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Daughters of the Promised Land #4
A Passionate Hope: Hannah's Story
Hannah and her husband, Elkanah, share a deep and abiding love, for each other, for their God, and for his tabernacle at Shiloh. Greatly disturbed by the corruption of the priests, they long for restoration and pray for a deliverer. But nothing changes as the years pass. Years that also reveal Hannah to be barren.
Pressured by his family to take another wife, Elkanah marries Peninnah, who quickly begins to bear children. Disgraced and taunted by her husband's new wife, Hannah turns again to prayers that seem doomed to go unanswered. Do her devotion and kindness in the face of Peninnah's cruelty count for nothing? Why does God remain silent and indifferent to her pleas?
Travel back to the dusty streets of Shiloh with an expert guide as Jill Eileen Smith brings to life a beloved story of hope, patience, and deliverance that shows that even the most broken of relationships can be restored.
Pressured by his family to take another wife, Elkanah marries Peninnah, who quickly begins to bear children. Disgraced and taunted by her husband's new wife, Hannah turns again to prayers that seem doomed to go unanswered. Do her devotion and kindness in the face of Peninnah's cruelty count for nothing? Why does God remain silent and indifferent to her pleas?
Travel back to the dusty streets of Shiloh with an expert guide as Jill Eileen Smith brings to life a beloved story of hope, patience, and deliverance that shows that even the most broken of relationships can be restored.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2018
89 people are currently reading
1663 people want to read
About the author
Jill Eileen Smith
28 books1,479 followersJill 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).
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).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
January 29, 2018
Sometimes the smallest stories in the Bible turn out to be the biggest, life-changing ones. Author Jill Eileen Smith has taken the story of Hannah (the mother of Samuel) and breathed so much life into it that I feel as if I've gone back in time and mourned and rejoiced along with Hannah herself.
The characters of Hannah and her husband Elkanah were very well-developed, and while the two were wholeheartedly devoted to the Lord, the author has shown that even then sometimes we fail miserably at being obedient to the One we serve.
Like Abraham and Sarah who prayed for a son and whom God promised they would have, Elkanah gave into the sin of polygamy by refusing to wait on God. How Hannah endured the taunts and barbs of his new wife Penninah, who gave him child after child, is shown throughout this book. I was actually angry at Elkanah because he deliberately cheated on his wife, to get what he wanted - children. Granted, he was forced into the marriage by his mother, and even by Hannah who grudgingly agreed but still, he could have said no.
But then the theme of this story would not have come through - that of waiting on God for our answers to prayer. That, I believe is the hardest part of being obedient to God. We like to think we can force His hand or prod it along to get our way, but God has the final say in the matter.
Smith did an excellent job including biblical accounts of the evil priests Phineas and Hophni, preparing the way for the son Hannah would eventually have - Samuel, who would help bring change to Israel.
If you want an inspiring read, that will stay with you days later grab a copy of A Passionate Hope!
The characters of Hannah and her husband Elkanah were very well-developed, and while the two were wholeheartedly devoted to the Lord, the author has shown that even then sometimes we fail miserably at being obedient to the One we serve.
Like Abraham and Sarah who prayed for a son and whom God promised they would have, Elkanah gave into the sin of polygamy by refusing to wait on God. How Hannah endured the taunts and barbs of his new wife Penninah, who gave him child after child, is shown throughout this book. I was actually angry at Elkanah because he deliberately cheated on his wife, to get what he wanted - children. Granted, he was forced into the marriage by his mother, and even by Hannah who grudgingly agreed but still, he could have said no.
But then the theme of this story would not have come through - that of waiting on God for our answers to prayer. That, I believe is the hardest part of being obedient to God. We like to think we can force His hand or prod it along to get our way, but God has the final say in the matter.
Smith did an excellent job including biblical accounts of the evil priests Phineas and Hophni, preparing the way for the son Hannah would eventually have - Samuel, who would help bring change to Israel.
If you want an inspiring read, that will stay with you days later grab a copy of A Passionate Hope!
February 8, 2018
Wow! A Passionate Hope, fourth in the Daughters of the Promised Land series, is another wonderfully written historical novel by Jill Eileen Smith. Having read others in this series, I knew what to expect and was not disappointed. Hannah, probably a fairly well-known woman of the Scriptures, comes to life at the hand of this author. She is the beloved yet barren wife of Elkanah and has loved and obeyed Adonai all her years. Why would He not hear her cries and answer her prayers? Even knowing the Biblical account and how it begins and ends, I am impressed with the wonderful job the author does of fleshing out the individuals, crafting them into characters that are believable and have issues that readers can connect with. Hannah, blessed with a husband who has given her his total affection and yet she is often filled with despair and time and again feels worthless sometimes to the point of wishing she could just disappear from this life God has given her. Elkanah is portrayed as a man whose heart is after God, sorrowful for his beloved wife, and a dutiful husband to Peninnah, the haughty and embittered sister-wife. In reading this book, I am reminded of the old adage 'there is nothing new under the sun'. Some of the behaviors the author writes of could be headlines from current newspapers. Dynamic dialogue, descriptive scenes and the smooth flow of the story grab and keep the reader's attention. A Passionate Hope is a story of a woman who wants to give God all she has and of a God who hears and restores the brokenness in one's heart, a story you do not want to miss.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
January 12, 2018
I am reviewing this book from an Advanced Reading Copy from the publisher. I am not being compensated in anyway for the review of this book other than receiving a copy of the book.
I don’t normally read historical novels, particularly Christian ones, as I can rarely relate to the culture of the characters. However, having recently studied Hannah’s story I thought I would give this one a try. It is usually difficult to retain interest in a work of fiction if you already know the key points of the tale, as well as how the story ends. But in this case, I was never bored, as Jill Smith surprised me again and again with the direction in which she took her tale.
Both the frustrations and the determination of Hannah were very relatable. A picture is also painted of the backgrounds of the other main characters, so that we may understand their motivations and, at least somewhat, empathize with them also. The author also tackled the cultural climate of trying to worship under a corrupt priesthood. And the daily cycles of the life of a woman of this period is also well delineated, with no jarring hints of a modern mindset.
There was not a lot of depth of characterization at the beginning, but then again, the very young rarely have a lot of depth of character. As Hannah faced the challenges of being a barren wife and unhappy daughter-in-law, we see her faith grow. By the tale’s end, the combination of strength and femininity that was Hannah’s from the very beginning, became the fully mature hallmarks of that woman whose faith and compassion are the result of a trial by fire. She is the sort of woman we would like to become. And the sort of woman we would like to know.
I don’t normally read historical novels, particularly Christian ones, as I can rarely relate to the culture of the characters. However, having recently studied Hannah’s story I thought I would give this one a try. It is usually difficult to retain interest in a work of fiction if you already know the key points of the tale, as well as how the story ends. But in this case, I was never bored, as Jill Smith surprised me again and again with the direction in which she took her tale.
Both the frustrations and the determination of Hannah were very relatable. A picture is also painted of the backgrounds of the other main characters, so that we may understand their motivations and, at least somewhat, empathize with them also. The author also tackled the cultural climate of trying to worship under a corrupt priesthood. And the daily cycles of the life of a woman of this period is also well delineated, with no jarring hints of a modern mindset.
There was not a lot of depth of characterization at the beginning, but then again, the very young rarely have a lot of depth of character. As Hannah faced the challenges of being a barren wife and unhappy daughter-in-law, we see her faith grow. By the tale’s end, the combination of strength and femininity that was Hannah’s from the very beginning, became the fully mature hallmarks of that woman whose faith and compassion are the result of a trial by fire. She is the sort of woman we would like to become. And the sort of woman we would like to know.
January 31, 2018
Biblical fiction at it's finest! Jill never fails to transport me back into the pages of scripture with her writing, as if I'm right in the midst of the people & culture of the times. Surrounded by the sights, sounds, and feel of Shiloh & the annual feasts this time around in her book. Honestly, it's as real as being there myself!
She also always nudges me to re-read the account of whatever character she chooses to portray in whatever book I happen to be reading. Though I've probably read the account of Hannah, her husband Elkanah & Peninnah many times in the Bible, the author has a way of breathing life into them who I only know through God's word. Making them real in my mind and feeling, seeing, tasting and touching everything they do. From walking with them on the dust covered roads as they travel to many feasts, and seeing the priests & many sacrifices made in the temple. It must have been quite a lot to take in, and to worship Adonai so freely among others who do the same must have been incredible! My own spirit leaps with them!
