What do you think?
Rate this book
The Living Water #1
The Well
In the rich tradition of Francine Rivers’s Lineage of Grace series, comes a beautiful retelling of the biblical story of the woman at the well—bringing to life this poignant young woman struggling to survive love and heartbreak.For the women of the Samaritan village of Sychar, the well is a place of blessing—the place where they gather to draw their water and share their lives—but not for Mara and her family. Shunned for the many sins of her mother, Mara struggles against the constant threats of starvation or exile.
But Mara and her mother, Nava’s lives are forever changed with the arrival of two men: Shem, a mysterious and wealthy young man from Caesarea, and Jesus, a Jewish teacher. Nava is transformed by Jesus, with his talk of forgiveness, but his teachings come too late and she is stoned by the villagers for her past sins. Desperate to save her mother, Mara and Shem embark on a journey to seek Jesus’ help—a journey that brings unexpected love and hope, despite great difficulties.
In The Well, debut novelist Stephanie Landsem brings to life the culture and people of Jesus’ day, skillfully demonstrating how redemption can bring about the life-changing effects of forgiveness and love.
But Mara and her mother, Nava’s lives are forever changed with the arrival of two men: Shem, a mysterious and wealthy young man from Caesarea, and Jesus, a Jewish teacher. Nava is transformed by Jesus, with his talk of forgiveness, but his teachings come too late and she is stoned by the villagers for her past sins. Desperate to save her mother, Mara and Shem embark on a journey to seek Jesus’ help—a journey that brings unexpected love and hope, despite great difficulties.
In The Well, debut novelist Stephanie Landsem brings to life the culture and people of Jesus’ day, skillfully demonstrating how redemption can bring about the life-changing effects of forgiveness and love.
304 pages, Paperback
First published June 4, 2013
45 people are currently reading
3186 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Landsem
9 books596 followersStephanie Landsem writes about women in history for women who love history. Stephanie has traveled on four continents and dozens of countries. When she can’t travel, she reads fiction and history and dreams of her next adventure -- whether it be in person or on the pages of her novels.
Her upcoming release, Code Name Edelweiss, is based on a true story. In 1933 Los Angeles, a Jewish lawyer and his band of amateur spies foil Hitler's plan to take over Hollywood.
In A Far-Off Land, is a story of murder, mystery and mercy set in the glamour of 1930s Hollywood and the grit of the Great Depression.
The Living Water series — The Well, The Thief, and The Tomb, a Novel of Martha—are stories of women transformed by encounters with Jesus.
Stephanie lives in Minnesota with her husband, random adult children, two bold cats and a neurotic dog. When she's not writing or speaking about her novels, she's gardening, cooking, and dreaming of travel to far-off places. You can find out more about Stephanie and her books at StephanieLandsem.com.
Her upcoming release, Code Name Edelweiss, is based on a true story. In 1933 Los Angeles, a Jewish lawyer and his band of amateur spies foil Hitler's plan to take over Hollywood.
In A Far-Off Land, is a story of murder, mystery and mercy set in the glamour of 1930s Hollywood and the grit of the Great Depression.
The Living Water series — The Well, The Thief, and The Tomb, a Novel of Martha—are stories of women transformed by encounters with Jesus.
Stephanie lives in Minnesota with her husband, random adult children, two bold cats and a neurotic dog. When she's not writing or speaking about her novels, she's gardening, cooking, and dreaming of travel to far-off places. You can find out more about Stephanie and her books at StephanieLandsem.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
September 20, 2022
This was so powerful! The woman at the well / Samaritan woman's story has always been such a special story for me... I loved what the author did with this Biblical character! The ending had me sobbing... Such a great story!
December 23, 2013
Mara is a fifteen year old Samaritan girl who lives with her younger, crippled brother, and her mother in a small clay house in Sychar. Nava – Mara's mother – is mentally unstable and unable to care for her children. So now Mara is trying to take care of her mother and brother. She is scorned in the village because of her mother's sins. Life is not easy for her.
A pagan man named Alexandros stops by their house once in a while to stay the night with Nava. No one may know, because Nava will surely be stoned if they ever find out. Mara often worries about it and tries to persuade Nava to turn Alexandros down next time.
Shem is a young man from Caesarea where he received a good education and where he could live a good life…if only he hadn't gotten himself into trouble. His father is sends him away to his grandparents in Sychar. Once there, he rescues Mara from three boys who bully her on her way to the well—and in doing so he makes his first enemies in Sychar.
One day Nava is going to the well where she meets Jesus. He knows all about her husbands and doesn't condemn her. She receives new life at the well and is changed. But the village people refuse to believe she's changed—they really want to punish her for her sins.
When something bad happens to her mother, Mara is called in a dream by Jesus. Meanwhile Jesus has left Sychar and has gone elsewhere. Mara and Shem go after him—together they travel from Sychar to Nazareth and further. On the way they get into several dangerous situations…
Will they find Jesus? Will her mother get healed? And what is the reason Jesus called Mara to come to him?
I enjoyed this book immensely! It is hard to believe this is a debut novel. The writing is excellent; the author has a pleasant voice, the plot is very well done, the characters are so real, easy to love, and easy to identify with. From the first till the last page, this book is a pure delight. I highly recommend this book!
A pagan man named Alexandros stops by their house once in a while to stay the night with Nava. No one may know, because Nava will surely be stoned if they ever find out. Mara often worries about it and tries to persuade Nava to turn Alexandros down next time.
Shem is a young man from Caesarea where he received a good education and where he could live a good life…if only he hadn't gotten himself into trouble. His father is sends him away to his grandparents in Sychar. Once there, he rescues Mara from three boys who bully her on her way to the well—and in doing so he makes his first enemies in Sychar.
One day Nava is going to the well where she meets Jesus. He knows all about her husbands and doesn't condemn her. She receives new life at the well and is changed. But the village people refuse to believe she's changed—they really want to punish her for her sins.
