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Mary: Chosen of God
"Blessed are you, Mary, chosen of God."Mary is ordinary girl from Nazareth. She helps her mother with household chores, she daydreams about a handsome carpenter's son named Joseph, and at night she lies on the roof and contemplates at the stars. But one evening, a heavenly visitor comes with unexpected newsAnd#8212;and her life is changed forever. Experience the life of the Messiah from the perspective of his mother, who must place her trust and obedience in Adonai, the Most High, as he fulfills centuries of anticipation in the middle of her daily life. Walk with Mary as she witnesses Yeshua grow, mature, minister, and even crucifiedAnd#8212;and then raised again, to the kindling of her new faith.
320 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2016
25 people are currently reading
610 people want to read
About the author
Diana Wallis Taylor
22 books224 followersDiana Wallis Taylor is the author of the novels Journey to the Well and Martha and lives in California. Find out more at www.dianawallistaylor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
December 10, 2016
This book, although actually a bit different than I expected, was quite interesting. Diana does a really good job of bringing the time period and characters to life. It was engaging to read about Mary as she heard from the angel, became wed to Joseph, and later on had little Yeshua. As he grows, and his brothers and sisters come along, Mary's life story continues. Her relationship with God was a blessing to me. I enjoyed imagining her feelings and how awed she was to be raising the Messiah and be his mother, as well as, the things that she witnessed happening later in his life. As you read you can feel her love, her struggles, and he emotions she must have felt.
Although, at times the story may have played out a bit different than what I personally would have imagined, I enjoyed the author's take. It was interesting to read the Jewish names and at time words were included that made the story more personal. I also, originally thought this to be a type of Christmas novel and was suprised to find that after just a few short chapters, that part of the book was over. The book actually spans the lifetime of Jesus. I also enjoyed the author's take on Jesus as a boy and how he was taken with insects, bugs, birds, and had a calming effect on those around him. There was definitely much thought put into the story.
I would recommend this book. I received a free copy through the Book Club Network and Whitaker House to review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to review it positively.
Although, at times the story may have played out a bit different than what I personally would have imagined, I enjoyed the author's take. It was interesting to read the Jewish names and at time words were included that made the story more personal. I also, originally thought this to be a type of Christmas novel and was suprised to find that after just a few short chapters, that part of the book was over. The book actually spans the lifetime of Jesus. I also enjoyed the author's take on Jesus as a boy and how he was taken with insects, bugs, birds, and had a calming effect on those around him. There was definitely much thought put into the story.
I would recommend this book. I received a free copy through the Book Club Network and Whitaker House to review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to review it positively.
October 15, 2016
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
This is such an amazing story, I was in awe the entire time I was reading this book. Both Mary and Joseph were the sweetest young couple. Her parents loved her very much to make sure the man she would marry was the man she loved. I know this is fiction, but as I read the account of the angel coming to Mary in a dream, her trip to see her cousin Elizabeth, Mary telling her parents and Joseph she was pregnant with the Messiah, each and every scene was so fully detailed, I felt like I was living this story along with the characters. It is so neat to see this Bible account through the eyes of Diana W. Taylor.
It was so sweet to follow along with Mary as she realized she was carrying a special baby, that God has actually trusted her an favored her among all of the women of that time, and chose her to be the mother of Jesus. Despite what she had to go through, the outrage of her family and Joseph when she first told them she was pregnant with God's son, all of the talk and whispers among everyone she came in contact with, Mary still had a peace and calmness, and an excitement that God had favored her among women. Can you just imaging what that would feel like?
Ms. Taylor not only writes an wonderful story of Mary, the historical events and all of the details was amazing. It is so much in this story that I love, I could go on and on, but you have an idea what this book is about. And I agree with others that this book needs to be read before Christmas and before Easter. It is a great way to ready your heart for the Celebration of each of these holidays. If you have friends and family that love reading, and don't know the Lord, this would be the most amazing book for them to read. The Gospel is told throughout this book in a wonderful way. This is a must read for every Christian!
"I received this book from the author for free. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed in this review are my own."
This is such an amazing story, I was in awe the entire time I was reading this book. Both Mary and Joseph were the sweetest young couple. Her parents loved her very much to make sure the man she would marry was the man she loved. I know this is fiction, but as I read the account of the angel coming to Mary in a dream, her trip to see her cousin Elizabeth, Mary telling her parents and Joseph she was pregnant with the Messiah, each and every scene was so fully detailed, I felt like I was living this story along with the characters. It is so neat to see this Bible account through the eyes of Diana W. Taylor.
It was so sweet to follow along with Mary as she realized she was carrying a special baby, that God has actually trusted her an favored her among all of the women of that time, and chose her to be the mother of Jesus. Despite what she had to go through, the outrage of her family and Joseph when she first told them she was pregnant with God's son, all of the talk and whispers among everyone she came in contact with, Mary still had a peace and calmness, and an excitement that God had favored her among women. Can you just imaging what that would feel like?