I'd have to say I resonated with Hannah in so many ways. Not in the fact that she couldn't bear children, but that she wrestled with doubt that God heard her prayers when she prayed in earnest for a child, especially after so many years of barrenness. And when Peninnah cruely reminded her and oftentimes goaded her after bearing her own children. I know she had faith in the Lord and loved Him with all her heart, but I also know how it is to doubt. Both her and Elkanah also saw the wickedness of the priests & corruption of the temple and wondered how long God would tolerate it. They struggled with how a loving God could ever put up with evil! The author reminded us throughout the book that no matter our doubts or questions, God is a God that does hear and see even when we think He seems silent. I also know He used their son Samuel to mete out His judgment. But oh, my mother heart grieved when it came time to send him to live with Eli (the high priest) to fulfill Hannah's vow!
Loved this book, just like the others I've read by Jill. She brings so much life to them and reminds us of God's ways in our own lives. Biblical fiction has quickly become one of my favorite genres thanks to authors like this who prod us to delve into God's word even deeper!
Favorite lines:
Page 34: “Did not Moses say that our God is near to us whenever we pray to Him? I think He hears our prayers no matter where we pray them. I don't think our God is hindered by where we are.”
Page 68: “If a foreign country were trying to invade us, we could join forces and oppose them, but we are corrupt from within our own tribes and leaders. How are we suppose to battle that?”
Page 69: Hannah talking; “ I do not understand how the God I worship could allow a widow to be so bereft. Or why He allows the priests to act as they do without consequence.” She searched his face. “Do you know?”
Elkanah's response; “You ask hard questions, my love. Who can truly know the mind of God? He tells us to pray, He commands our obedience, but His ways are not our ways. How can one created understand the One who made him?”
* I received a complimentary copy by the publisher on behalf of the author. No favorable review was required. *
She also always nudges me to re-read the account of whatever character she chooses to portray in whatever book I happen to be reading. Though I've probably read the account of Hannah, her husband Elkanah & Peninnah many times in the Bible, the author has a way of breathing life into them who I only know through God's word. Making them real in my mind and feeling, seeing, tasting and touching everything they do. From walking with them on the dust covered roads as they travel to many feasts, and seeing the priests & many sacrifices made in the temple. It must have been quite a lot to take in, and to worship Adonai so freely among others who do the same must have been incredible! My own spirit leaps with them!
I'd have to say I resonated with Hannah in so many ways. Not in the fact that she couldn't bear children, but that she wrestled with doubt that God heard her prayers when she prayed in earnest for a child, especially after so many years of barrenness. And when Peninnah cruely reminded her and oftentimes goaded her after bearing her own children. I know she had faith in the Lord and loved Him with all her heart, but I also know how it is to doubt. Both her and Elkanah also saw the wickedness of the priests & corruption of the temple and wondered how long God would tolerate it. They struggled with how a loving God could ever put up with evil! The author reminded us throughout the book that no matter our doubts or questions, God is a God that does hear and see even when we think He seems silent. I also know He used their son Samuel to mete out His judgment. But oh, my mother heart grieved when it came time to send him to live with Eli (the high priest) to fulfill Hannah's vow!
Loved this book, just like the others I've read by Jill. She brings so much life to them and reminds us of God's ways in our own lives. Biblical fiction has quickly become one of my favorite genres thanks to authors like this who prod us to delve into God's word even deeper!
Favorite lines:
Page 34: “Did not Moses say that our God is near to us whenever we pray to Him? I think He hears our prayers no matter where we pray them. I don't think our God is hindered by where we are.”
Page 68: “If a foreign country were trying to invade us, we could join forces and oppose them, but we are corrupt from within our own tribes and leaders. How are we suppose to battle that?”
Page 69: Hannah talking; “ I do not understand how the God I worship could allow a widow to be so bereft. Or why He allows the priests to act as they do without consequence.” She searched his face. “Do you know?”
Elkanah's response; “You ask hard questions, my love. Who can truly know the mind of God? He tells us to pray, He commands our obedience, but His ways are not our ways. How can one created understand the One who made him?”
* I received a complimentary copy by the publisher on behalf of the author. No favorable review was required. *
March 12, 2018
Originally posted on Reveries Reviews.
Title: A Passionate Hope: Hannah’s Story
Author: Jill Eileen Smith
Series: Daughters of the Promised Land, #4
Genre: Biblical Fiction
Era: Biblical (Hannah, mother of Samuel)
Publisher: Revell Books
Source: from Netgalley (in exchange for honest review)
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Hannah and her husband, Elkanah, share a deep and abiding love, for each other, for their God, and for his tabernacle at Shiloh. Greatly disturbed by the corruption of the priests, they long for restoration and pray for a deliverer. But nothing changes as the years pass. Years that also reveal Hannah to be barren.
Pressured by his family to take another wife, Elkanah marries Peninnah, who quickly begins to bear children. Disgraced and taunted by her husband’s new wife, Hannah turns again to prayers that seem doomed to go unanswered. Do her devotion and kindness in the face of Peninnah’s cruelty count for nothing? Why does God remain silent and indifferent to her pleas?
Travel back to the dusty streets of Shiloh with an expert guide as Jill Eileen Smith brings to life a beloved story of hope, patience, and deliverance that shows that even the most broken of relationships can be restored.
A sweet but heartbreaking but hopeful story of how Hannah’s life could have been. I really enjoyed it and finished it in just a couple days – and as it was almost four hundred pages (380, anyway), that’s a wonder!
PLOT: 4/5
I believe it’s very important to take all Biblical fiction with a grain of salt. We don’t know that was how it was for sure. And basing an entire novel – especially a long novel like this one! – based on the life of someone from the Bible about whose life very few details were given is very risky.
I did like it, though! Don’t get me wrong. It was entertaining and for the most part kept my interest. At times it seemed to drag a wee bit – and I was curious as to when this whole boring life of Hannah’s was going to end! ;) But it was a great story with a great message.
I don’t know that I believe that Hannah was approaching middle-age (in modern-day terms) when Samuel was born. It just wasn’t what I’d thought of whenever I read the Biblical account.
I always imagined the story like this: I bet she was married around fourteen or fifteen and had Samuel when she was, oh, late twenties. I don’t remember if it was specified in the Biblical account that Hannah was the first wife; I kind of thought of her as the second, younger wife. And I don’t think it took her that long to think to offer her son as a Nazarene. That would have been the first thing that occured to me … ;)
But really, we don’t know, so this account is as likely as any other. It was definitely believable, which is more than I can say about some Biblical fiction!
CHARACTERS: 5/5
Hannah was an amazing character. Her faith, patience, and kindness were incredible. She was the kind of person I know I’d want to be friends with. Definitely worth reading the book just to see her Christ-like example of life even through trials. (And the girl didn’t even have Christ as an example, come to think of it!)
Elkanah was pretty caring and protecting. At first I was skeptical, but I came to understand his motivations for taking a second wife, etc., and I forgive him – in part, at least. Bigamy is never a good thing – it’s completely against God’s perfect design for marriage. Still, I came to understand why he did it, so it made me a bit more sympathetic.
It was also hard to like him because he treated Penninah kinda unfairly. I mean, he just married her for children, and then made it clear to her through his actions that he didn’t really care for her.
So yeah, despite his sweetness to Hannah, I didn’t love Elkanah.
I was surprised to find myself sympathizing with Penninah. She was a truly terrible person, honestly; just a whiny little brat. But I get where she’s coming from, and I wanted her to have some sort of happy ending. (Though if she died young, I wouldn’t have minded that either! :P )
I hate Hophni and Phineas. Even more than I did based on reading the Biblical accounts. And their poor wives … <3 :(
SETTING: 5/5
Excellent! I really got sucked back into the thousands-of-years-ago setting. (Probably 3,000 years ago? I’d have to actually think about it.) Quite fascinating. The author really seems to know her stuff!
As, outside of the Bible, I haven’t done a ton of research, I wouldn’t know if it wasn’t accurate in any way. To me, it seemed perfect. Good job to the author!
WRITING: 4/5
The author’s style was enjoyable and understandable. Very flowing and melodic. I occasionally found it difficult to understand point-of-view switches, but other than that, well done.
CONTENT: 3/5
Language: n/a
Violence: mentions of wars, invading countries, etc. No graphic violence.
Sexual: mentions of sexual interactions between Elkanah and his wives (ugh, writing wives in relation to one man gives me the shivers!), but no details were given. Somewhat detailed descriptions of birth that may make some uncomfortable. The priests are evil and take advantage of young girls, oftentimes leaving them pregnant. Their illegitimate children run around the temple. Treated as very wrong.
Other: mentions of burnt offerings, sacrifices, animals being slaughtered for those sacrifices, etc. Blood and animal-sacrificing/killing, few details. Both Hannah and Penninah contemplate suicide at times. Penninah comes pretty close.
More adult content than bad content. I’d say 14+ for sexual mentions as well as the priest’s evilness being disturbed. If you’re disturbed by childbirth (which is not something I understand, but …), then use discretion.
OVERALL: 4.5/5
A great story I’d recommend to any lovers of Biblical fiction! This has always been a favorite story with me, so it was a great treat for me, and I’d definitely reread it someday.
~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews
Title: A Passionate Hope: Hannah’s Story
Author: Jill Eileen Smith
Series: Daughters of the Promised Land, #4
Genre: Biblical Fiction
Era: Biblical (Hannah, mother of Samuel)
Publisher: Revell Books
Source: from Netgalley (in exchange for honest review)
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Hannah and her husband, Elkanah, share a deep and abiding love, for each other, for their God, and for his tabernacle at Shiloh. Greatly disturbed by the corruption of the priests, they long for restoration and pray for a deliverer. But nothing changes as the years pass. Years that also reveal Hannah to be barren.
Pressured by his family to take another wife, Elkanah marries Peninnah, who quickly begins to bear children. Disgraced and taunted by her husband’s new wife, Hannah turns again to prayers that seem doomed to go unanswered. Do her devotion and kindness in the face of Peninnah’s cruelty count for nothing? Why does God remain silent and indifferent to her pleas?
Travel back to the dusty streets of Shiloh with an expert guide as Jill Eileen Smith brings to life a beloved story of hope, patience, and deliverance that shows that even the most broken of relationships can be restored.
A sweet but heartbreaking but hopeful story of how Hannah’s life could have been. I really enjoyed it and finished it in just a couple days – and as it was almost four hundred pages (380, anyway), that’s a wonder!
PLOT: 4/5
I believe it’s very important to take all Biblical fiction with a grain of salt. We don’t know that was how it was for sure. And basing an entire novel – especially a long novel like this one! – based on the life of someone from the Bible about whose life very few details were given is very risky.
I did like it, though! Don’t get me wrong. It was entertaining and for the most part kept my interest. At times it seemed to drag a wee bit – and I was curious as to when this whole boring life of Hannah’s was going to end! ;) But it was a great story with a great message.
I don’t know that I believe that Hannah was approaching middle-age (in modern-day terms) when Samuel was born. It just wasn’t what I’d thought of whenever I read the Biblical account.
I always imagined the story like this: I bet she was married around fourteen or fifteen and had Samuel when she was, oh, late twenties. I don’t remember if it was specified in the Biblical account that Hannah was the first wife; I kind of thought of her as the second, younger wife. And I don’t think it took her that long to think to offer her son as a Nazarene. That would have been the first thing that occured to me … ;)
But really, we don’t know, so this account is as likely as any other. It was definitely believable, which is more than I can say about some Biblical fiction!
CHARACTERS: 5/5
Hannah was an amazing character. Her faith, patience, and kindness were incredible. She was the kind of person I know I’d want to be friends with. Definitely worth reading the book just to see her Christ-like example of life even through trials. (And the girl didn’t even have Christ as an example, come to think of it!)
Elkanah was pretty caring and protecting. At first I was skeptical, but I came to understand his motivations for taking a second wife, etc., and I forgive him – in part, at least. Bigamy is never a good thing – it’s completely against God’s perfect design for marriage. Still, I came to understand why he did it, so it made me a bit more sympathetic.
It was also hard to like him because he treated Penninah kinda unfairly. I mean, he just married her for children, and then made it clear to her through his actions that he didn’t really care for her.
So yeah, despite his sweetness to Hannah, I didn’t love Elkanah.
I was surprised to find myself sympathizing with Penninah. She was a truly terrible person, honestly; just a whiny little brat. But I get where she’s coming from, and I wanted her to have some sort of happy ending. (Though if she died young, I wouldn’t have minded that either! :P )
I hate Hophni and Phineas. Even more than I did based on reading the Biblical accounts. And their poor wives … <3 :(
SETTING: 5/5
Excellent! I really got sucked back into the thousands-of-years-ago setting. (Probably 3,000 years ago? I’d have to actually think about it.) Quite fascinating. The author really seems to know her stuff!
As, outside of the Bible, I haven’t done a ton of research, I wouldn’t know if it wasn’t accurate in any way. To me, it seemed perfect. Good job to the author!
WRITING: 4/5
The author’s style was enjoyable and understandable. Very flowing and melodic. I occasionally found it difficult to understand point-of-view switches, but other than that, well done.
CONTENT: 3/5
Language: n/a
Violence: mentions of wars, invading countries, etc. No graphic violence.
Sexual: mentions of sexual interactions between Elkanah and his wives (ugh, writing wives in relation to one man gives me the shivers!), but no details were given. Somewhat detailed descriptions of birth that may make some uncomfortable. The priests are evil and take advantage of young girls, oftentimes leaving them pregnant. Their illegitimate children run around the temple. Treated as very wrong.
Other: mentions of burnt offerings, sacrifices, animals being slaughtered for those sacrifices, etc. Blood and animal-sacrificing/killing, few details. Both Hannah and Penninah contemplate suicide at times. Penninah comes pretty close.
More adult content than bad content. I’d say 14+ for sexual mentions as well as the priest’s evilness being disturbed. If you’re disturbed by childbirth (which is not something I understand, but …), then use discretion.
OVERALL: 4.5/5
A great story I’d recommend to any lovers of Biblical fiction! This has always been a favorite story with me, so it was a great treat for me, and I’d definitely reread it someday.
~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews
January 29, 2018
Do you like Biblical Fiction? If so, you will not be disappointed in this story. We all know that Hannah gave Samuel back to God, but this book shows us what Hannah's life might have been like. The story is very well written. The characters are very well developed. You feel like you could be Hannah's sister or neighbor.
The story flows well and doesn't drag at all. It also isn't so fast-paced you get lost or left behind. It starts with Hannah as a young teen and follows her story through her adult life. Even though this is fiction, it is a very believable account of how her life may have been. I was interested from the very beginning and was not disappointed at all.
It is not at all a preachy kind of book. It does show Hannah's faith and what that kind of faith can do for a person. It is a very uplifting story, although Hannah's life is definitely not a bed of roses.
I asked Baker Publishing for a chance to read and review this book and was given the book to review. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and any who like a good, historical Christian fiction book.
The story flows well and doesn't drag at all. It also isn't so fast-paced you get lost or left behind. It starts with Hannah as a young teen and follows her story through her adult life. Even though this is fiction, it is a very believable account of how her life may have been. I was interested from the very beginning and was not disappointed at all.
It is not at all a preachy kind of book. It does show Hannah's faith and what that kind of faith can do for a person. It is a very uplifting story, although Hannah's life is definitely not a bed of roses.
I asked Baker Publishing for a chance to read and review this book and was given the book to review. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and any who like a good, historical Christian fiction book.
January 19, 2018
A Passionate Hope: Hannah’s Story is a beautiful story of hope, faith, and inspiration. I love this fourth installment from the Daughters of the Promised Land series. To be honest, I was not sure about it at first. Then suddenly, I was hooked and loving Hannah more and more. I felt connected to her. I could feel and understand her struggles. It was heartbreaking at times but she never gave up, which is admirable to see her strength.
A Passionate Hope: Hannah’s Story is my newest favorite by Jill Eileen Smith. Her work just keeps getting better and better.
I highly recommend this book and give it 5+ stars.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
A Passionate Hope: Hannah’s Story is my newest favorite by Jill Eileen Smith. Her work just keeps getting better and better.
I highly recommend this book and give it 5+ stars.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
January 31, 2018
When reviewing a Biblically-based novel, I find it useful to review what I know about the main character(s). I knew that Hannah was the mother of Samuel, who anointed both Saul and David. I knew she’d been barren for many years, and I knew that she made a vow to God that, if He gave her a child, she would surrender that child back to Him. She also had a vicious sister-wife!
A Passionate Hope had me rethink at least one of my presumptions. Peninnah is essentially the villainess of Hannah’s story, but Jill Eileen Smith made me feel sympathy for her. She was the second wife of a man she loved, and she gave him plenty of children, but Elkanah was never really able to give her what she wanted. In Smith’s account, Peninnah’s deceased father hadn’t been a great father or husband and her mother consistently gave her bad advice. As for Hannah, I can’t imagine what it must’ve felt like to know your husband was sleeping with another woman because she could give him sons when you couldn’t. And how much worse it must’ve been for the wives of the sons of Eli, the priests who couldn’t have cared less about carrying out their duties the way God instructed. Instead of focusing on the responsibilities they’d been given they reveled in the power that resulted from those responsibilities.
Don’t expect a detailed look of the duties of the Levites, the loss of the Ark of the Covenant in battle, or of Samuel as an adult. We get Elkanah’s perspective, but only as it pertains to Hannah and Peninnah. This is a book about the mother of a great Bible figure, in a series about pivotal female figures of the Old Testament. Look at it in that light and I’m sure you’ll agree that this is a fascinating look a woman who struggled to understand God but kept her faith in Him nevertheless.
Thank you to Revell and Jill Eileen Smith for my complimentary copy of A Passionate Hope, which I received for my honest review.
A Passionate Hope had me rethink at least one of my presumptions. Peninnah is essentially the villainess of Hannah’s story, but Jill Eileen Smith made me feel sympathy for her. She was the second wife of a man she loved, and she gave him plenty of children, but Elkanah was never really able to give her what she wanted. In Smith’s account, Peninnah’s deceased father hadn’t been a great father or husband and her mother consistently gave her bad advice. As for Hannah, I can’t imagine what it must’ve felt like to know your husband was sleeping with another woman because she could give him sons when you couldn’t. And how much worse it must’ve been for the wives of the sons of Eli, the priests who couldn’t have cared less about carrying out their duties the way God instructed. Instead of focusing on the responsibilities they’d been given they reveled in the power that resulted from those responsibilities.
Don’t expect a detailed look of the duties of the Levites, the loss of the Ark of the Covenant in battle, or of Samuel as an adult. We get Elkanah’s perspective, but only as it pertains to Hannah and Peninnah. This is a book about the mother of a great Bible figure, in a series about pivotal female figures of the Old Testament. Look at it in that light and I’m sure you’ll agree that this is a fascinating look a woman who struggled to understand God but kept her faith in Him nevertheless.
Thank you to Revell and Jill Eileen Smith for my complimentary copy of A Passionate Hope, which I received for my honest review.
January 31, 2018
Without a doubt, this is THE best book I've read in quite a long time. The story of Hannah and her desperation to bear a child, has long been a favorite of mine. I've often thought of the deep pain and despair she must have felt while having to endure the taunts and degredation by Peninniah. Jill Eileen Smith has brought those feelings to life in such a way as to touch my very soul. I was initially skeptical and leery of reading a fictional account based on a real life Bible character, but Mrs. Smith has quite obviously done her homework and describes the lifestyles in Hannah's days with accuracy and vividity. This story has come alive to me like I'd never imagined possible and has given me an even deeper respect for both Hannah and Elkanah. I highly, HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who has ever been touched by the story of Hannah and her great faith in Adonai.
January 28, 2018
The biblical Hannah, the woman who so longed for a child that she appeared drunk to the prophet Eli, had to be an amazing woman. She lived in a time where the priests were wicked and without discipline. Yet, for such longing to be a mother, she promised Yahweh that if He would bless her, she would return him to Him while he was yet a young child. Jill Eileen Smith weaves a story of the lives, times and blessings of our amazing Jehovah as seen through Hannah's eyes. I couldn't put it down!
The book was sent to me for my honest review by the publishers.
The book was sent to me for my honest review by the publishers.
January 27, 2018
This book was SO good! I related to Hannah on so many levels and couldn't help but feel myself in her shoes. The story COMPLETELY immersed me and I couldn't put it down once I'd begun!
With attention to detail and biblical accuracy, this is one of the very BEST fictionalizations of biblical events that I've ever read! And I'm pretty picky when it comes to this genre (I'm a stickler for biblical accuracy😉)
Ms. Smith did an OUTSTANDING job when she went about writing this novel. The author notes in the end that her "early attempts at this novel looked nothing like what ended up on these pages." And I can only say that I'm glad she waited it out then, because this book was AMAZING! Both impactful and insightful, as well as enjoyable and entertaining (I especially enjoyed the bit where she included the Bible passages of the events about to take place in the following chapters!)
This novel grabbed ahold of me at the prologue and never quite DID release me fully...even when I'd finished the epilogue and read through both the note to the reader and acknowledgements!
I'm eager (as all of you should be, too!) to see what new delicacies Ms. Smith has in store for us in the near future!
With attention to detail and biblical accuracy, this is one of the very BEST fictionalizations of biblical events that I've ever read! And I'm pretty picky when it comes to this genre (I'm a stickler for biblical accuracy😉)
Ms. Smith did an OUTSTANDING job when she went about writing this novel. The author notes in the end that her "early attempts at this novel looked nothing like what ended up on these pages." And I can only say that I'm glad she waited it out then, because this book was AMAZING! Both impactful and insightful, as well as enjoyable and entertaining (I especially enjoyed the bit where she included the Bible passages of the events about to take place in the following chapters!)
This novel grabbed ahold of me at the prologue and never quite DID release me fully...even when I'd finished the epilogue and read through both the note to the reader and acknowledgements!
I'm eager (as all of you should be, too!) to see what new delicacies Ms. Smith has in store for us in the near future!
February 6, 2018
Excellent book!!! I love Jill’s writing! What a great story of trusting our God to do what only He can do. A story of believing in God during the most difficult losses and persecution.
Here are some of my favorite quotes:
“We must ask the Lord to give us a deliverer, one who can lead the people back to true worship of Adonai.”
“If only there was something she could do to fix her life. She nearly laughed at the foolish thought. What could one woman possibly do to save her family, let alone her nation?”
“What can I do? [Elkanah prayed]. He lifted his head to gaze upon the coming dawn. Trust me. [replied Adonai]”
“He can be trusted to do the rest of what we entrust to Him.”
Here are some of my favorite quotes:
“We must ask the Lord to give us a deliverer, one who can lead the people back to true worship of Adonai.”
“If only there was something she could do to fix her life. She nearly laughed at the foolish thought. What could one woman possibly do to save her family, let alone her nation?”
“What can I do? [Elkanah prayed]. He lifted his head to gaze upon the coming dawn. Trust me. [replied Adonai]”
“He can be trusted to do the rest of what we entrust to Him.”
January 31, 2018
Jill Eileen Smith is one of my favorite authors. God has graced her with the gift of being able to take a character from the Bible and bring her to life in such a way that her story is still relevant today.
A Passionate Hope is no different. The main character in A Passionate Hope is Hannah. As a young girl, Hannah dreams of the day when she will marry and give birth to a houseful of children, as so many young girls do. Hannah is passionate about her love for the Lord and her dreams of being a wife and a mother. A certain young man falls in love with her passion and before she knows it, Hannah’s betrothed and on her way to making her dreams a reality.
When a year passes and Hannah still hasn’t become pregnant, she reflects on the stories of Sarah and Rachel in the Bible and doesn’t lose hope. Five years later, she does the same thing. But how much hope can she hold onto
after twenty years have passed and still her womb remains barren?
Hannah’s story will appeal to so many women today who are patiently waiting to give birth. Her hope derived from her passionate love and belief that God sees her and has a perfect plan for her life is sure to inspire hope in even the most cynical reader.
A Passionate Hope is no different. The main character in A Passionate Hope is Hannah. As a young girl, Hannah dreams of the day when she will marry and give birth to a houseful of children, as so many young girls do. Hannah is passionate about her love for the Lord and her dreams of being a wife and a mother. A certain young man falls in love with her passion and before she knows it, Hannah’s betrothed and on her way to making her dreams a reality.
When a year passes and Hannah still hasn’t become pregnant, she reflects on the stories of Sarah and Rachel in the Bible and doesn’t lose hope. Five years later, she does the same thing. But how much hope can she hold onto
after twenty years have passed and still her womb remains barren?
Hannah’s story will appeal to so many women today who are patiently waiting to give birth. Her hope derived from her passionate love and belief that God sees her and has a perfect plan for her life is sure to inspire hope in even the most cynical reader.
February 22, 2018
Previously published on Purely by Faith Reviews.
Recommended Age: 16+, because of hints at sexual interaction between Elkanah and Hannah (or Peninnah) and moments of feeling suicidal.
My Review:
I've only read a handful of biblical fiction, and when I first saw this book's cover, I just knew I had to read it. This was my first time reading a book by Jill Eileen Smith, and I left it with a great experience. I totally want to read some more books by her.
So I remember reading 1 Samuel a few times in the past, but it took me a while to connect everything in this story to the real thing and made some wrong assumptions about what was going to happen a few times because that's the imaginative part of me. The writing was wonderfully done, and although I knew what was going to happen, the way the author wrote this story was simply divine.
The way the author had described Hannah was wonderful. Although she had her flaws at times, that really made me like her more. I can't imagine what it would be like to not be granted the ability to give birth to children for a long time and was amazed in general when I thought about how she put her trust in the Lord. It really must have been hard for her to allow her husband to marry Peninnah, and to have that rude woman spout awful remarks about how Hannah was barren. Again, it's just really amazing when I think about it. I really loved how the author included scripture, made the story somewhat preachy, and highlighted Hannah's faith in the Lord as well as her actions for Him.
Elkanah was another one I was fond of. The Bible doesn't reveal much about how he felt about marrying Peninnah, but I imagine it would be similar to the way it was described in this story. I don't even understand why he would marry someone like her, as the Bible does not go into detail about this. At least he had Hannah, but still.
Although I really didn't dislike anything in this book, I chose to rate it four stars because it was not my top favorite book and not something I could really rave about. I still liked it, of course, but it wasn't the best thing I've read. It was really hard for me to review this book, when remembering that this is just an idea of what could have happened to Hannah.
If you are fond of biblical fiction, then you will want to pick up this book! I would totally take a look at Hannah's story in the Bible (1 Samuel).
Content Warnings: mentions of sexual interaction between Elkanah and his wives, moments of characters feeling suicidal, women giving birth to children somewhat descriptive enough to bother some, romance.
I received this book from Revell through Interviews and Reviews in exchange for an honest review. I was not obligated to provide a positive one. This review was written in my own words and opinions.
Recommended Age: 16+, because of hints at sexual interaction between Elkanah and Hannah (or Peninnah) and moments of feeling suicidal.
My Review:
I've only read a handful of biblical fiction, and when I first saw this book's cover, I just knew I had to read it. This was my first time reading a book by Jill Eileen Smith, and I left it with a great experience. I totally want to read some more books by her.
So I remember reading 1 Samuel a few times in the past, but it took me a while to connect everything in this story to the real thing and made some wrong assumptions about what was going to happen a few times because that's the imaginative part of me. The writing was wonderfully done, and although I knew what was going to happen, the way the author wrote this story was simply divine.
The way the author had described Hannah was wonderful. Although she had her flaws at times, that really made me like her more. I can't imagine what it would be like to not be granted the ability to give birth to children for a long time and was amazed in general when I thought about how she put her trust in the Lord. It really must have been hard for her to allow her husband to marry Peninnah, and to have that rude woman spout awful remarks about how Hannah was barren. Again, it's just really amazing when I think about it. I really loved how the author included scripture, made the story somewhat preachy, and highlighted Hannah's faith in the Lord as well as her actions for Him.
Elkanah was another one I was fond of. The Bible doesn't reveal much about how he felt about marrying Peninnah, but I imagine it would be similar to the way it was described in this story. I don't even understand why he would marry someone like her, as the Bible does not go into detail about this. At least he had Hannah, but still.
Although I really didn't dislike anything in this book, I chose to rate it four stars because it was not my top favorite book and not something I could really rave about. I still liked it, of course, but it wasn't the best thing I've read. It was really hard for me to review this book, when remembering that this is just an idea of what could have happened to Hannah.
If you are fond of biblical fiction, then you will want to pick up this book! I would totally take a look at Hannah's story in the Bible (1 Samuel).
Content Warnings: mentions of sexual interaction between Elkanah and his wives, moments of characters feeling suicidal, women giving birth to children somewhat descriptive enough to bother some, romance.
I received this book from Revell through Interviews and Reviews in exchange for an honest review. I was not obligated to provide a positive one. This review was written in my own words and opinions.
February 10, 2018
Historical fiction is not the genre I normally read, but there was just something about this book that got my attention and it truly is a special journey of faith, heartbreak, and healing! I'm always fascinated by Biblical fiction and this was my first time reading Smith's work, I was engrossed from the start.
Hyam looked at him for a lengthy breath and smiled wide. "You have my permission, on one condition." Elkanah met his gaze, a sudden kick in his heart. "What condition?"
"You can never divorce her. Even if she proves to be barren, you can never divorce her or send her back to me or her mother." His intense gaze never left Elkanah's face.
Elkanah felt the heat of embarrassment sweep through him.
"I have no reason to ever desire such a thing. I will gladly put my seal on such a promise."
Why would Hannah's dad even suggest barrenness? I guess in those days, it was a possibility that couldn't be overlooked, but still this quote seems to be a powerful moment in the story.
I truly loved Hannah and her faith, she understands the heart of God better than her parents do.
I couldn't stand Penniah, but I also felt sorry for her. She is cruel and jealous, but she really doesn't understand how to be a good person, it was something never taught to her.
There are three parts to the story, but I was satisfied that it's so easy to read and the chapters are short. Smith TRULY captures the essence of what it felt like to be a woman during this time, the agony Hannah goes through not being able to conceive and despite the heartache of giving away her first born to the church, how the joy and peace of God fills her after the deed is done. There is so much sadness in this story yet it is also rich with the ways of God and the hope of trusting Him when you desperately want a prayer to be answered.
"What else can I do? A sense of uncompromising trust filled him."
This is Hannah's journey, so well written, and shows that her husband truly did love her but how their life was still filled with struggles and realistic circumstances at the time. Yet despite all they go through, their faith in God never wavers and their reactions are tangible. Hannah is married to Elkanah for 18 years before they start to see their prayers answered, that really is amazing patience. I enjoyed this story so much, I loved being there with Hannah, truly inspiring and heartfelt!
I received a free ebook from the publisher via NetGalley, I voluntarily reviewed this. The comments and opinions are my own.
Hyam looked at him for a lengthy breath and smiled wide. "You have my permission, on one condition." Elkanah met his gaze, a sudden kick in his heart. "What condition?"
"You can never divorce her. Even if she proves to be barren, you can never divorce her or send her back to me or her mother." His intense gaze never left Elkanah's face.
Elkanah felt the heat of embarrassment sweep through him.
"I have no reason to ever desire such a thing. I will gladly put my seal on such a promise."
Why would Hannah's dad even suggest barrenness? I guess in those days, it was a possibility that couldn't be overlooked, but still this quote seems to be a powerful moment in the story.
I truly loved Hannah and her faith, she understands the heart of God better than her parents do.
I couldn't stand Penniah, but I also felt sorry for her. She is cruel and jealous, but she really doesn't understand how to be a good person, it was something never taught to her.
There are three parts to the story, but I was satisfied that it's so easy to read and the chapters are short. Smith TRULY captures the essence of what it felt like to be a woman during this time, the agony Hannah goes through not being able to conceive and despite the heartache of giving away her first born to the church, how the joy and peace of God fills her after the deed is done. There is so much sadness in this story yet it is also rich with the ways of God and the hope of trusting Him when you desperately want a prayer to be answered.
"What else can I do? A sense of uncompromising trust filled him."
This is Hannah's journey, so well written, and shows that her husband truly did love her but how their life was still filled with struggles and realistic circumstances at the time. Yet despite all they go through, their faith in God never wavers and their reactions are tangible. Hannah is married to Elkanah for 18 years before they start to see their prayers answered, that really is amazing patience. I enjoyed this story so much, I loved being there with Hannah, truly inspiring and heartfelt!
I received a free ebook from the publisher via NetGalley, I voluntarily reviewed this. The comments and opinions are my own.
April 9, 2018
With a deft hand, Jill Eileen Smith brings the story of Hannah to life in a new way in her latest novel, "A Passionate Hope". I was utterly moved as I became reacquainted with this Biblical character as Smith effortlessly draws readers into Hannah's world. Hannah's story will evoke deep emotion from her readers as Smith captures not only her angst at being unable to have children, but her deep grief over the taunting cruelty of her husband Elakanah's second wife, Peninnah. It is easy to read a Bible story and only get a surface understanding of what someone in the Bible experienced. But Smith has done a great job at making Hannah a real living and breathing person who readers will come to truly empathize with and appreciate all the more. Each of the characters have been well crafted and, though of course Smith had to take some poetic license in fleshing out these people who grace the pages of the Old Testament, she has remained faithful to the Biblical text in doing so.
The novel poses an intriguing question that was on my mind as I read the story, asking "Can one woman's prayers change the world?" I haven't really considered what would have happened if Hannah hadn't been barren, if she hadn't cried a desperate prayer to God that resulted in the gift of Samuel and the incredible role he played in establishing the kingdom of Israel. I am so grateful for this novel in giving me new eyes to consider the account of Hannah, one I've read many times without the same level of appreciation I now hold for the story.