When something bad happens to her mother, Mara is called in a dream by Jesus. Meanwhile Jesus has left Sychar and has gone elsewhere. Mara and Shem go after him—together they travel from Sychar to Nazareth and further. On the way they get into several dangerous situations…
Will they find Jesus? Will her mother get healed? And what is the reason Jesus called Mara to come to him?
I enjoyed this book immensely! It is hard to believe this is a debut novel. The writing is excellent; the author has a pleasant voice, the plot is very well done, the characters are so real, easy to love, and easy to identify with. From the first till the last page, this book is a pure delight. I highly recommend this book!
January 24, 2014
I just finished this novel and it was so intense! I'll never look at the woman at the well the same way again. Landsem did a wonderful job drawing us into her world and showing us, through the eyes of her daughter, why this woman had so many husbands and such a difficult life. I also appreciated the biblical way Jesus was portrayed in this story. I didn't see the ending coming, but it was a gripping twist. Looking forward to Landsem's next book, The Thief!
March 28, 2021
That epilogue had me sobbing!
March 22, 2021
This was a lovely book. I often wonder how lives must have changed for those who were healed by Jesus, and this story illustrates that perfectly.
Some beautiful things happen, and some terrible things, and it has a very unexpected outcome. But the plot is so cleverly woven that the ending seems natural and inevitable. Also it’s well worth reading the author’s comments to see how the character of Shem came about, but I won’t say any more than that.
In the final chapters the pace quickens. A lot happens, to the point where I wished a bit more time could have been spent on some of the quite profound transformations, both physical and spiritual, which the characters undergo. The title’s theme is beautifully woven into Mara and Shem’s experience as events draw to a conclusion.
Mara is a strong, courageous, wonderful character. Shem, who begins the book eluding capture for killing a Roman, is in his own eyes selfish and spoiled. He has further to travel to reach a faith which Mara readily obtained, having seen Jesus Although Mara and Shem travel together, their emotional and spiritual journeys are quite different. It takes some explosive events upon returning to Sychar, , to bring Shem to that faith.
I’ve always thought the most effective way to portray Jesus is to show how others are affected by him. Ms Landsem uses this technique well. On the few occasions Biblical characters do appear, she writes them believably, and there’s a lovely moment where Mary offers Mara some comfort and advice.
The settings are vivid, taking the reader back to those days, to the laws, politics, cultural conflicts and social mores which existed. Often life was bleak and brutal; Mara’s family, living as social outcasts, relied on charity. Mara’s existence was one of poverty, toil and despair. Some of the villagers were kind, but the most powerful families held grudges against Mara’s family. The lengths to which they would go in seeking revenge, their hatred and cruelty, are ultimately rebuked by a miracle , and by the good-hearted gentleness and generosity of
So as I say, a lovely book, a tale very well told. Will definitely read more from this author. I understand the next of three in the series follows the story of the Roman soldier who was pursuing Shem.
Some beautiful things happen, and some terrible things, and it has a very unexpected outcome. But the plot is so cleverly woven that the ending seems natural and inevitable. Also it’s well worth reading the author’s comments to see how the character of Shem came about, but I won’t say any more than that.
In the final chapters the pace quickens. A lot happens, to the point where I wished a bit more time could have been spent on some of the quite profound transformations, both physical and spiritual, which the characters undergo. The title’s theme is beautifully woven into Mara and Shem’s experience as events draw to a conclusion.
Mara is a strong, courageous, wonderful character. Shem, who begins the book eluding capture for killing a Roman, is in his own eyes selfish and spoiled. He has further to travel to reach a faith which Mara readily obtained, having seen Jesus Although Mara and Shem travel together, their emotional and spiritual journeys are quite different. It takes some explosive events upon returning to Sychar, , to bring Shem to that faith.
I’ve always thought the most effective way to portray Jesus is to show how others are affected by him. Ms Landsem uses this technique well. On the few occasions Biblical characters do appear, she writes them believably, and there’s a lovely moment where Mary offers Mara some comfort and advice.
The settings are vivid, taking the reader back to those days, to the laws, politics, cultural conflicts and social mores which existed. Often life was bleak and brutal; Mara’s family, living as social outcasts, relied on charity. Mara’s existence was one of poverty, toil and despair. Some of the villagers were kind, but the most powerful families held grudges against Mara’s family. The lengths to which they would go in seeking revenge, their hatred and cruelty, are ultimately rebuked by a miracle , and by the good-hearted gentleness and generosity of
So as I say, a lovely book, a tale very well told. Will definitely read more from this author. I understand the next of three in the series follows the story of the Roman soldier who was pursuing Shem.
July 3, 2013
I enjoyed this Biblical fiction novel. It had a different twist to it than other versions I've read. In this book the main character was the daughter of the woman who went to the well in Samaria -- the one who said Jesus told her everything she'd ever done -- not the woman herself. There were a lot of tense moments in the story... but at times Mara got on my nerves. She was such a worrier, and very stubborn.
The way the author had several different stories going at the same time was cool, and the way they were merged together when Shem met Mara worked well. The scene with Nava at the synagogue was pretty intense. At that time I grew to admire Mara's faith and her pursuit of Jesus. The people in their town were cruel and judgmental, but I suppose that self-righteous attitude is pretty prevalent with a lot of religious people.
I liked Shem a lot. The tension between him and Mara was well done. Poor Mara had no clue that he would be fond of her as a woman. Even though in theory I should not have liked how things turned out in the end, I was satisfied with the resolution. The twist with Shem was pretty cool. I'm sure that's all fiction, but I still liked it.
I would recommend this novel to people who enjoy Biblical fiction and don't mind a lot of improvising with the facts. There are a lot of stories that don't have the details needed to make a complete novel. As long as it goes with the culture of the times, I enjoy seeing how different authors use the setting to bring out different points.
