What do you think?
Rate this book
Hadassah, Queen Esther of Persia
One of the great heroines of the Old Testament, Hadassah was a beautiful, graceful young woman who put her faith in God and her guardian, her cousin Mordecai.
She dreams of marrying Shamir, a tall, handsome, studious young man who is the rabbi’s son. Her heart beats faster when she hears the sound of his deep voice as he reads the Torah. And she hopes that he will visit Mordecai soon to present a betrothal request.
Then, an upheaval in King Xerxes’s palace changes everything. Queen Vashti has been banished and an edict goes out for all qualified young virgins throughout the empire to be taken to the palace as he searches for a new queen.
Fear strikes in the hearts of many, including Mordecai, as he realizes Hadassah will be taken. To hide her identity as a Jew, he tells her to go by the name of Esther. Since he works as a record-keeper at the king’s gates, he can keep tabs on how she is doing.
Hadassah: Queen Esther of Persia imagines what life was like for the woman who saved her people—and perhaps found love in the process.
She dreams of marrying Shamir, a tall, handsome, studious young man who is the rabbi’s son. Her heart beats faster when she hears the sound of his deep voice as he reads the Torah. And she hopes that he will visit Mordecai soon to present a betrothal request.
Then, an upheaval in King Xerxes’s palace changes everything. Queen Vashti has been banished and an edict goes out for all qualified young virgins throughout the empire to be taken to the palace as he searches for a new queen.
Fear strikes in the hearts of many, including Mordecai, as he realizes Hadassah will be taken. To hide her identity as a Jew, he tells her to go by the name of Esther. Since he works as a record-keeper at the king’s gates, he can keep tabs on how she is doing.
Hadassah: Queen Esther of Persia imagines what life was like for the woman who saved her people—and perhaps found love in the process.
304 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2019
38 people are currently reading
681 people want to read
About the author
Diana Wallis Taylor
22 books224 followersDiana Wallis Taylor is the author of the novels Journey to the Well and Martha and lives in California. Find out more at www.dianawallistaylor.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
June 18, 2019
When I saw Hadassah come up for review, my interest was piqued. I haven’t read many retellings of Queen Esther’s story, but I’ve naturally had an inclination that way since I was named after her. So though I knew I’d either end up enjoying or hating the story, I thought I’d try it—after all, the synopsis didn’t have any red flags in it!
And what a book! I’m glad I got the chance to pick it up! One of the reasons why historical fiction is one of my favorite genres is because of the history one can get from there—not only the happenings, but also a sense of the people’s thought processes, culture, ways of living, foods, and so much more—all in the pages of a book. I also love reading Biblical fiction, because there have been that one or two that really brought the story to life without leaving a bad taste with the flavor of “artist’s privilege” in my mouth—I’m sure you know the like. I’m always hopeful of finding another book I can appreciate in the genre, though, so this book was a delight to my readerly senses recently.
It’s always a difficult line to walk when you’re writing Biblical fiction. I’m pretty sure we all judge a lot more harshly with that than with normal historical fiction, and perhaps to some extent to good measure, but it is always refreshing to see something that follows the original story, shares the history, and is still an interesting read! This book had some snippets and interpretations of history aligned chronologically with the Biblical account that I had never considered before. Esther didn’t do anything that doesn’t make sense from a Biblical perspective, and her relationship with the king was precious—different from what I expected, but very good, and it made sense with what we know from the Bible!
For me, the main “down” side to this book was the fact that especially in the beginning, the writing style felt somewhat stilted—or simple, or something. I didn’t notice it near the latter part of the book as much, but it may have been because I was so into the story by then that I just wanted to find out what happened next (even though I already knew outcome well!). That did detract from the story for me somewhat, though.
In all, this was an excellent book. If you’re looking for something that tells the story in a clean way, sticks to the Biblical account, and correlates the history as well, you might just like this book. I certainly did, and I’m interested in seeing what else this author has written!
I requested a free review copy of this book from CelebrateLit, and this is my honest opinion of it.
And what a book! I’m glad I got the chance to pick it up! One of the reasons why historical fiction is one of my favorite genres is because of the history one can get from there—not only the happenings, but also a sense of the people’s thought processes, culture, ways of living, foods, and so much more—all in the pages of a book. I also love reading Biblical fiction, because there have been that one or two that really brought the story to life without leaving a bad taste with the flavor of “artist’s privilege” in my mouth—I’m sure you know the like. I’m always hopeful of finding another book I can appreciate in the genre, though, so this book was a delight to my readerly senses recently.
It’s always a difficult line to walk when you’re writing Biblical fiction. I’m pretty sure we all judge a lot more harshly with that than with normal historical fiction, and perhaps to some extent to good measure, but it is always refreshing to see something that follows the original story, shares the history, and is still an interesting read! This book had some snippets and interpretations of history aligned chronologically with the Biblical account that I had never considered before. Esther didn’t do anything that doesn’t make sense from a Biblical perspective, and her relationship with the king was precious—different from what I expected, but very good, and it made sense with what we know from the Bible!
For me, the main “down” side to this book was the fact that especially in the beginning, the writing style felt somewhat stilted—or simple, or something. I didn’t notice it near the latter part of the book as much, but it may have been because I was so into the story by then that I just wanted to find out what happened next (even though I already knew outcome well!). That did detract from the story for me somewhat, though.
In all, this was an excellent book. If you’re looking for something that tells the story in a clean way, sticks to the Biblical account, and correlates the history as well, you might just like this book. I certainly did, and I’m interested in seeing what else this author has written!
I requested a free review copy of this book from CelebrateLit, and this is my honest opinion of it.
June 23, 2019
I was very disappointed with this fictional account of the life of Queen Esther, a Jewish girl born as Hadassah. Each of its few positive traits was tainted by a negative.
Though the characters were engaging, I'm not sure how realistic they were. Esther seemed to have no flaws, always full of faith and calm. I wanted more of Esther's doubts about her role in history and feelings about her night with the king. Mordecai was probably the most realistic character, with King Xerxes next.
The POV was always third-person, but it was almost always deep into one character or another, usually either Esther or Mordecai, which was a strange shift from a young girl's perspective to an older man.
Which, by the way, Mordecai's age was never spelled out and felt inconsistent. He and his wife were past child-bearing age when Hadassah was 8 years old. But 14 years later (9 years until Hadassah was made queen + 5 years as queen, in this story), he still hadn't reached his "sunset years" and was still serving as the king's advisor. And yet his uncle, Hadassah's father, was still young enough to bear children. It was possible, but not likely. The Hebrew word for "cousin" was a generic word used for any kind of kinship, not necessarily the children of your parents' siblings.
Even though I enjoyed some of the historical references, it felt that some of them were just dumped without a real purpose. There were several other inconsistencies that, though minor, pulled me out of the story. Especially the reference to Hadassah being of the lineage of King Saul because she was from the tribe of Benjamin. All of Saul's children were killed to make way for King David to ascend the throne. The only exceptions were lame Mephibosheth and possibly daughters (like Mihal). Unless she could place her line directly from them, (which was over 400 years and 20+ generations before), she couldn't have been in the direct line of King Saul himself.
I think the main problem with this story, however, was the pacing. There were so many chapters at the beginning given to her childhood and what her life was like before being chosen as queen. But that all seemed to be forgotten, except for her belief in Adonai, the Jews' name for the God of the Bible. Then so little time was actually given to the account in the Bible where Esther saved her people from slaughter. And around that time, we no longer heard Esther's feelings and inner thoughts about what happened. It then became almost a historical recounting from a faraway narrator.
There was also a lot of mention of the physical aspect of marriage. It seemed to be the basis of the entire "love" relationship. I know that queens at that time didn't have much authority, but it's hard for me to believe it was true love, especially if the king still used his concubines, as is pointed out several times in the story. As a hopeless romantic, the romance fell short of my expectations.
Maybe it was that there really was no plot. It was just a bunch of episodes, vignettes into the life of Hadassah. If the main plotline was that she was chosen to be king "for such a time as this" to save the Jews, then the story should have ended after she saved her people. If the main plotline was the love story, as the author implies in her Author's Note, then the story should have ended with her in the king's favor. There was absolutely nothing satisfying about ending the story where it did. We didn't need to know any of that stuff (neither did the grotesque death rituals of the Persians add anything to the story, except as another information dump).
