Ruth

Biblical Novels

by H.B. Moore

Master storyteller and best-selling author H. B. Moore brings to life the biblical account of Ruth as never before in this vivid retelling of her courageous and faithful life. Following the death of Ruth's husband, she finds herself at a crossroads. Rather than return to her family and hometown, the young widow makes a remarkable she will remain with her mother-in-law, Naomi, as her caretaker and companion. Together, the two widows boldly leave behind the lives they knew in the land of Moab and make their way to Bethlehem, arriving downtrodden and destitute. Though Ruth works day and night to provide for Naomi, it is ultimately through the kindness and generosity of Boaz that the two women find respite from their trials. As Ruth comes to know Boaz, she finds that her broken heart is beginning to heal in ways she could never have imagined. But when a question of inheritance threatens any hope of a life with Boaz, Ruth may have to give up the last piece of her heart in order to secure her future.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Romance, Religion, Historical, Lds Fiction, Christian Fiction

232 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2017

About the author

Heather B. Moore is a USA Today bestselling author of more than seventy publications. She writes historical novels and thrillers under pen name H.B. Moore. She writes women's fiction, romance and inspirational non-fiction under Heather B. Moore. This can all be confusing, so her kids just call her Mom. Heather attended Cairo American College in Egypt, the Anglican School of Jerusalem in Israel, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University in Utah. Heather is represented by Dystel, Goderich, and Bourret.

Please join Heather's email list at: HBMoore.com/contact

Blog: MyWritersLair.blogspot.com

Website: HBMoore.com

Twitter: @heatherbmoore

Instagram: @authorhbmoore

Facebook: Heather B. Moore All About Books

Literary awards: 2019 Maggie Award Winner, 6-time Best of State Recipient for Best in Literary Arts, 4-time Whitney Award Winner, and 2-time Golden Quill Award Winner

Alternate Goodreads Page: Heather B. Moore

Reviews

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again I was completely immersed in the setting and in the lives and emotions of the characters! I absolutely loved how the author brought the familiar Bible story to life with historical details that are shared with authenticity. We meet Ruth and Boaz just before each of their lives are about to change drastically and witness their grief and transition as they adjust. I loved Ruth's relationship with Naomi and the wisdom she learns from her. Ruth's loyalty and devotion to Naomi speaks of her character and does not go unnoticed by Boaz. Their relationship develops as Boaz protects Ruth and the various members of their families urge them each to remarry. The emphasis on faithfulness and virtue as desirable attributes in a wife and kindness and goodness as desirable attributes in a husband was refreshing and made me admire Boaz and Ruth for the choices they made. A wonderful Biblical novel that made me appreciate the sacrifices and lives of these historical individuals.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful. I think that is a perfect word to describe this telling of the story of Ruth from the Bible. I've always loved Ruth and Naomi. In my mind they have always been two people who knew what love and sacrifice was. They knew extreme loss and aching, hardships and trials. And yet they had such beautiful Faith, trust, hope and love in the Lord that they didn't give up when it could have been so easy to. Ruth's own Faith, turning from her family's beliefs and worships to embrace the God of her husband's family, while still living in the land of her forefathers could not have been easy.

This historical fictional story about Ruth and Naomi's loss and journey back to Naomi's people was very well written. Of course from the amount of verses in the Bible about their lives, we don't get all the little details so a lot of this story is that, a story and speculation. But I think that the way H.B. Moore shaped it and the details and emotions added in was truly beautifully done.

The book starts with Ruth and her husband and shows a glimpse into her life with him and his family. She's happy about her life, even with some of the ups and downs, and she loves her husband. Then the author jumps from Ruth's life to Boaz's in the next chapter. Throughout the book the chapters switched between Ruth and Boaz's point of view. I loved having their lives shown parallel and what was happening for each of them at the same time even though they were living in different locations and didn't know each other. Then when their lives crossed and they met watching their story unfold from both of their eyes. The sorrows brought to both of their lives affected them and shaped them. Yet, even before, during and after those trials, I loved their characters. The author portrayed these two as I have often thought their personalities and attitudes to have been from what we read in the Bible.

