| Title | : | Isaiah's Daughter (Prophets and Kings, #1) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 0735290253 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9780735290259 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 384 |
| Publication | : | First published January 16, 2018 |
| Awards | : | Christy Award Historical (2018) |
Isaiah adopts Ishma, giving her a new name--Zibah, delight of the Lord--thereby ensuring her royal pedigree. Ishma came to the prophet's home, devastated after watching her family destroyed and living as a captive. But as the years pass, Zibah's lively spirit wins Prince Hezekiah's favor, a boy determined to rebuild the kingdom his father has nearly destroyed. But loving this man will awake in her all the fears and pain of her past and she must turn to the only One who can give life, calm her fears, and deliver a nation.
Isaiah's Daughter (Prophets and Kings, #1) Reviews
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I am so glad that Mesu Andrews felt it impressed upon her heart to write this story. Honestly, I had never taken the time to envision or imagine what life must have been like for Isaiah as he passed along God’s prophecies. Likewise, I hadn’t thought about what it would have been like for the wife of King Hezekiah, nor Hezekiah himself, the king sandwiched between a father who was a bad king and a son who was even worse. But who was the woman behind the throne? This is the story that Andrews tackles in the character of Ishma, who the reader first meets as a child and Israelite captive. With impeccable research and a plausible fact-meets-fiction tale, Ishma, later named Hephzibah, lives and breathes within the pages of this book.
This story evoked many emotions for me while I read – from the love between families, the tension from the peril of palace life, to a tender romance that spans years and undergoes immense heartache, I felt deeply for these characters. I enjoyed Hephzibah’s first-person narration. Because I got to meet her as a child, I felt extremely invested in her character. The parts of the story that were from Isaiah’s and Hezekiah’s perspectives add depth to the story and give a more complete picture of everything that was happening in and around Hephzibah’s life. The narrative has a very epic quality, as the reader gets to follow along with the same group of characters over many years. I truly felt like I learned a lot while I was reading, but I never felt any information overload, rather everything is experienced along with the characters in an authentic way.
What impacted me most was the daunting task of coming away from the level of depravity that had been reached under King Ahaz’s reign, especially the terrible practice of child sacrifice to appease the God’s, and how prophets like Isaiah and Micah had to deliver the messages of God regardless of whether they were well-received or not. Even good King Hezekiah grew weary and angry over Isaiah’s prophecies, and he was a king trying to obey and worship God. I appreciate books like this because it adds a human element that I sometimes forget to consider when I’m reading scripture, reminding me that it is applicable today. Most importantly, I am drawn back to scripture and given more to consider as I revisit the words of Isaiah. I look forward to the next Prophets and Kings novel!
I received an advanced copy of this novel, which I chose to review; the opinions expressed here are my own. -
This remarkable book is epic in the proportions of history and prophecy that are included in Hephzibah(Ishma) and King Hezekiah's story. Although this is biblical fiction, I feel that the author has opened my eyes to the world of the Israelites, to the worship of false gods and the human sacrifice made to these pagan gods. In this world of darkness, God has sent His prophets to lead His people back to Him. Though these prophets were obeying God as they delivered His Word, many of these prophecies were not well received. This is a love story, but most of all it is the story of finding peace by placing our full trust in God. I found Zibah to be a truly remarkable young woman, one whose heart was tender to God, yet strong in spirit to withstand the many trials that life brought. As with all of Mesu Andrews' books, I hope to find deeper meaning as I revisit the prophecies of Isaiah. She truly has a gift in bringing the Old Testament to life and making the lessons learned in her stories relevant to today.
A couple of my favorite quotes:
" Prophecy is given so we can watch God's power unfold."- Mesu Andrews
" We must keep our eyes on eternity, for today is sometimes more than we can bear."- Mesu Andrews
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own. -
Wow. I don't have sufficient words for this story. It was perfect, beautiful, deeply inspiring in every way. Mesu has a way of bringing her characters to life in a way I've seen few other biblical fiction authors do. She's quickly become a new favorite author!
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A beautiful blend of Fiction and Facts to create a moving tribute to Hezekiah. The story is told through the point of view of Ishma, a Fictional character. Through Ishma's eyes readers experience life in 732 BC Judah. I especially enjoyed the reference to birds throughout the novel to illustrate Ishma's feelings.
The story is told over the span of many years allowing readers to see the character growth of Hezekiah, Ishma and others. A favorite Fictional character in the novel was Yaira. She was Ishma's caregiver and had such a servant's heart.
