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Ruth's Redemption
Set in the 1800s, Ruth’s Redemption, is an unusual depiction of the lives of slaves and free blacks in pre-Civil War America. Bo, was educated while a slave. He was given his freedom and now owns a farm buying slaves for the sole purpose of giving them their freedom. Bo is also a man of God and widower whose life is destined to change when he meets the proud and hard-hearted slave girl, Ruth.
Ruth has known nothing but servitude and brutality since being separated from her mother at age thirteen. Purchased and sold primarily for breeding, her heart is filled with resentment and bitterness. Ruth wants no part of Bo’s Godly devotion. Yet Bo is unlike any man she’s known and her experiences with him will leave her forever changed.
A gripping slave era novel, Ruth’s Redemption is a story of love, forgiveness, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of the Nat Turner Rebellion in Tidewater, Virginia, this novel shines the light of God’s unconditional love in the darkness of a culture’s cruel socially accepted inhumanity.
Ruth has known nothing but servitude and brutality since being separated from her mother at age thirteen. Purchased and sold primarily for breeding, her heart is filled with resentment and bitterness. Ruth wants no part of Bo’s Godly devotion. Yet Bo is unlike any man she’s known and her experiences with him will leave her forever changed.
A gripping slave era novel, Ruth’s Redemption is a story of love, forgiveness, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of the Nat Turner Rebellion in Tidewater, Virginia, this novel shines the light of God’s unconditional love in the darkness of a culture’s cruel socially accepted inhumanity.
304 pages, Paperback
First published January 20, 2012
5 people are currently reading
402 people want to read
About the author
Marlene Banks
21 books31 followers Kingdom writer, word warrior and novelist is how I describe my writing journey. I am hardwired to write things that highlight Yahweh and Christ Jesus including my fiction stories. My mantra is, Christ Jesus is author and finisher of my faith and my fiction.
Although historical and romance novels are favorites of mine, I write multiple genres about all sorts of things that inspire, inform, and entertain. I have an affinity for stories depicting the African American experience in the United States. I also am starting to write more nonfiction. The one constant in my writing is to point to the Creator and Savior through human interest or experience. I'm an avid reader with a variety of other interests. If you'd like to learn more about me or my writing visit:
https://straitgatekingdom.org
https://www.pinterest.com/authormarle...
https://www.amazon.com/author/novel_lady
Although historical and romance novels are favorites of mine, I write multiple genres about all sorts of things that inspire, inform, and entertain. I have an affinity for stories depicting the African American experience in the United States. I also am starting to write more nonfiction. The one constant in my writing is to point to the Creator and Savior through human interest or experience. I'm an avid reader with a variety of other interests. If you'd like to learn more about me or my writing visit:
https://straitgatekingdom.org
https://www.pinterest.com/authormarle...
https://www.amazon.com/author/novel_lady
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 5, 2013
Ruth doesn't understand what it is to be FREE, or a free slave, especially to own other slaves when she meets Bo as her new slave owner. He was set free, and once you work to pay off your debt, he will set those slaves free too. Bo prays about who to buy and take as his ownership. This reminds me of how Jesus paid for our debt, and set us all free; such redemption that we don't even see His mercy and grace.
I also like how Nat Turner was added to this novel. The covers of the book is beautiful and defines the meaning during this age as well as title. Moreover, it also reminds you of the biblical story: Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz (happen to have the same names except Bo is Bodine) except during slavery time. Ruth at first didn't want to accept the Christian lifestyle, know about this Jesus like Bo, because they were the White man's Savior...and forced Negros into this wilderness lifestyle by being their slaves. Bo is a genuine, faithful man; Ruth is stubborn; and Naomi trying to make the connection happen between Ruth and Bo.
The writing was pretty good and kept me reading to find out more about Ruth and if Bo will give her a chance in his life, after losing his beautiful wife (which I want to know if this will be shared in the novel).
I received the books from Moody Publishers to give an honest review in return.
Adrienna Turner
Author of "God is in the Equation"
I also like how Nat Turner was added to this novel. The covers of the book is beautiful and defines the meaning during this age as well as title. Moreover, it also reminds you of the biblical story: Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz (happen to have the same names except Bo is Bodine) except during slavery time. Ruth at first didn't want to accept the Christian lifestyle, know about this Jesus like Bo, because they were the White man's Savior...and forced Negros into this wilderness lifestyle by being their slaves. Bo is a genuine, faithful man; Ruth is stubborn; and Naomi trying to make the connection happen between Ruth and Bo.
The writing was pretty good and kept me reading to find out more about Ruth and if Bo will give her a chance in his life, after losing his beautiful wife (which I want to know if this will be shared in the novel).
I received the books from Moody Publishers to give an honest review in return.
Adrienna Turner
Author of "God is in the Equation"
January 30, 2012
Sometimes reading about the mistakes of America's past can be difficult especially when it happened over 200 years ago but it doesn't minimize the impact it would have on you reading about it. Take for example the recent book I just read, Ruth's Redemption by Marlene Banks about the horrors of the slavery conditions that happened in the early 1800's. Even though the story is a fictional account it was still based on true events. This one centered around the Nat Turner Rebellion in Tidewater, Virginia and is where the story begins.
It shows how the differences in peoples mind's about slavery between those in the North and those in the deep South. The North had begun to accept that slavery should be abolished but the progress was slow in getting people to come to terms with equality among all men and women. Bodine Peace was left free when his master died and left him adequate land to begin a life for himself. He finally found that deep within himself that all along, owning slaves had been wrong. He made sure that the terms for freeing Bodine Peace was upheld by his sons. Bodine Peace, or Bo as he was called was a man of God who believed that despite how long it was taking for God to bring about justice to all men, He would eventually free them all.
