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Lost Loves of the Bible #2
Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah
Meet the legendary Samson as you've never known him before … through the eyes of the three women who loved him. Before Samson was an Old Testament legend, he was a prodigal son, an inexperienced suitor, a vengeful husband, and a lost soul driven by his own weakness. This is his story as told by three strong women who loved him—the nagging, manipulative mother who pushed him toward greatness, the hapless Philistine bride whose betrayal propelled him into notoriety, and the emotionally damaged seductress—the famous Delilah—who engineered his downfall and propelled him to his destiny. Desired celebrates the God of Israel's to work powerfully in the midst of hopes, fears, desires, and sorrows.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2011
45 people are currently reading
1185 people want to read
About the author
Ginger Garrett
37 books189 followersGinger Garrett is the author of the middle grade titles Name Tags and Other Sixth Grade Disasters (Carolrhoda Press) and The Last Monster (Delacorte Press/Random House) as well as other titles for women.
A frequent media guest and television host, Ginger has been interviewed by Fox News, 104.7 The Fish Atlanta, and many other outlets. Ginger resides in Georgia with her husband, three children and her 27th rescue dog, Watson.
A frequent media guest and television host, Ginger has been interviewed by Fox News, 104.7 The Fish Atlanta, and many other outlets. Ginger resides in Georgia with her husband, three children and her 27th rescue dog, Watson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
April 28, 2012
Find this and other reviews at: http://flashlightcommentary.blogspot....
I’m really surprised and somewhat disappointed that Ginger Garrett’s Desired didn’t work for me. I wont lie, I found the darker themes of the Samson and Delilah tragedy very appealing, especially since most of the biblical fiction I’ve encountered centers on much lighter tales. I also loved the idea of Samson’s story as told by the women in his life. Unfortunately, content alone does not make a good book.
I mean no disrespect to Garrett when I say this as there is nothing inherently wrong with her writing, but her work didn’t speak to me. Her characters appeared stilted, the narrative description heavy and the storyline wooden and lifeless. I read because I like getting away from the stress of the real world, but getting through Desired felt more like a chore than a relaxing diversion.
I’ll grant that some authors have enormous followings, but no writer has universal appeal and I beg you remember that when taking in my less than enthusiastic commentary. The bottom line is that a rating reflects a reader’s experience and Desired, though technically sound, wasn’t a good pick for me.
I’m really surprised and somewhat disappointed that Ginger Garrett’s Desired didn’t work for me. I wont lie, I found the darker themes of the Samson and Delilah tragedy very appealing, especially since most of the biblical fiction I’ve encountered centers on much lighter tales. I also loved the idea of Samson’s story as told by the women in his life. Unfortunately, content alone does not make a good book.
I mean no disrespect to Garrett when I say this as there is nothing inherently wrong with her writing, but her work didn’t speak to me. Her characters appeared stilted, the narrative description heavy and the storyline wooden and lifeless. I read because I like getting away from the stress of the real world, but getting through Desired felt more like a chore than a relaxing diversion.
I’ll grant that some authors have enormous followings, but no writer has universal appeal and I beg you remember that when taking in my less than enthusiastic commentary. The bottom line is that a rating reflects a reader’s experience and Desired, though technically sound, wasn’t a good pick for me.
September 3, 2011
I loved the author's approach to this book. She makes characters that are traditionally misunderstood come to life. She also makes situations that are alluded to in the Scriptures but not necessarily spelled out very easy to relate to. I loved the female characters in this book and understood why they had hard hearts that led to decisions that they ultimately regretted.
Women had so little power in the Philistine culture. So when an opportunity for these women to change their situations presented itself it was hard for them to say no. Love had betrayed Delilah and wounded her in the past, so it wasn't enough to keep her from hurting others. Understandable, even if it's not something we admire characters for. The author had to stay true to what happened in the Bible, so altering that aspect of the story wasn't an option.
I wept for both Amara and Delilah (not literally, but my heart grieved when they deal with the consequences of their choices) which is a testimony to the author's ability to grab the reader's heart. Garrett did a great job making me empathize with their plights. It was never an excuse for what they did, but an explanation that made sense to me. I think this is Garrett's best book, bar none. The author did a great job of showing how Samson's strength was also his downfall. And his Jewish mother was excellently portrayed as well. I could sense his mother's disillusionment when things continually happened that she didn't understand and couldn't control.
This is the first time the similarities between Samson (and the people looking to him for deliverance,) and Jesus were brought to light in my thoughts. God has a way of doing things much differently than people expect. This is shone through Samson's story, but his life also reflected the consequences of his poor choices just like in the story of David and Bathsheba. People who enjoy Biblical fiction and it's ability to bring Scriptural truths to light will appreciate this book.
Women had so little power in the Philistine culture. So when an opportunity for these women to change their situations presented itself it was hard for them to say no. Love had betrayed Delilah and wounded her in the past, so it wasn't enough to keep her from hurting others. Understandable, even if it's not something we admire characters for. The author had to stay true to what happened in the Bible, so altering that aspect of the story wasn't an option.
I wept for both Amara and Delilah (not literally, but my heart grieved when they deal with the consequences of their choices) which is a testimony to the author's ability to grab the reader's heart. Garrett did a great job making me empathize with their plights. It was never an excuse for what they did, but an explanation that made sense to me. I think this is Garrett's best book, bar none. The author did a great job of showing how Samson's strength was also his downfall. And his Jewish mother was excellently portrayed as well. I could sense his mother's disillusionment when things continually happened that she didn't understand and couldn't control.
This is the first time the similarities between Samson (and the people looking to him for deliverance,) and Jesus were brought to light in my thoughts. God has a way of doing things much differently than people expect. This is shone through Samson's story, but his life also reflected the consequences of his poor choices just like in the story of David and Bathsheba. People who enjoy Biblical fiction and it's ability to bring Scriptural truths to light will appreciate this book.
June 22, 2019
Desired tells the story of the legendary strong man, Samson, through the eyes of the three most important women in his life: his fiercely loving mother, his impoverished Philistine bride Amara, and the emotionally charged seductress Delilah. As Samson's story is told you see the events through the eyes of all 3 of the women, and it definitely makes me want to go back and reread the events surrounding Samson again in the Bible. This is a complex story and Garrett's writing was superb. She is a new-to-me author and I will definitely read the other 2 books in this series. Her change in perspective as the story was told was handled beautifully, and her Biblical and historical research was obvious. I definitely got a new perspective on both Samson and Delilah and never realized that Samson had once been married.
Two words that the author used both caught my attention since they were not in use during the Biblical Era: technology (1859) and nagging (1840). Surprised her editor did not catch this.
Each of the books in this series can be read as a stand-alone.
Two words that the author used both caught my attention since they were not in use during the Biblical Era: technology (1859) and nagging (1840). Surprised her editor did not catch this.