Another well done Biblical Fiction novel by Mesu Andrews. My gratitude to publisher Waterbrook for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own. -
I have to give this one 5 stars because I am in awe of Mesu’s ability to make these characters come to life and set them to living and breathing on the page! Plus, my Bible-fiction-loving student reader has given this two thumbs way up as well :) Grab a copy today.
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EXCELLENT READ!
Epic drama, adventure, love, treachery—Isaiah’s Daughter is all of that and more in this latest stellar novel by Mesu Andrews. The author brings to life Judah’s queen, the lovely Hephzibah, infusing each page with heart-stopping emotion and a pure, romantic love for her friend and king, Hezekiah, that touched my soul. When I finished reading, I could only marvel at the novel’s depth and breadth, and how Andrews portrayed this daughter of a prophet rising to the greatness of God’s promise, resilient in a time of disobedience. When keeping faith with Yahweh amidst war and death and pestilence might be the only means to survive. A thoroughly catch-your-breath kind of experience in an impressive body of work, Isaiah’s Daughter is a story fans of Biblical fiction will love! -
Hold on just one moment, please. *Reflects* Ahem. Okay. Now, I can review this book. This book. What can say about this poignant, stunning novel of epic proportions? I can tell you that this book will pull you in and twist you up inside, as you get to know Hephzibah, or Ishma as she's first known. The pages within this book come to life, the characters moving before you like you are really there, learning of Isaiah, Hephzibah,Yaira,Hezekiah and all the happenings of Jerusalem.
Seeing all that young Ishma went through, really tugged at my heart. Watching her grow with Hezekiah was an experience I won't soon forget. I felt all of Zibah's feelings, all her pain and love for the Father. I cried when Isaiah and his wife adopted Zibah, I cried when Hezekiah and Zibah fell in love, I cried when I reached the end of this amazing novel.
This book is a book of true love. Of sacrificial love. Of a love that will never end, both within family, even if it's not blood family, and the never ending love of our amazing Father above. This story is utterly heartbreaking, yet it's heart-reviving. It is rich in detail, it is throroughly researched, and it's stitched perfectly together like that of a beautiful handmade quilt.
Ms. Andrews has gone beyond 5 stars with this book. This book is so much more than just that. If you want a book that will carry you away to a land, and a time, that we've only read about in the Bible and imagined with our minds and hearts, then this is a book for you. If you want a book that steals your mind, and soul long after you've shut the book, then this is for you. If you want a book that will leave you contemplating all you've learned in Bible study, then please, look no further than the first book in a Biblical series that is sure to be a best seller.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.* -
Obvious intensive research brought to life this epic book about Hephzibah, the daughter of the prophet Isaiah in the Bible. Both Isaiah and his wife were listed as prophets in the Bible. Hephzibah was the wife of King Hezekiah, Judah's most righteous King, Hezekiah's father, Ahaz, was a wicked King and an idolator; and Hezekiah's son, Manasseh, was even more wicked. Although Biblical fiction has to fill in the bits and pieces to create a storyline, Andrews drew as much as possible from the Bible and historical research to create a realistic and believable story that does not depart from God's word.
I loved that the story was told from the point of view of Ishma (aka Hephzibah) from her early childhood through the death of King Hezekiah. From barbaric torture by the Assyrians to an incredible belief in Yahweh, Hephzibah lives a life that is filled with highs and lows. Her story brings to life the kingdom of Judah which helped me understand much better the sections of the Bible dealing with the rise and fall of King Ahaz and King Hezekiah as well as the life and culture of this time period. I am sure returning to read these portions of the Bible will make them much more understandable.
Definitely Biblical fiction at it finest.
**I received a complimentary copy from Waterbrook Publishing through NetGalleyt to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review. -
This added a new depth of perspective to yet another biblical story. I found this story -for the most part- quite enjoyable. However, I enjoyed the first half far more than the second.
In the first part of the story, it focuses on Zibah and Hezi's friendship as it develops over the years.
What I didn't enjoy as much was the second half. Maybe it's because of my age or maybe it was just because. The pacing was a lot slower and my interest faltered a number of times. One thing that was well-done in the second half was the portrayal of marriage. It does not have butterflies and rainbows but instead shows that there are difficulties to work out.
Another aspect of the book that was great was the historical research. Verses from the Bible are at the beginning of each chapter, explaining the events that happen.
Despite the fact that some parts weren't my favorite, I am still looking forward to the release of the next book this year.
Rating: 4 Stars
Content: 2.5 Stars
*I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. All views expressed are my own and a positive review was not required. -
This is a reread for me and so glad I fit it in by this year end. The story of King Hezekiah from the Bible. The King that brought God back to his nation. The story focuses on his wife Zibah and how she came to become the King best friend as they grew up. She was adopted by Isaiah and its the story of the King and her love affair throughout most of his rule. It is a beautiful story of love and commitment to God and each other. I fell in love with this couple and their lives together. I highly recommend this story for all those who is in love with Bible history. A beautiful story of love of God and love of family and each other. What a wonderful book!!
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Wooow what a book. It was such a long journey reading the life of Hezekiah and Hephzibah unfold.
God promises are certain, He will go to any length to keep his own safe in order to fulfill the promises. -
Wow, what an absolutely beautiful and captivating story! I was just utterly engaged the moment I started it right until the very end page. It was so very good.
Ishma and Hezi's relationship from the very beginning was just the most endearing thing ever. It was so sweet how they bonded and grew so close.
The characters were all really amazing, and so believable, so three-dimensional. You didn't just read about their trials and joys, you felt them with the characters. The heartbreak, the pain, and the beautiful healing.
I absolutely loved how Ishma's name changed to Hephzibah, and that whole theme throughout the book with her new name meaning 'God's delight'. What a beautiful reminder for all of us!! We are the Lord's delight. I love that. Her journey was so poignant - so touching.
"Isaiah's Daughter" is a remarkable look into the prophesies of Isaiah, and how they might have interpreted them in their own time.
Author Mesu Andrews can take what might be normally seen as 'heavy history' and weave it into a compelling tale that is not only very understandable, but completely enjoyable and enlightening. This is one reason why I love Biblical Fiction so much. It really gives depth to the Bible accounts that are familiar, but sometimes less understood.
This book is so full that trying to write a review that would give it justice seems rather impossible. But I definitely recommend this beautiful story, and look forward to losing myself in its pages again!
I thought "Miriam" was my favourite book by Mesu Andrews, but now I'm thinking "Isaiah's Daughter" tops the list! -
We must believe in Yahweh's best and let His plan unfold.
I'm so glad I read this book. Usually I shy away from the Biblical Fiction genre, but not this time, and I'm so glad. I recently finished reading through the Kings and Chronicles books of the Bible and they had come alive in a whole new way for me. Reading this book brought me to view the real-life characters as never before, and sparked an interest that will last long after the Judean dust has settled from my fast-paced page turning. They were real, they were human, and their story spoke to my heart where needed at the end of an Ishma kind of year. I'm praising God for the reminder of His love for me, and wiping away a few tears as I close this beautiful book - shutting that beloved squeaky gate for the final time - with bittersweet satisfaction, and heartfelt thanks to the author for allowing God to use her talents as a writer.
It's hard to trust God when reality drains our hope, but God must be our hope for a new reality. -
Interesting, but for a Biblical retelling? There were historical events from the Bible, but the license taken mostly with the main character, Hephzibah was just too much. If she hadn't been a biblical character, it might have worked for me.
Hephzibah (King Hezekia's wife) is only mentioned once in the whole Bible and it was only to say that she was the mother of their son Manasseh. That's it, period. To make her out to be an adopted daughter of the prophet Isaiah, and that she was a godly woman keeping to all the tenets of the faith, was a stretch.
Sadly, I just wasn't as enamored with this as I have with other retellings. -
This book was so amazing!!!
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This was such a beautiful story of King Hezekiah. I came to learn more about him in Lynn Austen’s Chronicles of the King (yes - I’ve read about him in the Bible, but her books was the first to make me realise how different he was to his father and the kings after him).
The Bible says there was no other righteous king than King Hezekiah and this story from Mesu Andrews just again confirmed this and made me love him more. The love story between him and Zibah was so beautifully written and displayed. And I just enjoyed all the prophecies from Isaiah and how it was challenging in that time to try and understand it.
Even though you know how this story will end, I still found myself flipping thought the pages due to the amazing story and beautifully crafted words delivered by Mesu. She is fast becoming my favourite Biblical fiction writer.
Highly recommended to fans of Biblical fiction! -
Though I was already familiar with Isaiah and Hezekiah, this work of fiction helped me see them as real people. Crazy how fiction can do that!
This book had me discussing these biblical characters with my family, and now I want to dig into the biblical account again. Which is exactly what great biblical fiction should do!
This story spans decades! Which is something that I don't find much in fiction! You journey with Isaiah, Ishma/Zibah and Hezi, you see their struggle and their triumphs!
This author's writing style is different than what I normally read. I am used to becoming imersed in one or two characters for a short period of time. I didn't feel quite as drawn into the characters as I felt drawn into the journey of faith. Which isn't a negative, it's just a different way of story telling!
I loved the message of how our obedience to God is vital for our relationship to thrive and how He is to be our refuge no matter what.