Ms. Taylor not only writes an wonderful story of Mary, the historical events and all of the details was amazing. It is so much in this story that I love, I could go on and on, but you have an idea what this book is about. And I agree with others that this book needs to be read before Christmas and before Easter. It is a great way to ready your heart for the Celebration of each of these holidays. If you have friends and family that love reading, and don't know the Lord, this would be the most amazing book for them to read. The Gospel is told throughout this book in a wonderful way. This is a must read for every Christian!
"I received this book from the author for free. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed in this review are my own."
May 10, 2019
I truly enjoyed this book. It was a wonderful perspective on the biblical account of Mary, and it didn't detract from it. I plan on reading more of this author's work, and I would recommend this book to all Christian readers. It gave an insight into what life may have been like for Mary, Joseph & their families. I have read this one twice now, and it was just as good the second time around.
January 5, 2017
This was a familiar story I read with fresh eyes and came away with a stirred heart and a new appreciation and perspective of Mary and Joseph. I felt like I had met this couple for the very first time. This author sews in details of their culture and how things would have been back then for a young Jewish couple who was betrothed. She captures the youthfulness, innocence, and love these two had for the Lord and for each other.
I liked when Mary prayed. She usually started out, “Oh, God Who Sees Me” This really struck a chord with me. I started saying this in my prayers too. It brings things into perspective. Here is one of Mary’s prayers.
“Oh, God Who Sees Me, she said silently. Grant me the courage to carry out your plan and to face my parents and Joseph. Give them grace to believe me. They must believe me. Strengthen me, and help me through these next few hours and days. I am your maiden, may your will be done.” …” please help me. I’m afraid of what lies ahead. I know your ways are beyond understanding, but I submit to your will. Show us the way. Go before us.”
The author gives Mary’s perspective about the trip to Nazareth for the census. Mary thinks of the baby’s arrival, “…Then a thought struck her and she pursed her lips to keep from making a sound that would worry Joseph. What if there was no midwife? Who would help her? Would she birth this heavenly child by herself? Would Joseph have to help her? She blushed at the thought. What did a man know about birthing a child? She shuddered slightly as she fought down the fear that threatened to engulf her.”
The author says this in author notes to readers, “…these were specific questions and speculations that I sought to answer in this book:
1. At such a young age, how did Mary get permission from her father to travel over one hundred and twenty miles to Juttah, where Elizabeth lived and how did she get there? It was five days from Nazareth to Jerusalem alone.
2. “Living in a small house, how would Mary hide from her mother the fact that her time of the month did not come? How could she explain the angel’s visitation in a way her parents could believe? Was that her reason for immediate haste to get to Elizabeth’s?
3. Who helped Mary with the birth? Angels? Joseph?
4. How would I show my readers that Mary and Joseph were a typical young Jewish family, living in a small village in the hills of Judea?
These are not the only aspects and questions the author answered in this book. I was glued to this novel that revealed the humanity of Mary, a 14-year-old girl facing unbelievable situations (like I hadn’t read before), showed Joseph, faithful, hardworking man and Jesus the son of God who they’d be caring for. All of them became very real to me. I felt like I had the opportunity to walk along with Mary and Joseph in a unique way. This author had the gift of bringing a whole new dynamic way beyond the Christmas story. I liked the writing style of this author. I highly recommend this novel. It would make a great book club pick.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and The Book Club Network site. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
I liked when Mary prayed. She usually started out, “Oh, God Who Sees Me” This really struck a chord with me. I started saying this in my prayers too. It brings things into perspective. Here is one of Mary’s prayers.
“Oh, God Who Sees Me, she said silently. Grant me the courage to carry out your plan and to face my parents and Joseph. Give them grace to believe me. They must believe me. Strengthen me, and help me through these next few hours and days. I am your maiden, may your will be done.” …” please help me. I’m afraid of what lies ahead. I know your ways are beyond understanding, but I submit to your will. Show us the way. Go before us.”
The author gives Mary’s perspective about the trip to Nazareth for the census. Mary thinks of the baby’s arrival, “…Then a thought struck her and she pursed her lips to keep from making a sound that would worry Joseph. What if there was no midwife? Who would help her? Would she birth this heavenly child by herself? Would Joseph have to help her? She blushed at the thought. What did a man know about birthing a child? She shuddered slightly as she fought down the fear that threatened to engulf her.”
The author says this in author notes to readers, “…these were specific questions and speculations that I sought to answer in this book:
1. At such a young age, how did Mary get permission from her father to travel over one hundred and twenty miles to Juttah, where Elizabeth lived and how did she get there? It was five days from Nazareth to Jerusalem alone.
2. “Living in a small house, how would Mary hide from her mother the fact that her time of the month did not come? How could she explain the angel’s visitation in a way her parents could believe? Was that her reason for immediate haste to get to Elizabeth’s?
3. Who helped Mary with the birth? Angels? Joseph?
4. How would I show my readers that Mary and Joseph were a typical young Jewish family, living in a small village in the hills of Judea?