Unfortunately, I cannot recommend this book. Perhaps someone else will find it charming and love it. But I just didn't enjoy much of anything about it.
(I received this book for free. The decision to write a review, as well as the opinions expressed in it, are all my own. I was not compensated for this review.)
Though the characters were engaging, I'm not sure how realistic they were. Esther seemed to have no flaws, always full of faith and calm. I wanted more of Esther's doubts about her role in history and feelings about her night with the king. Mordecai was probably the most realistic character, with King Xerxes next.
The POV was always third-person, but it was almost always deep into one character or another, usually either Esther or Mordecai, which was a strange shift from a young girl's perspective to an older man.
Which, by the way, Mordecai's age was never spelled out and felt inconsistent. He and his wife were past child-bearing age when Hadassah was 8 years old. But 14 years later (9 years until Hadassah was made queen + 5 years as queen, in this story), he still hadn't reached his "sunset years" and was still serving as the king's advisor. And yet his uncle, Hadassah's father, was still young enough to bear children. It was possible, but not likely. The Hebrew word for "cousin" was a generic word used for any kind of kinship, not necessarily the children of your parents' siblings.
Even though I enjoyed some of the historical references, it felt that some of them were just dumped without a real purpose. There were several other inconsistencies that, though minor, pulled me out of the story. Especially the reference to Hadassah being of the lineage of King Saul because she was from the tribe of Benjamin. All of Saul's children were killed to make way for King David to ascend the throne. The only exceptions were lame Mephibosheth and possibly daughters (like Mihal). Unless she could place her line directly from them, (which was over 400 years and 20+ generations before), she couldn't have been in the direct line of King Saul himself.
I think the main problem with this story, however, was the pacing. There were so many chapters at the beginning given to her childhood and what her life was like before being chosen as queen. But that all seemed to be forgotten, except for her belief in Adonai, the Jews' name for the God of the Bible. Then so little time was actually given to the account in the Bible where Esther saved her people from slaughter. And around that time, we no longer heard Esther's feelings and inner thoughts about what happened. It then became almost a historical recounting from a faraway narrator.
There was also a lot of mention of the physical aspect of marriage. It seemed to be the basis of the entire "love" relationship. I know that queens at that time didn't have much authority, but it's hard for me to believe it was true love, especially if the king still used his concubines, as is pointed out several times in the story. As a hopeless romantic, the romance fell short of my expectations.
Maybe it was that there really was no plot. It was just a bunch of episodes, vignettes into the life of Hadassah. If the main plotline was that she was chosen to be king "for such a time as this" to save the Jews, then the story should have ended after she saved her people. If the main plotline was the love story, as the author implies in her Author's Note, then the story should have ended with her in the king's favor. There was absolutely nothing satisfying about ending the story where it did. We didn't need to know any of that stuff (neither did the grotesque death rituals of the Persians add anything to the story, except as another information dump).
Unfortunately, I cannot recommend this book. Perhaps someone else will find it charming and love it. But I just didn't enjoy much of anything about it.
(I received this book for free. The decision to write a review, as well as the opinions expressed in it, are all my own. I was not compensated for this review.)
July 6, 2019
Esther is one of my favourite biblical stories for a number of reasons. On the outside, it’s a rags-to-riches fairytale—unknown girl captures the king’s eye and he makes her his queen. And yet, what a difficult situation for a young Jewish girl to be thrust into! And then there’s that thrilling scene where she boldly approaches Xerxes’ throne, risking death in order to save the Jewish people. I remember being absolutely enthralled the first time I heard the story in Sunday school.
In spite of its potential, this book fell flat for me. For starters, the writing told a lot more than it showed, and in language that did little to stir my senses and emotions. It also presented a rather simplistic and romanticised version of Esther’s relationship with Xerxes. There was no complexity to it at all.
But more than anything else, I felt that this story completely missed the opportunity to delve beyond the surface of the biblical account, both with the plot and the characters. Esther and Mordecai aged as the story progressed, but there was no personal or spiritual growth. The author didn’t explore motives, internal conflict, doubts, or anything else that would help me to think about these characters on a deeper level.
The Bible also records that Esther “won the favour of everyone who saw her.” How did she win their favour? What gave her the combination of strength, wisdom, and gentleness that enabled her to do so in such circumstances? This story held no answers to those kinds of questions beyond a few lines about how she made polite conversation with the other concubines and made an effort to remember all their names.
There are certainly more historical and day-to-day details compared to the biblical story, and if that’s what you’re looking for in your biblical fiction, then this might be a good choice for you. There’s background to Hadassah’s story, including how she came to live with her cousin; it fills in historical details such as food, travelling to Xerxes’ summer palace at Persepolis, and so on. But it skips over virtually all of the palace intrigue. I mean, a harem of women competing for the king’s favour, assassination plots, political one-upmanship—there’s so much to work with in this story, yet even the climax of the plot with Haman felt like a by-the-by.
As I said, if you’re looking for biblical fiction that adds historical and background detail to the biblical account, then this book could be a good choice for you, but I want my biblical fiction to delve deeper, and this one just didn’t deliver for me.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
In spite of its potential, this book fell flat for me. For starters, the writing told a lot more than it showed, and in language that did little to stir my senses and emotions. It also presented a rather simplistic and romanticised version of Esther’s relationship with Xerxes. There was no complexity to it at all.
But more than anything else, I felt that this story completely missed the opportunity to delve beyond the surface of the biblical account, both with the plot and the characters. Esther and Mordecai aged as the story progressed, but there was no personal or spiritual growth. The author didn’t explore motives, internal conflict, doubts, or anything else that would help me to think about these characters on a deeper level.
The Bible also records that Esther “won the favour of everyone who saw her.” How did she win their favour? What gave her the combination of strength, wisdom, and gentleness that enabled her to do so in such circumstances? This story held no answers to those kinds of questions beyond a few lines about how she made polite conversation with the other concubines and made an effort to remember all their names.
There are certainly more historical and day-to-day details compared to the biblical story, and if that’s what you’re looking for in your biblical fiction, then this might be a good choice for you. There’s background to Hadassah’s story, including how she came to live with her cousin; it fills in historical details such as food, travelling to Xerxes’ summer palace at Persepolis, and so on. But it skips over virtually all of the palace intrigue. I mean, a harem of women competing for the king’s favour, assassination plots, political one-upmanship—there’s so much to work with in this story, yet even the climax of the plot with Haman felt like a by-the-by.
As I said, if you’re looking for biblical fiction that adds historical and background detail to the biblical account, then this book could be a good choice for you, but I want my biblical fiction to delve deeper, and this one just didn’t deliver for me.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
July 15, 2019
How Does Hadassah Compare to the Real Story of Esther?
When we think of Esther and her story, we think of her being forced to marry a king, and by doing so, she’s in a position to save her people.
So, I was surprised to discover that the book is more of a fictional memoir for “Hadassah” than it appeared in the synopsis. It begins at a very young age (under eight for sure) and ends with her burial. In the middle years, we’re given the story we know best but it’s not the primary story. I’ve seen this in another of the author’s books, so it might be something to note in the future.
Being fiction, I can’t complain so much about how she portrayed each person. Nothing the author did was in stark opposition to how the Bible portrays the individuals, but the only characters who interested me at all were Mordecai and Xerxes’ mother.
Esther was more of a Persian version of Elsie Dinsmore than a heroic queen who saved her people, and Xerxes felt like a Ken doll stand in.
That wasn't it, though.
The sensuality combined with historical and customary info-dumping became really difficult to read when I didn’t really care about the characters. Add to that a plot that I know well and yet didn’t engage me, and I was left unsatisfied and disappointed.
This was the second book I’ve read (or attempted to read) by this author, and I think it’ll be my last for a while. Unfortunately, mostly clean writing and editing (I got an ARC so there’s a good chance the few typos and errors that jumped out at me have been corrected) don’t make up for a book that just didn’t deliver.