Each of the books in this series can be read as a stand-alone.
July 9, 2022
Brought the story of Samson to life. Told through the eye of Amara, his mother, and Deliah. Humanized the characters to a large extent. Even softened Samson from the bruit he seems to be In the bible
November 1, 2013
Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah is written from the point-of-view of three women in Samson’s life: his mother, a young Philistine girl (who becomes his wife), and finally Delilah. Ginger Garrett’s writing is phenomenal—a mastery of words and phrases that painted pictures and stole my breath. This story depicted Samson, a complex, bigger-than-life biblical character, in ways that I could apply to my daily walk with the Lord. A Samson-sized feat, indeed.
This story was not what I expected. Seeing Samson through his mother’s eyes was an unsettling conundrum. Amazon’s description labeled her as nagging and manipulative, which didn’t scratch the surface of this Hebrew mama’s impact on her miracle-boy-turned-renegade. At times, I felt embarrassed for the woman—so overbearing were her maternal instincts. I didn’t really like Samson’s Philistine wife or Delilah. I generally pitied the whole bunch! But I found myself unable to stop reading because I needed to know the fate of each one. This is where Ginger’s superb writing excelled.
The Book of Judges glimpses a time in Israel’s history when heroes were hard to find:
“At that time the Israelites…went home to their tribes and clans, each to his own inheritance. In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit.” Judges 21:24-25
The extensive research and biblical accuracy helped explain many questions from Samson’s story in Judges 13-16. But be forewarned. This is not a novel for the faint-of-heart. Just as the stories in Judges are graphic in content and description, so Ginger’s novel describes the characters’ activities realistically—without sensationalizing.
I can sum up the message of this book with words from Samson’s mother that challenged me for days. (Don’t you love it when a book has that kind of impact?)
“I could not understand why everyone devoted themselves to understand the secret of his strength. Why did it matter? Why did no one care what his strength was for, why it had been given to him? Why did no one seek that answer? No one wanted to know. They preferred the excitement of miracles to the hard work of change, the hard work of breaking away from a culture that enslaved them all so comfortably.”
This story was not what I expected. Seeing Samson through his mother’s eyes was an unsettling conundrum. Amazon’s description labeled her as nagging and manipulative, which didn’t scratch the surface of this Hebrew mama’s impact on her miracle-boy-turned-renegade. At times, I felt embarrassed for the woman—so overbearing were her maternal instincts. I didn’t really like Samson’s Philistine wife or Delilah. I generally pitied the whole bunch! But I found myself unable to stop reading because I needed to know the fate of each one. This is where Ginger’s superb writing excelled.
The Book of Judges glimpses a time in Israel’s history when heroes were hard to find:
“At that time the Israelites…went home to their tribes and clans, each to his own inheritance. In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit.” Judges 21:24-25
The extensive research and biblical accuracy helped explain many questions from Samson’s story in Judges 13-16. But be forewarned. This is not a novel for the faint-of-heart. Just as the stories in Judges are graphic in content and description, so Ginger’s novel describes the characters’ activities realistically—without sensationalizing.
I can sum up the message of this book with words from Samson’s mother that challenged me for days. (Don’t you love it when a book has that kind of impact?)
“I could not understand why everyone devoted themselves to understand the secret of his strength. Why did it matter? Why did no one care what his strength was for, why it had been given to him? Why did no one seek that answer? No one wanted to know. They preferred the excitement of miracles to the hard work of change, the hard work of breaking away from a culture that enslaved them all so comfortably.”
December 2, 2011
In this historical fiction that retells the famous love story of Samson and Delilah, Samson himself is practically a footnote to the main stories, which are of the three women of his life. The reader comes to know him from the impact he has on these women. I learned a lot about what life was like for women of that time and place. I learned about the relationship between the Hebrew nation and their neighbors, the Philistines, and about the Philistine’s god Dagon. Because this familiar story is retold from the viewpoint of the women, the lines of right and wrong, good guy and bad guy, are blurred a bit. Instead of faulting this person for his action or that person for her lack of action, the reader sees the possible “story behind the story”.
The circumstances that drew these characters to each other were so intriguing, and I found myself really hoping for a different ending than the one I knew was to come. Throughout the book, I was reminded that life doesn’t always turn out as expected. I think the summary in the lesson to be derived from this book is found on page 307, in the words of Samson’s mother:
"Every winter, just before spring arrives, the almond trees bloom. They are a promise from God, each of those white blossoms, that He is watching and His words will be fulfilled in their appointed time. Sometimes, this appointed time comes before we are ready. Sometimes, it seems to come too late. We cannot understand His timing…"
However, as we learn in this story, we can trust that He is faithful to keep His word and to work miracles for those who obey Him even when they don’t understand Him.
I really enjoyed the author’s style of writing. She is a gifted craftsman of poetic prose, with descriptions and phrases that make the story breathe. I never felt that she’d overdone it, nor that she could have developed a point further. The story does deal with adult themes that may be unsuitable for teens, but I’d recommend this book for my girlfriends who need to be reminded that God can redeem any situation, and that He finishes what He starts.
The circumstances that drew these characters to each other were so intriguing, and I found myself really hoping for a different ending than the one I knew was to come. Throughout the book, I was reminded that life doesn’t always turn out as expected. I think the summary in the lesson to be derived from this book is found on page 307, in the words of Samson’s mother:
"Every winter, just before spring arrives, the almond trees bloom. They are a promise from God, each of those white blossoms, that He is watching and His words will be fulfilled in their appointed time. Sometimes, this appointed time comes before we are ready. Sometimes, it seems to come too late. We cannot understand His timing…"
However, as we learn in this story, we can trust that He is faithful to keep His word and to work miracles for those who obey Him even when they don’t understand Him.
I really enjoyed the author’s style of writing. She is a gifted craftsman of poetic prose, with descriptions and phrases that make the story breathe. I never felt that she’d overdone it, nor that she could have developed a point further. The story does deal with adult themes that may be unsuitable for teens, but I’d recommend this book for my girlfriends who need to be reminded that God can redeem any situation, and that He finishes what He starts.
February 8, 2012
To be honest, I have mixed feelings about this Desired. It was written well, offered a compelling story, drawn out and real characters, and everything that is worthy of a five star review. Yet, this book also had some serious draw backs for me personally.
Desired is very dark. While Ginger Garrett never glosses over the Biblical realities we so often miss when browsing our own Bible, she's been known to point out the darker side of stories that we may not think on. This story, was a tad too dark for me.
Yet, nothing in Samson's account gives any indication that it should be anything other than a dark story. This man was a man of war. Despite this truth, I could have lived without the graphic violence.
This book also contains a lot of sensuality. I don't really mind the sensuality between those who are married--no Christian literature will ever make me blush as much as reading Songs of Solomon. So I can handle that. The opening scene, however, left my stomach retching. While it may have been common practice among the Philistines to esteem homosexual marriage, I felt like it could have been implied without describing one of the men as having a "virgin's blush."
In spite of all of this, Ginger Garrett truly manages to bring one back to the truth and lessons that we glean from Samson. She brings the reader back to reflect on how Samson's life may resemble our own, what we can do differently, and how God is merciful in spite of what we've done.
Desired is not a book I would recommend to the average reader. If you're able to handle the darkness this book deals with, you will definitely gain so much from it. If you're not, my recommendation is that you should start with Ginger Garret's first book, Chosen, and work your way up to this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from David C. Cook Publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Desired is very dark. While Ginger Garrett never glosses over the Biblical realities we so often miss when browsing our own Bible, she's been known to point out the darker side of stories that we may not think on. This story, was a tad too dark for me.
Yet, nothing in Samson's account gives any indication that it should be anything other than a dark story. This man was a man of war. Despite this truth, I could have lived without the graphic violence.
This book also contains a lot of sensuality. I don't really mind the sensuality between those who are married--no Christian literature will ever make me blush as much as reading Songs of Solomon. So I can handle that. The opening scene, however, left my stomach retching. While it may have been common practice among the Philistines to esteem homosexual marriage, I felt like it could have been implied without describing one of the men as having a "virgin's blush."
In spite of all of this, Ginger Garrett truly manages to bring one back to the truth and lessons that we glean from Samson. She brings the reader back to reflect on how Samson's life may resemble our own, what we can do differently, and how God is merciful in spite of what we've done.
Desired is not a book I would recommend to the average reader. If you're able to handle the darkness this book deals with, you will definitely gain so much from it. If you're not, my recommendation is that you should start with Ginger Garret's first book, Chosen, and work your way up to this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from David C. Cook Publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2012
I have read stories like this before (Pearl in the Sand was amazing) and have really liked them, however this one just wasn't up to par. I really liked the young women's points of view. Young Amara was nicely characterized and fleshed out, though not particularly dynamic.
The people I had the most problems with, were 1 Samson and 2 his mother. Samson seemed like a little boy who never grew up. I understand that he was more of side story and the real focus was on both Amara and Delilah but still I would rather have dynamic characters than stagnant ones. He seemed to be unwilling to take true control of his life and that simply irritated me. Also his mother...I don't see her being that nagging of a person. She was probably of the same caliber of Elisabeth and Mary in the New Testament or Hannah and Sarah from the Old Testament. I don't see a nagging, manipulative, prideful woman being called to raise a "chosen one." So her portrayal really made me tune her out throughout the novel.
The one who made me keep reading this is Delilah. Her story was wonderfully written, her change from a young innocent to the infamous seductress was believable and my favorite part to read. I loved her and how she was humanized and how were actions, which have little to no motivation given in the biblical story found in Judges.
Overall I would say it was ok but not my favorite.
Many thanks to NetGalley for helping me get a copy to read for review.
The people I had the most problems with, were 1 Samson and 2 his mother. Samson seemed like a little boy who never grew up. I understand that he was more of side story and the real focus was on both Amara and Delilah but still I would rather have dynamic characters than stagnant ones. He seemed to be unwilling to take true control of his life and that simply irritated me. Also his mother...I don't see her being that nagging of a person. She was probably of the same caliber of Elisabeth and Mary in the New Testament or Hannah and Sarah from the Old Testament. I don't see a nagging, manipulative, prideful woman being called to raise a "chosen one." So her portrayal really made me tune her out throughout the novel.
The one who made me keep reading this is Delilah. Her story was wonderfully written, her change from a young innocent to the infamous seductress was believable and my favorite part to read. I loved her and how she was humanized and how were actions, which have little to no motivation given in the biblical story found in Judges.
Overall I would say it was ok but not my favorite.
Many thanks to NetGalley for helping me get a copy to read for review.
November 17, 2013
After finishing a Ginger Garrett novel you will want to immediately read another. Desired tells the story of Samson from the perspective of the three prominent women in his life: his mother, his first wife, and his second love. This story is not for the faint hearted, but then again, neither is the Bible. This is a great adaptation of Samson taken directly from Scriptures. Ginger's writing style brings truth to life.
One man, Samson, born for God's purpose seems to have women get in his way. Or do they? Did God purposely put these particular women in his life to perpetuate his destiny or did Samson stray from God's calling? Either way God uses all things for His good. As you read each of their thoughts and stories you cant help but sympathize and be angered all at the same time. Responding emotions constantly change.
The story flowed well until the end. The last chapter felt rushed and sadly, in my personal opinion, missed an important Biblical detail. Other than this disappointment the Biblical accuracy was greatly enhanced with the fictional details. With that said, I encourage you to read the Biblical account of Samson found in Judges 13 - 16 for an additional bonus.
One man, Samson, born for God's purpose seems to have women get in his way. Or do they? Did God purposely put these particular women in his life to perpetuate his destiny or did Samson stray from God's calling? Either way God uses all things for His good. As you read each of their thoughts and stories you cant help but sympathize and be angered all at the same time. Responding emotions constantly change.
The story flowed well until the end. The last chapter felt rushed and sadly, in my personal opinion, missed an important Biblical detail. Other than this disappointment the Biblical accuracy was greatly enhanced with the fictional details. With that said, I encourage you to read the Biblical account of Samson found in Judges 13 - 16 for an additional bonus.
June 20, 2013
Being a fan of Bible stories in general and of Samson's story in particular, I really was looking forward to reading this book as it tells his story from a totally different point of view, that of the three very important women in his life.
From the start of this book, I knew it would be different and I thought I was prepared for it, but I was also surprised by its content as well.
I didn't really expect an accounting about Samson from the Bible nor the movie I saw long time ago with Victor Mature and Hedy Lamarr, but I also didn't expect this sweaty, smelly beast of a man who goes after what he wants without caring who he hurts. A man in this book is vicious, vengeful and way too dark. He was unappealing and I couldn't picture him at all as a hero.
Delilah on the other hand was the only character that made this story worth the read. Her characters evolution was well written and I enjoyed watching her become the seductress we all read about in the Bible.
If you're looking for a different viewpoint of this story, and one that offers at times a sensual, dark and emotional view, you might like it. Personally, I found it too depressing.
Mel for b2b
*Book provided by publisher through NetGalley.
From the start of this book, I knew it would be different and I thought I was prepared for it, but I was also surprised by its content as well.
I didn't really expect an accounting about Samson from the Bible nor the movie I saw long time ago with Victor Mature and Hedy Lamarr, but I also didn't expect this sweaty, smelly beast of a man who goes after what he wants without caring who he hurts. A man in this book is vicious, vengeful and way too dark. He was unappealing and I couldn't picture him at all as a hero.
Delilah on the other hand was the only character that made this story worth the read. Her characters evolution was well written and I enjoyed watching her become the seductress we all read about in the Bible.
If you're looking for a different viewpoint of this story, and one that offers at times a sensual, dark and emotional view, you might like it. Personally, I found it too depressing.
Mel for b2b
*Book provided by publisher through NetGalley.
October 15, 2011
Ginger Garrett is a masterful storyteller. Through vivid descriptions and accurate research, she sweeps the reader away on a trip to the ancient city of Timnah during Philistine rule. The wine is plenty, the idol worship is rampant, yet love is still sought in this heathen land. It is here that the Hebrew, Samson, meets his Philistine wife, Amara, and where she becomes the first woman to betray him.
But she will not be the only women to claim such a title. Delilah, who most have always associated with a seductive nature, begs and pleads for Samson to share his secret with her. Through several tests, we know that he does indeed share this well-kept secret, and it leads to his demise.
For those readers familiar with this tale from Judges, do not be convinced yet that you know the whole story of Samson. Garrett has a few surprises up her sleeve. This dramatic Biblical story will have you burning the midnight oil, and will also have you reaching for your Bible to compare both stories when you are finished.
But she will not be the only women to claim such a title. Delilah, who most have always associated with a seductive nature, begs and pleads for Samson to share his secret with her. Through several tests, we know that he does indeed share this well-kept secret, and it leads to his demise.
For those readers familiar with this tale from Judges, do not be convinced yet that you know the whole story of Samson. Garrett has a few surprises up her sleeve. This dramatic Biblical story will have you burning the midnight oil, and will also have you reaching for your Bible to compare both stories when you are finished.
September 14, 2015
4.5/5 Stars.
I liked the author's portrayal of Delilah. I wasn't expecting to empathize with her as much as I did. Additionally, I've always viewed Samson's choices as reckless in my personal reading of the biblical accounts. Ginger Garrett turned that presumption upside down in her novel, by making her readers consider his choices to be directives from God. Much like His command for Hosea to marry a prostitute.
For the more sensitive readers: This story has elements that may make you cringe. Namely sexual assault, Delilah as a temple priestess, and that children born out of the "love unions" of the temple are discarded. All illustrate the depravity of the culture and the need for the Israelites to be delivered by a Judge.
I liked the author's portrayal of Delilah. I wasn't expecting to empathize with her as much as I did. Additionally, I've always viewed Samson's choices as reckless in my personal reading of the biblical accounts. Ginger Garrett turned that presumption upside down in her novel, by making her readers consider his choices to be directives from God. Much like His command for Hosea to marry a prostitute.
For the more sensitive readers: This story has elements that may make you cringe. Namely sexual assault, Delilah as a temple priestess, and that children born out of the "love unions" of the temple are discarded. All illustrate the depravity of the culture and the need for the Israelites to be delivered by a Judge.
May 28, 2015
I didn't expect to feel empathy towards Samson's wife or to Delilah but I certainly did. What a sad account of the hurts and disappointments those women may have faced. His mother comes across as overbearing and self-righteous but I could sense her love for him. Even when we sin and make mistakes God can still redeem us and use us for His purposes. Ms. Garrett did an excellent job of bringing the Bible Story to life and revealing another side of Samson's life.
January 22, 2013
Mixed feelings about this book. I enjoyed the detail and learning more about the world of Samson and the two women he loved. However it is not a book I would recommend to anyone who is not a really mature christian and can deal with how sad and full of pain the accounts of its characters are .
May 31, 2012
When I have time for leisure reading, I tend to gravitate to historical fiction. Biblical historical fiction in particular is fascinating because even though the authors by necessity must take some license with the story, when done well, it can really bring to life the stories and cultures of Biblical times.
I first discovered Ginger Garrett when I stumbled onto her novel Dark Hour, which is based on the events recounted in 2 Chronicles 21-23 and 2 Kings 10-11. In that book, she took a rather obscure story and really made it come alive (you can read a short review I did here). I was an instant fan!
Ms. Garrett's latest offering is Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah . If you're familiar with the Biblical account, you know it's not a pleasant, feel good story. There is no "happily ever after" here. Still, I couldn't put it down. The story is told from the viewpoints of both Samson's mother, who is never named in Scripture, and Delilah herself. I love how Ms. Garrett takes lesser known characters who are often overlooked, or who we don't know much about, and fleshes them out.
The story was haunting and poignant. The main characters are well developed and the attention to historical detail is impressive. It was fascinating to get a glimpse into the culture of the Philistines of that time, and frankly, a little unsettling to find myself having sympathy for Delilah, who is usually portrayed as a one-dimensional temptress and villain. Of course Delilah's "back story" is pure speculation, but it still gives food for thought. What was her story and why did God choose to allow her to play the part in His plan that she did?
And, despite the lack of a happy ending, the novel ends with a powerful note of hope: hope in God, not hope in our circumstances. A reminder we all need. As with her other novels, I loved the author's note at the end, where she offers more historical background and insight into why she chose to develop the characters the way she did.
If you prefer light, fluffy stories with happy endings, you may not enjoy this one. But if you appreciate engaging stories that challenge your assumptions and make you think, Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah might be just what you'll like. It's definitely a hit in my book! I highly recommend it.
Thanks so much to David C. Cook Publishing for providing a review copy of this title for review. I wasn't required to give a positive review and all opinions are my own.
Read more: http://homewithpurpose.blogspot.com/2...
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution
I first discovered Ginger Garrett when I stumbled onto her novel Dark Hour, which is based on the events recounted in 2 Chronicles 21-23 and 2 Kings 10-11. In that book, she took a rather obscure story and really made it come alive (you can read a short review I did here). I was an instant fan!
Ms. Garrett's latest offering is Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah . If you're familiar with the Biblical account, you know it's not a pleasant, feel good story. There is no "happily ever after" here. Still, I couldn't put it down. The story is told from the viewpoints of both Samson's mother, who is never named in Scripture, and Delilah herself. I love how Ms. Garrett takes lesser known characters who are often overlooked, or who we don't know much about, and fleshes them out.
The story was haunting and poignant. The main characters are well developed and the attention to historical detail is impressive. It was fascinating to get a glimpse into the culture of the Philistines of that time, and frankly, a little unsettling to find myself having sympathy for Delilah, who is usually portrayed as a one-dimensional temptress and villain. Of course Delilah's "back story" is pure speculation, but it still gives food for thought. What was her story and why did God choose to allow her to play the part in His plan that she did?
And, despite the lack of a happy ending, the novel ends with a powerful note of hope: hope in God, not hope in our circumstances. A reminder we all need. As with her other novels, I loved the author's note at the end, where she offers more historical background and insight into why she chose to develop the characters the way she did.
If you prefer light, fluffy stories with happy endings, you may not enjoy this one. But if you appreciate engaging stories that challenge your assumptions and make you think, Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah might be just what you'll like. It's definitely a hit in my book! I highly recommend it.
Thanks so much to David C. Cook Publishing for providing a review copy of this title for review. I wasn't required to give a positive review and all opinions are my own.
Read more: http://homewithpurpose.blogspot.com/2...
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October 21, 2013
Meet the legendary Samson as you've never known him before … through the eyes of the three women who loved him.
Before Samson was an Old Testament legend, he was a prodigal son, an inexperienced suitor, a vengeful husband, and a lost soul driven by his own weakness. This is his story as told by three strong women who loved him—the nagging, manipulative mother who pushed him toward greatness, the hapless Philistine bride whose betrayal propelled him into notoriety, and the emotionally damaged seductress—the famous Delilah—who engineered his downfall and propelled him to his destiny. Desired celebrates the God of Israel's to work powerfully in the midst of hopes, fears, desires, and sorrows.
My Review:
Anyone who has lived knows about Samson and Delilah. They are a couple destined to live forever in the public eye with Samson playing the hero and Delilah the seductress who was his ultimate demise. Boys are told the story and warned not to fall to the wiles of women. Girls are admonished by their mothers to never "become" what Delilah was. But no one has bothered to look at Samson's story from the time it began, to the point he lost his life because of a woman.
That being said, this book is not for the younger set. If you have unmarried daughters, this novel will only feed their imaginations in the areas of sensuality, etc. I would definitely say "mature readers only!" This was an astounding portrayal and look at the life of Samson before he fell to Delilah. I never realized how much I enjoyed getting to know the man until I read of his life with Amara, and of course, his mother. This was a brilliant work of fiction and I appreciated the distinctive voice Garrett lends to Samson. While it is not a book that will leave you gratified with a happy ending, as a reader of thousands of Christian fiction, I have to say I am sick of happy endings. Life doesn't always end on a high note, and we are each called and chosen for a purpose. This novel manifests the mercy of God despite our sin, and the consequences of our sin despite His mercy.
This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
Before Samson was an Old Testament legend, he was a prodigal son, an inexperienced suitor, a vengeful husband, and a lost soul driven by his own weakness. This is his story as told by three strong women who loved him—the nagging, manipulative mother who pushed him toward greatness, the hapless Philistine bride whose betrayal propelled him into notoriety, and the emotionally damaged seductress—the famous Delilah—who engineered his downfall and propelled him to his destiny. Desired celebrates the God of Israel's to work powerfully in the midst of hopes, fears, desires, and sorrows.
My Review:
Anyone who has lived knows about Samson and Delilah. They are a couple destined to live forever in the public eye with Samson playing the hero and Delilah the seductress who was his ultimate demise. Boys are told the story and warned not to fall to the wiles of women. Girls are admonished by their mothers to never "become" what Delilah was. But no one has bothered to look at Samson's story from the time it began, to the point he lost his life because of a woman.
That being said, this book is not for the younger set. If you have unmarried daughters, this novel will only feed their imaginations in the areas of sensuality, etc. I would definitely say "mature readers only!" This was an astounding portrayal and look at the life of Samson before he fell to Delilah. I never realized how much I enjoyed getting to know the man until I read of his life with Amara, and of course, his mother. This was a brilliant work of fiction and I appreciated the distinctive voice Garrett lends to Samson. While it is not a book that will leave you gratified with a happy ending, as a reader of thousands of Christian fiction, I have to say I am sick of happy endings. Life doesn't always end on a high note, and we are each called and chosen for a purpose. This novel manifests the mercy of God despite our sin, and the consequences of our sin despite His mercy.
This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2013
About the Book:
Before Samson was an Old Testament legend, he was a prodigal son, an inexperienced suitor, a vengeful husband, and a lost soul driven by his own weakness. This is his story as told by three strong women who loved him—the nagging, manipulative mother who pushed him toward greatness, the hapless Philistine bride whose betrayal propelled him into notoriety, and the emotionally damaged seductress—the famous Delilah—who engineered his downfall and propelled him to his destiny. Desired celebrates the God of Israel's to work powerfully in the midst of hopes, fears, desires, and sorrows.
About the Author:
Ginger Garrett is the author of the Chronicles of the Scribes series (In the Shadow of Lions, In the Arms of Immortals, In the Eyes of Eternity), Wolves Among Us, Chosen, Desired, Dark Hour, and Beauty Secrets of the Bible. Chosen: The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther was recognized as one of the top five novels of 2006 by the ECPA.
A graduate of Southern Methodist University with a degree in Theater, she is passionate about creating art from history. Ginger resides in Georgia with her husband and three children.
My Review:
I think if you have ever studied the Bible long enough, you would certainly know the story of Samson and Delilah. In Ginger Garrett's book, Desired, the untold story of Samson&Delilah you are sure to get the best fictionally story based on historic fact that is Biblical based. This story is written through the eyes of three different women that were very much a part of Samson's life, his mother, Amara-his wife, and Delilah-the seductress. Written in this way we say how they felt about the man and his mission in life. And how each of them played a very important role in how his life was shaped and lived out.
Ginger Garrett has put together a rather dark, dreary story about Samson. She is a very well versed author that makes her novels rich with character and history.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge from the author for my honest review.
Before Samson was an Old Testament legend, he was a prodigal son, an inexperienced suitor, a vengeful husband, and a lost soul driven by his own weakness. This is his story as told by three strong women who loved him—the nagging, manipulative mother who pushed him toward greatness, the hapless Philistine bride whose betrayal propelled him into notoriety, and the emotionally damaged seductress—the famous Delilah—who engineered his downfall and propelled him to his destiny. Desired celebrates the God of Israel's to work powerfully in the midst of hopes, fears, desires, and sorrows.
About the Author:
Ginger Garrett is the author of the Chronicles of the Scribes series (In the Shadow of Lions, In the Arms of Immortals, In the Eyes of Eternity), Wolves Among Us, Chosen, Desired, Dark Hour, and Beauty Secrets of the Bible. Chosen: The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther was recognized as one of the top five novels of 2006 by the ECPA.
A graduate of Southern Methodist University with a degree in Theater, she is passionate about creating art from history. Ginger resides in Georgia with her husband and three children.
My Review:
I think if you have ever studied the Bible long enough, you would certainly know the story of Samson and Delilah. In Ginger Garrett's book, Desired, the untold story of Samson&Delilah you are sure to get the best fictionally story based on historic fact that is Biblical based. This story is written through the eyes of three different women that were very much a part of Samson's life, his mother, Amara-his wife, and Delilah-the seductress. Written in this way we say how they felt about the man and his mission in life. And how each of them played a very important role in how his life was shaped and lived out.
Ginger Garrett has put together a rather dark, dreary story about Samson. She is a very well versed author that makes her novels rich with character and history.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge from the author for my honest review.
May 8, 2012
Ginger Garrett’s first Biblical fiction novel Chosen: The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther, about Queen Esther, got some pretty awesome press. She’s also currently writing a book about Jezebel. (How awesome is that!!!)
Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah is the story of Samson and is told from the perspectives of Delilah, his ill-fated first wife, and most importantly, his mother. Desired is really her story. It is a narrative of her desires for her son and her struggle to comprehend and accept that God’s desires for him may be different from her won. Her son, the promised deliverer, God’s promise and gift to her and her nation, doesn’t behave the way she expects or desires.
Samson isn’t done very often so I was excited to read Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah. In my excitement I guess I forgot to take into account the fact that Samson’s story is depressing. The tone was reminiscent of how Israel probably felt under Philistine rule, dark, oppressive, and bitter. So while I didn’t enjoy Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah, it was Good. After all biblical stories usually aren’t pretty.
Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah is the story of Samson and is told from the perspectives of Delilah, his ill-fated first wife, and most importantly, his mother. Desired is really her story. It is a narrative of her desires for her son and her struggle to comprehend and accept that God’s desires for him may be different from her won. Her son, the promised deliverer, God’s promise and gift to her and her nation, doesn’t behave the way she expects or desires.
Samson isn’t done very often so I was excited to read Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah. In my excitement I guess I forgot to take into account the fact that Samson’s story is depressing. The tone was reminiscent of how Israel probably felt under Philistine rule, dark, oppressive, and bitter. So while I didn’t enjoy Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah, it was Good. After all biblical stories usually aren’t pretty.
June 3, 2013
The story of Samson and Delilah from the view of the women in his life intrigued me. So I picked this up from Amazon and started reading.
The author paints Samson as a slobbish, self-centered man who sees wants he wants and takes, often pouting or throwing an adult hissy fit if he doesn't get his way. The story is peppered with lines like: "Samson sweats like a beast all the time," and "I did not even want to think what his beard would smell like tonight when he tried to kiss me".
Some parts of the book were confusing, and didn't quite follow the story of Samson as written in Judges. For instance, his first wife was given to one of Samson's companions in Judges after she betrayed him by telling her people the answer to his riddle. In this book she is given to an elderly man who appears to also be a Philistine. Given that there isn't much detail of his life given in the Bible, I expected this book to stick to what we know a little more than it did.
I also wasn't fond of the end, in which the author takes the liberty of having Delilah and Samson's family witness what appears to be Jesus welcoming Samson after his death and saying "Well done, my good and faithful servant." Delilah "opens her arms to him (Jesus)" as if accepting him as her God now. While the author doesn't go as far as to say that Samson's mother recognized Delilah for who she was, I find it implausible that they would have connected after such a horrible event just in time to witness something taking place on a spiritual plane. It felt to forced.
This gets three stars because it is well written and the characters definitely have some dimension to them. However the portrayal of Samson and the drifting from accuracy prevent me from rating it higher.
The author paints Samson as a slobbish, self-centered man who sees wants he wants and takes, often pouting or throwing an adult hissy fit if he doesn't get his way. The story is peppered with lines like: "Samson sweats like a beast all the time," and "I did not even want to think what his beard would smell like tonight when he tried to kiss me".
Some parts of the book were confusing, and didn't quite follow the story of Samson as written in Judges. For instance, his first wife was given to one of Samson's companions in Judges after she betrayed him by telling her people the answer to his riddle. In this book she is given to an elderly man who appears to also be a Philistine. Given that there isn't much detail of his life given in the Bible, I expected this book to stick to what we know a little more than it did.
I also wasn't fond of the end, in which the author takes the liberty of having Delilah and Samson's family witness what appears to be Jesus welcoming Samson after his death and saying "Well done, my good and faithful servant." Delilah "opens her arms to him (Jesus)" as if accepting him as her God now. While the author doesn't go as far as to say that Samson's mother recognized Delilah for who she was, I find it implausible that they would have connected after such a horrible event just in time to witness something taking place on a spiritual plane. It felt to forced.
This gets three stars because it is well written and the characters definitely have some dimension to them. However the portrayal of Samson and the drifting from accuracy prevent me from rating it higher.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2012
A well written tale, that tells the story of Samson with great attention to detail and description.
Desired tells the tale of Samson, through the eyes of three women, Samson's mother, his Philistine bride, and Delilah.
The story was well-told, with great attention to detail, and setting. I could literally feel the hard brick of the housetops under my feet, and the smell of the trickling stream.
Desired is a tale that is well-researched, yet at the same time isn't afraid to ask "What if" this, or that. And I really liked how Ms. Garrett gave a different view of Delilah than the typical temptress that we always tend to imagine her as.
Ms. Garrett's story is rich in detail, though at times the details were more sensual than I would have preferred. Though, with a story like this it would be impossible to avoid. But in my opinion there was more sensuality than was necessary, though I wouldn't call any of it explicit. But I would say that a warning is never a bad thing.
Desired is an emotionally heart-rending read, that at times was hard for me to read because of how sad every single one of the main characters' lives were. In my mind this book was almost like two books, because the first half was told mostly by Amara, Samson's Philistine bride, and then the book switched to Delilah, going back a few years to when she was younger. I will admit that this probably wasn't a good choice for me, considering what my personal preferences are, and at times the details were more than I wanted to read.
I received this book from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Desired tells the tale of Samson, through the eyes of three women, Samson's mother, his Philistine bride, and Delilah.
The story was well-told, with great attention to detail, and setting. I could literally feel the hard brick of the housetops under my feet, and the smell of the trickling stream.
Desired is a tale that is well-researched, yet at the same time isn't afraid to ask "What if" this, or that. And I really liked how Ms. Garrett gave a different view of Delilah than the typical temptress that we always tend to imagine her as.
Ms. Garrett's story is rich in detail, though at times the details were more sensual than I would have preferred. Though, with a story like this it would be impossible to avoid. But in my opinion there was more sensuality than was necessary, though I wouldn't call any of it explicit. But I would say that a warning is never a bad thing.
Desired is an emotionally heart-rending read, that at times was hard for me to read because of how sad every single one of the main characters' lives were. In my mind this book was almost like two books, because the first half was told mostly by Amara, Samson's Philistine bride, and then the book switched to Delilah, going back a few years to when she was younger. I will admit that this probably wasn't a good choice for me, considering what my personal preferences are, and at times the details were more than I wanted to read.
I received this book from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 20, 2013
In the book Desired, we follow the life of Samson. The story of Samson is told through the viewpoint of three of the most important women in his life: His mother, Amara, and Delilah.
Samson’s mother loves him so much and all she wants is for him to be great. She pushes him to do what’s right and tries to drag him away from evil, but she is not able to control his every move. Samson’s mother must watch as Samson destroys his own life by constantly making bad decisions.
Amara is Samson’s Philistine bride. Afraid of this huge man, Amara wants nothing to do with him. But when she is handed over to him as his bride, she must make the most of it. However, Amara’s story ends in tragedy.
Delilah is the woman that most people associate with Samson. After several years of pain and tragedy in Delilah’s life, she meets Samson and proceeds to have an affair with him. However, the affair doesn’t last forever as Delilah eventually betrays him.
Many people know the Bible story of Samson and Delilah, but not a lot of people remember the part of Samson’s story before he met Delilah. While I had read the story before, reading this book reminded me of the Bible story. I thought the author did a great job of bring the biblical story to life and leaving a lot of the biblical facts in as well as adding her own fictional twist. While Samson and Delilah are not characters that I admire, they still have their own lessons to teach and I enjoyed learning through their stories.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review. All opinions stated are my own.
http://mustlovereading.wordpress.com/
Samson’s mother loves him so much and all she wants is for him to be great. She pushes him to do what’s right and tries to drag him away from evil, but she is not able to control his every move. Samson’s mother must watch as Samson destroys his own life by constantly making bad decisions.
Amara is Samson’s Philistine bride. Afraid of this huge man, Amara wants nothing to do with him. But when she is handed over to him as his bride, she must make the most of it. However, Amara’s story ends in tragedy.
Delilah is the woman that most people associate with Samson. After several years of pain and tragedy in Delilah’s life, she meets Samson and proceeds to have an affair with him. However, the affair doesn’t last forever as Delilah eventually betrays him.
Many people know the Bible story of Samson and Delilah, but not a lot of people remember the part of Samson’s story before he met Delilah. While I had read the story before, reading this book reminded me of the Bible story. I thought the author did a great job of bring the biblical story to life and leaving a lot of the biblical facts in as well as adding her own fictional twist. While Samson and Delilah are not characters that I admire, they still have their own lessons to teach and I enjoyed learning through their stories.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review. All opinions stated are my own.
http://mustlovereading.wordpress.com/
July 2, 2013
I have been loveing most of the Bible Based Novels where there is so much research going into the time period, area of the world, politics, what a woman's role was in that particular culture and society at that time, ect...
But this one left me somewhat dissapointed on several fronts. First, The story seemed more about Sampson's Mom than about Delilah. Second you are WELL into the book before Delilah even showes up. Third there were some major mistakes when it came to her descriptions of Sampson...
1. When he first comes on the scene he is ENORMOUS!! AND HIDEOUS, Hair touching the ground and a beard to his belly...then he gets closer and she (his first wife to be) sees he has a kind and YOUNG face, around 18 or 20!!!
I have been a school teacher, worked with teens for years, have a brother 18 months older than me, NINE brother-in-laws and an 18 yr old son who's two best friends are close to 25...let me tell you...only in their WILDEST DREAMS could ANY of them have a THICK beard half way down his belly by the time he was 20!!
2. If I have my timing in the book right, After his first marriage was over and he was "chasing or wooing" Delilah, She noticed his hair, and it mentioned it coming to his knees or below his hips, I don't remember the wording but I remember that his hair seemed to have shrank by 2 or 3 feet with no explanation.
In my humble opinion this author bit off a bigger chunk of God's Book than she could ballance and it came off leaving me unsatisfied and feeling unfaithful to God's Word.
But this one left me somewhat dissapointed on several fronts. First, The story seemed more about Sampson's Mom than about Delilah. Second you are WELL into the book before Delilah even showes up. Third there were some major mistakes when it came to her descriptions of Sampson...
1. When he first comes on the scene he is ENORMOUS!! AND HIDEOUS, Hair touching the ground and a beard to his belly...then he gets closer and she (his first wife to be) sees he has a kind and YOUNG face, around 18 or 20!!!
I have been a school teacher, worked with teens for years, have a brother 18 months older than me, NINE brother-in-laws and an 18 yr old son who's two best friends are close to 25...let me tell you...only in their WILDEST DREAMS could ANY of them have a THICK beard half way down his belly by the time he was 20!!
2. If I have my timing in the book right, After his first marriage was over and he was "chasing or wooing" Delilah, She noticed his hair, and it mentioned it coming to his knees or below his hips, I don't remember the wording but I remember that his hair seemed to have shrank by 2 or 3 feet with no explanation.
In my humble opinion this author bit off a bigger chunk of God's Book than she could ballance and it came off leaving me unsatisfied and feeling unfaithful to God's Word.
October 3, 2013
There are three women that are significant in Samson's life. The first was his mother. She knew what the gifts that God had given him were to be used for. She fought to keep him from making things bad in his life, while Samson was always searching for something with the wrong women.
The second woman was really a young girl, a Philistine named Amara. Samson saw her on her family's roof when her sister threw a stick at him. Samson was completely enamored by her, would not listen to anyone else telling him not to have anything to do with her. Hebrews and Philistines don't mix.
The third woman was a young girl mistreated by her family then bought by a Priestess of the Temple Dagon. When girls were taken there they stayed as long as they were useful for appeasing the God's. Delilah was already carrying an unwanted child when she was taken to the Temple so she was treated very special until after the baby was born. That was when she started taking control of her own life.
Then Samson saw Delilah and had to have her. He had already married the other girl and then left her because she betrayed him. Delilah did not like him at all.
I like the way the author Ginger Garrett weaves the three women's stories into Samson's life. Each chapter is told from one of the three women's views with Samson sprinkled in. I feel like the story follows the Bible very well. I would recommend this book plus the #1 and #3 book all together, or separately.
I received a copy of the book from bookfun.org for my honest opinion.
The second woman was really a young girl, a Philistine named Amara. Samson saw her on her family's roof when her sister threw a stick at him. Samson was completely enamored by her, would not listen to anyone else telling him not to have anything to do with her. Hebrews and Philistines don't mix.
The third woman was a young girl mistreated by her family then bought by a Priestess of the Temple Dagon. When girls were taken there they stayed as long as they were useful for appeasing the God's. Delilah was already carrying an unwanted child when she was taken to the Temple so she was treated very special until after the baby was born. That was when she started taking control of her own life.
Then Samson saw Delilah and had to have her. He had already married the other girl and then left her because she betrayed him. Delilah did not like him at all.
I like the way the author Ginger Garrett weaves the three women's stories into Samson's life. Each chapter is told from one of the three women's views with Samson sprinkled in. I feel like the story follows the Bible very well. I would recommend this book plus the #1 and #3 book all together, or separately.
I received a copy of the book from bookfun.org for my honest opinion.
December 24, 2011
Three strong women, one physically strong man. It seems that the odds are stacked against Samson from the beginning. "Desired" is a fictionalized story of Samson and his loves. His mother wants him to continue with his Nazarite vow and marry an Israelite, keeping with his upbringing. Amara sees Samson from the rooftop of her home and desires him. Delilah uses her feminine wiles to get Samson to tell the secret of his strength. All three women had a power over Samson and which ultimately to his destruction. Why? Could Samson have turned away from the control of these women? Could he have made better choices? What was the rationale for each of these women to want some control? This story will give you insight into each of these questions and may even send you to the Bible to read what it has to say.
This was an interesting book to read. I have known the story of Samson and Delilah for many years, but this book gave it a new spin. The three women have compelling stories that will cause you to feel for them. You may also feel something for Samson and his propensity to make choices based on his desires. This book is great for individual readers, and I think groups would have fun discussing it. I received my free review copy from Net Galley and the publisher, and thank them for the opportunity.
This was an interesting book to read. I have known the story of Samson and Delilah for many years, but this book gave it a new spin. The three women have compelling stories that will cause you to feel for them. You may also feel something for Samson and his propensity to make choices based on his desires. This book is great for individual readers, and I think groups would have fun discussing it. I received my free review copy from Net Galley and the publisher, and thank them for the opportunity.
June 2, 2013
Being a girl with a big enjoyment of Biblical fiction, I knew I wanted to give this book (and this author) a try as soon as I heard of it. It took a while, but then I got signed up to review Reign by the same author – and David C. Cook sent me all three of her books. I started with this one. You know, there aren’t just a whole lot of books about Samson and Delilah…so this one was definitely a first for me! It’s got a lot of fiction, but the Bible parts were well done. By fiction, I mean the author made up a lot of backstory and added in a lot of details – more than many Biblical fiction books I’ve read. However, most of those were about characters where we know more about their lives. Some of the material here was a little more descriptive about matters appropriate for more mature readers than most books like this that I’ve read – nothing really bad, but I’d still only recommend for 17+. The switching view points did a good job conveying the thoughts of each individual woman, but they also annoyed me a lot sometimes…it was a lot of switching, and not always completely smooth. At the end of the day? It was a good book, very interesting, well-written, and I enjoyed it.
**The publisher sent me this book as a complimentary copy. I wasn’t required to review it, wasn’t reimbursed for doing so, and wasn’t obligated to review it positively.**
**The publisher sent me this book as a complimentary copy. I wasn’t required to review it, wasn’t reimbursed for doing so, and wasn’t obligated to review it positively.**
July 5, 2016
I had a very hard time reading this book. It took me months to finish it. Not because the writing was awful or there were too many typos. None of that existed to me. It was Samson's first wife, his mother, but most of all Delilah's childhood and adulthood. The suffering at the hands of the people you trust is extremely hard to bear. I didn't find it hard to understand her as a person. I appreciate the fact that Ginger Garrett creates a new understanding of biblical characters through her writing style. The struggles that Samson, Delilah, Samson's parents, etc obviously went through in scripture is expanded upon. Despite the hard time I had reading it, I very much like this book. It reminded me that my personal experiences do not have to hold me back. Growth is important and we all grow from our past. Delilah's point of view was good. As was Samson's mother's point of view. Samson's first wife's point of view wasn't bad either. It took me awhile to remember that he was married before Delilah. I think that all of the characters were portrayed well. In my opinion this is a nice book for new believers and people who have believed for years. Garrett encourages readers to read the book that this story is inspired by. I encourage that as well.
March 25, 2012
Desired is written by Ginger Garrett and published by David C Cook.
This book was not at all what I expected. That is not a good thing. The book is about Samson, the man from the Bible that we remember from the story of him getting his hair cut and losing his strength. This book comes from a different angle in retelling the story by centering on the viewpoint of three women in Samson’s life.
I felt like the details of some of the scenes were a bit much. It was an over dramatic retelling of the story. It is nothing like any Christian fiction I have read before. I would not recommend this book for everyone. The language is a bit graphic sometimes, not what you would call bad language but more in the descriptive words used.
The flow of the story helped make the read bearable. The book itself was well written meaning there were no scenes left out and the story made sense. I will not be reading this book again but if you want a different viewpoint of the story of Samson you might want to try it for yourself.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
This book was not at all what I expected. That is not a good thing. The book is about Samson, the man from the Bible that we remember from the story of him getting his hair cut and losing his strength. This book comes from a different angle in retelling the story by centering on the viewpoint of three women in Samson’s life.
I felt like the details of some of the scenes were a bit much. It was an over dramatic retelling of the story. It is nothing like any Christian fiction I have read before. I would not recommend this book for everyone. The language is a bit graphic sometimes, not what you would call bad language but more in the descriptive words used.
The flow of the story helped make the read bearable. The book itself was well written meaning there were no scenes left out and the story made sense. I will not be reading this book again but if you want a different viewpoint of the story of Samson you might want to try it for yourself.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
June 6, 2013
The title of this book is a bit misleading, I think. It actually tells the stories of both of Samson's loves: his Philistine wife as well as Delilah. Each story was told from the point of view of Samson's mother and the woman. The stories stayed very true to the Biblical account, and I really enjoyed seeing how the author fleshed out the story by giving the women lives, thoughts, emotions, and details to make them real people. Anyone who enjoys Biblical fiction will enjoy this book. And anyone who just enjoys romantic historical fiction will also enjoy it. While it is based on the Bible story, it is not preachy or overly religious. I think the author did a great job including the religious aspect in a way that was appropriate and true to the story without adding it simply for the sake of it being there. Also, in spite of the sexual nature of the story, it was well written without being lewd or raunchy. I definitely recommend this book.
May 6, 2013
I love good historical fiction and am especially intrigued when authors take real people's lives and 'flesh out' their story. 'Desired' is a story about Samson and Delilah. Actually, it's the story of Samson, and the 3 women who loved him: his mother, his wife, and Delilah.
I liked how the author used different points of view to tell her story. She brought us into the minds of 'Mother', of Amara, and of Delilah. We got to see each one's reactions to who Samson was and what he did.
I'm familiar with Samson because I've read his story several times in my Bible studies, but it was intriguing to read and think about what could have happened behind the scenes. The author of this book has also written the 'diaries' of Queen Esther, and I'm definitely looking forward to reading that!
I liked how the author used different points of view to tell her story. She brought us into the minds of 'Mother', of Amara, and of Delilah. We got to see each one's reactions to who Samson was and what he did.
I'm familiar with Samson because I've read his story several times in my Bible studies, but it was intriguing to read and think about what could have happened behind the scenes. The author of this book has also written the 'diaries' of Queen Esther, and I'm definitely looking forward to reading that!
December 21, 2011
This book is moving to say the least. The writer knows how to pull you in and physically feel what the characters are experiencing. I enjoyed viewing Samson in this light, the gentleness of the giant as well as the overwhelming surge of power dispersed on him at the moment of battle. This story is graced with a mothers love and devotion, and the awe of one woman, the betrayal of another. The pace is well set in this book too. You don't feel like your rushed or held back with this authors pace. Well written and enjoyable read. Thus, I give the book 5 stars.
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