These are not the only aspects and questions the author answered in this book. I was glued to this novel that revealed the humanity of Mary, a 14-year-old girl facing unbelievable situations (like I hadn’t read before), showed Joseph, faithful, hardworking man and Jesus the son of God who they’d be caring for. All of them became very real to me. I felt like I had the opportunity to walk along with Mary and Joseph in a unique way. This author had the gift of bringing a whole new dynamic way beyond the Christmas story. I liked the writing style of this author. I highly recommend this novel. It would make a great book club pick.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and The Book Club Network site. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
October 17, 2016
Biblical fiction is one genre I don’t typically read; perhaps it is that the culture is so far removed from today, or that I sometimes have trouble relating to the situations or even people. But as Christmas is rapidly approaching, the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus, is one that I found I wanted to understand better. This book did help enhance my appreciation for the Christmas story, and even the rest of Jesus’ earthly life as seen through His mother’s eyes. I am actually amazed at both the depth and the wide scope that Diana Wallis Taylor encompasses in her fictionalized account.
There really isn’t a whole lot to go on when considering Mary—but the author does a fantastic job of filling in the holes and adding flesh and bones to the Biblical person. Anywhere she takes license is done with an intent of honoring what we find in the Bible yet making it more relatable to the reader. She gives great detail on the festivals and food preparation but doesn’t overwhelm the larger story; it is helpful in understanding some of the unfamiliar Jewish customs and brings deeper meaning and insight to my own faith and why some traditions are practiced in certain ways.
My favorite part of this book is the humanizing effect it has on Mary; I know she was a woman, special because God made her so, but to see her grapple with the idea of having a baby and what others would think as it happened before her wedding, to read about her difficulties as she raised this very special child, and her struggles in watching the world mistreat and abuse her son, knowing He is God’s Son, made her more sympathetic. I am fascinated by the woman God chose to bear Messiah; her faith and trust are humbling.
Perhaps it is because I am also a mother, but my heart broke in various points, empathizing with the very difficult path she had to trod as Jesus’ mother. She is described as cognizant of His special purpose, close in her relationship with God, but any mother’s heart would break as she endured the pain of her oldest child, even realizing He was no ordinary child.
This is an excellent book for those of us who may not have a deep understanding of the time in which Jesus walked the earth in a physical body. I would recommend it for those who enjoy Biblical fiction, but also those who would like to maybe understand an important Biblical person a little better. While this is a work of fiction, I believe the author is very respectful of the Biblical text and has sought to honor God with her writing—there is no hesitation on my part to suggest this as an excellent book that will help readers draw closer to God even as it entertains. Especially as we approach the celebration of Jesus’ birth, a new perspective on the event is both welcome and refreshing, refocusing me on the true miracle of God With Us.
I received a free copy of this book through Celebrate Lit but no compensation for this review. I was not required to write a favorable one and the opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
There really isn’t a whole lot to go on when considering Mary—but the author does a fantastic job of filling in the holes and adding flesh and bones to the Biblical person. Anywhere she takes license is done with an intent of honoring what we find in the Bible yet making it more relatable to the reader. She gives great detail on the festivals and food preparation but doesn’t overwhelm the larger story; it is helpful in understanding some of the unfamiliar Jewish customs and brings deeper meaning and insight to my own faith and why some traditions are practiced in certain ways.
My favorite part of this book is the humanizing effect it has on Mary; I know she was a woman, special because God made her so, but to see her grapple with the idea of having a baby and what others would think as it happened before her wedding, to read about her difficulties as she raised this very special child, and her struggles in watching the world mistreat and abuse her son, knowing He is God’s Son, made her more sympathetic. I am fascinated by the woman God chose to bear Messiah; her faith and trust are humbling.
Perhaps it is because I am also a mother, but my heart broke in various points, empathizing with the very difficult path she had to trod as Jesus’ mother. She is described as cognizant of His special purpose, close in her relationship with God, but any mother’s heart would break as she endured the pain of her oldest child, even realizing He was no ordinary child.
This is an excellent book for those of us who may not have a deep understanding of the time in which Jesus walked the earth in a physical body. I would recommend it for those who enjoy Biblical fiction, but also those who would like to maybe understand an important Biblical person a little better. While this is a work of fiction, I believe the author is very respectful of the Biblical text and has sought to honor God with her writing—there is no hesitation on my part to suggest this as an excellent book that will help readers draw closer to God even as it entertains. Especially as we approach the celebration of Jesus’ birth, a new perspective on the event is both welcome and refreshing, refocusing me on the true miracle of God With Us.
I received a free copy of this book through Celebrate Lit but no compensation for this review. I was not required to write a favorable one and the opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
December 8, 2016
I really love books that are fictionalization of bible stories. Sometimes they are just straight forward with no real descriptions or anything to help the reader to connect to the book. In this case, the author has done an outstanding job of retelling a very important story that completely captivated me. I saw the breads, the fruits and other delicious items on the table as Mary's family sat down to partake of a meal that came from God's provision. I loved how the author made me feel like I was sitting at the table listening to Mary talk to her parents. I envisioned a sweet soft voice as she spoke of her love for The Most High.
I was so impressed with the way the author told the story of Mary and how she made such beautiful descriptions of the time period and the feelings that Mary experienced when she realized she was carrying a special child. I imagine there was much talk and whispers about Mary when she became pregnant. I have read the story many times, seen movies about Mary and the birth of Christ. This time I felt the story deep in my soul as the author wrote with grace and compassion about the mother of Jesus. I loved how Mary continuously prayed for guidance and believed without question that her son was destined for greatness.