Smith continues to create Biblical-based fiction that is not only entertaining but is so God-honouring at the same time, gifting her audience with a new appreciation of God's hand in history. I greatly enjoyed this book and award it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
The novel poses an intriguing question that was on my mind as I read the story, asking "Can one woman's prayers change the world?" I haven't really considered what would have happened if Hannah hadn't been barren, if she hadn't cried a desperate prayer to God that resulted in the gift of Samuel and the incredible role he played in establishing the kingdom of Israel. I am so grateful for this novel in giving me new eyes to consider the account of Hannah, one I've read many times without the same level of appreciation I now hold for the story.
Smith continues to create Biblical-based fiction that is not only entertaining but is so God-honouring at the same time, gifting her audience with a new appreciation of God's hand in history. I greatly enjoyed this book and award it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
March 16, 2018
A Passionate Hope was the perfect ending to Jill Eileen Smith’s Daughters of the Promised Land series. A story of hope, faith, love, and trust in God. Jill Eileen Smith did an excellent job in bringing this story to life as she does in every book. I highly recommend A Passionate Hope and the rest of the books in this series.
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January 22, 2018Jill Eileen Smith gives such a vivid picture of Hannah and her struggles. She brings to life women of the Old Testament with her extensive research and imaginative writing skills! I highly recommend this book to everyone who wants a clearer picture of the life that Hannah lived!
February 5, 2018
Although I have read the story of Hannah from 1 Samuel numerous times, I have never read a fictionalized account of her life. Hers is a story worth telling, and I am so glad that Jill Eileen Smith has included it in her Daughters of The Promised Land series. A Passionate Hope is an outstanding novel and probably my favorite so far by Smith. Both Hannah’s personal story and the culture that she lived in comes alive in this sometimes sad, sometimes poignant, and ultimately victorious retelling of the Biblical narrative. If you are a fan of Biblical fiction, this book is a must-read.
Hannah is very much a woman of her time — dutiful to family and God, her greatest desire is to be the mother of sons to her husband Elkanah. But tragically, her prayers go unanswered year after year. In a culture where children are an important inheritance from the Lord, Hannah’s empty arms mean scorn, derision, pity, and despair. Hannah’s barrenness is seen as a failure on her part, and her husband has every right to take another wife to bear him a child. When Elkanah does just that, God’s plan for marriage is overturned for what man reasons to be the the correct course.
I loved the character of Hannah as portrayed by Smith. She remains strong in her faith in God, despite the unfair treatment by her husband’s family and his second wife, Penninah. But her faith reflects those of us all — doubt and sorrow often creep in. Her question to God — Do You see me? — resonated with my heart. But Hannah remains firm in her trust in God, even when Elkanah is persuaded by others to help God along by marrying someone to bear him children. I couldn’t help but like Elkanah, but he is a flawed character. In the Bible, as well as in the novel, he asks Hannah why he isn’t enough for her. But he never believes Hannah can be enough. That’s the overpowering pull of cultural expectations. In our modern world we can see how wrong his reasoning is, but aren’t there things that we place higher than important relationships (including our relationship with God)? Penninah is a disagreeable character in the Bible, and in A Passionate Hope she isn’t any better. As portrayed in the novel, Penninah is very human in her desire for love and her jealous and bitter behavior towards Hannah. No, I didn’t like Penninah, but I could see why she became the way she was. The corruption of the priesthood during this time in Israel’s history as depicted by Smith showed the importance of Samuel’s birth and made me want to reach for my Bible to see just what was going on. The best of Biblical fiction does that, and A Passionate Hope is one of the best.
A Passionate Hope is well-written and well-researched. Its pages will help you see the Bible with fresh eyes and will urge you to read for yourself God’s word.
Highly Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(Thanks to Revell for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
Hannah is very much a woman of her time — dutiful to family and God, her greatest desire is to be the mother of sons to her husband Elkanah. But tragically, her prayers go unanswered year after year. In a culture where children are an important inheritance from the Lord, Hannah’s empty arms mean scorn, derision, pity, and despair. Hannah’s barrenness is seen as a failure on her part, and her husband has every right to take another wife to bear him a child. When Elkanah does just that, God’s plan for marriage is overturned for what man reasons to be the the correct course.
I loved the character of Hannah as portrayed by Smith. She remains strong in her faith in God, despite the unfair treatment by her husband’s family and his second wife, Penninah. But her faith reflects those of us all — doubt and sorrow often creep in. Her question to God — Do You see me? — resonated with my heart. But Hannah remains firm in her trust in God, even when Elkanah is persuaded by others to help God along by marrying someone to bear him children. I couldn’t help but like Elkanah, but he is a flawed character. In the Bible, as well as in the novel, he asks Hannah why he isn’t enough for her. But he never believes Hannah can be enough. That’s the overpowering pull of cultural expectations. In our modern world we can see how wrong his reasoning is, but aren’t there things that we place higher than important relationships (including our relationship with God)? Penninah is a disagreeable character in the Bible, and in A Passionate Hope she isn’t any better. As portrayed in the novel, Penninah is very human in her desire for love and her jealous and bitter behavior towards Hannah. No, I didn’t like Penninah, but I could see why she became the way she was. The corruption of the priesthood during this time in Israel’s history as depicted by Smith showed the importance of Samuel’s birth and made me want to reach for my Bible to see just what was going on. The best of Biblical fiction does that, and A Passionate Hope is one of the best.
A Passionate Hope is well-written and well-researched. Its pages will help you see the Bible with fresh eyes and will urge you to read for yourself God’s word.
Highly Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(Thanks to Revell for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
February 4, 2018
I love biblical fiction stories. A Passionate Hope, by Jill Eileen Smith, tells the story of the biblical woman, Hannah. It is the fourth Daughter’s of the Promised Land book series, and is a great stand-alone book. Though little is mentioned about her in the Bible, this story is created in such a way that it gives us a taste of what it was like for her during her life. The customs, the living conditions, dangers, and more, are highly researched and make the story come alive. The mix of history and fiction not only entertains, but also teaches us so much of the time of the Judges. I feel I’ve learned so much.
There is limited Biblical information on Hannah. We know that she was barren and yearned for children. In A Passionate Hope, Hannah’s story is fleshed out, instilling emotions, hardships, and fears, as well as faith, redemption, and patience.
I learned so much about the lifestyles and customs of the characters.
Hannah: I adore her and the way she chose to live her life—in reverence to God and His ways. We would all do well to have her faith, strength, and perseverance.
Elkanah: He loves Hannah so much—but I have to say, he frustrated me at times. I wanted him to be stronger, more assertive, but he was annoyingly passive at times. He is a good man, but felt rather weak.
Peninnah: She is the perfect antagonist! She made me so angry (which is a good thing—creating tension and kept me turning pages.) I had sympathy for her, yet I wanted to make her go away as well. I love a character that creates strong feelings in me!
The secondary characters are memorable as well, and add so much to the story.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Biblical Fiction. This is a deeply emotional and memorable book.
Cover: Love
Title: Love
Pages: 368
Publisher: Revell
First Line (Prologue): Hannah walked with her father and brothers and fellow Kohathites from Ramathaim-zophim in the hills of Ephraim, nearly skipping for joy at the chance to accompany them Shiloh during their week of work.
I was blessed to receive a complimentary copy of this book.
There is limited Biblical information on Hannah. We know that she was barren and yearned for children. In A Passionate Hope, Hannah’s story is fleshed out, instilling emotions, hardships, and fears, as well as faith, redemption, and patience.
I learned so much about the lifestyles and customs of the characters.
Hannah: I adore her and the way she chose to live her life—in reverence to God and His ways. We would all do well to have her faith, strength, and perseverance.
Elkanah: He loves Hannah so much—but I have to say, he frustrated me at times. I wanted him to be stronger, more assertive, but he was annoyingly passive at times. He is a good man, but felt rather weak.
Peninnah: She is the perfect antagonist! She made me so angry (which is a good thing—creating tension and kept me turning pages.) I had sympathy for her, yet I wanted to make her go away as well. I love a character that creates strong feelings in me!
The secondary characters are memorable as well, and add so much to the story.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Biblical Fiction. This is a deeply emotional and memorable book.
Cover: Love
Title: Love
Pages: 368
Publisher: Revell
First Line (Prologue): Hannah walked with her father and brothers and fellow Kohathites from Ramathaim-zophim in the hills of Ephraim, nearly skipping for joy at the chance to accompany them Shiloh during their week of work.
I was blessed to receive a complimentary copy of this book.
March 3, 2018
Book 4 of Smith’s Daughters of the Promised Land series centers around Hannah (First Samuel, Old Testament). In 1141 BCE, her community struggles as the leading priests of the tabernacle in Shiloh become more and more corrupt, ruining the people’s sacrifices and defiling young women who serve the temple. But Hannah has a lot to look forward to. Soon, she is wed to Elkanah. They enjoy many happy, loving years as husband and wife. Sadly, however, Hannah never conceives an heir for her husband. Under pressure from his family, Elkanah eventually agrees to take a second wife, Peninnah, who bears a son in the first year of marriage. Yet Peninnah is unhappy that Elkanah does not love and honor her more and takes this frustration out on Hannah. As Peninnah continues to bear children, Hannah questions if God hears her pleas for a child. At the same time, Elkanah wonders whether God will save their nation from the corruption in Shiloh.
While steeped in well-researched biblical details, what disappointed me about the book was the lack of character growth. Hannah’s faith is always strong. She questions her inability to have children, but she never struggles following God’s word. About midway through, chapters alternate between Hannah lamenting and Peninnah complaining. The story does a lot of telling readers how characters feel and react to their world, but there isn’t much showing/experiencing. Thus, the pace slows considerably, and I found it hard to connect with either character as they quickly fell into monotony. I can tell Smith loves this time period, and she describes the setting and social customs with ease. Typically, I devour books centering on women of ancient history, but the characters of this one just didn’t draw me in.
Review originally posted at the Historical Novel Society at https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re....
While steeped in well-researched biblical details, what disappointed me about the book was the lack of character growth. Hannah’s faith is always strong. She questions her inability to have children, but she never struggles following God’s word. About midway through, chapters alternate between Hannah lamenting and Peninnah complaining. The story does a lot of telling readers how characters feel and react to their world, but there isn’t much showing/experiencing. Thus, the pace slows considerably, and I found it hard to connect with either character as they quickly fell into monotony. I can tell Smith loves this time period, and she describes the setting and social customs with ease. Typically, I devour books centering on women of ancient history, but the characters of this one just didn’t draw me in.
Review originally posted at the Historical Novel Society at https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re....
March 24, 2018
I believe this book is my favorite of Jill Eileen's novels, and that is saying something. Hannah's story is intensely emotional, drawing the reader into the corrupt world of ancient Israel in a time between judges. I could experience the world of that day through the author's vivid descriptions, and I have a much greater understanding of what it was like.
Mostly I identified deeply with Hannah and her spiritual and emotional struggles. How painful to be barren in a time when fertility was a woman's entire purpose! How horrible to see your in-laws pressure your husband to take another wife, then live with a jealous, bitter rival for his time and attention!
Yet I also sympathized with and loved Elkanah, caught between desire and duty. And when Samuel was finally born, how I admired these parents who demonstrated their love for this son by honoring their sacred vow to God!
This is a beautiful book, written from the author's heart. I highly recommend it.
Mostly I identified deeply with Hannah and her spiritual and emotional struggles. How painful to be barren in a time when fertility was a woman's entire purpose! How horrible to see your in-laws pressure your husband to take another wife, then live with a jealous, bitter rival for his time and attention!
Yet I also sympathized with and loved Elkanah, caught between desire and duty. And when Samuel was finally born, how I admired these parents who demonstrated their love for this son by honoring their sacred vow to God!
This is a beautiful book, written from the author's heart. I highly recommend it.
March 9, 2018
I have always wanted to read a story about Hannah. Her story has always intrigued me, and I wish the Bible went into more detail about her. But since it doesn't, I'm thankful for other's imagination!
This story was chock full of hope & trust! (The title is perfect)
Hannah and Elkanah kept prayer filled hearts, but they also went through moments of question and despair.
Though the idea of this story was great, it fell WAY short for me.
All of the characters were so whinny!! That is one of my biggest pet peeves. I would have been able to overlook it if it has just been one character, but it was a running theme through the entire story!
Peninnah was probably my least favorite character from beginning to end. She was so hateful & self-centered. And oh yeah...whinny. I was so thankful to see a bit of a turn around at the complete end of the story.
My favorite character was a toss up between Samuel and Raziela. I would love to see a book from either one of their perspectives.
The author wove a beautiful hopeful story out of a rather hopeless situation. Her style was almost poetic & flowed beautifully.
This story wasn't my favorite I'm not going to lie, but I know many who loved this story or will love this story. Overall I rated this a 3.5/5 stars.
*I received this book in exchange for my honest review* *All reviews are my own*
This story was chock full of hope & trust! (The title is perfect)
Hannah and Elkanah kept prayer filled hearts, but they also went through moments of question and despair.
Though the idea of this story was great, it fell WAY short for me.
All of the characters were so whinny!! That is one of my biggest pet peeves. I would have been able to overlook it if it has just been one character, but it was a running theme through the entire story!
Peninnah was probably my least favorite character from beginning to end. She was so hateful & self-centered. And oh yeah...whinny. I was so thankful to see a bit of a turn around at the complete end of the story.
My favorite character was a toss up between Samuel and Raziela. I would love to see a book from either one of their perspectives.
The author wove a beautiful hopeful story out of a rather hopeless situation. Her style was almost poetic & flowed beautifully.
This story wasn't my favorite I'm not going to lie, but I know many who loved this story or will love this story. Overall I rated this a 3.5/5 stars.
*I received this book in exchange for my honest review* *All reviews are my own*
February 5, 2018
Elkanah has waited for some years for the girl he fell in love with to grow up, and finally they marry, against the wishes of some members of his family, especially his mother. Each is deeply in love with the other, and they learn to deal with the difficulties cast in their way by his mother, but trouble arises when Hannah bears no children. The pressure to marry a second wife increases, with the suggested bride being the daughter of his mother's best friend. Still in love with Hannah, Elkanah finally agrees to take a second wife, Peninnah, to bear him children. She does so, and life becomes even harder for Hannah, as the loved but barren wife. The tale of their lives together, and her vow of desperation, make a compelling story, set as it is against the background of a corrupt priesthood.
The story forms a memorable read both for those who consider it as Biblical fiction, a Bible story fleshed out with fiction to bring it to life, and for any who don't care about the Bible story and merely want an enjoyable piece of historical fiction. I didn't come across anything that struck me as being biblically or historically incorrect, and was enthralled by the way that the story I've known all my life was brought to life through fiction. Good lessons were brought out of the story too, but not in a preachy way.
Overall, a good book, with a good plot, realistic characters and a good message. The historical background is woven in carefully along the way without ever feeling like a history lesson, and the reader is able to feel like they are 'there'. It isn't what I would call a light read, but one to come back to and think about. Having said that, though, the writing was such as to keep me enthralled on a plane, when concentration can be difficult! So, this book is one that I would highly recommend, and it's an author I'll be looking out for more of.
Plot: good
Content: clean
Language/writing style: good writing, with no bad language
Characters: felt realistic
Overall rating: 5 stars
Note that I received a free copy of the book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
The story forms a memorable read both for those who consider it as Biblical fiction, a Bible story fleshed out with fiction to bring it to life, and for any who don't care about the Bible story and merely want an enjoyable piece of historical fiction. I didn't come across anything that struck me as being biblically or historically incorrect, and was enthralled by the way that the story I've known all my life was brought to life through fiction. Good lessons were brought out of the story too, but not in a preachy way.
Overall, a good book, with a good plot, realistic characters and a good message. The historical background is woven in carefully along the way without ever feeling like a history lesson, and the reader is able to feel like they are 'there'. It isn't what I would call a light read, but one to come back to and think about. Having said that, though, the writing was such as to keep me enthralled on a plane, when concentration can be difficult! So, this book is one that I would highly recommend, and it's an author I'll be looking out for more of.
Plot: good
Content: clean
Language/writing style: good writing, with no bad language
Characters: felt realistic
Overall rating: 5 stars
Note that I received a free copy of the book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
March 5, 2018
What a heart wrenching story this one was. I know the story of Hannah and of Samuel from the Bible and have read it many times. I actually went back to read it again while this fictional account was fresh in my mind and it really gave me a new perspective on how Hannah was truly suffering.
This story is mostly told from Hannah’s and Elkanah’s, her husband’s point of views and later on we get Peninnah’s, the second wife’s viewpoint. Hannah by all accounts was barren and after many years was unable to provide children, more importantly sons to her husband. Faced with pressure from his controlling mother and father, Elkanah, who loved Hannah very much, is forced to consider taking a second, lesser wife. As you can imagine, that caused all kinds of hurt, sadness, jealousy, ridiculousness, etc. on all persons involved.
Hannah had no children, but had all of her husband’s love versus Peninnah, who had all the children and none of her husband’s devotion. Wow. So when the time comes for Hannah to pray her prayer for Samuel, the agonizing vow she makes to God, we as a reader are already heart sore for her.