The way the author had several different stories going at the same time was cool, and the way they were merged together when Shem met Mara worked well. The scene with Nava at the synagogue was pretty intense. At that time I grew to admire Mara's faith and her pursuit of Jesus. The people in their town were cruel and judgmental, but I suppose that self-righteous attitude is pretty prevalent with a lot of religious people.
I liked Shem a lot. The tension between him and Mara was well done. Poor Mara had no clue that he would be fond of her as a woman. Even though in theory I should not have liked how things turned out in the end, I was satisfied with the resolution. The twist with Shem was pretty cool. I'm sure that's all fiction, but I still liked it.
I would recommend this novel to people who enjoy Biblical fiction and don't mind a lot of improvising with the facts. There are a lot of stories that don't have the details needed to make a complete novel. As long as it goes with the culture of the times, I enjoy seeing how different authors use the setting to bring out different points.
May 3, 2013
Stephanie Landsem's The Well gives us an unforgettable character in Mara, a young woman shunned and harassed because of her mother's sinful choices. Determined to provide for her crippled younger brother, Mara must rely on the begrudging charity of the townspeople, but the unexpected attentions of a stranger provokes jealousy she can't afford.
Wanted by the Roman government, Shem has fled Caesarea to hide at his grandfather's farm in the village of Sychar, but trouble seems to always find him. He must respond to injustice, even if he doesn't always respond wisely. Will his rash actions hurt those he's trying to protect?
I can't tell you how excited I am about this book. Although familiar with the first century stigma against adultery I never stopped to consider the social implications for the children of an adulterous woman...and these women almost certainly would've had children. Landsem takes a story that you think you know and leaves you breathless with unexpected discoveries. I found myself stunned with the turns in the story and setting the book down to reflect and pray before I could go any further.
This is a book you'll tell your friends about.
Wanted by the Roman government, Shem has fled Caesarea to hide at his grandfather's farm in the village of Sychar, but trouble seems to always find him. He must respond to injustice, even if he doesn't always respond wisely. Will his rash actions hurt those he's trying to protect?
I can't tell you how excited I am about this book. Although familiar with the first century stigma against adultery I never stopped to consider the social implications for the children of an adulterous woman...and these women almost certainly would've had children. Landsem takes a story that you think you know and leaves you breathless with unexpected discoveries. I found myself stunned with the turns in the story and setting the book down to reflect and pray before I could go any further.
This is a book you'll tell your friends about.
February 24, 2021
Excellent story. A true page-turner that I couldn’t put down. I just had to know what would happen next on this completely unexpected journey. The historical details of Jesus’ ministry were captivating and truly thought-provoking.
Although, as much as I enjoyed the book, I must admit there were times I wanted to change the course of the story because it wasn’t headed in the direction I wanted. But the author knew better, creating an incredibly powerful book.
The basic premise is a story we know well – the woman at the well who Jesus has an encounter with. This book gives a whole new twist to that story as it is told from two unique perspectives, the woman’s teenage daughter and a young man new to town.
This fictional account makes you ponder the additional lives that Jesus’ encounter would have touched and changed—something I’d never thought of before. I really loved the message that our plans are not always God’s plans, but He, of course, has the perfect plan. Amazing things can happen if we have the courage to give Him control and follow where He leads.
This was an outstanding book for older teens.
Although, as much as I enjoyed the book, I must admit there were times I wanted to change the course of the story because it wasn’t headed in the direction I wanted. But the author knew better, creating an incredibly powerful book.
The basic premise is a story we know well – the woman at the well who Jesus has an encounter with. This book gives a whole new twist to that story as it is told from two unique perspectives, the woman’s teenage daughter and a young man new to town.
This fictional account makes you ponder the additional lives that Jesus’ encounter would have touched and changed—something I’d never thought of before. I really loved the message that our plans are not always God’s plans, but He, of course, has the perfect plan. Amazing things can happen if we have the courage to give Him control and follow where He leads.
This was an outstanding book for older teens.
Read
January 4, 2014Beautifully crafted!
I have to confess that Biblical women's fiction is not (usually) my cup of tea. But this novel sucked me in and had me in tears -- TEARS! -- toward the end. I rarely cry over a novel. When I do, my emotions have truly been stirred.
The Well is based on the Biblical story of the woman at the well. In this novel the story unfolds through the perspective of the woman's teenage daughter, Mara. I was fascinated by the glimpse the story gave me into the way that the people of that time lived and worshipped. Secondary characters include Jesus, his disciples, Mary, and more. I can only imagine what a lively discussion a church book group might have over this book. :) It's a very thoughtful read, full of sorrows and struggles as well as joys.
Congratulations on a wonderful debut novel, Stephanie Landsem!
I have to confess that Biblical women's fiction is not (usually) my cup of tea. But this novel sucked me in and had me in tears -- TEARS! -- toward the end. I rarely cry over a novel. When I do, my emotions have truly been stirred.
The Well is based on the Biblical story of the woman at the well. In this novel the story unfolds through the perspective of the woman's teenage daughter, Mara. I was fascinated by the glimpse the story gave me into the way that the people of that time lived and worshipped. Secondary characters include Jesus, his disciples, Mary, and more. I can only imagine what a lively discussion a church book group might have over this book. :) It's a very thoughtful read, full of sorrows and struggles as well as joys.
Congratulations on a wonderful debut novel, Stephanie Landsem!
May 20, 2014
Teenage Mara works hard to take care of herself, her crippled little brother, and her depressed mother, and wishes for the days when her mother didn't sleep all day, the days when her brother's father lived with them. It's only a matter of time before the villagers discover her mother's most recent sin, and when they do, the food will stop coming. They might even be driven from their home.
Trouble finds Shem wherever he goes, and this time, its set him up for a lifetime of olive-picking in Sychar with his grandfather. Well, long enough for the Romans to calm down and stop looking for him in and around Caesarea. But trouble finds him even in Sychar, and this time it has the face of a beautiful girl with jade-amber eyes.