The storyline follows the storyline of Ruth in the Bible and (if you haven't read or know about Ruth, I'm writing my review as if you have, so there might be spoilers ahead) shortly after the book opens the loss of her husband and brother-in-law occurs. I loved seeing the relationship between Ruth, her mother-in-law Naomi and her sister-in-law Orpah. They loved each other, they worked side by side, they comforted each other. Then to have the emotions of losing the men in their lives and then Orpah going back to her family causing another feeling of loss. It was heartbreaking. Throughout the book we watched Ruth trying to heal and move on because she didn't really have any other option, but I liked how the author showed those moments of Ruth remembering her husband and the love she has for him.

Ruth promises Naomi she will go with her and stay with her. The way Ruth is portrayed and written shows her deep love and respect for Naomi as well as her conversion to Naomi's God and beliefs. Naomi's fears and sorrow and uncertainty for the future was shown and talked about that if Ruth hadn't come with her, she might not have survived. I loved the thoughts and possibilities of thoughts and emotions written into these characters' story.

I want to keep describing more and more of this story for you because of its beauty. But I feel as if I don't have words to describe it other than continuing to describe its beauty and how much it touched me while reading it. I loved it. I want to go back and reread it right now. I want to share it with everyone who loves the story of Ruth and Naomi. I know some people might not feel the same way about it that I do, and that's ok. I have so many images from the different scenes running through my head and causing me to smile. Not the permagrin, goofy, type of smile. But the smile when you see or feel something truly touching and beautiful. I love this author's ability to bring to life these historical figures and even though it's a lot of speculation of what might have happened, the thoughts and feelings that I have after reading the story, and a little better understanding of what might have been is thanks to her amazing talent. If you haven't read any of this author's Biblical retellings, I highly recommend them.

I skipped any talk about Boaz and Ruth earlier. I don't want to say too much but a thought. From the Bible we know that he was aware of her as a widow, a kin member, and that she was gleaning in his fields. But I loved in this story the perspective that they would have had some interactions together, to get to know each other a little. They were after all kin and Ruth and Naomi didn't have the protection of any male relative when they first arrived back in Naomi's land. The friendship developed and the sweet love story that the author portrays between these two was absolutely beautiful. I know I keep using the word beautiful but it's truly how I feel. Stunning might be another good descriptive word for this book and my feelings about it. Beautiful and lovely and stunning!

Content: Clean. Some moments of peril, death, a birth but nothing graphic.

I received a review copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Mara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Updated review 9/23/2019--I listened to the audiobook version narrated by the talented Nancy and Alan Peterson who are husband and wife. They're awesome.


Once I got into this book I didn't want to stop reading it. I knew the story of Ruth--her husband dies and she takes responsibility for her mother-in-law, Naomi. When they move to Bethlehem from Moab she goes to glean in Boaz's wheat fields with the other handmaidens so she and Naomi can survive. Boaz is one of Naomi's kinsmen.

Boaz's wife left him, their young daughter, and her religion to worship the Moabite god Baal. Boaz meets Ruth when she comes to glean in his fields, and he notices her goodness and how she takes care of Naomi.

I loved this story and how the author makes the characters come to life. She makes it easy to picture everything in my head as I read. Heather B. Moore is one of my favorite authors, but this is only the second historical fiction I've read by her. The other was [Eve: In the Beginning], and I really enjoyed that one too. I know she's written several others and has another one coming out that I plan to read.

[Deyanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

True confession. I chose this book because I love this Biblical story. The story of Ruth and Naomi epitomizes faith, sacrifice, dedication and love. Ironically, I think I came away from this quick read with a greater appreciation for Boaz. This author and I see the details of the story differently, but no matter. I appreciate creative license. Life was indeed challenging and difficult during this time period. I am not as familiar with the Jewish traditions and culture as I would like to be. I respect the challenges inherent with one changing one's religious belief and remaining true (thru great hardships) to the converted beliefs.