Author Smith really brought this novel to life and it was a hard read for me. That was a different time and culture, but all the same- people are people, and women are women. We also are shown just how evil Eli’s, the priest, two sons were. The terrible trouble and judgement they were bringing not only on themselves but on the people of Israel.
This book left me with a lesson learned on patience. So many times we jump in and try to make things happen on our own time, yet God always has us wait for a reason. As I look at the character of Samuel, he came at the right time for a great purpose when Israel needed him the most. Hannah and Elkanah just needed a little bit more patience in their waiting. This is my favorite by author Smith.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
This story is mostly told from Hannah’s and Elkanah’s, her husband’s point of views and later on we get Peninnah’s, the second wife’s viewpoint. Hannah by all accounts was barren and after many years was unable to provide children, more importantly sons to her husband. Faced with pressure from his controlling mother and father, Elkanah, who loved Hannah very much, is forced to consider taking a second, lesser wife. As you can imagine, that caused all kinds of hurt, sadness, jealousy, ridiculousness, etc. on all persons involved.
Hannah had no children, but had all of her husband’s love versus Peninnah, who had all the children and none of her husband’s devotion. Wow. So when the time comes for Hannah to pray her prayer for Samuel, the agonizing vow she makes to God, we as a reader are already heart sore for her.
Author Smith really brought this novel to life and it was a hard read for me. That was a different time and culture, but all the same- people are people, and women are women. We also are shown just how evil Eli’s, the priest, two sons were. The terrible trouble and judgement they were bringing not only on themselves but on the people of Israel.
This book left me with a lesson learned on patience. So many times we jump in and try to make things happen on our own time, yet God always has us wait for a reason. As I look at the character of Samuel, he came at the right time for a great purpose when Israel needed him the most. Hannah and Elkanah just needed a little bit more patience in their waiting. This is my favorite by author Smith.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
August 15, 2024
I very much enjoyed this! Michal was my first JES book and I wasn't a HUGE fan of it. My theory was that I just wasn't into Michal's character that much. But I LOVE the story of Hannah in the Bible and I definitely loved this story.
I appreciated the hope in the story. Seeing the story play out, it definitely made me reflect on things. I usually enjoy Biblical fiction and this certainly did not disappoint.
Really i think the only reason I'm not giving it a fifth star is because the relationship between Elkanah, Hannah, and Peninah was just weird 😆 Accurate, I'm sure. But still 😆
I listened to the entire thing on Audible (it's available free with membership). I was bummed the narrator didnt use accents and I THINK she might have mispronounced iima (based on what i know from The Chosen) the entire time but I appreciated her use of different voices and I liked her acting.
🚨 Spoilers ahead 🚨
Fave Chapter:
More of a moment really but I think I'd have to pick Hannah's prayer.
Fave Character:
Hannah
Her kindness and love for Adonai was SO admirable! But at no point did I question her human-ness.
Ship:
Elkanah x Hannah
I wanted to ship them but i just wasnt wild about Elkanah's character. i totally understand why JES chose the traits she did for him but i just didnt LOVE his character. and i know he loved Hannah more than Peninah, that was obvious, but the sister wives thing is so foreign to me. it's hard for me to hardcore ship Elkanah x Hannah when i know how often Elkanah visited Peninah 😆
I appreciated the hope in the story. Seeing the story play out, it definitely made me reflect on things. I usually enjoy Biblical fiction and this certainly did not disappoint.
Really i think the only reason I'm not giving it a fifth star is because the relationship between Elkanah, Hannah, and Peninah was just weird 😆 Accurate, I'm sure. But still 😆
I listened to the entire thing on Audible (it's available free with membership). I was bummed the narrator didnt use accents and I THINK she might have mispronounced iima (based on what i know from The Chosen) the entire time but I appreciated her use of different voices and I liked her acting.
🚨 Spoilers ahead 🚨
Fave Chapter:
More of a moment really but I think I'd have to pick Hannah's prayer.
Fave Character:
Hannah
Her kindness and love for Adonai was SO admirable! But at no point did I question her human-ness.
Ship:
Elkanah x Hannah
I wanted to ship them but i just wasnt wild about Elkanah's character. i totally understand why JES chose the traits she did for him but i just didnt LOVE his character. and i know he loved Hannah more than Peninah, that was obvious, but the sister wives thing is so foreign to me. it's hard for me to hardcore ship Elkanah x Hannah when i know how often Elkanah visited Peninah 😆
February 19, 2018
A PASSIONATE HOPE is the latest book by acclained, award-winning author Jill Eileen Smith and fans of biblical fiction will devour this latest offering which the story of Hannah, the mother of Samuel.
I am not a huge fan of biblical fiction, as it is just that, fiction, and as a reader I am not sure what is actually true and what is made up. Is Hannah's husband really the brother of her best friend? Was Hannah's sister-wife truly not a hateful person but only being that way to Hannah because her mother and mother-in-law told her to be? I don't know. There is a lot of speculation in here, I think, and also some truths because we do know the priests (Eli's sons) were corrupt. We also know Hannah gave her son to God, to the temple, to Eli to raise.
I'm sure Ms. Smith did her research and I am not doubting that. I am also sure that biblical fiction fans will love this story as (as far as I know) there aren't any other books out there about Hannah. The authors are delving out of the tried and true and into the known but not so common, and that is probably a good thing.
Ms. Smith is a stellar writer and the story is engaging. If you like biblical fiction read A PASSIONATE HOPE about Hannah and watch her as she grows from a young virgin to a first-wife watching her husband marry another woman to a mother giving up her child to God --
Hannah is definitely a woman of courage, of strength, and of honor.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
I am not a huge fan of biblical fiction, as it is just that, fiction, and as a reader I am not sure what is actually true and what is made up. Is Hannah's husband really the brother of her best friend? Was Hannah's sister-wife truly not a hateful person but only being that way to Hannah because her mother and mother-in-law told her to be? I don't know. There is a lot of speculation in here, I think, and also some truths because we do know the priests (Eli's sons) were corrupt. We also know Hannah gave her son to God, to the temple, to Eli to raise.
I'm sure Ms. Smith did her research and I am not doubting that. I am also sure that biblical fiction fans will love this story as (as far as I know) there aren't any other books out there about Hannah. The authors are delving out of the tried and true and into the known but not so common, and that is probably a good thing.
Ms. Smith is a stellar writer and the story is engaging. If you like biblical fiction read A PASSIONATE HOPE about Hannah and watch her as she grows from a young virgin to a first-wife watching her husband marry another woman to a mother giving up her child to God --
Hannah is definitely a woman of courage, of strength, and of honor.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
February 3, 2018
In-depth research and a gift for story-telling are characteristics of Author Jill Eileen Smith. She enables the reader to better understand the traditions and difficult daily life of people during Biblical times. A Passionate Hope is the story of Hannah who displays incredible faith and obedience as well as courage when faced with trying circumstances and the disgrace of being childless. Hannah and husband Elkanah’s endearing love story becomes a challenge for Hannah when Elkanah takes a second wife. My favorite quote from the book is an example of the faithfulness Hannah exhibited when she said to Elkanah, “none of us deserve blessing, but I am so glad God gives it anyway.” You will be inspired. Each book in The Daughters of the Promised Land series tells the story of a very resilient woman from the Old Testament. Do yourself a favor and add one or all these books to your to-be-read pile!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher/author for my honest opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher/author for my honest opinion.
April 3, 2018
What an amazing story depicting Hannah and Elkanah's passion for each other and the long struggle for a child and heir. I read about consequences of decisions, unforgiveness, jealousy, family attacks and divided affections. At the same time, the priests, sons of Eli, at the temple in Shilo, have become corrupt, greedy and disobedient to their father, Eli, and to God and His Law. God has a plan to return His priests and His people to Himself, which involves all of them. The wonderful thing about the author is how she brings historical facts together with the culture of the time, the expected gender roles, and God's Word. I enjoyed the emotion of the characters, especially Hannah; the family dynamics of reacting to a barren woman in a culture where the purpose of a woman is to bear children and that's primary. Like I say with all Jill's novels, there's just enough fiction and just enough fact to involve me in the story. Enjoy!
February 5, 2018
A Passionate Hope is a lovely Biblical fiction novel. I enjoyed reading this story about Hannah’s life and found this book to be well written with developed characters. Smith writes so that the story flows at a steady pace so that you are drawn in from the beginning and holds your attention until the end. A Passionate Hope is not a preachy kind of book. It does show Hannah’s faith and what strong faith can do to a person. I really enjoyed reading this lovely novel.
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