Bo used his land to help other slaves become free as well. Asking that all they had to do for freedom was work off the price he had to pay for them by working on the land Mr. Maitland had given him. He would teach them a fair trade, educate them and when a year's time was up, he had legal papers drawn up to provide them their freedom. It was during this time that Bo came across a woman who called herself Ruth. He was in town to purchase slaves as he felt led by God and when Ruth's determined actions cause her owner to beat her in public, Bo felt he had God's answer.
Yet it would take time to heal the hatred in Ruth's heart towards all men and especially to heal her bitterness and resentment towards God. Ruth had been sold into slavery primarily for breeding based on her good looks which she saw as a curse from God since there wasn't anything she could do about that. So she remained determined to do whatever she could to find freedom even if that meant using her looks to her advantage.
I received Ruth's Redemption by Marlene Banks compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and really loved how well the characters of Ruth and Bo were developed by Marlene so that the reader would be immersed in their lives and could see things from their eyes, how cruel the world could be, and how not everyone believed people should be treated like livestock. This one rates a 5 out of 5 stars in my book and shows just how much God's plan will work for those who LOVE Him despite the outward circumstances.
It shows how the differences in peoples mind's about slavery between those in the North and those in the deep South. The North had begun to accept that slavery should be abolished but the progress was slow in getting people to come to terms with equality among all men and women. Bodine Peace was left free when his master died and left him adequate land to begin a life for himself. He finally found that deep within himself that all along, owning slaves had been wrong. He made sure that the terms for freeing Bodine Peace was upheld by his sons. Bodine Peace, or Bo as he was called was a man of God who believed that despite how long it was taking for God to bring about justice to all men, He would eventually free them all.
Bo used his land to help other slaves become free as well. Asking that all they had to do for freedom was work off the price he had to pay for them by working on the land Mr. Maitland had given him. He would teach them a fair trade, educate them and when a year's time was up, he had legal papers drawn up to provide them their freedom. It was during this time that Bo came across a woman who called herself Ruth. He was in town to purchase slaves as he felt led by God and when Ruth's determined actions cause her owner to beat her in public, Bo felt he had God's answer.
Yet it would take time to heal the hatred in Ruth's heart towards all men and especially to heal her bitterness and resentment towards God. Ruth had been sold into slavery primarily for breeding based on her good looks which she saw as a curse from God since there wasn't anything she could do about that. So she remained determined to do whatever she could to find freedom even if that meant using her looks to her advantage.
I received Ruth's Redemption by Marlene Banks compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and really loved how well the characters of Ruth and Bo were developed by Marlene so that the reader would be immersed in their lives and could see things from their eyes, how cruel the world could be, and how not everyone believed people should be treated like livestock. This one rates a 5 out of 5 stars in my book and shows just how much God's plan will work for those who LOVE Him despite the outward circumstances.
July 19, 2012
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Ruth's Redemption by Marlene Banks, c2012
Ruth's Redemption - By: Marlene Banks Benn
"When you come to know the Lord, it will all make sense and be more real than even living in this world is now."
--Ruth's Redemption, page 89
MY REVIEW:
So much wisdom in this book. Not comparing yourself to others. Not measuring by the memory of another. So wise. Trusting the Lord with your life. Listening and paying attention. Forgiving.
Choice of names; Ruth, Naomi, Bo, Mara - bitter. Bo buys Ruth from a slave auction to set her free. Ruth sees her freedom as bondage. She has not been loved and does not recognize what love is. Bo's life is shattered until he realizes the love he has received is what he can give. Turbulence overcome. Naomi is a strong character in the advice she gives within her losses. I really liked that the novel includes an epilogue telling what happened as the "rest of the story."
In 1820, Bodine Peace is given his freedom and a parcel of land following the Will instructions upon the death of his master. Other freed slaves live on Bo's land. As he can, he buys slaves to set them free after one year of servitude when they receive their freedom papers.
The research places the characters within historical events/happenings between 1830-1835 in Southhampton County, Virginia, and how their lives were affected resulting from slave catchers and the Nat Turner slave rebellion of 1931.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Marlene Banks resides in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In addition to being a prolific writer she has an associate degree in Theology from Rhema Bible Institute in Keysville, Virginia, and is currently pursuing studies to initiate a Christian counseling ministry. Marlene is a member of Bethel Deliverance International Church in Wyncote, Pennsylvania. Her work resume includes forty years in nursing and business.
A divine gift of storytelling with her unique voice and love of Christ creates engaging and inspirational novels. She considers her fiction writing an avenue to communicate the Gospel and Christian principles. It is also Marlene’s goal to bridge the gap between faith-based and secular literature. RUTH’S REDEMPTION is her first release and SON OF A PREACHERMAN is her second.
Thank you to Moody Publishers for this copy of Ruth's Redemption in exchange for a review in my own words; a very well-written story.
I would like to read and review Son of a Preacherman:
"A historical romance novel set in the 1920s in Tulsa, Oklahoma, depicting the segregated life of African Americans in Northern Tulsa and the tensions leading up to the Tulsa Race Riots."
Ruth's Redemption by Marlene Banks, c2012
Ruth's Redemption - By: Marlene Banks Benn
"When you come to know the Lord, it will all make sense and be more real than even living in this world is now."
--Ruth's Redemption, page 89
MY REVIEW:
So much wisdom in this book. Not comparing yourself to others. Not measuring by the memory of another. So wise. Trusting the Lord with your life. Listening and paying attention. Forgiving.