Nostalgically, I can still remember the feelings and thoughts I had as my grandmother verbally shared this story with me as I slept with her in an outdoor pergola. Often I requested this..."Please, Grandma, share the story again tonight of Ruth and Naomi." She was a great storyteller and perhaps it is her influence when I was young that fostered my love of story.

My spirit feels generous tonight...Just days before Thanksgiving this was a timely read as I reflect on my abundant blessings.

[Charissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This biblical story features Ruth and Boaz. Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi, lose everything in Moab. When Naomi decides to head back to the land of her roots, Bethlehem, Ruth goes with her since she has become converted to the one true God of the Hebrews. She is determined to look out for Naomi, who has been so kind to her. This author does an excellent job of casting great characters. I didn’t think I’d really get into Ruth’s story, because there isn’t a lot to it in the Bible, but Moore painted rich, deep characters and pulled into the ancient setting in a captivating way. Ruth is a kind, gentle soul. Boaz has led an interesting life. I loved getting an idea for my imagination to run with as the author described the threshing house and other tidbits about Bethlehem back in that day. The romantic tension was great in here too, and I felt my heart tugged back and forth as Boaz and Ruth both deal with their own demons they must overcome. Overall, this was an excellent read that I couldn’t put down. I read it in two days, which kind of shocked me. ***I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my fair and honest review.

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruth by author H.B. Moore is a beautiful and inspiring story that readers will enjoy. From page one Moore brings to life the story of her Naomi, Ruth and Boaz, off the page and into the minds and imagination of readers. The novel flips back and forth between the perspectives of Ruth and Boaz. Readers will relate to and have compassion for the struggles and pains, as well as the joys and romance of these characters and their families. This is a lovely well-researched and written inspirational biblical story that readers will absolutely not want to put down.

Genre: historical, romance, biblical, Christian, LDS
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: December 1, 2017
Number of pages: 250
​
A review copy of this book was provided by Covenant Communications. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruth is another beautiful book written by a talented author. I have always loved Ruth and Naomi's story from the scriptures, so I was looking forward to reading this book. As with every book from this author, the characters are well-developed and their struggles were heartfelt. Ruth was a wonderful character. The author does a great job of showing the reader what a compassionate person she was. I also loved Naomi. I enjoyed the POV switches from Ruth and Boaz. Both character's journeys were captivating and well written. The author took a story from the Bible and made it her own.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written story of Ruth and Naomi from the Bible. The author has made their lives come alive.

[Adrienne · Rating 5 out of 5]

When her husband dies, Ruth, who has converted to her husband's religion, decides to leave Moab and return to Bethlehem with her mother-in-law Naomi. She is determined to provide for herself and Naomi, and she's grateful when Boaz, a relative of Naomi's, allows her to glean his fields. She finds herself drawn to Boaz, even though she knows that a prosperous landowner can't be interested in an impoverished widow.
When Boaz's wife disappeared, he tracked her down, hoping against hope that she would want to return to him and their daughter. She doesn't--instead, she has rejected not only Boaz but also their faith. When Ruth and Naomi arrive in Bethlehem, Boaz can't help but notice Ruth's goodness.

I loved this book! Boaz and Ruth were both such engaging characters, as they're striving to do what's right even as they're hurting. I also enjoyed the details about what life in Bethlehem at the time would have been like. This was a captivating story!

I received a complimentary ARC; all opinions are my own.

[Rachelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off, this cover is extraordinary! I love the artwork and the feeling it gives about the story of Ruth. This tale is familiar to me from studying the Bible, but Moore pulls in wonderful details about the customs, cultures, and the land that help me understand on a deeper level how important the choices that Ruth made were to Naomi.

This was a quick read as I found myself intrigued to know how the ancient customs might interfere with Ruth's chance at love with Boaz. I truly appreciate Moore's skill in bringing this event from the past to the consciousness of the reader in a way that I felt like I was viewing the events. I highly recommend Ruth by H.B. Moore and ALL of the books she's written!