I expected the main character to be the woman Jesus conversed with in John chapter four, but it was rather her (fictional) daughter, Mara (though the well scene was done in the mother’s POV). I also expected the book to climax with Jesus’ crucifixion at the end, as the back cover specified “a journey that brings unexpected love and unimaginable heartbreak”.
My hat is off to an author brave enough to write a story incorporating Bible stories involving Jesus. I was a little wary of how Jesus might be stretched to fit a work of fiction, and was delighted with a careful echo of Scripture surrounding His comments/replies (though one of His replies to the woman in John chapter four was omitted and put into a later fictional scene). The author wasn’t afraid to use her imagination in the story, which proved satisfying on the fictional side, but a bit jolting as it strays from Sychar's response to Jesus in John 4:40-42.
As I reached the end, my feelings about the story were mixed and muddled. “Unimaginable heartbreak”, is the right description, but it didn’t involve the crucifixion scene. I have to hand it to the author, she really surprised me. And while a good and impactful ending, it did not leave me with happy sighs as I turned the last page. Rather it made the characters memorable, and gave me lots to ponder.
In case I sound too disappointed, I do plan on picking up "The Thief", which revists a few of the characters introduced in "The Well". When you come across an author who proves herself a master storyteller of a genre you love, and delivers pacing, action, and tension-layering in way that makes you want to study her work, you're not going to let an unexpected ending keep you away from more. Especially when so many other authors out there are predictable. Yes, you find those masters of plot twists and you hang on to them... :-P
I would recommend the “The Well” to those who can enjoy Biblical Fiction with some improvisation, fans of Francine Rivers, and those who enjoy stories they can’t predict.
Trouble finds Shem wherever he goes, and this time, its set him up for a lifetime of olive-picking in Sychar with his grandfather. Well, long enough for the Romans to calm down and stop looking for him in and around Caesarea. But trouble finds him even in Sychar, and this time it has the face of a beautiful girl with jade-amber eyes.
I expected the main character to be the woman Jesus conversed with in John chapter four, but it was rather her (fictional) daughter, Mara (though the well scene was done in the mother’s POV). I also expected the book to climax with Jesus’ crucifixion at the end, as the back cover specified “a journey that brings unexpected love and unimaginable heartbreak”.
My hat is off to an author brave enough to write a story incorporating Bible stories involving Jesus. I was a little wary of how Jesus might be stretched to fit a work of fiction, and was delighted with a careful echo of Scripture surrounding His comments/replies (though one of His replies to the woman in John chapter four was omitted and put into a later fictional scene). The author wasn’t afraid to use her imagination in the story, which proved satisfying on the fictional side, but a bit jolting as it strays from Sychar's response to Jesus in John 4:40-42.
As I reached the end, my feelings about the story were mixed and muddled. “Unimaginable heartbreak”, is the right description, but it didn’t involve the crucifixion scene. I have to hand it to the author, she really surprised me. And while a good and impactful ending, it did not leave me with happy sighs as I turned the last page. Rather it made the characters memorable, and gave me lots to ponder.
In case I sound too disappointed, I do plan on picking up "The Thief", which revists a few of the characters introduced in "The Well". When you come across an author who proves herself a master storyteller of a genre you love, and delivers pacing, action, and tension-layering in way that makes you want to study her work, you're not going to let an unexpected ending keep you away from more. Especially when so many other authors out there are predictable. Yes, you find those masters of plot twists and you hang on to them... :-P
I would recommend the “The Well” to those who can enjoy Biblical Fiction with some improvisation, fans of Francine Rivers, and those who enjoy stories they can’t predict.
June 4, 2013
The Well is the debut novel by Stephanie Landsem, but you’d be forgiven for thinking otherwise. I’ve read fiction regarding the woman at the well before, and I was curious to read this take by an unknown writer. We know little about the woman, except that she was a Samaritan with a dubious past. Who was she? What was her past? What happened to her after her encounter with Jesus? With so little known, there is freedom to create a fascinating story. But how similar would this version be to the others already out there?
The answer is, not much. Landsem has taken a different direction from the norm. Her focus is not so much on the woman but on those around her. How did her actions impact her family? Was it still possible for them to love her despite having had five husbands and then a relationship with a sixth man? How did the Samaritan community regard her and her family? Did her sins mean her family was also forsaken and treated like outcasts? How did they react when she came into the village talking of having met a man who knew everything about her? Did they believe her? And what did they think about the Jewish man who had spoken so freely with her?
In The Well, Landsem responds to these questions with a beautifully detailed narrative. The first half of the book details the life Mara has in Sychar and her interactions with the other villagers and Shem, who is a newcomer. The second half is about the journey Mara makes to find Jesus. She believes he can heal her mother’s horrific injuries. Shem accompanies her, only because he is looking to atone for his only trouble. He doesn’t believe Jesus is who he says he is, but he wants a way for Nava’s accusers to pay for their actions. When they finally catch up with Jesus, however, it is Shem who receives a message from the Nazarene. What will it take for Shem to listen and believe? The striking final chapters and epilogue give us the incredible answer.
Thank you to Howard Books for my free copy of The Well, which I received in exchange for an honest review.
The answer is, not much. Landsem has taken a different direction from the norm. Her focus is not so much on the woman but on those around her. How did her actions impact her family? Was it still possible for them to love her despite having had five husbands and then a relationship with a sixth man? How did the Samaritan community regard her and her family? Did her sins mean her family was also forsaken and treated like outcasts? How did they react when she came into the village talking of having met a man who knew everything about her? Did they believe her? And what did they think about the Jewish man who had spoken so freely with her?
In The Well, Landsem responds to these questions with a beautifully detailed narrative. The first half of the book details the life Mara has in Sychar and her interactions with the other villagers and Shem, who is a newcomer. The second half is about the journey Mara makes to find Jesus. She believes he can heal her mother’s horrific injuries. Shem accompanies her, only because he is looking to atone for his only trouble. He doesn’t believe Jesus is who he says he is, but he wants a way for Nava’s accusers to pay for their actions. When they finally catch up with Jesus, however, it is Shem who receives a message from the Nazarene. What will it take for Shem to listen and believe? The striking final chapters and epilogue give us the incredible answer.