The author has given me a new author to read now that I have had the honor of reading her book. It is parallel to the story in the bible but adds real depth and brings the story to life with vivid details. The true unconditional love that Mary had for her son is written with emotions that brought tears to my eyes. I hope everyone will grab a copy of this book. It is a magnificent retelling of Mary and the son who would one day set us free.
"Therefore , let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Yeshua, whom you crucified , both Lord and Messiah."
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
I was so impressed with the way the author told the story of Mary and how she made such beautiful descriptions of the time period and the feelings that Mary experienced when she realized she was carrying a special child. I imagine there was much talk and whispers about Mary when she became pregnant. I have read the story many times, seen movies about Mary and the birth of Christ. This time I felt the story deep in my soul as the author wrote with grace and compassion about the mother of Jesus. I loved how Mary continuously prayed for guidance and believed without question that her son was destined for greatness.
The author has given me a new author to read now that I have had the honor of reading her book. It is parallel to the story in the bible but adds real depth and brings the story to life with vivid details. The true unconditional love that Mary had for her son is written with emotions that brought tears to my eyes. I hope everyone will grab a copy of this book. It is a magnificent retelling of Mary and the son who would one day set us free.
"Therefore , let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Yeshua, whom you crucified , both Lord and Messiah."
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
October 3, 2016
I enjoy historical fiction. This began when I started reading fictionalized biblical stories. This book fits in with the latter category. In "Mary, Chosen of God" the author was able to do a great job of telling this story. She was able to make her descriptions come to life in a way that I felt like I could reach out and touch the items she talked about, or hear the conversations taking place.
This is a beloved story that I feel was well represented with this book. The author did a wonderful job, which was a wonderful surprise. I hadn't read anything by this author before but I will keep my eyes out for her works in the future.
I was given this book by bookfun.org and Whitaker House in exchange for my honest review.
This is a beloved story that I feel was well represented with this book. The author did a wonderful job, which was a wonderful surprise. I hadn't read anything by this author before but I will keep my eyes out for her works in the future.
I was given this book by bookfun.org and Whitaker House in exchange for my honest review.
March 6, 2022
Enjoyed this story
I enjoyed this story. Getting into the lives of the people who new Yeshua is a daunting task which Diana Wallis Taylor does with grace and sensitivity.
I enjoyed this story. Getting into the lives of the people who new Yeshua is a daunting task which Diana Wallis Taylor does with grace and sensitivity.
December 21, 2025
I read this book a while ago and lately have done a reread.
I really wanted to like this book and for the most part, it was ok. It was a little too Hallmarky for me (of course Joesph is this handsome young man who she’s had a crush on for the longest time) but pretty good. My two biggest issues with it?
1. It skipped a LOT. I would’ve loved to see Mary’s perspective on Jesus as a kid, what he did, how he acted. I remember wishing there was more stories of Jesus as a kid like what he was like at my age and making some up myself. There’s a part where Joseph and Mary are doubting themselves, can we really raise the Son of God? Turns out it’s easy because Jesus basically raises himself. At the age of ten he’s a better parent than Mary to his siblings. Him being a little kid would not have been bad.
2. This is the big one. I’m a Catholic and so I believe Mary remained a virgin her whole life and did not have other kids. I knew this author was a Protestant and I knew in this book Mary would probably have other children. But the way she did it absolutely killed me. In this book, Mary having the Son of God and raising him is not enough oh no, she’s not good enough then. She has to have six other kids because only then will she be good enough for God. If you believe Mary had other kids, fine. But for mercy’s sake do not tell me the most instrumental woman in history was not good enough when she carried the savior of the world. For someone who’s Protestant, the author relied a little too much on works in this case and then comes back and tells Catholics we do! Plus, then we had to have a little scene when Jesus entrusts Mary to John NOT one of her other sons and so her sons are like what and THEN whoopsies guess Jesus didn’t mean that because John had to go preach and Mary tells him Jesus would’ve wanted her to stay with her family. Soooo why he’d spend his last hours saying that then? The author was so fighting her own beliefs to Scripture it was laughable.
I have nothing against Protestant books and they’re very good sometimes but it’s absurd when they take such a beautiful instrumental woman like Mary and turn her into a Hallmark character that really has no life of her own. It was supposed to give Mary a voice but it just fits her around the Bible stories; we don’t really see too much of what she thinks of it or what else she was doing. I love Mary and she’s been an inspiration to me since I was little. Give her a book that does her justice please!
I really wanted to like this book and for the most part, it was ok. It was a little too Hallmarky for me (of course Joesph is this handsome young man who she’s had a crush on for the longest time) but pretty good. My two biggest issues with it?
1. It skipped a LOT. I would’ve loved to see Mary’s perspective on Jesus as a kid, what he did, how he acted. I remember wishing there was more stories of Jesus as a kid like what he was like at my age and making some up myself. There’s a part where Joseph and Mary are doubting themselves, can we really raise the Son of God? Turns out it’s easy because Jesus basically raises himself. At the age of ten he’s a better parent than Mary to his siblings. Him being a little kid would not have been bad.
2. This is the big one. I’m a Catholic and so I believe Mary remained a virgin her whole life and did not have other kids. I knew this author was a Protestant and I knew in this book Mary would probably have other children. But the way she did it absolutely killed me. In this book, Mary having the Son of God and raising him is not enough oh no, she’s not good enough then. She has to have six other kids because only then will she be good enough for God. If you believe Mary had other kids, fine. But for mercy’s sake do not tell me the most instrumental woman in history was not good enough when she carried the savior of the world. For someone who’s Protestant, the author relied a little too much on works in this case and then comes back and tells Catholics we do! Plus, then we had to have a little scene when Jesus entrusts Mary to John NOT one of her other sons and so her sons are like what and THEN whoopsies guess Jesus didn’t mean that because John had to go preach and Mary tells him Jesus would’ve wanted her to stay with her family. Soooo why he’d spend his last hours saying that then? The author was so fighting her own beliefs to Scripture it was laughable.
I have nothing against Protestant books and they’re very good sometimes but it’s absurd when they take such a beautiful instrumental woman like Mary and turn her into a Hallmark character that really has no life of her own. It was supposed to give Mary a voice but it just fits her around the Bible stories; we don’t really see too much of what she thinks of it or what else she was doing. I love Mary and she’s been an inspiration to me since I was little. Give her a book that does her justice please!
November 25, 2025
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quick Synopsis:
Mary grew up in a typical Jewish home. Shortly after her betrothal to Joseph, and angel appeared and announced that she would be the virgin mother of the Messiah.
Yeshua grew to be a well-loved child by all that knew him. He took on the role of Father to his younger brothers and sisters after Joseph's unexpected death. But the start of his earthly ministry as the Son of God shook his entire family.
His brothers refused to believe, despite their mother's prayers. Mary's life was far from easy, trying to reconcile children who couldn't understand that their brother was the Messiah, and worse... watching her beloved oldest son be crucified on a Roman cross despite never committing a crime worthy of death.
Questionable Elements:
Language - none.
Sex/nudity - references to the consummation of marriage on the wedding night, as well as other references to trying for children.
PDA - none.
Violence - two descriptions of childbirth, one in a stable. Descriptions of a Roman crucifixion (hands and feet being nailed to a cross, piercing the side of a body to see blood and water flow out proving death, breaking of legs to suffocate a victim, etc).
Final Thoughts:
Hearing the story of Christ's life and ministry told through the eyes of His mother is surprisingly not as common as you would expect. At least in books that I've read. Its very common to hear the Christmas story told from Mary's perspective. But this is the first book I've read that details His miracles, teachings, death, and Resurrection through her eyes. It was a remarkably refreshing view, but also heartbreaking at the same time. The author expounded many scenarios I had never considered (what was it like for Mary to watch her other children reject Jesus during His ministry, how crushing must it have been for her to watch Him be crucified, etc). I would absolutely recommend this book, if for no other reason than the beautiful retelling of the Gospel narrative through the eyes of an imperfect, broken mother.
Quick Synopsis:
Mary grew up in a typical Jewish home. Shortly after her betrothal to Joseph, and angel appeared and announced that she would be the virgin mother of the Messiah.
Yeshua grew to be a well-loved child by all that knew him. He took on the role of Father to his younger brothers and sisters after Joseph's unexpected death. But the start of his earthly ministry as the Son of God shook his entire family.
His brothers refused to believe, despite their mother's prayers. Mary's life was far from easy, trying to reconcile children who couldn't understand that their brother was the Messiah, and worse... watching her beloved oldest son be crucified on a Roman cross despite never committing a crime worthy of death.
Questionable Elements:
Language - none.
Sex/nudity - references to the consummation of marriage on the wedding night, as well as other references to trying for children.
PDA - none.
Violence - two descriptions of childbirth, one in a stable. Descriptions of a Roman crucifixion (hands and feet being nailed to a cross, piercing the side of a body to see blood and water flow out proving death, breaking of legs to suffocate a victim, etc).
Final Thoughts:
Hearing the story of Christ's life and ministry told through the eyes of His mother is surprisingly not as common as you would expect. At least in books that I've read. Its very common to hear the Christmas story told from Mary's perspective. But this is the first book I've read that details His miracles, teachings, death, and Resurrection through her eyes. It was a remarkably refreshing view, but also heartbreaking at the same time. The author expounded many scenarios I had never considered (what was it like for Mary to watch her other children reject Jesus during His ministry, how crushing must it have been for her to watch Him be crucified, etc). I would absolutely recommend this book, if for no other reason than the beautiful retelling of the Gospel narrative through the eyes of an imperfect, broken mother.
June 23, 2017
Mary: Chosen of God is a beautiful rendition of Jesus’ mother and her life. I was immersed into the story and felt like I was present with Mary while she was walking the streets of Nazareth, preparing a meal, going to the temple, or traveling to see her cousin Elizabeth while viewing the countryside. This novel covers not only Mary’s life but the lifespan of her beloved son, Yeshua (Jesus). I appreciated the use of Jewish words to bring the realism of the Biblical account to life. My emotions and mind seeing the scenes were captivated from the start. Each character is well developed and what may have transpired during history with the greatest story ever told. Mary lived an ordinary life with responsibilities of caring for Joseph and her children, but she pondered so much within her heart about her son, Jesus. It’s hard to fathom the heartbreak and pain she felt as Yeshua hung on the cross to become the Savior of the world. I enjoyed Biblical fiction when an author incorporates the Word of God and does not stray from the Bible. This is the first book I’ve read by Diana Wallis Taylor, but it will not be my last one.