[Lydia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've always enjoyed Moore's interpretation of scriptural characters. Her depiction of Ruth was beautifully crafted, especially in adding human emotion and love to fill out the characters.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I became a fan of H.B. Moore’s several years ago when I received Abinadi as a Christmas present. I really liked how she brought that familiar scripture story to life, and I quickly read all the other stories of her’s that my library carried.

Ruth is a very nice addition H.B. Moore’s published scriptural stories. I have know the basics of Ruth’s story for as long as I can remember-after they lose everything, Ruth decides to accompany her mother-in-law wherever she will go.

It took me awhile to get into the story (and every time I read the name of Ruth’s cousin, I thought it said Oprah 😆), but eventually I was intrigued about what would happen to Naomi and Ruth, and what would happen with Boaz.

I’m curious to dive into the biblical story to compare it to Moore’s fictitious version, and I like that Moore’s writing makes me want to learn more and study.

3.5 stars

[Taffy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Opening line:
"My story is not an easy one to tell, but when I think of the lives of the women around me in Moab and Bethlehem, perhaps my life has not been so unusual."

I really enjoyed this fictional story of Ruth. Then again, I've enjoyed all of H.B. Moore's historical fiction stories! And I LOVE the cover!

[LAWonder10 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an authors inspiring interpretation of the biblical story of Ruth,

The research done in presenting this view of the story of Ruth is very apparent. It fits into the traditions and mannerisms we know of during that time period in history.

This is the touching tale of cultural differences, ofttimes. prejudices and corruption

It is a testament of faith.

Ruth was thrilled when at her cousin's marriage, she was introduced to her cousin's new, younger brother-in-law. They got along so well and his offer of marriage saved her from an arranged marriage she had no desire to be a part of. She was amiable to the idea of changing her religion to this new Hebrew one, as did her cousin.

This Hebrew family had been given permission to dwell in the land of Moab. However, after over a decade, rustlers destroyed it all with no help from neighbors or the authorities.

Destitute, Naomi was left no other choice but to go back to Bethlehem and seek for the charity from relatives. Ruth refused to stay in Moab and insisted on following her mother-in-law to her land, worshiping and trusting in her God.

This is written simply, yet, very touchingly It "flow" smoothly forward, never losing the reader's attention.

This earns a Five Stars rating.
*This book was gifted me wit no petition for a positive review. This is my honest review.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always loved the story of Ruth in the Bible, it's one of my very favorites! I loved the way the author wrote this book, it helped me be able to see the story from the Bible even more in my mind than I usually do. I loved the way this book was a quick and easy book for me to read!

I loved Ruth. I really loved the way the book starts with her married to Mahlon. You really get to see inside how life would have been for Ruth and Naomi living in Moab. It gave me a greater understanding and appreciation for the story in the Bible and how things would have been. I loved how Ruth was so loyal to Naomi, she is in the Bible, but you see it even more in the book.

Then you get to see things through Boaz's eyes too. I loved how the author really fleshed out his character. Wow, I would have never thought of the way she portrayed him. I loved his kindness, charity and sense of honor. He truly is a great guy in the story!

Then there's the setting. I could almost see and feel the hot, dry area and the people who would have been acclimated to living there. The plot line follows the Bible story really well, I loved that I knew what was coming next plot-wise, but I obviously didn't know how the author was going to work it all in.

This book is so great! I loved every bit of it!

[Ariell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting and well done take on the story of Ruth from the Bible. Well paced. I would imagine a lot of research went into the traditions of the times and culture of the Hebrews and Moabites. All around good read.

[~Bellegirl91~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 1/2 STARS

So this will be short but I've read some of H.B. Moore books before and absolutely LOOOVED them! This one I was actually excited for since Ruth is one of my bible heroes and always have been ever since I can remember and one of my favorite stories too. So my excitement for this was pretty high up, and I did like the first half and most of the second half. However, the more it went on for me, the more it almost seemed like some parts were dragging along and I didn't like it as much.

So for the last 20 or less so pages I ended up just skimming to the point I got to the last two chapters and the Epilogue and REALLY skimmed and I still understood it. So I guess overall, not my favorite of hers BUT I do have to say I still found the story clever and interesting to see her interpretation of this story and I loved Boaz's and Ruth's story as it unfolded up until their marriage and having a son.

I'd still recommend this book of course since I do like once in a while a good scriptural story to see authors POV's for them and their own interpretations of these well known stories. Also mainly because with these stories we don't get much about these people's lives and backgrounds but the spiritual ends of them so to see how different people and authors write these in their own version is fun no matter what. But I do have to say that Moore is indeed a great storyteller, but this one just wasn't my favorite from some other scriptural stories she's done but still enjoyable of my favorite heroine and story.

[Joy Crain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

It's not every day I find a Biblical fiction that I enjoy. This one is superb. Ruth was always one of my favorite Bible characters and this book paints her in a whole new light. The storytelling is impeccable and H.B. Moore has outdone herself in making the characters come to life instead of just being two-denominational.

This is my first book by her but I am certain it won't be my last.

I highly recommend this book for ages 13 and up for character death.

[M · Rating 2 out of 5]

I did not enjoy this book. I had pictured Boaz and Ruth quite different, based on my studies of various Biblical commentaries. I would have been fine with that, because what do any of us really know?

However, the book itself wasn't that good. The characters where two-dimensional--Ruth was loyal and kind and hardworking and beautiful and completely without flaws. Boaz was young and handsome and wealthy and also without flaws. The plot was thin. It felt like the author really stretched beyond what was reasonable to come up with a plot that contained drama and excitement and backstory. What is the problem with telling a simple story? I've read other historical novels by this author and really enjoyed them, which made this one even more disappointing.

[Lucinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Between 3 1/2 and 4.

[Tenille · Rating 5 out of 5]

H.B. Moore always does such a great job bringing these scripture stories to life for me. They have personality, they have families, I understand a little bit more of the customs and traditions of the time. I really enjoyed this book.

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this retelling of a Bible story. Well done with the historical context. I felt the story was a bit flat at times, it just didn’t pull at my attention. The characters were almost two dimensional, there wasn’t much depth. They were just telling a story.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was completely caught up in the story of Ruth and Boaz as I read this story. I love the way Moore brings biblical characters to life for me. I always read the account from the scriptures as I am reading these books. I gain so much insight into what life might have been like for these characters. Aside from looking more closely at the scripture story, I also love the characters that Moore creates. They are captivating and strong. The story sucks me in and I anxiously read on. Even after completing the book, the story swims around in my head for awhile. I am intrigued and want to know more about the lives of these characters. There is so much faith, strength, and goodness in each of them. I love that Moore brings these characters to life for me.

[Adrienne · Rating 5 out of 5]

When her husband dies, Ruth, who has converted to her husband's religion, decides to leave Moab and return to Bethlehem with her mother-in-law Naomi. She is determined to provide for herself and Naomi, and she's grateful when Boaz, a relative of Naomi's, allows her to glean his fields. She finds herself drawn to Boaz, even though she knows that a prosperous landowner can't be interested in an impoverished widow.
When Boaz's wife disappeared, he tracked her down, hoping against hope that she would want to return to him and their daughter. She doesn't--instead, she has rejected not only Boaz but also their faith. When Ruth and Naomi arrive in Bethlehem, Boaz can't help but notice Ruth's goodness.

I loved this book! Boaz and Ruth were both such engaging characters, as they're striving to do what's right even as they're hurting. I also enjoyed the details about what life in Bethlehem at the time would have been like. This was a captivating story!

I received a complimentary ARC; all opinions are my own.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this special biblical story about Ruth and Boaz

I recommend this book to my daughters and husband. I was very well acquainted with the story line but loved how HBMoore added the little details and special relationship that Ruth had with her mother in law Naomi and also the love she and Boaz developed The custom of marrying for business reasons was something i’m glad we don’t have in this day and age but glad they ended up marrying for love.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Ruth and Naomi has long been a favorite Bible story of mine. This novel makes the story come alive. I loved the alternating chapters between Ruth and Boaz. This book is well written with wonderful characters, some real and some filled in. I loved to watch the romance develop between Ruth and Boaz even though both were fighting their feelings.

[Nari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always loved the story of Ruth. I was hoping I would like this version as well. I loved it! I felt Ruth’s pain as she loses her first husband. I cheered for her as she goes with Naomi to Bethlehem and then works to support her. I felt like I understood who Boaz was better in this story. I started reading and had a hard time putting it down until I was done. I highly recommend this book.

[Alice M · Rating 5 out of 5]

“CAPTIVATING RETELLING OF A TREASURED ACCOUNT FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT”

MY REVIEW: 5 STARS OUT OF 5

SYNOPSIS: RUTH is a fictionalized novelization based upon the book of Ruth in the Old Testament. It is the account of one woman’s conversion from her Moabite upbringing to that of her husband’s Hebrew faith, how she reinforced her conversion to that faith after her husband’s death, and how God blessed her life as a result of her faithful devotion to the Gospel and living a life of selfless discipleship.

NARRATIVE REVIEW:
As one who has long been intrigued by the story of Ruth as recorded in the Holy Bible, I was curious to see how author H.B. Moore could take what little we know from four chapters in the Old Testament and create a fictionalized novel. I was very pleased with the author’s work and applaud her skill and talent in creating a captivating read while maintaining a stronghold to the scriptural account.

From the first sentence of chapter one, it’s clear that this is a personal story and H.B. Moore intends it’s reading as an account of “what could/might have been” for Ruth of the Old Testament. As a result of the death of Naomi’s sons, including Ruth’s husband, Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi, set out to take a pilgrimage of uncertainty as they seek the support of their selves with full reliance on and faith in the Lord. In an ancient society which primarily favors men higher than women, it was a daunting yet courageous journey that these two women took. Theirs was not an easily traveled journey, and their difficulties and challenges continued after their arrival in Bethlehem where they hoped to gain favor with Naomi’s kinsmen. With the help of relatives and acquaintances of their mutual faith, Ruth and Naomi demonstrate endurance, and create a life of sustenance and continued hope. Most importantly, there is a vivid depiction of Ruth’s determination to not only survive but to thrive by clinging to her conversion to the Hebrew faith as her compass for her life’s decision making.

I particularly enjoyed the way H. B. Moore portrays the interactions and develops the relationship between Ruth and Boaz. I also greatly enjoyed Ruth’s gumption to do whatever it took to maintain her virtue and demonstrate honor for her faith, her late husband, and her mother-in-law by holding firmly to her converted faith. Her character was inspirational. As a reader, it reminded me that throughout one’s life, we might need to declare our conversion of faith again and again to demonstrate our sincere steadfast dedication to the Lord and his holy words, and thereby stay our course.

The setting is vivid in the reader’s mind with descriptions that tap into all the senses. The story successfully utilizes cultural customs, clashes of difference in belief systems, the manner of dress/fashion of the period, the daily life in the home and community. Likewise illustrated throughout the story are examples of the hierarchy within the Hebrew family structure and the vulnerability yet the importance of women especially in sustaining life during harsh/desperate circumstances. It was easy to follow the perspective of the storytelling from chapter to chapter due to the author’s chapter headings illustrating either Ruth or Boaz, thus keeping the reader’s interest and comprehension anchored. The secondary characters, both historical and fictional, provide conflict, interest, depth, and dimension resulting in an enjoyable and rich story.

Overall, the story of Ruth is a victory of the human spirit, triumph over trials and adversity, based on a foundation of religious conversion. Author H.B. Moore successfully brings significant emotional value to the satisfying conclusion of her portrayal of the story of Ruth with an honorable marriage to Boaz and a posterity for which she had long desired. This novel is well-crafted and very enjoyable to read.

CONCLUSION:
I consider RUTH to be my favorite read of 2018 thus far. I enjoyed it so much that I will be including a copy in the GIVEAWAY that my writer’s website will be hosting later this year during National Authors Week. After reading this novel and drafting a preliminary review, RUTH garnered some rather prestigious literary recognition:
• BEST OF STATE - UTAH 2018: LITERARY ARTS, FICTION
• FINALIST, HISTORICAL ROMANCE - 2018 WHITNEY AWARDS COMPETITION, LDSTORYMAKERS.
I give this novel a strong favorable recommendation for reading. It will appeal to both female and male readers across generations, and it will have particular appeal to readers who enjoy reading novels based upon accounts recorded in the Holy Scriptures.

Reviewed by:
ALICE M. BATZEL
Published Playwright, Journalist, Freelance Writer

[Lauralee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruth lives a happy life with her husband and her mother-in-law. Her happy life is shattered when a group of thieves tries to steal their sheep and her husband is injured. Her husband later dies from his injury. Ruth has to make a tough decision to go back home or stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi. She decides to go with Naomi to Bethlehem. There, she works the fields in order to make a living. She meets Boaz and falls in love with him. She wants nothing more than to be Boaz’s wife.

Ruth is one of my favorite books in the bible. Her story is a test of faith, courage, and love. Mrs. Moore’s Ruth is not only a faithful retelling, but she also fills in the missing pieces. We learn more about the backstory of Ruth. The story shows Ruth’s happiness and hard times in her marriage. She believes that she cannot produce children because after eight years of marriage, she has miscarried twice. Ruth also knows how to shoot and defend herself. The author shows that Ruth’s family has fallen on hard times. Thus, Ruth was not immune to hard work when she worked in the fields.

Boaz is also a full fleshed character. His wife, Hannah, has left for to serve a pagan god. Because of this, he feels insecure. He is not ready to take another wife. Ruth proves him wrong. Ruth’s virtues shows him that there are strong believers out there. It is through Ruth’s goodness, selflessness, and faith that he is able to be healed and feel love again. Both Ruth and Boaz have lost their beloved spouses, but through common faith they are able to help and love each other.

Overall, Ruth is a novel about loyalty, humility, and perseverance. The message of the book is that God works in mysterious ways. I found all the characters to be very realistic. There are some original characters and fictional subplots that are not mentioned in the Bible. Still, I thought they were creative and helped flesh out Ruth and Boaz’s characters. The setting of ancient Israel is vividly detailed. Ruth is also a sweet and simple love story. Ruth is Christian fiction at its best! It proves why biblical fiction should be read. It reminds us that even though these people lived long ago, they still overcame challenges just as people do today. Ruth is perfect for fans of Angela Hunt, Jill Eileen Smith, and Joan Wolf.
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars
I love the biblical story of Ruth. This is a fictional version taken from her basic storyline and embellished. As long as you go into reading it with that reminder, you will like it.
Ruth really loves her husband, I loved seeing that relationship. He is injured by sheep rustlers and dies from an infection in his foot. We know from the Bible, Oprah and Naomi’s husband dies as well and because of the times, without a male provider they are left destitute. Naomi of course decides to return to her homeland and Ruth of course feels the need to go with her and take care of her. She meets Boaz as she is gleaning from his fields with other widows. The story flips back and forth between Boaz’ and Ruth’s POV and I enjoyed reading Boaz’s fictional background and heartache. They both have healing to do, but fall in love with each other. When she finds out the she needs to marry the next of kin, she goes to Boaz and begs him to marry her instead. He desires the marriage as well and after talking with the council and his cousin, all is well.
It made me ponder more about Ruth. Why did she not have any children until after she marries Boaz? What really was his full story?
I liked this version and would recommend it to anyone who likes historical fiction. Even though it is considered Christian, I think all would enjoy the story. It is not preachy at all. Im planning on reading more from this LDS author.

**I received a digital copy from the publisher through Net Gallery for my honest review.