Choice of names; Ruth, Naomi, Bo, Mara - bitter. Bo buys Ruth from a slave auction to set her free. Ruth sees her freedom as bondage. She has not been loved and does not recognize what love is. Bo's life is shattered until he realizes the love he has received is what he can give. Turbulence overcome. Naomi is a strong character in the advice she gives within her losses. I really liked that the novel includes an epilogue telling what happened as the "rest of the story."
In 1820, Bodine Peace is given his freedom and a parcel of land following the Will instructions upon the death of his master. Other freed slaves live on Bo's land. As he can, he buys slaves to set them free after one year of servitude when they receive their freedom papers.
The research places the characters within historical events/happenings between 1830-1835 in Southhampton County, Virginia, and how their lives were affected resulting from slave catchers and the Nat Turner slave rebellion of 1931.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Marlene Banks resides in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In addition to being a prolific writer she has an associate degree in Theology from Rhema Bible Institute in Keysville, Virginia, and is currently pursuing studies to initiate a Christian counseling ministry. Marlene is a member of Bethel Deliverance International Church in Wyncote, Pennsylvania. Her work resume includes forty years in nursing and business.
A divine gift of storytelling with her unique voice and love of Christ creates engaging and inspirational novels. She considers her fiction writing an avenue to communicate the Gospel and Christian principles. It is also Marlene’s goal to bridge the gap between faith-based and secular literature. RUTH’S REDEMPTION is her first release and SON OF A PREACHERMAN is her second.
Thank you to Moody Publishers for this copy of Ruth's Redemption in exchange for a review in my own words; a very well-written story.
I would like to read and review Son of a Preacherman:
"A historical romance novel set in the 1920s in Tulsa, Oklahoma, depicting the segregated life of African Americans in Northern Tulsa and the tensions leading up to the Tulsa Race Riots."
March 23, 2013
I love history, especially when I have no idea that I’m learning!
Ruth’s Redemption is an engaging love story, wrapped in an accurate account of the slow, painful collapse of slavery in America in the 1830’s. By including real life characters like Nat Turner and literal geography such as Dismal Swamp, Marlene Banks pulls her readers into an unwitting tour of history.
Bo Peace knew that God had called him to work tirelessly but peacefully toward abolition. A freed black man, he returned frequently to the slave market to purchase the freedom of as many slaves as he could, one by one. On a summer morning, the Holy Spirit insisted that he purchase Ruth, despite the unreasonably high price that was demanded.
Ruth was hardened, hateful and barely grateful at first. She had been raped repeatedly in forced service as a breeding slave. She longed for death. To Ruth, freedom was a forbidden dream, one that could only be fought for and taken by force. She could not grasp Bo’s gift of physical freedom. Consequently, she refused to believe in Bo’s God, whom he insisted offered freedom from her anger, hurt and hopelessness.
Ruth’s Redemption is moderately paced, leading the reader through Bo and Ruth’s daily lives on their farm, their developing romance and Ruth’s budding faith. While the ascent toward the story’s climax seems a bit slow, it is very entertaining. Banks leads the reader through a gently rolling plot with a series of smaller, dramatic events. A few characters seem to have only peripheral rolls and melt, unnoticed into the fabric of the story.
I admire Banks’ unashamed inclusion and application of the Christian faith. She delivers clear, biblical theology addressing sin, guilt, forgiveness and salvation. This is accomplished through realistic dialogue, preventing the reader from feeling as if he has just sat through a lengthy sermon.
Ruth’s Redemption is a worthy read, but not my favorite of Banks’ novels. The blending of historical events and the fictional romantic plot line is not done as seamlessly as in her other novels. She concludes the book with a predictable happily-ever-after ending for Bo and Ruth, but a detached insert of sorts, wrapping up the narrative of Nat Turner’s slave revolt.
Freedom is the over-arching theme of this book. Freedom from slavery; freedom from sin, and how neither can be achieved or sustained without the God of the Bible.
Ruth’s Redemption is an engaging love story, wrapped in an accurate account of the slow, painful collapse of slavery in America in the 1830’s. By including real life characters like Nat Turner and literal geography such as Dismal Swamp, Marlene Banks pulls her readers into an unwitting tour of history.
Bo Peace knew that God had called him to work tirelessly but peacefully toward abolition. A freed black man, he returned frequently to the slave market to purchase the freedom of as many slaves as he could, one by one. On a summer morning, the Holy Spirit insisted that he purchase Ruth, despite the unreasonably high price that was demanded.
Ruth was hardened, hateful and barely grateful at first. She had been raped repeatedly in forced service as a breeding slave. She longed for death. To Ruth, freedom was a forbidden dream, one that could only be fought for and taken by force. She could not grasp Bo’s gift of physical freedom. Consequently, she refused to believe in Bo’s God, whom he insisted offered freedom from her anger, hurt and hopelessness.
Ruth’s Redemption is moderately paced, leading the reader through Bo and Ruth’s daily lives on their farm, their developing romance and Ruth’s budding faith. While the ascent toward the story’s climax seems a bit slow, it is very entertaining. Banks leads the reader through a gently rolling plot with a series of smaller, dramatic events. A few characters seem to have only peripheral rolls and melt, unnoticed into the fabric of the story.
I admire Banks’ unashamed inclusion and application of the Christian faith. She delivers clear, biblical theology addressing sin, guilt, forgiveness and salvation. This is accomplished through realistic dialogue, preventing the reader from feeling as if he has just sat through a lengthy sermon.
Ruth’s Redemption is a worthy read, but not my favorite of Banks’ novels. The blending of historical events and the fictional romantic plot line is not done as seamlessly as in her other novels. She concludes the book with a predictable happily-ever-after ending for Bo and Ruth, but a detached insert of sorts, wrapping up the narrative of Nat Turner’s slave revolt.
