Rescued Heart ( Book #1): Historical Biblical Fiction Set in Abraham and Sarah’s Old Testament Era for Fans of The Chosen

by Angela Elwell Hunt

"Biblically sound and historically rich, Rescued Heart digs into unanswered questions about Abraham and Sarah's story."--MESU ANDREWS, bestselling author

In Ur of the Chaldeans, Ishcah faces the daunting prospect of marrying Abram, a man she has never met and who renames her Sarai on their wedding day. Their union, arranged since childhood, tests her as she grapples with uncertainty about her future and Abram's character, including his devotion to an unseen God--entirely unlike the idols she has worshiped all her life.

When Abram reveals that Adonai has directed him to leave the family, Sarai chooses to trust him and follow his God, even though she is not sure Adonai can make them a great nation. As the years pass without conceiving a child, Sarai wrestles with doubt and faith within her marriage. Her skepticism that their descendants will "outnumber the stars" grows with time. It will take nothing short of a miracle to prove Adonai's faithfulness to His promise.

A master of biblical research, Angela Hunt delivers a series starter that transports readers to the Old Testament world of Sarah and Abraham, making this novel a perfect read for those who love Francine Rivers, Mesu Andrews, Connilyn Cossette, and Jill Eileen Smith.

Genres: Biblical Fiction, Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Christian, Adult

356 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2025

About the author

Christy-Award winner Angela Hunt writes for readers who have learned to expect the unexpected in novels from this versatile author. With nearly six million copies of her books sold worldwide, she is the best-selling author of more than 165 works ranging from picture books (The Tale of Three Trees) to novels.

Now that her two children are grown, Angie and her husband live in Florida with Very Big Dogs (a direct result of watching Turner and Hooch and Sandlot too many times). This affinity for mastiffs has not been without its rewards--one of their dogs was featured on Live with Regis and Kelly as the second-largest canine in America. Their dog received this dubious honor after an all-expenses-paid trip to Manhattan for the dog and the Hunts, complete with VIP air travel and a stretch limo in which they toured New York City.

Afterward, the dog gave out pawtographs at the airport.

Angela admits to being fascinated by animals, medicine, psychology, unexplained phenomena, and “just about everything” except sports. Books, she says, have always shaped her life— in the fifth grade she learned how to flirt from reading Gone with the Wind.

Her books have won the coveted Christy Award, several Angel Awards from Excellence in Media, and the Gold and Silver Medallions from Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year Award. In 2007, her novel The Note was featured as a Christmas movie on the Hallmark channel. Romantic Times Book Club presented her with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006, and American Christian Fiction Writers bestowed the same award in 2019.

In 2006, Angela completed her Master of Biblical Studies in Theology degree and completed her second doctorate in 2015. When she’s not home reading or writing, Angie often travels to teach writing workshops at schools and writers’ conferences. And to talk about her dogs, of course.

Reviews

[Amanda (BookLoverAmanda) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rescued Heart by Angela Hunt
Book 1 in The Matriarchs Series
3 Stars
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...

Rescued Heart is the first book in Angela Hunt’s new biblical fiction series and this book explored the lives of Abraham and Sarah. The story is well written, rich in historical detail and gives readers an imaginative look at what life in Ur of the Chaldeans, with Sarah and Abraham might have been like.

That said, I personally struggled with some of the creative license taken with the biblical story. The book portrays Sarai and her family as worshipers of false gods before Abram’s call, and Sarai herself is not shown as the woman of strong faith we recognize from Scripture. While I understand some of this is historically accurate for the people in Ur during that time and added depth to Sarah's character in the books, those choices just made it harder for me to connect with the Sarah I know from the Bible.

Additionally, some of the family relationships were not accurate and felt like a creative departure that didn't align for me.

Angela Hunt is undeniably a gifted writer and researcher, and I can appreciate her effort to bring cultural depth to familiar Bible characters. I do not believe it's her intention in any way to be disrespectful by taking these creative liberties as that is what occurs many times in some biblical fiction books, however, readers who prefer stories that stay closer to the biblical text may find these interpretations a little distracting.

For those who enjoy biblical fiction and don’t mind extra creative license, this might still be an engaging read. It's always important when reading biblical fiction to take your heart back to scripture regardless of the creative liberties taken in the fictional work.

Thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Beverly Ann Beauchamp · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to take my time reading to follow the fictional aspects added to this novel. It was cool to visualize the people with feelings to how we feel when we are frustrated, happy, etc. I felt that through the descriptive writing. I also appreciated her use of the Book of Jasper. As always, Angela Hunt is a thorough writer that brings her characters to life.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Rescued Heart we are given a fictional account of Sarah, the wife of Abram, and a detailed look at how her life might have been. The author has notes and answers several questions in the back of her book as to why she took some liberties and why she wrote certain scenes.

I have always enjoyed author Hunts's detailed fictional reads, and this one was no different. Though it does take creative license, I did enjoy getting into what Sarah may have been thinking, what her life was like before marriage, during marriage, and her walking alongside Abraham as his wife. Things like her extraordinary beauty and giving birth well past her time and into her old age makes her a very unique person. Her rocky relationship with Hagar and all the drama that came from that. She was also married to a man who was destined to be the father of many.

After the flood, and Noah and his sons, Abram picks up the one true message of the only God to bring to a world that has forgotten him yet again. There is always a witness and bringing in all the well-known parts of Genesis made this a riveting read.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

God turns my weakness into good.

The Rescued Heart is based on the account of Abraham and Sarah. And it is done very well. It speaks of context, history, and other literature. Angela Hunt love for the word and the history of the bible is displayed gloriously. Since it is a very familiar bible account, I am not going to get into the details but I learned about the heart of a mother, wife, and daughter in Sarah. What may have gone thru her head and how she reconciled what God required of her. For example the sacrifice of her son. It appears it may have happened when Isaac was a bit older than what we learned in Sunday School. How it may have broken her only to know that it is not a sacrifice but a surrender of all that we love.
The account is wonderful reminder of God's purpose and how great it is for all of mankind.

Highly recommend!

A special thank you to Bethany House and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Grandma Susan]

DNF. One of the reasons I love Biblical fiction is the premise starts with Scripture. That wasn’t true of this book. I returned my purchase to Audible.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rescued Heart is just as breathtaking as its cover. Angela Hunt brings authenticity, relatability, and deep emotion to her biblical fiction. The story of Sarah and Abraham has always fascinated me, and this novel adds rich details that ultimately carried me away.

I’m excited for The Matriarchs series, which will feature three novels highlighting key mothers of the Jewish faith—Sarah, Rebekah, and Leah. Rescued Heart centers on Sarah’s biblical journey.

I admire how the author, grounded in biblical history, offers glimpses into what Sarah’s life and motivations may have been. Connecting with Sarah and understanding with her uncertainty, struggles with infertility, and disbelief felt believable. While we can’t know every nuance of her thoughts or actions, it’s clear that Hunt invested a lot of research, prayer, and heartfelt creativity into this portrayal—even referencing the Ancient Book of Jasher for added depth.

This moving faith-affirming story of redemption shows that even when we make mistakes or have doubts, God always keeps His promises.

First Line: I stood in my grandfather’s chamber and waited, my faith miniscule and my confidence nonexistent.
Series: The Matriarchs, book 1
Genre: Biblical Fiction
Author: Angela Hunt
Page Count: 368

#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.

[Marina Shankle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher.

This one is definitely one of my favorites from Angela Hunt! I really enjoyed how she took the biblical story of Abraham and Sarah and brought it to life using details from the Bible and historical texts from the time. I liked the connection between Abraham and Noah and Shem and the way the book explained Sarah's struggles with infertility and with waiting for God's timing.

My only criticism would be that the pacing was a little too fast in some places and a little too slow in others, glossing over things I found very interesting and dwelling on details that I did not find as interesting, but that's a matter of personal preference. Overall, I thought the story was well-written and really fascinating.

[Gina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another well done work by Angela Hunt, this time about the story of Sarah. Oh did she make me feel all that Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar might have felt! I could identify with the portrayal of Sarah as she struggled with infertility. The jealousy she must have felt when Hagar conceived and she was still childless. And times where she just wanted to wring Abraham’s neck, haha!

I enjoyed what was included to fill in the gaps of the lives of Abraham and Sarah. Angela’s writing style is simply phenomenal!

I am grateful to have received an advanced reader copy of this book. Opinions are all mine.

[ada Herrmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much I have learned

Angela hunt is one of my favorite authors and this book didn't disappoint. I felt like I was right there with Sari and I always am surprised of the research done by Jennifer. The food, the land the culture is as would imagine its exactly as she writeS.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angela Hunt is another one of my favorites. Her Biblical fiction always leads me back to the Bible to see what we know about the stories she portrays. In Rescued Heart, Hunt invites us into Sarah and Abraham, starting from when they meet and marry as Abram and Sarai. When I think about these two, I always imagine them later in life, so I really enjoyed the beginning and seeing how Hunt imagined the beginning of their relationship and the beginning of Sarah's faith journey. And true to the other books I've read by Angela Hunt-- I did go back to the stories recorded in the Bible and see what we can know as true and think about how these events may have really occured. I truly appreciate the obvious time, research, and care that the author takes in adding her imaginings to the real heros recorded in God's Word. If you're like me, Angela Hunt is a must read author. If you've never read her books, grab this one and you will be hooked!

[Erin Laramore · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing I love about Biblical fiction is the way that it brings the scripture to life - adds color, texture, details based on context and culture as well as other historical documents, to fill in the gaps of the stories. Of the stories I've read about Abraham and Sarah, this one may be the best. There were a lot of details pulled from the book of Jasher, which is referenced in scripture, but is not included in the scriptures - but because those details are out there, the author chose to use them to fill in some of the blanks surrounding the lives of the original patriarch. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Abraham's faith and how he shared it with those around him and then also seeing Sarah's faith journey. I enjoyed this perspective of Hagar as well this book provided a bit of closure on her story too. Though mostly character driven, there was enough plot - and enough that was added in from beyond Genesis that I was completely entranced by the story and eagerly turning pages to see what was happening. I definitely encourage reading the author's note that has answers to questions on why she chose to use some details that she did and how she drew some of her conclusions. This story held tight to scripture and added in some very plausible reasons for things that we know have happened. This was a thoroughly enjoyable addition to my Biblical fiction shelf and one I can easily recommend to fans of Biblical fiction or any who would want to know more about the life of Abraham and Sarah. Special thanks to Bethany House and the author for an advance copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

[Joanna Bair · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is like reading the most beautiful Bible study on Sarah, but without the boring parts. A must read for all Biblical fiction lovers this book follows the lives of Abram and Sarai from when they first meet and marry as strangers until the death of Sarah.
This book is of course based on Genesis, but also history and more specifically the rabbinical book of Jasher which has some stories that aren’t in Genesis. Whether they happened or not doesn’t matter, because they add to the beauty of the story and in some ways the prophecy of Jesus even more.
Abraham may have been tempted by satan? Maybe he survived a furnace?
The book also fills in some possible scenarios scholars consider for locations, and other events like Sarah being Abraham’s half sister or even the death of Sarah which to me was so tragic. I never noticed she died while Abraham was off to sacrifice Isaac?! What?
The book is so well written. I took my time with it and I feel like I got a whole Bible study out of it.

Also I have to address the way Sarah’s barrenness is so carefully portrayed here. Hunt is sensitive to all aspects of it. Sarah’s feelings are there but not so deep you feel depressed. And as someone who can relate to Sarah I know it can be quite easy to feel depressed about being forty and not having children. I loved that she had Sarah marrying at an older age. I really hope this book gives perspective to people who have loads of kids to be sensitive to those who don’t and want them. Maybe even give them better understanding of what their friends are going through. There’s not enough talk in the church about God not always answering prayers or giving us the desires of our hearts right away.
But it’s a novel of hope and promises fulfilled which gives me hope that my age may not seem old and impossible to God. I loved how Hunt wrote how God restored Sarah’s youth. It’s a lovely book. Please read it and give Biblical fiction a chance.

[Gail Hollingsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story of Sarah and Abraham was brought to life from the book of Genesis. From their wedding to their barren years and on to Sarah’s death right after Abraham obeyed God with his willingness to sacrifice their only son Isaac. I was moved by the faith of Abraham and Sarah’s turn from idols to the one and only true God. This author did her research and noted her references in the back of the book. I learned some things I never knew before. Of course she used her creative skills to fill in the blanks of what might have been happening in their day to day lives, but always using scripture to authenticate the actual Biblical story. This got me studying more of Genesis and following along as I read this interesting book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Rescued Heart" by Angela Hunt is Biblical Fiction. This book explores the lives of Sarai and Abram from the Bible. It fictionalizes the Biblical account, so if you are someone who prefers to only read the Bible verbatim you may want to skip this book.

As the first book in The Matriarchs series, I feel like the author brings the story of Sarai and her willingness to follow Abram where God, Adonai, leads him. The author brings to life possible emotions Abram/Abraham and Sarai/Sarah might have felt and what life may have been like for them. I appreciated the historical details the author included along with the descriptions of the scenery.

So if you enjoy Biblical fiction, check out Rescued Heart by Angela Hunt for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Lisa Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another perfectly told story!

Angela Hunt has, of course, created another perfect read! This story is filled with rich details specific to the era and written by a master storyteller who, as always, has done her research! Readers will gain a credible understanding of the lives of Sarah and Abraham who lived approximately 2000 years before Jesus. They will also be reminded of God’s faithfulness to fulfill his every promise. In this story Hunt has artfully outlined the origin of the Hebrew people while using the beloved, flawed and very human characters of Abraham and Sarah in this beautiful and emotionally gripping saga. You will never be sorry you read a Hunt book!

[Cheryl Rowland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Angela Hunt. It only took me about 18 hours to read it. I received this book from Angela's publisher. I had never thought that there might be some more texts before Genesis. I am looking for to reading the Book of Jasher even though I know it wasn't approved to be part of the canonical Bible. Great storytelling, Angie.

[Breena E · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angela does an incredible job bringing characters from the Bible to life in new ways. What an incredible thing to see Biblical heros as real people, with emotions and struggles. I love the care she takes in using historical documents and the way she wove history and fiction together. A must read!

[Linda Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

An eye opening story of Sarah and Abraham. Enjoyable story. Great book for those who enjoy Biblical fiction. I received a copy of this book and all opinions are my own.

[Linda R · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rescued Heart is the story of Sarah, the wife of Abraham. Born Iscah, Abram renamed her Sarai, "his princess", on their wedding day. The book tells of Sarai's life as a wife, then learning she would be a mother and having her name changed to Sarah, and finally, her death.

Rescued Heart, the first book in The Matriarchs series, is my first biblical fiction novel by Angela Hunt. I enjoyed Sarah and Abraham's story. It allowed me to see them in a new way. I will be ordering more of her books.

I purchased a paperback copy of this book.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rescued Heart by Angela Hunt is an immersive Biblical fiction look into the life of Sarai/Sarah, Abraham’s wife. What made her tick, and what made Abraham give in to her whims? The author’s well-thought-out possibilities make this a great read.

While the author stayed true to the Bible, she also added some extra non-biblical stories, which, although they might disappoint some, I found added to the story. In the end, I wept for all that Sarah and Abraham and even Hagar went through. Making this an emotional read.

I enjoyed the first book in The Matriarchs series, and I look forward to reading the next one. I highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley for my honest review.

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rescued Heart: The Story of Sarah: The Matriarchs Book #1 is a uniquely written and woven story about Abraham and Sarah from the Bible by Angela Hunt. Using the Bible as her guide and inspiration from the Book of Jasher, Ms. Hunt makes Readers see these well known People from the Bible in a different light from the beginning of their marriage to the end, and everything in between. Showing Abraham and Sarah in humanistic light, beyond the pages of the Bible and the Book of Jasher, also shows that some of their struggles, or aspects of them, are not all that different than what we struggle with today.

I absolutely loved Rescued Heart: The Story of Sarah: The Matriarchs Book #1 by Angela Hunt! I thought Ms. Hunt’s research for Rescued Heart was unique and different than what I am used to in Biblical Fiction. I love that Ms. Hunt had an Author’s Note and supplemental Q & A section for Readers that answer questions they may have while reading Rescued Heart. Through Rescued Heart, I saw Sarah and Abraham with fresh eyes. I like how even though it was primarily Sarah’s story, Rescued Heart also gives Abraham’s perspective at times too. I love that Sarah and Abraham were older when they got married in the story than I anticipated from reading the Bible. I love how Rescued Heart showed Sarah’s hardship in the waiting, because, to me, it spoke volumes of how even today, to wait upon God and His Timing is, at times, excruciatingly hard—especially when it feels like the rest of the world is passing you by. I also thought that the way Ms. Hunt portrayed the way pregnancy affected Sarah was unique. Some of God’s Mightiness portrayed in the book reminded me of lessons or correlations from both New and Old Testament Stories in the Bible. I actually loved how Hagar was portrayed in Rescued Heart! Make sure to read Rescued Heart to experience Angela Hunt’s beautiful story for yourself! I highly recommend it! I’m excited to see where Angela Hunt takesThe Matriarchs series next!

Have you read Rescued Heart? What did you think of the book?

I would like to thank the Publisher, NetGalley, and Celebrate Lit Blogging Tours for giving me a copy of Rescued Heart to review, for letting me be a part of the Rescued Heart Celebration Tour, and for providing the information needed for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

My review is also on my blog Leslie’s Library Escape, NetGalley, and Amazon.

[Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was for me a very interesting, and sometimes quite surprising, look at the life of Sarah, the wife of Abraham. The author showed the great divide and conflict between the pagan lifestyle of those who worshipped idols and Abraham’s strong faith in the one true God. Sarah was sometimes caught up in this conflict in both her family relationships and with the idol-worshipping culture as she followed Abraham. We see the struggles that Sarah may have had at times with her own personal faith, but we also see the strong, unwavering faith that Abraham had in God. As I mentioned at the beginning of this review, I was sometimes very surprised at the unexpected twists and turns in their story, but those did help me realize the great challenges that they must have faced during their lifetimes.

Please note this: I found the “Author’s notes” at the end of the book to be a very helpful look at the author’s research into the story of Abraham and Sarah and she explains why she made some of her choices in writing their story. In those notes, the author very clearly states that “This book is fiction based on biblical events; the truth lies in the Scriptures.” She based many of the fictional events in this book on her reading of the “Book of Jasher, an ancient rabbinical work translated from the Hebrew. This book does not claim to be inspired Scripture.” It was good to read that the author holds the Bible as the only source of Truth. Her next book will be the story of Rebekah, and I’m sure it will be as interesting as this one.

I voluntarily received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Richard Millsap · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rescued Heart: The Story of Sarah is a historical novel by Angela Hunt and is considered Book I in the Old Testament series, The Matriarchs. It is based on several chapters from the Book of Genesis (The Holy Bible; The Tanakh), as well as the non-canonical but historical Book of Jasher. Dr Hunt has taken the foundational story of Sarah and Abraham and fleshed it out, giving us a richness in narrative, fully formed characterizations, an understandable geographical context, and a cogent concept of emerging political identities.

Rescued Heart is a love story thrice fold: 1) as a beautiful and thoughtful woman comes to love a man (several years her senior); 2) as a couple comes to love—via a promise—a child not yet born; 3) and as a matriarch and patriarch learn across the years to love and trust absolutely a Holy God.

As a believer, this story of Sarah and her Abraham resonated with me. Deeply. I particular commend to you the final chapters, 37–39.

In addition to the novel itself (333 pages), we also find the author’s notes (Q&A format); a Reading Group Discussion Guide; a preview chapter from, The Story of Rebekah (Book 2 in The Matriarchs series); and the author’s biographical sketch.

Dr Hunt’s Rescued Heart is an exceptionally rich, respectful and obviously personally meaningful take on the Sarah / Abraham saga. It is fully deserving of the Five Stars rating for the purposes of this Goodreads book review.

This title is scheduled for release 7 October 2025.

Richard Kim Millsap
29 September 2025

[Notes: 1) I always reserve for myself the right to correct and edit any particular review. 2) It seems that packaged review formats don’t always allow for my carefully considered scribblings and structure. Apologies where unsolicited adjustments sow a bit of confusion.]

[Vicki · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rescued Heart draws the reader into what life might have been like back during Old Testament days. We get to experience Sarah and Abraham in a “human” way, I liked that about this book as sometimes it is difficult to relate to biblical characters. Angela Hunt did a great job in bringing these characters to life out of the pages of the Bible .
Reading Biblical fiction is sometimes uncomfortable to me. I am hesitant to read anything that contradicts the Bible. Most of Rescued Heart is imaginary using details from the book of Jasher. (I believe the original book of Jasher was lost. However, it is mentioned in the Bible a few times. ) Authors often use poetic license to convey historical events more vividly. And that was the case with Sarah’s life. What I do appreciate is Angela Hunt stayed true to what we do know from the scriptures about Sarah and Abraham’s life. So, for those who enjoy Biblical fiction and can comfortably sort out the known from the unknown, this book is going to be a hit. The author’s attention to detail is fantastic.
I received a copy of NetGalley with no obligations. I also purchased a second copy to share with friends. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is quite the page turner as you delve into the Story of Sarah and all the thoughts and feelings that she must have had. Can you imagine the agony of praying and wanting a child year after year while you watched everyone around you have children and asking the question when Lord when. If we are honest we have all questioned God at some time and being human I am reassured that Sarah felt that way. Abram’s faith was so strong as he was an example to others and this brings him to life before our eyes as we see them as humans who loved and trusted Adonai but suffered through difficulties and struggles. I highly recommend you open the pages and become immersed in their story which pricks your heart to pick up your Bible and read the inspired words this follows and elaborates on. It is not just a book but a journey you will take with these historical figures and when you are done you will feel like you have been a witness. I loved this book and respect all the research and hard work to bring it to us in a thought provoking and realistic way. Beautifully written. I really appreciated the author’s notes at the end.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/Bethany House Publishing. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Kathryn Pfeifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's just something about Angela Hunt - her books hold a depth that never fails to resonate. As I closed this book, I felt a weight of disappointment. It was over, and I'd have to wait months for another dose of Hunt's masterful storytelling. Not only was I entertained by the biblical story of Sarah, but I was challenged in my own faith. For me, this is a hallmark of an excellent book. With a storyline that keeps the pages turning and a message that embeds itself in my heart and soul, I felt Sarah's story deeply. Rescued Heart was beautiful, passionate, and life-giving. I could not praise it highly enough!

I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.

[Jen Gaskill · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF - for me, this one was a disappointment and I decided I couldn’t keep reading. Felt like a waste of time, sort to say.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting read…I found it quite enjoyable.

[Esther · Rating 5 out of 5]

The events of this book shines light on the verse in Exodus 15:11, which says:

“Who among the gods is like you, Lord? Who is like you— majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders?”
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭15‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

And the song:

Who Is Like Unto Thee?
Who is like unto thee, O Lord?
Who is like unto thee, O Lord?
Among the gods, who is like thee?
Glorious in holiness, fearful in praises,
Doing wonders, Alleluia!

You are God alone, Lord! There’s none other.

[Stephanie Mccall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rescued Heart purports to be "the story of Sarah," which it is. I've read versions of her story before--Jill Eileen Smith has another great one, and Mesu Andrews has a novella centered on both Sarah and Keturah, if you'd like more of this venerable Biblical lady. Angela Hunt's version though, blew me away on every level.

First off, I've said before how much I appreciate Angela doing her homework and staying faithful to Scripture. That's true of Rescued Heart as well, but she took some serious risks this time around. In fact, I'd recommend reading her author's note before you dive into the novel because otherwise, you might think she's being unfaithful to the Bible.

It's true, the Book of Jashar, referenced twice in the Old Testament, is not canon. However, Angela is intentional about letting readers know where her fictional or non-canon information comes from. Taken with Sarah and Abraham's story in Genesis, and the culture of the pre-Mosaic Middle East, these additions make perfect sense. They give Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, and others shading that they might not otherwise have, and they put Sarah and Abraham's spiritual journey in a fascinating new context. More importantly, Angela writes familiar scenes like Sarah's encounter with the angels or Isaac's sacrifice with such a deft, detailed hand, the story came to life in ways I haven't seen under an author's pen in a while.

However, no story can come to life without its characters, and Angela's characters absolutely sparkle on the page. In particular, I can't get over how much I identified with Sarah, sometimes to my encouragement and sometimes to my chagrin. We've both been called to long "waiting seasons" for different reasons, and we've both loved our dreams more than Adonai at times. We've both been called to surrender, and to journeys most other women don't experience. Reading Sarah's story reminded me I was not alone, and that God was with me as much as He was with her.

Beyond that, the rest of the cast, from Abraham, Isaac, and Ishmael to Hagar, Milcah, and even those who don't get much page time like Pharaoh, Phicol, and Lot's daughters, are beautifully multifaceted. Through them, Angela explores all different types of people and different levels and facets of one's relationship to God. These people act and interact the way you would expect of ancient individuals, but they feel as close and relatable as if they lived in the 21st century. It's a great reminder of not only how great stories unite us as humans, but how relevant the Bible, the Torah, and all those "ancient" writings still are today.

Angela's plot is one of the most complex and carefully written I've seen from her. It can get a little long, but that's just because Abraham and Sarah's story takes up a huge chunk of Genesis. On the page, it's fascinating. The story is so familiar, Angela could've easily let it become dry. Instead, her take on Sarah lets readers see not only how even the smallest events are important, but how they shaped a people and a nation.

I meant to add some "popping scenes," because there are plenty in here. Some of them left me inspired, some shook me to my core, and all made me thankful for my journey and place in Adonai's kingdom all over again. But one, some of those scenes are major spoilers. Two, I don't want to get in the way of other readers finding their own treasures. So with that, I'll close and simply say two things. One, read this ASAP because I am sure you'll love it. Two, I can't wait for Rebekah's story--that little taste at the back has me salivating. I look forward to more from The Matriarchs with great anticipation!