Still, there are strengths to Hadassah. People who love Biblical fiction and/or the story of Esther should probably read the “Look Inside” portion of the book on Amazon and see if they think they’d enjoy it. It might just be me. Furthermore, while the book was really sensual in places (for obvious reasons, of course), it was clean and in that regard, I believe historically and culturally accurate.
While I'm not sorry I requested and received a free review copy of the book, I am sorry I can't sing its praises. I hope it's just me.
When we think of Esther and her story, we think of her being forced to marry a king, and by doing so, she’s in a position to save her people.
So, I was surprised to discover that the book is more of a fictional memoir for “Hadassah” than it appeared in the synopsis. It begins at a very young age (under eight for sure) and ends with her burial. In the middle years, we’re given the story we know best but it’s not the primary story. I’ve seen this in another of the author’s books, so it might be something to note in the future.
Being fiction, I can’t complain so much about how she portrayed each person. Nothing the author did was in stark opposition to how the Bible portrays the individuals, but the only characters who interested me at all were Mordecai and Xerxes’ mother.
Esther was more of a Persian version of Elsie Dinsmore than a heroic queen who saved her people, and Xerxes felt like a Ken doll stand in.
That wasn't it, though.
The sensuality combined with historical and customary info-dumping became really difficult to read when I didn’t really care about the characters. Add to that a plot that I know well and yet didn’t engage me, and I was left unsatisfied and disappointed.
This was the second book I’ve read (or attempted to read) by this author, and I think it’ll be my last for a while. Unfortunately, mostly clean writing and editing (I got an ARC so there’s a good chance the few typos and errors that jumped out at me have been corrected) don’t make up for a book that just didn’t deliver.
Still, there are strengths to Hadassah. People who love Biblical fiction and/or the story of Esther should probably read the “Look Inside” portion of the book on Amazon and see if they think they’d enjoy it. It might just be me. Furthermore, while the book was really sensual in places (for obvious reasons, of course), it was clean and in that regard, I believe historically and culturally accurate.
While I'm not sorry I requested and received a free review copy of the book, I am sorry I can't sing its praises. I hope it's just me.
July 8, 2019
I was so excited to read this book, as Esther is one of my very favorite bible stories, probably second only to Ruth and Naomi. Her story is so inspiring, and since I’ve just started my journey with biblical fiction, I haven’t read any stories on her yet. Plus, I found the cover to be really intriguing! Those eyes…..eyes can say so much about a person and whomever designed this cover did so wonderfully.
I’m not really sure what I expected going into this story. In some ways, I found myself even more intrigued with her story. But in other ways, I found myself longing for a little more. Let me try to explain.
Diana Wallis Taylor did a wonderful job of weaving facts into the story. The way she writes about Hadassah’s childhood was intriguing to me, and made me want to go search out more about her. And I think to some extent, that is what biblical fiction is meant for. Getting the reader to think more about the time period, more about what the bible character would have gone through, and perhaps take them on a fact seeking journey to find out more. There were several times when I was reading that I found myself wanting to do just that.
That being said, I don’t feel like I was ever able to connect with Hadassah. Wallis Taylor didn’t really dive into her head, her emotions, or her character growth. Please know this is just personal preference. I really wanted to get inside of her mind, to learn more about the girl herself, and not just the overall story. Some people may not be looking for that, so this could very well be the story for you. Even so, I would go back and read this again, with my bible in hand as well as some bible reference books. Like I said, it really made me want to dive into a deeper study of her story, which is why I read biblical fiction in the first place.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I’m not really sure what I expected going into this story. In some ways, I found myself even more intrigued with her story. But in other ways, I found myself longing for a little more. Let me try to explain.
Diana Wallis Taylor did a wonderful job of weaving facts into the story. The way she writes about Hadassah’s childhood was intriguing to me, and made me want to go search out more about her. And I think to some extent, that is what biblical fiction is meant for. Getting the reader to think more about the time period, more about what the bible character would have gone through, and perhaps take them on a fact seeking journey to find out more. There were several times when I was reading that I found myself wanting to do just that.
That being said, I don’t feel like I was ever able to connect with Hadassah. Wallis Taylor didn’t really dive into her head, her emotions, or her character growth. Please know this is just personal preference. I really wanted to get inside of her mind, to learn more about the girl herself, and not just the overall story. Some people may not be looking for that, so this could very well be the story for you. Even so, I would go back and read this again, with my bible in hand as well as some bible reference books. Like I said, it really made me want to dive into a deeper study of her story, which is why I read biblical fiction in the first place.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 10, 2019
The biblical account of Hadassah, Esther, is the basis of Hadassah. Diana Wallis Taylor studied the biblical account, the Persian Empire and culture, and the Greek/Persian War to gain an understanding that enabled her to weave a wonderful love story about a beautiful Jewish girl and a pagan king.
Diana did a great job weaving in additional details about the culture and kingdom that are not present in the biblical account. In her “Author���s Notes” at the end of the book, she explains that she added details that she felt were necessary to the story she was writing.
Diana seamlessly wove together the biblical account and the facts she learned in her further studies. The result? A fascinating and compelling story of Hadassah, whom we know as Queen Esther.
Don’t think that this book was written because the biblical account is incomplete. It is complete and shows God at work in and through every person and situation. Some may not like the addition of details and the extra-biblical dialogue, but I enjoyed the story. If fact, it prompted me to go back and study a few things in the biblical account.
This is a good book for all ages.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing from Diana Wallis Taylor. I was not required to provide a positive review. Thoughts in “My Two Cents” are my own opinion.
Diana did a great job weaving in additional details about the culture and kingdom that are not present in the biblical account. In her “Author���s Notes” at the end of the book, she explains that she added details that she felt were necessary to the story she was writing.
Diana seamlessly wove together the biblical account and the facts she learned in her further studies. The result? A fascinating and compelling story of Hadassah, whom we know as Queen Esther.
Don’t think that this book was written because the biblical account is incomplete. It is complete and shows God at work in and through every person and situation. Some may not like the addition of details and the extra-biblical dialogue, but I enjoyed the story. If fact, it prompted me to go back and study a few things in the biblical account.
This is a good book for all ages.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing from Diana Wallis Taylor. I was not required to provide a positive review. Thoughts in “My Two Cents” are my own opinion.
July 6, 2019
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
When it comes to Bible stories, Esther happens to be one of my two favorite women in the Bible. I have extensively studied the book, written a paper on it in Bible college, and have read and written adaptation of it. Needless to say, I went in with very high expectations. And I tell you that those expectations were met and exceeded. By way of content, there is nothing inappropriate except for the fact that killings and sex outside the confines of marriage occur. But it is nothing outside the realms of the book in the Bible.
I simply adored the way this author chose to tell one of my favorite Bible stories. It was clear she had done her homework. However, she didn't merely regurgitate the historical facts. She added emotion and personalities to characters who could have otherwise come off as two-dimensional and wooden. While I knew what invariably would happen, the author gave us an intriguing look into the perspective of Esther and Mordecai. The action never lagged. And she gave a rather fitting conclusion to the story that was based in fact, though given a creative spin. I've read many Biblical novels in my day, but this is by far one of the absolute best.
When it comes to Bible stories, Esther happens to be one of my two favorite women in the Bible. I have extensively studied the book, written a paper on it in Bible college, and have read and written adaptation of it. Needless to say, I went in with very high expectations. And I tell you that those expectations were met and exceeded. By way of content, there is nothing inappropriate except for the fact that killings and sex outside the confines of marriage occur. But it is nothing outside the realms of the book in the Bible.
I simply adored the way this author chose to tell one of my favorite Bible stories. It was clear she had done her homework. However, she didn't merely regurgitate the historical facts. She added emotion and personalities to characters who could have otherwise come off as two-dimensional and wooden. While I knew what invariably would happen, the author gave us an intriguing look into the perspective of Esther and Mordecai. The action never lagged. And she gave a rather fitting conclusion to the story that was based in fact, though given a creative spin. I've read many Biblical novels in my day, but this is by far one of the absolute best.
July 13, 2019
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Hadassah. It’s a story I’ve read many times in the Bible. I love her story. And reading Hadassah’ story through the eyes of Diane Wallis Taylor was totally Amazing. I read very few authors that write Biblical fiction, and Ms. Taylor captured my attention many years ago when I read her first book, Journey to the Well. And each book gets better and better.