Freedom is the over-arching theme of this book. Freedom from slavery; freedom from sin, and how neither can be achieved or sustained without the God of the Bible.
March 22, 2012
Sidne's Review
Ruth Redemption is a story that places you directly into the early years of slavery. You feel the ignorance, happiness, tears, joy and hatred within the pages and your emotions are stirred moment to moment as you meet the lives of slaves, slave masters and free slaves.
While reading this novel I became upset with the blacks that told on the other slaves. I grasp while reading the thoughts of another human feeling that another human being is beneath the dirt on earth and does not deserve to live without choices. I cried while reading a mother tell about the death of her children. I was afflicted by the hideous thoughts/remarks white men said about the slave women and I laid the book down and thanked God that I was not born during the slave era.
I was most impressed with the author, Marlene Banks skills to effectively write a story that I feel will witnesses to readers soul while maintaining their interest and kindled readers thoughts.
Characters: Bo- A freed black man that loved the Lord and a man any woman would of appreciated.
Naomi - A woman that reminds you of 'Job'.
Mara - A free black woman who loved and doubted the Lord.
Ruth - A slave woman confused about God, freedom and love.
The unconditional love of God is portrayed beautifully in this heartfelt story of love, patience, heartbreaks and forgiveness during an era so shameful in our world history. I am such a book cover fanatic. this book cover caught my attention. I love its historical backdrop and the brooch of the woman gives it that delicate look that stands it out from other books on slavery. The book cover definitely relates well with the story line.
Marlene Banks is an author I would not hesitant to choose another novel. Ruth Redemption is her debut novel and it sits on my shelf as a "Deep In My Soul'' read.
Ruth Redemption is a story that places you directly into the early years of slavery. You feel the ignorance, happiness, tears, joy and hatred within the pages and your emotions are stirred moment to moment as you meet the lives of slaves, slave masters and free slaves.
While reading this novel I became upset with the blacks that told on the other slaves. I grasp while reading the thoughts of another human feeling that another human being is beneath the dirt on earth and does not deserve to live without choices. I cried while reading a mother tell about the death of her children. I was afflicted by the hideous thoughts/remarks white men said about the slave women and I laid the book down and thanked God that I was not born during the slave era.
I was most impressed with the author, Marlene Banks skills to effectively write a story that I feel will witnesses to readers soul while maintaining their interest and kindled readers thoughts.
Characters: Bo- A freed black man that loved the Lord and a man any woman would of appreciated.
Naomi - A woman that reminds you of 'Job'.
Mara - A free black woman who loved and doubted the Lord.
Ruth - A slave woman confused about God, freedom and love.
The unconditional love of God is portrayed beautifully in this heartfelt story of love, patience, heartbreaks and forgiveness during an era so shameful in our world history. I am such a book cover fanatic. this book cover caught my attention. I love its historical backdrop and the brooch of the woman gives it that delicate look that stands it out from other books on slavery. The book cover definitely relates well with the story line.
Marlene Banks is an author I would not hesitant to choose another novel. Ruth Redemption is her debut novel and it sits on my shelf as a "Deep In My Soul'' read.
April 28, 2012
I really loved this book. Ruth’s Redemption is a story that is full of adventure, love, compassion and forgiveness.
Ruth is a slave and she has had to endure some horrible things until she is bought by Bo, a free ex-slave.
Ruth’s Redemption has some elements of history to it. You will find out what happened to some slaves, what could happen to some free men and women when slave traders didn’t care about their papers. How greed can change a person and make them evil.
Ruth is searching for freedom and thinks freedom comes from not being a slave, but there are so many ways of being in bondage to many things, even to ourselves.
You will read in this book how Ruth and Bo had many ups and downs in their lives and how many of them weren’t pleasant. I really like how Bo was so close to the Lord and took all of his decisions to Him and how the Lord was always there for him. Ruth was just the opposite, she thought the Lord could end slavery and pain if He wanted to, but Ruth didn’t believe in God because He never seemed to care what happened to her.
This book is very much worth reading. I love the ending to Ruth’s Redemption. It’s a book to keep.
Thank you to Moody Publishers for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
Ruth is a slave and she has had to endure some horrible things until she is bought by Bo, a free ex-slave.
Ruth’s Redemption has some elements of history to it. You will find out what happened to some slaves, what could happen to some free men and women when slave traders didn’t care about their papers. How greed can change a person and make them evil.
Ruth is searching for freedom and thinks freedom comes from not being a slave, but there are so many ways of being in bondage to many things, even to ourselves.
You will read in this book how Ruth and Bo had many ups and downs in their lives and how many of them weren’t pleasant. I really like how Bo was so close to the Lord and took all of his decisions to Him and how the Lord was always there for him. Ruth was just the opposite, she thought the Lord could end slavery and pain if He wanted to, but Ruth didn’t believe in God because He never seemed to care what happened to her.
This book is very much worth reading. I love the ending to Ruth’s Redemption. It’s a book to keep.
Thank you to Moody Publishers for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
June 6, 2016
Short spoiler free review
A historical romance novel that is very well researched and filled with complex characters, Ruth's Redemption by Marlene Banks is a riveting historical drama, that focuses on a respectful, wholesome Christ-centered romantic relationship that blooms in the 1830's during the tumultuous times of slavery in America.
A historical romance novel that is very well researched and filled with complex characters, Ruth's Redemption by Marlene Banks is a riveting historical drama, that focuses on a respectful, wholesome Christ-centered romantic relationship that blooms in the 1830's during the tumultuous times of slavery in America.
April 8, 2013
A ex-slave Bodine Peace was given his freedom by his owner along with a large parcel of land to farm. He did not flaunt his freedom in fact after his farm became profitable he would go to the slave sales and purchase slaves in order to turn around and give them their freedom. Some moved on but some stayed to become share cropper on Bo's land. They had become a respected community of freed slaves.