I really appreciated the way the author wrote about how people in these times would have viewed or received prophecy. It is a richly detailed historical epic with a message that leaves you with a sense of wonder at how God works in our lives.
I received a free copy of this book through the justreads tour company. All opinions about the book are my honest thoughts. -
3.5 stars. Confusing at times with names of people and places. And extra information added to its length. But a beautiful story of faith.
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I enjoyed this Biblical fiction. I read along with my Chronological Bible detailing the story of Hezekiah.
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I have recently come to truly appreciate the genre of Biblical historical fiction. It brings the Bible alive and helps me to better appreciate the stories and their context in history. Mesu Andrews is an amazing author in that category. While most will write about fictional characters and place them in Biblically historical events and bring the Bible alive that way, Ms. Andrews makes the bolder choice in choosing actual Bible characters - which requires a greater depth of research and a stronger need to stay true to the Biblical narrative. She does this beautifully. While this book centers primarily on the life of Hephzibah, about whom little is known - she was the wife of King Hezekiah, mother of King Manasseh, the book also focuses heavily on Hezekiah and Isaiah, who have a larger story in Bible history. This book made me want to go back to my Bible time and again to confirm the accuracy of the narrative. One other thing I really appreciated - Ms. Andrews laid out a listing of characters at the beginning, noting who was fictional and who is actually listed in the Bible. It helps to know what pieces are fact and what pieces are fiction. Also, the scripture at the beginning of each chapter was helpful for context and accuracy.
This tale was very well-written, the characters likeable and easy to relate to. Even though I knew some of the things that would be happening due to being familiar with the Bible, I still wondered at times how the author was going to bring about the circumstances to get to that point. Things that I had not considered that this book brought to light - how all of the prophecies Isaiah had about the Messiah - he didn't realize that he wouldn't see those happen - or who they were about. Some of his conclusions in the book were very easy to see, but looking back from present day, we know they were about Jesus instead. I loved how the Bible brought the humanity to Isaiah (all we have are his prophecies) and brought to life his family and Judah's kings (King Ahaz is prominent in the first portion of the book). This book was enjoyable to its core, and spiritually moving. I loved the faith journey that Hephzibah and Hezekiah took and at the end of the book when Manasseh was born from that faith, I have to question how he became the most wicked king in Judah's history. I'm hopeful that the author continues in this series and helps fill in that gap!
I have given this book 5 stars due to the historical accuracy, in-depth characters, spiritual depth, and enjoyable story-line. I was given a free advance copy of this book. The opinions in this review are my own. -
Isaiah's Daughter by Mesu Andrews is a Biblical story of a warring divided nation ruled by an evil king who mocks King David's legacy and leaves those faithful to Yahweh praying and clinging to Him. Affected by the war, Ishma, meaning desolation, is an orphaned Hebrew girl who is also a refugee after the war between Judah and Israel. Ishma comes to Isaiah's home as a household servant but is treated with love as a family member. She comes as a child who is full of fear and anxiety after watching the horrors of war take her parents. Yet, in a short time, she becomes friends with Prince Hezekiah. Through the years, they both grow and mature, and continue to love and serve Yahweh. Isaiah and Aya guide Ishma as she grows and matures, then adopt her, giving her a royal lineage fit for a king and change her name, as Yahweh instructs, to Hephzibah, meaning delight of the Lord.
Andrews has a gift for helping readers better understand the Old Testament Bible stories and the culture in those times. She certainly brought this story alive for me through this novel that is based on the Bible but with some fictionalized characters where the Bible doesn't give details. Isaiah's Daughter is full of adventure and romance. Hephzibah is a woman who has had the courage to face her fears and grow through them, all the while learning to lean on Yahweh throughout her life. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and had a hard time putting the book down. It is my first book by Andrews, but it won't be my last. Isaiah's Daughter is also the first book in her new series, Prophets and Kings. I highly recommend it.
I received this book from Waterbrook Mulnomah. I was not required to write a positive review in exchange for the book. -
It has been a long wait for this novel, but having just finished this enthralling read, I can say with absolute certainty that it was worth every minute of the wait. The world of 8th Century BC Judah really comes to life in this novel, which spans almost forty years of Judah’s history during the reigns of King Ahaz and then King Hezekiah. More than that, Scripture really comes to life, and I don’t just mean in the sense that it puts flesh on the bones of the historical accounts of Kings and Chronicles. Prophecy becomes a living, breathing Word from God, and it was exciting to see these characters grappling with its meaning and application in its original context.