Thank you to Whitaker House for the complimentary copy of this astonishing book. A positive review was not required but I have expressed my honest thoughts of this 5 star book by Diana Wallis Taylor.
Thank you to Whitaker House for the complimentary copy of this astonishing book. A positive review was not required but I have expressed my honest thoughts of this 5 star book by Diana Wallis Taylor.
December 10, 2016
How can you breathe fresh life into a story you know so well? Well, Diana has managed to do just that.
Even though I knew what would happen in this story I couldn’t wait to read and see how Diana would spin it and bring it to life. I really enjoyed her take.
So many times we think, oh, how sweet, Mary was pregnant with the Son of God. We forget about the shame and judgement that followed her because of what people didn’t know. She had this wonderful news yet who would believe her?
And then how would she feel when this child went to the cross? Definitely gives you a great perspective in this book and brings familiar story, new life.
Biblical fiction readers will love this, or anyone who loves the story of Jesus!!
A copy of this book was given to me through The Book Club Network, Inc. in exchange for an honest review.
Even though I knew what would happen in this story I couldn’t wait to read and see how Diana would spin it and bring it to life. I really enjoyed her take.
So many times we think, oh, how sweet, Mary was pregnant with the Son of God. We forget about the shame and judgement that followed her because of what people didn’t know. She had this wonderful news yet who would believe her?
And then how would she feel when this child went to the cross? Definitely gives you a great perspective in this book and brings familiar story, new life.
Biblical fiction readers will love this, or anyone who loves the story of Jesus!!
A copy of this book was given to me through The Book Club Network, Inc. in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2019
Very interesting read and well written as to the possibility of Mary's life at a young age to being elderly. You follow her thru her Godly conception of the Messiah; Joseph's reaction and disbelief; disbelief from friends and loved ones . Than as Joseph is visited in a dream as to God's purpose for them both, he accepts Mary and what God requires of them. As the miraculous truth unfolds, watch Mary's anguish be turned to joy, and to a newly kindled faith.
As a fictional story, it tells of Mary and Joseph having more children after Jesus, with the approval of God. This part is not accepted by the Catholic Church, but it makes for a good story.
As a fictional story, it tells of Mary and Joseph having more children after Jesus, with the approval of God. This part is not accepted by the Catholic Church, but it makes for a good story.
January 15, 2017
The cover of this book is beautiful, and so is the story inside. Diana Wallis Taylor does an excellent job of staying true to Scripture, yet filling in gaps to let the reader experience what Mary and her family might have gone through. It covers Mary's life from the time the Angel visited her to the beginning of the church after Jesus' ascension. Hebrew prayers, customs, and holidays are skillfully woven into the story-line without overwhelming it. I found myself fascinated by their traditions and worship. You do not have to be a fan of Biblical fiction to enjoy this book.
February 3, 2022
Interesting fictionalized account of the life of Mary. Simple prose. Empathetic telling of the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord. Many details of daily life such as foods served and home arrangement add color to what I had thought Biblical life to be. Some details of Judaic life were inaccurate. For example, I believe that Jewish people in early times spoke Aramaic and read/wrote Hebrew. Also, they would not have addressed G-d with that name as it was considered then as it is now too holy to be spoken.
June 12, 2018
A must read
Many books have been read and written about Mary, the young Jewish girl chosen of God to both deliver and raise the Messiah, but this book opens the reader's eyes to see it unfold from Mary's perspective.
Beautifully written with a lot of eye opening portions. Diana Taylor outdid herself once again. I felt that this book has become my favorite of her works of writing.
Many books have been read and written about Mary, the young Jewish girl chosen of God to both deliver and raise the Messiah, but this book opens the reader's eyes to see it unfold from Mary's perspective.
Beautifully written with a lot of eye opening portions. Diana Taylor outdid herself once again. I felt that this book has become my favorite of her works of writing.
September 26, 2018
A wonderful experience !
The incredibly beautiful and devotional telling of the life of Mary the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ by Diana Wallis Taylor is so well done that I was blessed to be able to read and experience again the amazing story of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.This was done with love and with much research on the biblical scripture and life of Mary and Joseph . I highly recommend this book to read!
The incredibly beautiful and devotional telling of the life of Mary the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ by Diana Wallis Taylor is so well done that I was blessed to be able to read and experience again the amazing story of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.This was done with love and with much research on the biblical scripture and life of Mary and Joseph . I highly recommend this book to read!
July 25, 2018
Wonderful, inspiring read.
This is another wonderful telling of the story of the young girl God gave the awesome responsibility of being the mother of the son of God. It is a sweet love story between Joseph and Mary and the ways they raised their family and provided God’s son with an earthly home. Loved it!