Ruth was being put on the slave auction block stripped down for all to see. When a buyer decided to check out the merchandise Ruth was told to open her mouth so the buyer could examine her teeth. She boldly refused to open her mouth and the more they tried to physically force open her mouth she fought that much harder then bit down on the auctioneer's hand. This gained her a hit up side her head and a promise to be hauled off to be punished with a whip. No one would even consider bidding on her after the way she just acted. At this time Bodine Peace raised his voice and said he would buy her and he did buy for a very high price. He could have bought several slaves there freedom for what he ended up paying for her. But he could not bear to see this beautiful creature of God being abused anymore than she already had been.
When he gets back to his farm he has Naomi clean her up and care for her injuries. He could not believe the feeling he was having for this woman. His wife died several years ago during childbirth and Naomi was his wife's mother. She was like his own mother. He speaks with Naomi and tells her to find another woman Ruth can stay with because it would not be respectable for her to stay in his house.
As Ruth healed physically it was apparent she was not healing mentally or spiritually no matter how kind Naomi and Bo were to her and her needs. As hard as they tried to convince her she would have a good home staying with a freed slave by the name of Mae, but Ruth would become fearful and beg to stay in Bo's house because it felt like it was her home. After many talks with Naomi, Ruth revealed bits and pieces about her life. She was what they called a Breeder, a female slave which main purpose was to produce children and she had been abused beyond imagination since she was twelve years old.
Bo tried to keep the woman out of his head but the temptation of this beautiful woman living in the same house to him was unbearable for his soul. Why had God brought this woman into his life? Could she be the answer to his loneliness? Is it God's will to take her as his wife? She admits to not wanting to know his God because of the life she was forced to live without help from his God. Can God break through her pride and hardened heart and reveal to her the love He has for her. She can't see how God will ever free the slaves from their bondage, but Bo has great faith in the Lord our God that He will one day free His children from slavery because he had sent His Son to free mankind from sin.
The story is told from the view of freed slave and many that were not free. It shows how strong their faith and belief was in God and His will. They faith that He would give them freedom as He did for the Hebrews who were finally freed.
The author included the historical figure and event of Nat Turner and the Rebellion in Tidewater, Virginia. An uprising of slaves against the white plantation owners which killed many on both sides. The story gave me another look and lesson into history that I will gladly pass on to my children and grandchildren.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from MPNewsroom/ Moody Publisher for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. This review is my honest opinion.
If you found this review helpful vote yes or no here.
Ruth was being put on the slave auction block stripped down for all to see. When a buyer decided to check out the merchandise Ruth was told to open her mouth so the buyer could examine her teeth. She boldly refused to open her mouth and the more they tried to physically force open her mouth she fought that much harder then bit down on the auctioneer's hand. This gained her a hit up side her head and a promise to be hauled off to be punished with a whip. No one would even consider bidding on her after the way she just acted. At this time Bodine Peace raised his voice and said he would buy her and he did buy for a very high price. He could have bought several slaves there freedom for what he ended up paying for her. But he could not bear to see this beautiful creature of God being abused anymore than she already had been.
When he gets back to his farm he has Naomi clean her up and care for her injuries. He could not believe the feeling he was having for this woman. His wife died several years ago during childbirth and Naomi was his wife's mother. She was like his own mother. He speaks with Naomi and tells her to find another woman Ruth can stay with because it would not be respectable for her to stay in his house.
As Ruth healed physically it was apparent she was not healing mentally or spiritually no matter how kind Naomi and Bo were to her and her needs. As hard as they tried to convince her she would have a good home staying with a freed slave by the name of Mae, but Ruth would become fearful and beg to stay in Bo's house because it felt like it was her home. After many talks with Naomi, Ruth revealed bits and pieces about her life. She was what they called a Breeder, a female slave which main purpose was to produce children and she had been abused beyond imagination since she was twelve years old.
Bo tried to keep the woman out of his head but the temptation of this beautiful woman living in the same house to him was unbearable for his soul. Why had God brought this woman into his life? Could she be the answer to his loneliness? Is it God's will to take her as his wife? She admits to not wanting to know his God because of the life she was forced to live without help from his God. Can God break through her pride and hardened heart and reveal to her the love He has for her. She can't see how God will ever free the slaves from their bondage, but Bo has great faith in the Lord our God that He will one day free His children from slavery because he had sent His Son to free mankind from sin.
The story is told from the view of freed slave and many that were not free. It shows how strong their faith and belief was in God and His will. They faith that He would give them freedom as He did for the Hebrews who were finally freed.
The author included the historical figure and event of Nat Turner and the Rebellion in Tidewater, Virginia. An uprising of slaves against the white plantation owners which killed many on both sides. The story gave me another look and lesson into history that I will gladly pass on to my children and grandchildren.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from MPNewsroom/ Moody Publisher for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. This review is my honest opinion.
If you found this review helpful vote yes or no here.
February 22, 2012
RATING: two-and-a-half stars; didn't hate it, but couldn't find enough about it to love.
Ruth's Redemption in 140 characters or less: Free slave meets pretty slave, buys her, marries her, romance. If u like bk of Ruth, his. Christian fic, give it a shot.
Ruth's Redemption, the first novel by Marlene Banks, begins with a slave auction in Virginia. Ruth - a former breeding slave with pride - refuses to show her teeth. After she is beaten, Ruth is bought by Bo Peace, a freeman who buys his own people and set them loose after they work off their sale price. For Ruth, that time is a year.
Ruth arrives with Bo at his plantation. There, Naomi, the mother of Bo's late wife, "Baby Gal," tends to her. Ruth is to live with Mae, another slave, but she wants to stay with Bo in his house and does everything, including an impromptu marriage to him, to live there.
Ruth still yearns for her freedom whereas Bo wants someone to love. While he sets about convincing her to stay, Nat Turner visits the area. Touted as a prophet, he begins preaching a message of rebellion. Things quickly go south from there.
REVIEW: Ruth's Redemption does a few things very well. The slave dialect is impeccable, along with all of the period conventions (style of dress, societal norms, culture, etc.) against the backdrop of the famous, but ill-fated, Nat Turner slave rebellion. I easily buy into Ruth's story as a slave hardened by breeding, her brutal sexualization, themes of loss and questioning her faith in a God allowing her and her people to suffer through bondage.
The slave community of Mae, Ephraim, and Naomi is loving and dispenses no-nonsense advice. The good folks are really good and the baddies are really bad - there really isn't a gray area other than one character who harbors a terrible secret. To me, the love story is a little bumpy at first, but their quickie marriage and ensuing discomfort with one another is solved pretty quickly as they grow to love one another.
Unfortunately, that wasn't enough to drive the novel for me. I love historical fiction, but I got caught up in the language inconsistencies and the often heavy Biblical references. The educated characters have inner monologue and speech that doesn't match that of an antebellum vocabulary. Take it out of context, and it could be a modern day conversation. There are definitely high points of action - one character returns to right a previous wrong in a violent way and another walks into a deadly trap. You may or may not stick around long enough to see them.
While I expected scripture and verse to be front-and-center for a Christian fiction novel, there's a lot of preachiness to be had here. Instead of just showing Ruth how to accept God's love, Bo tells her that she should and why quite often.
I do think Banks has talent and a definitive voice. Just because this book wasn't great for me doesn't mean it won't be great for you. Happy reading!
Ruth's Redemption in 140 characters or less: Free slave meets pretty slave, buys her, marries her, romance. If u like bk of Ruth, his. Christian fic, give it a shot.
Ruth's Redemption, the first novel by Marlene Banks, begins with a slave auction in Virginia. Ruth - a former breeding slave with pride - refuses to show her teeth. After she is beaten, Ruth is bought by Bo Peace, a freeman who buys his own people and set them loose after they work off their sale price. For Ruth, that time is a year.
Ruth arrives with Bo at his plantation. There, Naomi, the mother of Bo's late wife, "Baby Gal," tends to her. Ruth is to live with Mae, another slave, but she wants to stay with Bo in his house and does everything, including an impromptu marriage to him, to live there.
Ruth still yearns for her freedom whereas Bo wants someone to love. While he sets about convincing her to stay, Nat Turner visits the area. Touted as a prophet, he begins preaching a message of rebellion. Things quickly go south from there.
REVIEW: Ruth's Redemption does a few things very well. The slave dialect is impeccable, along with all of the period conventions (style of dress, societal norms, culture, etc.) against the backdrop of the famous, but ill-fated, Nat Turner slave rebellion. I easily buy into Ruth's story as a slave hardened by breeding, her brutal sexualization, themes of loss and questioning her faith in a God allowing her and her people to suffer through bondage.
The slave community of Mae, Ephraim, and Naomi is loving and dispenses no-nonsense advice. The good folks are really good and the baddies are really bad - there really isn't a gray area other than one character who harbors a terrible secret. To me, the love story is a little bumpy at first, but their quickie marriage and ensuing discomfort with one another is solved pretty quickly as they grow to love one another.
Unfortunately, that wasn't enough to drive the novel for me. I love historical fiction, but I got caught up in the language inconsistencies and the often heavy Biblical references. The educated characters have inner monologue and speech that doesn't match that of an antebellum vocabulary. Take it out of context, and it could be a modern day conversation. There are definitely high points of action - one character returns to right a previous wrong in a violent way and another walks into a deadly trap. You may or may not stick around long enough to see them.
While I expected scripture and verse to be front-and-center for a Christian fiction novel, there's a lot of preachiness to be had here. Instead of just showing Ruth how to accept God's love, Bo tells her that she should and why quite often.
I do think Banks has talent and a definitive voice. Just because this book wasn't great for me doesn't mean it won't be great for you. Happy reading!
February 8, 2024
If you love historical fiction (especially about slavery), then Ruth's Redemption is a must read! Set in Virginia in the 1800s, this novel focuses on the love story of Bo, an educated former slave who runs a farm and is in the business of buying and freeing slaves, and Ruth, a beautiful breeder slave who Bo purchases with the intentions of freeing. But Ruth doesn't know how to be free. As a breeder slave, Ruth was taken from her mother at the young age of thirteen, and she suffered much brutality at the hands of slave masters and the male breeder slaves, which has left her feeling very resentful and with a mistrust of men. Ruth also feels shameful and unworthy of love and must learn to forgive herself for the things she had done while enslaved. As a God-fearing man, Bo teaches Ruth about God's love and forgiveness, but Ruth wonders if Bo would be able to forgive her once she reveals her darkest secret, which involves her children.
While Bo and Ruth's relationship is developing, the Nat Turner Rebellion is brewing in the background. Most slaves are not fortunate like Bo to become free and own their own prosperous farms. While Bo does as much as he can to free slaves by purchasing them at auctions, he simply cannot help them all. With slave catches lurking in the woods, life still isn't easy for Bo and the slaves he frees. Many slaves are willing to fight for their freedom. Will Bo get involved with the rebellion?
Many of us learn about slavery while in school, but the story of Ruth's Rebellion provides a look at the slaves as human beings, not just chattel. The characters in this novel reveal their desires for freedom, forgiveness, and love. Through Ruth, the reader learns how slavery affected the slaves self-worth and views on life and God. Bo has already freed Ruth from the evils of slavery, but can he free her spirit and heart?