Ms. Taylor does a wonderful job with the characters she created for this story and their development throughout this story. And it’s very clear that she did a lot of research to write the vivid scenes she so expertly creates throughout the book. And of course as with any writer, there were liberties taken to make the story fit. But no changes to the story of Esther and how God’s hand was on her life at all times. This is a beautiful story of how God can take a situation that seems unfixable and bring glory to Him. I love the sweet story of Hadassah and how her life changed for the better as she trusted in her God.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Hadassah. It’s a story I’ve read many times in the Bible. I love her story. And reading Hadassah’ story through the eyes of Diane Wallis Taylor was totally Amazing. I read very few authors that write Biblical fiction, and Ms. Taylor captured my attention many years ago when I read her first book, Journey to the Well. And each book gets better and better.
Ms. Taylor does a wonderful job with the characters she created for this story and their development throughout this story. And it’s very clear that she did a lot of research to write the vivid scenes she so expertly creates throughout the book. And of course as with any writer, there were liberties taken to make the story fit. But no changes to the story of Esther and how God’s hand was on her life at all times. This is a beautiful story of how God can take a situation that seems unfixable and bring glory to Him. I love the sweet story of Hadassah and how her life changed for the better as she trusted in her God.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
July 3, 2019
Considering how much I love reading about Hadassah (aka Queen Esther), I jumped at the chance to read and review this book. Unfortunately for me it felt too mechanical and I wasn't able to get really into it. There was a lot of dialogue and desctiption of events, but the author didn't share what was going on on an emotional level and it prevented me from being able to connect with the characters or to get a picture in my head of how they were effected by the events around them. This wasn't the first read for me by this author and I quite enjoyed the other book I read, so it might have more to do with the fact that there is a lot of competition out there and very high expectations when it comes to writing about such a beloved biblical character. I think people more unfamiliar with Esther's life could enjoy this as a way to learn more about her, but as someone who has loved reading about Esther in the past I was looking for more from it.
*I received a copy of this book through CelebrateLit. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
*I received a copy of this book through CelebrateLit. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
July 12, 2019
This is the first book by Diana Wallis Taylor I have read and I was quite excited to read about Hadassah since the book of Esther is near and dear to my heart. This story of Hadassah incorporates many intricate details of Susa’s city life. The author also includes interesting tidbits about Hadassah, Mordecai, Xerxes, and his queen mother that make these main characters unique fictionally from the characterizations I’ve read in other Biblical fiction books based on Esther. Good research into the history, culture, and customs of the Persians help to paint the background well.
The pacing of the plot, however, felt a bit off and the story dragged somewhat until Haman came into play. I was a bit surprised that Haman had such little role in this story and most of the plot was about Esther and Xerxes’ relationship and Esther’s friendship with her eunuch guard and her mother-in-law. It was interesting to learn about Esther and Mordecai’s presumed final resting place which I wasn’t aware of.
I received a copy of the book via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
The pacing of the plot, however, felt a bit off and the story dragged somewhat until Haman came into play. I was a bit surprised that Haman had such little role in this story and most of the plot was about Esther and Xerxes’ relationship and Esther’s friendship with her eunuch guard and her mother-in-law. It was interesting to learn about Esther and Mordecai’s presumed final resting place which I wasn’t aware of.
I received a copy of the book via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
July 8, 2019
I’ve always been intrigued by the Biblical account of Esther and was anxious to read this novel. I was swept away into a Historical account of the story and immersed into the culture of foods, dress, maids, etc. I felt the research was impeccable, but I experienced a disconnect from the characters and that’s why I didn’t give it five stars. I learned a lot from the book, including where Esther and Mordecai are supposedly buried. I was able to picture the palace and how things looked and smelled as the words were descriptive and were like looking at a snapshot of the past. The culture and time was brought to life. I recommend to my Historical fans.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
July 8, 2019
I love reading biblical fiction so I was really excited to read this story of Esther. This story was pretty long-beginning with Esther being around 8 years old until the end of the story with the death of her husband the King.
I liked that the author brought biblical facts to life and of course adding her own parts to the story. I loved getting to know the characters and I especially loved how beautiful, strong, and courageous Esther was throughout this entire story.
Very well written-if you enjoy reading biblical fiction, I know you would love this story of God’s love and the story of Esther.
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
I liked that the author brought biblical facts to life and of course adding her own parts to the story. I loved getting to know the characters and I especially loved how beautiful, strong, and courageous Esther was throughout this entire story.
Very well written-if you enjoy reading biblical fiction, I know you would love this story of God’s love and the story of Esther.
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
March 12, 2020
Diana Wallis Taylor is a gifted writer of Biblical fiction. The ability to accurately weave the biblical account with back story is a gift. I particularly liked the story of Esther, as read the OT account at the same time. Well worth the read. The only thing which frustrated me was the number of spelling and grammar errors in the kindle version. However, that’s probably because SPAG is important to me when reading and writing, and others may not be so critical.
March 9, 2024
Tastefully done. Stuck close to the original story with well-researched history.
I struggled with the facts that Hadassah’s grief of losing both her parents in the beginning did not feel realistic. She immediately called Mordecai and his wife Ima and Abba and it does not give her space to grieve her parents. Rose colored view of adoption. As well as the fact that Esther was not a dynamic character, she was painted flawless with no need for change or growth.
I struggled with the facts that Hadassah’s grief of losing both her parents in the beginning did not feel realistic. She immediately called Mordecai and his wife Ima and Abba and it does not give her space to grieve her parents. Rose colored view of adoption. As well as the fact that Esther was not a dynamic character, she was painted flawless with no need for change or growth.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2019
I have always loved the story of Esther. It's been one of my favorite books of the Bible, to see God's provision and protection for His people, even when they don't understand the circumstances. Diana Wallis Taylor does a wonderful job of bringing the story to life. There were things she added in that certainly make you think. when reading the account in the Bible I don't always think of what went through Esther's mind, what happened to Esther after the Biblical account left off, or the historical things happening at the time that might not be mentioned in the Bible. I know some things in the book may be just speculation, but it really gave me a fresh appreciation for the story. I could not put this book down, I highly highly recommend it! You will not be disappointed!
**I received a copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
**I received a copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 3, 2025
2.75🌟
The setting was nice.
I didn't feel connected to the characters.
Hadassah/ Esther, felt a bit flat to me. There wasn't a character growth, it feels like she did everything right.
Mordecais pov felt unnecessary.
The pacing of this book was fast and I liked the way the food was described.
The setting was nice.
I didn't feel connected to the characters.
Hadassah/ Esther, felt a bit flat to me. There wasn't a character growth, it feels like she did everything right.
Mordecais pov felt unnecessary.
The pacing of this book was fast and I liked the way the food was described.
April 21, 2020
Beautiful!
What a beautiful story of one of my favorite women in the Old Testament! I loved everything about this novel, and though it left me emotional,I'm sure I will be reading it again and again.
What a beautiful story of one of my favorite women in the Old Testament! I loved everything about this novel, and though it left me emotional,I'm sure I will be reading it again and again.
August 14, 2019
Biblical fiction by this author is meticulous with food, culture, lifestyle and visuals of the location and period of history. The research of these subjects is thorough and adds credibility to the story. The Jewish characters are basic outcasts in this society. The Persian territory proves a impressive and powerful control of community.
Hadassah who does become Queen Esther in a brief span of time, influences that world with integrity and wisdom. Women were only able to suggest, abide alongside their superiors and simply observe. This story effectively follows a period of time when changes come about for the better. There are instances from earlier history to share helping those around the Queen to appreciate the plight of the chosen people. This adds meaning and reason for the reader's experience.
Hadassah who does become Queen Esther in a brief span of time, influences that world with integrity and wisdom. Women were only able to suggest, abide alongside their superiors and simply observe. This story effectively follows a period of time when changes come about for the better. There are instances from earlier history to share helping those around the Queen to appreciate the plight of the chosen people. This adds meaning and reason for the reader's experience.
