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In the Field of Grace
Without wealth or family, the widow Ruth left her people and followed Naomi, her beloved Hebrew mother-in-law, to rebuild Naomi's home in Israel. Provisions gone and starvation at the door, Ruth used all that she had left--a strong back and a willing heart--to gather grain in a field, abandoned after the harvest.
Tormented by others, Ruth is shocked to find the owner of the field watching her. Talking to her. Bringing food to her and Naomi. Boaz tells himself his kindness toward Ruth is repayment for the love she has shown to his cousin Naomi. But his heart knows better.
Tormented by others, Ruth is shocked to find the owner of the field watching her. Talking to her. Bringing food to her and Naomi. Boaz tells himself his kindness toward Ruth is repayment for the love she has shown to his cousin Naomi. But his heart knows better.
290 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2014
840 people are currently reading
5757 people want to read
About the author
Tessa Afshar
30 books3,883 followersTessa Afshar’s books have been translated into 11 languages, and been on Publishers Weekly and CBA bestseller lists. Her novel, Pearl in the Sand is the recipient of ECPA’s Bronze Milestone Sales Award. Tessa’s novels have won a number of awards including the Christy and INSPY, and been finalists for the Carol and the ECPA Christian Book Awards. Land of Silence was chosen as one of top five Christian fiction titles of the year by Library Journal. The Way Home, God’s Invitation to New Beginnings, is the winner of the Christian Book Award in the Bible Study category.
Tessa was born in the Middle East and lived there the first fourteen years of her life before attending boarding school for girls in England. She fell in love with Jesus after moving to the United States. Tessa and her husband live in New England where they tend their mediocre garden.
Tessa was born in the Middle East and lived there the first fourteen years of her life before attending boarding school for girls in England. She fell in love with Jesus after moving to the United States. Tessa and her husband live in New England where they tend their mediocre garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 700 reviews
September 11, 2024
I really enjoyed this story of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz. Tessa Afshar brought them to life and made them real with all of their hurts, pains, obstacles, love, triumphs, and happiness. I loved their commitment to God and each other. The narrator, Diana Gardiner, was wonderful and her voice was perfect for the story.
The edition that I listened to is published by Moody Publishers, released March 1, 2023. I purchased from Chirp.
The edition that I listened to is published by Moody Publishers, released March 1, 2023. I purchased from Chirp.
May 23, 2017
Enjoyable retelling of Naomi, Ruth and Boaz. The author brought the three of them to life in stellar fashion.
July 15, 2024
“If God spared us from the piercing shaft of every sorrow, we could never fulfill His best plans for our lives. Sometimes the sweetest things in life rise up out of the worst things in life.”
Things I needed to read:
💜"We travel through many wildernesses in life. Broken dreams, loss, grief. Sometimes there is nothing to comfort us but the hard stones of a lonely path. In those places, God seems so far away and distant. The way He does to Naomi right now. Yet, there is a ladder that touches down into the soil of our loneliest wilderness. The angels of the Lord ascend and descend upon it, and He is Himself watchful to give us aid.”
💜"There is only one measure of true success, child. How close you remain by His side. Does the dust of His feet get on your cloak because you follow so close? Does the sound of His whisper reverberate in your ear because you have drawn so near? Are you obedient to that voice, day after day, hour after hour?”
💜Sometimes we need to leave our past behind in order to move forward.
💜Surrender is not the same as despair.
💜Careful not to put limitations on God’s work; especially work being done in the lives of others.
It was good for me to read this book and learn of the lineage of Jesus. I was very familiar with the account in the bible, but unsure how the kinsman-redeemer worked out. The author explained it clearly. I was truly swept away by this retelling.
Things I needed to read:
💜"We travel through many wildernesses in life. Broken dreams, loss, grief. Sometimes there is nothing to comfort us but the hard stones of a lonely path. In those places, God seems so far away and distant. The way He does to Naomi right now. Yet, there is a ladder that touches down into the soil of our loneliest wilderness. The angels of the Lord ascend and descend upon it, and He is Himself watchful to give us aid.”
💜"There is only one measure of true success, child. How close you remain by His side. Does the dust of His feet get on your cloak because you follow so close? Does the sound of His whisper reverberate in your ear because you have drawn so near? Are you obedient to that voice, day after day, hour after hour?”
💜Sometimes we need to leave our past behind in order to move forward.
💜Surrender is not the same as despair.
💜Careful not to put limitations on God’s work; especially work being done in the lives of others.
It was good for me to read this book and learn of the lineage of Jesus. I was very familiar with the account in the bible, but unsure how the kinsman-redeemer worked out. The author explained it clearly. I was truly swept away by this retelling.
October 1, 2020
Tessa Afshar has the talent to bring alive a Biblical character and make you feel the essence of the life and times of that character. In the Field of Grace focuses on the story of Ruth. This is my 4th book by Afshar and each one has drawn me in to the story of that particular Biblical character and encouraged me to return to that story in Scripture.
The story of Ruth is perhaps one of the best known Old Testament love stories. The characters, particularly Boaz, Ruth, and Naomi, are vividly drawn and full of depth. The secondary characters added additional interest to the story line as well. Afshar made a well known story feel new and engaging while at the same time following the Biblical story only adding fiction as needed to flesh out the plot. She packs her storyline full of Biblical truths that add wonderful spiritual content.
Highly recommended for all those who love Biblical fiction.
The story of Ruth is perhaps one of the best known Old Testament love stories. The characters, particularly Boaz, Ruth, and Naomi, are vividly drawn and full of depth. The secondary characters added additional interest to the story line as well. Afshar made a well known story feel new and engaging while at the same time following the Biblical story only adding fiction as needed to flesh out the plot. She packs her storyline full of Biblical truths that add wonderful spiritual content.
Highly recommended for all those who love Biblical fiction.
June 26, 2018
I wanted to love this book...I wanted to feel the depth of Boaz and Ruth's characters come off these pages, I really did. Sadly, I did not.
The middle of the book felt shallow with the romance, and I was not amused that the author would present Boaz more willing to help Ruth because of his attraction to her (as soon as he sees her, he's like, yep, let me be the noble kinsmen). This did not settle with me and continued to make me more frustrated when I saw their interactions together.
On top of that, the writing style didn't flow well for me. I found the descriptions lacking and I didn't get the full Biblical feel I would have loved. The abundance of similes were a bit overdone at times as well. I was disappointed that Hebrew words were not used more throughout and some modern phrases sprung up at times, making even harder to remember that it was a Bible story.
Often, the male and female interactions did not fit well with the setting. There were several in-public kisses before marriage, and no one seem bothered at all. One kiss was even discussed (as in "did you like how it felt?")
I did love the actual scenes that were in this book that are in the Bible, and it was during those pages that I could really absorb it in, but those scenes were minimal. There isn't a lot of extra details in the book of Ruth, but I still believe the strength of the characters lacking in this book would have made a world of difference to the overall story.
I'm not a huge fan of Biblical fiction, so it's probably why I didn't enjoy this as much. I know it's not an easy job writing this genre and I truly commend the author for taking the effort to do so! :) I'm grateful that she said in her Acknowledgements that this book does not take the place of the Bible. We must hold God's Word in its proper place!
The middle of the book felt shallow with the romance, and I was not amused that the author would present Boaz more willing to help Ruth because of his attraction to her (as soon as he sees her, he's like, yep, let me be the noble kinsmen). This did not settle with me and continued to make me more frustrated when I saw their interactions together.
On top of that, the writing style didn't flow well for me. I found the descriptions lacking and I didn't get the full Biblical feel I would have loved. The abundance of similes were a bit overdone at times as well. I was disappointed that Hebrew words were not used more throughout and some modern phrases sprung up at times, making even harder to remember that it was a Bible story.
Often, the male and female interactions did not fit well with the setting. There were several in-public kisses before marriage, and no one seem bothered at all. One kiss was even discussed (as in "did you like how it felt?")
I did love the actual scenes that were in this book that are in the Bible, and it was during those pages that I could really absorb it in, but those scenes were minimal. There isn't a lot of extra details in the book of Ruth, but I still believe the strength of the characters lacking in this book would have made a world of difference to the overall story.
I'm not a huge fan of Biblical fiction, so it's probably why I didn't enjoy this as much. I know it's not an easy job writing this genre and I truly commend the author for taking the effort to do so! :) I'm grateful that she said in her Acknowledgements that this book does not take the place of the Bible. We must hold God's Word in its proper place!
August 24, 2021
4 'Beautiful and lovely' stars
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. After not exactly liking the first two books by this author I've read - Pearl in the Sand and Harvest of Rubies, I had no high expectations. However, I decided to give it a try one more time and ended up liking this story.
The writing style has improved a lot but there were still times (especially during conversations) when it felt too modern. Still, compared to the previous two books, it was much more genuine historical.
I liked how the story was not all about Boaz and Ruta but also focused on side characters. Naomi and Ruta's mother/daughter-in-law relationship was very beautifully written.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. After not exactly liking the first two books by this author I've read - Pearl in the Sand and Harvest of Rubies, I had no high expectations. However, I decided to give it a try one more time and ended up liking this story.
The writing style has improved a lot but there were still times (especially during conversations) when it felt too modern. Still, compared to the previous two books, it was much more genuine historical.
I liked how the story was not all about Boaz and Ruta but also focused on side characters. Naomi and Ruta's mother/daughter-in-law relationship was very beautifully written.
February 19, 2017
This was a beautiful retelling of the story of Ruth and Naomi, and later Boaz. I have my own connections to the story, and to hear it again in the hands of a capable author familiar with both the biblical tale and historical background, was sweet and comforting. That's a good way to sum this book up, sweet and comforting. Each character had many sorrows and trials, and each had to choose at some point: faith or fear. Life or death. Bitterness or peace. Each chapter began with a scripture and the characters' conversations were filled with small sermons about faith and what it means to follow God.
Though I found the story telling likable and the characters well developed in some ways, in other ways I felt it was a bit shallow and contrived. Sometimes I felt the character's lives were a bit TOO hard, and it felt a bit forced. Also, I loved Ruth but was sometimes annoyed with her. A negative thought never entered her head. She never got angry with those that mistreated her. She never believed in herself or her worth; in her humility, she often needed reassurance from others that she was lovable and loved, and never quite believed the compliments she received. It's quite possibly how women acted in those times. But it just didn't make her very relatable or necessarily likable to me. I like me a good female hero who understands her own strength and power. At times she showed great strength, saving herself and her mother-in-law. But at other times I found her to be a bit too self-deprecating, a little too weak. Also, Boaz seemed a bit too good to be true. No one in the story had any inner demons to overcome, they were just saddened by the situations they were put in and had to learn to trust God even when they felt sorrowful over their experiences. I never felt any doubt about their redemption in their times of doubt, so there was less of an emotional payoff.
Overall, if you like retelling of Biblical stories, this one is well imagined and well written. Go for it.
Though I found the story telling likable and the characters well developed in some ways, in other ways I felt it was a bit shallow and contrived. Sometimes I felt the character's lives were a bit TOO hard, and it felt a bit forced. Also, I loved Ruth but was sometimes annoyed with her. A negative thought never entered her head. She never got angry with those that mistreated her. She never believed in herself or her worth; in her humility, she often needed reassurance from others that she was lovable and loved, and never quite believed the compliments she received. It's quite possibly how women acted in those times. But it just didn't make her very relatable or necessarily likable to me. I like me a good female hero who understands her own strength and power. At times she showed great strength, saving herself and her mother-in-law. But at other times I found her to be a bit too self-deprecating, a little too weak. Also, Boaz seemed a bit too good to be true. No one in the story had any inner demons to overcome, they were just saddened by the situations they were put in and had to learn to trust God even when they felt sorrowful over their experiences. I never felt any doubt about their redemption in their times of doubt, so there was less of an emotional payoff.
Overall, if you like retelling of Biblical stories, this one is well imagined and well written. Go for it.
June 29, 2022
5 Stars ✨
“If God spared us from the piercing shaft of every sorrow,” she said, “we could never fulfill His best plans for our lives. Sometimes the sweetest things in life rise up out of the worst things in life.”
Another beautiful story jam packed full of wisdom from Afshar . I love the story of Ruth and Boaz. This made it come to life in a whole new way. Ruth is such an amazing Bible character her humility is astounding and I can only pray that God make me a Ruth - make me see people where they are at and have love and compassion the way she did. Boaz is the type of man every girl needs. Such a powerful story I’m just in awe 💞 now I gotta go reread Ruth . That’s my favorite part about Afshar- she makes you hunger for the real story and takes you right back to the Bible .
“If God spared us from the piercing shaft of every sorrow,” she said, “we could never fulfill His best plans for our lives. Sometimes the sweetest things in life rise up out of the worst things in life.”
Another beautiful story jam packed full of wisdom from Afshar . I love the story of Ruth and Boaz. This made it come to life in a whole new way. Ruth is such an amazing Bible character her humility is astounding and I can only pray that God make me a Ruth - make me see people where they are at and have love and compassion the way she did. Boaz is the type of man every girl needs. Such a powerful story I’m just in awe 💞 now I gotta go reread Ruth . That’s my favorite part about Afshar- she makes you hunger for the real story and takes you right back to the Bible .
May 28, 2024
Wow, wow, wow. This story was phenomenal! I'm not sure I can say this, having not read much Biblical fiction, but I really believe Tessa Afshar brings the Bible to life like no other - except the Holy Spirit, of course. I never thought I'd be a fan of Biblical fiction, but my mind has been now and forever changed.
In the Field of Grace follows the story of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz. Tessa really takes the reader into the trenches with these characters. We see conversations, interactions, and a closer look at what their day-to-day lives may have been like in Biblical times.
She does a great job of sticking to scripture with the baseline of the story, adding additional fictional elements to help the reader be immersed in the time. Each element in the book seamlessly weaves together a story of great faith and great grace.
Two things that I love that Tessa did was 1) She gave a scripture at the beginning of each chapter as a lens for the reader to read them through. And 2) She even weaved in Bible stories that took place before and after Ruth. So, not only are you learning about one instance, but multiple that took place throughout Biblical history.
I truly cannot put into words how powerful the messages in this book were. This was the perfect companion to my Ruth Bible Study and a story I will be encouraging others to pick up for years to come!
Ruth Bible Study & Reading Vlog: https://youtu.be/82HQffL1bMY?si=4JQbK...
In the Field of Grace follows the story of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz. Tessa really takes the reader into the trenches with these characters. We see conversations, interactions, and a closer look at what their day-to-day lives may have been like in Biblical times.
She does a great job of sticking to scripture with the baseline of the story, adding additional fictional elements to help the reader be immersed in the time. Each element in the book seamlessly weaves together a story of great faith and great grace.
Two things that I love that Tessa did was 1) She gave a scripture at the beginning of each chapter as a lens for the reader to read them through. And 2) She even weaved in Bible stories that took place before and after Ruth. So, not only are you learning about one instance, but multiple that took place throughout Biblical history.
I truly cannot put into words how powerful the messages in this book were. This was the perfect companion to my Ruth Bible Study and a story I will be encouraging others to pick up for years to come!
Ruth Bible Study & Reading Vlog: https://youtu.be/82HQffL1bMY?si=4JQbK...
February 13, 2022
I have always loved the story of Ruth, and I really liked how this book expanded on her life and gave more insight to her character. As always, there is a lot of Biblical wisdom written into the pages of this book, which I really love to read. It's not preachy but fits perfectly into the situations the characters are facing. I love that Biblical fiction books like this allow readers the opportunity to see into their thoughts and feelings. It makes them seem not quite as foreign and distant. This book is a little shorter than Tessa's other books, so this one is perfect if you are looking for something sweet and encouraging.
November 11, 2014
Every now and then, you stumble upon a story that is so real, so easy to get lost in, that you forget everything else in your life. I read "In the Field of Grace" in 48 hours, which has to be a personal record for me.
I love Biblical fiction, but I've never seen the story of Ruth and Boaz brought to life so beautifully before. I was hooked from the first page.
I've been a fan of this author since reading "Pearl in the Sand," and I'm eager to look up the other two books she has written. I truly enjoyed this book. Highly recommended to any inspirational fiction fans.
(I received a copy of this book through Netgalley and Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
I love Biblical fiction, but I've never seen the story of Ruth and Boaz brought to life so beautifully before. I was hooked from the first page.
I've been a fan of this author since reading "Pearl in the Sand," and I'm eager to look up the other two books she has written. I truly enjoyed this book. Highly recommended to any inspirational fiction fans.
(I received a copy of this book through Netgalley and Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
September 8, 2017
This is biblical fiction and I really enjoyed this one. It was a beautiful retelling of the story of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz. I will even say it was sweet, and 'sweet' is one of those words I don't use as a compliment, but this time I mean it as a compliment. It was beautifully written. I loved the author's descriptive strokes and the dialogue. The author made her characters shine. It was all well done. I have another biblical fiction book by this same author and now I can't wait to get to it.
April 18, 2020
Wow. Just. WOW!
I have always loved the story of Ruth, and to have it told so beautifully by one of my favourite authors is just a real blessing. I loved how this telling included ideas for backstory for both Ruth and Boaz, which helped the story flow beautifully. I like that we also saw Naomi's 'matchmaking', and concern for not only Ruth's future, but her happiness as well.
Favourite quotes:
"Hopelessness had no place in God’s plans for her."
"Surrender means you accept God’s will, whatever He should choose. But you lean into hope. Into expectation. Not into discouragement. When God asks us to surrender, He only wants our full trust."
I have always loved the story of Ruth, and to have it told so beautifully by one of my favourite authors is just a real blessing. I loved how this telling included ideas for backstory for both Ruth and Boaz, which helped the story flow beautifully. I like that we also saw Naomi's 'matchmaking', and concern for not only Ruth's future, but her happiness as well.
Favourite quotes:
"Hopelessness had no place in God’s plans for her."
"Surrender means you accept God’s will, whatever He should choose. But you lean into hope. Into expectation. Not into discouragement. When God asks us to surrender, He only wants our full trust."
August 11, 2020
Enjoyable and different. Slow to start for me, but it was good in the end.
August 18, 2014
I’m really not sure where to start with this review. I guess I’ll say—I LOVED the cover. I just wasn’t very crazy about the story.
I read quite a bit of historical fiction and Biblical fiction. I’m fine with fillers to the story but this stuff was kind of farfetched. Nowhere in the Bible does it mention that Boaz had another wife and children. I probably could have overlooked that but I also felt that some of the language wasn’t very—fitting. I don’t think “bumpkin” and “hussy” fits well in this type of story. I really can’t imagine Boaz even kidding with Ruth about her being a hussy…I think my jaw dropped when I read that. It feels too modern and out of place.
I also thought similes were overused and everyone in this story was nauseous over every little situation they faced in life. They were nauseous from heat or embarrassment or from hunger. These poor folks needed a prescription for Zofran…just saying.
Further, Ruth nearly died in every chapter it seems. This lady had very little luck. Heatstroke, hemorrhage, smoke inhalation…you name it and she nearly died from it.
I was also bothered that Ruth was credited as writing some of the poetry found in Song of Solomon—I’m not a Bible scholar so maybe I’m wrong but I’ve never read any inclination that Ruth was responsible for the poetry from the Song of Solomon. I read the author’s note on this matter but it still just didn’t resonate with me.
The swift point of view change from that of Ruth to Solomon and David was also rather abrupt. These are simply my views. You may read the book and love it. I won’t say that others shouldn’t read the book—simply that it was not a book that I particularly enjoyed.
Ruth the Moabite has traveled from Moab with her mother-in-law, Naomi. As expected, this story follows the basic storyline that is outlined in the Bible.
Ruth is a stranger in a strange land but finds the approval of Boaz, her kinsman redeemer. I thought the actual love story in this book was well written and the characters were fleshed out very well. Ruth and Boaz read in a voice that I would have imagined of them.
Overall, this book was okay. It’s not the worst book that I’ve ever read. I thought the characters were believable and even likable. You may or may not have the same issues that I had with the story. If you like Biblical fiction—you may still enjoy this tale!
View all my reviews|Excerpt
I received this book free from the publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own
I read quite a bit of historical fiction and Biblical fiction. I’m fine with fillers to the story but this stuff was kind of farfetched. Nowhere in the Bible does it mention that Boaz had another wife and children. I probably could have overlooked that but I also felt that some of the language wasn’t very—fitting. I don’t think “bumpkin” and “hussy” fits well in this type of story. I really can’t imagine Boaz even kidding with Ruth about her being a hussy…I think my jaw dropped when I read that. It feels too modern and out of place.
I also thought similes were overused and everyone in this story was nauseous over every little situation they faced in life. They were nauseous from heat or embarrassment or from hunger. These poor folks needed a prescription for Zofran…just saying.
Further, Ruth nearly died in every chapter it seems. This lady had very little luck. Heatstroke, hemorrhage, smoke inhalation…you name it and she nearly died from it.
I was also bothered that Ruth was credited as writing some of the poetry found in Song of Solomon—I’m not a Bible scholar so maybe I’m wrong but I’ve never read any inclination that Ruth was responsible for the poetry from the Song of Solomon. I read the author’s note on this matter but it still just didn’t resonate with me.
The swift point of view change from that of Ruth to Solomon and David was also rather abrupt. These are simply my views. You may read the book and love it. I won’t say that others shouldn’t read the book—simply that it was not a book that I particularly enjoyed.
Ruth the Moabite has traveled from Moab with her mother-in-law, Naomi. As expected, this story follows the basic storyline that is outlined in the Bible.
Ruth is a stranger in a strange land but finds the approval of Boaz, her kinsman redeemer. I thought the actual love story in this book was well written and the characters were fleshed out very well. Ruth and Boaz read in a voice that I would have imagined of them.
Overall, this book was okay. It’s not the worst book that I’ve ever read. I thought the characters were believable and even likable. You may or may not have the same issues that I had with the story. If you like Biblical fiction—you may still enjoy this tale!
View all my reviews|Excerpt
I received this book free from the publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own
September 11, 2018
I enjoyed this imaginary story. It begins with her life in Moab, how she meets Naomi, and marries Mahlon. In the meantime Boaz is devastated with the loss of his wife and children. The author took a lot of artistic license in writing this book but overall it was pretty good. Both Boaz and Ruth learn to trust God with their lives. It's a beautiful story although probably not very accurate.
January 2, 2022
This is my first biblical fiction book I have ever read. I enjoyed it!! Stayed true to the Book of Ruth in the Bible while exploring possibilities that isn't covered in the Bible. Will look into some more!! But this is definitely a change of pace for me!! I am still trying to process this book because it is so different from what I usually read!!
March 11, 2018
4.5/5 Stars
This was an absolutely lovely and moving retelling of the book of Ruth in the Old Testament. It blended fiction with biblical history flawlessly.
Highly recommend.
This was an absolutely lovely and moving retelling of the book of Ruth in the Old Testament. It blended fiction with biblical history flawlessly.
Highly recommend.
November 22, 2024
“There is only one measure of true success, child.
How close you remain by His side.
Does the dust of His feet get on your cloak because you follow so close?
Does the sound of his whisper reverberate in your ear, because you have drawn so near?
Are you obedient to that voice, day after day, hour after hour?
That is how I measure success.”
🥹👏🏻🫶🏻💛
How close you remain by His side.
Does the dust of His feet get on your cloak because you follow so close?
Does the sound of his whisper reverberate in your ear, because you have drawn so near?
Are you obedient to that voice, day after day, hour after hour?
That is how I measure success.”
🥹👏🏻🫶🏻💛
November 4, 2023
Edit: Full content review is now in review, I’ll come back at a later time with my full thoughts on the overall book.
3 stars RTC!
Goodreads seriously when are we going to get half star ratings?
Content Concerns: I would only reccomend this book for older 18+ teens due to some of the content.
A woman remarks to her husband, that if he wants her to sleep inside, the dog must sleep inside as well. The husband agrees on the condition that the dog can “Never into our chamber, mind. That’s just for you and me.”
A woman after having multiple miscarriages pleads with her husband to take another wife which her husband strongly refuses, thinking to himself that “He couldn’t imagine, sharing his heart and body with another woman.”
After multiple miscarriages a woman becomes despondent, and draws away from her husband. One night she comes to her husbands bed saying, “Give me another child. Give me comfort in my despair.” It then says “He kept her in his bed until she became pregnant.”
A man tells a woman that she is “more graceful than chemosh’s dancers.” When asked how he knows what they look like, he admits that, he may have “caught a glimpse here or there.”
The top half of page 39 is a not overly detailed closed door scene, which contains some mildly detailed kissing, closeness, thoughts and feelings, remarking of wanting to be in the others arms, and a woman resenting her own lack of curves. It then cuts to the following morning and a remark of a woman being in her husbands arms all night. (No details)
A mention of a man loving his wife just as much as the “first night she came to him.”
Many mentions of miscarriages, and being barren.
Mentions of a woman’s time of the month.
A woman goes to the temple of chemosh to pray for a child, but upon learning that the king is sacrificing one of his children that day, she finds it barbaric and leaves.
A woman awakes from a dream of her dead husband, thinking how “His warm mouth would never whisper against her skin again.”
A woman thinks to herself of the terrible reputation Moabite woman have.
A drunken lecherious caravan leader attempts to rape a woman, he gropes her but the woman is able to elbow him and get away. (Mildly detailed)
A woman thinks to herself, that if some bandits had caught them, they could have been killed or “Perhaps worse.”
A woman worries that more men may try to violate her, and what will she be able to do, if they do. She thinks back to the caravan leader and how he gropped her. (No real details)
A man thinks how he has never been tempted by another woman since the death of his deceased wife, thinking that he had never given in to the “needs of his body.”
A man thinks how he wishes he could take a woman he is interested in “home then and there.”
A mention of a man, gazing at a woman as she leaves, “her blue tunic swaying against her hips with every step.”
A woman is shocked, when she awakens from an injury to find herself in a bed naked.
A mention of a man having a “strong vibrant feel” of a woman’s flesh beneath his fingers
A mention of a man wanting to “kiss the shy smile off” a woman’s face.
A woman tells her daughter in law to go and give herself to a man, offering herself. (She only means to go lay at a man’s feet, and uncover them) but by doing this, essentially she would be proposing to him, which makes the daughter nervous.
A woman reassures her daughter, that whether he accepts the marriage proposal or not, he will not lay an improper hand on her.
A mention that a woman uncovering a man’s feet, served as a “sensual offering.”
A man’s think to himself that he will not take advantage of a woman’s alone time with him, and he will not bring about a smear on the woman’s reputation.
A mention of a woman looking at a man with hunger in her eyes.
A man, holds a woman’s hand, “despite to touch her just a little.”
A man tells a woman she must leave before sunrise lest her reputation besmirched, but to lay down and sleep till then. (Not sexual)
A man receives several blessings for his marriage, that he would bear many children, he thinks to himself, that if what they say comes true, he “will populate Israel with his seed.”
A man kisses a woman, (mildly detailed) and clasps the woman against him for long moments, “settling the feel of her willowy body against his.”
A man runs his fingers through a woman’s hair all the way down to her waist.
A woman whispers to her betrothed. “Kiss me with the kisses of your mouth.”
Page 217 contains, multiple uses of Innuendo.
When a man wonders how his wife has become pregnant so soon, the physician remarks, that he has “Potent seed.”
During labor, a woman resents how “intrusive” the midwife’s fingers are.
A woman goes into labor, and delivers a baby (detailed)
A mention of a woman rubbing her “sore bre*sts.”
A woman wonder since she has been ill, if her husband still finds her desirable, and asks her husband, if that is why he “won’t touch her anymore.” Her husband reassured her that if she thought he had lost his desire in her, that she is mistaken, that he “wants her more than ever.”
A man reached for his ill wife and “cradles her against his chest.” (Not necessarily sexual)
A husband kisses the side of his wife’s neck.
Page 267, contains a few innuendos, and a detailed kiss
A man tangles his hands in his wife’s hair, pulling her forward, in “a possessive move.”
A woman mentions that she wants to fall asleep in her husbands arms.
A mention of a man watching his daughter disintegrate after being raped. (No details)
A mention of the ��comely lines of a woman’s body)
A mention of a young woman being brought into an old man’s bed (not sexual) to keep him warm, the man thinks to himself, that he would never even lay a hand on her.
A man asks a woman which of his dads wives she is, to which she responds that she is only his servant. The man then remarks, “Ah. The one who keeps him warm at night. I only get a hot brick in my bed.”
A man wishes he had not married multiple women, instead only remaining faithful to one, then he wouldn’t have “sired half brothers who hate each other.”
3 stars RTC!
Goodreads seriously when are we going to get half star ratings?
Content Concerns: I would only reccomend this book for older 18+ teens due to some of the content.
A woman remarks to her husband, that if he wants her to sleep inside, the dog must sleep inside as well. The husband agrees on the condition that the dog can “Never into our chamber, mind. That’s just for you and me.”
A woman after having multiple miscarriages pleads with her husband to take another wife which her husband strongly refuses, thinking to himself that “He couldn’t imagine, sharing his heart and body with another woman.”
After multiple miscarriages a woman becomes despondent, and draws away from her husband. One night she comes to her husbands bed saying, “Give me another child. Give me comfort in my despair.” It then says “He kept her in his bed until she became pregnant.”
A man tells a woman that she is “more graceful than chemosh’s dancers.” When asked how he knows what they look like, he admits that, he may have “caught a glimpse here or there.”
The top half of page 39 is a not overly detailed closed door scene, which contains some mildly detailed kissing, closeness, thoughts and feelings, remarking of wanting to be in the others arms, and a woman resenting her own lack of curves. It then cuts to the following morning and a remark of a woman being in her husbands arms all night. (No details)
A mention of a man loving his wife just as much as the “first night she came to him.”
Many mentions of miscarriages, and being barren.
Mentions of a woman’s time of the month.
A woman goes to the temple of chemosh to pray for a child, but upon learning that the king is sacrificing one of his children that day, she finds it barbaric and leaves.
A woman awakes from a dream of her dead husband, thinking how “His warm mouth would never whisper against her skin again.”
A woman thinks to herself of the terrible reputation Moabite woman have.
A drunken lecherious caravan leader attempts to rape a woman, he gropes her but the woman is able to elbow him and get away. (Mildly detailed)
A woman thinks to herself, that if some bandits had caught them, they could have been killed or “Perhaps worse.”
A woman worries that more men may try to violate her, and what will she be able to do, if they do. She thinks back to the caravan leader and how he gropped her. (No real details)
A man thinks how he has never been tempted by another woman since the death of his deceased wife, thinking that he had never given in to the “needs of his body.”
A man thinks how he wishes he could take a woman he is interested in “home then and there.”
A mention of a man, gazing at a woman as she leaves, “her blue tunic swaying against her hips with every step.”
A woman is shocked, when she awakens from an injury to find herself in a bed naked.
A mention of a man having a “strong vibrant feel” of a woman’s flesh beneath his fingers
A mention of a man wanting to “kiss the shy smile off” a woman’s face.
A woman tells her daughter in law to go and give herself to a man, offering herself. (She only means to go lay at a man’s feet, and uncover them) but by doing this, essentially she would be proposing to him, which makes the daughter nervous.
A woman reassures her daughter, that whether he accepts the marriage proposal or not, he will not lay an improper hand on her.
A mention that a woman uncovering a man’s feet, served as a “sensual offering.”
A man’s think to himself that he will not take advantage of a woman’s alone time with him, and he will not bring about a smear on the woman’s reputation.
A mention of a woman looking at a man with hunger in her eyes.
A man, holds a woman’s hand, “despite to touch her just a little.”
A man tells a woman she must leave before sunrise lest her reputation besmirched, but to lay down and sleep till then. (Not sexual)
A man receives several blessings for his marriage, that he would bear many children, he thinks to himself, that if what they say comes true, he “will populate Israel with his seed.”
A man kisses a woman, (mildly detailed) and clasps the woman against him for long moments, “settling the feel of her willowy body against his.”
A man runs his fingers through a woman’s hair all the way down to her waist.
A woman whispers to her betrothed. “Kiss me with the kisses of your mouth.”
Page 217 contains, multiple uses of Innuendo.
When a man wonders how his wife has become pregnant so soon, the physician remarks, that he has “Potent seed.”
During labor, a woman resents how “intrusive” the midwife’s fingers are.
A woman goes into labor, and delivers a baby (detailed)
A mention of a woman rubbing her “sore bre*sts.”
A woman wonder since she has been ill, if her husband still finds her desirable, and asks her husband, if that is why he “won’t touch her anymore.” Her husband reassured her that if she thought he had lost his desire in her, that she is mistaken, that he “wants her more than ever.”
A man reached for his ill wife and “cradles her against his chest.” (Not necessarily sexual)
A husband kisses the side of his wife’s neck.
Page 267, contains a few innuendos, and a detailed kiss
A man tangles his hands in his wife’s hair, pulling her forward, in “a possessive move.”
A woman mentions that she wants to fall asleep in her husbands arms.
A mention of a man watching his daughter disintegrate after being raped. (No details)
A mention of the ��comely lines of a woman’s body)
A mention of a young woman being brought into an old man’s bed (not sexual) to keep him warm, the man thinks to himself, that he would never even lay a hand on her.
A man asks a woman which of his dads wives she is, to which she responds that she is only his servant. The man then remarks, “Ah. The one who keeps him warm at night. I only get a hot brick in my bed.”
A man wishes he had not married multiple women, instead only remaining faithful to one, then he wouldn’t have “sired half brothers who hate each other.”
January 23, 2020
Afshar can bring a Biblical story to life. This gave me new perspective, a fresh way of thinking about Naomi. And also the dedication that Ruth had to her as a daughter.
I appreciated how Boaz was fleshed out with faults and insecurities rather than just being a romantic hero. I would've thought the interaction between he and the other kinsmen redeemer would have been more played out.
I like how Afshar's writing can transport me to the setting and awaken my senses.
I appreciated how Boaz was fleshed out with faults and insecurities rather than just being a romantic hero. I would've thought the interaction between he and the other kinsmen redeemer would have been more played out.
I like how Afshar's writing can transport me to the setting and awaken my senses.
June 10, 2022
As far as Christian Fiction goes, this one is pretty good. Because we are studying the story of Ruth in CFM this week I got the itch to also read a novelized version and after some quick research this seemed to be one of the favorites. I read it fairly quickly (2 days) and while the author understandably took some liberties when filling in holes in the scriptural text, I was pleased that she stayed true to the biblical account and preserved the heart of the story. As is fairly common in christian fiction it moves pretty quickly and we get multiple view points. This is not my preference, rather I prefer a single point of view and a slower "show don't tell" style, but I kept my expectations low and I ended up enjoying it.
October 21, 2022
In the Field of Grace by Tessa Afshar is a Biblical Fiction book on the story of Ruth.⭐⭐⭐⭐
I really enjoyed how Tessa brought these people of the Bible to life. I've always loved the love story of Ruth and Boaz and it was great to see the story again. I also just happen to be reading the book of Ruth as well this month, so great timing to read this book.
I love stories like these where they grip you, you fall in love with the characters and then you want to go into God's Word and read the story for yourself to delve deeper. These type of stories I feel help others that may not know these stories in the Bible, and they will be encouraged to look in the Bible to learn the whole truth and love of God's Word.
I really enjoyed how Tessa brought these people of the Bible to life. I've always loved the love story of Ruth and Boaz and it was great to see the story again. I also just happen to be reading the book of Ruth as well this month, so great timing to read this book.
I love stories like these where they grip you, you fall in love with the characters and then you want to go into God's Word and read the story for yourself to delve deeper. These type of stories I feel help others that may not know these stories in the Bible, and they will be encouraged to look in the Bible to learn the whole truth and love of God's Word.
June 30, 2015
Ruth grew up with a family that treated her as less-than. Not until she meets Naomi at the market does Ruth experience true kindness, and after marrying her son, she experiences acceptance and happiness with the Israelite family. Following the Biblical story, both of Naomi’s sons die, leaving the women to fend for themselves. They travel to Bethlehem, Naomi’s long-ago home to start their lives over.
Naomi, a poor widow, and Ruth, a Moabite and therefore an outsider, must do what they can to survive, which means each day Ruth must glean what she can after the harvesters go through the fields. This is where the stage is set for the remarkable legacy that God has prepared for Naomi, Ruth and Boaz, a story that flowed easily from the pen of author Tessa Afshar.
When reading fictional retellings of Biblical stories, I am always divided between two things – does the author make sure not to take any extreme liberties with the Biblical story, yet still create a fresh story that isn’t predictable? If you have read the story of Ruth, that is what you get here, though Afshar has added some lovely secondary characters and interactions with Boaz that put a new spin on the story. The plot flows well and while scenes are added to the story for artistic license, nothing goes against the events in the Bible.
Afshar’s writing style is engaging and, it was easy to keep the pages turning. The description of harvesting the fields and the lifestyles of Boaz versus Ruth and Naomi were well-done and added great depth to the story. The setting of Bethlehem and their life there really came to life for me. I appreciated Ruth comparison of the home she shares with Naomi to the Boaz’s home; it really underscored the idea that Ruth and Naomi built themselves up from nothing, and that waiting upon the Lord really did reap a bigger blessing than either one could imagine, not due only to material blessings but to a second chance at the life for them all. The scene on the threshing floor between Ruth and Boaz was done well, and I thought their scenes together were endearing. Their interactions were an achingly sweet balancing act between master and servant, both wanting more from the other, yet trying to follow God’s will at the same time.
At times I thought there was too much time spent on their inner dialogue. I think there could have been more action, more at stake and less lengthy inner soliloquys. The spiritual aspect touched on some important spiritual truths, but there were a couple of moments that I felt it bogged down the flow of the story. I also expected a bit more drama between Boaz and the other “kinsman redeemer,” but it all worked out very quickly. I think that could have been expounded upon and heightened the stakes in the story, perhaps touching a bit more on the politics and customs of the time.
I appreciated that the story went beyond them simply meeting, falling in love and marrying – Afshar didn’t depend solely on the romance to keep the plot rolling, but rather had a nice mix of internal and external conflict, the endearing romance and key Biblical elements. She touched on an imagined past for both Ruth and Boaz, which made their time together and their imagined future even more genuine. Any author’s retelling that draws me back to the Word has done a wonderful job in the telling of it. Though I have read the book of Ruth more times than I can remember, upon reading the last page, I felt entreated to go back and read it once more with fresh eyes and a fresh heart. This retelling of the story of Ruth hits the mark, and is a great addition to the genre of Biblical fiction.
Review copy provided by Net Galley.
Naomi, a poor widow, and Ruth, a Moabite and therefore an outsider, must do what they can to survive, which means each day Ruth must glean what she can after the harvesters go through the fields. This is where the stage is set for the remarkable legacy that God has prepared for Naomi, Ruth and Boaz, a story that flowed easily from the pen of author Tessa Afshar.
When reading fictional retellings of Biblical stories, I am always divided between two things – does the author make sure not to take any extreme liberties with the Biblical story, yet still create a fresh story that isn’t predictable? If you have read the story of Ruth, that is what you get here, though Afshar has added some lovely secondary characters and interactions with Boaz that put a new spin on the story. The plot flows well and while scenes are added to the story for artistic license, nothing goes against the events in the Bible.
Afshar’s writing style is engaging and, it was easy to keep the pages turning. The description of harvesting the fields and the lifestyles of Boaz versus Ruth and Naomi were well-done and added great depth to the story. The setting of Bethlehem and their life there really came to life for me. I appreciated Ruth comparison of the home she shares with Naomi to the Boaz’s home; it really underscored the idea that Ruth and Naomi built themselves up from nothing, and that waiting upon the Lord really did reap a bigger blessing than either one could imagine, not due only to material blessings but to a second chance at the life for them all. The scene on the threshing floor between Ruth and Boaz was done well, and I thought their scenes together were endearing. Their interactions were an achingly sweet balancing act between master and servant, both wanting more from the other, yet trying to follow God’s will at the same time.
At times I thought there was too much time spent on their inner dialogue. I think there could have been more action, more at stake and less lengthy inner soliloquys. The spiritual aspect touched on some important spiritual truths, but there were a couple of moments that I felt it bogged down the flow of the story. I also expected a bit more drama between Boaz and the other “kinsman redeemer,” but it all worked out very quickly. I think that could have been expounded upon and heightened the stakes in the story, perhaps touching a bit more on the politics and customs of the time.
I appreciated that the story went beyond them simply meeting, falling in love and marrying – Afshar didn’t depend solely on the romance to keep the plot rolling, but rather had a nice mix of internal and external conflict, the endearing romance and key Biblical elements. She touched on an imagined past for both Ruth and Boaz, which made their time together and their imagined future even more genuine. Any author’s retelling that draws me back to the Word has done a wonderful job in the telling of it. Though I have read the book of Ruth more times than I can remember, upon reading the last page, I felt entreated to go back and read it once more with fresh eyes and a fresh heart. This retelling of the story of Ruth hits the mark, and is a great addition to the genre of Biblical fiction.
Review copy provided by Net Galley.
July 18, 2017
Beautiful story! Loved everything about it---the focus on God's tender heart, how the author brought Boaz & Ruth to life, the back stories she gave them, their love story, the secondary characters, the life lessons, the humor. So glad I bought this for my classroom!
August 1, 2023
This was my first Tessa Afshar book. Biblical fiction/ historical fiction set in biblical times is not my usual genre. Still, I enjoyed this story based on the Biblical book of Ruth.
I loved how the people of the biblical account feel more real after reading this fictionalized story. Afshar stays true to the Bible, but just like The Chosen, this is a fictional story created to point to the One True God and His Word, the Bible. It’s not a replacement for Scripture, but a good story like this is a great way for a reader to better connect and understand the historical context.
Afshar’s author notes at the end help the reader discern fact from fiction and I appreciate that she included that info.
If you enjoy other biblical fiction authors, or like watching The Chosen, you might enjoy this book too.
I loved how the people of the biblical account feel more real after reading this fictionalized story. Afshar stays true to the Bible, but just like The Chosen, this is a fictional story created to point to the One True God and His Word, the Bible. It’s not a replacement for Scripture, but a good story like this is a great way for a reader to better connect and understand the historical context.
Afshar’s author notes at the end help the reader discern fact from fiction and I appreciate that she included that info.
If you enjoy other biblical fiction authors, or like watching The Chosen, you might enjoy this book too.
January 3, 2020
Ruth has been through much love and loss in her life. After leaving her family getting married and then becoming a widow she is on a new quest to help rebuild a new land with Naomi her mother-in-law. Well building in farming and planting new seeds she comes across a man or rather a man comes across her and shows her kindness. He find some self drawn to her but he knows that they should not be together but that doesn’t stop him from wanting her and wanting their life together.
May 18, 2018
I really enjoyed this biblical fiction account of the book of Ruth. This is my second book by this author and i am looking forward to reading more. She is becoming a favorite of mine!
July 13, 2024
I feel like the books I have been reading recently let’s just say are more vulgar and not for the faint of heart or clean of mind.
I wanted to go back to my roots and read a clean novel no skipping just fluff and feel like God isn’t shaking his head on me (I don’t want to know how God feels about dark romances)
This was an amazing read like it felt so nice just reading a simple Boaz and Ruth retelling, about people who really sought after the LORD, and loved each other.
Ruth is one of my favorite biblical characters she loved her mother in law, took care of her and in the book we learn of she felt like she belonged no where but felt a family with Naomi and Mahlon (till he died)
Her hardworking and just straight up kindness was so sweet and Boaz noticing that and really being an honorable man was so nice (I still can’t deal with him calling Ruth his daughter slight ick)
There were times where some of the dialogue made me cringe 😬
I think it was the banter that docked my rating like I can’t do biblical worded banter ( I started laughing uncontrollably 🤣)
Also there were times there were used very modern language or phrases. Also sometimes referencing biblical passages hundred years early.
Finally loved the ending where Boaz buys land by Jerusalem and plants olive trees and decides to call the place “The Mount of Olives” and wonders if maybe one day a great great great (multiple greats later) grandson would find comfort there in time of great need (I wonder who might that be) 🧐
I wanted to go back to my roots and read a clean novel no skipping just fluff and feel like God isn’t shaking his head on me (I don’t want to know how God feels about dark romances)
This was an amazing read like it felt so nice just reading a simple Boaz and Ruth retelling, about people who really sought after the LORD, and loved each other.
Ruth is one of my favorite biblical characters she loved her mother in law, took care of her and in the book we learn of she felt like she belonged no where but felt a family with Naomi and Mahlon (till he died)
Her hardworking and just straight up kindness was so sweet and Boaz noticing that and really being an honorable man was so nice (I still can’t deal with him calling Ruth his daughter slight ick)
There were times where some of the dialogue made me cringe 😬
I think it was the banter that docked my rating like I can’t do biblical worded banter ( I started laughing uncontrollably 🤣)
Also there were times there were used very modern language or phrases. Also sometimes referencing biblical passages hundred years early.
Finally loved the ending where Boaz buys land by Jerusalem and plants olive trees and decides to call the place “The Mount of Olives” and wonders if maybe one day a great great great (multiple greats later) grandson would find comfort there in time of great need (I wonder who might that be) 🧐
May 29, 2014
Tessa Afshar has taken one of the most beloved stories in the bible and alighted it on my heart once more. In the Field of Grace exemplifies how God delights in using the most unlikely people to fulfill His divine purposes. Through a series of seemingly unrelated events, Tessa Afshar reveals how the Lord begins to weave Ruth into the lineage of Israel. Ultimately He provides hope for the world through the union of Ruth and Boaz.
The opening chapters lay a strong foundation for the remainder of the story by opening a window into the lives of Boaz, Ruth, and Naomi before their lives begin to intertwine. Over the course of the novel additional characters enrich and endear the story to its readers.
Just as I would envision Ruth of the bible, Tessa portrays her character as a humble servant – kind and compassionate. I was drawn to her light hearted humor that seemed to chase away the grief that she had to bear. She extended grace to those who mistreated her and won their affections through her selfless service to Naomi.
I particularly liked how the author created Boaz to be more than just a rescuer or romantic interest in the story. Written as a strong male character, Boaz is not exempt from fear and insecurities. He took interest in the lives of those who worked for him, acted honorably in his pursuit of Ruth, and personified a cheerful giver.
By virtue of it’s delightful storytelling, biblical truths, and irresistible characters I give In the Field of Grace 4 stars. It will be available for purchase July 1, 2014 from River North Fiction, a division of Moody Publishers
I received this book free from the publisher through the NetGalley review program. 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.”
The opening chapters lay a strong foundation for the remainder of the story by opening a window into the lives of Boaz, Ruth, and Naomi before their lives begin to intertwine. Over the course of the novel additional characters enrich and endear the story to its readers.
Just as I would envision Ruth of the bible, Tessa portrays her character as a humble servant – kind and compassionate. I was drawn to her light hearted humor that seemed to chase away the grief that she had to bear. She extended grace to those who mistreated her and won their affections through her selfless service to Naomi.
I particularly liked how the author created Boaz to be more than just a rescuer or romantic interest in the story. Written as a strong male character, Boaz is not exempt from fear and insecurities. He took interest in the lives of those who worked for him, acted honorably in his pursuit of Ruth, and personified a cheerful giver.
By virtue of it’s delightful storytelling, biblical truths, and irresistible characters I give In the Field of Grace 4 stars. It will be available for purchase July 1, 2014 from River North Fiction, a division of Moody Publishers
I received this book free from the publisher through the NetGalley review program. 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.”
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