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Moody Publishers (MP Newsroom) in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.*
While Bo and Ruth's relationship is developing, the Nat Turner Rebellion is brewing in the background. Most slaves are not fortunate like Bo to become free and own their own prosperous farms. While Bo does as much as he can to free slaves by purchasing them at auctions, he simply cannot help them all. With slave catches lurking in the woods, life still isn't easy for Bo and the slaves he frees. Many slaves are willing to fight for their freedom. Will Bo get involved with the rebellion?
Many of us learn about slavery while in school, but the story of Ruth's Rebellion provides a look at the slaves as human beings, not just chattel. The characters in this novel reveal their desires for freedom, forgiveness, and love. Through Ruth, the reader learns how slavery affected the slaves self-worth and views on life and God. Bo has already freed Ruth from the evils of slavery, but can he free her spirit and heart?
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Moody Publishers (MP Newsroom) in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.*
February 5, 2012
This is a story that is going to stay with you for a very long time. The book opens in 1830 at a Slave Auction, and with a freed slave by the name of Bo Peace. You have to wonder what a free slave might be doing at an auction, buying a slave? Yup! He buys them to set them free! Bo Loves the Lord with his whole being.
Enter poor Ruth! She has had so much happen to her in her young life, horrible things. She along with a lot of people were treated like Animals. She had been sold as a breeder...ugh! When she refuses to show her teeth, she is beaten. Bo takes pity on her and buys her.
So begins Ruth's Redemption. She has a hard time believing that she is now free, even with Bo telling her, he must want her for her body? Right? No!
You will come face to face with a lot of the injustices of Slavery, and meet some people who are willing to risk their lives to make things right. We also meet people on the other side, like Nat Turner, who wants to use killing as a way to make things right.
The story becomes a real page turner, and you can't wait to find out what happens. Love the fact that there is an epilogue, something I wish all books had!
I received this book from Moody Publishers, and was not required to give a positive review.
Enter poor Ruth! She has had so much happen to her in her young life, horrible things. She along with a lot of people were treated like Animals. She had been sold as a breeder...ugh! When she refuses to show her teeth, she is beaten. Bo takes pity on her and buys her.
So begins Ruth's Redemption. She has a hard time believing that she is now free, even with Bo telling her, he must want her for her body? Right? No!
You will come face to face with a lot of the injustices of Slavery, and meet some people who are willing to risk their lives to make things right. We also meet people on the other side, like Nat Turner, who wants to use killing as a way to make things right.
The story becomes a real page turner, and you can't wait to find out what happens. Love the fact that there is an epilogue, something I wish all books had!
I received this book from Moody Publishers, and was not required to give a positive review.
January 3, 2015
I enjoy reading about this time in history because it puts life in perspective. Slaves, and the horrors that people thought they had every right to enact. Ruth was sold as a breeder. What?! Crazy to think not just prostitution but as breeding as if livestock. That part of the story was interesting, and it's so sad how so many women were treated that way. Now the rest of the story line really disappointed me to be honest.
Bo is a "good Christian man" and buys Ruth out of slavery, but she won't leave him so he is "forced to marry her." This is where I think the storyline got a bit iffy. He wants to do good by Ruth and not pressure her. She has been abused and raped her whole life, she has no idea what a life outside of that is like and he knows that. Yet, I felt like as a reader he did just the opposite. He was kind but he still had his "manly needs".
I don't know I was just thrown off by the rest of the story because she didn't even realize what marriage meant! I do like the history and how slaves were made free and the realistic facts of what went on. I just wish the personal story line was a bit different.
Three stars.
"I received this book from MP Newsroom for free in exchange for an honest review."
Bo is a "good Christian man" and buys Ruth out of slavery, but she won't leave him so he is "forced to marry her." This is where I think the storyline got a bit iffy. He wants to do good by Ruth and not pressure her. She has been abused and raped her whole life, she has no idea what a life outside of that is like and he knows that. Yet, I felt like as a reader he did just the opposite. He was kind but he still had his "manly needs".
I don't know I was just thrown off by the rest of the story because she didn't even realize what marriage meant! I do like the history and how slaves were made free and the realistic facts of what went on. I just wish the personal story line was a bit different.
Three stars.
"I received this book from MP Newsroom for free in exchange for an honest review."
February 15, 2015
It was a good story, but I'm not too impressed. I love historical fiction, but the heavy religious theme to this book began to annoy me. There were several parts in the story where the author was just wasting time and ink with talking about the religion and stuff like that. Sometimes I just want to enjoy the story for what it is, and frankly I think the story would have been just as good without the heavy Christian tilt. It didn't have much contribution to the story, and took up a lot of time.
Also, the ending seemed to be a bit rushed. I would have liked to know more about My last criticism is that the author switched between charachers way too often. In one paragraph she'd be talking about Bo, and then in the next she'll be talking about a random characher who had just been introduced and really doesn't have much influence to the plot.
All in all, the book was a bit bland. There was a lot going on, and yet not much at all. The plot kind of spiraled in and out of control. It's not the worst book I've ever read, but it's certainly not the best.
Also, the ending seemed to be a bit rushed. I would have liked to know more about My last criticism is that the author switched between charachers way too often. In one paragraph she'd be talking about Bo, and then in the next she'll be talking about a random characher who had just been introduced and really doesn't have much influence to the plot.
All in all, the book was a bit bland. There was a lot going on, and yet not much at all. The plot kind of spiraled in and out of control. It's not the worst book I've ever read, but it's certainly not the best.