Thank you to Howard Books for my free copy of The Well, which I received in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2013
I do love a good Biblical fiction--and this is one great Biblical fiction!
Mara is the daughter of the Biblical woman at the well, Nava, and the sister of a cripple, Asher. Many of the people at Sychar have decided they should be shunned. Nava because she sent her husband away and indulges in things she shouldn't; Asher because he is crippled, and it must be because he or his mother deserve punishment; and Mara by association.
Shem is the son of a wealthy Jewish merchant and a Samaritan mother and the possessor of a hot temper and arrogance that doesn't endear him to the Romans in Caesarea. A fight with two soldiers one night first to protect a woman about to be raped and then to protect his younger brother results in the violent death of one of the soldiers.
Now Shem's father must send him to Sychar, to his grandparents, to hide. Shem is mortified, at least until he catches a glimpse of Mara.
Mara is the daughter of the Biblical woman at the well, Nava, and the sister of a cripple, Asher. Many of the people at Sychar have decided they should be shunned. Nava because she sent her husband away and indulges in things she shouldn't; Asher because he is crippled, and it must be because he or his mother deserve punishment; and Mara by association.
Shem is the son of a wealthy Jewish merchant and a Samaritan mother and the possessor of a hot temper and arrogance that doesn't endear him to the Romans in Caesarea. A fight with two soldiers one night first to protect a woman about to be raped and then to protect his younger brother results in the violent death of one of the soldiers.
Now Shem's father must send him to Sychar, to his grandparents, to hide. Shem is mortified, at least until he catches a glimpse of Mara.
June 28, 2022
I enjoy these types of stories that open the imagination about historical and in this case Biblical characters. This book was not exactly what I was expecting as the main character is not actually the woman at the well, but her daughter and another man, whose identify is revealed later. The story was a bit sensational for me at points, but it was a good read and brought up some interesting historical and cultural elements.
April 6, 2018
Wow. This is a fictional retelling of the Samaritan woman Jesus meets at the well in Sychar, yet it is so much more. Although very few other characters in this story are actually mentioned in the Bible, the way the author wove their stories together was fascinating. The book is very, very bittersweet, in a way that reminds us that this world is not our home, and the greatest treasures are found in heaven, not on earth. I highly recommend it.
September 28, 2019
I don’t know if I’ve ever cried while reading a book...until now. This one got me good!
January 2, 2024
This was a thought provoking read for my small faith sharing group at church.
April 1, 2024
It’s good when biblical fiction can be used to help you understand the days and culture of biblical times that’s what I got most from this book and spiritual insight in the depths of dying for love…I loved this journey
April 17, 2024
Started off a little slow for my liking, but definitely picked up and became a great read.
March 11, 2014
Ever since reading The Thief, Stephanie Landsem's second novel in The Living Water Series, I felt I missed out on her debut novel, The Well. I was so impressed and lost in her novel, I had to read this one just to see where it all began and to satisfy the longing in my book lover's heart. You know when you find an exceptional author, you have to pick up everything they write. I was not disappointed in my discovery. Thank you to Howard Books for generously sending me this copy to read and review without any monetary compensation for a favorable review.
One of the things that make Stephanie's novels so exceptional is she doesn't leave out any details when taking a known event from the Bible and expounding on the details that we don't know. Given that very little is known about the Samaritan women at the well that Jesus encounters, I love how Stephanie elaborated on what her life must have been like to bring her to that fateful life changing encounter we all know about from the Bible.
In the novel The Well, the reader is transported back in time to the Samaritan village of Sychar, where we find ourselves meeting the famed adulterous woman, Nava who is once again bringing much shame and disgrace not only to the village but more importantly to her daughter Mara and her disabled brother Asher. Knowing that her mother has completely lost sight of what this could bring to her family if anyone discovers what she is doing, Mara takes on the role of the mother, providing for the care and feeding of her mother and Asher. Since they are among the poorest in the village, they are only able to get by with the charity of the women in town who leave whatever they can spare so Mara and Asher won't go hungry. But Mara knows the charity will only last for so long as she manages to care for her family any way she can.
Fate intervenes when Jesus comes to the town of Sychar and meets Nava at the well. Just when it looks like things will get better for their family, those in the town that seek revenge instead of grace won't stop until they ensure that the laws of God are upheld in town. But once her mother is brought before the court, will there be anyone willing to stand up for righteousness against the odds? You just might be surprised at how well Stephanie writes the conclusion of her debut novel.
I received The Well by Stephanie Landsem compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest opinion. The one thing I didn't realize is how she will preserve some of these characters for their reprising role in The Thief. I don't want to spoil it for you but trust me, if you love Biblical Fiction, you will definitely want to pick up The Well and The Thief. This is such an exceptional journey because you feel as though you're not just reading the story but actually living there. Just the violent act of stoning is something I am glad we don't do any longer and it seems it would be a painful and slow death at the hands of people who believe their are justified in their actions. This reminds me of mob-like vigilante's of the ancient days. I easily give this a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.
One of the things that make Stephanie's novels so exceptional is she doesn't leave out any details when taking a known event from the Bible and expounding on the details that we don't know. Given that very little is known about the Samaritan women at the well that Jesus encounters, I love how Stephanie elaborated on what her life must have been like to bring her to that fateful life changing encounter we all know about from the Bible.
In the novel The Well, the reader is transported back in time to the Samaritan village of Sychar, where we find ourselves meeting the famed adulterous woman, Nava who is once again bringing much shame and disgrace not only to the village but more importantly to her daughter Mara and her disabled brother Asher. Knowing that her mother has completely lost sight of what this could bring to her family if anyone discovers what she is doing, Mara takes on the role of the mother, providing for the care and feeding of her mother and Asher. Since they are among the poorest in the village, they are only able to get by with the charity of the women in town who leave whatever they can spare so Mara and Asher won't go hungry. But Mara knows the charity will only last for so long as she manages to care for her family any way she can.