July 12, 2019
"Hadassah" by Diana Wallis Taylor is another wonderful book about Queen Esther. I don't think a person can ever read enough about the Biblical characters. Each author bring their own personal touch and style to their own books. Just like the others authors, this novel brings out more of the struggles the Jews went through during this time. Every time I hear the phrase "For such a time as this" I am reminder that God does allow events and circumstances into our lives to show His purpose in His own time.
I don't think I would had the courage to face all that they had to endure. I can't image what would have happened if Esther hadn't had courage to do what she did and go to the king uninvited.
This story is another reason why I read Biblical Fiction, it shows that these characters had to face life changing and often dangerous situations but they remembered that God was with them and promised them that His way was best.
I really liked the prayers that were prayed by Esther and her uncle, I am going to copy them and repeat them often. I feel like they might help me feel peaceful when I feel stresses and am worrying, I feel like they might work for me and they don't really feel like they are only for Jews. After all, they served and followed the same God I am trying to serve.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
I don't think I would had the courage to face all that they had to endure. I can't image what would have happened if Esther hadn't had courage to do what she did and go to the king uninvited.
This story is another reason why I read Biblical Fiction, it shows that these characters had to face life changing and often dangerous situations but they remembered that God was with them and promised them that His way was best.
I really liked the prayers that were prayed by Esther and her uncle, I am going to copy them and repeat them often. I feel like they might help me feel peaceful when I feel stresses and am worrying, I feel like they might work for me and they don't really feel like they are only for Jews. After all, they served and followed the same God I am trying to serve.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
July 2, 2019
“She must trust Adonai for strength to face her future.”
Although God is not directly mentioned by name in the Biblical book of Esther, His presence and the manifestation of His power are clearly demonstrated. With any work of Biblical fiction, some liberties are taken in order to offer more details and flesh out characters and their backstories. When done well, Biblical fiction points readers to the original story, encouraging careful study of the people and cultures therein. Diana Wallis Taylor’s “Hadassah, Queen Esther of Persia” does just that. Drawing upon the details in Scripture and various historical accounts, Taylor pieces together a stirring account of the unassuming Jewish girl, Hadassah, who would become queen.
Hadassah’s story begins at age eight with the death of her mother, leaving her an orphan. Her older cousin Mordecai and his wife, Jerusha, adopt her and treat her as the daughter they never had. Years later, Hadassah finds herself in King Xerxes’ palace under an edict commanding that all virgins in Persia be taken there to be considered as a potential queen or otherwise consigned to a lifetime in the harem. Hadassah follows Mordecai’s advice to take the name Esther and conceal her Jewish heritage, and Adonai’s plans for her play out as she becomes Queen of Persia.
Seeing Esther’s story come to life in the pages of this novel gives the reader an idea of Persian life from the perspective of both the subordinate Jewish population and the royal family. The uncertain existence and safety of the Jewish people emphasizes Esther’s position both before and especially after becoming queen. In this story, Esther and King Xerxes’ marriage is one of love, adding in some gentle romance and lightheartedness. Intrigue is incredibly rife within the palace, demonstrating the continuing precariousness of Esther’s life despite her position of power. Throughout her life, Esther relies on Adonai’s guidance and provision for her and maintains a wise and compassionate demeanor despite being married to a pagan king and thrust into a world she knows little about.
All of the characters have depth, both the benevolent and the wicked. Esther and later Mordecai seem to have a stabilizing influence on the often capricious King Xerxex. Atossa, the queen mother, is one of my favorite characters. Haman is the character whom everyone loves to hate, but he is not the only villain lurking in the wings. Also, I enjoyed some of the little details that the author included to make the narrative more well-rounded, such as the scene with Esther and the children. My criticisms are trivial; there were editorial errors throughout the book, although I did receive a copy prior to the release date and though it was not marked as an advanced reader’s copy, it may have been, so I am not deducting stars for that. Also, there seemed to me to be a discontinuity in the passage of time. There were time lapses throughout and it seemed as though more time had passed than actually had, particularly once Esther entered the palace. However, this could just be my reading of the story.
“Hadassah” is an inspirational story of what the Biblical Esther’s life may have been like. Trusting in God and following His guidance is paramount, just as it is today. For anyone interested in Biblical fiction, the story of Esther, Christian historical fiction, or women’s historical fiction, this book is a must-read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through CelebrateLit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
Although God is not directly mentioned by name in the Biblical book of Esther, His presence and the manifestation of His power are clearly demonstrated. With any work of Biblical fiction, some liberties are taken in order to offer more details and flesh out characters and their backstories. When done well, Biblical fiction points readers to the original story, encouraging careful study of the people and cultures therein. Diana Wallis Taylor’s “Hadassah, Queen Esther of Persia” does just that. Drawing upon the details in Scripture and various historical accounts, Taylor pieces together a stirring account of the unassuming Jewish girl, Hadassah, who would become queen.
Hadassah’s story begins at age eight with the death of her mother, leaving her an orphan. Her older cousin Mordecai and his wife, Jerusha, adopt her and treat her as the daughter they never had. Years later, Hadassah finds herself in King Xerxes’ palace under an edict commanding that all virgins in Persia be taken there to be considered as a potential queen or otherwise consigned to a lifetime in the harem. Hadassah follows Mordecai’s advice to take the name Esther and conceal her Jewish heritage, and Adonai’s plans for her play out as she becomes Queen of Persia.
Seeing Esther’s story come to life in the pages of this novel gives the reader an idea of Persian life from the perspective of both the subordinate Jewish population and the royal family. The uncertain existence and safety of the Jewish people emphasizes Esther’s position both before and especially after becoming queen. In this story, Esther and King Xerxes’ marriage is one of love, adding in some gentle romance and lightheartedness. Intrigue is incredibly rife within the palace, demonstrating the continuing precariousness of Esther’s life despite her position of power. Throughout her life, Esther relies on Adonai’s guidance and provision for her and maintains a wise and compassionate demeanor despite being married to a pagan king and thrust into a world she knows little about.
All of the characters have depth, both the benevolent and the wicked. Esther and later Mordecai seem to have a stabilizing influence on the often capricious King Xerxex. Atossa, the queen mother, is one of my favorite characters. Haman is the character whom everyone loves to hate, but he is not the only villain lurking in the wings. Also, I enjoyed some of the little details that the author included to make the narrative more well-rounded, such as the scene with Esther and the children. My criticisms are trivial; there were editorial errors throughout the book, although I did receive a copy prior to the release date and though it was not marked as an advanced reader’s copy, it may have been, so I am not deducting stars for that. Also, there seemed to me to be a discontinuity in the passage of time. There were time lapses throughout and it seemed as though more time had passed than actually had, particularly once Esther entered the palace. However, this could just be my reading of the story.
“Hadassah” is an inspirational story of what the Biblical Esther’s life may have been like. Trusting in God and following His guidance is paramount, just as it is today. For anyone interested in Biblical fiction, the story of Esther, Christian historical fiction, or women’s historical fiction, this book is a must-read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through CelebrateLit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
July 10, 2019
We’ve likely all been there at some point. You know what you want for your life, but then it all gets blown to smithereens as God’s plan comes into effect. I feel that’s how Hadassah’s story went. She had dreams of marrying a nice young man, raising a family, and living out her years near Mordecai.
Instead, she becomes Queen, has no children but becomes responsible for saving the Jewish nation. God’s plans are always better than our dreams.
Biblical retellings are always complicated to review, at least for me. I give the author credit for sticking to the Bible’s version of events. I also applaud her use of creativity in filling in the gaps of Hadassah’s early years and her years after saving the Jews. Dianna Wallis Taylor built a lifetime of events for Hadassah, ensuring the reader would not be left with a half-complete story.
That being said, I do wish there was more depth to the characters. I felt feelings were glossed over, or ignored, for the sake of moving forward on the timeline. While I enjoyed the rich details of the surroundings, foods, and journeys, I wish as much detail had gone into showing the motivations and thought processes of Hadassah. God gave Hadassah a mission, but we never see her struggle with the decision. She knows she’s risking her life, she should be terrified. I do have to take notice of her graceful acceptance though. Just because my inner monologue would be frantic doesn’t mean Hadassah felt the same.