March 2, 2015
This is such a heavy subject matter, with beautiful pictures of redemption and freedom woven in, but those moments were rushed through and the story boiled down to a romance novel. Even as a romance novel, the relationship was thrown together, completely implausible throughout and zero buildup to make the reader even care if they end up together or not.
It feels like there was a really good story here, but the author wasn't brave enough to write it as a true novel like it deserved. Had she respected her talents more, I think this could have been a good classic. Instead, it is unenjoyable and forgettable.
It feels like there was a really good story here, but the author wasn't brave enough to write it as a true novel like it deserved. Had she respected her talents more, I think this could have been a good classic. Instead, it is unenjoyable and forgettable.
October 10, 2013
When I chose this book I did not know it was soo religious/faith based, I thought it was just another informative book about the hardships/history of slavery. Needless to say, that was a welcome surprise. Without this aspect of the book I don't think I would have found it as interesting. It had a nice plot but no depth to the characters. I felt more sympathy for what happened to the characters than the characters themselves. Maybe I am just still looking for the "Wow, that was a great read!" book. But a nice read.
November 9, 2013
It gave me a glimpse of how bad black slavery in the past. The author nevertheless painted real hope and faith in the Almighty God on some important characters like Naomi and Bo Peace. In the midst of unknown future and tremendous trials in life, God's hidden hands always works. We should not falter in our faith but eventhough we sometimes fail, He never will. I like the part where, Bo Peace and Ruth met and how the Lord orchestrated it all for the both of them to be husband and wife. I love this book and highly recommend it.
June 5, 2012
I enjoyed this book. It is sometimes painful simply because of the time period in which the story is set. If you don't like reading Southern dialect, this would not be a good choice. The story is loosely based on Ruth and Boaz in the Bible. Note that I said loosely. The subject matter is interesting and the story moves quickly. In all, it is a good story, especially if you like redemption and just due.
February 12, 2013
I really liked the subject matter, the characters, and the overall theme of the book. It was definitely my cup of tea. I really wish the author gave more details and spent more time developing the romance between the characters and gave more detailed descriptions of their past. Other than that, a really good read :-).
February 17, 2012
Ruth's Redemption is a full cast of characters that fill your head and heart.
I really enjoyed a deeper understanding of this particular era. I didn't know
much about the uprising. Very enjoyable read.
I really enjoyed a deeper understanding of this particular era. I didn't know
much about the uprising. Very enjoyable read.
March 17, 2012
This was a very good book. If you like to read about the lives of slaves and free men during a specific time with historical facts entwined in this novel, you will love it.
May 9, 2012
wasn't my cup of tea. I wish I would have known this was Christian fiction and I would not have read it. overall it wasn't a bad read but just not what I was expecting.
July 28, 2012
An excellent book. The first I have read by Marlene Banks.
December 26, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. A must read
December 10, 2013
Second book that I have read by Marlene Banks. I really enjoyed the book. I love the mix of history, romance, and christian living.
August 2, 2014
Historical fiction intertwine with biblical romance.
November 2, 2016
Compelling storyline but the book often veered in to being less of a story and more of a lecture.
July 10, 2013
Really believe everyone needs to read this book...great book club book too.
April 14, 2017
In essence, Ruth's Redemption is an extra-biblical parable of the interminable will and indomitable spirit of the Christian faith. Set in 1830's Virginia, Ruth's Redemption tells the tale of Ruth, born a breeding slave, and Bo, a former slave who was given his freedom. As an enslaved community, constantly struggling to cope with extreme racism, resentment, and savage lack of rights, the black characters in this book try to survive their day-to-day existence, often pondering why God would put them through such hardship.
Ruth is a woman who struggles to accept Jesus and the Lord into her heart. She has been raped and bred enough that love itself is as foreign to her as freedom. My issue with this book is that in presenting a solely extreme Christian view on matters, it ends up being rather narrow-minded in its assessment of things in the South. Nat Turner's rebellion is briefly covered here, along with the savage nature of man, but we are rather left with a 'prayer solves everything' mentality. The Lord will provide, and when he doesn't, he sends you up to eternal heaven, so no harm done.
Marlene Banks has a competent writing style, but the religious 'subtext' here, is not subtext. The Lord directly talks with characters, motivates them, and the God Machine rewards them. Bo's farm prospers more, his family endures slavery and receives freedom early, and faithful ignorance is always presented as faithful wisdom. Here, the moral and wise characters accept Christ Jesus, and the non-moral and ignorant are largely evil men. It's too much of an over-simplification for my brain, where this form of fundamentalist faith seems more likely to be an unshakable ignorance in response to fear of an indifferent universe. I have read much better books on racism and slavery.
*
Ruth is a woman who struggles to accept Jesus and the Lord into her heart. She has been raped and bred enough that love itself is as foreign to her as freedom. My issue with this book is that in presenting a solely extreme Christian view on matters, it ends up being rather narrow-minded in its assessment of things in the South. Nat Turner's rebellion is briefly covered here, along with the savage nature of man, but we are rather left with a 'prayer solves everything' mentality. The Lord will provide, and when he doesn't, he sends you up to eternal heaven, so no harm done.
Marlene Banks has a competent writing style, but the religious 'subtext' here, is not subtext. The Lord directly talks with characters, motivates them, and the God Machine rewards them. Bo's farm prospers more, his family endures slavery and receives freedom early, and faithful ignorance is always presented as faithful wisdom. Here, the moral and wise characters accept Christ Jesus, and the non-moral and ignorant are largely evil men. It's too much of an over-simplification for my brain, where this form of fundamentalist faith seems more likely to be an unshakable ignorance in response to fear of an indifferent universe. I have read much better books on racism and slavery.
*
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