This is another wonderful telling of the story of the young girl God gave the awesome responsibility of being the mother of the son of God. It is a sweet love story between Joseph and Mary and the ways they raised their family and provided God’s son with an earthly home. Loved it!
June 29, 2023
this book is so sweet and refreshing. it reads more like a one shot from chapter to chapter which i think was nice. i think the pov and the realness of mary is really eye opening to see how someone would experience God and Jesus in that time especially as His mother
August 19, 2024
I felt the end of the book was not as detailed as the beginning. It felt rushed. True, the author would have to use more of her imagination to fill in the gaps from scripture. But that is what a historical novel does!!
February 21, 2019
Beautifully told story with the eyes of Mary. I loved it!!
December 6, 2019
4 1/2 stars
Read
February 3, 2021I found this book well worth the read and quite believable. Excellent for a thinker. This is well considered and very plausible.
February 25, 2022
Brings more awareness to what it must have been like to be the mother of Jesus.
December 14, 2022
Wonderful Read
I'm so inspired by this book. It was beautifully written and true to the life of Mary and also the life of Christ.
I'm so inspired by this book. It was beautifully written and true to the life of Mary and also the life of Christ.
December 16, 2025
Greatest story ever told. It was a lovely, thoughtful retelling with a good focus in Mary perspective and humanity.
October 5, 2016
In Mary Chosen of God, Diana Wallis Taylor takes the well-known nativity story and humanizes Mary on a level I’ve not previously seen. She writes extensively about the cycle of life in a small Galilean town, focusing on some of Mary’s more mundane activities. After all, the mother of God was also the mother to several other children, ran a busy household, and had parents to look after as well. I thought it was interesting that she portrayed Mary and Joseph as being similar in age as I’d always thought Joseph was at least a decade older. We see Mary trusting God regarding Jesus (who is called Yeshua here), but also fearing for her son. She wonders what the angel meant when it said that Yeshua would reign over Israel forever; does it mean that Yeshua will overthrow the Roman occupation?
We also read of Mary’s presence in Jerusalem when her son is arrested and crucified and then as she experiences the resurrection. Taylor attempts to show us how Mary might’ve felt watching her beloved son go through all that. Mary Chosen of God finishes on an ambiguous note: the book finishes after Pentecost and, with no mention of her in the Bible after that time, Taylor doesn’t attempt to imagine the rest of Mary’s life.
I found Mary Chosen of God easy to read and it turned a couple of my presumptions on their collective heads. Taylor takes license with small details such as the names of Jesus’s sisters, but the story as a whole is an accurate representation of the Gospel accounts. As we approach the Advent season, this would be a good insightful novel of Jesus birth to read.
Thank you to Celebrate Lit and Whitaker House for my complimentary copy of Mary Chosen of God, which I received in exchange for my honest review.
We also read of Mary’s presence in Jerusalem when her son is arrested and crucified and then as she experiences the resurrection. Taylor attempts to show us how Mary might’ve felt watching her beloved son go through all that. Mary Chosen of God finishes on an ambiguous note: the book finishes after Pentecost and, with no mention of her in the Bible after that time, Taylor doesn’t attempt to imagine the rest of Mary’s life.
I found Mary Chosen of God easy to read and it turned a couple of my presumptions on their collective heads. Taylor takes license with small details such as the names of Jesus’s sisters, but the story as a whole is an accurate representation of the Gospel accounts. As we approach the Advent season, this would be a good insightful novel of Jesus birth to read.
Thank you to Celebrate Lit and Whitaker House for my complimentary copy of Mary Chosen of God, which I received in exchange for my honest review.
March 16, 2018
This book was very good! It brought Mary to life in a way I'd not experienced before. It answered questions I'd not even thought to ask!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and The Book Club Network site. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and The Book Club Network site. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
November 3, 2016
Mary Chosen of God by author Diana Wallis Taylor is a compelling historical novelization of the life of Mary, mother of Jesus. I loved everything about this book. The cover was hauntingly beautiful and the storyline was well researched and written in such a way that I was immediately engaged. I was hooked from page one which is rare for most books.
Author Taylor has made Mary come alive on the pages of this beautiful book. Mary's kind, sweet, obedient heart is clearly depicted by her thoughts, words, deeds, and prayers. Her prayers were some of my favorite parts of the book. The customs, festivals, and daily life of Bible times were made clear through this book. It was interesting, educational, and relaxing to read about life then. Even reading about what food was served and how it was prepared was fascinating to me.
This book fills in the blanks per the author's perspective on the feelings, conversations, and activities in the life of Mary beginning when she was a young girl. It tells the love her parents had for her in choosing a husband, her shock when told she was carrying God's son before she was married, and her heartbreak at the treatment of Jesus. It is the story of a woman and will bring tears of joy and hurt as you read it. Many other characters are equally as compelling. Joseph, her husband, was portrayed as a kind, loving, handsome man. Elizabeth, her cousin, was a sage God fearing woman. It was strange though to read a fictionalization on Jesus. I am not sure how I feel about that. It was cute to read about young "Yeshua" and the bug, but I personally have trouble with fictionalizing Christ's words. However, this is a very good book and not at all demeaning or disrespectful.
