard cutouts like I've read in other Christian fiction novels. Recommended for young girls who are interested in the relevance of Scripture to their lives today.
• 
  Barbara

  A delight from start to finish, `Woman of Clay' took me on a spellbinding journey and I felt bereft when the story ended. The tightly woven plot transports the reader through the magnificent scenery of the Holy Land, back to those 'crucial' days two thousand years ago with unerring clarity. This tale of one fallible but lovable woman tells the timeless truth of God's grace.
• 
  Linda Akey

  Inspiring book
  
  I would recommend this book to anyone. I felt like I was in the villages with the people. I understood how Shana felt wanting to find the Lord and to be near him to listen to Him. I felt her frustrations and sadness. The author really
  made you feel you were part of the story and you didn't want it to end. I am looking forward to reading more of her books.
• 
  maria seilius

  Loved it .
  
  A really enjoyable read . Great characters and a look into the past to what life could have been like in the time of Jesus . I definitely feel the need to read the sequel . My only criticism is just why did the author choose to use Spanish names for some of her characters which didn't seem appropriate for this novel .