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Dividing Sword
In a time when Rome rules the world and the people are crying out for a savior, a revolutionary rabbi walks the land, dividing families and faith. A Pharisee disciple will do whatever it takes to secure his future, even betray those he loves. A young woman longs for peace and safety, but her heart pulls her far from home. What are they willing to give up for their faith?
From the temperamental Sea of Galilee to the tinder-box that is Jerusalem, this journey through Matthew's gospel will sweep you into the first-century world. Witness the epic events of the gospel with all its wonder and conflict. See Jesus through the eyes of a woman and a Pharisee.
Beth believes Jesus offers healing and hope, but his plan for her husband rises like the waves of the sea to wash away her dreams for the future. Afraid of being left behind, she chases after her husband Peter, but in traveling with Jesus she finds more questions than answers. As her husband pursues the Nazarene with his whole heart and her cousin's bitterness towards Jesus grows, she wonders, what place can a woman have in the coming kingdom?
Reuben believes the way to a restored Israel is through careful obedience to law and tradition, and Jesus of Nazareth is challenging tradition at every turn. Under the watchful eye of his secretive rabbi, Reuben hopes he can rise above obscurity and take his place as a leader among men, but a disastrous confrontation with the Nazarene threatens to destroy his budding career. When his dreams collide with the people he loves, is he willing to do what it takes?
“Powerful, imaginative, stirring! Get ready for a unique, substantive, and emotional journey down a stream that flows cleverly from, around, and through the Gospel of Matthew" —Gary D. Collier (Ph.D.), Director of the Institute for the Art of Biblical Conversation
“This well-written book provides insight and reading pleasure. Even though we know the story, each chapter brings a new surprise. Hamel takes the abbreviated account in the Gospel and expands it using the knowledge we have about ancient Palestinian culture.” —Rev. Richard Davies (Ph.D.), Dean Emeritus, Martin University
From the temperamental Sea of Galilee to the tinder-box that is Jerusalem, this journey through Matthew's gospel will sweep you into the first-century world. Witness the epic events of the gospel with all its wonder and conflict. See Jesus through the eyes of a woman and a Pharisee.
Beth believes Jesus offers healing and hope, but his plan for her husband rises like the waves of the sea to wash away her dreams for the future. Afraid of being left behind, she chases after her husband Peter, but in traveling with Jesus she finds more questions than answers. As her husband pursues the Nazarene with his whole heart and her cousin's bitterness towards Jesus grows, she wonders, what place can a woman have in the coming kingdom?
Reuben believes the way to a restored Israel is through careful obedience to law and tradition, and Jesus of Nazareth is challenging tradition at every turn. Under the watchful eye of his secretive rabbi, Reuben hopes he can rise above obscurity and take his place as a leader among men, but a disastrous confrontation with the Nazarene threatens to destroy his budding career. When his dreams collide with the people he loves, is he willing to do what it takes?
“Powerful, imaginative, stirring! Get ready for a unique, substantive, and emotional journey down a stream that flows cleverly from, around, and through the Gospel of Matthew" —Gary D. Collier (Ph.D.), Director of the Institute for the Art of Biblical Conversation
“This well-written book provides insight and reading pleasure. Even though we know the story, each chapter brings a new surprise. Hamel takes the abbreviated account in the Gospel and expands it using the knowledge we have about ancient Palestinian culture.” —Rev. Richard Davies (Ph.D.), Dean Emeritus, Martin University
Paperback
First published January 1, 2020
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About the author
Katrina D. Hamel
6 books83 followersKatrina is a follower of Jesus, a wife, a mom of four, and a Biblical Fiction author. She writes with a passion for New Testament History, especially first-century women.
When she's not lost beneath stacks of research, she's consuming copious amounts of coffee and good books.
When she's not lost beneath stacks of research, she's consuming copious amounts of coffee and good books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
July 3, 2019
Dividing Sword is a book within the Biblical Fiction genre well worth picking up because of its fascinating portrayal of Beth, Peter’s wife, and Reuben, a Pharisee.
Plot
This book does a wonderful job of incorporating Biblical history from the book of Matthew with the plot of Beth and Reuben. There is a seamless transition between direct events in the Bible and the fictional events of the author. It was so clear that I was engrossed as I continued reading, having a hard time stopping as I continued to the epic conclusion.
Characters
This is where the book really shines because Beth and Reuben’s character arcs are engrossing. Beth, who is afraid of everything, including confrontation, has to deal with a husband who is impulsive. She has to learn how to trust Jesus and if she can, especially when Jesus states that any who follow him must take up a cross, a horrible symbol. Reuben, on the other hand, greatly desires approval and status. Not receiving it from his own family, he seeks it among the Pharisees. The conclusion to this book is absolutely compelling.