All of the storytelling was done with God in mind. It is clear the author meant to honor Him in her writing. I would definitely recommend this easy to read book. There is so much to glean from it. Anyone that enjoys biblical fiction will adore this book. Any Christian will love reading it. It would make a wonderful gift for a new Christian or for a church library. I rated it a 4 out of 5 stars. I was given the book by Book Fun (The Book Club Network) and here is my honest review.
Author Taylor has made Mary come alive on the pages of this beautiful book. Mary's kind, sweet, obedient heart is clearly depicted by her thoughts, words, deeds, and prayers. Her prayers were some of my favorite parts of the book. The customs, festivals, and daily life of Bible times were made clear through this book. It was interesting, educational, and relaxing to read about life then. Even reading about what food was served and how it was prepared was fascinating to me.
This book fills in the blanks per the author's perspective on the feelings, conversations, and activities in the life of Mary beginning when she was a young girl. It tells the love her parents had for her in choosing a husband, her shock when told she was carrying God's son before she was married, and her heartbreak at the treatment of Jesus. It is the story of a woman and will bring tears of joy and hurt as you read it. Many other characters are equally as compelling. Joseph, her husband, was portrayed as a kind, loving, handsome man. Elizabeth, her cousin, was a sage God fearing woman. It was strange though to read a fictionalization on Jesus. I am not sure how I feel about that. It was cute to read about young "Yeshua" and the bug, but I personally have trouble with fictionalizing Christ's words. However, this is a very good book and not at all demeaning or disrespectful.
All of the storytelling was done with God in mind. It is clear the author meant to honor Him in her writing. I would definitely recommend this easy to read book. There is so much to glean from it. Anyone that enjoys biblical fiction will adore this book. Any Christian will love reading it. It would make a wonderful gift for a new Christian or for a church library. I rated it a 4 out of 5 stars. I was given the book by Book Fun (The Book Club Network) and here is my honest review.
October 4, 2016
Originally posted to ChristianShelfEsteem.wordpress.com
3/5 Stars: Good/Average
When I first glimpsed the cover of Mary Chosen of God, I determined it would by my Christmas novel for 2016. However, what I found was a story which spans nearly 50 years of Mary’s life and encompasses the books of Matthew through the second chapter of Acts. This book is not bound by a season.
One of the joys of reading biblical fiction is discovering new elements of Hebrew life, tradition, and culture. In this way, Diana Wallis Taylor’s retelling of the life of Mary was very rewarding. Intertwined in the narrative are thorough descriptions of the Passover Seder, Sukkot, as well as the Jewish rites of passage Jesus would have undertaken. Taylor also immerses her readers in the landscapes of the region as Mary travels first to Juttah, then to Bethlehem, Egypt, and later Cana. As devout followers of God, she and her family make multiple pilgrimages to Jerusalem. Whether in Mary’s home, the marketplace, or on the road, I could fully visualize and sense each scene.
Taylor’s writing made me wonder whether it would be more challenging to write scenes where the Bible is silent, or compose a fictional storyline where gospel accounts are well defined and familiar to readers. I found in instances where the Bible was silent, she tended to compose deeper dialogue and more engaging scenes. Where the scriptures are clear, I felt she was trying to usher her characters along to the next historically documented occurrence.
Despite it’s slow beginning, the last 2/3 of the book progressed swiftly and presented a strong gospel message. Taylor gave a believable reason why Christ may have placed Mary into John’s care from the cross. Additionally, she provided me with a new vantage point of Christ’s ministry through the viewpoint of His siblings. In short, she addresses many questions which may have arisen in your own reading of these accounts.
I received this book from Whitaker House in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
3/5 Stars: Good/Average
When I first glimpsed the cover of Mary Chosen of God, I determined it would by my Christmas novel for 2016. However, what I found was a story which spans nearly 50 years of Mary’s life and encompasses the books of Matthew through the second chapter of Acts. This book is not bound by a season.
One of the joys of reading biblical fiction is discovering new elements of Hebrew life, tradition, and culture. In this way, Diana Wallis Taylor’s retelling of the life of Mary was very rewarding. Intertwined in the narrative are thorough descriptions of the Passover Seder, Sukkot, as well as the Jewish rites of passage Jesus would have undertaken. Taylor also immerses her readers in the landscapes of the region as Mary travels first to Juttah, then to Bethlehem, Egypt, and later Cana. As devout followers of God, she and her family make multiple pilgrimages to Jerusalem. Whether in Mary’s home, the marketplace, or on the road, I could fully visualize and sense each scene.
Taylor’s writing made me wonder whether it would be more challenging to write scenes where the Bible is silent, or compose a fictional storyline where gospel accounts are well defined and familiar to readers. I found in instances where the Bible was silent, she tended to compose deeper dialogue and more engaging scenes. Where the scriptures are clear, I felt she was trying to usher her characters along to the next historically documented occurrence.
Despite it’s slow beginning, the last 2/3 of the book progressed swiftly and presented a strong gospel message. Taylor gave a believable reason why Christ may have placed Mary into John’s care from the cross. Additionally, she provided me with a new vantage point of Christ’s ministry through the viewpoint of His siblings. In short, she addresses many questions which may have arisen in your own reading of these accounts.
I received this book from Whitaker House in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
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