I took away a moment of clarity from Hadassah. We are created for a purpose. There is no ‘set it and forget it’ when it comes to God’s plans for our lives. Yes, we have a choice, and Hadassah’s story might seem like she got the raw end of the deal. But give yourself a minute to think about it. She became queen and saved an entire nation of people. Every moment in her life led her to that point.
Diana Wallis Taylor created a beautifully scripted plot of intrigue around a beloved Bible character and offered a story that had me grabbing my Bible in a desire to learn more.
I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Biblical retellings. The writing voice is crisp, strong, and rich with detail. You’ll get lost in the surroundings as you fall in love with her characters.
I requested a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Instead, she becomes Queen, has no children but becomes responsible for saving the Jewish nation. God’s plans are always better than our dreams.
Biblical retellings are always complicated to review, at least for me. I give the author credit for sticking to the Bible’s version of events. I also applaud her use of creativity in filling in the gaps of Hadassah’s early years and her years after saving the Jews. Dianna Wallis Taylor built a lifetime of events for Hadassah, ensuring the reader would not be left with a half-complete story.
That being said, I do wish there was more depth to the characters. I felt feelings were glossed over, or ignored, for the sake of moving forward on the timeline. While I enjoyed the rich details of the surroundings, foods, and journeys, I wish as much detail had gone into showing the motivations and thought processes of Hadassah. God gave Hadassah a mission, but we never see her struggle with the decision. She knows she’s risking her life, she should be terrified. I do have to take notice of her graceful acceptance though. Just because my inner monologue would be frantic doesn’t mean Hadassah felt the same.
I took away a moment of clarity from Hadassah. We are created for a purpose. There is no ‘set it and forget it’ when it comes to God’s plans for our lives. Yes, we have a choice, and Hadassah’s story might seem like she got the raw end of the deal. But give yourself a minute to think about it. She became queen and saved an entire nation of people. Every moment in her life led her to that point.
Diana Wallis Taylor created a beautifully scripted plot of intrigue around a beloved Bible character and offered a story that had me grabbing my Bible in a desire to learn more.
I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Biblical retellings. The writing voice is crisp, strong, and rich with detail. You’ll get lost in the surroundings as you fall in love with her characters.
I requested a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
July 15, 2019
Esther is the Biblical account every little girl that grew up in church knows and the heroine of the Bible we all looked up to with delight and awe of how the Lord used her. With that in mind, I dived into Hadassah ready to read, and while it pains me to say it, I felt so torn on this one. I read our author's book on Lydia and absolutely loved it, so I had high expectations. What excelled in this book is our author's ability to make us feel part of the backdrop. The history included was immense and the culture really showed through in a real way. The way our author used artistic license to tell Esther's story as a child and as a Jewish woman longing for a husband like any normal woman would have been at the time I found to be intriguing, and we really got a look at all of what Esther's life may have looked like combined with what we do know. The way Esther was portrayed was done pretty accurately as well. Incidentally, some of the strengths lend to the books weaknesses. There was too much history and research included to where it felt like it disrupted the story line. Info dumps seemed often, and transitions were abrupt. My biggest issue was the relationship between Xerxes and Esther. Based on this guy's background and manner or finding another wife, I don't see how true love could be part of it. Even if he did love Esther more than others, it is tainted by the concubines, and doesn't seem like a real true love. I will give the author credit in that her author's note at the end made clear she wasn't sure that what was between Xerxes and Esther was true love, she just kind of went with in in artistic license. The relationship seemed only physical as described in the book which I do see as realistic, but the author shows Esther actually falling in love with the guy which I don't see as realistic. When we get to the Biblical account we know, it is presented very quickly and with not many added details, so that seemed kind of anticlimactic. Overall, I saw the high quality of writing our author offers peeking through, but it just didn't come together right for me. However, I recommend this book for those who enjoy Biblical fiction, historical fiction, or fiction with a Biblical purpose.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
July 6, 2019
My Thoughts:
I love historical fiction books. Sometimes the Bible times ones just don’t appeal to me though. They’re great stories but not compelling to me. This book though. I’m in love!
Queen Esther is a staple character in the Bible. Everyone knows who she is and her story. I’d even say that there are a great number of people who know her story who are not Christians. She’s a Jewish heroine as well.
I’ve not seen many accounts of her life outside of the Bible and Veggie Tales. Yes, I’ve seen the Veggie Tales version. Many times actually as it’s one of the approved shows for our children.
Okay, back to the book, I’m getting sidetracked.
This is an amazing read. Hadassah kept me spellbound. I’d never really thought much about the wife of Mordecai or whether they had children of their own. They were just characters in the book that was there to make the story more complete while Esther was the star of the show.
I’ve never really thought so much about Esther’s emotions or how she reacted to all the changes in her life or why Mordecai was her guardian. The background and history of the time period that went into this novel are wonderful. I’m loving learning some new facts that I didn’t know before. Again, history is something I really love and learning new bits of history never disappoints me.
Esther is brought to life in Hadassah. You’re going to want to read this novel. It’s going to captivate you and make you pick up your Bible to read the book of Esther and see where everything lines up. What is fact from the Bible, what is fact from history, and what is a poetic license from the author?
Basically, she writes so well that it could all be fact or fiction because it flows so smoothly. The characters are wonderful and brought to life. I think I’m watching them around me as I’m reading.
Highly recommend this bit of Biblical fiction to all.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I love historical fiction books. Sometimes the Bible times ones just don’t appeal to me though. They’re great stories but not compelling to me. This book though. I’m in love!
Queen Esther is a staple character in the Bible. Everyone knows who she is and her story. I’d even say that there are a great number of people who know her story who are not Christians. She’s a Jewish heroine as well.
I’ve not seen many accounts of her life outside of the Bible and Veggie Tales. Yes, I’ve seen the Veggie Tales version. Many times actually as it’s one of the approved shows for our children.
Okay, back to the book, I’m getting sidetracked.
This is an amazing read. Hadassah kept me spellbound. I’d never really thought much about the wife of Mordecai or whether they had children of their own. They were just characters in the book that was there to make the story more complete while Esther was the star of the show.
I’ve never really thought so much about Esther’s emotions or how she reacted to all the changes in her life or why Mordecai was her guardian. The background and history of the time period that went into this novel are wonderful. I’m loving learning some new facts that I didn’t know before. Again, history is something I really love and learning new bits of history never disappoints me.
Esther is brought to life in Hadassah. You’re going to want to read this novel. It’s going to captivate you and make you pick up your Bible to read the book of Esther and see where everything lines up. What is fact from the Bible, what is fact from history, and what is a poetic license from the author?
Basically, she writes so well that it could all be fact or fiction because it flows so smoothly. The characters are wonderful and brought to life. I think I’m watching them around me as I’m reading.
Highly recommend this bit of Biblical fiction to all.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
July 2, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. I don’t think I have anything truly negative to say about it. I have a few nit picky things. However, I think this book was very well written. It was the perfect mesh of historically accurate and creative freedom.
I am going to start with my nit pick so I can get it out of the way. Esther is one of my favorite books of the bible and I have spent a long time studying this book. Within Hadassah, Taylor took creative liberty with the relationship between Xerxes and Esther. From what the bible says and my studying of the time period, I don’t think their relationship was as whimsical as Taylor tried to make it sound. I think Esther’s first night with the king would have been scarier and I think that she would have had to wait a while before he decided to make her queen. However, I loved that this book emphasized that with God all things are possible. I think that point was made clear and allowed for the creative liberties that were taken to be justified.
I also feel that she rushed the ending. Taylor tried to compile a lot of information in a small window. This is very nit picky, though. I think she truly did the story justice without being long winded.
You know my obsession with characterization. I think this book did a great job. It told us about our characters, their looks and personality, by making it a clear flow within the text. There wasn’t awkward breaks of “this is exposition” or “this is character description”. Those details were highlighted naturally within the narration and the dialogue.
I think that the plot was well developed. There was a cohesive theme that was introduced in the beginning and followed all the way through to the end. I like that the timeline was elongated. I know when I have spent time reading Esther I have thought that it happened in a matter of a few weeks. This book did a great job of putting into detail the years and struggles that Esther experienced.
Final Thoughts-
I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars. I was thoroughly impressed. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes historical fiction.