Fate intervenes when Jesus comes to the town of Sychar and meets Nava at the well. Just when it looks like things will get better for their family, those in the town that seek revenge instead of grace won't stop until they ensure that the laws of God are upheld in town. But once her mother is brought before the court, will there be anyone willing to stand up for righteousness against the odds? You just might be surprised at how well Stephanie writes the conclusion of her debut novel.
I received The Well by Stephanie Landsem compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest opinion. The one thing I didn't realize is how she will preserve some of these characters for their reprising role in The Thief. I don't want to spoil it for you but trust me, if you love Biblical Fiction, you will definitely want to pick up The Well and The Thief. This is such an exceptional journey because you feel as though you're not just reading the story but actually living there. Just the violent act of stoning is something I am glad we don't do any longer and it seems it would be a painful and slow death at the hands of people who believe their are justified in their actions. This reminds me of mob-like vigilante's of the ancient days. I easily give this a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.
March 22, 2019
The story of the Samaritan woman at the well is one of the most well-known conversations of the Gospels. In addition, the conversation is the longest Jesus has with a woman. Clearly, there is meaning in the account. Landsem's dramatic novel recounts what that woman's story might have been like, through the eyes of her daughter. Filled with lush imagery, complex characterizations, and unexpected twists, The Well is a powerful testament to the power of divine Grace. This novel moved and inspired me, brought me to tears and brought a deep sense of peace. I particularly like that the quotes from Jesus are all directly from the Bible – no interpretations or additions. The only complaint I have is that I had to complete it! Thank goodness Landsem wrote two more in the series – even if they focus on different individuals.
June 29, 2017
The Well is the debut novel by Stephanie Landsem. Set in the small Samaritan village of Sychar, The Well is about a young girl named Mara, who is shunned from the community because of the sinful past of her mother, Nava, who is the woman at the well found in John 4:1-42. Mara takes care of her younger, disabled brother as well as her home, while her mother struggles with a life of sin and the depression and despair that accompanies it. While life is hard for Mara, her faith in God is strong, and she often prays during her work and throughout her day. She grows strong in character and virtue, despite her difficult life.
Life begins to change in Sychar when two men arrive. The first man is Shem, who is wealthy and worldly. He moves in with his grandparents, Abahu and Mechola, to help them in their olive grove. Throughout The Well, we learn of Shem’s past, his desire for justice and his struggle with faith. He is drawn to Nava’s beauty, and various situations continue to put them together. Then, there is Jesus, who miraculously cures Nava of her depressive state and forgives her of her sins. She is a new woman and a transformed mother, after her encounter with Jesus, and she joyfully shares her experience with the entire town. This, of course, causes quite the uprising, and after Jesus leave Sychar, many townspeople still want Nava to pay for her countless sinful acts, which results in a sentence of stoning.
Mara is desperate to save her mother, and she knows the only way to do that is to find Jesus, the Tehab, which is what the Samaritan people call the Messiah. She sets out to find Jesus, with the help of Shem, and their journey brings them more adventure, love, heartache and sacrifice than either of them could have imagined.
The Well is an absolutely beautiful story about faith, love, hope, trust and surrender. It is adventurous, moving and inspiring. I could not put it down, and I did not want it to end, as I read the last several pages through tears of overwhelming joy, heartache and compassion for these characters. What I loved most of all was Stephanie’s beautiful way of writing a story about unconditional love so strong that we are willing to sacrifice our own hopes and desires for the good of another person and for the glory of God.
If you enjoy historical fiction and/or Biblical fiction, The Well is a must-read! Add it to your list and start reading today! (It would make a great read for Lent!)
Life begins to change in Sychar when two men arrive. The first man is Shem, who is wealthy and worldly. He moves in with his grandparents, Abahu and Mechola, to help them in their olive grove. Throughout The Well, we learn of Shem’s past, his desire for justice and his struggle with faith. He is drawn to Nava’s beauty, and various situations continue to put them together. Then, there is Jesus, who miraculously cures Nava of her depressive state and forgives her of her sins. She is a new woman and a transformed mother, after her encounter with Jesus, and she joyfully shares her experience with the entire town. This, of course, causes quite the uprising, and after Jesus leave Sychar, many townspeople still want Nava to pay for her countless sinful acts, which results in a sentence of stoning.
Mara is desperate to save her mother, and she knows the only way to do that is to find Jesus, the Tehab, which is what the Samaritan people call the Messiah. She sets out to find Jesus, with the help of Shem, and their journey brings them more adventure, love, heartache and sacrifice than either of them could have imagined.
The Well is an absolutely beautiful story about faith, love, hope, trust and surrender. It is adventurous, moving and inspiring. I could not put it down, and I did not want it to end, as I read the last several pages through tears of overwhelming joy, heartache and compassion for these characters. What I loved most of all was Stephanie’s beautiful way of writing a story about unconditional love so strong that we are willing to sacrifice our own hopes and desires for the good of another person and for the glory of God.
If you enjoy historical fiction and/or Biblical fiction, The Well is a must-read! Add it to your list and start reading today! (It would make a great read for Lent!)
May 23, 2013
I've read the biblical story of the woman at the well, recorded in John 4, enough times for it to become familiar. Maybe too familiar. Which is why I appreciate what Stephanie Landsem has done with her debut novel The Well. (Disclaimer: I received a free copy of The Well from Howard Books in exchange for my review.)
In it, we meet Mara, a teenager taking care of her crippled brother and despondant mother, in first-century Samaria. The mother, Nava, we will later discover is the biblical woman at the well who talks with Jesus and receives living water. That scene is uniquely imagined by the author and led me to look at the biblical passage in a new way.
And that's only part of the story.
Nava is living sinfully in the village and Mara has almost no prospects of marriage. They struggle to find enough food to eat and they survive mainly on the charity of the other villagers, who equally despise Nava and feel sorry for her children. Then an outsider comes to the village, a man named Shem who has come to his grandfather's olive farm to escape for a time while he's hunted by Romans for killing a soldier. Shem has a soft spot for the weak and those treated unjustly. He finds himself unintentionally intertwined with Mara's future.
When Jesus visits their village and speaks with Nava at the well, her life is changed and the course of Mara and Shem's future is set in motion.
The ending, I think, will surprise you.
Landsem presents a believable picture of life in first-century Samaria, and the liberties she takes with familiar biblical accounts is refreshing. The Bible leaves a lot to our imaginations, and it's fun when an author chooses to fill in the gaps. The plot is plausible and captivating.
The Well is Landsem's first novel, but it won't be her last. Look for more imaginative biblical stories from her in the future.
For more about the author, visit her at http://www.stephanielandsem.com/.
In it, we meet Mara, a teenager taking care of her crippled brother and despondant mother, in first-century Samaria. The mother, Nava, we will later discover is the biblical woman at the well who talks with Jesus and receives living water. That scene is uniquely imagined by the author and led me to look at the biblical passage in a new way.
And that's only part of the story.
Nava is living sinfully in the village and Mara has almost no prospects of marriage. They struggle to find enough food to eat and they survive mainly on the charity of the other villagers, who equally despise Nava and feel sorry for her children. Then an outsider comes to the village, a man named Shem who has come to his grandfather's olive farm to escape for a time while he's hunted by Romans for killing a soldier. Shem has a soft spot for the weak and those treated unjustly. He finds himself unintentionally intertwined with Mara's future.
When Jesus visits their village and speaks with Nava at the well, her life is changed and the course of Mara and Shem's future is set in motion.
The ending, I think, will surprise you.
Landsem presents a believable picture of life in first-century Samaria, and the liberties she takes with familiar biblical accounts is refreshing. The Bible leaves a lot to our imaginations, and it's fun when an author chooses to fill in the gaps. The plot is plausible and captivating.
The Well is Landsem's first novel, but it won't be her last. Look for more imaginative biblical stories from her in the future.
For more about the author, visit her at http://www.stephanielandsem.com/.
August 25, 2023
I hope this is a compliment to the author when I compare these two books. But of all the Christian books I've ever read, no book has been able to hold a candle to the way Redeeming Love hit me in my heart with the depth of emotion and redemption....the way it gripped me and was hard to read but also hard to put down. The writing style that's able to capture the reality of the raw and dark side of humanity and how it snuffs out the light and life inside of a good human soul....until Jesus.
That's the way this book spoke to me. It's about a woman whose life is so stained with shame she collapses into despair...leaving her children to fend for themselves because her spirit is just too broken to care for them. And the shame and burden her younger daughter carries because of her mothers choices.
Some of those in their community do not have compassion, but instead, act as the enemy and accuser right here on earth to the family. One outsider takes compassion on the daughter, and it changes the course of his life. And then Jesus comes. Jesus leaves. And as things grow worse for this family who lives in constant shame, the young girl and outsider go after the only One they think can help them. And it will cost them everything.
Gripping from the first page, this is a must read for those who love Christian fiction.
Last note, I absolutely loved the ending to Maras story (the daughter). Shem's story (the outsider) seemed to come to a strong conclusion without much leading up to it and I found myself thinking how much I could have read more leading up to the epilogue about his journey. And I did also wish there had been more of a presence from Jesus. However, definitely a 5 star read, and I will be reading the second and third books in this series as soon as they arrive! This writing style is definitely one of a kind.
That's the way this book spoke to me. It's about a woman whose life is so stained with shame she collapses into despair...leaving her children to fend for themselves because her spirit is just too broken to care for them. And the shame and burden her younger daughter carries because of her mothers choices.
Some of those in their community do not have compassion, but instead, act as the enemy and accuser right here on earth to the family. One outsider takes compassion on the daughter, and it changes the course of his life. And then Jesus comes. Jesus leaves. And as things grow worse for this family who lives in constant shame, the young girl and outsider go after the only One they think can help them. And it will cost them everything.
Gripping from the first page, this is a must read for those who love Christian fiction.
Last note, I absolutely loved the ending to Maras story (the daughter). Shem's story (the outsider) seemed to come to a strong conclusion without much leading up to it and I found myself thinking how much I could have read more leading up to the epilogue about his journey. And I did also wish there had been more of a presence from Jesus. However, definitely a 5 star read, and I will be reading the second and third books in this series as soon as they arrive! This writing style is definitely one of a kind.
February 16, 2016
The Well is so much bigger than a love story. Mara is the daughter of the outcast Woman at the Well who meets Jesus in John chapter 4. Mara has tried to keep her little family together as her mothers struggle with depression causes her to act foolishly and bring shame on the family until the day she meets Jesus. Shem is a spoiled brat from a wealthy Hellenized family in Caesarea. Exiled by his father for fighting Roman injustice, Shem finds more than he bargained for in Sychar. Not only does he fall for this beautiful girl, but she leads him to the Tahebthe Restorer for whom faithful Samaritans have waited for hundreds of years. Shem is a cynic. Changing his mind about Jesus will change everything.
Landsems story is incredibly well researched. Her powerful writing makes readers feel like they are experiencing first century life. Her characters are like us in their complicated motivations and frailties. We desperately want them ride off into the sunset to live happily ever after.
The ending left me sobbing, not for two human lovers, but for the much bigger, richer story that Landsem evokes of the Lover of my soul who invites you and me to participate in his grand Restoration plan. That love story can cost everything. But then it cost Jesus his life. He considered his plan worth it.
This is Landsems debut novel. I cant wait to see what her profound faith, meticulous research and superb storytelling skills will bring us next. Im sure it will be more than a story. It will be something to shake how we think about our faith.
[I received a free copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.]