Setting
This is during the Roman Empire, at the time of Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection. The author does a wonderful job of accurately displaying the historical life and times of Jesus. She also is amazing at portraying Jewish life and how it is to be a Jewish woman during this time. Her knowledge of Pharisaical tradition and the division between the Sanhedrin is very compelling. All of this creates a landscape that enriches the story.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
I give this book a four point five out of five rating because I absolutely loved it. The book perfectly wove plot, characters, and setting together for awesome Biblical fiction. I only have one small caveat, and that is this: I didn’t like the last chapter of the book. Why? Well, I will have to get spoilers, so WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD:
Reuben is saved during the last chapter of the book. Some people would like that. I didn’t, because the author spent the majority of the book driving in Reuben’s negative character arc, only to reverse it in one chapter. I also am a firm believer in the fact that not everyone in a Christian fiction book needs to be saved. However, if the author chose to make Reuben’s redemption an entirely new book, I would happily accept it. So, my complaint is that it was such a small character arc, condensed into one chapter, that seemed thrust in there suddenly. However, it is a SMALL complaint. Everything else makes this book so powerful that is hard for me to complain about it.
Read this book. Seriously. It will make you want to grab your Bible and start reading Matthew again.
Plot
This book does a wonderful job of incorporating Biblical history from the book of Matthew with the plot of Beth and Reuben. There is a seamless transition between direct events in the Bible and the fictional events of the author. It was so clear that I was engrossed as I continued reading, having a hard time stopping as I continued to the epic conclusion.
Characters
This is where the book really shines because Beth and Reuben’s character arcs are engrossing. Beth, who is afraid of everything, including confrontation, has to deal with a husband who is impulsive. She has to learn how to trust Jesus and if she can, especially when Jesus states that any who follow him must take up a cross, a horrible symbol. Reuben, on the other hand, greatly desires approval and status. Not receiving it from his own family, he seeks it among the Pharisees. The conclusion to this book is absolutely compelling.
Setting
This is during the Roman Empire, at the time of Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection. The author does a wonderful job of accurately displaying the historical life and times of Jesus. She also is amazing at portraying Jewish life and how it is to be a Jewish woman during this time. Her knowledge of Pharisaical tradition and the division between the Sanhedrin is very compelling. All of this creates a landscape that enriches the story.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
I give this book a four point five out of five rating because I absolutely loved it. The book perfectly wove plot, characters, and setting together for awesome Biblical fiction. I only have one small caveat, and that is this: I didn’t like the last chapter of the book. Why? Well, I will have to get spoilers, so WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD:
Reuben is saved during the last chapter of the book. Some people would like that. I didn’t, because the author spent the majority of the book driving in Reuben’s negative character arc, only to reverse it in one chapter. I also am a firm believer in the fact that not everyone in a Christian fiction book needs to be saved. However, if the author chose to make Reuben’s redemption an entirely new book, I would happily accept it. So, my complaint is that it was such a small character arc, condensed into one chapter, that seemed thrust in there suddenly. However, it is a SMALL complaint. Everything else makes this book so powerful that is hard for me to complain about it.
Read this book. Seriously. It will make you want to grab your Bible and start reading Matthew again.
October 14, 2020
Dividing Sword is a fictional story based on the Gospel of Matthew as told from the viewpoint of Beth, wife of Peter, and Reuben, her cousin, a religious scholar, and an opponent of Jesus. It's obvious that the author did an incredible amount of research into the culture that the story is set in. I loved reading this story and imagining what it would be like to travel with Jesus. I also gained a deeper appreciation for both the privileges and the sacrifices that the early followers of Jesus experienced. Beautifully written. I highly recommend this book.
March 30, 2019
This rich third-person account of the ministry of Jesus will have you enthralled as you walk through the pages of history with Beth, Peter, Reuben and their contemporaries. You will be caught up in their exciting lives, finding yourself walking along the streets of Bethany and Jerusalem, climbing the Mount of Olives, and setting sail on the Sea of Galilee. A must-read for anyone who wants to know more about the lives of Jesus and His followers, for those who are seekers, or for anyone who simply enjoys a really good book. This first novel of Katrina D. Hamel is a winner.
August 7, 2021
This is the first physical copy of a book I have bought in years! I loved this story so much that I ordered a paperback solely so I could lend it out.
🗡Dividing Sword tops my list of books read this year--maybe the last several years! It took me a couple of chapters to get into it, but once I got started, I found myself dying to know what happens next, though I know generally what happens next since I've gone to church my whole life and have a degree in Bible and Theology, it still hooked me. The author has woven biblical text with gripping, emotional storytelling and original characters without adding substance to the words of Jesus himself. How she fit it all together amazed me and kept me reading voraciously. An immense amount of research went into the creation of this novel. It feels like something that just happened, it's so real!
⚔The two main characters were well chosen: a female disciple and a cousin training to become a Pharisee. The shy, reserved heroine might not be everyone's cup of tea, but the author faces the challenge of preserving the original story while still giving us an observers' thoughts and feelings, and she does an excellent job of balancing the two. Beth's choices are very believable and accurate to the period. Questions you never knew you had find answers in the dialogue, and the narrative fills in many historical details that give helpful context to the biblical account. I cannot recommend this book enough, and I will pass it around and make all my friends read it. If you liked The Nativity, you will love Dividing Sword. A heart-rending, emotional roller-coaster. You will need tissues. Rated for adults due to graphic descriptions of crucifixions.
🗡Dividing Sword tops my list of books read this year--maybe the last several years! It took me a couple of chapters to get into it, but once I got started, I found myself dying to know what happens next, though I know generally what happens next since I've gone to church my whole life and have a degree in Bible and Theology, it still hooked me. The author has woven biblical text with gripping, emotional storytelling and original characters without adding substance to the words of Jesus himself. How she fit it all together amazed me and kept me reading voraciously. An immense amount of research went into the creation of this novel. It feels like something that just happened, it's so real!
⚔The two main characters were well chosen: a female disciple and a cousin training to become a Pharisee. The shy, reserved heroine might not be everyone's cup of tea, but the author faces the challenge of preserving the original story while still giving us an observers' thoughts and feelings, and she does an excellent job of balancing the two. Beth's choices are very believable and accurate to the period. Questions you never knew you had find answers in the dialogue, and the narrative fills in many historical details that give helpful context to the biblical account. I cannot recommend this book enough, and I will pass it around and make all my friends read it. If you liked The Nativity, you will love Dividing Sword. A heart-rending, emotional roller-coaster. You will need tissues. Rated for adults due to graphic descriptions of crucifixions.
April 15, 2024
I really enjoyed reading “Dividing Sword” by Katrina D Hamel, a biblical fiction book which covers the events in the Gospel of Matthew.
In it we are introduced to Beth, the wife of Peter who becomes one of Jesus’ disciples. We know nothing about Peter’s wife, not even her name, in the Bible. So, Katrina writes imaginatively about this woman, about her childhood, how she becomes Peter’s wife and how she stands by him when he takes up Jesus’ invitation to “Follow me”, and how she too, in time, becomes one of Jesus’ devoted followers.
Another character the author created is Reuben, Beth’s cousin and childhood friend. He becomes a student to Simeon, a Pharisee, and from the time Jesus is made known to the people, Beth and Reuben are divided in their opinion of Jesus. Reuben stands against Jesus, like many of the Pharisees and religious leaders. The division between Beth and her cousin causes them much pain, to put it mildly.
Katrina brings other minor characters in the book of Matthew to life, such as the Centurian who asked Jesus to heal his servant, and Jairus, whose daughter Jesus raised to life.
I found her description of crucifixion, particularly Jesus’ and the torture he endured particularly poignant.
Katrina has obviously spent time researching the Jewish culture, their customs, and their religion as well as the geographical setting. This definitely comes across in her writing and makes for a better reading experience.
I recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of biblical fiction, and would suggest it be read over the Lent/Easter period to remind the reader of all that Jesus endured for our sakes. Sometimes we can become complacent and can take what Jesus did for us for granted. This book helps to bring a fresh perspective to our understanding of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. Of course, you don’t need to wait until Easter to begin reading it!
In it we are introduced to Beth, the wife of Peter who becomes one of Jesus’ disciples. We know nothing about Peter’s wife, not even her name, in the Bible. So, Katrina writes imaginatively about this woman, about her childhood, how she becomes Peter’s wife and how she stands by him when he takes up Jesus’ invitation to “Follow me”, and how she too, in time, becomes one of Jesus’ devoted followers.
Another character the author created is Reuben, Beth’s cousin and childhood friend. He becomes a student to Simeon, a Pharisee, and from the time Jesus is made known to the people, Beth and Reuben are divided in their opinion of Jesus. Reuben stands against Jesus, like many of the Pharisees and religious leaders. The division between Beth and her cousin causes them much pain, to put it mildly.
Katrina brings other minor characters in the book of Matthew to life, such as the Centurian who asked Jesus to heal his servant, and Jairus, whose daughter Jesus raised to life.
I found her description of crucifixion, particularly Jesus’ and the torture he endured particularly poignant.
Katrina has obviously spent time researching the Jewish culture, their customs, and their religion as well as the geographical setting. This definitely comes across in her writing and makes for a better reading experience.
I recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of biblical fiction, and would suggest it be read over the Lent/Easter period to remind the reader of all that Jesus endured for our sakes. Sometimes we can become complacent and can take what Jesus did for us for granted. This book helps to bring a fresh perspective to our understanding of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. Of course, you don’t need to wait until Easter to begin reading it!
November 11, 2025
3.5/5⭐️
Dividing Sword by Katrina D. Hamel sweeps you through a retelling of Matthew’s gospel, told from the lens of Beth, an imaginative portrayal of Peter’s wife (of whom veryyy little is spoken of in the Bible). The book starts off with a young Beth and her childhood best friend and cousin Reuben. It also introduces the cross and ravens early on, together a terrifying symbol to the children and a dark foreshadowing of the fate to come. The author takes us on a journey as the two characters go through different stages, each one towing their own path as the character Jesus comes to limelight. Reuben becomes a Pharisee while Beth settles into a traditional role as a wife to a fisherman, leading a quiet life until her husband drops everything to follow this Jesus.
Beth is fearful and timid, an anxious worrier who thinks a lot and borrows worries while Reuben is an odd duck, the only one who preferred the comfort of scrolls and learning to the coarse labor of fishing. The limits of their convictions and characters are stretched and tested through the course of the story and it’s interesting to watch.
The story is lengthy as it tries to cover all the significant events in the book of Matthew and we see firsthand how Jesus’ ministry brings a division among family, religious leaders and even the common people, with those that accepted him on one hand and others who only viewed him with suspicion and altogether rejected him.
To summarise, the plot was sufficiently engaging and the character development was very good. Although, there were some scenes and portions where I felt like the author could have dwelt a bit more on the description so it could have a bigger impact on the readers. Honestly, I would say I definitely preferred the author’s Court of the Tetrarch series but all in all, this was a good read.
Dividing Sword by Katrina D. Hamel sweeps you through a retelling of Matthew’s gospel, told from the lens of Beth, an imaginative portrayal of Peter’s wife (of whom veryyy little is spoken of in the Bible). The book starts off with a young Beth and her childhood best friend and cousin Reuben. It also introduces the cross and ravens early on, together a terrifying symbol to the children and a dark foreshadowing of the fate to come. The author takes us on a journey as the two characters go through different stages, each one towing their own path as the character Jesus comes to limelight. Reuben becomes a Pharisee while Beth settles into a traditional role as a wife to a fisherman, leading a quiet life until her husband drops everything to follow this Jesus.
Beth is fearful and timid, an anxious worrier who thinks a lot and borrows worries while Reuben is an odd duck, the only one who preferred the comfort of scrolls and learning to the coarse labor of fishing. The limits of their convictions and characters are stretched and tested through the course of the story and it’s interesting to watch.
The story is lengthy as it tries to cover all the significant events in the book of Matthew and we see firsthand how Jesus’ ministry brings a division among family, religious leaders and even the common people, with those that accepted him on one hand and others who only viewed him with suspicion and altogether rejected him.
To summarise, the plot was sufficiently engaging and the character development was very good. Although, there were some scenes and portions where I felt like the author could have dwelt a bit more on the description so it could have a bigger impact on the readers. Honestly, I would say I definitely preferred the author’s Court of the Tetrarch series but all in all, this was a good read.
June 5, 2019
When I finished Dividing Sword late last night, I knew I had to write about it. Books like that are not written every day.
Through its pages, I was completely transported to a time and place where Rome oppressed and a rebellious young prophet proclaimed an imminent kingdom of heaven. I can't imagine ever reading the gospel of Matthew in the same light again. It's as though I was witness to Christ's ministry here on earth and now, more than ever, it's part of my story too.
I can't recall an author ever making me so acutely aware of what her characters were feeling. And I wasn't just aware; I was feeling the feelings too.
I felt Beth's trepidation as she wrestled between choosing a life of safety at home and taking up her cross (potentially quite literally) to follow Jesus and be part of something extraordinary.
I could feel Peter's frustration when his outspoken questions only left him with more questions.
I could feel Reuben's jealousy towards Jesus. Afterall, he was the prestigious Pharisee. He was the one with the education and the clout. Yet Jesus was the one with a mob of followers. Jesus was the one on whose every word they clung.
And I could feel Jesus' righteous indignation at the money changers and merchants who had set up shop in the temple courts, making a mockery of the house of God. When He flipped those tables with fire in His eyes, I flipped them too.
I do not want you to miss this book. Katrina Hamel's debut novel Dividing Sword is a gem and I was so blessed by the gift she's been given.
Through its pages, I was completely transported to a time and place where Rome oppressed and a rebellious young prophet proclaimed an imminent kingdom of heaven. I can't imagine ever reading the gospel of Matthew in the same light again. It's as though I was witness to Christ's ministry here on earth and now, more than ever, it's part of my story too.
I can't recall an author ever making me so acutely aware of what her characters were feeling. And I wasn't just aware; I was feeling the feelings too.
I felt Beth's trepidation as she wrestled between choosing a life of safety at home and taking up her cross (potentially quite literally) to follow Jesus and be part of something extraordinary.
I could feel Peter's frustration when his outspoken questions only left him with more questions.
I could feel Reuben's jealousy towards Jesus. Afterall, he was the prestigious Pharisee. He was the one with the education and the clout. Yet Jesus was the one with a mob of followers. Jesus was the one on whose every word they clung.
And I could feel Jesus' righteous indignation at the money changers and merchants who had set up shop in the temple courts, making a mockery of the house of God. When He flipped those tables with fire in His eyes, I flipped them too.
I do not want you to miss this book. Katrina Hamel's debut novel Dividing Sword is a gem and I was so blessed by the gift she's been given.
January 31, 2021
Wow!
I loved this story. The author encourages you from the preface to go and read Matthew, which this story is based on, to check facts and to also go and have grow in your faith. This book walks you through a fictional story of Matthew. Lots of familiar names from the Bible, and an inside look at what it was like to be married to a disciple, and an inside look at what it was like to be a disciple of a Pharisee.
I love how well known parables were used, as well as different people who were healed were put into the book. I also was very impressed at how Katrina D Hamel was able to take some of the teachings of Jesus and have the disciples, of Jesus and of the Pharisee, discover the some of the teachings from Matthew on their own. For example, Reuben discovered some of the values Jesus taught just from listening but Jesus not actually saying them. Katrina D Hamel has a great way of weaving a story and letting us see what life was like back then. The research that went into this book was amazing and I learned a lot about the exact way the Passover meal and the traditions (like the 4 cups) was carried out. I also liked how she put in the Psalm that describes the crucifixion was added in.
I liked reading this book so much, I loved a different look at Matthew and reading it through the eyes of the people who traveled with Jesus and those who opposed them. I do highly recommend this book!
I loved this story. The author encourages you from the preface to go and read Matthew, which this story is based on, to check facts and to also go and have grow in your faith. This book walks you through a fictional story of Matthew. Lots of familiar names from the Bible, and an inside look at what it was like to be married to a disciple, and an inside look at what it was like to be a disciple of a Pharisee.
I love how well known parables were used, as well as different people who were healed were put into the book. I also was very impressed at how Katrina D Hamel was able to take some of the teachings of Jesus and have the disciples, of Jesus and of the Pharisee, discover the some of the teachings from Matthew on their own. For example, Reuben discovered some of the values Jesus taught just from listening but Jesus not actually saying them. Katrina D Hamel has a great way of weaving a story and letting us see what life was like back then. The research that went into this book was amazing and I learned a lot about the exact way the Passover meal and the traditions (like the 4 cups) was carried out. I also liked how she put in the Psalm that describes the crucifixion was added in.
I liked reading this book so much, I loved a different look at Matthew and reading it through the eyes of the people who traveled with Jesus and those who opposed them. I do highly recommend this book!
April 12, 2020
5 Things from Dividing Sword by @katrinadhamel
1) Beth, the simple wife of a fisherman longs for the comfort of home and ends up leaving all to follow Jesus
2) Her cousin, Rueben, trains to be a pharasee and can only see how Jesus goes against the traditions.
3)Jesus uses what His disciples offer and magnifies thier faith into miracles time and again.
4) Determination to escape his father's oppressive hand, Rueben seeks approval of his high ranking rabbi, and seeks for ways to turn Jesus' miracles against him.
5) "Hatred for Jesus was like an overturned inkpot in Reuben's heart, coating everything, and he didn't trouble to mop it up"
This is the perfect read for this season. The days may be dark, much like the darkness the disciples felt after Jesus was crucified, but Sunday is coming! There is hope!
This is an impressive debut from Katrina D. Hamel. I also recommend her series of short stories and devotional thoughts, As the Stars. She has presented familiar stories with such clarity and has organized the events of the Bible in such a way as to bring the stories alive.
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#Biblicalfiction #dividingsword #Easter2020 ##heisrisen #Biblicalfictionauthor #Inspiredbookchallenge ##easterressurection #alwaysreading #bookreview #Christianauthor #bookstagram #booklover ##peterthedisciple #amediting #walkingonwater #newtestament
1) Beth, the simple wife of a fisherman longs for the comfort of home and ends up leaving all to follow Jesus
2) Her cousin, Rueben, trains to be a pharasee and can only see how Jesus goes against the traditions.
3)Jesus uses what His disciples offer and magnifies thier faith into miracles time and again.
4) Determination to escape his father's oppressive hand, Rueben seeks approval of his high ranking rabbi, and seeks for ways to turn Jesus' miracles against him.
5) "Hatred for Jesus was like an overturned inkpot in Reuben's heart, coating everything, and he didn't trouble to mop it up"
This is the perfect read for this season. The days may be dark, much like the darkness the disciples felt after Jesus was crucified, but Sunday is coming! There is hope!
This is an impressive debut from Katrina D. Hamel. I also recommend her series of short stories and devotional thoughts, As the Stars. She has presented familiar stories with such clarity and has organized the events of the Bible in such a way as to bring the stories alive.
.
.
.
.
.
#Biblicalfiction #dividingsword #Easter2020 ##heisrisen #Biblicalfictionauthor #Inspiredbookchallenge ##easterressurection #alwaysreading #bookreview #Christianauthor #bookstagram #booklover ##peterthedisciple #amediting #walkingonwater #newtestament
October 8, 2022
Interesting Possibilities
Interesting in the possibilities being laid out in black print as to what part the wife of Peter played in Jesus'ministry alongside her husband Peter.
It seemed strange to me the first time that I heard Peter was married because she was never mentioned in all of his impulsiveness. Most wives have quite a bit to say about their husband's impulsiveness, especially when it is so blatantly awful. She is not mentioned. Her mother is mentioned because she was healed by Jesus. But, even at this, Peter's wife is still not mentioned.
I don't know anything about her but found myself beginning to wonder where she was in the scripture stories and what she would have been like.
Not all of her exploits in this novel are likely but it was fun to read and imagine as if they were.
Entertaining. Imaginative.
Interesting in the possibilities being laid out in black print as to what part the wife of Peter played in Jesus'ministry alongside her husband Peter.
It seemed strange to me the first time that I heard Peter was married because she was never mentioned in all of his impulsiveness. Most wives have quite a bit to say about their husband's impulsiveness, especially when it is so blatantly awful. She is not mentioned. Her mother is mentioned because she was healed by Jesus. But, even at this, Peter's wife is still not mentioned.
I don't know anything about her but found myself beginning to wonder where she was in the scripture stories and what she would have been like.
Not all of her exploits in this novel are likely but it was fun to read and imagine as if they were.
Entertaining. Imaginative.
January 3, 2024
A story of Jesus taken wholly and solely from the Gospel of Matthew. Peter has a wife, because at one point Jesus healed Peter's mothier-in-law, but no mention is made of the wife herself. The author has created a fictitious version of Peter's wife, and the story has her as its center for the observation of the impact Jesus had on His life on earth. Marcus the Centurion has a more expanded role than in scripture, but not an illogical one. Peter, as Beth's husband, has the lion's share of attention given to the disciples. As with any historical fiction novel, liberties are taken but none I can find that impact the integrity of Matthew's gospel.
The book seems to drag a little here and there, especially as Beth's anxiety disorder is probed, but this may be helpful for believers who suffer the same thing.
The book seems to drag a little here and there, especially as Beth's anxiety disorder is probed, but this may be helpful for believers who suffer the same thing.
December 8, 2022
an excellent retelling of the apostle Peter’s life and of Jesus’ life, death, resurrection
Ms. Hamel brings to life the ancient story of Jesus’ ministry and of the “ sword“ that following Jesus would bring. She brings to life a woman named Beth, who, as Peter‘s wife, works through her fears and finally finds relief and strength in her faith in Jesus. Her childhood friend Ruben believes he is following God by persecuting Christians. This is an authentic retelling of the early church and of the lives and faith of the early believers and how faith in Jesus can change their lives as He does ours today.
Ms. Hamel brings to life the ancient story of Jesus’ ministry and of the “ sword“ that following Jesus would bring. She brings to life a woman named Beth, who, as Peter‘s wife, works through her fears and finally finds relief and strength in her faith in Jesus. Her childhood friend Ruben believes he is following God by persecuting Christians. This is an authentic retelling of the early church and of the lives and faith of the early believers and how faith in Jesus can change their lives as He does ours today.
March 9, 2024
Mooi verhaal gebaseerd op het Evangelie van Mattheus. Het wordt verteld vanuit Beth, de echtgenote van Petrus die het lastig vindt om te kiezen tussen de veiligheid van haar huis en het onzekere leven als volgeling van Jezus, zoals haar man heeft gekozen, en vanuit haar neef Reuben, een jongeman vol ambitie die maar een ding wil, een carriere in de tempel in Jeruzalem en die als Farizeeër zich lijnrecht tegenover Jezus en de zijnen opstelt.
Ik miste een paar geliefde momenten uit het Evangelie van Mattheus en ik had graag wat meer uitleg door Jezus zelf gezien, maar over het algemeen was dit een meeslepend en ontroerend verhaal dat veel details geeft over het leven in die tijd.
Ik miste een paar geliefde momenten uit het Evangelie van Mattheus en ik had graag wat meer uitleg door Jezus zelf gezien, maar over het algemeen was dit een meeslepend en ontroerend verhaal dat veel details geeft over het leven in die tijd.
July 29, 2021
This was a wonderful, scriptural portrayal!
Many people like the Chosen. I do not because it deviates from scripture with disastrous consequences, having people concocting false doctrines based on the tv show. This book is exactly how the Chosen should have been. Excellent writing, excellent adherence to scripture and just overwhelmingly excellent in every way. I didn’t come across any theological flaws and that is hard to do in my book. The author honestly impressed me.
Many people like the Chosen. I do not because it deviates from scripture with disastrous consequences, having people concocting false doctrines based on the tv show. This book is exactly how the Chosen should have been. Excellent writing, excellent adherence to scripture and just overwhelmingly excellent in every way. I didn’t come across any theological flaws and that is hard to do in my book. The author honestly impressed me.
March 4, 2022
Matthew realized.
The Dividing Sword is an eloquently written book that transcends the limits of ones imagination and carries one into the depth of the world of the book of Matthew. The author uses her skills of research and brings the story alive, so much so that a person might even question if what she has written could be true, possibly. I felt as though I was actually witnessing Jesus and His disciples as they lived their lives. I highly recommend this book to readers.
The Dividing Sword is an eloquently written book that transcends the limits of ones imagination and carries one into the depth of the world of the book of Matthew. The author uses her skills of research and brings the story alive, so much so that a person might even question if what she has written could be true, possibly. I felt as though I was actually witnessing Jesus and His disciples as they lived their lives. I highly recommend this book to readers.
May 23, 2022
Loved, loved, loved this book!
This was well written and very accurate. I was transported back to the first century. The descriptions were phenomenal. I felt like an interloper in this story as if I watched everything unfold hidden behind a tree. It stirred my soul and sent me from the story in search of more knowledge and my thirst was unquenchable in the pursuit of that knowledge.
This was well written and very accurate. I was transported back to the first century. The descriptions were phenomenal. I felt like an interloper in this story as if I watched everything unfold hidden behind a tree. It stirred my soul and sent me from the story in search of more knowledge and my thirst was unquenchable in the pursuit of that knowledge.
July 3, 2024
A truly heart-moving experience
The author has beautifully described the story of the life and times of Jesus' earthly journey among us. The characters are vividly alive as they walk and live out Jesus' teachings of love and forgiveness. The description of the resurrection of Jesus is the most beautiful I have experienced in a historical novel. Well worth every hour of reading.
The author has beautifully described the story of the life and times of Jesus' earthly journey among us. The characters are vividly alive as they walk and live out Jesus' teachings of love and forgiveness. The description of the resurrection of Jesus is the most beautiful I have experienced in a historical novel. Well worth every hour of reading.
August 31, 2019
Captivating and thought-provoking novel based on the Gospel of Matthew. I loved the main characters who grew up as cousins and best friends. The journey of their lives provided new insight into what other people might have felt and experienced during Jesus’ time of ministry and death and resurrection.
June 19, 2020
Beth wife of Peter
This is mostly a story of Peters wife Beth. Through her eyes we watch her come to Jesus the Messiah.
Such a wonderful story full of scripture. The sorrowful crucifixion of Jesus. His resurrection. His following.
This book brought many tears. I love our Messiah!
This is mostly a story of Peters wife Beth. Through her eyes we watch her come to Jesus the Messiah.
Such a wonderful story full of scripture. The sorrowful crucifixion of Jesus. His resurrection. His following.
This book brought many tears. I love our Messiah!
June 28, 2020
A tale during the time of Christ, this story is filled with heartache. Don't go into it expecting to read a happily ever after story, but instead of an experience of a faith journey.
This story of Peter's wife is fascinating, although somewhat gruesome in places. It gives you a sense of what they may have experienced in those times.
This story of Peter's wife is fascinating, although somewhat gruesome in places. It gives you a sense of what they may have experienced in those times.
December 15, 2021
The Never-ending Story
This is a work of fiction, but it's foundation is the Gospel contained in God's inherent Word, the Bible. The author faithfully recounts Jesus Christ's life on Earth, in a compelling way, by making the Gospel more accessible to those unable to fully grasp the truth and beauty contained therein.
This is a work of fiction, but it's foundation is the Gospel contained in God's inherent Word, the Bible. The author faithfully recounts Jesus Christ's life on Earth, in a compelling way, by making the Gospel more accessible to those unable to fully grasp the truth and beauty contained therein.
June 19, 2022
Story of Jesus
Jesus said that to follow Him would divide families. Beth, as Peter's wife, chose to follow the Messiah. Her best childhood friend and favorite cousin, Rueben, chose to become a Pharisee, and bitterly opposed Jesus. This book is based on the gospels and shows both sides of the opposition regarding Jesus.
Jesus said that to follow Him would divide families. Beth, as Peter's wife, chose to follow the Messiah. Her best childhood friend and favorite cousin, Rueben, chose to become a Pharisee, and bitterly opposed Jesus. This book is based on the gospels and shows both sides of the opposition regarding Jesus.
July 8, 2023
Beautifully written, great insight to one of the greatest events of all times!
It’s hard to realize sometimes that the Bible is a living historical document of people who walked with, lived in, and move in God’s perfect plan. I loved the journey this story took me, to see Jesus…my Savior as human and God With Us!
It’s hard to realize sometimes that the Bible is a living historical document of people who walked with, lived in, and move in God’s perfect plan. I loved the journey this story took me, to see Jesus…my Savior as human and God With Us!
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December 20, 2020The story of life more abundantly!
Wow,what a book! The story of Peter and the disciples of Jesus, but Beth Peter "s wife had a story of faith too. She was fearful and unbelieving, and just wanted a simple life. That simple life never happened after she met Jesus.
Wow,what a book! The story of Peter and the disciples of Jesus, but Beth Peter "s wife had a story of faith too. She was fearful and unbelieving, and just wanted a simple life. That simple life never happened after she met Jesus.
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May 15, 2021Beautifully woven
Such a beautiful woven story from the eyes of Peter's wife Beth, Katrina writes with excitement, keeping the flow of events aligned and true to biblical accounts. Great insight, glad you finished the story and looking forward to more from you.
Such a beautiful woven story from the eyes of Peter's wife Beth, Katrina writes with excitement, keeping the flow of events aligned and true to biblical accounts. Great insight, glad you finished the story and looking forward to more from you.
August 19, 2021
Review of"Dividing Sword"
I chose to give this fiction book a five star rating because it was very true to the Biblical account. The fictional characters were believable and didn't distract from the scriptures.
I chose to give this fiction book a five star rating because it was very true to the Biblical account. The fictional characters were believable and didn't distract from the scriptures.
March 19, 2022
What a Story.
Tell me the story, tell me again! Even though you know the Story, you will want to read this one, I could not put it down. I
felt I was there excellent author so well written! Tell me the story of Jesus! And she did .
Tell me the story, tell me again! Even though you know the Story, you will want to read this one, I could not put it down. I
felt I was there excellent author so well written! Tell me the story of Jesus! And she did .
November 8, 2022
salvation for all
Matthews gospels surely comes to life in this book it is an excellent read. The fiction wound through the gospel does not hinder the powerful message of Jesus’ salvation for all who will believe.
Matthews gospels surely comes to life in this book it is an excellent read. The fiction wound through the gospel does not hinder the powerful message of Jesus’ salvation for all who will believe.
December 9, 2022
An amazing story wonderfully told
Katrina gives such an insight into the blind hatred which led the religious leaders to have Jesus killed. Jesus called the Pharisees ‘empty sepulchres’ which was why they couldn’t recognise his wonderful message of grace.
By Penny Callaghan
Katrina gives such an insight into the blind hatred which led the religious leaders to have Jesus killed. Jesus called the Pharisees ‘empty sepulchres’ which was why they couldn’t recognise his wonderful message of grace.
By Penny Callaghan
December 17, 2022
Absolutely brilliant
Thank you for bringing to life the story of the gospel. Beth's character was well developed and relatable to many Christian women including myself. The imagery brought the story home
Thank you for bringing to life the story of the gospel. Beth's character was well developed and relatable to many Christian women including myself. The imagery brought the story home
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