I am going to start with my nit pick so I can get it out of the way. Esther is one of my favorite books of the bible and I have spent a long time studying this book. Within Hadassah, Taylor took creative liberty with the relationship between Xerxes and Esther. From what the bible says and my studying of the time period, I don’t think their relationship was as whimsical as Taylor tried to make it sound. I think Esther’s first night with the king would have been scarier and I think that she would have had to wait a while before he decided to make her queen. However, I loved that this book emphasized that with God all things are possible. I think that point was made clear and allowed for the creative liberties that were taken to be justified.
I also feel that she rushed the ending. Taylor tried to compile a lot of information in a small window. This is very nit picky, though. I think she truly did the story justice without being long winded.
You know my obsession with characterization. I think this book did a great job. It told us about our characters, their looks and personality, by making it a clear flow within the text. There wasn’t awkward breaks of “this is exposition” or “this is character description”. Those details were highlighted naturally within the narration and the dialogue.
I think that the plot was well developed. There was a cohesive theme that was introduced in the beginning and followed all the way through to the end. I like that the timeline was elongated. I know when I have spent time reading Esther I have thought that it happened in a matter of a few weeks. This book did a great job of putting into detail the years and struggles that Esther experienced.
Final Thoughts-
I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars. I was thoroughly impressed. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes historical fiction.
July 9, 2019
"Hadassah" is an inspirational story about the Biblical Esther's life who grew up to be the queen of Persia. She saved many Jews from being killed by the mean Persian official named Haman. A story about a young Jewish girl, who becomes Queen of Persia. The book begins when she was at the age of eight with the death of her mother leaving her an orphan until her older cousin Mordecai and his wife, Jerusha who ended up adopting her. Years later, Hadassah finds herself in King Xerxes' palace. She is considered as a potential queen or a lifetime in the harem. Hadassah follows Mordecai's advice to take the name of Esther and conceal her Jewish heritage. Adonai's plans for her play out as becomes Queen of Persia. Esther relies on Adonai's guidance.
Diana Wallis Taylor put many aspects from the original Bible story. She made the relationship between Xerxes and Esther more in-depth. There is a cohesive theme from the beginning to the end. Taylor did a great job with explaining the timeline through well thought out details of the years and struggles Esther experienced. There was a good amount of backstory of each character in the book. Esther and King Xerxes' is a marriage of love. Taylor added some gentle romance and warmth. There were a lot more historical and day-to-day details compared to the Biblical story.
The beginning of the book contained many chapters about her childhood and her life was like before becoming a queen. Then it flew through Esther saving people from being killed. Taylor ended the book in a strange abrupt way.
I am not really into Biblical fictions like this book because I find them very boring. I wasn't bored with
"Hadassah" but it isn't on my favorite book list. Taylor did a fine job of telling the story of Esther.
If you are interested in Biblical fiction or a Christian Book Club then this would be a good book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through CelebrateLit and was not required to post a great review. All opinions are my own.
Diana Wallis Taylor put many aspects from the original Bible story. She made the relationship between Xerxes and Esther more in-depth. There is a cohesive theme from the beginning to the end. Taylor did a great job with explaining the timeline through well thought out details of the years and struggles Esther experienced. There was a good amount of backstory of each character in the book. Esther and King Xerxes' is a marriage of love. Taylor added some gentle romance and warmth. There were a lot more historical and day-to-day details compared to the Biblical story.
The beginning of the book contained many chapters about her childhood and her life was like before becoming a queen. Then it flew through Esther saving people from being killed. Taylor ended the book in a strange abrupt way.
I am not really into Biblical fictions like this book because I find them very boring. I wasn't bored with
"Hadassah" but it isn't on my favorite book list. Taylor did a fine job of telling the story of Esther.
If you are interested in Biblical fiction or a Christian Book Club then this would be a good book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through CelebrateLit and was not required to post a great review. All opinions are my own.
March 28, 2025
This one is another solid story from Diana Wallis Taylor. Even though Esther is one of the more popular biblical characters to fictionalize, this account is unique enough to hold its own among the others.
I liked that the author managed to keep things light without shying away from the heavy drama of an ancient almost-genocide. I think a lot of that had to do with Esther's personality here - she was always optimistic, more decisive than emotional, choosing every time to trust God. She read as almost too good to be true. But scripture tells us next to nothing about her as a person - only that she was lovely and beautiful, and she obtained favor in the sight of all who saw her. So while there was certainly more to her than is written here, her character fits with the biblical account.
The historical detail was also blended well into the story. Having studied the history of the Persian Empire, I enjoyed seeing different details brought to life through Esther's eyes.
The "main" part of the story where Esther saves her people begins around the last 50 pages of the book (and was concluded within about 20 pages), which surprised me. Of course Haman is mentioned earlier and he is shrouded in suspicion, but it felt like his edict against the Jews came up really suddenly. By that point in the book, most of the story is told from Esther's POV, so without knowing the surrounding details that we're given in the Bible, it may have seemed sudden to Esther. Who knows? But because it seemed sudden, that part also felt rushed.
I only had one real issue with this book: typos. I could've overlooked a handful, but there were a couple dozen at least. Misspellings, missing or added words (small words, probably to keep the line of text justified), alternate words (like "enfolding" instead of "unfolding")... It was enough that it seemed unprofessional.
Even with the typos, I enjoyed the book and I'd recommend it for fans of biblical fiction.
I liked that the author managed to keep things light without shying away from the heavy drama of an ancient almost-genocide. I think a lot of that had to do with Esther's personality here - she was always optimistic, more decisive than emotional, choosing every time to trust God. She read as almost too good to be true. But scripture tells us next to nothing about her as a person - only that she was lovely and beautiful, and she obtained favor in the sight of all who saw her. So while there was certainly more to her than is written here, her character fits with the biblical account.
The historical detail was also blended well into the story. Having studied the history of the Persian Empire, I enjoyed seeing different details brought to life through Esther's eyes.
The "main" part of the story where Esther saves her people begins around the last 50 pages of the book (and was concluded within about 20 pages), which surprised me. Of course Haman is mentioned earlier and he is shrouded in suspicion, but it felt like his edict against the Jews came up really suddenly. By that point in the book, most of the story is told from Esther's POV, so without knowing the surrounding details that we're given in the Bible, it may have seemed sudden to Esther. Who knows? But because it seemed sudden, that part also felt rushed.
I only had one real issue with this book: typos. I could've overlooked a handful, but there were a couple dozen at least. Misspellings, missing or added words (small words, probably to keep the line of text justified), alternate words (like "enfolding" instead of "unfolding")... It was enough that it seemed unprofessional.
Even with the typos, I enjoyed the book and I'd recommend it for fans of biblical fiction.
July 13, 2019
In a time of rule and whimsy of a king and his advisors, where not even a queen was deemed safe, comes a young orphan Jewish girl who is destined to save her people. Hadassah is an historical retelling of the Biblical book of Esther. I have always enjoyed Esther’s story and of the unseen hand that guides kingdoms and rulers and king’s hearts. Of a more powerful ruler who can make an orphan the most beautiful of all women and change a king’s heart through her.
Author Taylor takes us on Esther’s journey from the time that she is an orphan and fills in some of the missing parts that are not included in her story. I enjoyed the historical context of this story: the wars between the Persians and the Greeks, those famous battles that changed history as well. I couldn’t help but remember another beautiful woman, Helen of Troy, and wondered if she was real or not and how her story was so much different than Esther’s. Like I said, I enjoyed the historical part and I have always had a soft spot for Greece so I am glad the author did her research and included these wars.
Why did King Xerxes make these ridiculous and arbitrary laws and or let his prime minister do this for him? I do not know but all the key characters are in play in this story and Esther does her best to listen and heed the advice of her cousin Mordecai and to love her husband the best that she can in a marriage that was so foreign to her upbringing and in a dangerous time. And the Bible account says the king loved her above all others, so I hope Esther really, truly had experienced love.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Author Taylor takes us on Esther’s journey from the time that she is an orphan and fills in some of the missing parts that are not included in her story. I enjoyed the historical context of this story: the wars between the Persians and the Greeks, those famous battles that changed history as well. I couldn’t help but remember another beautiful woman, Helen of Troy, and wondered if she was real or not and how her story was so much different than Esther’s. Like I said, I enjoyed the historical part and I have always had a soft spot for Greece so I am glad the author did her research and included these wars.
