Redeeming Grace: Ruth's Story

Daughters of the Promised Land #3

by Jill Eileen Smith

When famine visits Bethlehem, Boaz holds out hope for rain while his relative Elimelech moves his wife Naomi and their sons to Moab. For a while, it appears the Lord is blessing Elimelech's family, and his sons marry two lovely Moabite women. But calamities strike, one after another, leaving Naomi alone in a foreign land with only her childless daughters-in-law for comfort. When news reaches Naomi that the famine in Bethlehem has lifted, only Ruth will hazard the journey to her mother-in-law's homeland. Destitute and downhearted, Naomi resigns herself to a life of bitter poverty, but Ruth holds out hope for a better future. And Boaz may be the one God has chosen to provide it.

Combining meticulous research with her endless imagination, Jill Eileen Smith gorgeously renders one of the most beautiful stories in Scripture. Readers will adore this third installment of the inspiring Daughters of the Promised Land series.

Genres: Biblical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Christian, Historical, Fiction, Romance

370 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 2017

About the author

Jill Eileen Smith is the bestselling, award-winning author of the Wives of King David series, the Wives of the Patriarchs, Daughters of the Promised Land, Heart of a King, Star of Persia, Miriam's Song, The Prince and the Prodigal, Daughter of Eden, and The Ark and the Dove. Her research has taken her from the Bible to Israel, and she particularly enjoys learning how women lived in Bible times.

When she isn’t writing, she loves to spend time with her family and friends, read stories that take her away, ride her bike to the park, snag date nights with her hubby, try out new restaurants, or play with her lovable cats Kody and Kaelee. Jill lives with her family in southeast Michigan.

Contact Jill through email (jill@jilleileensmith.com), her website (http://www.jilleileensmith.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jilleileensmith), or Twitter (https://twitter.com/JillEileenSmith).

Reviews

[Rachel McMillan]

This is a unique take on the Ruth story that differentiates itself from several other fictional retellings of the same. Opting to focus more on the customs of the day than the romantic infusion so often pursued in the Ruth and Boaz relationship, Smith draws careful characters with deft dimension. Switching from Boaz, Ruth and Naomi's points of view, she weaves a canvas that is accurate and intriguing but often at the expense of a certain spark that makes the book come alive.

I quite enjoyed her obvious depth of knowledge and the infusion of customs and rules that are not immediately familiar to those with a working knowledge of the Bible story. But, as a biased reader who just ALWAYS WANTS LIFE TO BE RUTH AND BOAZ, I felt that the sweeping Cinderella story I had found in previous incarnations, such as Tessa Afshar's In the Field of Grace, was absent here. To add, there was a missing layer of vulnerability to Ruth and she was the least drawn of the central characters.

I recognize that my criticism of some of the tenets of the story is biased on my own expectations and, thus, encourage readers of historical fiction and fans of Smith's work (like myself) to check it out and see what they think. Perhaps because I have read so many previous incarnations of the same tale, my perspective on this was shadowed... but it didn't quite strike me the way some of Smith's other ( also excellently researched) Biblical fare has.

with thanks to Netgalley for the review copy :)

[Amanda Geaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jill Eileen Smith brings a fresh perspective to the book of Ruth through her latest work, Redeeming Grace. We learn from the Bible (Ruth 1:1-5) that Naomi, her husband, and their two sons sojourned in Moab during a famine in Israel. Smith’s decision to expand and dwell in this 10-11 year period is what sets Redeeming Grace apart from other stories written about Ruth.

The first half the book is set in Moab, allowing the author to draw a stark contrast between Israel’s God and the false god Chemosh, portray how Elimelech and his sons may have been seduced by the depravity of the Moabites, and extol the benefits of living in biblical community. In the second half, set in Bethlehem, Smith’s depth of knowledge about Old Testament law shines through Naomi’s conversations with her daughter-in-law. My current reading plan has me in Leviticus, so reading detailed explanations about ritual cleansing, the Sabbath, kinsman redeemers, and the Passover Feast in a narrative format has been both interesting and rewarding. I could see where it may weigh the story down for some, but I got a lot out of it!

To have an author as skilled as Smith pen flesh, bones, and heart to Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz was a delight. I felt she remained true to the character they display in scripture and by the end of the book I felt as if I’d walked a mile in their shoes. As it is biblical fiction, there are some characters who come from the authors imagination, of them Hamul is my favorite! His story is artfully interwoven with the overarching theme of redemption.

If you haven’t read the first two books in the Daughters of the Promised Land series, don’t fret. Due to the gaps in time between each book, this book and the others can stand alone. Redeeming Grace released February 14th from Revell which means you can start reading today!

Many thanks Jill Eileen Smith for providing me with a review copy. All opinions are my own.

[Mesu · Rating 4 out of 5]

The beloved biblical story of Ruth is a favorite for many, and, as usual, Jill uses her phenomenal research skills to give deeper meaning to this familiar tale. Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz are surrounded by a host of both biblical and fictional characters that illustrate what life in Israel might have been like before a king ruled over God’s chosen people.
Writing biblical fiction is more than just recounting a biblical story. It’s about making the Truth of God’s Word believable to our modern understanding, and Jill is a master. The supporting characters and famine provide plausible reason for Naomi’s husband to move his family to Moab, and the environment of Moab is sufficiently developed to understand why two Moabite women would agree to marry Naomi’s Israelite sons. Jill also did a great job of establishing the personalities of both daughters-in-law—Orpah and Ruth—to show why one chose to stay in Moab and the other followed Naomi back to her homeland. Amid some of the details in the first half of this book, I felt a little of the emotion was lost.
When Naomi and Ruth arrive back in Bethlehem, however, the emotions rise. Boaz is the consummate wounded hero. Strong, yet sensitive. Ruggedly handsome. (Be still my heart.) Scripture tells us that Naomi was deeply wounded and embittered, but Jill chose to write Boaz as having experienced a significant measure of tragedy in his own life. He, too, questions God’s goodness and at times becomes a bit too “woe-is-me.” A fictional secondary character, Ezra, pulls him out of the doldrums and quickly becomes one of my favorites.
One of the things I love most about Jill’s books is the way she handles known and unknown Jewish theology. For instance, very little is written about the Israelites’ perspective on the afterlife during the time of the Judges (when Ruth and Boaz lived). Rather than asserting a false Jewish tradition or forcing a complicated theological theory, she simply lets one of her characters wonder as we do, “I’m not sure what it means, my friend, but I suspect our God does, and someday our children’s children will understand it better than we do today.”
If you’re looking for a well-researched and well-told recounting of the biblical story of Ruth, Redeeming Grace will encourage your heart and give you a sense for what some of your favorite Bible characters experienced.
I was given a gift copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

God does not ask for our obedience to punish us but to preserve us. He always seeks what is best for those He loves.

The story of Ruth is probably my most favorite story of the bible. It reflects our condition and the work of redemption for us. I have read several historical fictions on the story of Ruth but this account gave me a different insight that Ruth is about feminism. What feminism looks like-it is courage with humility, it is loyalty with humility, and it is centered with thinking of others first with humility.

The biblical account does not share the relationship between Naomi's family with Boaz family but this account gives a relationship that is respectful and honoring. What brought Naomi's family to Moab and how she supported her husband even though she did not agree with him. I always appreciate that context was given because it is so important to understand the tension that was so prevalent and why it matters. The first 50% of the account was their time in Moab with the death of her husband and sons then the return to Bethlehem that last 50%.

What is most revealing is how Ruth with her relationship to her mother-in-law Naomi came to know the Lord. How the Lord prepared her heart for something greater and to walk in faith with the unseen.

A Special Thank You to Revell and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not sure this book really needs a description: It is the classic, Biblical story of Ruth. Naomi, her husband, and her two sons flee the famine in Bethlehem to live in Moab. There, the brothers marry Ruth and Orpah, and then the three men of the family die. The three women are unprotected and poor, and two decide to make the trek back to Bethlehem to start afresh. And then there's Boaz, a recent widower who takes a special interest in Ruth as she works in his fields...

It is a beautiful story. The romance between Ruth and Boaz, the redemption from all the pain the characters have suffered, the new hope. This is why I have read three different retellings as well as the original several times. It's a story that never gets old.

I loved this version of it, Redeeming Grace by Jill Eileen Smith. It pulled my emotions and made me teary at the end. Watching the characters experience so much grief was hard. But the end was so beautiful and hopeful, a redemption that made everything worth it.

The historical details were interesting too. The sexism was spot on for the culture; sad, but true. And Moab, well, I appreciated the historical context. Israel had recently won a war with Moab, a fact which created tension in the characters because the Moabites were not too interested in befriending the Israelite new neighbors.

I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to fans of Biblical retellings.

I received a complementary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Redeeming Grace by Jill Eileen Smith the third book in the Daughters of the Promise Land series. This book tells the story of Ruth and Boaz. It’s an excellent retelling of one of my favorite books in the Bible. Although mostly fictional, I enjoyed getting to read about Boaz’s life before Ruth. Yes it was sad but to me it was a way of getting to see how strong his faith was. Yes he questioned it a time or two but he still trusted in God. I feel that this gave more depth to many others characters as well. I’ve enjoyed reading this series very much and look forward to reading A Passionate Hope. Though I am sad that it’s the last book in the series.

While I recommend this book I also recommend starting at the beginning of this series with The Crimson Cord.

[Loraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jill Eileen Smith is a master at Biblical Fiction. Her historical and Biblical research shines throughout each of her Biblical fiction novels. She take Ruth from her childhood through her marriage to Mahlon, his death, and the deaths of both her father-in-law and brother-in-law. Then on through the poverty of life with Naomi, her travels with Naomi back to Bethlehem, and finally her marriage to Boaz.
Ruth is a strong, confident, young woman who has been lead to a strong belief in the one God, Yahweh. Her faith guides her, supports her and leads her to the blessings of a full life with Boaz. This expanded story of Ruth is well worth the read.

[Vickie Jameson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Redeeming Grace: Ruth's Story by Jill Eileen Smith is a fictional account of one of my favorite Old Testament books of the Bible. Filled with rich detail, the author's impeccable research is evident in every chapter. I loved the characters and as I always do when reading one of Jill's books, learned things that give me greater understanding of Bible times. Themes of redemption, mercy, forgiveness and grace are woven throughout and remind the reader of God's plan of redemption for the human race. This is the third book in the Daughters of the Promised Land series. It can be read as a stand-alone novel. I highly recommend this book and give it a 5 star rating.

I received a copy of this book from the author and Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Fiction Aficionado · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Ruth is a beautiful one—for a number of reasons—but it’s sometimes easy to gloss over what life had been like for Ruth prior to meeting Boaz, and the humility of spirit she had to possess in order to make the choices that brought her to his attention. Not so in Jill Eileen Smith’s retelling—although it is as much Naomi’s and Boaz’s stories as it is Ruth’s.

The novel opens in the years immediately prior to Naomi’s husband moving their family to Moab, thus encompassing a period of some twelve or more years over the course of the story. The Biblical narrative is largely silent on the years leading up to Ruth and Naomi returning to Bethlehem, but Jill Eileen Smith has filled in those years with some well-chosen events that not only drive the story forward, but create a contrast that deepens the beauty of Boaz’s actions as kinsman redeemer.

It was also fascinating to watch Ruth on her journey towards learning about the God of Israel, in spite of the adversity she witnessed and encountered, while Naomi and Boaz both struggle in different ways to hold on to their belief in God’s goodness in the midst of their trials. Ruth’s character shines even more brightly when she reaches Bethlehem, where she humbly takes on the role of gleaning each day in order to provide for herself and Naomi in their poverty. And while romantic displays of affection between Ruth and Boaz were restrained on the page, there was an obvious depth to their love that was beautiful to behold—the more so because it was a picture of God's love and acceptance.

In short, Redeeming Grace is a satisfying read for any lover of Biblical fiction.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review.

[Christine Indorf · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good book. It made you feel like you were with Ruth and her journey. I was so excited to see her and her love to Naomi and the length Ruth goes through for her mother. Ruth was a true blessing to all she came in contact to. Glad I read it!!!!!

[Christian Fiction Addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruth has always been one of my favourite women to read about in the Bible, for her courageous decision to leave her people and her gods and to embrace Naomi as her true family and Naomi's God as her God. But I have often wondered what her life must have been like, why she didn't have any children with her first husband, why she was so motivated to leave her people.

Jill Eileen Smith has explored exactly those sort of questions in her beautifully written third installment in the "Daughters of the Promised Land" series, "Redeeming Grace". She has created a complex and likeable Ruth, a character who is true to the Biblical story from which she is drawn. Likewise, Smith also succeeds at bringing Boaz to life and giving him his own story and voice such that the tale of Ruth and Boaz became an addictive novel that I found difficult to put down. Smith's characters of both Ruth and Boaz struggle through such painful experiences that any reader will be able to relate to their experience of suffering and persevering, and the questions about God that inevitably accompany such journeys. And I think the character that I most grew to appreciate is the one of Naomi, a woman who struggled mightily to cling to God in the face of one setback after another, and yet who remains faithful despite it all. By the time I ended the book, I was greatly encouraged in my own faith! As with her other novels, Smith does an excellent job at capturing the culture and traditions of the Biblical characters she writes about, and I am so thankful for the tremendous research she clearly puts into her writing as it brings these characters to life in such an authentic way.

Redeeming Grace is another winner from Smith, and readers will love discovering Ruth in a way that they never knew before. I award this story a very solid rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

[ClaraBelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bible story of Ruth has always been one of my favs, so this makes this book my favorite biblical fiction book ever! It tells the story of Ruth, a Moabite proselyte who is famous for her friendship and devotion to her mother in law Naomi even after her husband, Mahlon, died, and for her marriage to the wealthy landowner, and familial kinsman redeemer, Boaz, with whom, she, after 11 years of infertility, had a baby son, Obed, who becomes King David’s grandpa and jesus’ancestor.
Wonderful read as it makes her story come alive without taking any extrabiblical artistic license or being too sexually explicit about her marriages or pregnancy.
Recommended for: people aged 12+
Concerns:none, except mildly graphic descriptions of pagan child sacrifice; and Ruth suspecting her first husband died as punishment for alleged adultery and spiritually unequal marriage to her and against her
Rating:a trillion stars
Reading accessibility:held my attention enrapturously the whole time

[Charity · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Even if your heart is not in it,"..."God knows. He understands why sacrifice is so hard for you-for all of us, really, for isn't that why it is called a sacrifice? If it was an easy thing to give our best-the best of our flock, the first of our harvest, not knowing if there will be more-and to give our thanks when we are not thankful, then where would the sacrifice be?"

Redeeming Grace is a fictional account of the TRUE account of Ruth from the Bible. I've always loved her history, and this book did not disappoint. It sucked me in from page one. It also caused me to consider that Boaz had been married before Ruth. Something I'd never even THOUGHT about. Why had that not occurred to me before? If you love Biblical fiction-or even if you don't, this is a book that's well worth reading.

[Sam B · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this 3rd book from the Daughters of the Promised Land series.

As the title says, this one is about Ruth's story, but Naomi also has an important place in the book.
I believe the author did a great job at bringing the reader back to this time long past. Her books are always well researched.

Ruth, though a short story, is a well known story from the Bible. But I think every reader, no matter how well they know her story, can find something new in this novel. It is a great way of rediscovering the characters and their background.

There is one book left in this series and I am sure it will be as good as the previous ones!

A big thanks to the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy! It did not affect my review in any way!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Redeeming Grace is the story of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz from the time before Naomi and her family left Bethlehem to the birth of Obed. We are given all three of their viewpoints throughout the story, and I would say that for the most part the story follows along the Biblical records. The author does take some artistic license during the years before Moab and during the time Naomi and Ruth lived in Moab. I found the author’s take very interesting and could see the meticulous research shining through. We know, according to Scripture, why Naomi and her family left their home, but why did they not return sooner? Why were Ruth and Naomi so destitute? Why were there no children in 10 years of marriage and was Boaz married before or a bachelor? The author attempts to answer these questions and gives us a believable sequence of events from her imagination and research.

What really stood out to me was how the culture of Moab was described; their gods, festivals, and evil sacrifices. We see how the culture around us can corrupt and seem pleasing even to those chosen of God. How careful we need to be to not be drawn in lest we lose not only our lives, but our souls. I liked again how Jill shows a searching Ruth, (like Rahab) who believed there was something more, a better way then what she grew up in. Hence her faithfulness to Naomi to set forth as a foreigner to a land that may not have been friendly to a foreigner from a hostile nation. The comparisons between Bethlehem and Moab the land, people, and festivals were thought provoking and interesting as well.

The love Ruth has for Naomi shines bright and her willingness to obey and put her Mother-in-law’s needs above her own. The romance and genuine love between Ruth and Boaz ultimately resulting in the birth of their son Obed, the grandfather of King David and in the ancestral line of Jesus was a treat to watch unfold.

This story does not sugar coat the trials that were faced and shows how even God’s people dealt with depression and questioned a God who was good yet allowed bad things to happen.

I received a copy of this book for free. I was not required to give a positive review and the views and opinions expressed are my own.

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another spectacular book by Jill Eileen Smith. This one based on Ruth had to be one of my favorites, because Ruth is one of my favorite books of the Bible. It was really great to see the characters come to life through Smith's writing. She's an incredible author with surprises up her sleeve, as well as keeps true to the historical facts of the Bible.

[Vicki Andrada · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Jill Eileen Smith's take on the story of Ruth. She builds vivid characters, and has quite an imagination. I do like that she doesn't gloss over how it truly was back then. Giving us the best idea she can of how things would have been back in those times. I would totally recommend this book!

[Holly Pick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked the sweetness of this book! Really well written! I could picture what Bethlehem would look like and what the festivals could’ve been like! I loved that!

[Jenn Sands · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best so far.

This is my favourite story from the Daughter of the Promised Land trilogy. It was rich in history and well researched. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys biblical fiction.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

ne of favorite stories of the Bible and one of my favorite biblical authors.
I love Bible stories because I enjoy watching our God work at changing people whether they want to not.
I admire Ruth and most especially Boaz.
Boaz more since he's lost so much and remained kind and even kept his faith through all of his tragedy.
Someone asked if this is,Ruth's story or Naomi's. I think it would be both because without Naomi, Ruth wouldn't be where she is now.
God has a plan for each and every one of us. When He closes the door like he did with Boaz sometimes whether we realize it or not there's better things waiting for us
I admire Ruth. Ruth is a special lady. I admire how she just up and left just like that.
How I wish I could just do that sometimes. I haven't because I believe something is keeping me here in good ol Lexington, Kentucky.
Grief has no time for ending. For Naomi it was a while. I couldn't imagine a great loss.
Grief does get better as time goes by even though we miss our loved ones. I can relate with Naomi. I still miss my people. I'm the soul survived of my mom and dad's family. It does get lonesome at times. It's why I'm grateful for my son and husband.
God has blessed me and continues to open my eyes with these wonderful biblical stories that His redeeming Grace is sufficient. All we have to do is ask

[Hilary · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took me a few pages to get into Redeeming Grace: Ruth's Story, as it starts by first expanding on Boaz - after all, he's an older man with no wife and no children, so there must have been some backstory - and the reasons for Elimelech to take his wife, Naomi, and their two sons to Moab, but soon I was immersed in a woman struggling to keep her customs in a new land while her husband seems to turn away.

Small details of the culture, and how daily life was managed, brought additional color and texture to the story but without bogging the reader down. Explanations and teachings were built in, bringing greater understanding and more knowledge of relationships, especially those linking Noah's sons to Egypt. Some of the characters were invented, others given names and stories of their own. The hardest thing for me was to understand the mindset of the Moabites, the somewhat cruel and uncaring nature of a society that sees no problem with human sacrifice or greed.

One of the main themes throughout is that it's all right not to understand God's plans. It's hard to trust in Him when things are falling apart, when nothing seems to go right and you seem to be punished, but trust is what He requires. He can handle your doubt and your questions, and will carry you through.


Disclaimer: I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Trixi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short back cover blurb:
“One devoted woman is about to discover the power of love”


The biblical account of Ruth and Naomi has long been a favorite of mine. Since I am a romantic at heart, the tender love story between Boaz & Ruth at the end always stirs my emotions. To say I was excited to read this authors perspective is putting it mildly! It was so much more than I expected; with a depth that brought this story to life in a new & refreshing way.

To step into Naomi’s shoes in the beginning opened my eyes to how life was in 1297 B.C. Not only would it be fulfilling to be among a people who devoted their lives to Adonai (God), but also lived obeying His law. Even in the hard times of drought that plagued Bethlehem, they put their trust in God! Even when Adonai took her husband and two sons, God provided in ways she never expected! Ruth was a devoted daughter-in-law who left Moab not only to care for her, but to also make Naomi’s God her God. To watch the life journey these two took left me with a new appreciation for their devotion and love for each other. And to question whether I would do the same in Ruth’s position. It was very thought provoking! Finally, to watch Boaz care for all that Adonai blessed him with; the abundant crops, servants who tended to everyday things, and how he provided for the poor which eventually included Ruth & Naomi. His faithfulness to obey the law Adonai laid out made me glimpse the type of Godly man he was. Reading the entire account in novel form was a true delight! It brought new meaning and understanding to how life was, how the people lived, and even how the law worked. I enjoyed exploring the many layers & depth to this. I experienced a vast roller coaster of emotions, from elation to deep grieving and anywhere in between. Finally, I delighted in reading the love story between Boaz and Ruth. Their tender care and adoration of each other reminded me how much more God loves me! If you love biblical fiction told in a way as to bring the story anew and give you a deeper understanding, then I highly recommend both Redeeming Grace & this authors other biblical fiction novels!

*I received a complimentary copy from the author. A favorable review was not required and all opinions expressed here are strictly my own.*

[Anne Rightler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Redeeming Grace is the third book in the Daughters of the Promised Land by Jill Eileen Smith and is a wonderfully written historical novel. Redeeming Grace is Ruth's story. A much-beloved story of the Old Testament becomes even more endearing and real with the expert touch of this author's hand. Naomi, heartbroken, leaves her drought-stricken homeland only to find more heartache in the land of Moab. She became more wretched than she ever thought possible--her heart felt nothing but pain. Ruth, a Moabitess, an alien in a foreign land, a young woman who just wants to be loved, finds herself married to an Israelite whose God might just be One who hears her prayers. Boaz is a trusted elder and leader in Bethlehem who knows following God's Law is always the right thing to do, despite the sometimes inexplicable harshness of life. The blending of these three lives as they each go through loss and grief, filled with disillusionment, anger, and bitterness is a testament to a gracious and redemptive God. The author gives great attention to historical detail and with beautiful prose and dynamic dialogue fleshes out these characters so they seem to step out of history right into the reader's heart. To watch Ruth's faith grow from belief in a false god to believing in Naomi's God and on to belief in a personal God is marvelous. To read how God changes seemingly wasted years in Moab into a blessing for Naomi is miraculous. And to recognize that even though one is often left with the broken remains of what once was, there is hope that God makes all things new. Redeeming grace is a wonderful story of renewal, resurrection, and redemption...a story you will not want to miss.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher. A positive review was not expected and the opinions are my own.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Redeeming Grace: Ruth's Story is book three from the Daughters of the Promised Land series. I loved this book and I believe it is my favorite of the series. I thought Jill Eileen Smith beautifully told Ruth's story. I enjoyed how she imagined how Ruth, Naomi, Boaz and others lived. The descriptions are so vivid that I felt like I had stepped back in time and into the pages of the Book of Ruth.
I highly recommend this fantastic fictional account of Ruth's life and others who lived during her time.
100 stars

[Kristi Drillien · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't like this book nearly as much as I'd hoped. Some of that I'm sure is personal preference, since Ruth is my favorite book in the Bible and the account of Ruth and Boaz has long held a kind of romance for me. Even outside of that, though, I think there were some issues with how the author handled this retelling.

The author spent so much time on some things and not enough time on others, in my opinion. For example, not to be too flippant about it, but the story doesn't really get going until Naomi's husband and sons have all died. This is covered in 5 verses of the 4 total chapters of Ruth in the Bible, but by 130 of the 350 pages of the book. Some of that time was spent introducing Ruth's character, but a lot of her personality and loyalty can easily be seen in her actions later in the story. Some of those pages were given to Boaz, too, during which he had a wife of more than 10 years. If you're like me and would have thrown the book across the room if this account had made Ruth a 2nd wife to Boaz (while the 1st wife was alive, a common practice in those days), don't worry. I still don't care for how it all worked out, romance-wise, but at least it wasn't that.

What I wish the author had spent more time on was showing and explaining some of the customs that might seem strange to us modern folks, like why Ruth uncovered Boaz's feet on the threshing floor. And this leads to my other main issue with the story, the blending of the fictional with what is directly out of the Bible. Though Smith does do a decent job of making the dialog seem like something from back then most of the time, when the characters say words that are taken directly from Scripture, the difference is a bit jolting to me. And I believe that Boaz's first marriage in this story is likely a way of explaining why he is an older man, yet unmarried, but Boaz in the Bible speaks about God as if he fully trusts in Him and believes in His goodness. Yet here we have a Boaz who is broken and questioning God, even for a while feeling a bit numb to Him, yet still speaks those same trustful words to Ruth at the necessary time from the biblical account...it just doesn't mesh.

What I did love, however, is Ruth herself and how she's portrayed in this book. I think the author did right by the biblical account in that respect, and I really liked Ruth's conversion and how she always wanted to know more about Naomi's God and the Israelite customs. I also appreciated the completely fictional side-story of Hamul, Elimelech's brother's son, both in its own respect and in how it showed Boaz following not only the letter of the law, but also the spirit of it.

I do wonder if I should cease attempts to find a fictionalized version of this account, because it may be impossible to find one to my liking. I think, though, that what bothers me most is when the author feels the need to come up with modern-mindset reasons for things from the historical account, even though we all know how different cultures were back then. Also, this is another Christian book where a newly married couple's first night together is described a bit further than I would prefer. Not graphic by any means, but enough to make me start to feel uncomfortable before we moved on. If you're interested in reading this book, however, don't let me dissuade you. Many other people thought it was great, and you can check out their reviews at the link below.

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 stars! This was a beautiful book in so many ways. Based on a Bible story, by use of the little-known Christian Fiction genre, Miss Jill Eileen Smith creates an in-depth look at the life of Ruth. The writing was lovely, relaxing, and everything I wanted in the story. I would consider the ending a happy love story because everything turned out so wonderful in the end. It was romantic, but not too romantic. It was slow, but not too slow. I felt compassion, urgency, ruthlessness, and so many more emotions through her characters in the story!

I love the fact that Miss Smith did oh-so-much research to ensure the information was accurate in terms of living during the time period. I never even thought of what their homes would look like, how the would speak, how sacrifice at the tabernacle worked, what they ate, or other basic things people do. Don't misinterpret this for the actual Bible, because it is not, but it is an extremely close account of what would have happened during that time. References, character dialogue, and plot lines throughout the entire book align perfectly with the Bible book of Ruth. It truly gave me a greater perspective on the story of Ruth and what redeeming grace really is!


Quick Plot Summary:

Ruth is just an ordinary woman, living in Moab, when she decides to marry Malhon. Ruth's father died in battle, her mother married a rich, heartless governor, and she had no siblings. Her friend Oprah marries Malhon's brother, Chilon. Naomi becomes Ruth's mother-in-law, and Elimelech becomes her father-in-law. Their family decided to move from Israel to Moab because of the famine in Israel, as well as lack of harvest. Oprah becomes pregnant, and delivers a baby boy, but immediantly after birth her husband takes the son and offers it as a sacrifice to their fake idol god "chemosh." Oprah is heartbroken, as her husband never told her she would have to do such a thing. Soon after their move, Elimelech dies, and later on, Malhon and Chilon both become ill and die suddenly. Naomi and Ruth cannot help but question their true God, Adonai's, plans for them, as from their perspective He has taken away almost everything from them.

Years later, Naomi and Ruth hear news the famine has been lifted in Israel, and decide to move back! Naomi used to be a respected woman in the community, known best for helping others. Now, others are returning her help and supporting her and Ruth. Naomi is extremely grateful for Ruth's presence, as Ruth left everything behind to follow Naomi and learn more about Adonai. Ruth begins gleaning (picking up barley left from harvest) in a man named Boaz's field. Little does Ruth know, but Boaz's wife Adi died, and he is now a widower. Ruth and Naomi have enough food to live, and soon Naomi wants a marriage to happen between Ruth and Boaz! Boaz chooses to redeem Ruth, by taking her as his wife, and once again Ruth will be a respected woman in society with a wonderful husband. Together they have a child, and through their lineage comes David the King!


*Note: the time frame in which I read this book does not reflect my usual reading schedule. Life and school happened, and I was unavoidably detained from reading in general for a few weeks. I absolutely loved this book!

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book opens with birth and death all on the first page. Usually I shy away from biblical fiction but I found this intriguing. I dont know if this is true for anyone else but I know that sometimes I think of Biblical characters as having everything under control, everything picture perfect and less bad days than other people so its refreshing to see something exciting.

That said, my assumptions are not true and the more time I spend in the Bible the more I understand that the people it focuses on were real people too with the same problems we have today.

I found the grief that Boaz feels and expresses to be beautiful. Not only does it make him more realistic but it shows character and virtue to unashamedly show his emotion. He is very gentle throughout the book and concerned for the well being of others.

I really like the way that the author tries to make the problems and experiences of the characters universal. Instead of making the book "about" people in the desert thousands of years ago, the emphasis is people who rely on God for difficult things. Today, of course, there are many difficult things!

I also think that the author does a better job of telling Bible stories than any other fiction book I can think of. Usually its painful and poorly integrated but this is really well done. The author explains passages about plagues and the Passover and makes them meaningful. For example, you may wonder "Why were the people in the Bible attacked by plagues?" or "What does it mean to be redeemed?" and the author discusses these questions.

One of my favorite passages (I don't find many 5 star books so I am super excited about this one) was one solidifying that "Yes! Everyone can be welcomed into God's family!"

​There are also lots and lots of agricultural analogies to help break down confusing concepts.

To me, the only weakness is the title which honestly seems to have very little to do with the book. You almost expect a character named Grace... but there isnt anyone named Grace.

In the end, I think the author does a good job of connecting with the audience through the book. To me, the target audience seems to be Christian women. I am not sure that someone who is not religious would enjoy the book but you also don't have to be very familiar with the story of Ruth, which this series focuses on, to understand the plot.

I think that this book would be great for Christian women who prefer clean romance, but that nonreligious people could learn a lot from the book without feeling offended.

[Jessica Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another well-known story of redemption told beautifully.

Many people know the story of Ruth, or at least they think they do. But is it really Ruth’s story? Or Naomi’s story? When Elimelech and Naomi leave Bethlehem with their two sons to find relief from the famine, they come to the land of Moab. Moab is land that worships gods made of stone and wood, which the people offer human sacrifices to. But Elimelech isn’t worried as the land he is harvesting is very plenty and bountiful. But when he is suddenly mauled by a bear on his way home from the town, things begin to change in Naomi’s life. Suddenly both her sons plan to take Moabite women as their wives rather than from their own people. These two women are Orpah and Ruth. As the years go own, Naomi’s sons become more engrossed in the culture and working the land rather than returning home until they suddenly become ill and die on the same day. Now in grief, Naomi plans to return home, but releases the holds of her two daughters-in-law so that they may return to their families. Orpah leaves and returns, but Ruth journey’s back with Naomi to Bethlehem, but will she be welcome?

I end the synopsis here because if you do not know the story of Ruth, I want you to read this fantastic fictional account. I have always loved the history that Jill Eileen Smith brings to her stories and how the details always seem to fall into place. The book of Ruth in the Bible is very short and may appear vague when you read it. It may leave you with questions as to why was Ruth so loyal to Naomi? But I believe it is really more about the change in culture over time with regard to the Bible. When the Israelites would have heard the story of Ruth recited, they would have known the importance of land possession and the kinsman redeemer. Today, the common person probably doesn’t have the same biblical knowledge as they did at the time. Thankfully, this book really takes on the story and tells it in such a way that makes it extremely understandable. This is one of my favorite stories and this book just makes it that much better.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.

[Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

She's done it again. I have read books from several of Jill Eileen Smith's different series now, and she just gets better and better! Perhaps her greatest strength is the obvious amount of research she does before writing her stories. Redeeming Grace is a fictional retelling of the biblical story of Ruth. Anyone who is even remotely familiar with Ruth's story knows that there isn't much in the biblical account of Naomi and Ruth's life before returning to Bethlehem. In fact, Naomi, Elimelek, Mahlon, and Kilion leave Bethlehem, travel to Moab, and live in Moab for 10 years (plus some other stuff which I won't mention for spoilers sake) all within the first 5 verses of the Book of Ruth!!! Naomi and her daughters-in-law are already traveling back to Bethlehem by Chapter 1, Verse 6!
 
Haven't you ever wondered what it was like in Moab? What Naomi's life was like there? What happened to Mahlon and Kilion? Who Ruth and Orpah really were? Why Naomi's sons married Moabites? I have! Of course, we don't really know. God gives us in the Bible everything we need to know, but not everything there IS to know, and that is how it should be. Jill Eileen Smith does not have a crystal ball or some secret historical document. She does not know the answers to any of these questions. But she does have an imagination and a great deal of knowledge through research. With those two things combined, she has managed to write a fictional account of what COULD be a POSSIBLE scenario that answers some of our questions. That's what biblical fiction is. And Jill Eileen Smith is the master craftsman. Just to give you an idea, Naomi, Ruth, and Orpah don't set out for Bethlehem until CHAPTER 21. Chapter 21 people!!
 
This book will keep your attention for hours, and you will be just spellbound by the story Jill Eileen Smith tells about these flawed people, in a story whose main character ends up being in the lineage of Jesus Christ.

I received this book free from Revell through the Revell Reads program. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.

[Jasmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her choice to follow changed history...

The story of Ruth is probably one of the most done, redone, and overdone, Biblical accounts made into Christian fiction. But then someone comes along and brings a fresh perspective, a different take, on the well-known story. Redeeming Grace is one of those 'different' books. Jill Eileen Smith takes a story that we all know by heart and from it weaves a tale that is both familiar and new.

Redeeming Grace is more than just the romance between Ruth and Boaz, though that is important. What really stood out to me was Ruth's love for Naomi and her journey, both the physical one and the spiritual, from the darkness of Moab to freedom and love in Israel. But even more than that I was really caught by the age-old question that Naomi and Boaz struggle with...why does God allow such devastating loss and pain to happen to those who genuinely seek to follow Him. I think their struggles are ones that we all face at some point in our lives...

The ancient people and places of the Bible come to life in rich detail under the skillful pen of Jill Eileen Smith as she encourages Biblical understanding through the medium of fiction. The Daughters Of The Promised Land series is a must read for Biblical fans and those that need the reminder that God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow...

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)