Landsems story is incredibly well researched. Her powerful writing makes readers feel like they are experiencing first century life. Her characters are like us in their complicated motivations and frailties. We desperately want them ride off into the sunset to live happily ever after.
The ending left me sobbing, not for two human lovers, but for the much bigger, richer story that Landsem evokes of the Lover of my soul who invites you and me to participate in his grand Restoration plan. That love story can cost everything. But then it cost Jesus his life. He considered his plan worth it.
This is Landsems debut novel. I cant wait to see what her profound faith, meticulous research and superb storytelling skills will bring us next. Im sure it will be more than a story. It will be something to shake how we think about our faith.
[I received a free copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.]
August 4, 2017
Landsem's novelization of the Samaritan woman at the well is thought-provoking. How did that woman end up with five husbands and a lover? What if she had children--how would their mother's choices affect them? Did the village change after Jesus' visit? What if these people interacted with other biblical figures, too?
I enjoyed the overall story, along with the insights into the regional landscapes, cultures, and religious/interpersonal tensions.
The reasons I gave the book only three stars are because there's more "telling" than "showing," the characters can fall a little flat or two-dimensional, there's quite a bit of repetition, and the author relies on some Christian tropes/turns of phrases that can seem cheesy or anachronistic. For example, one character says that another character looks "lost," like he's searching for sonething greater--but I hadn't gotten that impression of the character by his thoughts and actions. Later, a new disciple says that his faith is "like a tiny mustard seed"--a clear allusion to a parable, but one that the character hasn't heard.
Overall, though, an enjoyable read.
I enjoyed the overall story, along with the insights into the regional landscapes, cultures, and religious/interpersonal tensions.
The reasons I gave the book only three stars are because there's more "telling" than "showing," the characters can fall a little flat or two-dimensional, there's quite a bit of repetition, and the author relies on some Christian tropes/turns of phrases that can seem cheesy or anachronistic. For example, one character says that another character looks "lost," like he's searching for sonething greater--but I hadn't gotten that impression of the character by his thoughts and actions. Later, a new disciple says that his faith is "like a tiny mustard seed"--a clear allusion to a parable, but one that the character hasn't heard.
Overall, though, an enjoyable read.
June 25, 2013
Stephanie Landsem breathes fresh life and understanding into the story of the woman at the well. Under her skilled pen, the characters, the setting, the history of ancient Samaria spring to life.
The book was wonderful, with beautiful storytelling and perfect timing throughout. I actually shivered at Jesus's appearance at the well. I heard his voice so clearly, and knew immediately who was speaking because everything leading up to that moment was so perfectly orchestrated.
I woke up the next morning still thinking about the story. That is exactly the kind of effect we all want our books to have. We all hope that our stories leave something with the reader, and that they are challenged or changed to look more deeply at themselves because of our words. The Well is a debut to stir the soul. - Elizabeth Ludwig, Author of No Safe Harbor
The book was wonderful, with beautiful storytelling and perfect timing throughout. I actually shivered at Jesus's appearance at the well. I heard his voice so clearly, and knew immediately who was speaking because everything leading up to that moment was so perfectly orchestrated.
I woke up the next morning still thinking about the story. That is exactly the kind of effect we all want our books to have. We all hope that our stories leave something with the reader, and that they are challenged or changed to look more deeply at themselves because of our words. The Well is a debut to stir the soul. - Elizabeth Ludwig, Author of No Safe Harbor
November 13, 2018
I'd say 2.5 stars. I enjoyed the beginning fine and was in tears at the very end, but the middle got very very very slow for me. I didn't want to give up on the book because of such great reviews. Right when two of the main characters take up all the plot, it just flopped for me. I had to skim a hundred pages, I think. There was chapter after chapter of both characters having inner monologs of doubt over and over. It was a little annoying to have to read... Especially since they were both being stubborn and hard on themselves. But once other characters got back into the plot, it picked up again.
I have enjoyed Lynn Austin's biblical fictions much more, but I might try another one of Stephanie Landsem. The ending was really really great and unexpected. I thought it was really a beautiful message at the end. The book just needed better editing in the middle.
I have enjoyed Lynn Austin's biblical fictions much more, but I might try another one of Stephanie Landsem. The ending was really really great and unexpected. I thought it was really a beautiful message at the end. The book just needed better editing in the middle.
October 28, 2013
The Woman at the well is a well known encounter Jesus had that most Christians are most familiar with. In fact, for me it is ironic that the teaching at church today was the woman at the well. God works in mysterious ways because we all are in this story. We all thirst, but how we satisfy that thirst is what Jesus is showing us thru this encounter even for today. The story tells us in context about the woman at the well. She has a name of Nava. The bible of course does not give many details about this woman, however, I liked how the story played out and how it pulls the reader to understand our thirst for the true living water. The two main characters Mara and Shem teach us the difference between justice and revenge and love and sacrifice.
May 30, 2015
This historical novel is centered on the story of the Samaritan Woman at the Well, but contains much more of Jesus' story as well as subplots involving Roman soldiers, marriage customs and the first Christian martyrs. Author Stephanie Landsem has woven these elements together in a compelling novel. The unlikely pairing of Shem, a scholar from Caesaria who has run afoul of the Romans and Mara, the daughter of the woman at the well, makes for an excellent story with some surprises in the plot. Various elements of the life of Jesus become part of the novel as it builds toward an unexpected and satisfying ending.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
January 20, 2022
The Well is a retelling of the biblical story of the Samaritan woman at the well. The biblical account is probably familiar to you. After asking the Samaritan woman for a drink, Jesus tells her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water" (John 4:10; ESV). There are so many things happening in this single account - evidence of Jesus's divinity, mercy, and power.
The Well takes off from there and tells the story of what happened after the woman's encounter with Jesus. There are also some fun and unexpected character appearances in the story!
The Well takes off from there and tells the story of what happened after the woman's encounter with Jesus. There are also some fun and unexpected character appearances in the story!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews