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The Ark and the Dove: The Story of Noah's Wife
Zara and Noah have walked together with the Creator for their entire lives, and they have done their best in an increasingly wicked and defiant world to raise their three sons to follow in their footsteps. It has been a challenge--and it's about to get much, much harder.
When the Creator tells her husband to build an ark to escape the coming wrath against the sins of humankind, Zara steps out with him in faith. But the derision and sabotage directed their way from both friends and extended family are difficult to bear, as is knowing that everyone she interacts with beyond her husband, her sons, and their wives is doomed to destruction. And when the ark is finally finished and the animals have been shut up inside, Zara and her family embark on an adventure that will test their patience and their faith as they await deliverance and dry ground.
Experience the story of Noah and the flood like you never have before. With bestselling and award-winning author Jill Eileen Smith as your guide, you'll never look at a rainbow the same way again.
When the Creator tells her husband to build an ark to escape the coming wrath against the sins of humankind, Zara steps out with him in faith. But the derision and sabotage directed their way from both friends and extended family are difficult to bear, as is knowing that everyone she interacts with beyond her husband, her sons, and their wives is doomed to destruction. And when the ark is finally finished and the animals have been shut up inside, Zara and her family embark on an adventure that will test their patience and their faith as they await deliverance and dry ground.
Experience the story of Noah and the flood like you never have before. With bestselling and award-winning author Jill Eileen Smith as your guide, you'll never look at a rainbow the same way again.
336 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2024
55 people are currently reading
3766 people want to read
About the author
Jill Eileen Smith
28 books1,479 followersJill Eileen Smith is the bestselling, award-winning author of the Wives of King David series, the Wives of the Patriarchs, Daughters of the Promised Land, Heart of a King, Star of Persia, Miriam's Song, The Prince and the Prodigal, Daughter of Eden, and The Ark and the Dove. Her research has taken her from the Bible to Israel, and she particularly enjoys learning how women lived in Bible times.
When she isn’t writing, she loves to spend time with her family and friends, read stories that take her away, ride her bike to the park, snag date nights with her hubby, try out new restaurants, or play with her lovable cats Kody and Kaelee. Jill lives with her family in southeast Michigan.
Contact Jill through email (jill@jilleileensmith.com), her website (http://www.jilleileensmith.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jilleileensmith), or Twitter (https://twitter.com/JillEileenSmith).
When she isn’t writing, she loves to spend time with her family and friends, read stories that take her away, ride her bike to the park, snag date nights with her hubby, try out new restaurants, or play with her lovable cats Kody and Kaelee. Jill lives with her family in southeast Michigan.
Contact Jill through email (jill@jilleileensmith.com), her website (http://www.jilleileensmith.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jilleileensmith), or Twitter (https://twitter.com/JillEileenSmith).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
September 27, 2024
Why I chose to read this book:
1. earlier this year, a GR friend's review influenced me to add this book to my WTR list since I usually enjoy Biblical fiction;
2. my sister, who also read this book, purchased a hardcopy as a birthday gift for me; and;
3. September 2024 is my "Fauna Titles" Month.
Praises:
1. author Jill Eileen Smith writes an interesting perspective of what day-to-day life may have been like for women, like Noah's wife, Zara, several millennia ago. Specifically, I liked reading about the possible interactions between the eight people living in close quarters while on the ark for over a year. It was also enlightening to visualize how the animals arrived at the ark, and how they were cared for during their lengthy stay;
2. I got a better sense of the time frame needed to build the ark, and the massive preparations required to sustain both animal and human life on board; and,
3. from this story, I could imagine the ridicule and loss of familial bonds Noah and his family must've endured as others became uneasy and disbelieving of Noah's intentions.
Niggles:
1. I thought detailed descriptiveness was majorly lacking in this story. For example:
- I never got a true sense of how wicked/evil society became at this time so that a flood was warranted to destroy it all. Nephilim and the Watchers were mentioned, but without any online research, I wouldn't have known what these beings were, as they just seemed to be in the background;
- intense anger, disgust, violence, etc. would've made this story much more believable. Any sabotage to the ark seemed minor;
- I really couldn't visualize the settings - the homes, the land, the ark itself with its sights, sounds, and smells on board;
2. such a touchy-feely family! I was getting extremely annoyed with the excessive repetitiveness of how someone was laying their hands over another's, cupping of someone's shoulder, wrapping someone in their arms, holding someone close (and on and on and on.) Also, I couldn't understand the purpose of having a character "looking beyond her" or "gazing in the distance" while conversing with another, when there wasn't anything worthwhile to look at;
3. the perspective wasn't always through Zara's eyes, although the subtitle is The Story of Noah's Wife. Instead, we hear POV from various characters;
4. more research was needed for the "little things". According to Smith's timeline, Noah and his sons wouldn't have been building with iron and steel, considering that they were living during the Bronze Age, and nope, squash wouldn't have been served at meals since it is native to the New World (i.e. North America.) And why were the carnivorous animals fed grain while on the ark?; and,
5. why introduce potentially interesting characters (e.g. Ham's betrothed, Naavah) if nothing happens with them?
Overall Thoughts:
Sorry, GR friends (and Annette), but I'm an outlier here. I really wanted to love this story and looked forward to reading it. Personally, I think this book's premise has great potential; unfortunately, I feel that it was poorly delivered.
2 ⭐⭐ = okay read.
1. earlier this year, a GR friend's review influenced me to add this book to my WTR list since I usually enjoy Biblical fiction;
2. my sister, who also read this book, purchased a hardcopy as a birthday gift for me; and;
3. September 2024 is my "Fauna Titles" Month.
Praises:
1. author Jill Eileen Smith writes an interesting perspective of what day-to-day life may have been like for women, like Noah's wife, Zara, several millennia ago. Specifically, I liked reading about the possible interactions between the eight people living in close quarters while on the ark for over a year. It was also enlightening to visualize how the animals arrived at the ark, and how they were cared for during their lengthy stay;
2. I got a better sense of the time frame needed to build the ark, and the massive preparations required to sustain both animal and human life on board; and,
3. from this story, I could imagine the ridicule and loss of familial bonds Noah and his family must've endured as others became uneasy and disbelieving of Noah's intentions.
Niggles:
1. I thought detailed descriptiveness was majorly lacking in this story. For example:
- I never got a true sense of how wicked/evil society became at this time so that a flood was warranted to destroy it all. Nephilim and the Watchers were mentioned, but without any online research, I wouldn't have known what these beings were, as they just seemed to be in the background;
- intense anger, disgust, violence, etc. would've made this story much more believable. Any sabotage to the ark seemed minor;
- I really couldn't visualize the settings - the homes, the land, the ark itself with its sights, sounds, and smells on board;
2. such a touchy-feely family! I was getting extremely annoyed with the excessive repetitiveness of how someone was laying their hands over another's, cupping of someone's shoulder, wrapping someone in their arms, holding someone close (and on and on and on.) Also, I couldn't understand the purpose of having a character "looking beyond her" or "gazing in the distance" while conversing with another, when there wasn't anything worthwhile to look at;
3. the perspective wasn't always through Zara's eyes, although the subtitle is The Story of Noah's Wife. Instead, we hear POV from various characters;
4. more research was needed for the "little things". According to Smith's timeline, Noah and his sons wouldn't have been building with iron and steel, considering that they were living during the Bronze Age, and nope, squash wouldn't have been served at meals since it is native to the New World (i.e. North America.) And why were the carnivorous animals fed grain while on the ark?; and,
5. why introduce potentially interesting characters (e.g. Ham's betrothed, Naavah) if nothing happens with them?
Overall Thoughts:
Sorry, GR friends (and Annette), but I'm an outlier here. I really wanted to love this story and looked forward to reading it. Personally, I think this book's premise has great potential; unfortunately, I feel that it was poorly delivered.
2 ⭐⭐ = okay read.
February 27, 2024
Set in 2275 BC and focussing on judgement, choices, faith and family, Author Jill Eileen Smith's story follows Noah ben Lamech and his family as they follow God's instructions to build the ark. Her thoroughly engaging story, using the bible as a guideline, invites readers to journey with Noah’s wife, Zara, through the ark experience and into life after disembarkation.
Even with little knowledge of the Bible, many of us know Noah’s story. It’s intrigued me for years, wondering what it was like to live with ridicule while the ark was being built, what it was like to capture and secure animals, how noisy it must have been within, what it was like to have no other people to communicate with except for one’s own family, and how Noah’s family coped with the transition to life on land after such an experience. Very little is mentioned about the account in the bible - Noah’s wife and daughters-in-law aren’t even named.
I enjoyed reading about how their faith was tested, what it must have been like to leave people behind, how they learned patience and worked together to survive despite all the different personalities and being in an enclosed location for so long, how they felt when they disembarked and the boys and families separated. I wasn’t blessed with children, but I felt Zara’s struggle in keeping her family together and dealing with division within. Motherhood from the beginning of time has been the twinning of joy and sorrow.
Three things made an impact:
(1) Sin boarded the ark! I’d never considered this.
(2) reading about Zara’s struggles and how she pushed through with prayer. Yes, she complained. Yes, she went to others for advice. Yes, she tried to fix things herself. BUT, she comes to the place where she knows that God is the only one who can help.
(3) How even back then, people thought that sin had increased in their time. We often hear it today and we can see it, but I’d never considered that Noah and his wife could see the devastation around them. How much more it would have hurt God to see this happening! I appreciated the warning that God will not always strive with humanity.
"The world was not like it had been when I was young. And I did not like what it had become."
This was my first introduction to this author and I’d gladly read another of her biblical fiction novels. I have assembled a list of things to investigate and appreciate an author whose work points me back to the bible and to further investigations.
I was gifted this copy by Revell and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Even with little knowledge of the Bible, many of us know Noah’s story. It’s intrigued me for years, wondering what it was like to live with ridicule while the ark was being built, what it was like to capture and secure animals, how noisy it must have been within, what it was like to have no other people to communicate with except for one’s own family, and how Noah’s family coped with the transition to life on land after such an experience. Very little is mentioned about the account in the bible - Noah’s wife and daughters-in-law aren’t even named.
I enjoyed reading about how their faith was tested, what it must have been like to leave people behind, how they learned patience and worked together to survive despite all the different personalities and being in an enclosed location for so long, how they felt when they disembarked and the boys and families separated. I wasn’t blessed with children, but I felt Zara’s struggle in keeping her family together and dealing with division within. Motherhood from the beginning of time has been the twinning of joy and sorrow.
Three things made an impact:
(1) Sin boarded the ark! I’d never considered this.
(2) reading about Zara’s struggles and how she pushed through with prayer. Yes, she complained. Yes, she went to others for advice. Yes, she tried to fix things herself. BUT, she comes to the place where she knows that God is the only one who can help.
(3) How even back then, people thought that sin had increased in their time. We often hear it today and we can see it, but I’d never considered that Noah and his wife could see the devastation around them. How much more it would have hurt God to see this happening! I appreciated the warning that God will not always strive with humanity.
"The world was not like it had been when I was young. And I did not like what it had become."
This was my first introduction to this author and I’d gladly read another of her biblical fiction novels. I have assembled a list of things to investigate and appreciate an author whose work points me back to the bible and to further investigations.
I was gifted this copy by Revell and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
February 27, 2024
When I first saw this book I knew I wanted to read it. I know Noah, the ark and the flood covers a lot of years in the Bible and I wasn’t sure what to expect. I enjoyed reading the Author’s Wives of King David series so I knew this story would be good too. It was very well researched and the Author did a fantastic job of blending a wonderful story around actual facts from the book of Noah.
I thought it was realistic, entertaining, emotional, interesting and intriguing. The characters lived long lives and I was surprised that people who were a hundred years old were described as young. Noah himself was over six hundred years at the books ending.
Readers are taken through the years of preparation for the flood. The characters were organized and knowledgeable on how to construct a huge ark and furnish it to accommodate numerous animals and a living quarters for Noah’s family. I enjoyed reading this book as the story worked its way through the pages. Very well written!
I recommend The Ark and the Dove to readers of Christian Fiction, Fictional Stories built around Biblical history, and fans of the Author. This book is scheduled to be released on 2/27/24.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
#TheArkandtheDove #NetGalley
I thought it was realistic, entertaining, emotional, interesting and intriguing. The characters lived long lives and I was surprised that people who were a hundred years old were described as young. Noah himself was over six hundred years at the books ending.
Readers are taken through the years of preparation for the flood. The characters were organized and knowledgeable on how to construct a huge ark and furnish it to accommodate numerous animals and a living quarters for Noah’s family. I enjoyed reading this book as the story worked its way through the pages. Very well written!
I recommend The Ark and the Dove to readers of Christian Fiction, Fictional Stories built around Biblical history, and fans of the Author. This book is scheduled to be released on 2/27/24.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
#TheArkandtheDove #NetGalley
February 9, 2024
The Ark and the Dove is based on the story of Noah and the Ark in the Bible where God sent a flood to cover the earth and destroy all living beings. White it is a fictional story based on the biblical story, it is fleshed out in more details about what each member of Noah's family probably encountered individually and as a family. Noah was scoffed and laughed at for his preachings that God had given him. God was saddened by the evil in the world and sent a flood to destroy those who rejected Him. All people were given the chance to accept the Creator, but no one accepted Him other than Noah, his wife, sons, and daughters-in-law. Noah was a righteous man and obeyed God by building something large enough for his family, animals of all kinds on the earth, and supplies, with no idea of how long the flood would last. The author did a wonderful job of sensing emotions, struggles, personality conflicts within the family, and the constant tending of the animals-of putting us on the ark through this time. We have the rainbow as a promise from God that He will never send a flood to kill all living beings on the earth again. Very thought provoking and interesting as well as emotional.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
February 19, 2024
This is a review for The Ark and the Dove by Jill Eileen Smith, and its a review for NetGalley in return for my honest opinion. I absolutely loved this book! It was so well written, so thought provoking, and the author told the story of Noah in a way that was true to the Bible. She took the basic story from Genesis 6 as her foundation, and then weaved a beautiful tapestry filled with biblical truth, but also through her characters made the story of Noah come alive as never before. The characters shared feelings that were real, and sometimes filled with doubt and pain, but always came back to trusting the Creator and His plan. This story really made me really slow down, and think about what Noah and his family must have gone through, and I was able to do that through each character, as the author gave each character a name, and they all had their own story to tell. Even though it is a fictional story, I was able to really relate to each character, and even though they had a lot of struggles, they united as a family, not perfectly as they were normal, but realized the only way through all God was asking of them was to work together! I also really loved how the author shared God's love alongside His judgment! He never wanted to destroy His beloved, and gave the people, through Noah, many opportunities to be saved, as He does today out of His great love for all His creation! And I also loved Noah's obedience...God spoke and he obeyed. His family doubted and struggled, but they persevered, trusted God, worked together, and then watched as God kept all His promises! So all that being said, this book was a complete joy to read, and is going on my favorites list alongside the authors previous book Daughter of Eden, and I give it 5 stars, and highly, highly recommend it! It really is a great book, and I loved it!
February 11, 2024
I had no idea how much labor and material would be needed to rebuild their way of life after the floods. Frankly, I was astonished at how much work awaited Noah and his family after their unimaginable adventure of forty days and forty nights on the ark. With so few people, there was a lot of work to be done. Then there was everything they experienced while traveling on the ark with hundreds of animals. It was amazing to learn about the enormous effort of providing for, feeding, and maintaining the health and happiness of these creatures.
I like how the author describes the emotions that Noah's family could have had as they went about their regular chores, building the ark, looking after one another and then the animals both before and after the flood. The author states that as she was conducting research, she went to the reconstructed ark in Kentucky. She said it's enormous, but no one could truly understand what transpired during and after Noah's 40 days and 40 nights adventure, as well as the year they spent on the ark following the flood,
They prepared for their city and way of life to be reconstructed following the flood. It was astounding to realize how little help would be available for what was required in rebuilding. This story compelled me to go back and read everything there was about Noah and his family in the bible. This detailed description of Noah, his household, and his dedication to the Creator was eye opening. Reading this narrative gave me a fresh perspective. You will gain a new insight into Noah's family, their hardships, and their hopes. You should check it out. It's an outstanding pick for a book club.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
I like how the author describes the emotions that Noah's family could have had as they went about their regular chores, building the ark, looking after one another and then the animals both before and after the flood. The author states that as she was conducting research, she went to the reconstructed ark in Kentucky. She said it's enormous, but no one could truly understand what transpired during and after Noah's 40 days and 40 nights adventure, as well as the year they spent on the ark following the flood,
They prepared for their city and way of life to be reconstructed following the flood. It was astounding to realize how little help would be available for what was required in rebuilding. This story compelled me to go back and read everything there was about Noah and his family in the bible. This detailed description of Noah, his household, and his dedication to the Creator was eye opening. Reading this narrative gave me a fresh perspective. You will gain a new insight into Noah's family, their hardships, and their hopes. You should check it out. It's an outstanding pick for a book club.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
March 5, 2024
“God’s timing is never wrong.”
☕📚
This is a new release of February 27, 2024, by Jill Eileen Smith.
Wow. This is my very first biblical fiction book and it did not disappoint! The biggest compliment I can give the author is that she made the details that MAY have happened so interesting AND it made me reach for my bible many times to see what details the Lord DID share.
WHAT’S TO LOVE? A wonderful addition to this book was the prelude and interludes, written in the first person POV of Noah’s wife of her thoughts and concerns. I enjoyed her perspective throughout and could relate to her soft heart for the people that she loved.
I also love how the storyline emphasizes Noah’s incredible obedience to God but that he was also a flawed human.
I’ve always been a bit confused about the “drunken, naked Noah” scene and why he got so mad that he cursed his grandchild. This book helped all of that make sense.
Whether you are an Old Testament nerd or don’t have much memory of it (except very popular bible stories from childhood), it’s effortless to understand what goes on. There is some lineage talk at the beginning and end, but not much in the middle - just the story of what life may have been like before, during, and after the flood.
It was SO fun to imagine it all! I enjoyed how the Author chose to end the book. Her note at the end was fascinating as well. Well done.
CAUSE FOR PAUSE? I did not enjoy how points of view would change within the chapter, from one paragraph to the next - with no warning. I finally caught on and paid better attention so that I wouldn’t get confused as to who was having a thought or speaking.
The arguing and drama between the wives got to be old after a while, even though I knew there was a foreshadowing of why one wife was more difficult to deal with than the others. And let’s be honest… more than one woman for that long… it was realistic. (haha)
CONSIDER READING IF… you want to get lost in an ancient story or long to imagine what it must have been like for people we’ve read about in God’s word. If you are a Christian who loves any type of history, I think you will like this a lot! 😀
MY RATING 🌟🌟🌟🌟 This released on February 27, 2024.
☕📚 Thanks to Revell and NetGalley. I received a complimentary ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. ☕📚
This is a new release of February 27, 2024, by Jill Eileen Smith.
Wow. This is my very first biblical fiction book and it did not disappoint! The biggest compliment I can give the author is that she made the details that MAY have happened so interesting AND it made me reach for my bible many times to see what details the Lord DID share.
WHAT’S TO LOVE? A wonderful addition to this book was the prelude and interludes, written in the first person POV of Noah’s wife of her thoughts and concerns. I enjoyed her perspective throughout and could relate to her soft heart for the people that she loved.
I also love how the storyline emphasizes Noah’s incredible obedience to God but that he was also a flawed human.
I’ve always been a bit confused about the “drunken, naked Noah” scene and why he got so mad that he cursed his grandchild. This book helped all of that make sense.
Whether you are an Old Testament nerd or don’t have much memory of it (except very popular bible stories from childhood), it’s effortless to understand what goes on. There is some lineage talk at the beginning and end, but not much in the middle - just the story of what life may have been like before, during, and after the flood.
It was SO fun to imagine it all! I enjoyed how the Author chose to end the book. Her note at the end was fascinating as well. Well done.
CAUSE FOR PAUSE? I did not enjoy how points of view would change within the chapter, from one paragraph to the next - with no warning. I finally caught on and paid better attention so that I wouldn’t get confused as to who was having a thought or speaking.
The arguing and drama between the wives got to be old after a while, even though I knew there was a foreshadowing of why one wife was more difficult to deal with than the others. And let’s be honest… more than one woman for that long… it was realistic. (haha)
CONSIDER READING IF… you want to get lost in an ancient story or long to imagine what it must have been like for people we’ve read about in God’s word. If you are a Christian who loves any type of history, I think you will like this a lot! 😀
MY RATING 🌟🌟🌟🌟 This released on February 27, 2024.
☕📚 Thanks to Revell and NetGalley. I received a complimentary ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. ☕📚
March 25, 2024
I adore Jill Eileen Smith’s books and the way she makes the Bible come alive. In her latest Biblical fiction, The Ark and the Dove, she shares the compelling story of Noah & his family before, during, & after the Flood.
I loved the fresh, new perspectives on this familiar story. Building the ark would have been so scary with people actively trying to destroy it. I enjoyed how she captured the suspenseful atmosphere of that time. I also loved how she expanded on the personalities of Noah and his family.
The story is told mostly from Noah’s wife Zara’s point of view. While we don’t know much about her from the Bible, the author created a believable, compelling narrative. Zara’s and her daughters-in-law’s thoughts on leaving loved ones behind who wouldn’t change their ways drove home how difficult leaving on the ark would have been. There’s one particular daughter-in-law who makes the journey less than enjoyable, and it made me more fully realize the challenges of dealing with imperfect people in a tight space for so long. Then there’s caring for all the animals!
Definitely recommend this book to those who enjoy historical fiction, particularly Biblical fiction. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
I loved the fresh, new perspectives on this familiar story. Building the ark would have been so scary with people actively trying to destroy it. I enjoyed how she captured the suspenseful atmosphere of that time. I also loved how she expanded on the personalities of Noah and his family.
The story is told mostly from Noah’s wife Zara’s point of view. While we don’t know much about her from the Bible, the author created a believable, compelling narrative. Zara’s and her daughters-in-law’s thoughts on leaving loved ones behind who wouldn’t change their ways drove home how difficult leaving on the ark would have been. There’s one particular daughter-in-law who makes the journey less than enjoyable, and it made me more fully realize the challenges of dealing with imperfect people in a tight space for so long. Then there’s caring for all the animals!
Definitely recommend this book to those who enjoy historical fiction, particularly Biblical fiction. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
July 22, 2024
I'm SUCH a fan of this author! I just love how descriptive her writing is, and how well she develops characters! I truly felt like I was there when Noah was building the ark! I felt like the book was divided in appropriate parts, and really appreciated the timeline the book covered. I was wondering if I would be weighed down with the details of the building of the ark, since we know it took so very long and God gave such specific instructions, but this part was well written and it didn't feel boring to read at all. At first, I grew a little curious and annoyed as to why Keziahs character had to be written as it was, but quickly realized why the author created and wrote that character the way she did. Near the end, I thought that it was actually brilliant the way she worked what she did into Keziahs story. I really just loved Zaras character so much and found she reminded me just a bit of Eve from Daughter of Eden. I would definitely recommend this book to those who love biblical fiction.
December 25, 2023
I loved The ark and the Dove! The Bible does not give many details of life on the Ark. Jill Eileen Smith has done a fantastic job of filling in possibilities of what may have transpired during that time. Questions on how they handled feeding and watering the animals and themselves. How they handled all of the waste products. The grief they felt at losing everyone but the 8 of them. Most of all how they kept their faith in the Creator. I highly recommend the Ark and the Dove!
This book releases February 27, 2024. I suggest you pre-order it and block off a weekend to read it!
I was given a copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
This book releases February 27, 2024. I suggest you pre-order it and block off a weekend to read it!
I was given a copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
November 16, 2023
This is a fascinating, extraordinary story of Noah and the ark. Anyone familiar with the Bible, and even if you are not, many people know the story of Noah who fulfilled a covenant with God to build an ark. God saw how corrupt and evil, and world had become, and chose Noah, who was a righteous man, for such an important job. Noah received specific instructions from God, the Creator, of how exactly to build the ark and also directions to bring two of every creature, including birds, both male and female into the ark.
With only the help of his three sons, it took Noah 120 years to complete the ark. Although Noah continued to preach about the Creator, warning of the coming flood, the people continued to worship false idols and persisted in their wicked ways. They were warned the flood would destroy everything, and everybody, however not one other person joined them on the ark. Noah and his family were mocked and laughed at for believing such foolishness.
The story of Noah’s Ark will never be the same for me. This beautiful story brings to life Noah and Zara, and their three sons and their wives. They face many difficulties, including personal differences in personalities, especially in the three wives of their sons. They all live together, work together and support each other through challenging times, however, they persevere.
God send the rainbow as His promise never to flood the world again. A rainbow will never be the same to me again. It will feel much more personal, and I can’t wait until I see the next one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed and all remarks are my own.
With only the help of his three sons, it took Noah 120 years to complete the ark. Although Noah continued to preach about the Creator, warning of the coming flood, the people continued to worship false idols and persisted in their wicked ways. They were warned the flood would destroy everything, and everybody, however not one other person joined them on the ark. Noah and his family were mocked and laughed at for believing such foolishness.
The story of Noah’s Ark will never be the same for me. This beautiful story brings to life Noah and Zara, and their three sons and their wives. They face many difficulties, including personal differences in personalities, especially in the three wives of their sons. They all live together, work together and support each other through challenging times, however, they persevere.
God send the rainbow as His promise never to flood the world again. A rainbow will never be the same to me again. It will feel much more personal, and I can’t wait until I see the next one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed and all remarks are my own.
May 1, 2024
I don't know that I've ever actually read a novel about Noah's wife and what her experience might have been like with the building of the ark and then living on it for many months. I think the way the author portrayed Zara, Noah, and the other characters was very well done, and definitely made me wonder more about what really happened.
I especially appreciated the reminder that the rainbow is God's covenant promise of redemption to those who trust in Him.
4.5 stars
I especially appreciated the reminder that the rainbow is God's covenant promise of redemption to those who trust in Him.
4.5 stars
March 18, 2024
I would think biblical fiction would be one of the hardest genres to write, with wanting to stay accurate to the Bible and then filling in what could have happened when the Bible simply does not tell us. This was definitely a book that made me think about the time of Noah, why God chose to destroy the earth while saving one man and his family and the different familial relationships that would have intersected, especially while trapped on the ark for days on end, with plenty to do but no where to escape. I am so glad I read this book and thought, really though, about what life would have been like back then.
I was given this book as a complimentary copy but was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.
I was given this book as a complimentary copy but was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.
January 3, 2024
3.5 stars (4 for goodreads)
I don't typically choose biblical fiction to read. I find that I get uncomfortable with many of the assumptions that can get made regarding behavior, character, and emotions of well known bible characters. I do have a few exceptions in that with some favorite authors...but on the whole, I prefer to read biblical fiction on minor events or minor characters that allows for the authors imagination.
I picked The Ark and the Dove because of the fact it was going to imagine life as Noah's wife. The book covers are VERY VERY large time period--from about 75 years before the flood to several hundred years AFTER the flood with the Tower of Babel. The book jumps between 6 of the 8 main characters: Noah and his wife; Shem and his wife; and Ham and his wife.
When the story opens, it's the wedding day of one of the sons. On that day or shortly thereafter, NOah receives the detailed instructions on building the ark--and that only the eight family members are going to be on the ark. Since Ham isn't married yet, there is also a rush to find him a wife (which causes issues of its own).
Throughout the book, there is very heavy discussion of faith by Noah's wife Zara, Noah, their sons, and the wives and future wives. Also included is Methuselah and Lamech: Noah's grandfather and father. I think this was the first thing that made me hesitate with the book. The bible says NOTHING about whether or not Methuselah and Lamech were believers of God. Likewise, we only are given that Noah is faithful---but nothing about his wife or family.
Secondly there were the weird characters called Watchers--who are obviously demons--who influence mankind to sin and follow after idols.
The book VERY VERY VERY heavily implies that there is no way Noah's family (not just Noah) could be the only ones who were righteous and that surely there were some who "called on God" when the flood came. This is the part of speculation that I'm not a fan of.
The author very clearly describes the ark as it is set up at the Ark Encounter in Cincinnati--she shares that she was inspired by it in the Author's notes. What she included that many who write about the ark do not--that there were more than just a pair of each set of animals. That God included 7 PAIR of clean animals and one pair of unclean animals. I think she had believable supposition that many of the larger animals were probably more juvenile in size. I snickered at the tyrannosaurus getting on the boat.
Now the hostility and dissent while on the ark is something I've also considered myself. So I didn't mind that. I think it's something many think of and wonder about. Likewise the depression and guilt they had--like Survivor's guilt.
The situation near the end of Noah's story with Ham and curing his lineage was a plausible presentation. It actually seemed a logical idea.
I must say that one thing I do appreciate about biblical fiction is that I do grab my Bible to compare. And so of COURSE I had to calculate how many generations Adam would have seen. Also how many generations Noah himself would have seen. For some reason I never really thought of the fact he'd have heard about the Tower of Babel or maybe even affected by the confusion of languages. Likewise I even calculated that Noah would have been alive until Abraham was 57! Crazy to put some of these guys into contemporaries with each other.
Overall--I'm just going to say 3.5 stars (4 stars for online websites) for this book. I liked it, but I didn't love it. I felt is was WAYYYYY to speculative at times and it detracted from the overall book and telling of the event.
*I received a complimentary copy of an ARC of this book by the publisher and NetGalley. I wasn't required to write a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own.
I don't typically choose biblical fiction to read. I find that I get uncomfortable with many of the assumptions that can get made regarding behavior, character, and emotions of well known bible characters. I do have a few exceptions in that with some favorite authors...but on the whole, I prefer to read biblical fiction on minor events or minor characters that allows for the authors imagination.
I picked The Ark and the Dove because of the fact it was going to imagine life as Noah's wife. The book covers are VERY VERY large time period--from about 75 years before the flood to several hundred years AFTER the flood with the Tower of Babel. The book jumps between 6 of the 8 main characters: Noah and his wife; Shem and his wife; and Ham and his wife.
When the story opens, it's the wedding day of one of the sons. On that day or shortly thereafter, NOah receives the detailed instructions on building the ark--and that only the eight family members are going to be on the ark. Since Ham isn't married yet, there is also a rush to find him a wife (which causes issues of its own).
Throughout the book, there is very heavy discussion of faith by Noah's wife Zara, Noah, their sons, and the wives and future wives. Also included is Methuselah and Lamech: Noah's grandfather and father. I think this was the first thing that made me hesitate with the book. The bible says NOTHING about whether or not Methuselah and Lamech were believers of God. Likewise, we only are given that Noah is faithful---but nothing about his wife or family.
Secondly there were the weird characters called Watchers--who are obviously demons--who influence mankind to sin and follow after idols.
The book VERY VERY VERY heavily implies that there is no way Noah's family (not just Noah) could be the only ones who were righteous and that surely there were some who "called on God" when the flood came. This is the part of speculation that I'm not a fan of.
The author very clearly describes the ark as it is set up at the Ark Encounter in Cincinnati--she shares that she was inspired by it in the Author's notes. What she included that many who write about the ark do not--that there were more than just a pair of each set of animals. That God included 7 PAIR of clean animals and one pair of unclean animals. I think she had believable supposition that many of the larger animals were probably more juvenile in size. I snickered at the tyrannosaurus getting on the boat.
Now the hostility and dissent while on the ark is something I've also considered myself. So I didn't mind that. I think it's something many think of and wonder about. Likewise the depression and guilt they had--like Survivor's guilt.
The situation near the end of Noah's story with Ham and curing his lineage was a plausible presentation. It actually seemed a logical idea.
I must say that one thing I do appreciate about biblical fiction is that I do grab my Bible to compare. And so of COURSE I had to calculate how many generations Adam would have seen. Also how many generations Noah himself would have seen. For some reason I never really thought of the fact he'd have heard about the Tower of Babel or maybe even affected by the confusion of languages. Likewise I even calculated that Noah would have been alive until Abraham was 57! Crazy to put some of these guys into contemporaries with each other.
Overall--I'm just going to say 3.5 stars (4 stars for online websites) for this book. I liked it, but I didn't love it. I felt is was WAYYYYY to speculative at times and it detracted from the overall book and telling of the event.
*I received a complimentary copy of an ARC of this book by the publisher and NetGalley. I wasn't required to write a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own.
March 10, 2024
The Ark and the Dove is a well-written story of Noah and his family that survived the flood. The author's descriptions of the Biblical setting and people of their time, made the story come alive for me.
The building of the ark and filling it with needed supplies and animals was exciting. To learn of their struggles made the book seem more real. There were parts of the story that moved me to tears and others that I rejoiced in the love of God.
It's an inspirational story that even though the Biblical version was written years ago, it is still relevant today and the story is a reminder. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher Revell. A positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.
The building of the ark and filling it with needed supplies and animals was exciting. To learn of their struggles made the book seem more real. There were parts of the story that moved me to tears and others that I rejoiced in the love of God.
It's an inspirational story that even though the Biblical version was written years ago, it is still relevant today and the story is a reminder. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher Revell. A positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.
January 21, 2024
The Ark and the Dove
4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I always appreciate the way Biblical Christian Fiction challenges me. We always talk about Noah and his faith, but what about his wife? She didn’t hear directly from God but had to trust. Had to support and help her husband, hear his fear and frustration.
This book dives into the life of Zara - Noah’s wife. Jill took the time to research the time, tour the Ark Encounter in Kentucky, and pour through the scriptures to develop and intriguing story of what life just must have been like. I so appreciated that the characters mourned their loved ones, argued amongst each other, and struggled to not know the full plan. All things we can relate to. Even though one of the daughter in laws got on my nerves as a character, who is to say that everyone got along great?
The reason for a 4 out of 5 stars is I felt the pace a little slow and jumbled. I wanted a little more but am also so thankful for thinking more about context when I read Genesis.
Thank you Jill and NetGalley for the ARC of
#TheArkandtheDove
4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I always appreciate the way Biblical Christian Fiction challenges me. We always talk about Noah and his faith, but what about his wife? She didn’t hear directly from God but had to trust. Had to support and help her husband, hear his fear and frustration.
This book dives into the life of Zara - Noah’s wife. Jill took the time to research the time, tour the Ark Encounter in Kentucky, and pour through the scriptures to develop and intriguing story of what life just must have been like. I so appreciated that the characters mourned their loved ones, argued amongst each other, and struggled to not know the full plan. All things we can relate to. Even though one of the daughter in laws got on my nerves as a character, who is to say that everyone got along great?
The reason for a 4 out of 5 stars is I felt the pace a little slow and jumbled. I wanted a little more but am also so thankful for thinking more about context when I read Genesis.
Thank you Jill and NetGalley for the ARC of
#TheArkandtheDove
March 16, 2024
Even with just the blurb, I never really felt like there was a plot setup. What I love about Biblical fiction is when it takes the Biblical moment/setting/scene and fictionalizes it to make it really come to life.
There was one plot moment that really drew me in early on, but even that felt somewhat unbelievable. Ham had to get betrothed, so he picked a girl from a different city who had walked into the shop. They got betrothed and a week before the wedding found out the betrothal was off. When they went to confront the father, they found out the Watchers had taken her. Realizing there was nothing they could do about it, they moved on. There was no plot resolution, no chase. She never came up again except for Ham to lament about not being able to marry her. I just felt like that whole plot point really had no place in the story, since it never came up again and really didn't correlate to anything.
I was confused about what/who the Watchers were, but they were never set up or explained.
I almost DNFed if, but I wanted to see if the plot improved or if there was more that happened. The big "plot" things that happened was Keziah never really trusting them. What really bugged me was there was never confrontation, everyone just walked on eggshells around her and blamed themselves for offending her.
Overall, the one thing I did really like was the cover. It's a gorgeous cover! But I felt like the story itself fell flat.
There was one plot moment that really drew me in early on, but even that felt somewhat unbelievable. Ham had to get betrothed, so he picked a girl from a different city who had walked into the shop. They got betrothed and a week before the wedding found out the betrothal was off. When they went to confront the father, they found out the Watchers had taken her. Realizing there was nothing they could do about it, they moved on. There was no plot resolution, no chase. She never came up again except for Ham to lament about not being able to marry her. I just felt like that whole plot point really had no place in the story, since it never came up again and really didn't correlate to anything.
I was confused about what/who the Watchers were, but they were never set up or explained.
I almost DNFed if, but I wanted to see if the plot improved or if there was more that happened. The big "plot" things that happened was Keziah never really trusting them. What really bugged me was there was never confrontation, everyone just walked on eggshells around her and blamed themselves for offending her.
Overall, the one thing I did really like was the cover. It's a gorgeous cover! But I felt like the story itself fell flat.
February 21, 2024
This is my second book by this author, and I'm not sure that her writing is for me. I ultimately ended up DNF'ing at about 30% in. I could not connect with the characters and felt like the narrative just randomly bounced around from person to person with no real direction. Some things were not explained well like the "watchers," for example. What is a watcher? What is their purpose? Why is no one sad or trying to rescue the girl Ham wanted to marry? The whole finding Ham a wife also felt forced to me. Like he had to find a wife before the flood, and they weren't really concerned with her beliefs as long as she was willing to marry. I'm sure as the story continues, the faith elements were hashed out, but this just added to my frustration. I couldn't connect enough to want to continue but I do think that this will be a great read for other readers who enjoy her previous books, I just don't think she is the author for me. Thank you, NetGalley and Revell, for the opportunity to read and review this advanced copy.
December 29, 2023
I would never have thought to write a story about the life of Noah before, during, and after the Ark from his wife's perspective, but I'm glad Smith did in The Ark and the Dove. Filled with what I believe to,be appropriate biblical references, good descriptions of how people were pre-Flood and a little twist in the storyline that was quite unexpected, I found The Ark and the Dove to be a saga, but a fitting read and a tribute to Noah and his family with the added sadness that comes from being a wife and a mother. Written from Zara's, Noah's wife, point of view, I found The Ark and the Dove perfect and I believe anyone who loves biblical fiction will find it to also be a perfect read.
April 30, 2024
A multi generation story following the lives of Noah and his family through the eyes of his wife Zara.
If you love biblical fiction or thinking about trying it, Jill Eileen Smith's books are a must! Her books always make me want to go back to the original stories in the Bible and read them all over again. It was no different for this book. I loved seeing the timeline come to life. Seeing before the flood as well as events after the flood. I really liked the character of Zara and seeing the struggles of living an isolated life in a boat.
*thank you to Baker Publishing and Revell for a copy of this book to read and review. All thoughts are my own.
If you love biblical fiction or thinking about trying it, Jill Eileen Smith's books are a must! Her books always make me want to go back to the original stories in the Bible and read them all over again. It was no different for this book. I loved seeing the timeline come to life. Seeing before the flood as well as events after the flood. I really liked the character of Zara and seeing the struggles of living an isolated life in a boat.
*thank you to Baker Publishing and Revell for a copy of this book to read and review. All thoughts are my own.
March 23, 2024
This is a really interesting story of Noah's Ark through the eyes of his wife. It's a unique perspective on an ancient tale.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own;.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own;.
March 28, 2024
What was it about humans that made them want to stick together? Did they do so to build one another up or to stand against the Creator?
Everyone is familiar with the account of Noah's Ark. A popular children's story but when you really look at it, it can be terrifying. It would be a difficult story to be retold. How do you balance the human side while remaining true to what God was doing. This account starts with Noah's family and every day going on. Just like your family. A family that you love with the tension of the world around you. You have a sense of who Noah, his wife Zara and their 3 sons. It is not known by the bible the name of Noah's wife however, she is telling the account from her eyes and perspective.
There are some controversial takes that were implemented but I truly believe that it helps with why it happened. It also deals with the sin of Noah's youngest son and how that may have come about and why it is important. When I read historical fiction like this, it gives me a better grasp of the gospel and who God is. He is creator and judge. It also gives me a better grasp of how easily we deny the truth.
Jill Eileen Smith always gives insight to how she researched the account and some discoveries that she made. One of those was the genealogy of descendants. It is pretty amazing that God gave that to us and how important it is. It gives us confidence of the truth.
A special thank you to Revell and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Everyone is familiar with the account of Noah's Ark. A popular children's story but when you really look at it, it can be terrifying. It would be a difficult story to be retold. How do you balance the human side while remaining true to what God was doing. This account starts with Noah's family and every day going on. Just like your family. A family that you love with the tension of the world around you. You have a sense of who Noah, his wife Zara and their 3 sons. It is not known by the bible the name of Noah's wife however, she is telling the account from her eyes and perspective.
There are some controversial takes that were implemented but I truly believe that it helps with why it happened. It also deals with the sin of Noah's youngest son and how that may have come about and why it is important. When I read historical fiction like this, it gives me a better grasp of the gospel and who God is. He is creator and judge. It also gives me a better grasp of how easily we deny the truth.
Jill Eileen Smith always gives insight to how she researched the account and some discoveries that she made. One of those was the genealogy of descendants. It is pretty amazing that God gave that to us and how important it is. It gives us confidence of the truth.
A special thank you to Revell and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
December 18, 2024
The premise had promise. The delivery was lacking and elementary. I checked a couple times to make sure this wasn’t a young readers edition.
February 27, 2024
Good retelling of the ark. 👍
*Thanks to netgalley and publisher for ARC*
*Thanks to netgalley and publisher for ARC*
June 14, 2024
What a breathtaking read! 🥰
"And the LORD said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years.
And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.
But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD." Genesis 6:3, 5-6, 8 -KJV
This was a breathtaking read!
Reading "The Ark and The Dove" was like stepping back in time to the pre-flood world with Emzara, Noah and their family.
You could tell this story was well-researched, and it made for an EPIC read!!
There was so much attention to detail and
biblical accuracy that I really appreciated, and all the emotions they probably went through before and after the flood were well fleshed out.
To just imagine all the massive planning and prepping that went into building the Ark and getting it ready for them and the animals was mind boggling lol!
If you ever come through Kentucky, be sure to come check out The Ark Encounter like Jill did. It is awesome!
Kudos to the author on another great book release! The Ark and The Dove is my newest favorite of her books. 🥰
Thank you to Revell Publishing for the complimentary e-book I received to review through Netgalley. A positive review was not required of me, and the thoughts above are my own.
"And the LORD said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years.
And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.
But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD." Genesis 6:3, 5-6, 8 -KJV
This was a breathtaking read!
Reading "The Ark and The Dove" was like stepping back in time to the pre-flood world with Emzara, Noah and their family.
You could tell this story was well-researched, and it made for an EPIC read!!
There was so much attention to detail and
biblical accuracy that I really appreciated, and all the emotions they probably went through before and after the flood were well fleshed out.
To just imagine all the massive planning and prepping that went into building the Ark and getting it ready for them and the animals was mind boggling lol!
If you ever come through Kentucky, be sure to come check out The Ark Encounter like Jill did. It is awesome!
Kudos to the author on another great book release! The Ark and The Dove is my newest favorite of her books. 🥰
Thank you to Revell Publishing for the complimentary e-book I received to review through Netgalley. A positive review was not required of me, and the thoughts above are my own.
May 27, 2024
Beautiful cover, and a beautiful title.
The story didn't take off, for me at least, until about halfway through the book. It felt dry and more a rewriting of facts or possibilities, than it's own story, until that point. < 3
It was interesting reading about what life might have been like for those who were on the ark! Both before, during, and after.
The author's note was interesting! And her dedicated was bittersweet.
I've loved other books by this author, that I'd heartily recommend, such as Star of Persia! But I'm sorry to say I struggled to connect with this one.
The story didn't take off, for me at least, until about halfway through the book. It felt dry and more a rewriting of facts or possibilities, than it's own story, until that point. < 3
It was interesting reading about what life might have been like for those who were on the ark! Both before, during, and after.
The author's note was interesting! And her dedicated was bittersweet.
I've loved other books by this author, that I'd heartily recommend, such as Star of Persia! But I'm sorry to say I struggled to connect with this one.
January 3, 2024
“The Ark and the Dove” is the second book I have read by author Jill Eileen Smith. The first book I read was “Daughter of Eden”. I liked it so much that I was eager to read the advance digital review copy of “The Ark and the Dove.” And…”The Ark and the Dove” is even better.
Most people probably know the story of Noah’s Ark and many think of it as just a story for children. There are many toy versions of the Ark, with animals lined up two by two. The story of Noah and his family is not a cute story, it is true and shows us God’s power and might, and His compassion and love.
“The Ark and the Dove” is told from the point of view of Noah’s wife who the author calls “Zara”. (We know the names of Noah’s three sons, but not Noah’s wife’s name.) Zara’s story begins in 2275 B.C, (so over 4,000 years ago!) Zara shows us that the Flood is not a fairy tale or fable. And she shows us how real people reacted to the astounding news of the coming flood that would destroy everyone. Noah was a righteous man who the Creator favored so he and his wife, their 3 children and their wives were saved.
I was fascinated by the chapters that described how Noah and his family planned and built the Ark. They had to design and build the enormous Ark. They had to plan how to feed and care for thousands of animals. And they also had to consider how they would maintain their own food and water supplies. And they also planned for what they would need after they left the Ark. (I probably would have forgotten to think about that!)
I actually cried when I read about how sweetly and compliantly the animals listened to God and came two by two to the Ark. They were also well behaved on the Ark.
It took 125 years to build the Ark. All of this was done by regular people: Noah, Zara and their 3 sons and wives. And of course, as ordinary people they were tired, cranky, irritable and did selfish, hurtful things. None of them were good, they were all born with the nature to sin. Just like we are. They longed for the Redeemer to save them. And so He has come, but we haven’t changed that much since the time of Noah and Zara.
This book is well-written and tells the Biblical story in an engaging way. The story is also inspirational and encouraging and tells us about God and His plans and love for us. I highly recommend “The Ark and the Dove.” (Lovely cover, too!) Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance review copy. This is my honest review.
Most people probably know the story of Noah’s Ark and many think of it as just a story for children. There are many toy versions of the Ark, with animals lined up two by two. The story of Noah and his family is not a cute story, it is true and shows us God’s power and might, and His compassion and love.
“The Ark and the Dove” is told from the point of view of Noah’s wife who the author calls “Zara”. (We know the names of Noah’s three sons, but not Noah’s wife’s name.) Zara’s story begins in 2275 B.C, (so over 4,000 years ago!) Zara shows us that the Flood is not a fairy tale or fable. And she shows us how real people reacted to the astounding news of the coming flood that would destroy everyone. Noah was a righteous man who the Creator favored so he and his wife, their 3 children and their wives were saved.
I was fascinated by the chapters that described how Noah and his family planned and built the Ark. They had to design and build the enormous Ark. They had to plan how to feed and care for thousands of animals. And they also had to consider how they would maintain their own food and water supplies. And they also planned for what they would need after they left the Ark. (I probably would have forgotten to think about that!)
I actually cried when I read about how sweetly and compliantly the animals listened to God and came two by two to the Ark. They were also well behaved on the Ark.
It took 125 years to build the Ark. All of this was done by regular people: Noah, Zara and their 3 sons and wives. And of course, as ordinary people they were tired, cranky, irritable and did selfish, hurtful things. None of them were good, they were all born with the nature to sin. Just like we are. They longed for the Redeemer to save them. And so He has come, but we haven’t changed that much since the time of Noah and Zara.
This book is well-written and tells the Biblical story in an engaging way. The story is also inspirational and encouraging and tells us about God and His plans and love for us. I highly recommend “The Ark and the Dove.” (Lovely cover, too!) Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance review copy. This is my honest review.
October 10, 2025
The story of Noah and the Ark is a story that everyone knows. In The Ark and the Dove, the story focuses on Noah’s wife, Zara. Zara has been Noah’s wife for many years. One day, God tells Noah that there will be a great flood and that he needs to build an ark. All of Zara’s friends believe that Noah is crazy and distanced themselves from her. However, Zara trusts Noah and stands by him. Throughout Noah’s task, Zara’s faith in God grows stronger.
Even though Zara is the main character in this novel, she is not the main focus of this novel. Instead, it focuses on Noah, his sons, and daughters-in-law. So, I didn’t find Zara to be a compelling character and seemed to be a supporting character in the story. Zara is the matriarch. She loves her family deeply. She is very loyal and has a strong belief in God. She is very supportive of her family and encourages them in their troubles. I admired her strength and perseverance. However, I wished that more focus would have been on her.
Overall, this novel is about family, faith, and loyalty. The message of the book is to listen to God and obey His word. I thought the characters were very flat and did not have much development. The book is told from multiple character’s’ perspectives, and I found this narration to be a bit distracting. There were some parts of the story that went nowhere. I also wanted more scenes that show Zara and Noah’s relationship. I did like how the book follows the aftermath of what happened to Noah and Zara after the flood. The Ark and the Dove is a sweet and simple story. It is an enjoyable read for a Sunday afternoon! I recommend this book for fans of Rebecca Kanner, Tosca Lee, and Mesu Andrews!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)
Even though Zara is the main character in this novel, she is not the main focus of this novel. Instead, it focuses on Noah, his sons, and daughters-in-law. So, I didn’t find Zara to be a compelling character and seemed to be a supporting character in the story. Zara is the matriarch. She loves her family deeply. She is very loyal and has a strong belief in God. She is very supportive of her family and encourages them in their troubles. I admired her strength and perseverance. However, I wished that more focus would have been on her.
Overall, this novel is about family, faith, and loyalty. The message of the book is to listen to God and obey His word. I thought the characters were very flat and did not have much development. The book is told from multiple character’s’ perspectives, and I found this narration to be a bit distracting. There were some parts of the story that went nowhere. I also wanted more scenes that show Zara and Noah’s relationship. I did like how the book follows the aftermath of what happened to Noah and Zara after the flood. The Ark and the Dove is a sweet and simple story. It is an enjoyable read for a Sunday afternoon! I recommend this book for fans of Rebecca Kanner, Tosca Lee, and Mesu Andrews!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)
June 3, 2024
Jill Eileen Smith is getting better and better. This was one of my favorites, rivaling "Daughter of Eden." I closed the book marveling at God's grace in a whole new way. Like many, I had a good helicopter view of the story. But I had never considered that sin was still a very real presence in the lives of Noah and his family both before the flood and after! They bickered, they doubted, they questioned why their friends and families were lost to the flood, they feared the future and wondered how they would rebuild once they left the ark. Living on board a ship with thousands of animals and only each other for a whole year very likely revealed their sin in a whole new light, but it highlighted God's grace all the more. It was especially interesting to consider what it must have been like to navigate the logistics of feeding the animals, caring for them if they were wounded, cleaning up after their waste, while also cooking meals for themselves, preserving tools and artifacts from before the flood, and experiencing legitimate cabin fever. So many great things to ponder.
I always appreciate when an author's research is obvious, and Jill's thorough examining of the Scriptures and historical texts is once again apparent in "The Ark and the Dove." A great read. I can't wait for her next novel.
I always appreciate when an author's research is obvious, and Jill's thorough examining of the Scriptures and historical texts is once again apparent in "The Ark and the Dove." A great read. I can't wait for her next novel.
February 28, 2024
I cried so hard in the chapter or three before the flood actually happened, feeling the hopelessness of the women as they knew their families and friends were about to die. They'd grown very distant, yes. but the fate of lost loved ones hurts your heart even when they've cut you off from their lives already.
The author did such a great job with this story. It's a faithful retelling of the story of Noah, fleshed out with all the realistic emotions and heartaches, doubts and joys along the way.
It wasn't my favorite version of the scene with Noah and the time he had too much wine (I once read one where he was so overwhelmed by the thought of all the people lost), but it was still very good, with Ham and his wife egging Noah on to drink more than intended. I also felt bad for Ham, seemingly trapped between trying to appease his wife, and knowing she was causing problems.
The way the author included the fallout from Babel within Noah's lifetime is great! That detail is often overlooked, but the confusion of languages would have happened before he died.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and chose to review it here. All thoughts are my own
The author did such a great job with this story. It's a faithful retelling of the story of Noah, fleshed out with all the realistic emotions and heartaches, doubts and joys along the way.
It wasn't my favorite version of the scene with Noah and the time he had too much wine (I once read one where he was so overwhelmed by the thought of all the people lost), but it was still very good, with Ham and his wife egging Noah on to drink more than intended. I also felt bad for Ham, seemingly trapped between trying to appease his wife, and knowing she was causing problems.
The way the author included the fallout from Babel within Noah's lifetime is great! That detail is often overlooked, but the confusion of languages would have happened before he died.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and chose to review it here. All thoughts are my own
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