The story begins its narrative when Ishma and Hezekiah are still children and follows their friendship from its beginning—as two young children deeply impacted by trauma—throughout their education under Master Isaiah, and into the joys, fears, and challenges of their reign as King and Queen of Judah. They took up residence in my heart very early on in the story, and I loved the depth and richness of their friendship (and later their marriage)—the way they understood, supported, sharpened, and loved one another. Although, that’s not to say they didn’t have their rough patches!
But it’s Mesu Andrews’ spiritual and political acumen and her understanding of human nature that really gives this novel its vibrancy. I am just in awe at her ability to not only bring characters to life on the page, but also the world they live in. This is must-read Biblical fiction!
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion. -
“Whips Cracked. Soliders Shouted. My Feet Blistered In A Sunbaked Wildnerness. We Kept Walking and Walking” How many times do we at certain points in our life feel like we are in the wildnerness, but by the grace of God He is always with us! Isaiah’s Daughter is a well written book that brings the bible to life in a different way. This was Mesu’s first book that I read and have already added the auther to my “To Be Read Pile.” I normally do not read bibical fiction, but I now have a deeper understanding of the struggles that they faced each day. I loved all the prophecies that were mentioned and how each characted applied them to everyday living and how they apply to today. The word of God flowing like water.
At the start of each chapter the author starts with scripture from the Old Testament. Even though the book is a work of bibical fiction, the characters faced some of the same hurdles we have today and a reminder that our Heavenly Father is a loving and forgiving God regardless of the situation. I highly recommend Isaiah’s daughter.
I recieved this book from the Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for an honest opinion. -
There were times I had to put this book down as the realities were almost to much for me. The truths that were expressed needed to be pondered. Ideas were given that I hadn't considered before but made total sense.
Ishma was an orphan Judean girl that was captured by renegade Israelite soldiers. When she was rescued she was given to the prophet Isaiah for him and his family to take care of. Ishma was introduced to Prince Hezekiah in the hopes that both would benefit from the others friendship. Hezekiah was traumatised by his older brother's death when their father offered him to the god Molech. As the children grew older their friendship developed into something more.
Yahweh changes Ishma's name which meant Desolation to Hephzibah which meant The Delight of the Lord. Isaiah adopts her and now as a daughter of the royal family she is eligible to marry Hezekiah who is now the king.
Life is full of challenges. Even dedicated followers of Yahweh make mistakes. The Law of God isn't always easy to follow. Prophecies are hard to understand. Faith is tested. Life is very, very real but through it all Yahweh is faithful. He blesses those who seek Him with a pure heart. -
Wonderful, thought provoking Biblical fiction that should be shared. Mesu Andrews has crafted a poignant story that will remain with you long after you finish. The characters and their lives generate lessons that are relatable. Isaiah's Daughter is well researched and rich with scripture and history. I just had to keep reading. This book definetly lends itself to group discussion and it should also be shared with young readers. Andrews has written several other Biblical fiction books which I hope to read. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
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How can one recover from this book?
This is one of the most power messages to the girl child of our time. I am not sure that was what Mesu had in her mind when writing but if i could i would buy it for every young girl I know.
Wonderful book filled with God's love for His power, His sorrow when they go astray and His provision for their return. I go to meet some kings of Israel in this book, got a peak into their hearts, what made them turn to God and what made them turn away. You'd fall in love with Isaiah's daughter. -
I raced through this book. Then, I didn't want to finish it!
Mesu Andrews is a favored author and this book does not disappoint. It's engaging from the start, beautifully written, and keeps you guessing. Mesu keeps it real with characters that are larger than life. You feel like you know a king, a prophet and the women who fill the pages of this book. You won't want the story to end!
(I did have an advance reader copy for review.) -
I loved this. Mesu Andrews has once again made the pages the pages of Biblical history come alive.
I have recommended this to friends, and will continue to do so. -
While reading Mesu Andrews’s new release, I hurt and fell in love with a little girl named Ishma. As that girl struggles with her fears of soldiers and of being alone, forges a friendship with a boy who will one day become king, and discovers a new family with the prophet Isaiah, I got to visit Old Testament Jerusalem for a time.
Isaiah’s Daughter takes a handful of Scripture verses and gives readers a more rounded (fictional) account of the life these people lived. It’s a reminder that King Hezekiah, Queen Hephzibah, and Isaiah all lived lives outside of the few details recorded.
Andrews paints a vivid picture of the struggles, fears, and joys of life almost seven hundred years before the birth of the promised king Isaiah himself prophecies about.
One thing I love when I do read Biblical fiction is that it always drives me back to God’s word, ready to devour those stories with new eyes. It also reminds me how privileged I am to live in a time when God’s prophecies have been fulfilled, a time when I can rest in the sacrifice God’s son made for all of us while the characters in these books only glimpse a whisper of the truth.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