Why did King Xerxes make these ridiculous and arbitrary laws and or let his prime minister do this for him? I do not know but all the key characters are in play in this story and Esther does her best to listen and heed the advice of her cousin Mordecai and to love her husband the best that she can in a marriage that was so foreign to her upbringing and in a dangerous time. And the Bible account says the king loved her above all others, so I hope Esther really, truly had experienced love.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
July 15, 2019
I’ve read several Christian historical novels on the life of Esther, and this book by Diana Wallis Taylor is one of the best that I’ve read. I felt that she got the balance just right. She had historical research that kept the story details in the correct time period; and she made the story reflect Esther as a godly Jewish young woman. Once I started reading this book, I could not read fast enough. I very much appreciate that the author kept this book anchored to the Biblical account of Esther. Keep
I had not given much thought to Esther’s life as an orphan and her relationship to Mordecai, and I loved the family background that the author gave Esther with Mordecai and his wife. This part of the story showed how Esther could have developed her strong character as she grew up in Mordecai’s home.
I felt sorrow for the Jewish young women who were forced to go to the palace and be presented to the king as a potential bride. Their lives after their night with the king could not be lived according to their Jewish faith. The author does not sensationalize this part of the story, but shows how the king loved and delighted in her.
I also have a better grasp on the highly-charged political times in which Esther lived. There was much political intrigue, and Esther had to be circumspect as she lived her life in the palace. Her marriage to such an emotionally unstable monarch was never easy. Even though I knew how the story would turn out, I was almost holding my breath as Esther Esther approached the king in his throne room.
This book honors God and the way He used Esther to save His people. It helped me realize, once again, that God has placed each of us in our unique place to further His kingdom.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I had not given much thought to Esther’s life as an orphan and her relationship to Mordecai, and I loved the family background that the author gave Esther with Mordecai and his wife. This part of the story showed how Esther could have developed her strong character as she grew up in Mordecai’s home.
I felt sorrow for the Jewish young women who were forced to go to the palace and be presented to the king as a potential bride. Their lives after their night with the king could not be lived according to their Jewish faith. The author does not sensationalize this part of the story, but shows how the king loved and delighted in her.
I also have a better grasp on the highly-charged political times in which Esther lived. There was much political intrigue, and Esther had to be circumspect as she lived her life in the palace. Her marriage to such an emotionally unstable monarch was never easy. Even though I knew how the story would turn out, I was almost holding my breath as Esther Esther approached the king in his throne room.
This book honors God and the way He used Esther to save His people. It helped me realize, once again, that God has placed each of us in our unique place to further His kingdom.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
June 28, 2020
The Book of Esther is one of my favorite stories in the Bible. It is a mix of a Cinderella story and a political thriller. In this retelling. Hadassah dreams of marrying Shamir, the rabbi’s son. Her hopes are dashed when she is taken to King Xerxes palace to be a candidate for queen. Hadassah is forced to hide her identity as a Jew and changes her name to Esther. She rises to the position of queen. Esther gradually realizes that her role as queen could save her people from danger.
Hadassah is portrayed as an innocent and reluctant young girl who is forced to enter the king’s harem. Esther’s beauty captivates the king, and he makes her his queen. As queen, there are many duties she has to oversee. She works hard to establish a caring relationship with her step-siblings. The novel also portrays a loving marriage between Esther and King Xerxes.
Hadassah, Queen Esther of Persia has courtly intrigue, romance and religious conflict. The author does an excellent job in fleshing out Queen Esther’s story. She has given the reader a detailed portrait of Hadassah’s origins. One example is how she became an orphan and lived under Uncle Moredecai’s household. I also found it interesting that Moredecai is portrayed as a widower. The author does a fantastic job in weaving the biblical tale with known facts about King Xerxes. By the time the novel is over, the reader feels as if you have come to know King Xerxes and his family. I also thought that Hadassah’s relationship with her mother-in-law Queen Atossa was the best aspect of the novel. The only thing I did not like about the book was the Haman plot seemed very rushed. Still, Hadassah, Queen Esther of Persia is a feast for fans of biblical fiction! Mrs. Taylor has given us another refreshing retelling on one of the Bible’s most enduring heroines!
Hadassah is portrayed as an innocent and reluctant young girl who is forced to enter the king’s harem. Esther’s beauty captivates the king, and he makes her his queen. As queen, there are many duties she has to oversee. She works hard to establish a caring relationship with her step-siblings. The novel also portrays a loving marriage between Esther and King Xerxes.
Hadassah, Queen Esther of Persia has courtly intrigue, romance and religious conflict. The author does an excellent job in fleshing out Queen Esther’s story. She has given the reader a detailed portrait of Hadassah’s origins. One example is how she became an orphan and lived under Uncle Moredecai’s household. I also found it interesting that Moredecai is portrayed as a widower. The author does a fantastic job in weaving the biblical tale with known facts about King Xerxes. By the time the novel is over, the reader feels as if you have come to know King Xerxes and his family. I also thought that Hadassah’s relationship with her mother-in-law Queen Atossa was the best aspect of the novel. The only thing I did not like about the book was the Haman plot seemed very rushed. Still, Hadassah, Queen Esther of Persia is a feast for fans of biblical fiction! Mrs. Taylor has given us another refreshing retelling on one of the Bible’s most enduring heroines!
July 8, 2019
One of the great heroines of the Old Testament, Hadassah was a beautiful, graceful young woman who put her faith in God and her guardian, her cousin Mordecai.
She dreams of marrying Shamir, a tall, handsome, studious young man who is the rabbi’s son. Her heart beats faster when she hears the sound of his deep voice as he reads the Torah. And she hopes that he will visit Mordecai soon to present a betrothal request. Then, an upheaval in King Xerxes’s palace changes everything. Queen Vashti has been banished and an edict goes out for all qualified young virgins throughout the empire to be taken to the palace as he searches for a new queen. Fear strikes in the hearts of many, including Mordecai, as he realizes Hadassah will be taken. To hide her identity as a Jew, he tells her to go by the name of Esther. Since he works as a record-keeper at the king’s gates, he can keep tabs on how she is doing. Hadassah: Queen Esther of Persia imagines what life was like for the woman who saved her people—and perhaps found love in the process.
The author has done an amazing amount of research for this book. She has brought new life to the Biblical book of Esther. This informative and entertaining novel will touch the hearts of many readers.
I enjoyed this novel greatly, as it did open my eyes to the customs and the history that was custom during that time. The author gives the reader an interesting and accurate look into the book of Esther, from the Jewish viewpoint. It brings the reader into the life of a young Jewish girl in the reign of King Xerxes. I truly enjoyed this book, that teaches us about Gods providence, prayer and trust in God.
This is a read that I highly recommend.
She dreams of marrying Shamir, a tall, handsome, studious young man who is the rabbi’s son. Her heart beats faster when she hears the sound of his deep voice as he reads the Torah. And she hopes that he will visit Mordecai soon to present a betrothal request. Then, an upheaval in King Xerxes’s palace changes everything. Queen Vashti has been banished and an edict goes out for all qualified young virgins throughout the empire to be taken to the palace as he searches for a new queen. Fear strikes in the hearts of many, including Mordecai, as he realizes Hadassah will be taken. To hide her identity as a Jew, he tells her to go by the name of Esther. Since he works as a record-keeper at the king’s gates, he can keep tabs on how she is doing. Hadassah: Queen Esther of Persia imagines what life was like for the woman who saved her people—and perhaps found love in the process.
The author has done an amazing amount of research for this book. She has brought new life to the Biblical book of Esther. This informative and entertaining novel will touch the hearts of many readers.
I enjoyed this novel greatly, as it did open my eyes to the customs and the history that was custom during that time. The author gives the reader an interesting and accurate look into the book of Esther, from the Jewish viewpoint. It brings the reader into the life of a young Jewish girl in the reign of King Xerxes. I truly enjoyed this book, that teaches us about Gods providence, prayer and trust in God.
This is a read that I highly recommend.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews