Jewel of Esther’s Storyis the seventh book in the Extraordinary Women of the Bible historical fiction series.
While some see Esther only for her beauty, others know her as the Storyteller. Esther freely shares the history of her Jewish people, chosen by God even though they are now exiles in a distant land. When the Queen of Persia invites Esther to share her knowledge at the palace, she is honored by the request but never dreams how one night will propel her toward a very different future…
After Queen Vashti is deposed, and the military conquests of King Xerxes bring him back to Susa, Esther is chosen as his new queen, soon discovering a villainous plot to exterminate the Jews. At risk to her own life, Esther must find a way to gain the king’s favor and plead for the salvation of her people, trusting that the one true God will not abandon them.
Tricia Goyer is a busy mom of ten, grandmother of two, and wife to John. Somewhere around the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers and non-fiction titles offering encouragement and hope. A bestselling author, Tricia has published thirty-three books to date and has written more than 500 articles. She is a two time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award Nominee. In 2010, she was selected as one of the Top 20 Moms to Follow on Twitter by SheKnows.com. Tricia is also on the blogging team at MomLifeToday.com, TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites.In addition to her roles as mom, wife and author, Tricia volunteers around her community and mentors teen moms. She is the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana, and she currently leads a Teen MOPS Group in Little Rock, AR. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.
Reading this book helped me so much because I suffer from a lot of fear, especially since 2020. It reminded me that Yahweh calls us to a purpose in life and that He's in control, even when things seem to be falling apart or when life takes a confusing, unpredictable turn.
The author expertly wove Esther's fear and faithfulness into a believable character--something not easily done! This living, breathing person jumped off the pages at me, and I became very concerned for her well-being and the wisdom (or foolishness) of her actions. It's obvious that she made human errors too, even though we look to her as a woman of faith to be emulated. I think it helped me understand that mistakes are okay--God will accomplish His will through us in spite of our human nature.
Additionally, I enjoyed the historical facts that made their way into this story. In the past, I've personally studied many of the supporting details from a Hebraic standpoint, so I was impressed by the accuracy of what Ms. Goyer included. I can only assume that the facts unknown to me were just as well-researched, which made me put more trust in all of the delightful historical nuggets woven throughout.
Something else worth mention: I appreciated that Vashti's storyline retained its importance as the book continued. The ending was very satisfying, in both a biblical and literary sense.
I'll definitely be reading books by Ms. Goyer again! Note: I'm not just saying that because it's a great way to end a review! In fact, I already HAVE read another of her books since this one: Breath of Bones, an intriguing (and well-researched) steampunk novel that she co-wrote with her son.
This is one of the most beautiful love stories ever lived. I must remind myself as I read it in the Biblical account and in fiction, that it truly happened.
Not all love stories end happily. Mine, unfortunately, did not. But God's love story for me most certainly did. For that I am truly thankful.
However, true love stories between husbands and wives have a very soft spot in my heart when I see they have God at their center which strengthens and binds them in an unwaivering decision to never falter in their choice for each other.
This fictional story gives real breath to the characters that actually lived this story. It gave reason for Esther's fears, hesitations, and strength. It gave a fuller picture of not only her King but her husband. It revealed a true human desire to be loved, accepted, and to be desired above all others and all things. It cements our need to trust the one we choose as a life long partner and to be able to look beyond their faults no matter how grievous they were. The focus on love and trust must be an inward choice of each person to make them known to the other on purpose and regularly. This requires relationship, communication, and priority.
This love story was one of the best accounts I have read. It is worth your time.
I really admire Tricia Goyer and the research she did concerning Esther! I only knew what was in her book in the Bible. I have always admired what she did while she was Queen, for her people, the Jews. Thanks for this wonderful book, and everything that I was able to imagine about Esther!
I enjoyed most of this book. It is well written and captivating. However, there's a little more spice than necessary, though nothing explicit. I just prefer to keep that very minimal. It only took up a couple of pages and is easy to skim over, so I think the book is worth reading. It made me think more deeply about Esther's life and how Haman related to the Jews.
I thoroughly enjoyed this retelling of one of my favorite Bible characters. I love how the author used the meanings of Esther/Hadassah’s names in both Persian and Hebrew to give more purpose to Esther and her story. I also loved the story teller aspect of Esther’s life. A really special touch.
Teemaged Hadassah's life story shows how yoing.Wisdpm can show up in someone's life. You get a food look at politics customs. amd. the workongs. of.a.monarchy? plus see Hashem's mighty wprls
Seriously loved this! It opened my eyes to the historical setting so much more during the time of Esther. It makes them much more real, human, and God’s story in Esther’s story is so powerful.